Cabinet Refinishing: Complete Guide

What is Cabinet Refinishing?

Cabinet refinishing involves stripping or sanding the existing finish from your cabinets and applying a new stain, paint, or clear coat. Unlike refacing (which replaces doors and applies veneer) or replacing (buying all new cabinets), refinishing works with your existing cabinets.

Refinishing vs Refacing vs Replacing

When to Refinish Cabinets

Refinishing is ideal when:

• Cabinet boxes and doors are structurally sound
• You want to change color (dark to light or vice versa)
• The current finish is worn, faded, or outdated
• You're happy with the current layout and door style
• Budget is a consideration (30-50% of replacement cost)

When NOT to Refinish

• Cabinets are water-damaged, warped, or structurally failing
• You want to change the door style
• The layout doesn't work for your needs
• Cabinets are particleboard (doesn't refinish well)

Cabinet Refinishing: Step-by-Step Process

Here's the complete cabinet refinishing process professionals use:

Step 1: Remove Doors, Drawers & Hardware

1. Number each door and drawer with painter's tape (location system)
2. Remove all hinges and hardware
3. Keep hardware organized in labeled bags
4. Remove doors from cabinet boxes

Step 2: Clean All Surfaces

Thorough cleaning is critical for proper adhesion:

• Clean with TSP (trisodium phosphate) or degreaser
• Pay special attention to areas near stove and sink
• Remove all grease, grime, and residue
• Rinse thoroughly and let dry completely (24 hours)

Step 3: Strip the Old Finish (If Necessary)

When to strip vs sand:

• Strip if: Multiple layers, peeling/failing finish, going from paint to stain
• Sand only if: Single layer, good condition, painting over paint

Stripping process:

1. Apply chemical stripper per manufacturer directions
2. Let sit for specified time (usually 15-30 minutes)
3. Scrape off bubbled finish with plastic scraper
4. Apply second coat if needed
5. Neutralize stripper per manufacturer instructions

Step 4: Sand Surfaces

Sanding progression for refinishing:

1. For bare wood: Start with 80-100 grit, progress to 120, finish with 180-220
2. For repainting: Light sand with 180-220 grit for tooth (adhesion)
3. Sand in direction of wood grain
4. Use sanding sponges for detailed profiles
5. Remove all sanding dust with tack cloth before finishing

Step 5: Fill Holes and Repair

• Fill nail holes, dents, and scratches with wood filler
• Let dry completely, then sand smooth
• For larger damage, use two-part wood filler for durability

Step 6: Apply Primer (If Painting)

Best primers for cabinet refinishing:

• Shellac-based (BIN): Best for stain blocking, difficult surfaces
• Bonding primer: Essential for laminate or glossy surfaces
• High-build primer: Helps smooth imperfections

Step 7: Apply Finish Coats

For paint:

1. Apply thin, even coats with brush, roller, or sprayer
2. Let dry between coats per manufacturer instructions (usually 24 hours for cabinets)
3. Light sand with 320-400 grit between coats
4. Apply 2-3 coats for durability

For stain:

1. Apply stain with brush or cloth
2. Let penetrate 5-15 minutes
3. Wipe off excess with clean cloth
4. Let dry 24 hours
5. Apply clear topcoat (polyurethane or lacquer)

Step 8: Reassemble

1. Let final coat cure (2-3 days minimum, 1-2 weeks ideal)
2. Install new or existing hardware
3. Reattach doors using numbering system
4. Adjust hinges as needed

Best Products for Cabinet Refinishing

Best Paints for Cabinets

Best Stains for Cabinets

Best Clear Topcoats

DIY vs Professional Cabinet Refinishing

When to DIY

• You're experienced with painting/finishing
• You have time and patience
• Budget is very tight
• You're okay with imperfect results

When to Hire a Pro

• You want a flawless, factory-smooth finish
• Time is important (can't be without kitchen for weeks)
• Cabinets have detailed profiles or fine details
• You're changing from dark stain to light paint

Common Cabinet Refinishing Mistakes to Avoid