Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets

Biggd · 12-13-2023, 05:48 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

About 10 years ago I painted over oak cabinets with very little preparation.

I used color tinted bonding primer and then painted the second coat with the actual color. They have held up very well and with new hinges and handles look fine.

If you use bonding primer be sure to wear gloves. It is a lot harder to get off of your hands than regular latex paint.

I was told by my painter that he hates doing oak because the grain still shows through? Can you see the grain in yours?

TiltonBB · 12-14-2023, 07:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Biggd

I was told by my painter that he hates doing oak because the grain still shows through? Can you see the grain in yours?

No, the grain does not stand out. They are not perfectly smooth but to me, they look fine. I am not at that house now or I would post a picture. If I had to do it again I would do it the same way.

When I decided to do it the cabinets were (and still are) in great shape. The layout is such that there was no good way to change it if I bought new cabinets so it didn't seem worth it to spend the money on new. After painting I had new granite counter tops installed.

Biggd · 12-14-2023, 08:37 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

No, the grain does not stand out. They are not perfectly smooth but to me, they look fine. I am not at that house now or I would post a picture. If I had to do it again I would do it the same way.

When I decided to do it the cabinets were (and still are) in great shape. The layout is such that there was no good way to change it if I bought new cabinets so it didn't seem worth it to spend the money on new. After painting I had new granite counter tops installed.

I did the same in my home in mass about 10 years ago but with little grandkids running around they have a fair share of scratches and chips now. But no regrets, it was an inexpensive remodel compared to completely new cabinets.
I didn't do them myself, I had a buddy of mine do them. At that time, he only charged me $1200.

TiltonBB · 12-14-2023, 08:57 AM

I keep a can of that paint, and the other colors in the house, for touch up. Every couple of years I use a foam throw away brush and hit anything in the house that needs it. Looks good to me!

WinnisquamZ · 12-14-2023, 09:24 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TiltonBB

I keep a can of that paint, and the other colors in the house, for touch up. Every couple of years I use a foam throw away brush and hit anything in the house that needs it. Looks good to me!

That is all that matters. Setting expectations is one key to a successful project completion

Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

Biggd · 12-14-2023, 10:20 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by WinnisquamZ

That is all that matters. Setting expectations is one key to a successful project completion

Sent from my iPhone using Winnipesaukee Forum mobile app

If you've ever watched Cabin Masters there's an episode where Chase is straightening out a floorboard and there is still a space between the boards. He says "it's not perfect, but it's Chase perfect". When you're a DIYer you live by that rule.

camp guy · 12-15-2023, 04:37 PM

I thought that is why area rugs were invented.

12-15-2023, 04:37 PM	#7
camp guy Senior Member Join Date: Apr 2004 Location: formerly Winter Harbor, still Wolfeboro Posts: 1,205 Thanks: 310 Thanked 535 Times in 299 Posts	Cabinets I thought that is why area rugs were invented.

12-14-2023, 08:57 AM	#4
TiltonBB Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2005 Location: Gilford, NH and Florida Posts: 3,067 Thanks: 726 Thanked 2,236 Times in 956 Posts	I keep a can of that paint, and the other colors in the house, for touch up. Every couple of years I use a foam throw away brush and hit anything in the house that needs it. Looks good to me!