Cabinets take more daily abuse than almost any other surface in your home; between opening and closing them, pets and children making messes on them, and many other things, they have to be built tough. But did you know that the paint on them also contributes to their lifespan? In fact, certain paints can be quite protective, while others can lead to early peeling, chipping, or unsightly fading. Here’s what actually works and which paints you should avoid, and why.
Paint Type Matters More Than Paint Color
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, color is often what most people think of first; since they’re so visible in the space, they need to feature a prominent color that matches the design scheme. However, it’s easy to get caught up in picking the perfect shade—but the type of paint and coating have a much bigger impact on how your cabinets perform long-term. That color is also subject to damage or fading if the cabinets aren’t properly cared for, or if the right paint isn’t applied from the get-go!
What Type of Paint Is Best for Cabinets?
Cabinets are considered “high-touch” surfaces, meaning they need a finish that can resist scuffing, moisture, and repeated cleaning. Not all paint can handle this sort of daily beating. Hands down, the best-performing paints for this tend to be hybrid alkyds, or enamel-based formulas. These are engineered to cure into a hard, durable shell, rather than staying soft like regular wall paint. They also tend to self-level as they dry, meaning there won’t be many visible brush strokes, and the finish will look smoother.
What Else Should I Keep in Mind?
It’s also important to remember that beyond the paint formula itself, the sheen level also plays a big role in durability and how easily the cabinets will be able to be cleaned. Satin and semi-gloss finishes are generally the top choices for cabinets because they resist moisture and are easy to wipe down. Flat or matte finishes, which may seem trendy, are actually awful for cabinets since they show fingerprints and stains more easily and can be harder to clean over time.
You’ll also want to be sure that no matter what paint you go with, it’s applied correctly and the surfaces are repaired beforehand. Even the best paint won’t perform well if it’s haphazardly applied or the job is rushed!
About Platinum Painting
Here at Platinum Painting of McKinney, we know that choosing the right paint is only half the battle—getting it to look as good as you’re imagining is the true test, and our team is here to help with this. We’ve proudly served homeowners all across DFW for over 15 years, offering a wide range of interior and exterior painting services, including cabinet painting. If you have any questions about the blog or you’re ready to schedule a FREE in-home estimate, you can call or reach out online for more information or assistance. Telephone: (469) 617-6475.