Kitchen Cabinets painted with Durapoxy

What is the best paint for kitchen cabinets? Homeowners will often ask this question and the answer is: "it depends…" In terms of conventional acrylic paint, we like Kelly Moore Durapoxy. We have used plenty of Durapoxy on trim and kitchen cabinets that have been previously painted. It's fairly durable, sticks well to alkyd finishes, is fast-drying and easy to apply. Durapoxy also levels fairly well for a relatively smooth look. If you want an easy-to-apply product that will give great results and be low-impact in terms of odor and drying, Durapoxy is a solid option. When considering what is the best paint for kitchen cabinetry, Durapoxy is a great choice for people looking to "do it themselves".

Painting with water-oil Hybrids

Another classification of paint to consider when painting kitchen cabinets is the oil-water "hybrid". Paint companies developed "hybrid" paints to mimic the characteristics of a conventional oil/alkyd paint with the ease of water clean-up. Do Hybrids really perform like oil-based paints? The short answer is "no". That said, Hybrids tend to stick well to glossy surfaces and have a smoother appearance than conventional paints, including Durapoxy. Hybrids are also "greener" and have lower VOC's and than their oil-based precursors. One can easily apply hybrids using a brush and roller, making them another viable option for "do it yourselfers".

Some examples of Hybrids are: Kelly Moore Epic, Ben Moore Advance, Sherwin Williams Proclassic and Dunn Edwards Aristoshield. We like the Dunn Edwards Aristoshield, because it most closely mimics the durability and appearance of oil-based paint. Be forewarned that it also has some residual odor that will linger for a few days. Ben Moore and Home Depot sell a hybridized water-polyurethane called insl-x Cabinet Coat. This product has low odor, sticks and levels great, but only comes in white.

High-end cabinet finishes

None of the above products will come close to the mirror-like finish, durability and stain/chemical resistance of a pre-catalyzed lacquer coating or Conversion Varnish. If you buy finished kitchen cabinets from a factory or custom cabinet shop, they will generally have a "lacquer" coating, which is a far superior finish than conventional paints. Therefore, if you have brand-new, un-painted cabinets, or high end, pre-lacquered cabinets, I would recommend re-coating with lacquer. The downside: Lacquer must be sprayed, generally using a special gun (air assisted) and is a big logistical process. It also reeks intensely for a short while. You generally would never use a pre-catalyzed lacquer on doors, windows, and trim. It is basically a furniture and cabinet finish. If you are looking for a "pre-catalyzed" lacquer or conversion varnish finish, you must hire a professional painting contractor with the skill equipment and experience.

What is the best paint for kitchen cabinets? It depends on what your needs are! Hopefully this article has provided some clarity.

Kitchen cabinets finished with a catalyzed lacquer

Todd Worsfold of Color Touch Painting has decades of experience in producing quality interior and exterior paint jobs in the demanding San Francisco Bay Area market. He began painting over 35 years ago while attending the University of Vermont, then, after graduating with a bachelor in science, he found himself in San Francisco restoring Victorians. With a keen eye for detail and an ability to finish demanding projects, Todd earned his painting contractor's license and founded his company in 1994. Since then, he and his crew have transformed countless Bay Area homes, inside and out. Todd's philosophy for the last 24 years has been based on providing a great product for a fair price. He understands the need for the right tools, the right paint, a great crew and a clean, solid methodology. All of Todd's newly hired employees receive personal training and oversight in order to improve their skills and strengthen their contributions to the team effort. Todd believes that creating a great product in an efficient way involves building a solid foundation through good communication, thinking ahead and completing a series of steps in a careful, thorough manner. Additionally, Todd is EPA certified for safe removal of lead paint. He and his crew work in both the city and East Bay and can be reached through Cole's repair referral service.

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