The Best Lacquer for Every Cabinet Material

Whether you're renovating your kitchen or refreshing tired cabinets, lacquering can provide a durable and stylish finish. But with so many options on the market, how do you ensure you choose the ideal lacquer for your particular cabinet materials? We outline everything you need to know about picking the perfect lacquer to suit particleboard, MDF, plywood or solid wood.

Lacquer forms a hard, protective coating that resists scratches, stains, moisture and wear and tear. Modern options dry quickly, with minimal odor and deliver a smooth, glass-like finish. Lacquering transforms the look of cabinets while protecting them for years to come.

Lacquer Types

The two main options are paint lacquer and solid lacquer. Let's compare the key differences.

Paint Lacquer

Offering excellent value, paint lacquer consists of lacquer thinned with solvents. It penetrates deeper into porous surfaces like MDF, plywood and particleboard. We recommend paint lacquer for:

• MDF cabinets - gives great adhesive properties.
• Plywood cabinets - seals the wood grain nicely.
• Particleboard cabinets - adheres well and prevents swelling.

Pros include affordability and a wider range of sheens from matte to high-gloss. Cons are increased odor and a less durable finish requiring more frequent recoating.

Solid Lacquer

Containing a higher ratio of solids to solvents, solid lacquer cures to a thicker, more durable coating. We recommend solid lacquer for:

• Maple cabinets - enhances the smooth, tight wood grain.
• Oak cabinets - brings out beautiful color variations.
• Other solid woods - provides maximum protection.

Pros are extreme durability, scratch resistance and a flawless finish. Cons are higher cost and limited sheen options.

Choosing By Cabinet Material

Particleboard Cabinets

Affordable particleboard comprises wood fragments bound with resin. Prone to swelling when wet, thorough sealing is a must. We recommend:

• Paint lacquer - seals effectively against moisture.
• Sand well and apply wood filler to imperfections.
• Prime first for best adhesion.
• Thin coats ensure absorption into the wood.

MDF Cabinets

Dense MDF has excellent stability. But the fine fibers readily soak up paints and stains. For best results, we suggest:

• Paint lacquer - bonds well with the fibers.
• Fill any cracks or gouges thoroughly.
• Lightly sand then apply an MDF-specific primer.
• Brush on multiple thin coats for a smooth finish.

Plywood Cabinets

With its layered construction, plywood remains dimensionally stable in moisture. To accentuate the attractive wood grain, we recommend:

• Paint lacquer - seals beautifully while allowing the grain to show through.
• Sand lightly with fine grit sandpaper.
• A wood grain filler enhances the finish.
• Thin, even brush strokes prevent drips.

Solid Wood Cabinets

For protection of coveted solid woods like oak, maple or cherry, we suggest:

• Solid lacquer - provides superior durability.
• Fill knots and sand smooth for an even finish.
• Stain if desired prior to lacquering.
• Apply multiple coats, sanding lightly between each.

Key Lacquer Considerations

Beyond the type of wood, keep these factors in mind when selecting your lacquer:

• Durability - Check ratings for scratch, moisture and UV resistance.
• Ease of application - Consider spray, brush or roll-on options.
• Drying time - Faster drying provides benefits like multiple coats in a day.
• Color options - Some offer wider color selection than others.
• Gloss level - Low to high sheens available to suit your style.
• Thickness - More coats or thicker lacquer improves durability.
• Odor - Low VOC lacquers minimize unpleasant smell.
• Surface prep - Proper sanding and cleaning enhances adhesion.
• Price - Balances quality with project budget.
• Brand reputation - Trusted names provide predictable results.

Applying Lacquer

While each product differs slightly, here are general application guidelines:

• Clean and sand cabinets thoroughly.
• Fill any imperfections and prime if advised.
• Stir lacquer well and strain if needed.
• Brush on 1-2 thin coats allowing proper drying time between each.
• Add additional coats until the desired finish is achieved.
• Let cure fully then buff gently with extra fine steel wool.
• Clean equipment with lacquer thinner.

Caring for Lacquered Cabinets

Lacquer delivers a durable, long-lasting finish. But proper care is still essential. We recommend:

• Use mild soap and water for regular cleaning.
• Immediately wipe up any spills to prevent moisture damage.
• Avoid abrasive cleaners, steel wool or scouring pads.
• Re-lacquer cabinets every 8-10 years or when wear shows.
• Spot re-coat any damaged areas as needed.

The right lacquer transforms and protects your prized cabinets. By tailoring product selection to your cabinet materials, assessing key factors like application and durability, and properly prepping and lacquering, you can achieve flawless results. Keep cabinets looking like new with regular gentle cleaning and touch-up as needed. Follow these tips and you'll have cabinets to admire for years to come.