If you’re trying to keep up with the latest trends in kitchen cabinets, you may notice that every few years, the most popular colors change. When this happens, it could be tempting to paint yours to keep up with what’s ‘in.’ If you have laminate cabinets, though, this can be a challenge.
Today, we’ll talk about painting laminate cabinets and whether or not it’s doable–or even worth it to try. We’ll also show you how to do it, even if you have tall cabinets!
Should I Paint My Laminate Cabinets?
When you’re doing a complete kitchen makeover, you may be replacing things and deciding between inset cabinets versus overlay. If you go with the inset style, you won’t need to paint anything–simply choose the color cabinets you want! However, this style can be expensive, and if you’re on a budget, it might not be worthwhile. In that case, painting them is another option.
How to Paint Laminate Cabinets
Painting laminate cabinets isn’t easy, but with the right method, it’s a great alternative to buying a brand new set. Here’s how it’s done:
Prepare Your Cabinets
Take your cabinets off the frame and remove any hardware that’s in them. If you have a tall cabinet, have someone spot you for safety. Check to make sure there’s no warping or other damage to the laminate, because you don’t want to paint over that. You’ll also want to clean the doors, sand them, and wipe away any remaining dust.
Prime Your Cabinets
In order for paint to stick to laminate, you’ll need to prime your cabinets. Don’t skimp by getting a low-quality primer; you want the good stuff to ensure a perfect finish! Use a brush that you know won’t leave streaks on your cabinets and use a roller for the doors and any large areas.
Sand the Cabinets
Let your primer dry. Then, use a fine-grit sander to sand your cabinets again, being slow and gentle so as not to take any of the primer off. Clean off the dust when you’re done.
Paint Your Cabinets
Now, it’s time to paint the cabinets. Satin finishes are best because they can hide some imperfections. Make sure you’re using a paint that can handle mild soap and is chip-resistant.
What Type of Paint Should I Use on Laminate Cabinets?
Not every paint works well on laminate surfaces. For example, latex paint may peel easily and take weeks to cure. If you’re lucky, you may be able to find a product made specifically for laminate cabinets. Ask your local hardware store employee if they carry any.
Otherwise, try an alkyd paint, which is easy to clean. The best kind comes in a spray bottle, which can take some getting used to. Try it on a piece of scrap laminate before painting your cabinets.
Next Steps
Does all of this sound like too much work for you? We understand–sometimes, it’s easier to just replace your cabinets when it’s time for an upgrade. 27EStore carries high-quality kitchen cabinets in a variety of colors, as well as all of your other home improvement needs. Shop our selection today to begin your kitchen makeover!
