Update your Kitchen Cabinets Without Breaking the Bank.

If you are looking to refresh the look of your kitchen without a complete replacement, restaining (sometimes called refinishing) your kitchen is a great solution! In this guide, we will cover the basics of the process on how to restain cabinets and showcase how this remodeling hack can make your kitchen shine!

You will want to make sure that you have the right surface to work on like oak cabinets or any other wood. Furthermore, this can be a challenging task if you’re working on it by yourself. You might get a darker stain than desired, excess stain in spots, or mess up the wood grain. We strongly recommend that for this method you use professionals.

What does it mean to restain kitchen cabinets?

Restaining cabinets are a popular choice for homeowners who want to update their space while keeping their well-built cabinetry. It involves stripping the old finish with a varnish, preparing the wood, and applying new stains to achieve the desired look. This method not only saves money but also allows for customization to your specific style preferences.

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or considering professional help, understanding the restaining process will help you decide if this is the right approach for your cabinet makeover. Let’s dive into the details to see how you can give your cabinets a stunning new life.

Prerequisites Before you Refinish Kitchen Cabinets

• Types of Wood Suitable for Cabinet Refinishing

Not all wood types are ideal for restaining. Woods like oak, ash, and mahogany absorb stains well and are great candidates for restaining due to their visible grain patterns. Softer woods like pine can also be restained, but they might absorb stains unevenly. In these softer woods, using a gel stain might yield better results.

• Assessing the Current Condition of Your Cabinet Doors and Drawers

Before deciding to restain, examine your cabinets for any damage. Look for signs of warping, water damage, or deep scratches. Cabinets in good physical condition without major flaws are the best candidates for restaining.

• Further Factors to Consider

  • Color Transition: Lighter to darker transitions work best. Going from a dark to a lighter stain might require more extensive preparation.

  • Time and Effort: Restaining can be labor-intensive. It requires thorough cleaning, sanding, and sometimes multiple coats of stain and finish.

  • Cost: While less expensive than replacing cabinets, to restain involves costs for materials and tools. If doing it yourself, consider the cost of your time as well.

Once these conditions have been met, then you are ready to begin the project! Now we will cover the basics of accomplishing this project. If you are intimidated by this, fear not! We here at Southwest Kitchen & Bath are here to help you! Should you feel that you would like professional help with this, we are only a phone call away!

Step-by-Step Guide to Wood Cabinet Refinishing

• Materials and Tools Needed

  • Sandpaper or a sanding block

  • Wood cleaner

  • Rags and brushes

  • Wood stain of your choice

  • Polyurethane or another type of sealant

  • Safety gear, such as gloves and goggles

• Step 1 – Preparing Your Cabinets by Cleaning and Sanding or Stripping the Old Finish.

Start by removing all hardware from the cabinets and taking off the doors. Clean the surfaces with a wood cleaner to remove grease and dirt. Next, sand the cabinets thoroughly to remove the old finish and smooth out any imperfections. If there are any damages, such as scratches or dents, repair them with wood filler before proceeding.

• Step 2 – Choosing the Right Color for Your Wood Cabinets.

Select a wood stain that complements your kitchen’s style and color scheme. Consider the wood type of your cabinets because some woods take stain differently than others. Test the stain on a small, hidden area to ensure you’re happy with the color.

• Step 3 – Time to Stain Your Cabinets.

Apply the stain using a brush or rag, following the grain of the wood. Work in manageable sections to maintain a wet edge, blending each area into the next to avoid overlaps. Allow the stain to penetrate the wood for a few minutes, then wipe off any excess with a clean rag. Make sure that you work in a well-ventilated area as the fumes can cause headaches.

• Step 4 – Apply Additional Coats of Stain as Needed.

Depending on the wood of your cabinets or the desired color, you might need to apply a second or third application. Always make sure that the previous coat is dry to the touch before applying another coat. Keep in mind as well of the lighting in your kitchen. It’s important to remember that colors appear different depending on the time of day and the amount of natural light that enters your kitchen. 

• Step 5 – General Finishing Touches.

Once the stain dries completely, apply a coat of sealant, such as polyurethane, to protect the finish and add a glossy sheen. Apply the sealant with a clean brush and allow it to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Reattach the hardware and doors after the sealant has fully cured.

And congrats, you now know how to refinish your cabinets! Now, there are some things that can go wrong or be difficult so let’s cover those as well.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Dealing with Uneven Staining 
  • If you notice uneven coloring, it may be due to inconsistent sanding or application. Sand the affected areas lightly and reapply the stain for a more uniform finish.
• Fixing Mistakes and Reapplying Stain
  • Mistakes can be corrected by sanding the problem area and carefully reapplying the stain. Always work slowly and check your progress frequently to avoid making the issue worst.
• Ensuring a Smooth and Professional Finish
  • Achieve a smooth finish by applying thin, even layers of stain and sealant. Use fine-grit sandpaper between coats when necessary, and always clean the surface before adding another layer. Good lighting and steady hands will help ensure professional results.
• Don’t Rush! 
  • One of the most common mistakes that can happen in any DIY project is rushing. Of course, you’ll want your new look as soon as possible but if you rush through the steps, you are more likely to make costly mistakes. Understand that everything takes time for good reason. Go about each step carefully, taking your time to get it right.
• Stuck or Struggling? Call a Professional! 
  • Sometimes, despite the best intentions and research, a DIY project doesn’t go according to plan. That’s when professionals like us can come in and help. Don’t be afraid to call for help or to schedule a consultation! It’s better in the long run than to suffer through a project.

To restain cabinets is a rewarding DIY project that enhances the beauty and value of your kitchen. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a fresh new look with your own personal touch. And while there are several benefits to this process, one of the biggest draws is the cost. If you are wondering just how much cheaper this option is, we’ve got the answers for you!

Cost Comparison: Refinishing vs. Other Options

This option is the cheapest option-especially if you do it yourself. Even if you are not doing it yourself, you will only be paying for the stain and labor (which is not that much in comparison to other methods like resurfacing or a complete remodel).

No matter which way you go about restaining, typically the cost is about half or even a third of the price of installing new cabinets or other options. This makes it a budget-friendly solution to restain cabinets for those looking to update their kitchen without a major overhaul. Also, it is a great beginning DIY project.

Furthermore, in terms of long-term value, restaining can also be a wise investment. A fresh stain can protect cabinets from wear and tear and increase your home’s appeal if you plan to sell in the future. To restain cabinets can bring renewed life and style to your kitchen, potentially boosting your home’s market value. This method also helps keep the wood of your cabinets in a healthy condition by preventing the chance of rot or cracking.

Transform Your Kitchen with Southwest Kitchen & Bath Remodeling and Refacing Cabinets!

If you are looking to give your kitchen a make-over, don’t worry, we at Southwest Kitchen & Bath have you covered!

While we specialize in refacing cabinets, that is only one of the many services that we offer. Alongside refacing, our comprehensive remodeling services can revitalize your entire kitchen including new countertops, flooring, and lighting installations that complement your aesthetic and functional needs. We are here to ensure that you get the kitchen of your dreams!

We invite you to contact us for a professional consultation. Our team is equipped to help you decide the best course for your kitchen no matter the budget! We’re committed to providing personalized service and delivering high-quality results that enhance your home’s value and beauty.

Ready to transform your kitchen? Reach out to Southwest Kitchen & Bath by calling us at (520) 531-9187. Let us help you create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of!