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Refreshing Your Kitchen with a New Cabinet Color — 5 Reasons Why DIY Cabinet Painting is a Bad Idea

You’re ready to paint your kitchen and bathroom cabinets. One of the first things you must decide is whether to make this a DIY painting project or hire an experienced painter. It may seem like a simple task, But is this something you want to do? Maybe, but other things could go wrong.

Here are 5 reasons why DIY cabinet painting is a bad idea:

1. The Extensive Preparation Process

Preparing your cabinets for painting is a crucial step in the process. Old cabinets become covered with a sticky residue from grease and other substances that must be removed before applying paint.

If you do it incorrectly, the result won’t be as good as you’d hoped. An experienced painter thoroughly preps the area — including using a primer — before applying any paint.

2. Forgetting to Remove the Doors

The easiest and quickest way to get the job done is to apply a fresh coat of color while the doors remain attached. However, this results in paint dripping onto every surface of the cabinet and underlying countertops. Furthermore, it makes the doors easier to bump into during drying, leaving smears and smudges on the fresh coat of paint.

3. Using Thick Layers of Paint

Some people think thicker layers are better. The belief is that the surface they create will become more durable. But the opposite is actually true. The paint may easily chip off when the layers are too thick, creating an eyesore in your kitchen.

4. Forgetting to Use Primer

The primer step is often forgotten but is one of the most important. Using a primer creates a surface that will allow the color of your paint to be the star. It also gives the paint something to stick to after application.

5. Using the Wrong Finish

Cabinets, especially in the kitchen, are in the splash zone. They get covered in grease and grime, so using a shiny paint will make them easier to wipe clean. Semi-gloss or satin is more favorable than matte paint finishes.When you want to turn your old cabinets into something new, contact the professionals at 360° Painting and avoid making these 5 common mistakes. We’ll provide you with a free estimate and color consultation, so your cabinets will be perfect from the start. Call 360° Painting at 1-866-99-PAINT to get started.

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