An oil-based primer will form a powerful connection between the painted cabinet and its surface, delivering top-notch protection against damage. Additionally, an oil-based primer can be used as a base coat before applying any top coats or finishes for extra durability.
While quality paint provides a protective shield for your cabinets, it doesn't hurt to go the extra mile and apply an additional layer of protection. You can do so by sealing your painted cabinets with a polyurethane or epoxy sealant.
Whether you have painted cabinets or you want to highlight the natural beauty of the material, a clear coat is a great choice to complete the project. Clear coat helps protect your cabinet doors and drawer fronts whether they are painted or stained.
Prime the Surfaces Well
Priming is a very important aspect in painting that guarantees the durability of painted surfaces. Avoid buying all in one primer and paint as this will produce unsatisfactory work. Use oil primer and paint as they give the most excellent and long-lasting impact on the kitchen cabinets.
With proper care of professionally painted kitchen cabinets, you can expect your newly painted cabinets to last 8-10 years! While new cabinets will last you much longer, they will also cost thousands more, which can be an unnecessary expense in some cases.
While it's possible to paint over old paint on cabinets, there are better options than this one. When painting wood cabinets that are already painted, the best action is to strip the finish down to the bare wood before painting to eliminate potential adhesion problems between the old finish and the new paint.
Avoid putting everything back together before the paint has completely cured. Some painters like to follow up with a coat of polyurethane for added protection. Others say it isn't necessary. Allowing high-quality paint to fully cure will provide a hard, durable finish.
Sealing with a Protective Top Coat
A clear (water or oil-based) polyurethane or varnish are both great options for sealing your painted cabinets. Polyurethane is more durable than varnish but takes longer to dry so be sure to allow ample drying time before using the cabinet again.
You can also choose between varnish or polyurethane for kitchen cabinet protection. Polyurethane is a plastic-like topcoat that applies clear and offers ultimate durability against dirt and damage. Varnish is similar but adds a glossier film that gives it additional protection against high-moisture areas.
When paint remains tacky to the touch and refuses to dry, the issue often lies with quality of the paint. But the problem may also be linked to your painting environment (in terms of humidity and temperature) or application issues like failing to prepare the surface properly or not letting the paint dry between coats.
Whether you are working with natural wood, or have a painted surface where you have worked in one direction with a brush or roller, it is best to apply the polyurethane in the same direction as the grain using either a fine-bristled brush, foam brush, or a rag, suggests Tony Adams, home improvement expert.
You certainly don't want to skimp on the number of coatings you apply to your cabinets, but you also don't want to go overboard. Slapping on too many coats of primer or paint during cabinet refinishing can hinder adherence, interfere with proper drying, and result in strange lines and patterns on the finished surface.
The answer is yes! Using polyurethane on paint can make painted surfaces last longer. It also gives a smooth finish and protects against damage.
MAGNOLIA HOME BY JOANNA GAINES® TRIM, DOOR + CABINETRY INTERIOR SEMI-GLOSS PAINT 4.5 out of 5 stars, average rating value.
Complete the Job by Sealing Your Cabinets
After all, even the highest-quality paints will fade and deteriorate over time. To prolong the lifespan of your cabinet paint job, then, finish the job by sealing your cabinets with a transparent top-coat.
Using a cabinet-specific sealer or top coat is key for preventing chips, scratches, and peeling. It also helps protect against moisture and grease. Applying the paint properly in multiple thin coats with high-quality brushes or a sprayer helps you achieve a smooth, even finish.
One of the most common causes of peeling, bubbling, or cracking paint is that the surface was not properly prepared by cleaning, sanding and removing grease and dust before painting.
How do you protect newly painted cabinets? Use gentle cleaning methods and avoid harsh chemicals. Wipe spills quickly to prevent staining. Apply a clear protective topcoat for extra durability.
Wood, wood-laminate and metal cabinets usually can be repainted without difficulty. Plastic laminate cabinets might not accept a topcoat of paint — those that can be refinished often require special paints and techniques, and results can vary.
We usually use professional-grade lacquer because it has a lovely, silky-smooth feel to it, and is what cabinet manufacturers use. We think it's the best paint for cabinets, hands-down (although there are some great pro-level water-based options as well).
Liquid sandpaper, a.k.a. deglosser, is a chemical that can be used to rough up existing paint on walls and other surfaces by removing the gloss, making it possible to paint over what's left on the wall after use. This is good for hard to reach places or an object that you may feel would be awkward to sand.
Dish Soap. Grease-cutting dish soaps, like Dawn, are the gentlest choice for degreasing kitchen cabinets. If extra cleaning power is needed, use a non-scratch abrasive sponge to help safely scour away sticky grease film.