Instantly Modernize Your Kitchen with High-Gloss Cabinets
Is your kitchen looking a bit dated and dreary? Do your cabinets seem faded and worn, making your whole kitchen appear dull and lifeless? With a simple high-gloss makeover, you can instantly revitalize the look of your kitchen and make it appear bright, fresh and modern.
Giving your existing cabinets a shiny new high-gloss finish is an easy and affordable way to update the heart of your home without the cost and mess of a full remodel. The gleaming finish will make your kitchen feel new again.
Gather Supplies for a Flawless High-Gloss Finish
Achieving a smooth, mirror-like finish is easy with the right materials. Here's what you'll need:
- Sandpaper in 220, 320 and 400 grits
- Tack rags for removing dust
- Primer or sealer
- High-gloss polyurethane, varnish or lacquer
- Foam brush and/or paint sprayer
- Drop cloths
- Painter's tape
- Nitrile gloves and respirator mask
The supplies are affordable and available at any hardware or home improvement store. Polyurethane provides a durable, flexible coating while varnish and lacquer offer a super slick glossy finish.
Prep Your Cabinets for a Flawless Finish
Proper prep is crucial for results that look professionally sprayed on. Here are the key steps:
- Remove doors, drawers and hardware. Fill any holes or defects with wood filler.
- Wash cabinet boxes and doors with TSP or other degreasing agent. Rinse thoroughly.
- Once fully dry, sand the cabinets thoroughly with 220 grit sandpaper to rough up the surface.
- Gradually work up to 320 or 400 grit for an ultra smooth surface.
- Wipe away all dust with a tack rag before priming.
- Apply a thin coat of primer/sealer and allow to fully dry.
Prepping properly cleans the surface for maximum adhesion and removes any gloss for a smooth new finish.
Apply Three Coats for a Flawless Shine
For best results, apply three thin coats of your chosen high-gloss finish, allowing ample drying time between coats. Here's how:
- Apply the first coat in thin, even strokes. Allow to dry 2-4 hours.
- Gently sand again with 400 grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust.
- Apply the second coat in opposite direction of the first. Let dry 2-4 hours.
- Sand again with 400 grit. Remove dust.
- Apply the final coat for a spectacular glossy finish. Allow to cure 72 hours.
Resist the urge to apply thick coats. Several thin coats provide a glass-like finish that looks sprayed on.
Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Shine
Once cured, keep your glossy cabinets looking like new with these tips:
- Use microfiber cloths when cleaning to avoid scratches.
- Clean gently with mild soap and water.
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scrub pads.
- Apply a fresh coat of finish every 2-3 years.
The rich gloss finish seals and protects your cabinets while reflecting light beautifully. With proper care, your kitchen can look freshly updated for years before needing a refresh.
Upgrading your kitchen with a high-gloss makeover is much more affordable than replacing cabinets. With a few supplies and some elbow grease, you can breathe new life into your kitchen instantly.
The mirror-like finish will make your kitchen gleam, creating a bright and modern look. With these simple steps, you can achieve magazine-worthy style at a fraction of the cost.