Expert: Greg Scholl - 12/6/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have maple cabinets with catalyzed finish in a cider color (light pinkish tan) I would like to darken the cabinets a bit, nothing dramatic. What exactly is a catalyzed finish, why does it pose so many refinishing problems, and is there a way to darken or tone or color wash or glaze or whatever, my cabinets without too much fuss? Any information will be greatly appreciated.

ANSWER: Hi Myrna, these finishes are cross linking finishes that are somewhat like an epoxy. They are mixed before applying and then they go through a chemical reaction after application, that makes them very hard and very resistant to scratching, abrasion, chemicals, moisture, etc. They are designed to last 20-30 years with minimal maintenance, and this makes them very hard to remove, and too hard and resistant to coating over them. If one does want to do that, you have to use the same type of products and prep the surface properly, and this is just not the realm of the novice. They could possibly be toned, but that would have to be custom mixed and sprayed, and if you could find someone to do it, it would likely cost a lot to do, as it couldn't be done in the house with the cabinets installed. I would save your pennies for refacing or replacing if I were you...it just makes more sense. Hope that helps- post back if need be- regards- Greg

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thanks for the quick response. I am now beginning to wonder if I do indeed have a catalyzed finish as told. The cabinets are only 7 years old and have been treated very well, only dusted with dry rag and spot cleaned with mild soapy water and dried immediately. However, the finish on the cabinets closest to the stove has become rough and dull. No one here but hubby and I and we don't cook that much and are careful to keep pots on back burners with vent hood going the entire time. Is there a way to tell for sure if the finish is catalyzed?

Answer
Anything factory made in the last 20 years or so is probably this type of finish. The damage you describe sounds like it could be caused by steam, do you take tea regularly? The best way is to call the manufacturer, and that should be stamped or branded or labeled somewhere, usually inside a drawer. Even if it isn't, what you're proposing, a color change over an existing, clear coated finish,  would likely be a bad idea for a few reasons, not the least of which is the fact that the prep work alone would be a huge job, and this type of custom color and finish work is typically not something a novice could do.  Creating a deep, rich, durable, furniture grade finish that matches across a whole set of cabinets is an art, and a skill that requires some serious expertise. Regards- Greg