If you’re preparing to paint your cabinets, you might think that color is the most crucial factor. While color is indeed important, it’s far from the only consideration. With various types of paint available, it’s essential to choose the best option for your cabinets. Should you go with oil, latex, or acrylic? And what about the sheen? Here’s what you need to know when selecting paint for your kitchen cabinets.

Oil Paint

There’s ongoing debate about whether oil-based or latex-based paints are best for cabinets. Oil-based paints are known for their durability and ability to withstand the daily wear and tear typical in kitchens. They also offer excellent coverage, resulting in a smooth, beautiful finish on your cabinets.

However, oil-based paints come with drawbacks. They emit Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful to both people and pets and potentially lethal to small animals. These fumes can continue to off-gas for months after painting, making it more than just a matter of airing out your kitchen for a few days.

Another downside is the drying time. While oil-based paint can deliver a stunning finish, it takes significantly longer to dry, which can extend the overall time needed to complete your project and increase the risk of smudging the paint before it’s fully set.

Latex Paint

Latex-based paints dry much faster and deliver a consistent finish, making them a convenient option for cabinet painting. They’re also generally more affordable than oil-based paints and offer a wider range of choices. An added advantage is the availability of low- or no-VOC latex paints, which means you can avoid harsh fumes—especially important if you have children or pets.

However, latex-based paints have some downsides. They typically aren’t as durable as oil-based options, which is a crucial consideration in a busy kitchen if you want your paint job to last. Additionally, achieving a smooth, flawless finish with latex paint often requires more extensive prep work, including thorough cleaning, sanding, and priming.

Acrylic Paint

In addition to oil- and latex-based paints, acrylic paint is another excellent choice for kitchen cabinets. It’s highly durable, resisting everyday wear and tear without chipping, cracking, or flaking over time.

Acrylic paint also adheres well to cabinet surfaces, reducing the risk of peeling. You can choose between water- or oil-based acrylic paint, with water-based being the most eco-friendly option, offering low VOC levels. It’s also easier to work with compared to oil-based paints, making it a practical and safer choice for your kitchen.

What About Sheen?

When selecting paint for your kitchen cabinets, you’ll also need to consider the sheen. Paint typically comes in matte, gloss, satin, eggshell, or semi-gloss finishes.

While matte finishes are often used on walls, it’s best to go with gloss or semi-gloss for kitchen cabinets. These finishes provide a more durable surface that can withstand daily wear and tear and is easier to clean.

On the other hand, matte, eggshell, and satin finishes are less durable for cabinet surfaces and more challenging to maintain. However, if you’re painting the inside of your cabinets, eggshell is an excellent choice as it can handle the weight of dishes and cookware without cracking or denting.

The Simplest Way to Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets

Looking for the easiest way to paint your cabinets? Hire the professionals at N-Hance of NW San Antonio & Comal County. We use a proprietary water-based acrylic polyurethane blend developed specifically for cabinets after years of research. This unique paint provides the flawless finish of oil-based paints without the associated risks, while offering the durability needed for an active kitchen.

Additionally, our LightSpeed® Nano system cures your cabinets in seconds instead of days, allowing you to return to your routine quickly. This advanced system also delivers a stronger, more resilient finish that resists chipping, cracking, scratching, and peeling. With N-Hance of NW San Antonio & Comal County, you’ll get beautiful, long-lasting painted cabinets with minimal hassle.

Ready to find out more about painting your kitchen cabinets? Call N-Hance of NW San Antonio & Comal County today at 830-299-4144 to set up a FREE consultation and quote.