How to Prepare Edmonton Kitchen Cabinets for Refinishing – A Step-by-Step Guide

Refinishing kitchen cabinets is a fantastic way to refresh your Edmonton home’s kitchen without the cost of a full remodel. Proper preparation is key to achieving a smooth, professional finish that lasts. Follow this step-by-step guide from Royal Painting to ensure your cabinets are ready for a flawless refinishing process.

Step 1: Clear the Kitchen Area

Start by removing all items from your cabinets and countertops. This includes dishes, appliances, and decorations. Clear the space to create a clutter-free work zone, which makes it easier to access cabinets and protects your belongings from dust or paint. Cover countertops and floors with drop cloths or plastic sheeting to safeguard them during the process.

Step 2: Remove Cabinet Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Carefully detach cabinet doors and drawers using a screwdriver. Label each piece with painter’s tape to note its location (e.g., “upper left cabinet”) for easy reassembly. Remove all hardware, such as knobs, handles, and hinges, and store them in labeled bags. This step ensures all surfaces are accessible for refinishing and prevents damage to hardware.

Step 3: Clean the Cabinets Thoroughly

Grease, grime, and dust can interfere with paint or stain adhesion. Clean all cabinet surfaces—doors, frames, and interiors—with a degreaser or a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. Use a sponge or cloth to scrub away buildup, then rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth. A clean surface is critical for a smooth, durable finish.

Step 4: Sand the Surfaces

Sanding creates a rough texture for better paint or stain adhesion. Use medium-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) to lightly sand all cabinet surfaces, focusing on glossy or previously finished areas. For intricate details, use a sanding sponge. After sanding, wipe down surfaces with a tack cloth or damp rag to remove dust. For heavily worn cabinets, you may need to repeat with finer sandpaper (220 grit) for a polished base.

Step 5: Repair Any Damage

Inspect cabinets for dents, scratches, or cracks. Fill minor imperfections with wood filler, applying it with a putty knife and smoothing the surface. Once the filler dries, sand the repaired areas lightly to blend them with the surrounding wood. Addressing damage ensures a uniform finish and extends the life of your cabinets.

Step 6: Prime the Cabinets (If Needed)

If you’re painting or covering a dark stain, apply a high-quality primer to prevent bleed-through and improve adhesion. Use a brush for edges and a roller for flat surfaces to ensure even coverage. Let the primer dry completely, typically 4-6 hours, and lightly sand with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth base. Wipe away dust before proceeding.

Step 7: Set Up a Work Area

Create a dedicated space for refinishing, ideally in a well-ventilated area like a garage or covered outdoor space. Lay out cabinet doors and drawers on a flat surface, supported by sawhorses or sturdy tables. This setup allows you to work efficiently and ensures even application of paint or stain.

Step 8: Consult Professionals for Best Results

While DIY preparation is possible, partnering with experts ensures a flawless outcome. Cabinet refinishing Edmonton specialists, like those at Royal Painting, bring the tools, experience, and techniques to deliver a professional-grade finish. If you’re unsure about any step or want to save time, consider scheduling a consultation to streamline the process.

Conclusion

Properly preparing your kitchen cabinets is the foundation of a successful refinishing project. By clearing the space, cleaning thoroughly, sanding, and addressing repairs, you set the stage for a stunning transformation. Whether you tackle it yourself or enlist professionals, these steps will help your Edmonton kitchen shine with a fresh, modern look.