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How to Prevent Cabinets from Chipping

May 25th, 2021

3 min read

By Bill Carlson

Lower white cabinets chipping on boxes.

Are you considering having your cabinets painted, but are concerned about them chipping? Or have they already begun to chip? Kitchen cabinets and bathroom cabinets get used so frequently, are opened and closed, and get kicked or nicked by accident. Thankfully, there are ways to keep your cabinets looking shiny and new for as long as possible.

With over 25 years of experience, we at Brush & Roll Painting have honed our expertise in providing top-notch painting services for cabinets that stand the test of time. Over the years, we have fixed thousands of cabinet projects with pre-existing damage and refinished them to resist wear and tear.

In this article, we will discuss 5 things you can do to prevent your next cabinet project from chipping. If you have recently had your cabinets painted, we have some tips for you as well. 

1. Choose a Quality Cabinet Painter

Painter glazing kitchen cabinet boxes.When considering the DIY route for painting your cabinets, it's important to acknowledge that the wear and tear on cabinets can be quite unforgiving. Opting for a professional, especially one with a solid reputation, can significantly extend the longevity of your paint job. Rushing into a DIY project or choosing a budget-friendly paint provider may result in a subpar job that shows signs of wear sooner than desired.

It's crucial to conduct thorough research on painting companies in your area, reading reviews, and exploring different options to find a specialist that aligns with your specific needs. By examining photos of past projects from various providers, you can gain insight into the quality of their workmanship and make an informed decision. Trusting a reputable professional with your cabinet painting project can ensure a durable and visually appealing finish that stands the test of time.

2. Invest in Cabinet Painting Prep Work

No paint job lasts forever regardless of the workmanship and tools used, but prepping and planning before paint jobs can help the longevity.

If you are doing the project yourself, t's important that you research and test products and tools designed specifically to give a lasting finish. Other signs of proper prep include cleaning, sanding, and smoothing the surface to prevent bumpy paint jobs.

3. Use a High-Quality Product

Painter spraying a cabinet door white.

Investing in a high-quality protective product for your cabinets is crucial in preventing accidental nicks and scratches.

By applying durable layers of protective product, you create a shield that acts as a barrier against these accidental scrapes and bumps. This extra layer of defense not only preserves the integrity of your paint job but also ensures that your cabinets maintain their fresh, flawless appearance for years to come. 

High-quality products for cabinets can be hard to come by. Many cabinet paints at the hardware store will not give you the results you need for durability. Be sure to do your research on any product you are considering.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we use Milesi, a 2K poly for woodwork. Polyurethanes were originally created and used for cars and floors. As durability became a pressing need for cabinets, many painters have discovered the longevity a poly can provide.

4. Find Durable Cabinet Hardware

Ensuring that your cabinet hardware is easily accessible is essential for smoothly opening cabinet doors and drawers without causing damage to the freshly painted wooden surface. By selecting hardware that is easy to grab and strategically placed, you can enhance the functionality of your cabinets while minimizing the risk of chipping or scratching the paint.

Don't let your hardware get loose! Properly securing your cabinet hardware is essential in maintaining the longevity of your freshly painted cabinets. Loose hardware not only poses a risk of causing chipping or scratches by rubbing against the cabinet surface but can also lead to structural damage over time.

By ensuring that all knobs, handles, and hinges are tightened securely, you can prevent unnecessary wear and tear, keeping your cabinets looking pristine for years to come. 

5. Install Door Bumpers for Cabinets 

When it comes to protecting your freshly painted cabinets, opting for felt pads or bumpers on cabinet doors is a simple task, but can save you in the long run. Unlike rubber pads that can stick to the paint and potentially lead to peeling or chipping over time, felt provides a gentler alternative. By using felt, you can prevent unnecessary damage and preserve the integrity of your cabinets for years to come.

How To Stop Your Cabinets From Chipping

In conclusion, the key to maintaining the longevity and appearance of your cabinets lies in proper preparation, quality workmanship, and hardware choices.

By choosing a reputable cabinet painter, conducting thorough research, utilizing topcoats, securing durable hardware, and incorporating door bumpers, you can protect your cabinets from chipping and wear.

With over 25 years of experience in Omaha, NE, Brush & Roll Painting has the expertise to provide top-notch painting services that stand the test of time. Whether you're looking to refresh your cabinets or prevent future damage, implementing these tips can help you achieve long-lasting results. 

It's important that you are confident during every phase of your upcoming cabinet project. Download your cabinet checklist now to get properly prepared for your project.

Get Your Cabinet Project Checklist

Bill Carlson

Bill is the owner and operator of Brush & Roll Painting. Bill Carlson is a second-generation painter. He grew up working with his father’s painting and restoration company. After graduating from Bennington High School, he served in the US Navy, traveling with the boxing team. While this was a great opportunity to see the world, it also made him realize how much he loved his little world here in Nebraska. He settled back into the painting industry, working with his brother. It wasn’t long before Bill’s entrepreneurial spirit pushed him to start his own business. Always one for a challenge, he longed to prove to himself that he could be as successful on his own as both his dad and brother were.