Monday, April 09, 2012

Brush or Spray Kitchen Cabinets?

Kitchen cabinets that were sprayed.

Brushing a finished glaze on these new cabinets

A common question I get asked when dealing with kitchen cabinets is, "Should you spray the cabinets or brush them?" This is a tough question to answer because it really does vary and depend. Personally, I like the look of a sprayed cabinets. I've also seen a number of hand brushed cabinets that were stunning. So the decision really depends on what will make you most happy and last the longest.

Sprayed Cabinets May Take More Time

In order to spray cabinets, you really have a lot more work to do in preparation, masking and clean up. It can sometimes add a day or two to the entire project if you decide to spray your cabinets. Why? Because the best way to spray is to remove the doors, drawers and hardware and spray in a designated spray area. Then you have to mask off the area inside the house thoroughly to spray the cabinet boxes and paneling with several coats. Spraying with pre-catalyzed lacquers, acrylics or conversion varnishes creates a lot of dust, so a professional painting company has to take extra precautions to contain the dust and air quality. The end result by a company who knows what they are doing is beautiful, factory-like finished cabinets. I've seen sprayed kitchen cabinets last well over 8 years and still look almost new with the right products. 

Brushed Cabinets

When brushing cabinets, some painters will save time by brushing the boxes, doors and drawers in place. The problem with this method is that it is hard to keep paint from getting on the existing hinges. Some consumers do like the old "brush look" and if so, then brushing is the way to go. If you do decide on a brushed finish, my suggestion is to go a step further and remove all the hardware just like you were going to have them sprayed. Then use a really good acrylic enamel such as Benjamin Moore Advantage. A professional brushman, as I like to call a painter who is a craftsman with a brush in his hand,  can brush cabinets beautifully, especially if the doors and drawers are sitting on saw horses and can air dry. The brushman can then come into the house and hand brush all the cabinet panels and boxes/trim. Again, with the right product and an incredible brushman, hand brushed cabinets look fabulous. I typically recommend this method if you have an older home and live in areas like NW DC, Bethesda, Baker Park near Downtown Frederick and so on. The cost to brush cabinets from a professional might save you 20-25% vs spraying them as it requires a bit less masking and covering of the area (far less dust).  

So in the end, it depends on what you like. I'd suggest asking the painter for a sample of both so you can make an informed decision. Beware of a company who will tell you the only way is brushing or spray. I've seen some pretty awful brushed and sprayed jobs!