Debunking Common Misconceptions about Refinishing and Painting Kitchen Cabinets
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As the holiday season draws near, numerous people are contemplating methods to enhance their homes in preparation for visits from loved ones. Yet, not all can afford new furnishings or a complete home renovation. Not only can these renovations be pricey, but with the additional financial burdens of gift-giving and travel, they may seem impractical.
Fortunately, there are different techniques available to renovate your house and make a good impression on your visitors. One easy way to give your kitchen a whole new look is by upgrading your kitchen cabinets. Since cabinets occupy a considerable portion of your kitchen walls, a simple paint job or fixing any flaws can bring about a significant change. It is worth noting that, contrary to popular belief, refinishing kitchen cabinets is a feasible choice for homeowners.
In this article, we will explore the common misconceptions about cabinet refinishing and reveal the truth behind them.
Refinishing kitchen cabinets
Misconception #1: Projects are Expensive and Time-Consuming
Contrary to popular belief, refinishing kitchen cabinets is a more budget-friendly option compared to a complete renovation. The timeline for the project may differ depending on the time of year and the availability of contractors, but it usually only takes 2-3 weeks to give your cabinets a fresh new look. This method typically costs one-third of the price of replacing cabinets entirely and can be finished much faster.
Myth #2: Lack of Effect on Property Value
One’s expectation when upgrading their home is that it will ultimately contribute to its value when it is time to sell.
While options such as switching from carpet to hardwood flooring or renovating a basement can be effective in increasing value, they may not be feasible for everyone during this time of year. As an alternative, refinishing kitchen cabinets can also have a positive impact on the overall value of a home. Studies have shown that a complete kitchen renovation can result in a 70% return on investment when the selected colors and styles are neutral and appealing to potential buyers. Therefore, choosing to refinish kitchen cabinets is a strategic approach to enhancing the worth of one’s home.
Misconception #3: Sanding is Not Necessary
To obtain a polished and uniform appearance for your cabinets, it is imperative to undertake cleaning, repairing, and sanding. The process of sanding is vital as it prepares a dry and smooth surface for the paint to effectively adhere to. Neglecting to sand your cabinets before painting may cause the paint to peel off or appear uneven, resulting in dissatisfaction.
Debunking Myth #4: Priming Is Not a Waste of Time
Just like when painting walls, priming is an essential step when painting kitchen cabinets. Its purpose is to cover up the original wood color and stop it from bleeding through the paint. Failing to prime can lead to the paint showing a yellowish tint, making the cabinets look older. If you are not capable of completing this task, some professionals can handle removing the cabinet doors and drawers, sanding, priming, and painting them to give them a fresh look before reinstalling them in your kitchen.
Misconception #5: Inability to Restore Furniture with Damage
If your kitchen cabinets have been damaged, you may assume that the only option is to replace all of them to achieve a consistent look. However, this can be a costly and time-consuming task, and it may not be necessary. Instead of completely renovating your kitchen, you can opt to restore and refinish the damaged cabinets.
Misconception #6: Time-Saving Method – Painting Around the Hardware
While it may appear to be a time-saving solution, painting around hardware can lead to visible wear off of paint when repainting cabinets. To avoid this problem, it is important to remove the hardware before painting.
Debunking Myth #7: Paint Odor Persists for Days
As the main hub of the house, the kitchen is likely where you spend the majority of your time. It can provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for you, your family, and your friends to come together and enjoy a meal. If you have worries about the newly renovated cabinets releasing an unpleasant smell in your household, you can be reassured.
At New Generation, our group of specialists can provide your house with a refreshed look and layout, eliminating any unpleasant scents that could potentially cause discomfort. Our approach involves utilizing eco-friendly and low-VOC lacquer and solvents, ensuring that no lasting paint odors or fumes are left behind. As a result, you can readily relish in your newly renovated kitchen without any delay.