Expert: Greg Scholl - 5/13/2010

Question
QUESTION: Hi,

I acquired a very nice set of oak cabinets.  Currently they have some kind of whitewash or pickling finish to them.  I took one of the extra doors and i sanded the finish off.  It came off very well and the sanding made the door smooth.  I actually like it that way because i didn't like the way the grain showed through.  So what i decided to do is to paint the cabinets after i sand them. Can you tell me what steps i need to take to paint them.  What type of paint do i use.  I was told to use oil base paint. Where can you buy oil base paint these days. Should i roll, brush or spray the paint on.  Thank you for your help.

ANSWER: If this is just a small kitchen, you can use a good spray paint like Krylon, as spraying will always give one the smoothest finish, (these are actually a solvent based paint that sprays very well unlike thicker, waterbased paints), oil paints are pretty much gone now due to VOC regulations, but the new breed of water based paints are a lot better than they used to be.A thorough cleaning with a solvent that will cut grease is essential before you sand, and another wipe down before priming.A good primer is also essential as a bonding coat, and a barrier against any residual grease, oils, etc.. An Acrylic Latex enamel from Benjamin Moore, Behr, or similar, designed for woodwork, trim, etc., would be the next best thing.Always buy the best paint you can, and use the best tools you can, a cheap paint brush will not give the same results as a good quality brush. Good painting technique is imperative, and painting in a well lit,clean, dust free environment will go a long way towards getting a professional looking, and wearing finish. The small white foam trim rollers are capable of a nice smooth finish, and there's an additive called Floetrol that you can add to the paint to increase it's ability to 'flow out" and level better.That and a high quality 1 1/2" angled sash brush are my favorite tools for painting furniture and cabinets... Shoddy or careless technique will give you a crappy paint job, good technique, tools and materials will give you a good job, but there is a learning curve to become a truly good painter.....hope that helps a little- post back if need be- regards- Greg

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

QUESTION: Thank you very much for your response.  One other question.  Would I need some type of top coat or sealant after the painting is done?

Answer
Hi Robin, you could apply a clear coat to the painted finish, and it would likely add durability and longevity. A waterborne product like Vermont Natural's wold be a good choice, or a waterborne catalyzed Acrylic urethane.Consumer grade waterbornes, (like Minwax Polycrylic and the like) will not offer enough durability.The catalyzed finishes and the Vermont Natural coating are approximately 4 times harder than these Consumer grade coatings.the real problem ...again...is that it's very difficult to apply these without spray equipment, and quite a high degree of skill and experience.....these finishes do not brush well, and a roller will not apply them smoothly....If you do decide to attempt this finish schedule, (or any), do a sample finish, from start to finish, on a scrap or better yet a cabinet door, (you can likely get one from a remodeler or kitchen refacer),so you'll know where you're going, and how you will get there.....without committing to the actual cabinets.Producing a professional looking and wearing finish on a kitchen full of cabinetry is a demanding job, requiring a high degree of skill and experience, and good techniques and materials.....Hope that helps a little more- post back if need be- regards- Greg