Refinishing kitchen cabinets is a cost-effective way to give your space a fresh, updated look without the need for a full cabinet replacement. However, one of the most common issues homeowners face after cabinet refinishing is chipping and peeling. This can be frustrating, especially after investing time and money into the project.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the reasons why cabinets may chip or peel after refinishing and provide detailed, actionable steps to help you avoid these problems. We’ll also compare the costs of refinishing done correctly versus the costs of fixing damaged finishes. By the end, you’ll have the information you need to ensure a long-lasting, durable cabinet finish.

Why Do Cabinets Chip and Peel After Refinishing?

Chipping and peeling often occur when the refinishing process is not done correctly or when certain factors, such as improper surface preparation or environmental conditions, are overlooked. Excessive chipping and peeling could be a sign it’s time for refinishing. Here are the most common reasons:

Improper Surface Preparation: The surface of the cabinets needs to be thoroughly cleaned and sanded before applying new paint or stain. If there is grease, grime, or old finish still on the surface, the new paint or stain will not adhere properly, leading to peeling over time.
Skipping Priming: Some people skip the priming step to save time, but primer is essential for helping paint adhere to the wood or laminate surface.
Incorrect Paint or Finish: Using the wrong type of paint or finish for the material can also cause peeling and chipping. For instance, latex paint may not adhere well to certain types of wood unless properly prepped, while oil-based finishes can be more durable in high-traffic areas.
Environmental Conditions: High humidity, extreme temperatures, or dust in the environment where the cabinets are refinished can impact how the finish dries and adheres to the surface.
Low-Quality Products: Low-cost, low-quality paints or finishes can cause chipping and peeling much more quickly than high-quality, durable products designed specifically for cabinets.

Understanding these issues is the first step in ensuring that your refinished cabinets don’t chip or peel.

Tips to Prevent Chipping & Peeling After Refinishing Cabinets

Now that you know the potential causes of chipping and peeling, let’s dive into how you can avoid these problems by following the right steps during the refinishing process.

Step 1: Proper Surface Preparation

The key to a long-lasting finish is proper surface preparation. If the surface isn’t prepped correctly, no amount of high-quality paint or stain will fix it.

Cleaning: Start by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets to remove grease, grime, and residue. Use a degreaser or a mix of warm water and dish soap. Ensure all surfaces are clean and dry before moving to the next step.
Sanding: Sanding is crucial to remove the old finish and rough up the surface so the new paint or stain can adhere. Use a medium-grit sandpaper (150-220 grit) to lightly sand the surface. Be careful not to sand too hard, as you only need to remove the top layer of the old finish, not the wood underneath.
Filling Holes and Cracks: If your cabinets have any imperfections like cracks or dents, fill them with wood filler and sand them smooth once dry. This step ensures that the surface is even and that the new finish looks smooth and professional.
Removing Dust: After sanding, wipe down the cabinets with a tack cloth to remove all dust. Even small amounts of dust can prevent paint or stain from adhering properly, leading to peeling later on.

Step 2: Use a High-Quality Primer

A primer is essential for creating a strong bond between the surface of your cabinets and the paint or stain. Skipping this step or using a low-quality primer can cause chipping and peeling over time.

Choose the Right Primer: For wood cabinets, an oil-based or shellac-based primer is usually best because it creates a strong barrier between the wood and the paint. For laminate cabinets, a bonding primer is necessary to ensure the paint sticks properly.
Application: Apply the primer in thin, even coats and allow it to dry completely between each coat. Most primers require at least 24 hours of drying time. Applying multiple thin coats will provide a smoother, longer-lasting finish than one thick coat.

Step 3: Select the Right Paint or Stain

The type of cabinet finish you use is just as important as the preparation work. Not all paints and stains are created equal, and selecting the wrong one can result in a finish that chips or peels over time.

Paint for Cabinets: Use a paint specifically designed for cabinetry or high-traffic areas, such as acrylic latex paint, oil-based paint, or enamel. These paints are formulated to withstand the wear and tear of daily use, unlike regular wall paint.
Stains for Wood Cabinets: If you’re refinishing wood cabinets with a stain, choose a high-quality oil-based stain that penetrates deeply into the wood. After staining, a clear topcoat or polyurethane is necessary to protect the wood and stain from moisture and damage.
Avoid Cheap Products: Low-cost paints and stains might seem like a good way to save money, but they often lead to premature chipping and peeling. Investing in high-quality products will save you money in the long run, as the finish will last much longer.

Step 4: Apply Thin, Even Coats

One of the most common mistakes in cabinet refinishing is applying paint or stain too thickly. Thick coats may dry unevenly and lead to cracking, peeling, or chipping.

Multiple Thin Coats: Apply multiple thin coats rather than one thick coat. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next one. This approach results in a smooth, durable finish that is less likely to peel or chip.
Drying Time: Make sure to give each coat adequate time to dry. Rushing the drying process can lead to trapped moisture, which causes the paint to peel over time. For most paints, this means waiting at least 24 hours between coats.

Step 5: Use a Protective Topcoat

A clear topcoat is essential for protecting your newly refinished cabinets from moisture, heat, and daily wear. This is especially important in a kitchen environment where cabinets are exposed to grease, steam, and frequent use.

Types of Topcoats: There are several options for topcoats, including polyurethane, polycrylic, and varnish. Polyurethane is the most durable option, especially for kitchens, but polycrylic is also a good choice for a low-odor, water-based option.
Application: Apply the topcoat in thin, even layers, allowing each coat to dry fully before applying the next. A high-quality topcoat will help prevent the finish from chipping or peeling.

Step 6: Maintain Proper Environmental Conditions

The environment in which you refinish your cabinets can significantly impact the final result. High humidity, dust, or fluctuating temperatures can cause problems during the drying process.

Ideal Conditions: Refinishing should be done in a dust-free, well-ventilated area with temperatures between 50-80°F. Avoid refinishing cabinets in extremely humid or cold environments, as this can lead to improper drying and peeling later on.

Step 7: Proper Care & Maintenance After Refinishing

Once your cabinets are refinished, the way you care for them can determine how long the finish lasts. Chipping and peeling often occur because of improper cleaning or overuse of abrasive cleaners.

Cleaning Tips: Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaner and a soft cloth to clean your cabinets. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can wear away the finish.
Avoid Excessive Moisture: Keep your cabinets dry by wiping up any spills immediately, and avoid excessive exposure to water or steam, especially near sinks or stovetops.

3. Cost Comparisons: Refinishing Done Right vs. Fixing Damaged Finishes

Choosing to refinish your cabinets the right way from the start may seem like an investment, but it’s much more cost-effective than dealing with the consequences of chipping and peeling later on.

Cost of Proper Refinishing: A professional refinishing job can range from $1,500 to $7,000, depending on the size of the kitchen, the type of finish, and the complexity of the job. This upfront cost includes high-quality materials, proper preparation, and protective topcoats, ensuring a durable finish.
Cost of Fixing Chipped or Peeling Cabinets: If your refinished cabinets begin to chip or peel, repairing the damage can be costly. Re-sanding, re-painting, or re-staining damaged cabinets can add an additional $500 to $2,000 in repair costs, depending on the extent of the damage and whether professional help is needed.
Cost of Cabinet Replacement: If the chipping and peeling become too severe, you might be forced to replace your cabinets altogether. The cost of replacing cabinets can range from $6,000 to $30,000, depending on the quality and type of cabinetry.

Conclusion: How to Avoid Peeling & Chipping on Wood Cabinets?

Avoiding chipping and peeling after refinishing your cabinets is all about preparation, product selection, and application technique. By following these steps—cleaning and sanding properly, using a high-quality primer and paint, applying thin coats, and protecting the finish with a topcoat—you can ensure your cabinets remain in excellent condition for years to come.

Investing in professional refinishing services from N-Hance of Wooster can also save you time and prevent costly repairs down the road. With the right approach, you’ll enjoy a beautiful, durable finish that enhances the look of your kitchen and protects your cabinets from daily wear.