With this comprehensive guide, you can easily transform your kitchen cabinets using Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint. Follow these 10 steps to achieve a professional and long-lasting finish that will elevate the look of your kitchen. From preparation to application techniques, we’ve got you covered with everything you need to know to upgrade your space.
Prepare the Cabinets
A crucial step in upgrading your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint is to properly prepare the cabinets before painting. This ensures a smooth and durable finish that will last for years to come.
Clean the Surfaces
One of the first steps in preparing your cabinets is to thoroughly clean the surfaces. Grease, dirt, and grime can build up on kitchen cabinets over time, which can hinder paint adhesion. You can use a mild soap and water solution or a degreaser to clean the cabinets. Make sure to rinse off any cleaning residue and allow the surfaces to dry completely before proceeding with the next steps.
Remove Hardware
There’s no need to remove the cabinet doors or hardware if you are simply repainting them. However, if you want to update the hardware or if they are in the way of your painting process, it’s best to remove them. This includes hinges, knobs, pulls, and any other hardware attached to the cabinets. Use a screwdriver to carefully detach the hardware, keeping track of where each piece belongs so you can easily reattach them later.
Remove the hardware carefully to avoid damaging the cabinets or the hardware itself. Place all screws and hardware in a labeled plastic bag or container to keep them organized and prevent any pieces from getting lost during the painting process.
Sand the Cabinets
One crucial step in upgrading your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint is to properly sand the surfaces to ensure a smooth and durable finish.
Lightly Sand Edges
Sand the edges of the cabinet doors and drawers lightly to remove any roughness or imperfections. This will help the paint adhere better and create a seamless finish once painted.
Smooth Out Surfaces
Sand the flat surfaces of the cabinets using a fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any existing paint or varnish. This will create a clean canvas for the new paint to adhere to and prevent any uneven texture once the painting is complete.
For instance, if your cabinets have any raised panels or intricate designs, make sure to sand these areas carefully to maintain their detail while ensuring a smooth finish.
Fix Any Imperfections
While upgrading your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint, it’s crucial to start with a flawless surface. Fixing any imperfections will ensure a smooth and professional-looking finish.
Fill Dents and Holes
Now, inspect your cabinets for any dents or holes. To fix these imperfections, use a wood filler. Apply the filler with a putty knife, making sure to fill the damaged areas completely. Let the filler dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions before sanding it down to a smooth finish.
Sand Filled Areas
There’s no room for shortcuts when it comes to sanding filled areas. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to carefully smooth out the filled spots until they are level with the rest of the cabinet surface. This step is crucial to ensure that your cabinets have a seamless and flawless appearance once painted.
With these two steps, filling dents and holes, as well as sanding down filled areas, you are well on your way to achieving professional results when upgrading your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint.
Tape Off Surroundings
Once again, before you begin painting your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint, it’s crucial to protect the surrounding areas to avoid any accidental spills or splatters. Use painter’s tape to carefully tape off the areas around your cabinets, such as walls, backsplash, and appliances, to ensure clean lines and a professional finish.
Protect Countertops
Countertops are prone to damage from paint drips and spills during a cabinet painting project. To safeguard your countertops, cover them with a layer of plastic sheeting or old towels. Secure the protective covering in place with painter’s tape to prevent any accidental messes that could be difficult to clean up later.
Cover Flooring
Surroundings
With painting project, it’s crucial to cover the flooring beneath your cabinets to protect it from any paint splatters or drips. Lay down a drop cloth or old sheets to cover the floor and secure them in place with painter’s tape. This will ensure that your floors remain clean and free of any paint damage during the cabinet painting process.
Prime the Cabinets
Despite the temptation to skip this step, priming your kitchen cabinets is crucial to ensuring the paint adheres properly and provides a smooth and durable finish.
Apply Primer Evenly
Prime the cabinets evenly using a high-quality primer suitable for the material of your cabinets. Apply the primer with a brush, roller, or sprayer, making sure to cover all surfaces evenly. This step will create a strong foundation for the paint to bond to and will help prevent issues like peeling or chipping in the future.
Allow to Dry
One of the most important aspects of priming is allowing it to dry completely before applying paint. This typically takes around 24 hours, but be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions on the primer you choose for specific drying times.
For instance, if the primer is not fully dry before you begin painting, it may affect the adhesion of the paint and lead to a less durable finish. Patience is key in this step to ensure the best results for your kitchen cabinet upgrade.
Paint the Cabinets
Apply First Coat
To start the process of upgrading your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint, you’ll first need to apply the first coat. While preparing your workspace by laying down drop cloths and removing all hardware from the cabinets, make sure to clean the cabinets thoroughly with a degreaser to ensure proper adhesion of the paint. Using a high-quality brush or foam roller, apply the first coat of paint in smooth, even strokes, following the direction of the wood grain. Allow this coat to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.
Allow to Dry
While the paint is drying, it’s important to give it ample time to set and cure properly before applying the second coat. This step is crucial in achieving a professional and long-lasting finish. Depending on the temperature and humidity levels in your area, you may need to wait at least 12 hours, or as recommended by the manufacturer, before moving on to the next coat. Avoid touching or handling the cabinets during this drying period to prevent any smudges or imperfections in the paint.
Allowing the first coat to dry thoroughly ensures that the subsequent coats will adhere properly and contribute to a smooth and flawless finish. Patience in this step will pay off in the final result, giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh new look that will last for years to come.
Add Additional Coats
Apply Second Coat
Assuming you have allowed the first coat of Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint to dry completely as per the manufacturer’s instructions, it’s time to apply the second coat. This additional coat will help to deepen the color and ensure a more uniform appearance on your kitchen cabinets.
Apply Third Coat
Coat your kitchen cabinets with a third layer of Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint to achieve a professional and long-lasting finish. This final coat will provide added durability and protection against daily wear and tear in the kitchen.
It’s important to note that adding a third coat is optional, depending on the level of coverage and finish you desire. However, for optimal results and a truly elevated look, we recommend applying this final coat to your kitchen cabinets.
Remove Tape
Many people get excited to remove the masking tape after painting their cabinet doors with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint. This step is crucial to achieving clean and crisp lines on your cabinets. As you peel off the tape, make sure to do it slowly and at a 45-degree angle to prevent any paint from peeling off with it. If you notice any paint peeling, use a sharp utility knife to score along the edge of the tape before continuing to peel it off.
Remove Masking Tape
For an extra clean finish, gently run the utility knife along the edge where the tape meets the painted surface. This will ensure that the tape comes off cleanly without pulling any paint along with it. Once you have removed all the tape, step back and admire the sharp lines and professional finish you have achieved on your kitchen cabinets.
Touch Up Edges
Little imperfections or areas where the paint may have bled under the tape can easily be touched up with a small paintbrush. Simply dip the brush into your Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint and carefully paint over any blemishes. Make sure to feather out the touch-up paint to blend it seamlessly with the rest of the cabinet door. Once dry, your cabinets will look like they were professionally painted.
Touch up any edges where the paint may have bled or where the tape didn’t create a perfect line. Taking the time for these final touches will elevate the look of your kitchen cabinets and make them look brand new.
Reinstall Hardware
Put Back Handles
Unlike the removal process, putting back the handles on your kitchen cabinets is a straightforward task. You can easily align the holes on the cabinet doors with the screws on the handles, making sure they are secured tightly. If you have chosen new hardware for your cabinets, this is the time to showcase them by attaching them neatly and evenly on each door.
Reattach Hinges
For reattaching hinges, it’s vital to ensure that they are lined up correctly with the screw holes on both the cabinet door and the frame. Any misalignment can cause the door to hang unevenly or not close properly. You can use a screwdriver to tighten the screws securely, but make sure not to overtighten them, as it can strip the holes.
Hinges play a crucial role in the functionality of your kitchen cabinet doors. Properly reattaching them will ensure smooth opening and closing movements, as well as longevity for your newly painted cabinets.
Touch Up Paint
Now that you have painted your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint, it’s important to ensure a flawless finish by touching up any imperfections.
Fix Any Mistakes
There’s a chance that during the painting process, you may have missed a spot or accidentally smudged the paint. To fix any mistakes, use a small artist’s brush to carefully touch up the areas that need attention. Keep a steady hand and feather out the touch-up paint to blend it seamlessly with the rest of the cabinets. Once you’ve completed this step, allow the paint to dry completely before moving on to the final inspection.
Final Inspection
There’s no room for error when it comes to the final inspection of your newly painted kitchen cabinets. Carefully examine each cabinet door and drawer front to ensure that the paint has been applied evenly and that there are no drips, sags, or visible brush strokes. Check for any areas that may need additional touch-ups and make sure that the paint has dried to a smooth and uniform finish.
Inspection: A thorough final inspection will guarantee a professional-looking result that will enhance the overall appearance of your kitchen. Take your time during this step to make sure that your cabinets look flawless from every angle.
Add Finishing Touches
Many finishing touches can elevate the look of your newly painted kitchen cabinets. Two key areas to focus on are installing new knobs and updating cabinet lighting.
Install New Knobs
Clearly, installing new knobs on your kitchen cabinets can instantly transform the overall appearance. Choose knobs that complement the new color and style of your cabinets for a cohesive look. Whether you prefer sleek and modern designs or classic and intricate styles, the right knobs can add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen.
Update Cabinet Lighting
Now, consider updating your cabinet lighting to enhance the ambiance and functionality of your kitchen space. LED strip lights or recessed lighting under the cabinets can provide ample illumination for food preparation and cooking tasks. Additionally, adding dimmable lights can create a cozy atmosphere for entertaining or relaxing in the evening.
For instance, installing motion sensor lights inside your cabinets can make it easier to find what you need without fumbling in the dark. These convenient lights turn on automatically when you open the cabinet doors, ensuring you can effortlessly locate your dishes, pots, and pans.
Inspect and Test
Check for Durability
Many of your kitchen cabinets may have already seen years of wear and tear. Before beginning the painting process, ensure that the cabinets are still durable enough to hold paint. Look for any signs of damage such as water stains, cracks, or peeling veneer. Addressing these issues before painting will help ensure a smoother and more long-lasting finish.
Test Functionality
One important aspect to consider when upgrading your kitchen cabinets is to make sure they are still fully functional. Check that all doors and drawers open and close smoothly, and that hinges and handles are secure. Ensure that there are no issues with the cabinet structure that could hinder their functionality once painted.
Clearly, you want a finished product that not only looks great but also functions well in your daily use. Taking the time to inspect and test your cabinets before painting will help you identify and address any underlying issues that could affect the final result.
To ensure that your kitchen cabinets are ready for a fresh coat of Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint, thorough inspection and testing are key steps in the preparation process. By checking for durability and testing functionality, you can address any issues before painting, resulting in a beautiful and long-lasting finish.
Seal the Deal
Apply Clear Coat
Clear coating your freshly painted cabinets is an imperative step in the process to ensure durability and protect the finish. Choose a high-quality clear coat that is compatible with the Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint you used. Applying a clear coat will provide an extra layer of protection against scratches, stains, and moisture, extending the life of your newly transformed cabinets.
Final Protection
On top of applying a clear coat, you can also consider adding hardware such as knobs and handles to your cabinets for an extra layer of protection. Not only do these additions enhance the aesthetic appeal of your cabinets, but they also serve a functional purpose by minimizing direct contact with the painted surface. This added protection can help maintain the integrity of your cabinets over time, ensuring they continue to look their best for years to come.
Seal the deal by following these final steps to protect your newly painted kitchen cabinets. By applying a clear coat and adding hardware, you can enjoy a refreshed look for your cabinets that is not only visually appealing but also built to last. With these finishing touches, you can confidently showcase your upgraded kitchen to friends and family, knowing that your cabinets are now both beautiful and well-protected.
Clean Up
Now that you’ve finished painting your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint, it’s time to clean up. Proper clean up ensures that your tools remain in good condition and that you dispose of any waste properly.
Dispose of Waste
Keep your work area tidy by disposing of any waste materials, such as used paint cans, brushes, and rags, in the proper manner. You can contact your local recycling center or hazardous waste disposal facility for guidance on how to correctly dispose of these items. This not only keeps your space organized but also helps protect the environment.
Clean Tools
Little maintenance of your painting tools can go a long way in prolonging their lifespan. After you’ve finished painting, clean your brushes, rollers, and trays thoroughly with soap and water. Make sure to remove all traces of paint from the bristles and rollers to prevent them from hardening and becoming unusable. Properly cleaning your tools also ensures that they are ready for your next painting project.
Clean tools are necessary for achieving a professional finish on your kitchen cabinets. By taking the time to clean your brushes and rollers after each use, you’ll prolong their life and ensure smooth, even application of paint on your next project.
Final Inspection
Many homeowners rush through the final inspection of their newly painted kitchen cabinets, eager to see the finished product. However, taking the time to thoroughly check for perfection is necessary to ensure a professional-looking result that will stand the test of time.
Check for Perfection
Perfection is key when it comes to painting kitchen cabinets. Inspect each cabinet door and drawer front for any drips, streaks, or uneven coverage. Check the edges and corners for any missed spots or paint buildup. Make sure the paint has dried completely before assessing the final finish.
Make Adjustments
Final inspection is the time to make any necessary adjustments to your freshly painted cabinets. If you spot any imperfections, such as brush marks or uneven sheen, you can lightly sand and touch up those areas for a flawless finish. Pay attention to details like hardware installation and alignment to ensure everything looks polished and cohesive.
The final inspection stage of painting your kitchen cabinets is crucial for ensuring a professional and flawless finish. Make sure to take your time and pay attention to detail during this step to achieve the best results possible.
Add Decorations
Install Shelf Liners
Little details can make a big difference when it comes to upgrading your kitchen cabinets. One easy way to add a pop of color or pattern while also protecting your shelves is by installing shelf liners. These liners not only enhance the visual appeal of your cabinets but also help to keep them clean and free from scratches or stains. You can choose from a variety of options such as adhesive liners, non-adhesive mats, or even fabric liners to suit your personal style.
Add Cabinet Decals
If you want to take your cabinet decorations to the next level, consider adding cabinet decals. These decals are an inexpensive way to add a custom touch to your kitchen cabinets. Whether you prefer floral designs, geometric patterns, or inspirational quotes, there are endless options to choose from. Installing cabinet decals is a simple and quick process that can instantly transform the look of your cabinets.
Installing cabinet decals can be a fun DIY project that allows you to personalize your kitchen space. You can easily find decals that match your style and color scheme, making it easy to create a cohesive look throughout your kitchen. Whether you want to add a subtle accent or make a bold statement, cabinet decals are a versatile option for upgrading your cabinets.
Take a Step Back
All your hard work has finally paid off as you stand back and admire the transformation your kitchen cabinets have undergone. This step is crucial as it allows you to appreciate the effort you’ve put in and see the overall impact of the new coat of Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint on your cabinets.
Admire Your Work
To truly appreciate the results of your labor, take a moment to admire your newly painted kitchen cabinets. Notice how the fresh color enhances the overall look of your kitchen and how the cabinets now have a professional finish that adds value to your home. Stand back and revel in the beautiful transformation you’ve achieved.
Take Photos
To capture the before and after transformation of your kitchen cabinets, take photos from different angles. There’s no better way to showcase the stunning upgrade than with photographic evidence of the remarkable change. Snap pictures of the cabinets with different lighting conditions to see how the color appears in various settings.
For instance, you can take close-up shots to highlight the smooth finish achieved with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint or wide-angle shots to show the overall impact on your kitchen space. These photos will not only serve as a reminder of your hard work but also as inspiration for future DIY projects.
Share Your Results
Unlike traditional kitchen cabinet painting methods, using Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint can give you a professional finish that will make your cabinets look brand new. After completing the painting process, you’ll be excited to share your results with others. Here are some tips on how to showcase your newly painted kitchen cabinets:
Post on Social Media
Post before and after photos of your kitchen cabinets on social media platforms like Instagram or Facebook to show off your hard work. You can also share tips and tricks you learned along the way to help others who may be considering a similar project. Don’t forget to use relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience and inspire others to upgrade their cabinets too.
Share with Friends
Some of your friends may be looking to update their kitchen cabinets as well. Share your experience with them and let them know how using Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint can give them professional-looking results. You can even offer to help them with their own cabinet painting project, using your newfound expertise to guide them through the process.
Friends and family members will be impressed by the transformation of your kitchen cabinets and may even ask for your advice on how to achieve a similar look in their own homes. By sharing your results with others, you not only showcase your DIY skills but also inspire those around you to take on their own home improvement projects.
Maintenance Tips
Clean Regularly
Not cleaning your kitchen cabinets regularly can lead to a build-up of dirt and grime, making them look dull and dirty. To maintain the beauty of your cabinets, it’s important to clean them regularly. You can simply wipe down the cabinets with a damp cloth and a mild detergent to remove any dirt or grease. Make sure to dry the cabinets immediately to prevent any water damage.
- Wipe down your cabinets with a damp cloth and mild detergent regularly.
- Dry the cabinets immediately after cleaning to prevent water damage.
Though cleaning your cabinets regularly may seem like a simple task, it plays a significant role in keeping them looking as good as new for years to come.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals
Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your kitchen cabinets as they can damage the finish and the wood. Stick to gentle cleaning solutions such as mild soap and water to clean your cabinets effectively without causing any harm. Harsh chemicals can strip the paint or finish off your cabinets, leaving them looking dull and damaged.
Clean your cabinets with a mixture of mild soap and water to keep them looking clean and fresh without causing any damage to the finish.
Warranty Information
Check Manufacturer
Many kitchen cabinet manufacturers provide warranties for their products, ensuring quality and durability. Before applying Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint to your cabinets, it’s crucial to check with the manufacturer regarding their warranty policy. Some manufacturers may have specific guidelines or restrictions when it comes to painting or refinishing their cabinets, which could affect the validity of your warranty.
Understand Coverage
You’ll want to thoroughly understand what the warranty covers and for how long. Some warranties may only cover defects in materials or workmanship, while others may also include coverage for finishes or coatings. By familiarizing yourself with the warranty coverage, you can ensure that you are following the necessary steps to maintain the validity of the warranty.
There’s often a requirement to follow specific maintenance and care instructions to keep the warranty valid. Failure to adhere to these guidelines could result in the warranty being voided. Understanding the coverage will also help you know what to do in case you need to file a warranty claim in the future.
To wrap up
Ultimately, upgrading your kitchen cabinets with Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint in 10 steps can transform the look and feel of your entire kitchen. By following the detailed process outlined in this guide, you can achieve professional-looking results that will enhance the beauty and functionality of your space. Remember to take your time, follow each step carefully, and enjoy the rewarding experience of giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh new look.
So, go ahead and gather your supplies, prepare your cabinets, and start painting with confidence. With Benjamin Moore Advance Interior Paint and these 10 steps, you can create a kitchen that you’ll love coming home to every day. Your newly painted cabinets will not only add value to your home but also reflect your personal style and attention to detail. Upgrade your kitchen cabinets today and enjoy the results for years to come!
