In a previous blog, we discussed different types of cabinetry and how these add value and function to a home. Here we look at the most popular types of cabinet finishes and finishing techniques. Whether you finish your cabinets yourself or hire someone else to do the work, the products available in the market let you design and achieve a look that is uniquely yours.
Stained Cabinets
Stains are used on wood cabinets to enhance the cabinet’s natural grain and beauty and to provide warmth and color. The type of wood and the effect you wish to achieve will determine the type of stain that works best. Stains can be oil-based or water-based, and each type has its own advantages. If you are staining your cabinets yourself, it is always recommended that you test the stain on a separate piece of wood. This allows you to see what the finished color will look like when it is dry, and also how well it looks on your specific wood type.
Oil-based stains penetrate the wood more deeply and allow for an even finish. These types of stains are durable and require less long-term upkeep. Water-based stains produce a rich color hue and hold their color for a long time. Cabinetry with water-based stains can be easily cleaned with soap and water, and they remain resistant to mold and mildew. Stains can sometimes accentuate flaws in the wood grain or be unevenly absorbed, which results in blotches or marks where strokes overlapped. Always make sure to use the best type of stain for whatever type of wood cabinets you have.
Glazed Cabinets
Cabinet glaze is a finish used to highlight and enhance specific architectural and design elements on cabinets, such as raised-panel doors. Cabinet glaze can also be applied to moldings and accent pieces such as corbels. Glazing is often done in a pin-stripe fashion around profiled edges and in grooves, and appears in a contrasting color. This type of glazing is usually done by hand. A more unique look can be achieved by applying glaze to an entire cabinet surface then wiping it off for subtle shading on top of the original cabinet color.
Glazing is a beautiful accent on traditional cabinet types and, for the most attractive look, glaze color should complement the other colors and design elements in the room. For example, glazing on kitchen cabinets should tie in with the colors of the counter, floors, and backsplash. Glaze can be used on both stained and painted cabinets, and is applied as either a wet or dry finish.
Painted Cabinets
If color on your cabinets matters to you more than a natural wood-grain look, paint is the way to go. Paint gives wood a smooth, opaque finish that, for most wood types, covers the wood’s grain texture. Cabinet manufacturers offer painted cabinets in an ever-increasing number of colors, but do-it-yourselfers who want a unique look can do the work themselves and change the color of their existing cabinets to whatever color – or colors – they want. Another upside to painting existing cabinets is that it saves a significant amount of time and money over doing a complete remodel.
Cabinet Finishing Techniques
Cabinet manufacturers typically offer a variety of finishing styles and techniques. As with stains, some finishing techniques work better on certain types of wood than on others. One popular technique is applying an aged finish that involves distressing the wood in certain areas such as corners to create a look of worn heirloom or vintage furniture. Other finishing techniques include burnished finishes and brushed finishes that involve applying the finishing product over the paint or stain for added depth of the finish.
The variety of options available for finishing cabinets is only as limited as the home designer’s imagination. Different colors, wood types, stains, and finishing techniques let you design and install cabinets that reflect your distinct taste and style.
Sovereign Construction Services is a full-service building and remodeling company. Owner Steve Rush brings years of expertise in design and renovation, and collaborates with homeowners to develop solutions that are both attractive and functional. Steve is available to discuss all your home building and renovating needs and can be reached at 610-639-2986!