Painted kitchen cabinets can last up to 15 years with good maintenance and proper care.
As professional painters, keep a few things in mind to enhance the life expectancy of your painted kitchen cabinets. The exact lifespan of your cabinets will depend on the quality of the paint and how often they are used.
Additionally, it depends on how well you clean them, and environmental factors such as humidity.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the lifespan of painted kitchen cabinets and how to make them last as long as possible!
What is the average life expectancy of professionally painted cabinets?
The average life expectancy of professionally painted kitchen cabinets is approximately 10 years or more. However, this number varies depending on the quality of the paint, how often you use them, and other external factors such as humidity.
With good maintenance and proper care, it is possible to significantly extend the life of your painted kitchen cabinets. Regularly wiping down surfaces and doors to remove dirt, dust, and fingerprints will help prevent wear and tear from everyday use.
Additionally, periodically cleaning your cabinets with a mild cleaner will help prevent the build-up of everyday grime and grease. It is also essential to inspect your cabinets for any signs of damage or wear, such as cracked paint or chipped edges.
Why don’t the painted cabinets last long?
Here are the reasons why your painted kitchen cabinets won’t last long:
Not prepping the cabinet
Painted kitchen cabinets need to be properly prepped before applying any paint. This means sanding, cleaning, and possibly priming the surface.
Failing to prep the cabinets can lead to the paint being applied too thinly and not adhering properly, drastically reducing lifespan.
Not removing the doors
The paint on your cabinet doors will typically wear out faster than the body of the cabinets. This is because they are more frequently opened and closed, resulting in more wear and tear.
To extend the life of your painted kitchen cabinets, it is important to remove the doors and paint both sides separately.
Not labeling the door and the hardware
This is a common mistake that occurs while painting cabinets. Labeling the doors and hardware will help you identify each piece and reassemble everything correctly.
Skipping the primer
Using a primer will help prevent cracking, peeling, and fading of the paint. It also helps create an adhesive layer that allows the paint to adhere better to the surface.
Skipping the primer can make your cabinets more prone to wear and tear over time.
Failing to use the right paint finish
Paint finishes come in a variety of sheens, ranging from high-gloss to flat. Your finish will depend on where the cabinets are located and how much wear and tear they are likely to receive.
For instance, high-gloss paint may be better suited for kitchens due to regular use. High-gloss paint will keep them looking clean and polished.
Applying thick paint layers
Using too much paint can be problematic for a few reasons. Firstly, it will take longer to dry and may lead to brushing marks or drips on the surface.
Secondly, it can cause cracking and peeling over time. This happens because of the increased weight of the paint.
Not letting the paint dry before using
Painted kitchen cabinets need adequate time to dry before they can be used. If used too soon, the paint may not have fully cured and can be easily damaged by oil, dirt, and moisture.
Tips to make painted cabinets last longer
Here are some ways that can help make your painted kitchen cabinets last longer:
Label each cabinet door
Label each cabinet door and the hardware before painting, and keep a record of the labels somewhere easily accessible
Thoroughly clean the cabinet
Clean the surfaces with a mild cleaner before painting to remove dirt and grease. This will help prevent dirt and grease build-up, which can lead to damage.
Fill and Patch the surface
Fill any holes and dents with a putty or patching kit before painting. This will give you an even finish.
Use a Primer
Apply a quality primer before painting to help ensure the paint adheres correctly and lasts longer.
Check for Defects
Inspect the cabinets for any signs of damage or wear, such as chipped edges or cracking paint.
Sand after each coat
Sand the surface after each coat of paint with fine-grade sandpaper. This will help create an even finish and prevent any drips or brush marks on your based paint.
Use High Quality Paints
Using high-quality paints is key to making your painted kitchen cabinets last longer. Paints with higher sheen are more durable and will withstand wear and tear more effectively.
Try Benjamin Moore if you are looking for quality paints. Additionally you can also use spray paints if you want a quicker method of painting.
Pick the right finish
Choose a finish that is suited for the cabinets’ location and level of wear and tear. For example, high-gloss paints will be better suited for kitchens due to their durability.
Conclusion
To sum up, painted kitchen cabinets can last for many years if they are properly prepped, primed, and painted using quality paints. Careful attention should be paid to detail, and the right finish should be chosen for each surface.
Following these steps will result in cabinets that can withstand wear and tear, making them look new for years to come.With some patience, you can create a beautiful kitchen that lasts for years to come.
Cabinet painting has never been this easy. Happy painting in your DIY project!
FAQ
How often should you paint wood cabinets?
It is recommended that you repaint your wood cabinets every 5 to 7 years. However, the frequency of painting will depend on the level of wear and tear on the cabinets, as well as the quality of paint used.
You may need to repaint sooner if your cabinets are receiving higher levels of wear and tear.
Do painted cabinets look cheap?
No, painted cabinets do not have to look cheap. With the right preparation, primer, and paint, you can create beautiful cabinets that will last for years.
Picking the right finish is also key to creating a beautiful, long-lasting look.
Will painted cabinets chip?
Painted cabinets may chip or wear over time. The key to preventing chipping is using thick layers of quality paint, followed by a clear sealant.
Applying a clear sealant will protect the paint against dirt and wear, ensuring that your cabinets look fresh for years to come.
Are painted cabinets durable?
Painted kitchen cabinets are durable and last longer than you expect. But they need to be painted right to increase their life expectancy.
Hence the cabinet’s durability depends on the kind of paint, the number of coats, and application methods.
Is painting cabinets hard?
Cabinet painting is not as hard as you think. It only requires patience and time commitment.
On average, you would need to spend 2 hours per cabinet door if you want to achieve results similar to a professional painter. Keep in mind that this time is not for base cabinets.
