A cabinet finish belongs in the room’s overall design. We assess the wood, existing coating, and surface condition, then review the intended color, grain, sheen, and care requirements.
Understand the surface
Solid wood can often be stained or painted, depending on its condition and coating history. Real wood veneer has grain too and may be suitable for staining, but its thickness limits sanding. MDF does not have natural wood grain and generally calls for a compatible painted finish.
A sample area or door helps establish what preparation is practical. Previously coated, damaged, or altered surfaces can require additional work.
Choose the look
Stain allows the wood's grain and color variations to remain part of the design. Paint offers an opaque color, although grain may still show unless filling is included in the scope. Review a sample alongside your counters, flooring, and room lighting.
Compare complete scopes
A stain change can involve substantial removal of the old finish. Painting may require cleaning, repairs, sanding, priming, and a compatible topcoat. Neither approach is always simpler or less expensive.
The estimate should identify which doors, drawer fronts, frames, and cabinet interiors are included, along with the proposed application and curing guidance. Ask how access to the kitchen will be managed.
Choose a coating system
The written scope should identify the preparation, primer, and topcoat selected for your cabinets, along with application and care guidance. Review a sample before approving the finish.
Bring the finish into the design
A single bank of cabinetry or a complete kitchen deserves a considered finish. Explore cabinet refinishing or tell us what you would like to change. We assess the cabinets and define the preparation and coating suited to the work.
Our project scopes use the PCA Industry Standards where applicable. See how we define preparation, samples, and finished surfaces.