Painted Cabinet Bottoms: A Design Do Or Don't?

Painting the bottom of your cabinets is a matter of personal preference. While it may not be necessary to paint the underside of your cabinets, doing so can improve the overall appearance of your kitchen. If you decide to paint the bottom of your cabinets, it is important to choose the right type of paint and primer and to properly prepare the surface by sanding and cleaning it. Additionally, you may want to consider other options such as staining, adding a valance, or using contact paper or wallpaper.

What type of paint should be used?

Painting the bottom of your cabinets is a great way to refresh your kitchen without breaking the bank. The type of paint you should use will depend on the material of your cabinets. Here are some options:

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paints are known for their resilient finish and ease of cleaning. They are a good choice if you want a surface that can withstand scrubbing and cleaning. However, they have some drawbacks. Oil-based paints can take a long time to dry between coats, up to 16 hours, and may require good air circulation. Over time, surfaces covered in oil-based paint may develop a yellow tint, especially in low-light conditions. Another consideration is that oil-based paints release higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can cause eye, nose, and throat irritation, shortness of breath, dizziness, and headaches.

Latex Paint

Latex paint is a better choice for kitchen cabinets as it offers lower levels of VOCs and quicker drying times. Advances in water-based paint formulas have improved their durability, making them suitable for the demands of a kitchen environment. When painting wood cabinets with latex paint, proper surface preparation is necessary to achieve an even finish. Latex paint can also be used over existing paint, whether oil-based or latex, without adhesion issues. However, some latex paint formulas may not be durable enough for scrubbing and may require more prep work.

Alkyd Paint

Alkyd paint is a water-based paint with an enamel finish similar to oil paint but without the oil. It leaves a hard, semi-gloss finish that is durable and self-levelling, resulting in a smooth appearance. Alkyd paint is commonly used on metal or wood surfaces, including cabinets, and is known for its hard and durable finish. It is important to use proper ventilation when working with alkyd paints, and the supplies must be disposed of properly. Hybrid alkyd enamel paint is a newer category that offers low-maintenance properties, lower VOC emissions, and easier cleanup with soap and water. However, it is one of the most expensive types of paint on the market.

In summary, the best paint for your cabinet bottoms depends on the material of your cabinets and your specific needs. Latex paint is a good choice for most kitchen cabinets due to its low VOC levels and quick drying time, while oil-based paint offers a resilient and easy-to-clean finish but has higher VOCs and longer drying times. Alkyd paint provides a hard and durable finish but is more expensive and requires proper ventilation and disposal.

Should you strip or paint over cabinets?

Painting your cabinets is a great way to refresh your kitchen without spending a fortune. However, before you start, you need to decide whether to strip your cabinets or paint over them. Here are some things to consider:

The Condition of Your Cabinets

Start by examining the condition of your cabinets. If the existing paint is in good condition, you can paint over it. If not, the old paint will need to be removed. Stripping products are available that make this process easy. Simply apply them with a brush, wait for them to react with the old paint, then scrape it away. Once dry, remove any remaining paint with sandpaper.

If your cabinets are in fairly good condition and don't have multiple layers of paint, sanding may be a better option than stripping. On the other hand, if your cabinets are older and have more blemishes or marks, paint stripping will give any future finishes a clean slate.

The Type of Paint Used

The type of paint you use is also an important consideration. Latex paints are user-friendly as they dry quickly and can be cleaned up with water. However, oil-based paints are favoured by many professionals as they form a harder, more durable finish. If you use a latex paint, make sure it's a 100% acrylic formulation for greater durability and adhesion.

The Finish You Want to Achieve

If you're open to experimenting with different looks for your kitchen, you can incorporate a faux finish. For instance, you can achieve a rustic look by using a crackling glaze, available at paint stores, to give your cabinets a weathered appearance. Another option is the distressed look, which involves layering colours and spattering dark paint. Once the paint is dry, distress the finish by hitting it with a chain and lightly sanding it in areas of frequent use.

The Time and Effort Involved

Stripping paint from cabinets can be a time-consuming and labour-intensive process, especially if you have a large number of cabinets or old doors with multiple layers of paint. If you're short on time, painting over your cabinets may be a more feasible option, although it will still require a significant time investment.

In conclusion, the decision to strip or paint over your cabinets depends on various factors, including the condition of your cabinets, the type of paint you want to use, the finish you desire, and the time and effort you're willing to put in. Whichever option you choose, make sure to follow the necessary preparation and safety steps for a successful project.

What is the best way to prepare the cabinets for painting?

Painting your cabinets is a great way to update your kitchen without breaking the bank. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to prepare your cabinets for painting.

Step 1: Assess the Condition of Your Cabinets

First, determine the condition of your cabinets. If your cabinets are already painted, you can paint over them if the existing paint is in good condition. If the paint is not in good condition, it will need to be removed. Use a stripping product to easily remove the old paint. Apply it with a brush, wait for it to react with the paint, and then use a plastic scraper to peel it away. Once dry, remove any remaining paint with sandpaper.

If your cabinets were painted before 1978, the paint may be lead-based. Use a testing kit or consult a professional for help.

Step 2: Empty the Cabinets and Remove the Doors

Empty the contents of your cabinets. You will be sanding later, which can be a dusty process. Remove the doors, drawers, and hardware. Label each piece with painter's tape to indicate where they go, so you can reinstall them in the correct spots. Place the hardware in a plastic bag or cup and label it.

Step 3: Remove Dirt, Grease, and Repair Damages

Clean all surfaces with a degreaser solution such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove any grease and dirt. Repair damaged areas with wood filler. Use a putty knife to press it in and smooth it out. Let it dry according to the directions. Don't fill the hardware holes if you plan on reusing the same hardware. If you are replacing the hardware, use wood filler for holes that don't line up with the new hardware.

Step 4: Prep the Area and Sand

Cover your countertops, appliances, and other areas you want to protect. Place painter's tape on the wall along the cabinet edges. Sand everything with medium-grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere better. Use a sanding sponge or fold the sandpaper to get into detailed areas on doors, drawers, and corners of the frames. If you are painting laminate cabinets, use a special bonding primer. Some primers require light sanding of the laminate before application.

Step 5: Vacuum and Wipe the Area

Clean all surfaces with a vacuum and a tack cloth to ensure they are completely dust-free before painting.

What is the best way to paint the cabinets?

Painting your cabinets is a great way to refresh your kitchen without breaking the bank. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to paint your cabinets like a pro:

Choose the Right Paint:

• Assess the type of cabinets you have: solid wood, laminate, or metal.
• For wood cabinets, choose a high-quality paint suitable for kitchen cabinetry. Special cabinet paints are available, but any high-quality paint should work.
• For laminate cabinets, use a special bonding primer and ensure the laminate is in good condition.
• Make sure your paint is acrylic latex-based, as it is durable and easy to clean up.
• Consider the finish: a gloss finish will make your cabinets sheen, but it may show more imperfections. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are typically used for kitchens.

Prepare the Cabinets:

• Determine the condition of your cabinets. If they are already painted, you can repaint them if the existing paint is in good condition. Otherwise, you will need to remove the old paint.
• Empty the cabinets and remove the doors, drawers, and hardware. Label each piece with painter's tape to ensure you reinstall them in the correct spots.
• Clean all surfaces with a degreaser, such as trisodium phosphate (TSP), to remove any grease and dirt.
• Repair any damages. Fill dents and holes with wood filler, using a putty knife to smooth it out. Let it dry according to the directions.

Prep the Area and Sand:

• Cover your countertops, appliances, and surrounding areas with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to protect them from paint.
• Place painter's tape along the wall around the cabinet edges.
• Sand all surfaces with medium-grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere better. Use a sanding block or an orbital sander for larger areas, and fold the sandpaper to get into detailed areas.
• If using laminate paint, lightly sand the laminate after priming to ensure better adhesion.

Prime the Cabinets:

• Use a primer suitable for your cabinet material. Work from the inside out, starting at the back and moving towards the front.
• Use a brush for corners and detailed areas, and a mini roller for large, flat areas.
• Paint the cabinet frames, doors, and drawers with primer, ensuring even coverage.
• Allow the primer to dry, then lightly sand the surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper.

Paint the Cabinets:

• Use a high-quality brush for smaller areas and a foam roller for larger surfaces.
• Start with the cabinet frames, using even strokes and feathering out the edges.
• Paint the backs of the cabinet doors and drawer fronts, let them dry, and then paint the fronts.
• Apply a second coat of paint as needed for full coverage.
• Allow the paint to dry completely before reinstalling the hardware and putting everything back together.

Reassemble the Cabinets:

• Reattach the doors, drawers, and hardware. Use the labels to ensure everything goes back in the correct spots.
• If using new hardware that requires drilling new holes, use a mounting template to ensure proper alignment.

Finishing Touches:

• Consider adding shelf liners to protect the surfaces.
• Install under-cabinet lighting or a new backsplash to complete the look.

What finish should be used?

When it comes to painting the bottom of your cabinets, it's important to consider the type of finish that will not only look aesthetically pleasing but also provide protection and durability. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the right finish:

Paint Type

The type of paint you choose plays a crucial role in achieving the desired finish. Latex paints, also known as water-based or acrylic paints, are user-friendly as they dry quickly and can be easily cleaned up with water. They are a good option for achieving a smooth finish, but they may not be as durable as oil-based paints. Oil-based paints, on the other hand, form a harder and more durable finish, but they have longer drying times and can be more challenging to work with.

Sheen Level

The sheen level you choose will impact the final look and feel of your cabinets. A gloss finish will make your cabinets shine, but it may also accentuate any imperfections or mistakes. For this reason, semi-gloss or satin finishes are often preferred for kitchens as they provide a balance between shine and practicality. Flat finish paints can be difficult to clean and may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas.

Special Considerations

If you're painting over a previously painted surface, it's important to consider the existing finish. If the cabinets have a clear coat, it's best to strip the finish down to the bare wood before painting to ensure proper adhesion. Additionally, if your cabinets are made of wood with open pores, such as oak, you may need to fill the pores before painting to achieve a smooth, grain-free finish.

Application Technique

The application technique you choose will also impact the final finish. Spraying on the paint will give you the smoothest finish, but it requires practice and proper equipment. Alternatively, using high-quality brushes or rollers can also yield excellent results, especially if you're looking for a more textured or handmade look.

Topcoat Protection

Finally, consider whether you want to add a topcoat for added protection. While some people choose to follow up with a coat of polyurethane, others argue that it isn't necessary if you've used high-quality paint. Allowing your paint to fully cure will result in a hard and durable finish.

Frequently asked questions