Expert: Greg Scholl - 2/27/2011

Question
QUESTION: A few years ago I painted our MDF kitchen cabinets with oil based primer and paint.  I've realized since that I should have used some kind of sealer because it is very difficult to keep them clean (they're white).  We have to scrub hard to remove all the marks and spills.  What can I do now?

ANSWER: Hi Dianne, the only choice would be to prep them well, and paint them again and then clear coat them. The newer breed of waterborne Acrylic Urethanes are much more durable and easier to apply, but it does take a little practice to apply them well with a brush. I like Zar's Ultramax, which is available in a wipe on squeeze bottle too, but I prefer the normal formula in the can, (it can be wiped on to), and using a good synthetic brush and a disposable paint pad for the large flat areas....feel free to post back- regards- Greg

http://www.amazon.com/United-Gilsonite-Lab-36112-Polyurethane/dp/B001CESLUE/ref=

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QUESTION: What should I paint them with before applying the polyurethane?  I keep wondering if I should spray the paint on them since even as hard as I worked on them I can see a lot of brush strokes.  Thanks so much for your help!!

Answer
I was implying using the same paint as before, thinking you wanted to just renew them and add the clear coat....the quality of the paint and the tools and technique you use to apply the paint makes a big difference. I really like Benjamin Moore paints, and their new "Aura" is a good choice in Satin or Eggshell finish, (the final gloss level will be determined by the clear coat). There is also an additive for paint called Floetrol, that will improve the paints ability to "flow out" and level better, helping to eliminate brush marks.The new foam trim rollers are also great for the flat surfaces. There is a difference in an expensive brush and a cheap brush, as well, and your technique needs to be top notch, using even brush strokes, not over working the paint, and "tipping off", as you apply it, working quickly yet purposefully in an environment that won't dry the paint too fast. (no breezes, not too warm, etc).There is a learning curve to painting woodwork and cabinets well. Once you have an older painted surface with lots of texture and/or brush marks, it's difficult to remove those flaws, unfortunately...ALWAYS do a test piece, (maybe a single door or drawer front) from stat to finish so you know where you're going and how to get there...