What does it actually cost to paint your kitchen cabinets white (or any color), and how do you know if it’s worth the expense and time?
DIY vs. a Professional Paint Job, Explained
Are you dreaming of a bright, fresh kitchen? Many of my clients want to transform their kitchens but aren’t ready to take on the cost and commitment of a full remodel. Painting your kitchen cabinets white (or another color) it’s not just cost-effective but also an easy way to breathe new life into your space, making it feel bigger, brighter, and more modern. Let’s dive into the details to help you make an informed decision on the best way to get a new look. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast ready to pick up a paintbrush or someone considering hiring professional cabinet painters for that flawless finish, read on for all of the details on how much it will cost to paint your cabinets white, or any other color you might be considering.
The Benefits of Painting Kitchen Cabinets White
Before diving into the costs, let’s look at why painting your kitchen cabinets white is such a popular option:
Creates a Spacious Look: White cabinets make a kitchen feel bigger and brighter, reflecting more light and creating a sense of openness.
Boosts Resale Value: If you’re planning to sell your home, having freshly painted white cabinets is a great way to make your kitchen more attractive to potential buyers, as neutral tones appeal to a broad audience.
The cost of painting kitchen cabinets depends on whether you opt for a DIY paint job or hire professional painters.
DIY Costs: If you choose to tackle the project yourself, expect to spend between $200 to $600 on paint and supplies. This figure can vary based on the type of paint you choose and the size of your kitchen. Remember, while DIY can be cost-effective, it demands significant time (30 to 60 hours) for preparation and actual painting, including priming and applying multiple coats.
Professional Costs: The cost to hire a professional painting contractor ranges from $75 to $150 per cabinet, so if you have 10 cabinets, you’re looking at $750 to $1,500. However, this cost varies based on factors like cabinet size, intricacy of design, and the region you live in. On average, professional painters charge $25 to $75 per hour. This can really add up based on the square footage of your space. For a medium to large kitchen (up to 200 square feet), the total cost can range from $3,000 to $10,000 for the overall cost.
The size of the kitchen, number of cabinets, and type of paint all influence the final price, but hiring a professional often results in a cleaner, more durable finish. It’s particularly important if you’re aiming for an increase in home value or a high-quality, long-lasting outcome.
The paint quality and type of paint you choose impact both cost and longevity:
Latex/Acrylic Paint ($20-$60 per gallon): Water-resistant, easy to clean, but not ideal for wood cabinets as it can peel over time.
Oil-Based Paint ($30-$70 per gallon): More durable than water-based paints and provides a glossier finish, but has a strong odor and takes longer to dry.
Alkyd Paint ($40-$90 per gallon): A hybrid paint that offers the durability of oil-based paint with the ease of water cleanup.
White paint generally requires fewer coats than darker paints, making it a cost-effective choice. For a professional-quality finish, it’s a really good idea to invest in high-quality paint, as this can lead to better coverage, durability, and a smoother finish. Enamel paints are also recommended for cabinets because they self-level, reducing visible brush strokes.
The condition and type of cabinets significantly affect the prep work required and the cost:
Solid Wood Cabinets: While they are durable, they may have grain patterns (such as oak cabinets), and imperfections, requiring thorough sanding, filling and priming.
MDF or Laminate Cabinets: These materials generally have smooth surfaces, reducing the prep work and the number of coats needed. However, they require special primers to ensure paint adhesion.
Intricate Designs: Cabinets with moldings, beveled doors, glass inserts, or raised panels demand more time and skill, adding to the labor cost.
Cabinet Condition: Cabinets that are in good shape require minimal prep, while those with peeling paint, water damage, or grease buildup need extensive cleaning, sanding, and sometimes repairs before painting. If your cabinets are in poor shape, it may be more cost-effective to replace them with new cabinets.
3. Painting Method
Brush and Paint Roller: A cost-effective method suitable for a DIY project.
Spray Painting: This method offers a smooth, even finish and can cover narrow crevices efficiently. However, it’s costlier due to the equipment needed and the skill required. Spraying uses about 30% more paint than brushing, increasing material costs.
Most professional painters will use a combination of spraying and brushing to get the best finish, especially for hard-to-reach areas.
Two-tone kitchen cabinets in a combination of white and black with a warm wood floor create interest in this space.
4. Size of Your Kitchen
The size of your kitchen plays a significant role in overall costs. Obviously, a small kitchen with fewer cabinets is less costly than a larger kitchen. On average, the cost per square foot ranges from $3 to $10. For a larger kitchen, you’ll need more paint, supplies, and labor, which can really add up.
5. Site Preparation
Proper site preparation is critical to a smooth painting process. It involves:
Removing Cabinet Doors & Hardware: This prevents paint drips and provides better coverage.
Protecting Surfaces: Drop cloths, painter’s tape, and masking paper are used to shield countertops, floors, and appliances.
Cleaning & Sanding Cabinets: To ensure proper paint adhesion, cabinets need to be cleaned of grease and sanded to create a smooth surface.
Whether you do this yourself or leave it to a professional, expect to spend time and resources ensuring the space is ready for painting.
Labor Costs and Hiring Professional Painters
Labor makes up 80% to 85% of the total cost when hiring professional painters. Painters charge based on factors like:
Region & Location: Urban areas have higher labor costs compared to suburban or rural regions.
Cabinet Design & Layout: Intricate designs with tight corners or hard-to-reach areas increase the labor cost.
Accessibility: Kitchens with a lot of tight spaces or complex cabinet layouts take longer to paint.
Cost per Service: Professionals may charge by the door, drawer, or linear foot, with an average of $100 per door and $25 per drawer. A medium-sized kitchen can range from $3,000 to $6,500.
Cost of Supplies & Tools
For DIYers, the following supplies are essential:
Primer: $35-$50 per gallon. Essential for sealing surfaces and ensuring paint adhesion.
Paint: $20-$70 per gallon, depending on quality and type.
Brushes & Rollers: $10-$15 for brushes and $8-$20 for roller kits.
Sandpaper, Scraper, Tape, Drop Cloths: Additional supplies like sandpaper ($2-$5), scraper ($6-$8), painter’s masking tape ($5-$10), and drop cloths ($3-$10) add to the total cost.
If renting a sprayer, expect to pay $40-$100 per day, depending on the model.
DIY vs. Professional Painting: Pros and Cons
Should you go DIY or hire a professional? Here are some important things to consider:
DIY Advantages:
Cost Savings: Potentially save thousands of dollars in labor.
Control Over Process: You can work at your own pace and manage each step of the process.
DIY Drawbacks:
Time-Consuming: From preparation to painting and reassembling the kitchen, it can take 3-5 days or more.
Skill Level: Requires some knowledge of painting techniques and the use of tools like sanders, sprayers, and rollers.
Professional Advantages:
Quality & Durability: Professionals have experience and tools to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting finish.
Time-Saving: The job is usually completed faster, reducing the inconvenience of a “construction zone” kitchen.
Professional Drawbacks:
Higher Costs: Labor is a significant part of the cost.
Tips for Saving Money on Cabinet Painting
Buy Paint During Sales: Look for deals around holidays like Memorial Day or Black Friday.
Brush & Roll Instead of the Spray Paint Method: This saves on paint and masking supplies.
Calculate Paint Needs: Measure accurately to avoid buying excess paint.
Start with One Cabinet: Paint one cabinet door before committing to the entire kitchen to ensure you like the color and finish.
The timeline for painting kitchen cabinets largely depends on factors like the kitchen size, number of cabinets, and the painting method used (DIY or professional). On average, painting cabinets will take about 3 to 5 days from start to finish. Here’s a rough breakdown of the time allocation:
Day 1: Preparation and Cleaning: Remove cabinet doors, hardware, and shelves. Clean the cabinet surfaces thoroughly to remove grease and grime. Cover all kitchen surfaces like floors, countertops, and appliances to avoid paint splatter.
Day 2: Sanding and Priming: Sand the cabinets for a smooth surface. After sanding, apply primer to help paint adhere to the surface better. If cabinets are stained or have peeling paint, use a stain-blocking primer to prevent bleed-through.
Days 3-4: Painting: Depending on the type of paint used, apply at least two coats of paint to get full coverage and a smooth finish. Oil-based and alkyd paints require a longer drying period than latex paints.
Day 5: Reassembling and Touch-Up: Once the paint is fully dry, reattach doors, hardware, and shelves. Inspect for any touch-ups needed, and make sure to clean up any drips or uneven areas.
Pint this for easy reference:
Painting kitchen cabinets can take longer if:
Additional Coats are Needed: Starting with darker colors or wood grain may require more coats for a smooth finish.
Detailed Work is Involved: Cabinets with intricate moldings or designs require more precision and time for painting.
Using Oil-Based Paints: These take longer to dry between coats, sometimes up to 24 hours.
Professionals may be able to complete the job faster, particularly if they use a spray-painting technique. However, it’s always good to allow extra time for drying and reassembly to ensure a high-quality finish.
Many homeowners struggle with the decision to paint, refinish, or replace their kitchen cabinets altogether. While painting is a cost-effective way to update the kitchen’s look, there are scenarios where replacing the cabinets might be a better investment:
When to Paint:
The Cabinets Are in Good Condition: If your cabinets are structurally sound and made of solid wood, painting can give them a fresh look without the cost of replacement.
You Have a Tight Budget: Painting is usually about 50-75% cheaper than replacing cabinets entirely.
You Like the Cabinet Layout: If the current design and layout work well for you, painting can simply enhance what you already love.
When to Replace:
The Condition of the Cabinets Are Damaged or Worn: Cabinets with structural issues, water damage, or peeling laminate may require significant repairs that are costlier than replacing them.
You Desire a Full Kitchen Remodel: If you’re looking to change the kitchen layout, install new appliances, or completely change the style, replacing the cabinets makes more sense.
Maximizing Home Value: High-quality replacement cabinets with a full remodel will increase home resale value.
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Choosing the Right Kitchen Cabinet Paint Color & Finish
Popular Shades of White: Consider choosing warm whites for a cozier, traditional look, while cooler white paint colors and bright whites provide a crisp, modern vibe.
1. Cost-Effective: They’re more budget-friendly than traditional methods, which often require purchasing sample pots, rollers, and tag boards.
2. Easy to Use: Keep your Samplize samples on their white paper backing and you can effortlessly move them around the room to see how they look in different lighting conditions.
3. Speedy Delivery: Samplize samples arrive at your doorstep in just one day, depending on your location.
Visit the SAMPLIZE website HEREto explore their range of options.
Types of Paint Finish:
Satin Finish: Provides a soft sheen and is durable, making it great for kitchen cabinets. Satin paint hides imperfections and is easy to clean.
Semi-Gloss or Gloss Finish: Reflective, stain-resistant, and enhances the appearance of painted cabinets. However, glossy finishes highlight imperfections, so be sure to sand and prep properly.
Matte Finish: Matte paints are less common for kitchen cabinets as it shows more dirt and wear over time.
Tips for Prepping and Painting Cabinets for the Best Results
Preparation is key to achieving a professional-looking result when painting kitchen cabinets. Here are some tips to ensure a smooth process:
Prep Work Tips:
Remove Cabinet Hardware & Doors: This will help you achieve a cleaner and more professional look without paint drips or missing spots.
Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly: Grease and grime build up on kitchen cabinets over time. Use a degreaser or a solution of water and vinegar to clean them thoroughly.
Sand for a Smooth Surface: Sanding is crucial to remove the old finish and to create a rough surface that the paint can adhere to. Use fine-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) for best results.
Choose the Right Primer: Use a primer that’s compatible with your paint type. A stain-blocking primer works best for covering old paint or wood stains.
Painting Tips:
Paint the Cabinet Boxes First: Start with the cabinet frames and bases before tackling the doors and drawer faces.
Use Quality Brushes & Rollers: For the best finish, use a foam roller for flat areas and an angled brush for corners and edges.
Apply Thin Coats of Paint: Multiple thin coats of paint provide better coverage than one thick coat. Allow each coat to dry fully before applying the next.
Use a Paint Sprayer for Even Coverage: If you’re comfortable using a paint sprayer, it can save time and provide a smoother finish. Just make sure to practice on a test surface first.
Drying & Curing:
Allow ample drying time between coats and final assembly. While latex paints dry within a few hours, oil-based paints can take up to 24 hours to dry. It’s recommended to let the paint cure for at least 48 hours before reattaching doors and hardware to avoid sticking or chipping.
Additional Costs to Consider
While the cost of paint and supplies are the bulk of DIY costs, there are a few extra costs that you should keep in mind:
Painter’s Tape & Drop Cloths: $10-$20 for drop cloths and $5-$10 per roll of painter’s tape.
Cabinet Repairs or Refinishing: Damaged cabinets may require repair or refinishing before painting, costing $120 to $600 depending on the extent of damage.
Primer for Stained or Varnished Cabinets: For stained or dark cabinets, a stain-blocking primer ($35-$50 per gallon) is necessary to prevent bleed-through.
Cabinet Hardware: If you’re upgrading cabinet knobs, handles, or hinges, factor in the cost of new hardware, which can range from $2 to $10 per piece depending on style and material. There will also be additional time and labor costs involved if you’ll be using a different size or type of hardware. The new hardware will will require filling of the existing hardware holes and drilling the new holes.
Warm up to the latest color palettes to work with your Honey Oak!
The Honey Oak Collection features 15 designer-approved paint and color palettes to complement Honey Oak or Golden Oak cabinets, trim or floors.
The Long-Term Value of Painting Kitchen Cabinets White
White cabinets are a classic choice that work seamlessly with many design styles. By painting your cabinets white, you not only freshen your kitchen’s look but also potentially increase the value of your home. According to real estate experts, light and neutral-colored kitchen cabinets have broad appeal and can contribute to a better return on investment (ROI) when selling your home. A fresh coat of white paint can make older cabinets look new, clean, and modern, giving your kitchen a facelift without a full renovation.
Hi, I’m Carla
I’m glad you’re here! You are in the right place if you are feeling overwhelmed at the thought of embarking on a remodeling or interior design project. Living with an outdated home and don’t know where to start? I’ve helped families like yours update their home and create spaces that reflect what’s important to them for over 25 years.
This breakdown of the cost to paint kitchen cabinets is super helpful! It even has me thinking about the outdated cabinets at my gym and how a fresh coat of paint could make a huge difference in brightening up the space. Thanks for sharing all the details—this guide is perfect for anyone considering a cabinet refresh.
One Response
This breakdown of the cost to paint kitchen cabinets is super helpful! It even has me thinking about the outdated cabinets at my gym and how a fresh coat of paint could make a huge difference in brightening up the space. Thanks for sharing all the details—this guide is perfect for anyone considering a cabinet refresh.