Summer often inspires homeowners to tackle home improvement projects, and the kitchen is usually at the top of the list. A fresh coat of paint on your cabinets can completely transform the space, but before you pick up the phone, it’s crucial to understand a key distinction: cabinet painters and house painters are not the same.
Hiring the wrong professional for your kitchen refresh can lead to a messy, short-lived finish that costs you more in the long run. Let’s explore why a specialist is essential for achieving a beautiful and durable result for your cabinets.
Why You Need a Cabinet Painting Specialist
Painting cabinets is a different ballgame than painting walls. It requires a unique set of skills, products, and a much more detailed process.
Different Skills & Techniques
A general house painter is an expert at covering large, flat surfaces like walls and ceilings. They have the tools and experience to work efficiently on broad areas.
A cabinet painter, on the other hand, specializes in creating smooth, factory-like finishes on detailed surfaces. They are masters of precision, using specific sprayers and techniques to ensure even coverage on doors, frames, and intricate trim without drips or brush marks.
Products That Last
The paint you use on your walls isn’t designed to handle the daily wear and tear of a kitchen. Cabinets are constantly exposed to grease, moisture, food splatters, and heavy use. A specialist in cabinet painting in Spokane will use high-performance, cabinet-specific paints, like water-based acrylic polyurethane, that cure to a hard, durable finish. These products are formulated to resist chipping, peeling, and staining, keeping your kitchen looking great for years.
A More Detailed Process
Painting a room might take a day or two, but professional cabinet painting is a far more involved process. It includes meticulously disassembling doors and hardware, thoroughly cleaning and degreasing every surface, sanding, priming, and applying multiple coats of specialized paint. Rushing these steps or using the wrong products can result in a poor finish that peels, bubbles, or looks uneven.
The Value of a Professional Cabinet Painter
Your kitchen is the heart of your home and a major factor in its resale value. The quality of your cabinet finish has a significant impact on the room’s overall appeal.
A professional cabinet painter ensures a result that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. A flawless, long-lasting finish enhances your daily life and boosts your home’s value. Conversely, a poorly executed paint job can make your entire kitchen look cheap and neglected, detracting from its appeal.
Why Does Cabinet Painting Cost More?
It’s tempting to go with a lower quote, but it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. Cabinet painting is a specialized trade that costs more for several reasons.
- Time-Intensive Process: A proper cabinet refinishing job takes time. From removing doors and drawers to repairing damage, sanding, priming, and applying finish coats, there are no shortcuts to a quality outcome.
- Specialized Products: High-end primers and durable, cabinet-grade paints are more expensive than standard interior latex paint. Professionals also use industrial-strength degreasers and cleaners to ensure the paint adheres correctly.
- Customizations: Many cabinet specialists offer customizations like glazing, antiquing, or even adding new crown molding or glass inserts to doors, which requires additional skill and materials.
Risks of Using a House Painter for Cabinets
Hiring a generalist for a specialist’s job can lead to disappointing results. House painters who aren’t experienced with cabinets may take shortcuts, such as skipping proper cleaning or using the wrong primer. This often results in visible brush strokes, drips, and paint that starts peeling within months. A quick fix might seem convenient, but you will likely find yourself paying to have the job redone correctly.
How to Find the Right Cabinet Painter
When searching for a professional, do your research. Look specifically for painters who specialize in cabinets.
- Check Portfolios & Reviews: Review their past work and read customer testimonials. Do their finished projects have the smooth, professional look you want?
- Ask the Right Questions: Inquire about their specific process, the types of products they use, and what their warranty covers. A true professional will be happy to walk you through their detailed methods.
Get the Job Done Right
Hiring a dedicated cabinet painter is an investment in your home’s beauty and longevity. While it may cost more upfront, the superior, long-lasting result saves you the aggravation and expense of a failed paint job.
At N-Hance of Spokane, we specialize in transforming cabinets with our durable, factory-like finishes. Our unique process ensures your kitchen looks stunning with minimal disruption to your home. Ready for a cabinet transformation you can trust? Schedule a free consultation with us today.