Is your kitchen feeling a bit dull and outdated? Before you consider a complete renovation, why not give your kitchen cabinets a refresh? With a little time and effort, you can breathe new life into your kitchen and create a more vibrant and inviting space. Follow this step-by-step guide to learn how to refresh your kitchen cabinets and transform the heart of your home.
Paint your cabinets
Painting your cabinets can be a great way to update their look. You can choose a new color or go for a classic white or neutral shade. Make sure to use high-quality paint and take your time to ensure a smooth and even finish. Here are the steps to take to ensure you get the best results:
Remove cabinet doors and hardware
To paint your cabinets, you will need to remove the doors and hardware. Label each door and drawer as you remove it so you know where it belongs when it’s time to reassemble. Carefully take off hinges, knobs, and handles. Lay the doors on a flat surface for easy access.
Clean the cabinets
Now that the cabinets are disassembled, you can give them a good cleaning. Use a mild cleaner and a soft cloth to remove any dirt, grease or grime that has built up over time. Rinse thoroughly with clean water and let everything dry completely.
Sand the cabinets
Lightly sand the cabinet surfaces using medium-grit sandpaper. This will help the primer adhere better. Follow up with a finer grit sandpaper for a smoother finish. Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain.
Apply primer
Use painter’s tape to protect areas you don’t want to paint. A coat of primer will help the new paint or stain adhere better and last longer. Apply a thin coat of primer and let it dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Paint the cabinets
Once the primer is dry, it’s time to paint the cabinets. Choose a paint color or wood stain that complements your kitchen decor. Select a high-quality paint made for cabinets and apply it in thin, even coats following the grain of the wood. Let each coat dry completely before applying the next one. Apply additional coats as needed for full coverage.
Replace the hardware
After the paint or stain is completely dry, you can reattach the doors and drawers and replace the hardware. For an extra touch, consider updating your cabinet hardware. New knobs, handles, or pulls can instantly modernize the look of your cabinets. Ensure that the new hardware aligns with existing holes or make adjustments accordingly.
Add new accessories
To complete the refreshed look of your cabinets, consider adding new accessories such as knobs, pulls, or handles. This is an easy and affordable way to update the look of your cabinets.
Other ways to refresh your kitchen cabinets
- Stain: If painted cabinets is not your style, choose to stain them to give them a new look. If your cabinets are light oak, darken the stain to make them a rich color. Then seal the cabinets with a clear polyurethane sealant to protect the finish. This will add durability and a glossy finish. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying times.
- Reface: Refacing your cabinets involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts, while leaving the cabinet boxes intact. This is a good option if your cabinets are in good condition, but you want a new look. You can choose from a variety of materials and styles for the new doors and drawer fronts.
- Add new hardware: Simply adding new hardware to your existing cabinets can be an easy and affordable way to update their look. You can choose from a variety of styles and finishes, such as brushed nickel or antique brass.
- Remove doors: If you have upper cabinets with doors, you can consider removing them to create an open shelving look. This can make your kitchen feel more open and airy, and can be a good option if you have a lot of decorative items to display. Decide what you want to do with the inside of the cabinets though. You may want to paint the inside to make your items stand out.
- Add glass inserts: If you have cabinet doors with solid panels, you can consider adding glass inserts. This can add visual interest and create a more open feel, while still providing some storage space. Again, determine what you wish to do with the inside of the cabinets. They may need a coat of paint to make them look fresher.
Where will you start?
Refreshing your kitchen cabinets can be a simple and cost-effective way to update your kitchen without a full renovation or replacement. In addition to making you enjoy your kitchen more, it is one renovation that adds value to your home. With just a little bit of work, you can transform the look of your cabinets and give your kitchen a fresh new look. And if you’d rather do a complete makeover, give us a call to discuss your project.