Refinishing Bathroom Cabinets

Bathroom cabinets are a major feature of any home. Good cabinetry can provide needed storage space, and adds to the enjoyment of your bathroom. Refinishing bathroom cabinets can add value to your home, and give you the satisfaction of having created something that will add to your family's comfort.

Refinishing veneer cabinets is a great way to add new life to your bathroom cabinetry without replacing it. By refinishing bathroom cabinets, you can save a great deal of money and add beauty and value to your home. Surprisingly, refinishing veneer cabinets is something that almost any homeowner can finish in the span of a few short days. If it sounds like something you'd like to try, then read on!

When refinishing any veneer cabinets, the first thing you need to do is to remove the existing finish. Since many cabinets have complex nooks and crannies on the doors, sanding is often ineffective. The best way to remove an old finish is with a gel-based paint and stain remover. Make sure you have eye protection and ample ventilation before doing this step, and always cover your flooring with a tarp or plastic sheeting.

Apply the gel in a smooth, uniform coat, following the grain of the wood, and allow it to set for around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the instructions for the specific product you are using. Then, all you do is wipe away the gel and allow the cabinet to dry before finish sanding with a fine grit sandpaper.

If your cabinets are well worn, and you find uneven places, scratches, or dents in the wood, use a wood filler. Apply the wood filler with a flexible putty knife, and allow it to dry completely before sanding off any excess. Next, it's time for a primer coat. Most people just buy a wood primer but you can make your own using a bit of stain and an oil based polyurethane.

If you want to leave your cabinets natural, simply finish off with two or three coats of clear, oil based polyurethane. If you prefer a particular color, apply stain in the direction of the wood grain using a soft cloth. You may need up to three coats, depending on the richness of color that you desire. Once the stain is dry, you finish up with several coats of glossy or matte finish polyurethane to protect the finish.

Refinishing veneer cabinets is something any homeowner can do on their own. However there are also many professional companies who can take care of the job of refinishing bathroom cabinets for you, quickly and easily, and much less expensively than replacing all of your cabinetry.

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