Expert: Eileen Cronk - 3/9/2009

Question
Hi Eileen, My wife are wondering is there any good paint
you would recomend to go over these white-washed.We really
would like to strip them but we know the work that's involved.We were quated $7k for new oak cabinets and half
that to have someone strip and stain them.We have grainte
counters and are in a little confused which way to go with
this. Any suggestions?  Jerry

Answer
Hi Jerry
Nice to hear from you.
The only paint I would ever consider putting on kitchen cabinets is Melamine paint.
There is lots of material online about this paint.
And I can well understand your confusion.
If these were anything other than white washed oak I would try to talk you out of painting but this whitewash often will not come out of the oak pores.
But you can end all doubts about painting being the right thing by doing a test.
Get a small can of MC paint stripper.
Remove a door to the garage to work on. Follow directions on label.
Completely strip the door. See if the finish and whitewash comes off.
Who knows it just might. Then try you stain choice.
Whatever way the test turns out at least there will be no confusion as to the best course to take.
And you know Jerry, this may be all it takes for you to decide to do the stripping job yourself. Its a big job. Patience is required but its do-able.
Get back to me if needed.
Regards
Eileen