If you’re thinking of spray painting your kitchen cabinets, you might wonder how to achieve a professional finish. There are several things to remember to make sure your job goes smoothly. These tips will guide you through the process and keep you from making common mistakes.
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Preparation
To get a professional look at your kitchen cabinets, you need to take the time to prepare your surfaces. Preparing your cabinet before you paint it can make a difference in the final results.
When planning professional spray painting kitchen cabinets, you must remove the hardware, cabinet doors, and drawer fronts. You will also need to sand the cabinet surface. This step is important because it will give you a smoother surface for the paint to adhere to.
The next step is to prime the cabinets. There are several kinds of primers available in the market. One of the best is oil-based, as it provides better protection against moisture. Also, oil-based primer works well with different types of woods.
After you have primed the cabinet, you need to sand the surface. Light sanding can help the paint stick better. Sanding with the grain helps to remove abrasions.
Now that your surface is ready to paint, it is time to apply it. It is recommended to use a microfiber roller rather than a brush. Another advantage of a roller is that it is easier to cover large areas.
Sanding Your Cabinets
You must sand between coats if you want a smooth profile when spraying and painting kitchen cabinets. The reason is that open pores in the wood show through a finish, so you need to fill them in. To do this, you can use wood filler or spackle.
You should also clean your cabinet thoroughly. This will remove dirt, cooking grease, and built-up residue. It also allows the primer to stick to the surface.
You can also sand a cabinet if the paint is chipping or if you are trying to smooth out the wood grain. Using fine-grit sandpaper, such as 120, can help. However, if you have a stained cabinet, you may need to use a higher grit sandpaper, such as 220-grit.
Once you have completed your preparations, you can start painting your cabinets. Use the right paint for the job. For a good finish, you should use paint with a satin or semi-gloss finish. A textured finish, such as a matte finish, won’t last. Fortunately, you can find various good options at your local paint store.
When painting kitchen cabinets, you’ll need to use a quality primer compatible with the paint. It’s best to choose one that’s resin-based. Resin provides a strong seal while also providing the necessary moisture barrier. Using a water-based primer is risky because it could mix oil and water, leading to a flaking finish.
If using a water-based primer, you should only sand the edges of the cabinet face frames. Using a sanding sponge is the easiest way to do this.
Alternatively, you can use an orbital sander. These are more expensive than hand sanders but less likely to leave marks. In addition, they’re more effective at sanding corners and curved surfaces.
Labeling Your Cabinet Doors
To get a professional finish when painting kitchen cabinets, you need to label your cabinet doors, drawers, and boxes. Doing so ensures you’re getting the most out of your project, and re-assembly will be a breeze.
The most obvious way to label your cabinets is to mark each door with a number. Use a permanent marker to write the numbers, but you should also use painter’s tape to prevent the paint from smearing on the interiors of your cabinet.
Another method is to cover each cabinet door with plastic sheeting. This will help to protect the windows and the floor. If your drawers are not removable, you can use masking tape to cover them.
Cost of Spray Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Painting kitchen cabinets is an inexpensive way to revitalize the look of your kitchen. It’s also a project that can last for years.
There are different types of paint that you can use to give your kitchen a new look. Consider consulting a professional to help you choose the best option. Some popular paint colors include white, gray, charcoal black, and pure white.
The cost of painting kitchen cabinets depends on the size of your kitchen and the type of materials used. The more expensive the material, the higher the cost. Materials include plywood, MDF, metal, and wood veneer.
If you hire a professional, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 an hour for a painter. A day of labor can cost from $200 to $500.
Painters generally charge between $10 and $25 per square foot. However, ask about a discount if you book several jobs. For larger projects, you’ll receive a bigger discount.
Most paint jobs involve prepping the site, sanding, and applying the paint. You can also purchase a primer to help the paint adhere better. Your painting professionals can recommend the best primer for your situation.