What is the best paint to use for painting kitchen cabinets? Homeowners will often ask this question and the answer is: “it depends…” In terms of conventional acrylic paint, we like Kelly Moore Durapoxy. We have used plenty of Durapoxy on trim and kitchen cabinets that have been previously painted. It’s fairly durable, sticks well to alkyd finishes, is fast-drying and easy to apply. Durapoxy also levels fairly well for a relatively smooth look. If you want an easy-to-apply product that will give great results and be low-impact in terms of odor and drying, Durapoxy is a solid option. When considering what is the best paint for kitchen cabinetry, Durapoxy is a great choice for people looking to “do it themselves”.
Painting with water-oil Hybrids
Another classification of paint to consider when painting kitchen cabinets is the oil-water “hybrid”. Paint companies developed “hybrid” paints to mimic the characteristics of a conventional oil/alkyd paint with the ease of water clean-up. Do Hybrids really perform like oil-based paints? The short answer is “no”. That said, Hybrids tend to stick well to glossy surfaces and have a smoother appearance than conventional paints, including Durapoxy. Hybrids are also “greener” and have lower VOC’s and than their oil-based precursors. One can easily apply hybrids using a brush and roller, making them another viable option for “do it yourselfers”.
Some examples of Hybrids are: Kelly Moore Epic, Ben Moore Advance, Sherwin Williams Proclassic and Dunn Edwards Aristoshield. We like the Dunn Edwards Aristoshield, because it most closely mimics the durability and appearance of oil-based paint. Be forewarned that it also has some residual odor that will linger for a few days. Ben Moore and Home Depot sell a hybridized water-polyurethane called insl-x Cabinet Coat. This product has low odor, sticks and levels great, but only comes in white.
High-end cabinet finishes
None of the above products will come close to the mirror-like finish, durability and stain/chemical resistance of a pre-catalyzed lacquer coating or Conversion Varnish. If you buy finished kitchen cabinets from a factory or custom cabinet shop, they will generally have a “lacquer” coating, which is a far superior finish than conventional paints. Therefore, if you have brand-new, un-painted cabinets, or high end, pre-lacquered cabinets, I would recommend re-coating with lacquer. The downside: Lacquer must be sprayed, generally using a special gun (air assisted) and is a big logistical process. It also reeks intensely for a short while. You generally would never use a pre-catalyzed lacquer on doors, windows, and trim. It is basically a furniture and cabinet finish. If you are looking for a “pre-catalyzed” lacquer or conversion varnish finish, you must hire a professional painting contractor with the skill equipment and experience.
What is the best paint for kitchen cabinets? It depends on what your needs are! Hopefully this article has provided some clarity.
