Choosing the best interior paint for kitchen cabinets

Interior painting is a great way to modernize and revive the appearance of your home, especially when it comes to kitchen cabinets. Many Vancouver homes have outdated cabinets that home owners are looking to update, and painting can be a cost-effective and relatively easy way to do so!

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Make sure your cabinets are in good condition for painting

Unfortunately, interior paint can only go so far when it comes to damaged cabinets. Dents and dings can be easily repaired during the painting process, but more severe, structural damage like sagging shelves may require costly repairs or complete replacement. Before painting your cabinets, check for any broken rails and warped wood that may prevent you from getting the results you are after.

Some cabinets are easier to paint than others. Paint will easily adhere to wooden cabinets with a bit of light sanding, but laminate and particle board cabinets can be a bit more challenging. These projects will require more steps to complete, and may be challenging without the expertise of a professional interior painter.

Choosing the right primer is as important as choosing the right paint

Kitchens are considered high-traffic areas, so it’s best not to cut corners when it comes to choosing primer and paint. High-quality products will allow for smoother, longer lasting finishes that can withstand wear and tear.

For best results, stay away from all-in-one paint and primers. Instead, choose a proven product like Benjamin Moore Advance for your primer.

Laminate cabinets require a shellac-based primer, so it is important to consider the material of your cabinets before purchasing any products.

Interior cabinet paint – what to look for

Now that you are ready to paint, here are a few considerations to help you make your choice

Use a top-of-the-line paint like Benjamin Moore’s REGAL select. It will save you time and money in the long run.
Look for a low or no VOC paint for interior projects. VOCs are harmful chemicals that can cause breathing issues and headaches when used in poorly ventilated spaces.
Decide if you want to use a water based or oil based interior paint. Water based paints typically have a lower VOC content and dry quicker. On the other hand, oil based interior paint is slightly more durable.

Choosing a sheen

One of the most important decisions you have to make when it comes to choosing a paint for your cabinets is sheen. Some sheens are better suited for cabinets and kitchens in general than others.

Because kitchen cabinets undergo more use and cleaning than other areas of the home, you will want to choose a sheen that is durable and easy to clean. Here are the sheens our professional painters recommend:

Gloss
Semi-gloss
Satin

The higher the gloss, the easier the finished product will be to maintain. At Even Better Painting, we love satin finishes on cabinets because they offer a less glossy option while still being resistant to chipping and dulling.

Avoid eggshell and matte finishes which are difficult to scrub clean and are more susceptible to scuffing.