If you’re preparing to paint your cabinets, you might assume that color is the most important aspect of the paint selection. While color does matter, it’s not the only factor to consider. You have various types of paint to choose from, such as oil, latex, or acrylic. Additionally, the sheen is another aspect to consider. Here’s what you should know about selecting the right paint for your kitchen cabinets.
Oil Paint
There’s an ongoing debate about which type of paint is best for cabinets: oil-based or latex-based. Oil-based paints are renowned for their ability to withstand the wear and tear of kitchen use and provide excellent surface coverage, resulting in a beautiful finish for your cabinets. However, a major drawback is that they emit fumes known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) that can be harmful to both humans and animals, even if it’s been months since the cabinets were painted. Additionally, oil-based paint takes significantly longer to dry compared to other types of paint, increasing the risk of smudging during the painting process.
Latex Paint
Latex-based paints, on the other hand, dry much faster and offer a consistent finish. Another benefit of latex paint compared to oil-based paints? It’s less expensive and comes with more choices. You can even opt for low- or no-VOC latex-based paint, so you avoid the harsh fumes, which is a big plus if you have children or pets.
The downside of latex-based paints is that they are often not as durable when compared to oil-based paint. Durability matters in a busy kitchen environment if you want your paint job to hold up over time. In addition, to get a smooth, flawless finish, latex-based paints require a lot more prep, from cleaning and sanding to priming.
Acrylic Paint
On the other hand, latex-based paints dry much faster and offer a consistent finish. They also have the advantage of being more affordable and providing a wider range of options. Opting for low- or no-VOC latex-based paint is particularly beneficial if you have children or pets, as it minimizes exposure to harsh fumes. However, it’s worth noting that latex-based paints may not be as durable as their oil-based counterparts, which is important to consider in a busy kitchen environment where you want your paint job to last. Additionally, achieving a smooth, flawless finish with latex-based paints requires more extensive preparation, including cleaning, sanding, and priming.
What About Sheen?
When selecting paint, it’s important to consider the sheen. Paints generally come in matte, gloss, satin, eggshell, or semi-gloss finishes. While matte finishes are commonly used for walls, it’s advisable to opt for gloss or semi-gloss sheens when painting kitchen cabinets. These finishes provide better durability and are more resistant to everyday wear and tear. On the other hand, matte, eggshell, and satin finishes are less durable on kitchen cabinet surfaces and are more challenging to keep clean. However, if you’re painting the interior of your cabinets, eggshell is the ideal choice. It can withstand the weight of dishes and cookware without cracking or denting.
The Easiest Way to Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets
Looking for the easiest way to paint your cabinets? Look no further than N-Hance of Delaware! We are professionals with years of experience and have developed a water-based acrylic polyurethane blend specifically for cabinets. Our proprietary painting product offers a flawless finish without the hazards of oil-based paints. It is also highly durable and perfect for your active kitchen.
With our innovative LightSpeed® Nano system, your cabinets can be cured in seconds, not days. This means you can get back to your normal routine faster. Our system also delivers a stronger and more resilient finish that is resistant to chipping, cracking, scratching, and peeling. Trust N-Hance of Delaware for beautiful and long-lasting painted cabinets. Ready to learn more about painting your kitchen cabinets? Contact N-Hance of Delaware today at 302-750-5167 for a FREE consultation and quote.