When you see newly painted cabinets, it’s easy to tell whether the job was performed by a professional cabinet painter or a hard-working, yet inexperienced DIY-er. So, how do cabinet painters deliver that flawless, smooth finish? There are many factors that go into the final appearance and a beautiful end result. Here’s what makes the difference.
Cabinet Painters Follow a Careful Process
Painting your kitchen cabinets is not a job that can be completed in a day or two. It requires a lot of work and set up before you can even get started.
You’ll need to get all the proper supplies first since you don’t want to have to stop and run out to the store in the midst of painting. You also need to follow all the right steps, from removing doors and drawer fronts and labeling them to proper cleaning, sanding, priming, painting, and more.
It’s a lot to know and why so many homeowners opt for a professional cabinet painter. When you do the same, you can put all the work into their hands and simply enjoy the smooth final results.
Cabinet Painters Prep the Surface Properly
If your cabinets are greasy and dirty, the primer and paint won’t adhere properly to the surface. Experienced cabinet painters know this, which is why a reputable one will take great care to prep the surface.
This includes cleaning it with a formula designed to eliminate grease, oil, dirt, dust, and other contaminants on the surface. They can also repair any scratches or imperfections, so once the paint is applied and dried, the surface is uniform.
Cabinet Painters Use the Right Painting Products
Did you know that if you use the wrong paint, your cabinet color can yellow over time? Or that it won’t stand up to the heavy wear and tear in a kitchen environment?
If you use regular latex paint to tackle cabinet painting, for instance, you’re not going to be happy with the outcome. Latex paint is made for walls, not cabinets that are constantly opened and closed, as well as exposed to liquids, grease, and a range of other messes.
Instead, skilled cabinet painters know that the best products are actually designed for cabinets. Products are specifically manufactured to hold up to the high level of use cabinets must endure.
Professionals also use primers that are made for cabinets, as well, which leads to better adhesion between the paint and primer. This all translates into a smoother, more durable finish that will stand the test of time.
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.
Cabinet Painters Have Access to the Best Tools
Drip marks or brush strokes are an immediate red flag that an experienced cabinet painter did not do the job. Instead, a professional will use tools and equipment that ensure a durable finish. This includes a paint sprayer to get that super-smooth finish. This means no brush strokes, roller marks, and drips.
However, using a sprayer requires proper prep – namely removing your cabinet drawers and door fronts and taking the job outside into a garage or another similar area. Inside, it also requires draping and taping off the counters, floors, backsplash, appliances, and other items to spray the cabinet boxes. This ensures paint doesn’t get onto these surfaces.
Another factor to consider if you are thinking of using a sprayer on your own is if you know how to use one. If you’ve never used a paint sprayer before, don’t let your kitchen cabinets be the first time. Cabinet painters have loads of experience, from which size tips and nozzles to use for each part of the job to whether to thin out the paint before applying it.
Cabinet Painters Know Which Mistakes to Avoid
Cabinet painters know how to handle the process and the common mistakes to avoid. For instance, they know one or two coats won’t cut it and sometimes you need three or four. They also know that touch-up work should only be done once the paint is completely dry.
Another secret they know? If you’re going from dark cabinets to light ones, tinting the primer can go a long way in getting a great end result and a beautiful finish.
Painting your kitchen cabinets is one of the fastest and most affordable ways to upgrade them. However, rather than attempting the work on your own, hire a professional cabinet painter. When you do, you’ll get results you love, not ones you have to live with. Hiring a professional cabinet painter is worth the investment.
Not only will a cabinet painter be able to help you achieve the beautiful finish you want, but the right color, too. They can guide you through the paint selection process and provide recommendations that bring your vision to life.
Ready to explore the many options for kitchen cabinet colors? Connect with N-Hance® and let us help! Call (855) 642-6230 to set up a FREE consultation.