By Nader Agha, Owner of Masters Wood Finishing
If you’re considering giving your kitchen a fresh look, repainting your cabinets can be a transformative and cost-effective option. However, when it comes to kitchen cabinet refinishing, the cost isn’t one-size-fits-all. At Masters Wood Finishing in Toronto, where we’ve been perfecting the art of wood finishing and kitchen cabinet refinishing for over 25 years, we understand that the cost of repainting kitchen cabinets can vary widely. Here’s a closer look at what influences the cost and the different services we offer to meet your needs.
Factors That Influence the Cost
The cost of repainting kitchen cabinets largely depends on several key factors:
- Type of Service: Different services come with varying price tags. Whether you’re looking for a simple refresh or a full-scale transformation, the scope of the work will determine the cost.
- Condition of the Kitchen: The current condition of your cabinets plays a significant role. Cabinets in better condition will generally cost less to refinish compared to those needing extensive repairs or prep work.
- Size and Complexity: The size of your kitchen and the complexity of the design will affect the overall cost. Larger kitchens or those with intricate details will naturally require more time and materials, impacting the final price.
Our Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Services
At Masters Wood Finishing, we offer a range of services tailored to fit different needs and budgets:
1. Basic Reconditioning
This is our most cost-effective service designed to revitalize your cabinets with minimal intervention. The process includes a thorough clean-up, light scuffing, and applying clear coats to restore the original luster.
- Cost: Between $3,000 and $8,000 CAD
- Ideal For: Cabinets that are in good shape but need a touch-up to bring back their shine.
2. Kitchen Cabinet Color Change from Stain Grade to Paint Grade
If you’re looking to switch from a stained finish to a painted look, this service involves more detailed preparation and painting. It’s a great option if you want to completely change the aesthetic of your kitchen.
- Cost: Between $4,000 and $25,000 CAD
- Ideal For: Cabinets that are structurally sound but require a new color and finish.
3. Kitchen Cabinet Dip and Strip
For a more dramatic transformation, especially if you’re changing from a stain grade to a completely new finish, our dip and strip service removes the old finish entirely before applying the new color. This process is comprehensive and ensures a smooth, clean surface for the best results.
- Cost: Between $6,000 and $30,000 CAD
- Ideal For: Cabinets that need significant refinishing or a total overhaul in color and finish.
Get Your Free Quote
Understanding the cost of kitchen cabinet refinishing can help you plan and make informed decisions about your kitchen remodel. For a precise quote tailored to your kitchen’s specific needs, give us a call at (416) 223-9292. We’re here to provide expert advice and help you achieve the kitchen of your dreams.
Whether you’re looking to refresh your cabinets with a basic reconditioning or undertake a more extensive project like a color change or dip and strip, Masters Wood Finishing is here to guide you every step of the way. With over two decades of experience in wood finishing, we ensure top-quality results that match your vision and budget.
Factors Affecting Kitchen Cabinet Painting Costs
- Cabinet Condition: The condition of your existing cabinets will determine the amount of preparation work required. Cabinets with significant damage or peeling paint may necessitate more extensive sanding, repair, or even priming, increasing the cost.
- Cabinet Quantity and Size: The number of cabinets, their size, and the complexity of their design will impact the overall labor and material costs.
- Paint Quality: Higher-quality paints typically offer better durability and coverage but come at a higher price.
- Professional vs. DIY: Hiring professionals will increase the cost but save you time and effort. DIY projects can be more cost-effective but require time, skill, and the purchase of necessary tools and materials.
- Geographic Location: Labor and material costs can vary based on your location.
DIY vs. Professional Painting
DIY Pros:
- Cost-effective: Significant savings compared to hiring professionals.
- Customization: Complete control over color choices and finishes.
DIY Cons:
- Time-consuming: Requires significant time and effort.
- Skill and Expertise: Requires painting skills and attention to detail.
- Potential for Mistakes: Errors can be costly to correct.
Professional Pros:
- Expertise: Experienced painters can deliver high-quality results.
- Efficiency: Professionals can complete the job quickly and efficiently.
- Warranty: Some painters offer warranties on their work.
Professional Cons:
- Higher cost: Hiring professionals is more expensive than DIY.
- Limited Customization: Less control over the process and color choices.
DIY Kitchen Cabinet Painting: A Cost-Effective Option
While hiring professionals can offer convenience and expertise, many homeowners opt for the DIY route to save money and personalize their kitchen. Here’s a breakdown of the process and potential costs:
Essential Materials and Tools
- Paint: High-quality cabinet paint designed for durability.
- Primer: Essential for proper adhesion and coverage, especially on dark or glossy cabinets.
- Sandpaper: Various grits for sanding and smoothing surfaces.
- Degreaser: To remove grease and grime.
- Drop cloths and painter’s tape: To protect surfaces and create clean lines.
- Brushes and rollers: For applying paint evenly.
- Sanding block or electric sander: For efficient sanding.
Preparation is Key
Thorough preparation is essential for a successful paint job:
- Clean cabinets: Remove grease, grime, and dirt with a degreaser.
- Sanding: Lightly sand the cabinet surfaces to create a smooth base for the paint.
- Fill imperfections: Use wood filler to repair any dents or scratches.
- Prime: Apply a coat of primer to ensure proper adhesion and hide imperfections.
Painting Process
- Color selection: Choose a paint color that complements your kitchen’s style and decor.
- Application: Apply multiple coats of paint, allowing adequate drying time between coats.
- Hardware: Remove cabinet hardware and repaint or replace it for a fresh look.
Cost Considerations
- Paint and supplies: Budget for high-quality paint, primer, sandpaper, brushes, rollers, and other necessary materials.
- Time investment: Factor in the time required for preparation, painting, and drying.
- Potential mistakes: Mistakes can lead to additional costs for supplies and time.
Cost Comparison
While painting kitchen cabinets is generally more affordable than fully refinishing them, the specific costs can vary widely depending on factors like cabinet condition, size, and desired finish. Here’s a general comparison:
| Option | Cost Range |
| Basic Conditioning | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Cabinet Painting | $4,000 – $25,000 |
| Cabinet Dip and Strip | $6,000 – $30,000 |
Additional Considerations
- Cabinet Removal: Some professionals remove cabinets for painting, which can increase costs.
- Primer and Paint: The type and quality of paint used will affect the overall cost.
- Hardware: Replacing cabinet hardware can enhance the overall look and may incur additional expenses.
Choosing the Right Paint for Your Kitchen Cabinets
Selecting the perfect paint color for your kitchen cabinets can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your space. Consider these factors when making your choice:
Understanding Paint Types
- Latex Paint: Water-based, low VOCs, easy to clean, dries quickly, and offers a wide range of colors.
- Oil-Based Paint: Durable, smooth finish, but longer drying time and strong odor.
- Cabinet-Specific Paint: Formulated for cabinets, offering enhanced durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Color Selection
- Consider your kitchen’s style: Traditional, modern, or contemporary styles may influence your color choice.
- Complement countertops and backsplash: Choose a color that harmonizes with your existing surfaces.
- Lighting: Natural light can affect how colors appear; test paint samples in your kitchen.
- Personal preference: Ultimately, select a color you love and enjoy living with.
Popular Cabinet Paint Colors
- White: Timeless and versatile, creating a clean and airy atmosphere.
- Gray: Offers a modern and sophisticated look, with various shades to suit different styles.
- Black: Bold and dramatic, creates a focal point in the kitchen.
- Navy Blue: Adds depth and richness, while still being versatile.
- Green: Brings a sense of nature and tranquility to the space.
Achieving Different Finishes
- Matte: Creates a soft, understated look.
- Glossy: Offers a high shine, but can highlight imperfections.
- Semi-gloss: A balance of shine and durability, popular for cabinets.
- Satin: A soft sheen with a subtle luster.
Test Before Committing
- Paint swatches: Apply paint swatches to cabinet doors to see how the color looks in your kitchen’s lighting.
- Live with the color: Spend some time with the color to ensure you love it before committing to the entire project.
By carefully considering these factors and experimenting with different colors, you can achieve a stunning transformation for your kitchen cabinets.
Book Your Hardwood Floor Refinishing Project with Masters Wood Finishing Toronto.
Masters Wood Finishing is transforming hardwood flooring across the GTA with our decades of experience in hardwood refinishing services.
Request your flooring refinishing project quote by contacting our team at 416-223-9292 or get a quote online!