Choosing Between the Different Kinds of Cabinet Finishes
Finishes for kitchen cabinets can vary, depending on what the manufacturer produces. However, the most common finishes for kitchen cabinets are stain, paint, and laminate. Today, we will explore all three to help you choose the right one for you and your kitchen.
1. Paint Finish
This is a popular option for those who want to add color to their kitchen, but don’t want to pay too much. The costs are low, but the risks are higher. Before you paint your cabinets, you must ensure that the paint is good for food contact. Some paints contain harmful chemicals that can be hazardous if used to paint your kitchen cabinets. This is why it’s best to be particular about your paint’s contents.
Why Choose Paint Finish: Painting is pretty easy to do and doesn’t really require professional help. A paint finish will also add life and vibrancy to your kitchen, helping you cultivate a more energetic mood overall.
Why Paint Finish isn’t so Great: Even if you choose the best wood conditioner and the best paint, your kitchen cabinets can still chip or peel fairly easily. The other thing you have to consider is the smell of paint. It is highly volatile and can cause headaches, but if you do it on a day where you don’t have to stay in your kitchen, then you might be okay.
2. Stain Finish
Stains are also a great way to add color to your kitchen cabinets, though not as vibrant as paint. They are easy to apply, but they do require a few days to cure. The variety of stains available is staggering, and you can experiment to find the right color for your style.
Why Choose Stain Finish: If you want to add color to your kitchen but don’t have time for a paint job, then this is the option for you. Preserve the charm that bare wood provides with the help of stain finishes. Stains also have the benefit of being fully durable and waterproof, making them ideal for kitchens. Lastly, stains are often cheaper than paint.
Why a Stain Finish isn’t so Great: The downside to stain finishes includes their color. It’s not as eye-catching as paint, and the color can be a little dull. Also, it will not last you as long as paint, since it tends to rub off much more quickly. Lastly if the wood you’re staining doesn’t look nice, stains probably won’t help, so make sure to choose the right wood for this finish!
3. Laminate Finish
This is the most durable finish for kitchen cabinets and is also the easiest to apply. It’s a no-fuss option that is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. This is mainly used on ready-to-assemble furniture.
Why Choose Laminate Finish: Laminate is probably one of the most popular finish options for kitchens. It is extremely resilient and can last for years. The finish is very durable, and you can easily clean it off and maintain it without much fuss.
Why a Laminate Finish Isn’t so Great: Laminate is a plastic covering, so it will look very similar to wood, but it is not wood. Laminate finishes are often found on less expensive furniture, and can be a little flimsy. They can also be damaged by water, so while you can clean them, you cannot submerge them in water.
Conclusion
Choosing the right finish for your kitchen cabinets can be tough. Hopefully, the tips we’ve provided can help you make an informed choice. Your kitchen is a place of nutrition and bonding, so it’s best to take your time when planning it out.
Check out more of our kitchen design tips, and learn more about how you can improve your kitchen’s functionality and aesthetics. We at Blossom & Broom like to provide you with useful information that you use to put your home design goals within your reach!
