Updating Old Kitchen Cabinets: A Personal Experience
When my husband and I bought our first home, we were excited to have a space that was truly our own. However, the kitchen was a different story. The cabinets were old, outdated, and in desperate need of a makeover. We didn’t want to spend a fortune on brand new cabinets, so we decided to take matters into our own hands and update them ourselves. Here’s what we learned:
How To Update Old Kitchen Cabinets
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Remove all cabinet doors and hardware.
2. Sand down the surface of the cabinets to create a smooth surface for painting or staining.
3. Fill in any holes or cracks with wood filler and let dry completely.
4. Prime the cabinets with a high-quality primer, allowing it to dry completely.
5. Paint or stain the cabinets with your desired color or finish.
6. Reattach the doors and hardware.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas
1. Consider adding new hardware for a fresh look.
2. Use a paint sprayer for a professional finish.
3. Opt for a two-tone look by painting the upper cabinets a different color than the lower cabinets.
4. Add glass inserts to cabinet doors for a modern look.
5. Use chalk paint for a shabby chic look.
6. Replace cabinet doors altogether with glass or open shelving.
7. Update the backsplash for a cohesive look.
8. Add lighting underneath cabinets for a functional and stylish touch.
9. Install pull-out shelves for easier access to items inside cabinets.
10. Don’t forget to update the hardware on drawers as well.
Pros and Cons
Updating old kitchen cabinets can be a great way to save money and give your kitchen a fresh look. However, it can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive project. Additionally, depending on the age and condition of your cabinets, they may not be suitable for updating and may need to be replaced altogether.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I am extremely happy with how our updated kitchen cabinets turned out. We opted for a two-tone look with white upper cabinets and navy blue lower cabinets, and added new brushed gold hardware for a modern touch. The process was time-consuming, but not overly difficult. The end result was well worth it and has made a huge difference in the overall look and feel of our kitchen. My suggestion would be to do your research and make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies before starting the project.
Question & Answer
Q: Can I update my cabinets without sanding them down?
A: While it is possible to paint over cabinets without sanding them down, it is not recommended. Sanding down the surface creates a smooth and even surface for the primer and paint to adhere to, resulting in a more professional-looking finish.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to update kitchen cabinets?
A: The length of time it takes to update kitchen cabinets depends on the size of your kitchen and the extent of the updates you are making. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks.
Q: Do I need to hire a professional to update my cabinets?
A: It is possible to update your cabinets yourself with the right tools and supplies. However, if you are not comfortable with DIY projects or have older cabinets that may need more extensive updates, it may be worth considering hiring a professional.