Kitchen Cabinet Painting

January 28th, 2026 | by Nick Kayser | Posted in

At Mustache Approved Remodeling, we specialize in professional cabinet painting throughout the East Valley, including Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale, and Ahwatukee.

Cabinet painting is the most cost-effective way to transform your kitchen when your cabinets are structurally sound and you’re happy with the existing layout and door style. Our cabinet painting process focuses on professional preparation, premium materials, and durable application techniques—not quick cosmetic fixes that fail within a few years.

As a licensed general contractor (ROC #309760), we handle every phase of your cabinet painting project with meticulous attention to detail, quality products, and transparent communication from consultation through final inspection. See your finished space before we build with our Virtual Showroom 3D design consultation.

For comprehensive information about kitchen renovations, visit our kitchen remodeling services page or our Kitchen FAQs. Learn more about our complete kitchen remodeler services throughout the East Valley.

Watch: Cabinet Painting Project

Here’s a look at a cabinet painting project we completed in the East Valley:

What Is Professional Cabinet Painting?

Professional cabinet painting is a comprehensive refinishing process that updates the color and finish of your existing cabinets through proper surface preparation, high-quality primers and paints, and expert application techniques.

Unlike DIY cabinet painting or budget contractors who rush through preparation, professional cabinet painting requires:

  • Complete door and drawer front removal
  • Thorough cleaning and degreasing of all surfaces
  • Proper sanding and surface preparation
  • Quality primer application for adhesion
  • Multiple coats of cabinet-grade paint
  • Professional spray equipment for smooth finishes
  • Adequate drying time between coats
  • Quality inspection before reassembly

What Gets Painted:

  • Cabinet doors (both sides)
  • Drawer fronts (both sides)
  • Cabinet boxes (exterior surfaces only)
  • Face frames and visible cabinet edges

What Does NOT Get Painted:

  • Cabinet interiors (paint stops at face frames)
  • Shelves (unless specifically requested and priced separately)
  • Cabinet backs or hidden surfaces

This approach delivers a complete exterior transformation while keeping project scope manageable and costs reasonable.

Benefits of Professional Cabinet Painting

Dramatic Transformation at a Fraction of Replacement Cost

Cabinet painting typically costs 50-70% less than new cabinets while delivering a completely refreshed appearance. You avoid expenses associated with:

  • Removing and disposing of existing cabinets
  • Purchasing or building entirely new cabinetry
  • Modifying countertops or backsplash for new cabinets
  • Extended labor for demolition and installation
  • Potential plumbing or electrical modifications

For homeowners whose cabinet boxes and door styles are in good condition, painting provides exceptional value and dramatic visual impact.

Fast Project Timeline with Minimal Disruption

Cabinet painting projects typically take approximately one week from start to finish, compared to 6-10 weeks for full kitchen remodels or 3-4 weeks for cabinet replacement.

This faster timeline means:

  • Kitchen remains mostly functional during work
  • Appliances can remain in place
  • Countertops and backsplash stay intact
  • Minimal disruption to daily routines
  • Faster return to normal kitchen use

Most homeowners can use their kitchen with some limitations during the painting process, whereas full remodels often require complete kitchen shutdowns.

Modern Color Options for Contemporary Design

Cabinet painting allows you to completely update your kitchen’s color scheme to match current design trends or your personal preferences.

Popular cabinet paint colors in the East Valley include:

Timeless Neutrals:

  • White (Alabaster, Simply White, Pure White)
  • Off-white and cream tones for warmth
  • Light gray (Agreeable Gray, Repose Gray)
  • Greige (gray-beige blends)

Bold Contemporary Colors:

  • Navy blue for dramatic sophistication
  • Sage green for organic, calming kitchens
  • Charcoal gray for modern edge
  • Black for high-contrast contemporary designs

Two-Tone Combinations:

  • White upper cabinets with navy or gray lowers
  • White perimeter cabinets with contrasting island
  • Light upper cabinets with darker base cabinets

Modern paint finishes allow your cabinets to match current design trends while maintaining durability required for daily kitchen use.

Extends Cabinet Life and Protects Investment

Professional cabinet painting provides a protective barrier that:

  • Seals cabinet surfaces from moisture and grease
  • Protects against wear and minor damage
  • Makes cleaning easier and more effective
  • Prevents deterioration of underlying wood or material
  • Extends functional cabinet life by 10-15+ years

Quality cabinet paint is formulated specifically for durability, adhesion, and resistance to kitchen conditions—far superior to standard wall paint.

Sustainable and Environmentally Responsible

Cabinet painting is an environmentally conscious choice:

  • Existing cabinets remain in place rather than going to landfills
  • No new materials required for cabinet manufacturing
  • Reduced transportation and manufacturing carbon footprint
  • Lower overall environmental impact than replacement

For homeowners prioritizing sustainability, cabinet painting delivers dramatic updates while minimizing waste.

When Cabinet Painting Is the Right Choice

Your Cabinet Boxes and Doors Are in Good Condition

Cabinet painting works best when:

  • Cabinet boxes are structurally sound with no water damage or rot
  • Doors are solid, flat, and properly aligned
  • Door styles are modern or timeless (Shaker, flat-panel, simple designs)
  • Cabinet surfaces are smooth and free from deep damage
  • Hinges and mounting hardware function properly
  • You want to save your countertops, sink, faucet, & backsplash (We do full painted kitchens as well)

During consultation, we inspect cabinet condition to ensure painting will deliver lasting results for your specific situation.

You Like Your Current Door Style

Cabinet painting maintains your existing door style. If you:

  • Have Shaker-style doors (timeless and versatile)
  • Have flat-panel doors (modern and contemporary)
  • Like your current door design but not the color/finish
  • Want to update color without changing style

Then painting is an excellent option. If you want to change from raised-panel to Shaker, or flat to raised-panel, cabinet refacing would be more appropriate.

Kitchen Layout Works for Your Needs

Cabinet painting is ideal when your existing layout functions well:

  • Storage locations work for your cooking and organization style
  • Work triangle (sink, stove, refrigerator) is efficient
  • Counter space meets your meal preparation needs
  • Traffic flow through kitchen functions smoothly

If layout needs to change, a full kitchen remodel would be necessary.

Budget and Timeline Are Important Considerations

Cabinet painting makes sense when:

  • You want dramatic transformation without major investment
  • Project needs completion within specific timeframe
  • You want to allocate budget to other areas (countertops, appliances, flooring)
  • You’re preparing home for sale and need maximum impact per dollar invested

When Cabinet Refacing or Replacement Makes More Sense

Cabinet painting isn’t always the best solution. Consider alternatives when:

You Want Different Door Style

Painting maintains existing door style. If you want to change from outdated raised-panel to modern Shaker, or flat doors to something with more detail, cabinet refacing allows complete door replacement.

Doors Are Damaged or Warped

Severely damaged, warped, or water-damaged doors won’t paint well and will show imperfections through the finish. Refacing with new doors or full replacement is more appropriate.

Cabinet Boxes Are Compromised

Water damage, rot, structural issues, or severe wear require cabinet replacement rather than painting.

You Need to Change Kitchen Layout

If kitchen layout doesn’t work—poor storage, inefficient work triangle, awkward traffic flow—full cabinet replacement allows complete redesign.

For comprehensive information about all kitchen renovation options, visit our kitchen remodeling services page.

The Professional Cabinet Painting Process

Initial Consultation and Color Selection

Your cabinet painting project begins with thorough consultation where we:

Assess Current Cabinet Condition

We inspect existing cabinets for structural integrity, surface damage, door condition, and overall suitability for painting.

Discuss Color and Finish Preferences with our Color Consultant

We review color options, sheen levels (satin vs. semi-gloss), and how different finishes perform in kitchen environments. We help you select colors that complement your countertops, backsplash, flooring, and overall design aesthetic.

Review Hardware Options

We discuss whether to keep existing hardware, update to new handles and pulls, or change hardware style and finish entirely.

Provide Clear Pricing and Timeline

We deliver detailed estimates outlining all work, materials, timeline, and costs so you understand complete project scope before proceeding.

This consultation typically takes 1 hour and provides all information needed to move forward with confidence.

Preparation: The Foundation of Lasting Results

Professional cabinet painting results depend almost entirely on preparation quality. This is where we invest significant time and attention:

Complete Door and Drawer Removal

All cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware are carefully removed. Each piece is labeled for proper reinstallation location.

Thorough Cleaning and Degreasing

Kitchen cabinets accumulate years of grease, cooking residue, and grime that prevent proper paint adhesion. We:

  • Apply professional-grade degreasing solutions
  • Clean all surfaces including doors, drawer fronts, and cabinet boxes
  • Remove all grease, oil, and residue from surfaces
  • Ensure completely clean surfaces for primer adhesion

This step is critical and cannot be rushed or skipped.

Surface Repair and Preparation

After cleaning, we prepare surfaces for painting:

  • Fill holes, dents, and imperfections with wood filler or spackle
  • Apply caulk to gaps and joints for seamless appearance
  • Sand filled areas smooth and flush with surrounding surfaces
  • Repair any minor damage or wear

Complete Sanding

All surfaces receive thorough sanding:

  • Initial sanding removes glossy finishes and creates texture for adhesion
  • Scuff sanding between primer and finish coats ensures smooth results
  • Hand sanding in detailed areas and edges
  • Dust removal after all sanding operations

Proper sanding is essential for paint adhesion and smooth final appearance.

Masking and Protection

We protect all adjacent surfaces:

  • Countertops covered with protective materials
  • Appliances masked or covered
  • Floors protected with drop cloths
  • Backsplash and walls masked at cabinet edges

Primer Application

After preparation is complete, we apply professional-grade primer:

Why Primer Is Essential

Primer serves multiple critical functions:

  • Creates strong bond between existing finish and new paint
  • Blocks stains and tannins from bleeding through topcoat
  • Provides uniform surface for consistent paint color
  • Improves paint adhesion and durability
  • Reduces number of topcoat applications needed

Our Primer Process

We apply primer to:

  • All cabinet door surfaces (both sides)
  • All drawer front surfaces (both sides)
  • Cabinet box exteriors including face frames
  • All visible cabinet surfaces

Primer is applied using professional spray equipment for smooth, even coverage without brush marks or roller texture.

Drying and Curing Time

We allow proper drying time (24-48 hours) after primer application before proceeding to topcoat. Rushing this phase compromises final results.

Paint Application

Once primer is fully cured, we apply cabinet-grade paint:

Cabinet-Grade Paint vs. Standard Wall Paint

We use paints specifically formulated for cabinets:

  • Superior adhesion to primed surfaces
  • High durability for daily use and cleaning
  • Resistance to chipping, scratching, and wear
  • Self-leveling properties for smooth finish
  • Appropriate sheen levels for kitchen environments

Cabinet paint costs significantly more than wall paint but delivers performance required for kitchen cabinetry.

Professional Spray Application

We apply paint using professional spray equipment:

  • HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray systems
  • Smooth, factory-like finish without brush marks
  • Even coverage across all surfaces
  • Consistent thickness and appearance

Spray application delivers superior results compared to brush or roller methods.

Multiple Coats for Durability

Professional cabinet painting requires multiple topcoat applications:

  • First topcoat provides base color coverage
  • Scuff sanding between coats for smoothness
  • Second topcoat ensures complete coverage and durability
  • Additional coats applied if needed for dark colors or complete coverage

Each coat requires proper drying time before the next application.

Quality Inspection

After final coat application and curing, we inspect:

  • Coverage consistency across all surfaces
  • Smoothness and finish quality
  • Edge details and hard-to-reach areas
  • Any imperfections requiring touch-up

Reassembly and Hardware Installation

Once paint is fully cured, we complete final assembly:

Door and Drawer Reinstallation

All doors and drawer fronts are reinstalled in their original locations using our labeling system. We ensure:

  • Proper alignment and consistent gaps
  • Smooth operation of all doors and drawers
  • Proper door closure and latching

Hardware Installation

We install hardware according to your preference:

  • Existing hardware cleaned and reinstalled if keeping
  • New hardware installed at consistent heights and spacing
  • All screws tightened and properly secured
  • Handles, pulls, and knobs aligned correctly

Final Adjustments and Cleanup

We complete all finishing details:

  • Adjust doors and drawers for perfect alignment
  • Remove all masking and protection materials
  • Clean all surfaces thoroughly
  • Remove all construction debris
  • Conduct final walkthrough inspection

Timeline for Cabinet Painting Projects

Cabinet painting projects typically take approximately one week from start to finish.

Day 1: Removal and Preparation

Remove all doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. Begin thorough cleaning and degreasing of all surfaces.

Day 2: Continue Preparation

Complete cleaning, fill imperfections, apply caulk where needed, and sand all surfaces for primer adhesion.

Day 3: Prime All Surfaces

Apply professional primer to cabinet boxes, doors, and drawer fronts using spray equipment.

Day 4: Dry Time and Scuff Sand

Allow primer to cure properly. Scuff sand all primed surfaces for topcoat application.

Day 5: First Topcoat Application

Apply first coat of cabinet-grade paint to all surfaces.

Day 6: Sand and Second Topcoat

Scuff sand first topcoat. Apply second (final) coat of paint.

Day 7: Cure, Reassemble, and Final Details

Allow final coat to cure. Reinstall doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. Complete final adjustments and cleanup.

Projects requiring additional coats (dark colors, color changes from dark to light) or involving significant repairs may extend timeline by 1-2 days.

For more information about kitchen project timelines, visit our Kitchen FAQs page.

Cost of Cabinet Painting

Cabinet painting costs vary based on kitchen size, number of doors and drawers, cabinet condition, and color selections.

Typical Cost Range:

Most East Valley cabinet painting projects range from $5,000-$10,000 depending on:

  • Number of cabinet doors and drawer fronts
  • Total cabinet box surface area
  • Extent of preparation needed (repairs, damage, previous finishes)
  • Color changes (light to dark or dark to light may require additional coats)
  • Hardware updates (new handles and pulls add to cost)
  • Cabinet complexity (glass doors, detailed molding, specialty features)

What’s Included:

Professional cabinet painting includes:

  • Complete door and drawer front removal
  • Thorough cleaning and degreasing
  • Surface repairs (filling, spackling, caulking)
  • Complete sanding and preparation
  • Professional primer application
  • Multiple coats of cabinet-grade paint
  • Professional spray application for smooth finish
  • Reinstallation of all doors, drawers, and hardware
  • Final adjustments and quality inspection

Cost Comparison:

  • Cabinet Painting: $4,000-$8,000 (updates color, keeps existing doors)
  • Cabinet Refacing: $8,000-$18,000 (replaces doors, updates veneer)
  • Full Cabinet Replacement: $15,000-$40,000+ (completely new cabinetry)

Cabinet painting delivers significant visual transformation at the lowest cost among cabinet upgrade options.

During consultation, we provide detailed pricing based on your specific kitchen and preferences.

Cabinet Painting vs. Cabinet Refacing

Both cabinet painting and refacing update kitchen aesthetics, but they serve different purposes:

Cabinet Painting:

  • Keeps existing doors and drawer fronts
  • Updates finish/color only
  • Door style remains unchanged
  • Lower cost option ($5,000-$10,000+)
  • Approximately one week timeline
  • Best for cabinets with good door styles in solid condition

Cabinet Refacing:

  • Replaces all doors and drawer fronts
  • Updates veneer on cabinet box surfaces
  • Allows complete door style change
  • Higher cost ($10,000-$20,000+)
  • Longer timeline (3-4 weeks with fabrication)
  • Best for outdated door styles or damaged doors

Which Is Right for You?

Choose cabinet painting if:

  • You like your current door style
  • Doors and drawer fronts are in excellent condition
  • You want to update color or refresh appearance
  • Budget is primary concern
  • Timeline is important

Choose cabinet refacing if:

  • You want completely different door style
  • Current doors are damaged, warped, or outdated
  • You want comprehensive update with new hardware and mechanisms
  • You want maximum transformation short of full replacement

Maintaining Your Painted Cabinets

Proper maintenance ensures your painted cabinets perform beautifully for 10-15+ years:

Daily Maintenance:

  • Wipe spills immediately to prevent staining
  • Use soft, damp cloth for routine cleaning
  • Avoid excessive water on cabinet surfaces
  • Close doors and drawers gently

Weekly Maintenance:

  • Clean cabinet surfaces with pH-neutral cleaner designed for painted cabinets
  • Wipe door and drawer fronts to remove cooking residue and fingerprints
  • Check hardware for any loose screws
  • Dry any moisture around sink base cabinets

Monthly Maintenance:

  • Deep clean all cabinet surfaces
  • Clean cabinet hardware
  • Inspect painted surfaces for any chips or damage
  • Address any issues early before they worsen

Annual Maintenance:

  • Tighten any loose hardware
  • Touch up any minor chips or scratches if needed
  • Inspect door alignment and adjust if necessary
  • Check cabinet box condition

What to Avoid:

  • Harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive scrubbers
  • Excessive moisture or standing water
  • Ammonia-based or bleach-based cleaners
  • Scouring pads or steel wool

With proper care, professionally painted cabinets deliver reliable performance and beautiful appearance for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabinet Painting

How long do professionally painted cabinets last?

When properly prepared and finished with quality materials, professionally painted cabinets typically last 10-15 years or more with normal use and proper maintenance. The key factors are thorough surface preparation, quality primer, cabinet-grade paint, and professional application techniques.

Can you paint cabinets that were previously painted?

Yes. As long as cabinets are in good structural condition, we can prep and repaint previously painted cabinets. The preparation process includes degreasing, light sanding to create proper adhesion surface, and professional primer application before new topcoat.

Do you paint the inside of cabinets?

We can but it’s an extra cost. We paint the interiors in situations where there’s class doors and you can see inside the cabinets. Typically we only paint—cabinet doors, drawer fronts, cabinet boxes, and face frames. Paint stops at face frames and does not extend into cabinet interiors.

Will painted cabinets chip or peel?

Professionally painted cabinets using proper preparation, quality primer, and cabinet-grade paint should not chip or peel under normal use. Chipping and peeling occur when preparation is inadequate, inferior products are used, or proper curing time isn’t allowed. Our process prevents these issues.

Can you paint over stained wood cabinets?

Yes. Wood cabinets with stained finishes can be painted. The process requires thorough cleaning, light sanding to remove glossy finish, application of stain-blocking primer to prevent bleed-through, and multiple coats of paint. Proper primer is critical when painting over stained wood.

What paint sheen is best for kitchen cabinets?

We typically recommend satin or semi-gloss finishes for kitchen cabinets. Satin provides a subtle sheen with good durability and cleanability. Semi-gloss offers more shine with superior moisture resistance and easier cleaning. The choice depends on your aesthetic preference and kitchen lighting.

How long before I can use my kitchen after cabinet painting?

Paint needs proper curing time before cabinets can handle normal use. We recommend waiting 24-48 hours before gentle use, and 1-2 weeks before heavy use or deep cleaning. Full cure takes approximately 30 days, though cabinets can be used carefully before complete curing.

Can you change cabinet color from dark to light or light to dark?

Yes. Color changes in either direction are possible. Dark to light conversions may require additional primer and paint coats to achieve complete coverage. Light to dark conversions are typically easier. We account for this in timeline and pricing during consultation.

Do I need to remove everything from my cabinets?

Yes. All cabinet contents should be removed before work begins. We remove doors and drawer fronts for painting, so items stored inside need temporary relocation. We recommend clearing cabinets a day before project start.

Will the paint smell bother me?

Modern cabinet paints have low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) formulations with minimal odor compared to older paint products. Most homeowners experience little to no odor issues during painting. Proper ventilation during and after painting helps dissipate any residual smell quickly.

Why Choose Mustache Approved for Cabinet Painting

Licensed General Contractor (ROC #309760)

As a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, we handle all aspects of your cabinet painting project with professional standards and accountability.

Comprehensive Preparation Process

We invest significant time in proper preparation—cleaning, degreasing, filling, sanding, and priming—because we know lasting results depend on preparation quality, not just paint application.

Premium Materials and Products

We use professional-grade degreasers, quality primers, and cabinet-specific paints formulated for durability and performance. We don’t cut costs on materials because material quality directly impacts longevity.

Professional Spray Application

Our spray equipment delivers smooth, factory-like finishes without brush marks or roller texture. This professional approach creates results superior to DIY or budget contractor methods.

Proven Process

Our 6-step remodeling process ensures quality results, clear communication, and zero surprises from consultation through final walkthrough.

Transparent Pricing

We provide detailed written estimates clearly outlining all work, materials, timeline, and costs. No hidden fees, no surprise charges, no pressure—just honest pricing for quality work.

Warranty Coverage

All cabinet painting projects include our workmanship warranty covering paint adhesion, application quality, and overall performance.

Serving the East Valley

We proudly provide cabinet painting and complete kitchen remodeling services throughout the East Valley, including:

Ready to Discuss Your Cabinet Painting Project?

If you’re considering cabinet painting for your East Valley kitchen, contact Mustache Approved Remodeling to schedule a consultation. We’ll evaluate your cabinets, discuss color options, review your goals and budget, and provide a clear plan for your project.

Additional Resources:

Mustache Approved Remodeling
ROC #309760 | Licensed, Bonded, Insured
Serving Gilbert, Chandler, Mesa, Tempe, Scottsdale & Ahwatukee