Transform Kitchen Cabinets With Semi-Gloss White Paint (2024)

Painting kitchen cabinets is a great way to refresh your space without the cost of installing new cabinets. While there are many colours and types of paint to choose from, a classic option is white semi-gloss paint. This type of paint is highly reflective and will make your kitchen look bright and vibrant. It is also durable and water-resistant, making it ideal for busy households. However, semi-gloss paint is more prone to fading and may show imperfections more than other finishes.

Sanding and prep

Step 1: Remove Hardware and Doors

Start by removing all the cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Label each door and drawer with painter's tape to indicate their corresponding locations, so you can easily reinstall them later. This step ensures that you have easy access to all surfaces and prevents paint from getting on the hardware.

Step 2: Clean the Cabinets

Before sanding, it's essential to clean the cabinets thoroughly to remove any grease, dirt, or grime buildup. Use a grease-cutting solution such as trisodium phosphate (TSP) or a degreaser. Dishwashing liquid can also be used, but a dedicated grease remover is more effective. Mix the solution according to the instructions, scrub the cabinets, and then rinse them with clear water. Finally, wipe the cabinets dry with a clean rag.

Step 3: Repair Damages

Look for any imperfections, such as deep scuffs, nicks, holes, gouges, or scratches, and use wood filler to repair them. Squeeze the wood filler into the damaged areas and use a putty knife to spread it evenly and smooth it out. Allow the wood filler to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4: Sand the Cabinets

Sanding is crucial for creating a rough surface that will allow the paint to adhere properly. Use 120-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge to sand the cabinets lightly. If your cabinets have a rough surface from a previous paint job or poor varnishing, start with coarser 100-grit sandpaper to remove bumps, and then switch to 120-grit sandpaper for a smoother finish. Fold the sandpaper to reach detailed areas, such as corners and crevices. Remember, you don't need to sand down to the bare wood; just scuff up the surface to create a good base for the paint.

Step 5: Vacuum and Wipe Down

After sanding, it's important to remove all the dust from the cabinets, doors, and drawer fronts. Use a vacuum with a soft-bristle brush attachment to remove loose dust, and then follow up with a tack cloth to pick up any remaining dust. Wipe the surfaces gently with the tack cloth, shaking it out frequently, and replace it when it loses its dust-grabbing ability.

By following these steps for sanding and prep work, you'll be well on your way to achieving a high-quality finish when painting your kitchen cabinets white with a semi-gloss finish.

Primer

Painting kitchen cabinets can be a great way to transform your kitchen. Priming is an important step in the painting process, as it prepares the surface for painting and helps solve issues like porous surfaces, stains, unwanted odours, uneven sheen, and adhesion problems. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for priming your kitchen cabinets before painting them white semi-gloss:

Choose the Right Primer:

Laminate cabinets require a special bonding primer. If you are using IKEA laminate furniture, the best primer is Kilz. It has a strong odour and runny consistency, but it creates a textured surface for the paint to grip onto. For other surfaces, such as rough wood or glossy laminate, a high-quality primer like KILZ 2® All-Purpose can be used to promote adhesion. If you are painting over a darker colour, use a primer with a thick, high-hide formula like KILZ 3 Premium Primer to prevent the original colour from showing through.

Prepare the Cabinets:

Before priming, it is important to clean and prepare the cabinets. Remove the cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware. Label where each piece goes with painter's tape. Clean all surfaces with a degreaser or TSP cleaner to remove any grease and dirt. Repair any damaged areas with wood filler. Sand the cabinets with medium-grit sandpaper (120-grit followed by 220-grit) to create a smooth surface and help the primer adhere better. Be careful not to sand too deeply if you are working with laminate cabinets.

Prime the Cabinets:

When priming the cabinets, work from the inside out. Start with the cabinet frames, using a brush for corners and detailed areas, and a mini roller for large, flat areas. Use even strokes and finish back into the wet primer. The primer doesn't have to look perfect, but it should cover the surface evenly. After priming, lightly go over the surface with a dry roller or brush to remove any buildup. This is called "laying off." Allow the primer to dry according to the directions, usually a few hours. Some primers may require sanding between coats.

Paint the Cabinets:

Once the primer is dry, you can start painting your cabinets white semi-gloss. Use a high-quality brush for smaller areas and a foam roller for larger surfaces. Apply the paint using even strokes and finish the stroke back into the wet paint, feathering out the edges. Allow the paint to dry completely and apply a second coat if needed. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cure time.

Paint sprayer vs roller

Painting kitchen cabinets is a great way to extend the life of your cabinets and give your kitchen a much-needed facelift. There are multiple ways to approach this task, but the two most common methods are with a roller and brush or a paint sprayer.

Using a roller and brush to paint your kitchen cabinets is a more tedious process that yields slower results. It is difficult to paint cabinets with a brush without leaving noticeable brush strokes, so achieving a flawless finish is challenging. However, this method provides the best control and adhesion. It allows you to apply thick or thin coats of paint, and you will use less paint overall.

On the other hand, using a paint sprayer is the fastest approach and will give you a factory-like finish. You can paint each side of your cabinet doors or drawers in just a few seconds, and the results will be consistent without any brush strokes or drips. However, using a sprayer requires more preparation, as you will need to take your doors and drawers to an outside area or mask and drape the project site to protect surrounding areas from paint flecks. It also requires more skill to operate a sprayer effectively, and you will use two to three times more paint.

Tips for Using a Roller

If you opt to use a roller, it is recommended to use a short-nap mini roller and a high-quality brush for touch-ups. This method will still require sanding and preparation, but it will be less intensive than the preparation needed for a sprayer.

Tips for Using a Paint Sprayer

If you choose to use a paint sprayer, it is important to practice beforehand to ensure you get consistent results. You will also need to protect the surrounding area from overspray, which can be time-consuming. Additionally, be prepared to sand between coats, as this will help you achieve a smooth, professional finish.

Both methods have their pros and cons, but ultimately, the best option for your project will depend on your specific needs and constraints. If you are looking for speed and a flawless finish, a paint sprayer is the way to go. If you are more concerned about cost and control, a roller and brush may be the better choice.

Paint type

When it comes to painting kitchen cabinets, there are several types of paint to choose from, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here is a detailed guide to help you select the best paint type for achieving a semi-gloss white finish on your kitchen cabinets:

Oil-Based Paint

Oil-based paints are known for their resilient finish and ease of cleaning. They create a surface that can withstand scrubbing and resist wear and tear. However, they have some significant drawbacks. Oil-based paints have high levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) which can be irritating to the eyes, nose, throat, and may cause dizziness and headaches. They take a very long time to dry between coats, requiring good air circulation, which is often challenging in a kitchen. Additionally, oil-based paints tend to yellow over time, especially in low-light conditions, which can make your cabinets look dingy.

Latex Paint (Water-Based Paint)

Latex paint, also known as water-based paint, is the more modern and widely available option. It offers lower VOC levels and quicker drying time compared to oil-based paint. Advances in latex paint formulas have improved their durability, making them suitable for kitchen cabinets as they can now withstand scrubbing and regular cleaning. However, latex paint may require more prep work, especially when painting over wood cabinets, as it tends to show variances in the grain or texture. It is important to properly prep and prime the surface before using latex paint to achieve an even finish.

Alkyd Paint

Alkyd paint is a water-based paint with an enamel finish similar to oil paint but containing no oil. It is specifically designed for use on metal or wood surfaces like kitchen cabinets. Alkyd paint leaves a hard, semi-gloss finish that is durable and resistant to scratches. It is self-levelling, which means it dries smoothly and evenly, resulting in a professional-looking finish. Alkyd paint is tougher than oil-based paint and does not require a top coat. However, it can be harmful if used in an unventilated area, and proper disposal of supplies is crucial. Hybrid alkyd paint, such as waterborne alkyd, is a newer option that offers lower VOCs and easier cleanup with soap and water.

Paint Brands and Colours

When selecting a paint brand, consider options like Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel, Benjamin Moore Advanced (alkyd enamel paint), and Behr (a more budget-friendly option). These brands offer paint lines specifically formulated for cabinets, providing a smooth and durable finish. For a classic look, choose a crisp white shade like Sherwin Williams' SW Emerald Hi Hide White or Behr's Polar Bear.

Finish

Painting kitchen cabinets:

When painting your kitchen cabinets, it is important to consider the type of paint and finish you will use. While oil-based paints are known for their resilient finish, they have longer drying times and release higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Latex paint is a better choice as it has lower VOCs and dries quicker, but it may not be as durable. For the best results, use a paint sprayer instead of a roller or paintbrush to achieve a contactless, even finish.

Semi-gloss finish:

A semi-gloss finish is a good choice for kitchen cabinets as it adds a subtle shine without being too overpowering. It is also bright and clean, reflecting light to create a sense of openness and airiness in the room. This finish is highly durable and resistant to water, moisture, scratches, and other damage, making it ideal for busy households. Semi-gloss finishes are also easier to clean and maintain than high-gloss finishes, as they are less prone to showing fingerprints, smudges, and other marks.

Preparation:

Before painting your kitchen cabinets, it is important to prepare the surface properly. Sand down the top layer of protective finish or use a degreaser to create a smooth surface. If your cabinets are made of wood veneer, repair any loose edges, chips, or cracks with wood glue before sanding. If your cabinets are made of MDF, seal the edges with drywall compound and use an oil-based primer to prevent moisture absorption. For laminate cabinets, use a laminate-specific primer or paint and sand the surface before and after priming.

Topcoats and maintenance:

Alkyd paint dries to a hard, semi-gloss finish and does not require a topcoat. However, it is important to note that alkyd paints can be harmful if not used in a well-ventilated area, and proper disposal of supplies is necessary. To maintain your semi-gloss finish, regularly wipe the surfaces with a damp cloth to keep them looking fresh and clean.

Frequently asked questions