Cabinet Painting FAQ
Common questions about kitchen cabinet painting and refinishing. Spray finishes, costs, timelines, and what makes a professional result.
- Should cabinets be sprayed or brushed?
- Both have their place. A brushed finish offers a more traditional, hand-applied character and can look exceptional when done with precision. A sprayed finish allows for a seamless, refined surface and enables the use of advanced 2K coating systems for maximum durability and consistency. The right approach depends on the finish you want to achieve — we guide that decision based on the space and the result you're after.
- How much does cabinet painting cost?
- A standard Vancouver kitchen with 20 to 30 doors typically costs between $4,000 and $8,000. The price depends on door count, door style, condition, and the coating system. We use Italian coatings from Renner and ALCEA that cost more than hardware-store paint but deliver a superior, lasting finish.
- How long does cabinet painting take?
- Most kitchen cabinet projects take 5 to 8 business days. Doors are removed and sprayed off-site while we prep and paint the frames in your kitchen. You will have limited kitchen access during the frame work, but full access returns as soon as doors go back on.
- Can you paint laminate or thermofoil cabinets?
- Yes, with the right prep and primer system. Laminate and thermofoil need bonding primers that adhere to slick surfaces. Not every painter knows how to do this correctly. We have refinished hundreds of laminate and thermofoil kitchens with results that hold up to daily use.
- What paint do you use on cabinets?
- We use Renner and ALCEA Italian wood coatings. These are professional-grade products designed for furniture and cabinetry, not wall paint repurposed for cabinets. They cure harder, resist scratches better, and produce a smoother finish than standard latex or alkyd paints.
- How durable is painted cabinet finish?
- With Italian coatings and proper prep, a professional spray finish lasts 10 to 15 years of daily kitchen use. The cured coating resists scratches, moisture, and household cleaners. Our clients regularly tell us their cabinets look as good 5 years later as they did on day one.
- Will I have access to my kitchen during the project?
- Partially. When we are working on the cabinet frames, your kitchen access is limited for 1 to 2 days. During that time, you can use your sink and appliances with some coordination. Once the frames are done, full kitchen access returns while doors finish curing off-site.
- Is cabinet painting worth it compared to replacing?
- For most kitchens, yes. Professional cabinet refinishing costs roughly half of full replacement and takes days instead of weeks. Your existing layout stays the same, which avoids plumbing, countertop and floor disruption. The result is a kitchen that looks and feels new at a fraction of the cost and timeline.