The Kitchen Cabinet Painting Process, Step by Step

Cabinet refinishing is the most detail-driven work we do. Here's the day-by-day process on a typical kitchen.

Day 1 — Setup and disassembly

We mask the kitchen, build containment, and set up dust control. Every door and drawer front is numbered and removed with its hardware bagged and labeled so nothing gets mixed up.

Day 2 — Cleaning and prep

Everything is degreased with a cabinet-specific cleaner, then sanded and deglossed. Dings are filled, and grain is smoothed on oak if you want a modern flat look.

Day 3 — Priming

A bonding primer goes on boxes in place and on doors in our spray setup. This is the step that determines whether the finish chips in a year or holds for a decade.

Day 4–5 — Finish coats

Two coats of cabinet-grade enamel, sprayed, with light sanding between coats. Boxes are sprayed in place with full containment.

Day 6 — Cure, reassembly, and walkthrough

Doors return, hinges are adjusted so every door hangs level, hardware goes back on, and we walk the kitchen with you in daylight.

Living with your kitchen during the project

You keep use of your appliances and sink throughout. Doors are off for a few days, so plan to work out of open shelving during that stretch.

Aftercare

• Wait 14 days before heavy cleaning; the enamel keeps hardening after it feels dry.
• Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap — no abrasives or ammonia.
• Wipe spills promptly around the sink and range.