If youโre planning for cabinet painting in Coronado, CA, the most important part of the process is getting the steps for sanding cabinets right. Skipping or rushing through this step can leave you with a rough surface, chipping paint, or an uneven finish that wonโt hold up. Sanding properly lays the foundation for a smooth, long-lasting paint job that looks like it was done by a pro.
A friend of mine recently wanted to refresh their kitchen cabinets. Excited about the transformation, they barely sanded, thinking a good primer would make up for it. Within a few weeks, the paint started peeling around the cabinet knobs. Every time they reached for a handle, more paint chipped off. Frustrated, they had to redo the entire project, this time sanding the right way. Save yourself the extra work and follow these seven steps to get it right the first time!
Key Takeaways
7 Critical Steps for Sanding Cabinets
Step 1: Take Off Doors, Drawers, and Hardware
Sanding around hinges and handles is frustrating. Removing cabinet doors, drawers, and all hardware makes sanding easier and prevents accidental scratches or uneven edges.
A simple trick to keep things organized: Label each door and drawer with painterโs tape so you know exactly where everything belongs when putting it all back together.
Step 2: Clean Cabinets Before Sanding
Grease, dust, and food splatters build up over time, especially in kitchens. Sanding over dirty cabinets clogs the sandpaper and keeps paint from adhering properly.
A mix of warm water and dish soap is usually enough for light buildup, but for stubborn grease, try a degreaser or vinegar and baking soda. After cleaning, let the cabinets dry completely before moving to the next step.
Step 3: Pick the Right Sandpaper Grit
Not all sandpaper is the same, and using the wrong grit can either damage your cabinets or fail to remove enough of the old finish. Hereโs a guide to choosing the right grit:
| Grits | Purpose |
|---|---|
| 60-80 grit | Best for stripping off thick, old paint layers. |
| 100-120 grit | Works well for smoothing out rough wood and prepping glossy surfaces. |
| 150-180 grit | Helps eliminate small imperfections and gets cabinets ready for primer. |
| 220 grit | Creates a fine, polished surface, ideal before painting. |
| 320 grit | Perfect for sanding between coats for a silky-smooth finish. |
For detailed cabinet designs, a sanding sponge is great for getting into crevices. For large, flat surfaces, an orbital sander will save you a lot of time.
Step 4: Sanding the Right Way
Sanding isnโt about just rubbing sandpaper back and forth. Always sand in the direction of the wood grain to prevent scratches that will show through the paint.
If your cabinets have multiple layers of old paint, a heat gun can help loosen the finish before sanding. Just be carefulโtoo much heat can damage the wood. Start with a coarse grit and gradually move to a finer grit for the best results.
Step 5: Remove All Sanding Dust
Skipping this step can ruin your paint job. Even tiny dust particles can create bumps and imperfections in the final finish. Before priming, be sure to:
A dust-free surface will give you a clean, smooth paint application.
Step 6: Apply a Primer for a Strong, Even Finish
A high-quality primer makes all the difference in cabinet painting. It helps paint stick better, prevents stains from showing through, and creates a consistent base.
For the best results, use a sprayer or foam roller instead of a brush. Once the primer is dry, lightly sand with 320-grit sandpaper for an ultra-smooth surface before applying the paint.
Step 7: Lightly Sand Between Coats for a Flawless Finish
This step makes all the difference. Lightly sanding between coats of primer and paint removes small imperfections and helps each layer bond together smoothly.
Use fine 320-grit sandpaper or a sanding sponge, then wipe away the dust before applying another coat. Taking this extra step gives cabinets that factory-finish look.
Why Sanding Cabinets the Right Way Matters
Skipping or rushing through the steps for sanding cabinets can leave you with peeling paint, rough textures, and an uneven finish. Taking the time to sand correctly ensures a durable, professional-quality finish that holds up over time.
If sanding and painting feels overwhelming, hiring an expert cabinet painter can save time and guarantee a flawless result.
Procoat Painting San Diego: Your Cabinet Painting Experts in Coronado, CA
Sanding and painting cabinets takes patience and skill, but you donโt have to do it alone. If you want a professional finish without the hassle, the experts at Procoat Painting San Diego are here to help.
We specialize in cabinet painting in Coronado, CA, delivering beautiful, long-lasting finishes with precision and care. Whether youโre in La Mesa, La Jolla, or Chula Vista, weโll ensure your cabinets look flawless and stay that way.
Call Procoat Painting San Diego today at (619) 404-2620 for a FREE estimate, and letโs give your cabinets the perfect finish!
