Get matched with top cabinet refacers and refinishers in Clarksdale, MS

You can paint over wood, wood-laminate, and metal cabinets, but you need to prepare the surface first. Plastic laminate cabinets and thin veneers may accept a layer of paint depending on their condition, but they require special techniques and paints. If your cabinets sag or have significant damage, it may be a better investment to replace your cabinets than paint over them.

Whether it’s better to stain or paint old cabinets depends on your situation, as each option has pros and cons. Paint offers a smooth, modern look, while stain highlights the natural wood grain for a charming, rustic look. Painting cabinets may cost about 15% more than staining cabinets. While paint tends to be more durable against damage because of its thick coating, stained cabinets hide inevitable dings and scratches better than paint.

Removing the original paint or stain before refinishing is a good idea, as it ensures the new finish bonds strongly to the wood. If you skip the stripping or sanding step, the new finish may peel or flake away from the railing easily. Using a wood stripper will completely remove the old stain or paint while sanding will help to prime the surface.

A kitchen remodel can be a major undertaking, depending on how much you change. If you’re changing the kitchen layout, you might be tempted to scrap everything and start fresh, but there are a few different ways to save money throughout the process. 

• Keep your existing cabinets and reface or repaint them 

• Consider choosing budget appliances and fixtures 

• DIY when possible, such as painting walls yourself

• Choose prefabricated cabinets instead of custom cabinetry

• Choose affordable flooring options where possible