Transforming Laminate Cabinets: Painting With Wood Trim Perfection

how do you paint laminate cabinets with wood trim

Painting laminate cabinets can be a great way to give your kitchen a new look without breaking the bank. It is a time-consuming process that requires careful preparation, but it can be done without the need for expensive tools or professional help. In this article, we will guide you through the steps to achieve a smooth and durable finish on your laminate cabinets, including how to properly prepare the surface, select the right type of paint, and apply it for the best results. We will also offer tips and tricks to ensure a long-lasting and professional-looking paint job.

Characteristics Values
Working Time 8-12 hours
Total Time 1-3 days
Skill Level Intermediate
Estimated Cost $100-$200
Safety Gear Gloves, protective glasses, dust mask or respirator
Prep Work Sanding, repairs, cleaning
Paint Type Oil- or latex-based
Primer Type Bonding primer
Paintbrush Type High-quality
Roller Type Mini paint roller

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Prep work: sanding, repairs, and cleaning

Painting laminate cabinets with wood trim can be an easy and affordable way to update the look of outdated cabinets. However, laminate is not a porous surface, so it can be challenging to get paint to stick to it. The key to a successful paint job is in the preparation, so it's important to follow these steps for prep work, including sanding, repairs, and cleaning, before painting laminate cabinets with wood trim.

Remove Cabinets and Hardware

First, remove the cabinet doors from their frames and take off all hardware, including hinges. This is also a good opportunity to switch out the hardware for an easy update. Choose replacements with the same hole spacing to keep things simple.

Inspect and Repair

Next, check the laminate for any damage and repair any cracked, warped, or peeling laminate. Use a waterproof adhesive to reattach peeling laminate. If there are any dings or dents, fill them in with wood filler and use a putty knife to smooth it out. Let the filler dry completely before proceeding.

Clean Cabinet Doors

Now it's time to clean the cabinet doors to remove any grease, dirt, or grime that could prevent the paint from adhering properly. You can use a product like Krud Kutter or trisodium phosphate (TSP) diluted in water. Wear gloves and wipe down the cabinets with the cleaning solution, then rinse and dry them thoroughly with a clean cloth. Use a tack cloth to ensure the doors are completely dust-free.

Sand Cabinet Doors

Lightly sand the cabinet doors to scuff the surface and create a texture that will help the paint adhere better. Use a medium-grit sanding sponge or sandpaper, being careful not to sand too much and damage the laminate finish. After sanding, use a tack cloth or vacuum to remove any dust residue.

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Remove cabinet doors and hardware

Painting laminate cabinets with wood trim is a great way to update your kitchen or laundry room without breaking the bank. It is important to prepare the surface properly to ensure the paint adheres well and you get a smooth, long-lasting finish. The first step is to remove the cabinet doors and hardware.

Start by placing the doors in a designated workspace. If you have a lot of cabinets, it may be helpful to label the doors and the inside of the cabinets so you know where they go when it's time to hang them back up. You can use tape or a fine-tip marker to label them. Removing the doors makes it easier to work on the cabinet box and gives the doors and box time to cure without the risk of shutting them and damaging the paint job.

Next, remove all the hardware from the doors and drawers, including hinges, knobs, and pulls. Place the hardware in plastic bags or containers to keep them organised and safe. If you plan to switch out your hardware for an updated look, choose replacements with the same hole spacing to keep the project simple.

After removing the hardware, examine the cabinets for any dings, dents, or holes. Use a wood filler to fill in any scrapes or holes, and allow it to dry completely. This step will create a smooth surface for painting.

Once the wood filler is dry, you can move on to sanding the cabinet surfaces. Sanding is important because it breaks down the glossy surface of the laminate, creating a rough texture that will help the paint adhere better. Use a medium-grit sanding sponge or sandpaper and be careful not to scrub too hard, as you could damage the laminate finish.

After sanding, use a clean cloth or vacuum to remove any dust residue. It is important to ensure the surfaces are clean and dust-free before moving on to the next step, which is priming the cabinets.

By following these steps for removing the cabinet doors and hardware, you will create a solid foundation for the rest of the painting process and ensure a smooth and professional finish for your updated cabinets.

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Clean and sand cabinet doors

Before painting laminate cabinets with wood trim, it is important to clean and sand the cabinet doors to ensure the paint will adhere properly and create a smooth and professional finish. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you prepare your cabinet doors for painting:

  • Remove the cabinet doors and hardware: Take off all the cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Label each door and its corresponding location with painter's tape to ensure easy reassembly. Place the hardware in a safe place.
  • Inspect and repair the cabinet doors: Look for any imperfections, such as deep scuffs, nicks, holes, gouges, or scratches. Use wood filler to fill these areas, then spread it evenly with a putty knife. Let the wood filler dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.
  • Clean the cabinet doors: Use a degreaser, such as trisodium phosphate (TSP), to clean the cabinet doors and remove any grease, grime, or dirt buildup. This step is crucial as it ensures better paint adhesion and prevents the paint from chipping or peeling over time.
  • Sand the cabinet doors: Use medium-grit sandpaper (around 100-120 grit) or a sanding block to sand the cabinet doors. If the cabinets have previously been painted, you may need to use a coarser grit (around 60-grit) to remove the old paint. Sand in the direction of the wood grain until the surface is smooth. Pay extra attention to detailed areas, such as corners, grooves, and edges. Use a tack cloth to remove any residual dust after sanding.
  • Vacuum and wipe the cabinet doors: After sanding, use a vacuum to remove any remaining dust from the cabinet doors and surfaces. Follow this with a tack cloth to ensure all dust and debris are eliminated. It is crucial to have a clean and dust-free surface before proceeding to the next step.

By following these steps, you will have properly cleaned and sanded your cabinet doors, creating an ideal surface for painting. Remember to take your time and focus on achieving a smooth and even finish.

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Prime cabinets and doors

After cleaning and sanding the cabinet doors, it's time to prime them. Choose a high-quality primer designed for laminate surfaces, such as a bonding primer. Stir the primer thoroughly before applying it with a high-quality paintbrush or a mini paint roller. Use a paintbrush to minimise stroke marks when painting cabinet edges or hard-to-reach spaces. For a smooth, brushstroke-free finish on the doors and other large surfaces, use a roller.

Once the primer has dried, lightly sand the cabinets again with fine-grit sandpaper. This will smooth the surface and improve paint adhesion. Be careful not to sand too much, as you don't want to remove all the primer. After sanding, use a tack cloth to remove any dust from the cabinets.

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Paint laminate cabinets

Painting laminate cabinets is a great way to update your kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom on a budget. It is a time-consuming project that requires careful preparation, but it can be done without the need for expensive tools or professional painters. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you achieve the best results:

Step 1: Preparation

Before starting the painting process, it is crucial to prepare the work area and the cabinets themselves. Lay a drop cloth over floors and other surfaces to protect them from paint. Use painter's tape to protect countertops, walls, backsplashes, and any other areas you want to keep paint-free. If there is any hardware on the cabinets, such as knobs or handles, remove them and place them in plastic bags. Label the hardware with painter's tape and a marker to make reinstallation easier.

Step 2: Cleaning

Laminate cabinets can harbour grease and grime, especially in the kitchen. It is important to thoroughly clean the cabinets before painting to ensure the paint adheres properly. Use a degreaser cleaner, such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) or a similar product, and wipe down the cabinets. Allow them to dry completely.

Step 3: Repairs and Sanding

Inspect the cabinets for any damage, such as dings, dents, or peeling laminate. Use a wood filler to repair any scrapes or holes, and allow it to dry. Once the repairs are dry, it is time to sand the cabinets. Use medium-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to lightly sand the surfaces. Sanding will create a rough texture, which will help the paint adhere better. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as you could damage the laminate finish.

Step 4: Priming

Choose a high-quality primer specifically designed for use on laminate surfaces. Stir the primer thoroughly before applying it to the cabinets with a paintbrush or a mini paint roller. Avoid leaving brush strokes by using a roller on flat surfaces. Once the primer is dry, lightly sand it again with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface and improve paint adhesion. Remove any dust with a tack cloth or a vacuum.

Step 5: Painting

Select a paint designed for laminate surfaces. A satin finish is recommended as it will hide minor imperfections. Stir the paint thoroughly before applying it to the cabinets. Use a high-quality paintbrush and/or a mini paint roller for the application. Be careful to avoid drips and runs, especially around corners. Allow the paint to dry, and apply a second coat if needed.

Step 6: Reinstall Hardware and Doors

Once the paint is completely dry, you can reinstall the hardware and attach the doors back onto the hinges. Leave the doors open for a few days to allow the paint to fully cure and prevent sticking. Enjoy your refreshed and updated cabinets!

Frequently asked questions

Sanding the cabinets is not necessary, but it will help the primer and paint adhere better and will result in a smoother finish. If you don't want to sand the cabinets, you can use a deglosser, which acts as a liquid sander and helps remove grease.

You can use any oil- or latex-based paint that is suitable for painting wood on laminate cabinets. It is recommended to use paint designed for laminate surfaces as it will dry quickly, be tough and chip-resistant, and clean easily. A satin finish is also recommended to hide any minor imperfections.

Primer is essential when painting laminate cabinets. If you don't use primer, the paint will likely start peeling off soon after application. It is recommended to use a bonding primer designed for laminate surfaces, such as Zinsser B-I-N primer and sealer.

Before painting, remove all hardware, including knobs, pulls, and hinges. Clean the cabinets thoroughly to remove any grease, dirt, or grime. You can use a product like TSP (trisodium phosphate) or Krud Kutter for this step. Lightly sand the cabinets to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to, but be careful not to sand too much as you could damage the laminate. Finally, fill any holes or dents with wood filler and allow it to dry before proceeding.

Once the cabinets are prepared, apply a coat of primer and let it dry. Lightly sand the primer to improve paint adhesion. Test the paint on an inconspicuous area of the cabinet to ensure it adheres properly. If there are no issues, apply the first coat of paint with a high-quality paintbrush or roller. Allow the paint to dry, then lightly sand it. Apply a second coat if needed and let it cure for several days before reinstalling the hardware and using the cabinets.

Written by
  • Lara Beck
  • Lara Beck
    Author Home Renovation Professional
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