Painting builder grade laminate cabinets can help to spruce up the look of your kitchen in no time. The trick is to take your time and use the right materials.
First, start by giving the laminate cabinets a thorough cleaning. This will help the paint adhere better for a long-lasting finish. Use a degreasing cleaner, like trisodium phosphate, to remove any buildup of grease or grime that might be on the cabinets.
Next, you’ll need to apply a good-quality primer. It’s important to use a primer that’s specifically designed to work with laminate or plastic surfaces. A regular paint primer won’t do the job as well.
Let the primer dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Once the primer is dry, you’re ready to apply the paint. Choose a paint that has a semi-gloss finish. The semi-gloss will help to make the cabinets easier to clean. Oil-based paints and latex-based paints are both good choices.
Apply the paint in thin, even coats. Let the paint dry before applying an additional coat. If needed, you can sand in between coats for a smoother finish.
Finally, finish the job by adding a coat of clear polyurethane sealer. This will protect the paint and help it last longer. If you’re working with a darker color, consider using a tinted polyurethane sealant instead.
Painting builder grade laminate cabinets isn’t that difficult and will give you the look of a custom kitchen in no time. Just take your time and use the right materials for the best results.
How do I make my builder grade cabinets look better?
One of the simplest and most cost-effective options is to repaint or stain the existing cabinets. First, you need to thoroughly clean and sand down the cabinets to remo
What type of cabinets are builder grade?
Builder grade cabinets are a type of ready-made or stock cabinets that are typically constructed with lower-grade materials and finishes. These cabinets are generally least expensive, but also the least durable because of their lower quality construction.
They generally feature a particleboard or lower-grade plywood box, with an interior finish of a plastic laminate or veneer, and doors with a wooden or particleboard core, covered with a veneer or laminate.
Builder grade cabinets are designed to meet basic kitchen needs and are generally the least expensive option – which is why they are a common choice among builders and home remodelers.
What is better than builders grade?
When considering an upgrade from builders grade, it is important to understand that there is no one-size-fits-all answer. Generally, better than builders grade refers to materials and fixtures that are of higher quality, functionality, and longevity than their standard grade counterparts.
Some characteristics of higher quality materials that are used to differentiate from builders grade include durability, resistance to staining, strength, and warranty coverage.
When selecting fixtures and materials that are of a higher quality, you have access to more options in terms of style, colors, finishes, and options for customization. High quality cabinets, for example, may have more storage solutions and include details such as increased pot and pan drawers, pull out shelves, soft-closing doors and drawers, and a variety of other features that make kitchen life easier.
Plumbing fixtures and bathroom hardware may come with water efficiency ratings and extended manufacturer warranties.
For other materials such as tile, flooring, and countertops, higher quality materials are available that are more appealing and longer lasting than the standard grade. Quartz countertops, for example, are more durable, stain resistant, and come in a variety of colors and patterns.
The same is true for tile, with higher quality options that have more variations in color, pattern, and shape allowing for an increased level of customization and personalization.
In the end, what is better than builders grade depends on the goal for the space and the budget for the project. With an understanding of the differences in quality and options available, homeowners can make an informed decision on the materials and fixtures that will give them the level of quality and look they are are seeking while still falling within their budget.
What are the three grades of cabinets?
The three grades of cabinets refer to the quality of the material and construction they are made from.
Grade 1, or commercial grade, cabinets are the highest quality option and is typically used in commercial and professional settings. They are made with high-quality materials and are intended to withstand heavy use.
The doors and drawers may be frameless or feature an inset frame, allowing for greater storage capacity. These cabinets are suitable for all applications, from office and garage to kitchen and bathroom.
Grade 2, or standard grade, cabinets are the most common choice for residences. They are made from mid-level materials, designed to be durable and practical. The doors and drawers may have a frame inset or be frameless, and the range of options is usually wider than the commercial grade.
Grade 3, or builder grade, cabinets are the least expensive option, usually used in residential construction projects. They are made with low-grade materials and are usually frameless, allowing for less storage capacity.
These cabinets are suitable for short-term use, but won’t be as durable and long-lasting as their higher-grade counterparts.
What cabinets do they use on HGTV?
HGTV typically uses a variety of quality kitchen cabinets when designing and remodeling kitchens for their television shows. Commonly used lines of cabinets include Thomasville, KraftMaid, Schrock Cabinets, Merillat, Decora, Quality Cabinets and TimberBilt.
Depending on budget and design style, they may also select cabinets from other well known cabinet markers like CliqStudios, Ikea and Home Depot. In most cases, the upgrades are to be funded in some part by the show’s sponsors, so decisions are often based on that part of the equation.
With innovative designs and organizational elements like drawers and pull-out shelves, these cabinets provide a great foundation for a fashionable and functional kitchen.
What kind of paint do you use on laminate cabinets?
The best paint for use on laminate cabinets is a type of paint specifically designed for use on laminate surfaces. These paints are available in a variety of sheens and finishes, including latex, oil-based and acrylics.
When using paint specifically designed for laminate, it’s important to take the time to properly prepare the cabinets prior to painting. This may involve cleaning the cabinets and possibly sanding them down to create a smoother surface.
Additionally, it is important to use an appropriate primer prior to painting. If a roller or brush is used to apply the paint, the roller needs to have a special foam nap or the brush needs to have soft bristles to protect the laminate surface and provide the most durable finish.
Careful attention needs to be taken after painting to help ensure that all surfaces are covered. The paint should be allowed to dry according to the paint manufacturer’s instructions before adding any extra layers.
Finally, it is important to use a clear sealer to help protect the laminate cabinets from wear and tear.
Do you need to prime laminate cabinets before painting?
Yes, you should prime laminate cabinets before painting to ensure that the paint adheres properly to the surface. Laminate is a non-porous material, so without a primer the paint will just sit on top of the surface without adhering to it.
Primer helps to create an even, smooth surface that is more receptive to paint and helps the paint stick. Taking the time to properly apply a coat of primer will guarantee a better outcome when painting your laminate cabinets.
How can I update my laminate cabinets without replacing them?
Updating laminate cabinets without replacing them can be done in a few different ways. Firstly, you can give the cabinets a fresh coat of paint, either a custom color to coordinate with your current décor, or a neutral shade such as white, cream or gray.
You can also experiment with different finishes to give your cabinets a unique look. If you prefer a more subtle update, try sanding, staining or varnishing the existing cabinet doors or drawer fronts.
Another option is to replace existing hardware, such as drawer and cabinet handles, with updated options. This can give your laminate cabinets a whole new look without having to replace the cabinets themselves.
Lastly, you can get creative and try to incorporate some functional DIY solutions to add extra storage, such as rolling trays or baskets that can be fitted onto the sides of the cabinets. With a bit of thought and imagination, you can give your laminate cabinets a new look without the need to replace them.
Can you paint kitchen cabinets that are laminate?
Yes, you can paint kitchen cabinets that are laminate, but there are a few things you need to consider before getting started. First, it is important to make sure the laminate surface is intact and stable to provide a good base for the paint job.
You’ll want to thoroughly clean the surface to remove any grease or dirt build up, then sand the cabinet surface to create a smooth base for the primer and paint. Next, you’ll need to apply a specially formulated primer, meant for laminate surfaces, which will help the paint adhere properly.
After that, you can paint the cabinets with any kind of paint you’d like. When the job is done, it is essential to seal the cabinets with a clear sealer, such as a polycrylic. This will help protect the paint and make it last much longer.
How professionally paint kitchen cabinets white?
Painting kitchen cabinets white is an easy way to give your kitchen a fresh new look. To ensure a proper, professional finish, you should first clean the cabinets, then lightly sand them, and then apply an even coat of primer.
Next, you should apply the paint of your choice, preferably a glossy or semi-gloss enamel, ensuring you give time to allow each coat to dry before applying the next. Once your paint has dried, attach new hardware, and apply a polyurethane finish for extra protection.
Finally, be sure to leave enough time for the polyurethane finish to properly dry before putting your cabinets back in use.
What happens if you don’t sand cabinets before painting?
If you don’t sand cabinets before painting, the new paint may not adhere to the surface of the cabinets properly. This can lead to a patchy and uneven look, as the new paint won’t have a smooth surface to adhere to.
Additionally, if the cabinets already have a previous coat of paint, sanding helps to create a better bond between the old and new coats. Without sanding, flaws in the existing paint can show through the new layer, especially if you are using a different color paint.
All in all, sanding cabinets creates a better surface for the new paint to cling to and leads to a much more finished, professional-looking end result.
Can dark cabinets be painted white?
Yes, dark cabinets can be successfully and easily painted white. All you need to do is prepare the surface, prime the cabinets, and then apply two coats of white latex paint. However, you should keep in mind that the outcome may vary depending on the type of cabinet material and other factors like the texture.
To ensure that the paint job will look great, you should start by cleaning the cabinets thoroughly and sanding down any rough spots. Then, apply a coat of high-quality primer to seal the surface and help provide a smooth, even coat of paint.
Lastly, use a good-quality brush to apply two even coats of white latex paint, allowing time for the paint to dry between each coat. With some patience and proper preparation, you can achieve a beautiful and clean look on your cabinets.