Want a New Kitchen? Learn How to Easily Paint Laminate Cabinets

Have you noticed your laminate kitchen cabinets looking a bit dated and worn? While wood cabinets can easily be refinished, options for sprucing up laminate cabinets are more limited. Replacing them altogether can be frustratingly expensive. Fortunately, there's a simple, budget-friendly solution - painting your laminate cabinets can give them a fresh, updated look for a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.

Painting laminate kitchen cabinets allows you to transform the entire look of your kitchen by changing the color and style. It also provides a deep, flawless finish that makes your existing cabinets look bright and renewed. Best of all, painting laminate cabinets can typically be tackled as a DIY project over a weekend. With some time and effort, you can give your kitchen a makeover without going broke.

Preparing Laminate Cabinets for Painting

While the painting itself is straightforward, properly preparing your laminate cabinets will ensure the paint adheres and looks its best. Here are the key steps to prep your cabinets for a fresh coat of paint:

Cleaning and Sanding

First, remove all doors, drawers, and hardware so you can work on painting the boxes and doors separately. Give all surfaces a thorough cleaning using a degreasing agent like TSP. This removes any existing grease and dirt so the paint will stick.

Next, use 150-220 grit sandpaper to lightly scuff up the glossy laminate surfaces. This helps the paint adhere properly. Be sure to sand both the outer and inner surfaces, but take care not to aggressively sand through the laminate.

Priming

Priming before painting is highly recommended as it allows the paint to grip the slick laminate better. An oil-based or shellac-based primer designed for use on cabinets provides superior adhesion. Apply a thin, even coat of primer and allow it to fully dry per the manufacturer’s instructions before painting.

Painting Techniques and Tips

With your cabinets prepped and primed, it’s time to choose a paint and start brushing! Here are some key tips to ensure your painted cabinets come out looking flawless:

Choosing Paint

Look for cabinet-grade enamel paints, which provide a hard, durable, and scrubbable finish that will stand up well to daily wear and tear. Both oil and water-based enamel paints work well on laminate. Consider the sheen - semi-gloss is one of the most popular options for cabinets.

Brushes vs. Rollers vs. Sprayers

Use small angled brushes to “cut in” edges and details. Mini foam rollers make quick work of larger flat areas. Paint sprayers allow the fastest application but require tenting off your workspace. Whichever applicator you use, choose high-quality brushes and rollers for the smoothest finish.

Applying Paint

The key is using thin, even coats of paint and allowing proper dry time between coats as instructed on the label. Lightly sanding between coats with 220 grit paper ensures subsequent coats adhere smoothly. For full coverage over laminate, 2-3 coats of paint are typically needed. Maintain a “wet edge” and avoid going back over areas as they begin to dry to prevent drips and brush marks.

Avoiding Drips and Brush Marks

Quality applicator tools and proper technique prevents paint imperfections. Roll or brush on final coat using light, even strokes. Work methodically section by section to maintain control and a consistent finish.

Protecting Your Painted Cabinets

Adding a protective clear topcoat over your painted cabinets helps keep them looking like new. Polyurethane or lacquer clear coats formulated for use on cabinets provide a durable yet subtle barrier against potential scuffs, scratches, and grease splatters from daily kitchen use.

As with painting, apply 2-3 thin coats of the clear coat, allowing proper drying time between coats. Lightly sanding between coats with 220 or 320 grit paper results in a smooth, glass-like finish.

Maintaining Your Painted Cabinets

Caring for your freshly painted laminate cabinets will keep them looking pristine. Clean using a soft cloth with mild soap and water, taking care not to scour. Immediately wipe up any spills or greasy fingerprints. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scrubbing pads which could mar the finish over time.

Periodically inspect cabinets for any worn or damaged areas and promptly touch up paint as needed. Proper care will help your painted kitchen cabinets retain their renewed look for years before needing a refresh.

With some effort and TLC, you can have a kitchen that looks like you had brand new cabinets installed for a fraction of the price. Painting your outdated laminate cabinets and adding updated hardware can give your entire kitchen a transformation you'll enjoy showing off.

Painting your cabinets also often spurs additional renovations like a new backsplash, flooring, or countertops. Whatever updates you make, embrace the possibilities painting cabinets unlocks for making your tired kitchen the envy of friends and family once again!