Get matched with top cabinet refacers and refinishers in Wheelock, VT

When deciding between stripping or sanding kitchen cabinets, the short answer is it depends on the condition of your cabinets and your end goal for them. If the cabinets are in fairly good condition and don’t have several layers of paint on them, sanding is a good option. On the other hand, older cabinets with more blemishes or marks will benefit from paint stripping, since it will give any future finishes a clean slate.

To achieve a smooth, even finish that’s free of brush strokes, spray painting is the way to go. However, it tends to use up more paint due to overspray and can have a learning curve before you perfect your technique. This isn’t to say that a brush or roller isn’t also an excellent tool, so you should test out each technique on a piece of cardboard or spare piece of wood beforehand to see which one gives you your desired look.

First, start with any planned structural changes. That includes demolition and installing new gas lines, piping, or lighting. From there, complete any projects that require a lot of construction to install. Paint your walls while the space is mostly empty, install the cabinets before the countertops to ensure the former doesn’t get damaged, and save all cosmetic changes (like installing new light fixtures or hardware) for the very last moment.

Since there are many methods of repairing your cabinets, including refacing and refinishing, it can be tricky to know when to replace or fix your existing cabinets. Generally, it’s best to repair your existing cabinets when the cabinet boxes are in good condition. Additionally, this option is best when you’re being budget-friendly or remodeling. 

Replacing your cabinets is best when you’re changing the layout of the room or when the cabinet boxes are in rough shape. It’s also best to replace your cabinets if you need more storage space, as this will remove the existing cabinets for new ones.