Semi-
Semi-gloss finishes like polyurethane are known for their easy application and high durability. A good quality semi-gloss finish should be resistant to a wide variety of things, including heat, chemicals, scratches, water, fungus, and mildew.
Pick A High-Sheen Finish
"We've always recommended egg-shell, semi-gloss, and gloss wall finishes in the kitchen, since durability is essential in a place with moisture and high traffic.
The best way how to seal painted kitchen cabinets is with a high-quality, oil-based primer. An oil-based primer will form a powerful connection between the painted cabinet and its surface, delivering top-notch protection against damage.
Semi-gloss: As one of the most popular paint finishes for kitchen cabinets, semi-gloss has a medium shine that reflects light well, making the cabinets look brighter and more polished. Semi-gloss paint is also easy to clean, making it a good choice for busy kitchens.
In addition, cabinet painters choose paints with the optimal shine. High-gloss and semi-gloss paints work best on cabinets because they have a stronger finish when compared to other sheens. They are also easier to clean and maintain than a matte finish.
While satin finishes tend to be fairly durable in high traffic areas, they're not as durable and versatile as semi-gloss against mildew and mold. Kitchen cabinets in high moisture environments can, therefore, do better with semi-gloss paints.
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.
Use 120-grit sandpaper for initial sanding, and after applying the first coat of paint, use finer grit sandpaper (220-grit) for a smoother finish. This will help reduce brush strokes and give you that professional look. After each time you sand, wipe down the cabinets to remove all sanding dust.
Polyurethane varnishes can be used on both unfinished and painted surfaces. They can be either water- or oil-based.
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).
Satin finish paint has a slightly glossy finish and is a good choice for cabinets in high-traffic areas like a kitchen or bathroom. It's more durable than eggshell, too, despite having a slightly shinier quality.
Tip: Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel in Gloss, Semi-Gloss or Satin sheen is among the best paint for kitchen cabinets because it has excellent flow and leveling characteristics, resulting in a smooth and durable finish.
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.
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.
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.
For those looking for paint rollers for a smooth finish, high-density foam rollers should be your first stop. While high-density foam rollers are great, they are not the only option. Lint-free short nap rollers are another excellent choice for achieving a smooth finish.
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.
Kitchen Style
Glossy paint provides a sleek and modern look, reflecting more light than its matte counterpart which tends to provide a smoother and softer aesthetic. Both glossy and matte kitchen cabinet finishes can be combined to create interesting visual effects.
What can I put over painted cabinets to prevent chipping? A professional interior painter will use a topcoat sealer to protect painted cabinets from chipping. A resilient, top-notch poly or acrylic coating is recommended for enduring protection against wear and tear.
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, the most popular sheens are usually satin and semi-gloss. Here's why: Satin: Satin finishes are a favorite because they provide a soft shine that adds a touch of elegance without being too flashy.
Paint Cabinets With a Brush and Roller
You want to apply a smooth, thin layer without drips. As with your primer, cut in first with a brush, then use the roller for larger flat surfaces and raised areas. Give each surface one coat. If it looks a bit uneven, that's okay — the second coat will fix it.
Since kitchens are such a busy part of a home and often need extra cleaning, a satin or semi-gloss finish is the best options. Satin and eggshell finishes are commonly believed to be the same, but in fact, satin is a bit shinier. Satin finishes are easy to clean and good at standing up to mildew, stains and dirt.