Get matched with top cabinet refacers and refinishers in Oakland, IA

Liquid sandpaper is a solvent used to soften existing layers of paint and make them porous enough that you can effectively apply a new coat of paint. You rub the liquid sandpaper on, wait for it to work, and wipe it off—no literal sanding is involved. Liquid sandpaper can save time and is helpful if parts of the cabinet are hard to reach with standard sandpaper. However, like paint stripper, liquid sandpaper creates dangerous fumes and must be used with care indoors. And unlike sanding, it can’t fix any scratches or dings in your cabinets.

You can DIY cabinet painting to save on costs, but keep in mind that you’ll need skill, time, and patience to get smooth paint coverage. Additionally, removing existing varnish or other finishes can be labor-intensive. You’ll pay between $200 and $600 on paint and supplies to take on this job, depending on the paint type and quality. 

If you have the skill and patience to tackle your cabinets, we say go for it. Otherwise, hiring a cabinet painter can save you the hassle of purchasing all of the supplies and the time (and labor) of painting.

To prepare for cabinet refinishing or refacing, it’s important to remove all items from the cabinetry in question. In addition, clear any clutter from the room, whether it's the kitchen, bathroom, or otherwise. Be sure to have additional cabinet materials, such as cabinet hardware, lights, and glass inserts, ready for your cabinet installer to use.

Finally, if you have pets, ensure they are in a safe, separate location away from your cabinet professionals, who will bring materials in and out of your home during the process.

While it’s possible to reface or refinish kitchen cabinets yourself, it requires substantial time, money, and sweat equity. In particular, cabinet refacing requires many tools and materials, costing you between $1,645 and $6,570, depending on what you already own. Besides that, this is a project that shows imperfections easily. If carpentry isn't your strong suit, hiring a cabinet professional is best to ensure high-quality results.