Best Brand of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets


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Choosing the right paint brand for your kitchen cabinets can make all the difference in transforming them from average to extraordinary.

When it comes to painting kitchen cabinets, you want a product that will not only look great but also stand up to everyday wear and tear. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming trying to pick the best brand of paint for your needs.

Best Brands of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

When selecting a brand of paint for kitchen cabinets, durability, coverage, and long-term maintenance should be taken into account. Behr, Benjamin Moore, Sherwin Williams, Farrow & Ball, and Ace Hardware all offer varied options for painting kitchen cupboards. Each option comes with its own set of pros and cons; however, Behr is known for its superior quality and finishes.

Primarily sold at Home Depot, Behr offers multiple types of paint for kitchen cabinets – such as Marquee®, Premium Plus Ultra®, and Ultra Spec® – that feature anti-scuff protection and marquee stain resistance technology. These unique features make it easier to maintain clean lines on the painted cabinets over time. The paint also adheres particularly well to new materials like fibreboard or MDF casing boards.

Another popular option is Benjamin Moore’s Advance Interior Paint, which offers superior coverage and durability for indoor surfaces like kitchen cabinets. It provides a high-quality finish that resists scuffs and stains, making it a great choice for high-traffic areas in the home.

The formula has alkyd resin technology that gives it enhanced adhesion qualities to ensure long-lasting results. Additionally, its low odor makes it ideal for use in well-ventilated spaces like kitchens, where other paints often overpower with their strong fumes.

Sherwin Williams’ Cashmere Interior Acrylic Latex Paint is often considered one of their most popular paint lines meant for kitchen cabinetry due to its smooth application without streaking or brush marks along with a vibrant finish once dry. It also offers very high hide features so even those darker tones will stay in place after the painting job is done.

Similarly, advanced capabilities are seen within Farrow & Ball’s Modern Eggshell range too — this brand tends to cater more heavily towards nature; traditional interior designs yet featured strong ratings amongst users regarding chip and stain resistance in addition to being washable against daily cooking splatter wear away surface stains quickly and efficiently.

Ace Hardware houses several options like Clark+Kensington® Enamel Acrylic Alkyd Paint + Primer which boasts incredible hiding power and mildew-resistant properties that make it ideal for humid climates making cleaning super easy!

This product may not be available at all stores but its lengthy stain protection guarantees compared to common shelf life requirements makes it worth exploring if availability near your residence exists. It should not take long from coating; dispensing this alkyd-based blend should certainly remove any doubts regarding any years before requiring a necessary revisit.

Another excellent option is Rust-Oleum Cabinet Transformations Kit, specifically designed for refacing kitchen or bathroom cabinets. This easy-to-use product includes an ultra-smooth finish that won’t yellow over time – instead giving you a crystal clear sheen once applied – while also offering additional protection against scratches and dust buildup due to its special coating guard technology.

Additionally, the process doesn’t require any extra sanding or primer steps so you save time along with money on this DIY project!

At the end of the day though – no matter what kind of finish or durability you seek – choosing the right type of paint without doing research beforehand puts both yourself and your cabinets at risk of unsatisfactory results and possible damage so make sure to consider factors such as price range, quality level desired outcome before selecting just any old brand!

Types of Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

Best paint brand for kitchen cabinets

When it comes to painting kitchen cabinets, choosing the right type of paint is key to achieving a great-looking, long-lasting finish.

  • Oil-based paint is typically used on more traditional cabinets and requires mineral spirits to clean up brushes and drips.
  • Latex paints offer an easier cleaning process with cold water which makes them a great option for modern kitchen cabinets.
  • Water-based paints can be relatively quick-drying, making them another popular choice for casual use.
  • Hybrid paints combine latex and oil components and offer a balance between ease of cleaning and strong hold over surfaces.
  • Enamel paints can provide exceptional coverage over metal or wooden surfaces for kitchen cabinets, but require extra priming or preparation steps.
  • Lastly, chalk paints are perfect for creating a unique look with rustic charm in your kitchen without many major preparatory steps or extra layers of protection needed.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

Choosing the right type of paint to use on kitchen cabinets is a critical decision. It can make or break the overall finish and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen cabinets, as well as protect them from damage.

Therefore, it’s important to consider all of the factors carefully when selecting paint for kitchen cabinets, including finish type, durability, smoothness, color options, price, dry time, VOC levels, and expert reviews.

When choosing a finish type for your kitchen cabinet paint it is important to consider what kind of look you want; satin paints provide an attractive matte finish while semi-gloss gives off a shinier look. Glossy paints are highly reflective and shiny paints offer more texture and muted tones. Chalky paint offers a shabby chic charm but may require additional sealing to protect it from damage.

Durability is also important when considering different types of cabinet paints. Some finishes are not as durable as others so be sure to choose one that will stand up well to wear and tear over time. Smooth finishes help resist dirt and grime build up better than rougher options so this should be taken into consideration if there is frequent use in your home’s kitchen area.

When it comes to color options there are many available that suit all styles of home decor; ranging from bright whites and pastels through to dark water-resistant blues and deep charcoals perfect for contemporary interiors. Consider the other colors within your homes color scheme when choosing the right tone(s) for your cabinets in order to create a cohesive look throughout each room.

The price of the cabinet paint itself will depend on its quality; expert reviews are invaluable in helping you make an informed decision between different brands available if you’re on a budget or looking for something with added benefits like UV protection or eco-friendly credentials.

Dry time may also vary depending on how much product has been applied so read application instructions carefully before starting any renovation works involving paint!

Finally, check VOC levels which indicate how much Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are released from painting products – generally speaking lower amounts signify better indoor air quality both during the application process itself and shortly afterward too! It’s possible to find high-quality cans that have minimal VOC emissions thereby offering you professional results without compromising on sustainability concerns or your health

Preparation for Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Preparing for painting kitchen cabinets can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right supplies and tips, anyone can paint their own cabinets, giving them a fresh new look in as little as one weekend. Start by cleaning the cabinet doors with a degreaser; this will ensure that all dirt and grease are removed before any priming or painting takes place.

After the doors have been washed, use sandpaper to rough up the surface which will create a better bond between the paint and the door. If you are keeping the same cabinet hardware, take it off before you start painting and set it aside; it will need to be cleaned separately.

Once all surfaces of the cabinets have been sanded down, wipe everything down with a tack cloth to remove any remaining debris to make sure it’s extra smooth for your first coat of paint.

Lastly, prepare your space by laying down paper or plastic if desired; you’ll also need a paint tray so that your roller doesn’t touch anything else. By following these simple steps you’ll be on your way to having beautifully painted cabinets!

Tools Needed for Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Painting kitchen cabinets is a project that can revamp the look of any kitchen and save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. However, in order for the project to turn out right, it’s essential to have the proper tools for the job. Here are some tools you need to get your kitchen cabinets looking like new:

Good brand of paint for kitchen cabinets

Brushes – Brushes are essential for a crisp, clean finish on your cabinets. Look for angled brushes which can provide better coverage in those tight places. Make sure that you use fine bristle brushes so that they won’t leave brush strokes when painting.

Roller – A roller can help apply larger coats of paint to wide sections of the cabinet quickly and evenly. Foam rollers are ideal, as they will give you a smooth finish without requiring additional preparation, such as sanding down previously painted surfaces.

Electric sanderAn electric sander will help to smooth down surfaces and get rid of any bumps or abrasions that could disrupt the evenness of the surface once you start painting. Depending on how long you have had your cabinetry installed, electric sanding may be necessary before applying paint if it has been exposed to heavy amounts of wear and tear over many years.

Primer – Primer will help create a strong bond between your cabinetry surface and the paint you choose for maximum longevity and durability for your painting project. Using primer prior to painting will also allow stains on wood 2 or metal surfaces from previous cooking condiments or marks from being in contact with hot utensils in drawers and doors or even toilets used around your cabinetry to stay hidden behind a layer of primer then paint protection for years after!

Painting Tips for Kitchen Cabinets

Painting kitchen cabinets can be an intimidating process. But, with the right equipment and techniques, it can be transformed into a stunning DIY project. To ensure the best result, it is important to note several key points before you start the job.

  1. The first one is the Time Between Coats. It could take at least 12 hours of drying between each coat of paint. Paint manufacturers will provide recommended time frames in their product recommendations, but usually, two coats of paint with drying in between will guarantee a good investment.
  2. The second point is Number of Coats that need to be applied depends on the final look that one wants to achieve and on how sheen or type of product you are using for this project. Generally, two coats are sufficient if it is a flat paint whereas if you choose to use a higher sheen level something like semi-gloss then three or more coats may provide a better finish.
  3. The third step is to Use Cloth to Remove Brush Strokes from natural bristle brushes after they have dried by wiping down your surface with lint-free cloths or rubber sponges which will help remove any brush marks you may have created while painting cabinet doors or frames.
  4. The fourth step is to Use Painter’s Tape when painting door facings as it helps create clean lines between adjacent sections both around the door panel and perimeter molding and creates an even division between them so it provides an aesthetically pleasing overall look when the finished painting process was done correctly.
  5. The fifth tip is to Use a Paint Sprayer which will give you an incredible finish with no brush strokes if properly setup positioned and used in an isolated room where all airborne dust can’t reach during the spraying process, as this would be a very crucial piece due to high volatility of particles released from compressed air line which could ruin entire project unless done correctly in safe environment indoors without any dust getting inside during paint application.

Other Paint Options for Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinet and furniture paint is ideal for kitchen cabinets and can provide a durable and attractive finish. It typically requires two to three coats of paint, with the first coat providing a primer, sealer, and base that helps the remaining coats adhere better. The best types of paint are those that are made specifically for cabinets or furniture, as they typically contain ingredients used to enhance adhesion.

Milk Paint is also an attractive option due to its wash-resistant nature and beautiful matte finish. It is easy to apply and environmentally friendly as it contains natural ingredients such as linseed oil, chalk, and casein (milk protein). Additionally, it does not require sanding or primers but still provides adequate protection for your cabinets.

Painting kitchen cabinets white gives them a classic look that has been popular in the past decade or so. White kitchens often provide an open and refreshing feel compared to darker-colored kitchens which can sometimes make the room feel small.

When selecting a white color, consider whether you would like a creamy off-white shade or classic whites. Creamy white paints give off warmer tones while classic whites produce cooler tones such as blue-green hues which can be quite striking in combination with grey flooring or tiles.

To ensure durability when painting over existing cabinets, begin by applying a base coat of either an alkyd or acrylic bonding primer which will help bond the old surface to the new paint job creating a more resilient finish.

After allowing this base coat to dry thoroughly, add one or two coats of color (depending on how strong color you’re looking for) then apply at least one additional coat of topcoat sealer which will protect against grime and make it easier to clean off dirt buildup in the long run. Following these steps should result in a high quality heavy-duty painted cabinet look for many years to come!

Comparison of Paint Brands for Kitchen Cabinets

Behr Urethane Alkyd is a durable urethane-fortified oil-based paint, formulated to provide a long-lasting finish with excellent resistance to stains, fading, and dirt. It provides deep, rich color saturation that can easily be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

This paint has a semi-gloss sheen that gives surfaces an elegant shine and highlights woodgrain texture as no other product can. With features such as quick drying time and low odor, this ideal choice for kitchen cabinet refresh projects.

Behr Marquee is also an oil-based formula offering exceptional durability with advanced stain-blocking properties. However, it also seals in moisture to give wood cabinets enhanced protection against cracking or peeling over time.

This product has a super premium hide power resulting in deeper color intensity while its ultra stain fighting ability makes it effortless to wash away everyday staining from food and other household messes. Being 100% acrylic interior paint means that it’s easy to properly maintain surfaces without harsh chemicals or cleaners – making it perfect for kitchen cabinetry makeovers.

What is the Difference between Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Enamel and Paint for Cabinets?

Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Enamel is a professional quality finish designed for extended durability and exceptional performance in highly trafficked spaces such as kitchens and bathrooms. The enamel coating creates added protection from scratches, dings, scuffs, and damage from cleaning products used regularly on cabinet surfaces.

Additionally, the formulation of this enamel will not yellow over time like some traditional paints do create more vibrancy on your cabinet surfaces while providing excellent hiding capabilities on dark colors due to its high hiding power technology. Its gloss retention characteristics make sure that your cabinets keep their just-applied look making them last longer even after daily wear and tear caused by cleaning solutions as well as heavy-use areas like handles and pull-on doors/drawers etc.,

Benjamin Moore Advance Paint has been developed specifically for kitchen cabinets offering superior adhesion and highlighting wood grain texture more effectively than traditional paints while creating a strong bond that resists chipping or flaking off after prolonged use of kitchen cabinet hardware such as knobs or hinges when opening drawers or doors repeatedly over time.

This exceptionally low VOC formula creates gentle odors during application which makes painting convenient even when there’s a lack of ventilation in an area due to its low odor technology featuring fast dry times so you’re finished painting faster than traditional paints with any color imaginable along its full spectrum of colors available. Overall these advanced technology finishes offering long lasting color retention without yellowing over time.

Cost of Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Painting kitchen cabinets can be an economical way to give your kitchen a fresh new look. The cost of doing so depends on what type and brand of paint you choose, as well as whether or not you are using leftover paint. Some affordable options for painting kitchen cabinets include latex enamel paint and acrylic latex primer, both of which are widely available at most home improvement stores.

For those looking for a more expensive solution, there are many high-end paints available, such as alkyd enamels. Alkyd enamels provide a long-lasting finish that resists scratches and fading and requires fewer coats than other types of paint.

Other options include oil-based primers and varnish that provides a glossy finish to the cabinets. These products may be more costly than latex or acrylic paints but will last longer, providing superior protection for your cabinetry.

No matter your budget, painting kitchen cabinets can be an easy and cost effective way to transform the look of your kitchen without breaking the bank. By researching various products and their prices in advance and utilizing leftover paint when possible, you can find an option within your price range that will help make your cabinets look renewed in no time.

Time Needed for Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Painting kitchen cabinets can take anywhere from a couple of hours up to 16-24 hours. The time depends on the size and complexity of the job, as well as the type of paint you choose to use. In any case, it generally takes longer than expected, so it’s best to plan for at least double what you budgeted for in terms of work time.

The first step is to clean and de-grease the cabinets. This not only removes dirt and grime but also allows the primer coat to adhere more efficiently. Once this is finished, sanding may be needed depending on the type of paint being used and any imperfections that need addressing.

Once all prep work is completed, then comes applying primer coats and paint coats with brushes, rollers, or spray cans if desired. To finish off, some light cleaning may be needed around hinge areas or handles where there may be excess particles or residue after painting.

It’s important to check all parts before starting the final touches such as coating each cabinet frame with wax or adding hardware components back into place such as drawers or doors.

This helps ensure everything looks neat and uniform once fully painted and installed in your kitchen space. Finally, an extra day or two should be allocated for drying time between each successive layer before putting them back into place in your kitchen cabinets!

Finishing Touches for Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Painting kitchen cabinets can be a great way to refresh the look of your kitchen and make it look more inviting. The finishing touches needed to properly paint kitchen cabinets will depend on the existing condition, the type of paint used, and the materials chosen. To create a professional-looking finish, there are several key steps to consider when painting kitchen cabinets.

Cabinet doors should first be sanded with an orbital sander and 120-grit paper to ensure the smoothest surface before you start painting. Any blemishes or holes can then be filled in with wood filler and lightly sanded again. Primer is then applied, which helps ensure that surfaces are in good condition before applying a finish coat of paint.

Cabinet boxes also need thorough preparation prior to painting, beginning with cleaning them down with a damp cloth or degreaser and rinsing them off thoroughly. Once dry, any blemishes should be filled using wood putty, and the surface lightly sanded. Like cabinet doors, primer should also be applied and allowed to dry for two hours before beginning to paint them.

For cabinet door fronts that have previously been painted, this initial preparation process could involve removing all grease and dirt from previous coats and lightly sanding them (unless they have been recently treated). As with other aspects of this project, apply one coat of primer followed by one or more coats of paint as desired for each cabinet surface area.

When all these elements inside this process have been completed, use either water-based or oil-based sealers to keep the new color looking fresh over time. If spraying is preferred instead of brushing it can help produce a much smoother finish too; providing you have the correct equipment available!

The final step involves replacing all hardware after painting has been completed – ensuring all hinges get reattached firmly yet gently so as not to damage any freshly painted surfaces either!

Common Mistakes When Painting Kitchen Cabinets

Preparing kitchen cabinets properly before painting them is essential in order to achieve a successful outcome. Cleaning the surface with soap and water should be done first, then applying fine-grit sandpaper should follow. Sanding the cabinets to create a finer surface provides better adhesion for primer, which in turn will create a smoother basecoat when applied on top of it.

Failing to select the correct paint finish for kitchen cabinets not only produces unsatisfactory results but can also contribute to other problems down the line such as wear and tear faster than expected.

High gloss paints may provide more durability than lower sheen options, however, these require more careful preparation work to ensure that streaks will not appear after curing. Chalk paints offer no protection against stains but do have a highly matte finish that hides imperfections effectively.

Rushing through the painting can lead to numerous mistakes ranging from having brush strokes exposed or not sealing the wood correctly due to time constraints between each coat.

Taking enough time between coats allows proper drying and prevents any bubbles or depressing marks from forming due to the uneven spreading of layers during the quick application process. Patience and following instructions thoroughly are important factors in achieving desired results from any paint project whether done professionally or not.

Benefits of Oil-based Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

Oil-based paint is a popular choice for kitchen cabinets because of its ability to provide a strong, factory-like finish while being durable and long-lasting.

This type of paint is well known for providing a professional-grade look with minimal painting effort, all while offering the user greater control over the project’s outcome. The oil-based mixture also provides an incredibly strong odor, making it a top option among DIYers and interior designers alike.

The oil-based formula brings unparalleled fade and UV resistance which makes it both versatile in terms of colors, as well as able to retain color over longer periods of time even in harsh light conditions.

It helps keep moisture from entering the wood, reducing the chance of mold and allowing you to have an attractive finish free from warping or wrinkling. Furthermore, the application is easier since there’s often no need to use a primer with this kind of paint.

Oil-based paints are tools used by those looking for a hassle-free experience that yields significant results upon completion due to their numerous benefits such as excellent coverage and adherence, lack of yellowing, water resistance, and durability. Superior grip ensures you don’t have to worry about handles sliding off or other sharp edges damaging your beautiful new kitchen cabinets.

The wide variety of colors that come with it means you can either go bold or simple according to your own design preferences without any issues when re-painting surfaces if needed at some point in the future.

Conclusion: Best Brands Of Paint For Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to choosing paint for kitchen cabinets, there are a variety of options and brands available today. Professional painters will often recommend contractor-grade paints such as those from Dulux, Glidden, or Benjamin Moore for a solid and durable finish.

Oil paint may also be used for trim painting or extra-time projects such as furniture finishing and lacquering. Many companies offer special paints specifically designed for kitchen cupboard painting and these can provide a beautiful finish with extra coverage that helps protect your cabinetry from moisture damage.

It is important to choose the correct semi-gloss finish or sheen, depending on the project. For flat surfaces on kitchen cabinet doors, a satin or chalky finish is the perfect choice while shinier finishes work better on trims such as moldings and woodworking details.

Furthermore, oil paints should often be applied by experienced painters as they require additional drying time and mixing before application. No matter what kind of paint you use, please remember to factor in the cost of an extra gallon of paint to cover any mistakes made by novice painters!

Generally speaking, using higher grades of paint which involves spending more money can result in better coverage per square foot along with a flawless finish that requires fewer coats than cheaper finishes or contractor-grade paints.

Steps should still be taken to prep the cabinets correctly before painting in order to ensure that no moisture seeps in and warps any white cabinets (or colored ones) during the process.

In conclusion, consider hiring professional painters who understand the basic rules around prepping and applying fresh coats of either water-based or oil-based finishes for the best results with your cabinet project before considering painting yourself.

Preparations such as sanding down dirt/dust particles will make all this difference giving off a much fresh coat look when finished.

With that being said some may opt into using quality semi-gloss grade paints but understanding sacrifices in coverage area have to be understood knowing how much product you will need accordingly through square feet measurement of your respective cabinets prior to arriving at any decision & brand selection given relevant factors involved at hand regarding jobs requirements & individual specific demands applicable!