Can You Repaint Kitchen Cabinets?

Are you frustrated with the look of your kitchen or bathroom cabinets? Maybe the current paint is peeling, outdated, or the color is just not your style anymore. You're probably wondering if repainting them is an option. Many homeowners face this dilemma, wanting to refresh their space without the cost and hassle of a complete replacement.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we've helped countless Omaha homeowners transform their cabinets through repainting or staining. With our extensive experience, we understand the factors that go into making this decision and how to achieve the best results. We're here to help you decide if repainting your cabinets is the right choice for you, so you don’t make any mistakes.

In this article, we'll discuss re-painting the kitchen cabinets. We'll dive into the benefits and potential challenges, factors to consider, and help you determine if repainting is the best option for your cabinets. By the end, you'll better understand your choices and be more equipped to make a decision.

The Condition of Your Painted Cabinets

The first step in deciding whether to repaint your cabinets is to evaluate their current condition. This assessment will help you understand the feasibility and potential challenges of repainting.

1. Structural Integrity: Are your cabinets still sturdy and functional? If they're falling apart or have significant structural damage, repainting might not be the best solution.
2. Surface Condition: Check for peeling or chipping paint, dents, or deep scratches. Minor surface imperfections can be fixed, but extensive damage might require more work to repair.
3. Previous Paint Job: Consider the type and quality of the existing paint. If the old paint job was poorly done, more sanding may have to be done to make sure the new products have a smooth surface to adhere to.

Benefits of Repainting Cabinets

Repainting your cabinets can offer several benefits, making it a worthwhile consideration.

1. Cost-Effective: Repainting is significantly cheaper than replacing cabinets. You can achieve a fresh, updated look without the high cost of new cabinetry.
2. Customization: Repainting allows you to choose any color you like, giving you complete control over your kitchen or bathroom's new look.
3. Sustainability: Repainting is an eco-friendly option, as it reduces waste compared to replacing cabinets entirely.

Challenges of Repainting Cabinets

While repainting has its advantages, it's important to be aware of potential challenges.

1. Cost: If you’re looking to hire a painter, the cost can be an investment if you’re looking for durability. The average kitchen cabinet painting project can be $6,000 to $9,000. The project can be done for a $300-$500 if you decide to do it on your own. 
2. Time-Consuming: Properly repainting cabinets involves several steps, including cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting. This process can take several days to complete.
3. Labor-Intensive: Preparing the surface and applying multiple coats of paint requires effort and attention to detail. If you're not up for the task, it might be worth hiring a professional.
4. Durability Concerns: Repainted cabinets may not be as durable as new ones, especially if the prep work isn't done correctly. High-traffic areas like kitchens need a durable finish to withstand daily wear and tear.
5. Color Change Difficulty: Changing from a dark color to a lighter one can be particularly challenging. It often requires additional coats of primer and paint to achieve an even and opaque finish.

Factors to Consider Before Repainting

Here are some key factors to consider when deciding whether to repaint your cabinets:

1. Cabinet Material: Wood and wood-based materials are easier to repaint. Laminate cabinets can also be painted, but the process requires special primers and techniques.
2. Your Skill Level: Do you have experience with painting and DIY projects? If not, the process might be overwhelming, and hiring a professional could be a better option.
3. Budget: Consider your budget for the project. While repainting is cheaper than replacing, costs can add up if you’re hiring a cabinet painting company and looking for durability.
4. Desired Outcome: Think about the look and finish you want to achieve. If you're aiming for a high-end, flawless finish, professional help might be necessary.
5. Staining Limitations: If you’re considering re-staining, keep in mind that staining is not suitable for changing to a lighter color. Stains work by enhancing the natural wood grain, and going lighter is nearly impossible.

Alternatives to Repainting Kitchen Cabinets

If repainting doesn't seem like the right choice, there are other options to consider:

1. Refacing: This involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. It's more expensive than repainting but cheaper than a full replacement.
2. Replacing: If your cabinets are in poor condition or you're looking for a complete makeover of your kitchen cabinets, replacing them entirely might be the best option.

Repainting Kitchen Cabinets

Deciding whether to repaint your cabinets after they've already been painted depends on several factors, including the current condition of your cabinets, your budget, and your desired outcome. Repainting can be a cost-effective and customizable option, but it requires time, effort, and the right materials.

We hope this guide has helped you weigh the pros and cons of repainting your cabinets. If you're still unsure or prefer professional assistance, Brush & Roll Painting is here to help Omaha homeowners with their painting needs. Whether you decide to repaint yourself or seek expert help, making an informed decision will ensure your cabinets look great and last for years to come.

While tackling a cabinet repainting project, it’s important that you are confident in each decision and stage along the way, whether you do it yourself or hire a professional cabinet painter. Click the button below to download your cabinet refinishing project checklist.