Primer And Paint: Good Choice For Cabinets? (2024)

Painting cabinets can be a great way to give your space a new look without breaking the bank. But before you grab a paintbrush, it's important to understand the role of primer. While paint delivers the colour, primer prepares the surface for painting and solves issues like porous surfaces, stains, unwanted odours, uneven sheen, and adhesion problems. When it comes to cabinets, especially in kitchens, it's crucial to choose a formula that offers excellent coverage, adhesion, and resistance to mould and mildew due to high humidity and moisture levels.

Now, is a 2-in-1 primer and paint good for cabinets? The answer is a bit nuanced. While these products can save time and provide convenience, they may not always deliver the best results. Using separate primer and paint allows for greater control over the outcome and ensures that each step serves its specific purpose effectively. However, if your cabinets are in good condition and you're not making a drastic colour change, a 2-in-1 product can be a viable option. Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific situation and preferences.

Pros and cons of 2-in-1 primer and paint

Combining primer and paint into one product eliminates the priming step, saving time and effort for DIYers. This product is ideal for interior drywall that has been previously painted, as it adheres well to such surfaces. It is also suitable for exterior use, as it has increased adhesion and stain-blocking capabilities.

However, 2-in-1 primer and paint may not be suitable for all projects. For example, surfaces like wood and metal typically require a separate primer for proper adhesion. Additionally, specialty primers may be needed for surfaces like vinyl, aluminium siding, and stucco to handle pH levels and other specific requirements.

One of the main disadvantages of using a 2-in-1 product is the cost. These products tend to be more expensive, and if adhesion or bleed-through issues occur, additional costs will be incurred to fix the problem.

When deciding whether to use a 2-in-1 primer and paint, it is essential to consider the specific surface and project requirements. While it can save time and be effective for some projects, it may not be suitable for all surfaces, and the higher cost should be factored into the decision-making process.

Best brands for 2-in-1 primer and paint

When it comes to 2-in-1 primer and paint, there are several brands that offer quality products. Here are some of the best brands to consider:

• Kilz: Kilz is a trusted paint brand known for its high-quality primers. They offer a range of products like the Kilz Original Interior Primer, which is effective at blocking stains and odours. Another option is the Kilz 2 All-Purpose Interior/Exterior Primer, which is a water-based formula with low VOC content, making it ideal for eco-conscious consumers.
• Rust-Oleum: This brand is well-known for its protective paints and coatings. Their Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 Water-Base Primer is an excellent all-purpose primer-sealer that adheres to various surfaces. Rust-Oleum also offers the Clean Metal Primer, which is ideal for covering lightly rusted metals and bare or previously painted metals.
• Sherwin-Williams: Sherwin-Williams is a reputable paint brand that offers a range of products. Their SuperPaint Interior Acrylic Latex is a paint-and-primer combo that provides one-coat coverage on drywall, trim, and ceilings. It is thick and ensures solid coverage.
• Benjamin Moore: This brand offers a range of primers suitable for different surfaces. For instance, their Regal Select High Build Exterior Paint is a self-priming paint, while their Prime Lock is ideal for unpainted wood surfaces.
• Valspar: Valspar is another brand that provides a quality 2-in-1 primer and paint option. Their Ultra Premium product is a self-priming paint that can be used for various projects.

When choosing a 2-in-1 primer and paint, it is essential to consider the specific surface you will be working on and select a product that is suitable for that surface type. Additionally, it is worth noting that while these products can save time and steps, they might not always be the best option for certain projects, especially those involving raw or unpainted surfaces.

How to prepare cabinets for painting

Step 1: Assess the condition of your cabinets

Before you start painting, it's important to check if your cabinets can be painted. If your cabinets are made of cheap materials and are old and frail, it might be better to replace them instead of painting them. Surfaces that are already painted can usually be painted again, but if the existing paint is in poor condition, it will need to be removed. You can use a stripping product to remove old paint—simply apply it with a brush, wait for it to react with the paint, and then scrape it away with a plastic scraper. You can also use sandpaper to remove any remaining paint once it's dry. If your cabinets were painted before 1978, you should test for lead-based paint and call a professional if necessary.

Step 2: Empty the cabinets and remove the doors

Remove everything from your cabinets and take off the doors, drawers, and hardware. Label each piece with painter's tape so you know where to reinstall them. Place the hardware in a plastic bag and label it as well.

Step 3: Remove dirt, grease, and repair damages

Clean all surfaces with a degreaser such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) to remove any grease and dirt. Repair any damaged areas with wood filler, using a putty knife to smooth it out. Let the filler dry according to the directions before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Prep the area and sand

Cover your countertops, appliances, and any other areas you want to protect. Place painter's tape on the wall along the cabinet edges. Sand everything with medium-grit sandpaper to help the paint adhere better. For detailed areas on doors, drawers, and corners, fold the sandpaper to get into the crevices. If your cabinets are made of laminate, you'll need to use a special bonding primer, and you should lightly sand the laminate before priming.

Step 5: Vacuum and clean the area

Vacuum all surfaces and use a tack cloth to ensure that everything is dust-free before you start painting.

Step 6: Prime the cabinets

Applying primer is an important step to ensure that your paint adheres well and that any imperfections are covered. Work from the inside out, starting at the back of the cabinet and working towards the front. Use a brush for corners and detailed areas, and a mini roller for large, flat areas. You don't need to worry about making it perfect—just focus on covering the surface and creating a good base for the finish paint. Once you've covered the surface, go over it again with a dry roller or brush to remove any buildup.

Step 7: Sand, caulk, and fill

After the primer is dry, sand the flat surfaces with 220-grit sandpaper and any profiled surfaces with a medium-grit sanding sponge. The wood should feel smooth to the touch. Use latex caulk to fill in any open seams, and fill any small dents, scratches, or dings with vinyl spackle, smoothing it out with a putty knife. Once the spackle is dry, sand again, vacuum, and wipe with a tack cloth.

Step 8: Paint the cabinets

You're now ready to start painting! If you're painting over a dark finish with a light color, you may need three coats of paint. For each coat, use a brush for the corners and edges, and a roller for the large flat surfaces. Allow the paint to dry completely between coats, and lightly sand the surfaces before applying the next coat.

Step 9: Reinstall the cabinet doors and hardware

Once the paint is dry, reinstall the doors, drawers, and hardware. Put everything back in its original place, using the labels you made earlier.

Tips:

• If you're painting over glossy surfaces, use a deglosser or sandpaper to create a rough surface that will help the paint adhere better.
• Always choose high-quality paint and primer—it will make your job easier and give you better results.
• Consider using a roller in addition to a brush for a smoother, streak-free finish.
• Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and wear a dust mask or respirator to protect yourself from dust and fumes.
• If you're using new hardware, you can clean or refinish the old hardware with spray paint.

How to choose the right primer for your cabinets

A primer is a crucial step in painting your cabinets as it helps the paint adhere to the surface and ensures a long-lasting, high-quality finish. Here are some tips to help you choose the right primer for your cabinet painting project:

Understand the Purpose of Primer

Recognize that the primer's job is to prepare the cabinet surface for painting. It helps solve issues like porous surfaces, stains, unwanted odours, uneven sheen, and adhesion problems. When it comes to kitchen cabinets, especially, it's important to choose a primer that offers excellent coverage, adhesion, and resistance to mould and mildew due to the high humidity and moisture levels in kitchens.

Consider Cabinet Material and Condition

The type of primer you choose will depend on the material and condition of your cabinets. For instance, if you have wooden cabinets, you'll want to consider a primer that can fill the wood grain effectively. If your cabinets are made of laminate, you'll need a primer that addresses adhesion problems on non-stick surfaces. Assess the current condition of your cabinets and choose a primer that can address any issues like stains, odours, or surface imperfections.

Choose the Right Type of Primer

There are four main types of primers: water-based, oil-based, shellac-based, and hybrid.

• Water-based acrylic or latex primers are easy to work with, quick-drying, and have a mild odour, but may not be as durable.
• Oil-based primers have been the professional's choice due to their high performance, but they give off unpleasant fumes, require respiratory protection, and have longer drying times.
• Shellac-based primers, originally made from resin produced by the Asian Lac beetle, are now synthetic. They are often clear, great for distressed finishes, easy to spray, and have a moderate odour.
• Hybrid acrylic urethane primers combine the benefits of oil- and water-based primers, offering ease of use, good durability, and easy cleanup, but may not have the same level of odour or stain blocking.

Assess Odour and Stain-Blocking Needs

Consider the odours and stains that may be present on your cabinets, especially in kitchens where smoke, food spills, grease, and nicotine can be absorbed. Choose a primer with effective odour- and stain-blocking properties to address these issues and prevent them from bleeding through your paint.

Ensure Proper Adhesion

The main purpose of primer is to provide an adhesion layer between the surface and the topcoat of paint. Choose a primer that sticks well to your cabinet material and accepts the type of paint you plan to use. Some primers are specifically designed for high adhesion on challenging surfaces like glossy laminate.

Consider Environmental and Health Impacts

Primers contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can cause health and environmental issues. Oil-based primers tend to have higher VOC levels and emit hazardous fumes, so proper ventilation and respiratory protection are crucial. Water-based primers are generally more environmentally friendly and have lower odours, but even low-odour primers can have unpleasant smells, so always follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Research Specific Products

Look for specific primer products that suit your needs. For example, KILZ offers a range of primers for kitchen cabinets, including the KILZ 3® Premium Primer, which is fast-drying, low-odour, and mildew-resistant, making it ideal for high-moisture areas. Zinsser and INSL-X also offer primers with excellent adhesion and bonding properties, suitable for a variety of surfaces.

Prepare the Cabinets Properly

Before priming, ensure your cabinets are thoroughly cleaned and dried. Depending on the material and primer chosen, you may need to sand or degloss the cabinets to create a rough surface for better paint adhesion. Remove hardware, fill any holes or patches, and sand smooth before priming.

Apply Multiple Coats if Necessary

In most cases, one coat of primer will suffice, but for very dark cabinets or porous surfaces, you may need two coats to effectively hide the old colour or prepare the surface. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying times between coats.

By following these steps and choosing a primer that suits your specific needs, you can ensure a successful cabinet painting project with a durable and long-lasting finish.

How to apply primer to cabinets

Preparation

Before applying primer to your cabinets, you must first prepare the cabinets. Start by removing the hardware, doors, drawers, and any other fixtures. Number the doors and drawers to make reinstallation easier. Next, clean the cabinet frames, doors, and drawers thoroughly with a TSP and water solution. Pay special attention to cabinets near the range, as grease tends to accumulate in the various recesses. Then, lightly sand all surfaces that will be painted with 220-grit paper. This includes both sides of the doors, the drawer fronts, rails, and stiles. Finally, wipe down the surfaces with a damp cloth to remove any dust or residue. It is important to ensure that the surfaces are clean and smooth before applying the primer.

Choosing the Right Primer

When choosing a primer for your cabinets, it is important to select one that will provide good adhesion and coverage. Oil-based primers, such as Zinsser BIN Shellac Primer, are recommended for kitchen cabinets as they provide a strong bond and can seal and cover stains. If you are using a water-based paint, a water-based primer, such as KILZ 3 Premium Primer, is also a good option as it can help with adhesion and stain blocking.

Applying the Primer

Once your cabinets are prepared and you have chosen the right primer, you can begin the application process. Using a brush, roller, or sprayer, apply the primer in thin, even coats, moving in the same direction as the wood grain. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying a second coat, if necessary. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dry times, as they may vary depending on the product and environmental conditions.

Sanding and Additional Coats

After the primer has dried, lightly sand the surface with high-grit sandpaper (220-grit or higher) to smooth out any drips or brush marks. Wipe away the dust with a tack cloth, and apply a second coat of primer if needed. Repeat the sanding process after the second coat for a super smooth finish.

Applying primer to cabinets is a crucial step in the painting process, as it ensures better adhesion and a more durable finish. By following the steps outlined above, you can achieve a professional-looking result that will transform the look of your cabinets.

Frequently asked questions