Cabinetry Contractor Tips: Types of Cabinet Finishes

Some of us have spent a lot more time in our homes and specifically in our kitchens over the last year. Which has caused many to think of ways to improve their spaces. You may find that new paint, new backsplash or a new countertop won’t quite be the big enough change you want to see in your kitchen. Before taking the leap of completely replacing your kitchen cabinets, consider various ways to upgrade the kitchen cabinets you already have and if they can be improved what types of cabinet finishes exist. 

Painted Finish cabinets offer many color options but can cover up the natural characteristics found in the wood. Many painted cabinets include a varnish top coat for added durability. They can be painted to perfectly match the shade of other items in your home for a cohesive look. However one drawback to this technique is it is likely to chip, show dents, and the pain can rub off in high use areas.

Stained Finish cabinets change the color of the wood to enhance the grain, or to protect cabinets from damage. Staining can be done underneath another finishing technique to create an alternate final look. Using a stained finish can limit your color options compared to painted cabinets. Different areas of the wood retain different amounts of stain, giving each piece a unique look.

Glazed Finish cabinets can change the color and texture of cabinetry, when applying faux-finishes. A glazed finish is applied on top of either a paint or stain to accentuate the details in the specific type of wood of the cabinetry. This technique adds visual depth and interest to already stained cabinets. The color is semi-transparent or totally transparent.

Instead of completely replacing kitchen cabinets outright, some people look at options where they can make changes to existing cabinets and doors with the assistance of an artificial surface. Thermofoil, and Laminate are materials which can be added to the surface of wood or MDF doors. Of these options Thermofoil is the most affordable. A thin malleable layer of foil-like material is heated and vacuum sealed onto the cabinets’ surface. This technique provides so many options for colors and patterns. With Thermofoil, generally the backside of the cabinet doors will be a colored laminate that will not match the rest of the door. Laminate is a material that is made from resin and paper being pressed together with heat. Many quality cabinets use Laminate covered plywood for the body of the cabinets. A quality Laminate will hold to the wood without peeling. A cabinet door with laminate surfacing will last longer than a cabinet door that is surfaced with Thermofoil.

At Handcraft Inc we are well known for our high-end millwork in the Seattle region. We do custom cabinetry and other woodshop services to help general contractors, cabinetry contractors and the public with their individual woodworking needs. Handcraft Inc, offers free consultation to help you upgrade and customize your kitchen cabinets. Contact us today for a free estimate to help realize the kitchen of your dreams.