Does your kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom feel outdated? If so, a fresh coat of paint could give the space a fresh, modern look without breaking the bank. Whether you opt for a crisp white, earthy green, or bold navy, painting cabinets can transform a room without requiring a full remodel. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to tackle this project with confidence.

Why Paint Your Cabinets?

Affordable Makeover — Painting cabinets costs a lot less than replacing them, especially if they’re in good condition, saving you potentially thousands of dollars. 

Custom Look — When painting cabinets, you can choose the exact color and finish that fits your style and desired aesthetic, whether you prefer a trendy color or a unique combination. You can modernize a dated kitchen, complement new countertops, or refresh an existing style. 

Increased Home Value — A fresh coat of paint on kitchen cabinets can boost a home’s appeal and potentially increase its value, especially if done well and paired with updated hardware. 

Quality Preservation — Painting cabinets allows you to preserve the quality and structure of your existing ones while updating their look. It also reduces the risk of damaging your countertops. 

Sustainable Options — Instead of sending your old cabinets to the landfill, give them a refresh. Painting cabinets requires fewer resources, generates less waste, and extends their life. 

What You’ll Need

Before you start, gather your supplies:

Screwdriver — A screwdriver helps you remove hardware and doors

Degreaser or TSP Cleaner — A degreaser helps you efficiently clean the cabinets before painting.

Sandpaper —  Sanding your cabinets before painting gives you a smooth surface to work with. Opt for 120-220 grit. 

Painter’s Tape — This tape protects areas you don’t want painted on.

Drop Cloths — Drop cloths protect your floors and surrounding areas from spills.

High-Quality Primer — A primer provides a good base for the paint to adhere to.

Cabinet Paint — Opt for a latex or alkyd-based, satin or semi-gloss finish. 

High-Density Foam Roller or Angled Brush —  A roller and angled brush provide efficient coverage on larger surfaces. You may also opt for a paint sprayer to provide a smooth, professional finish.

Step-by-Step Process

Prep Your Cabinets 

If you want a flawless finish, you need to prep well. Make sure you:

• Remove doors, drawers, and hardware.
• Label each door and drawer to avoid confusion later.
• Clean all surfaces with a degreaser to remove built-up grime.
• Lightly sand to dull the existing finish and improve paint adhesion. 
• Wipe away dust with a tack cloth. 

Prime Them For Success

Use a high-quality bonding primer designed for cabinets, especially if you’re painting over wood, laminate, or a glossy surface. The step prevents peeling and improves durability. Allow it to dry completely before applying any paint, and, for a smooth finish, lightly brush over the wet primer in the direction of the grain. 

Paint with Care

When painting cabinets:

• Start with the back of the cabinet doors to avoid drips.
• Use a foam roller for smooth, streak-free results.
• Use an angled brush for detailed areas.
• Overlap brush strokes slightly while the paint is wet to blend them and avoid brush marks. 
• Let each coat dry fully before applying the next. Two coats are typically recommended. 
• Remember to apply thin, even coats.

Let It Cure 

While the paint may feel dry to the touch within a few hours, full curing can take several days or even several weeks. Handle your cabinets gently during this time to avoid dents or fingerprints. If you want to test if your cabinets have cured, gently press your fingernail in an inconspicuous spot, and if it leaves a mark, it’s not fully cured. 

Reassemble and Enjoy

Once all your cabinets have dried and cured, reattach the hardware and doors and hang your cabinets back up. Then you can step back and admire your beautifully updated space. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid

No Sanding — Don’t skip the sanding step. Even minimal sanding can improve adhesion.

Using Wall Paint — When painting cabinets, use cabinet-grade paint as it’s more durable and resistant to chips.

Rushing Reassembly —  Allow your cabinets to dry and cure properly before putting them back together. 

If you are afraid of making a mistake, you can opt for a professional paint job. This will guarantee a flawless finish and save you any headaches. 

Painting Your Cabinets — A Cost-Effective, Easy Upgrade

Painting cabinets requires patience and attention to detail, but the reward is well worth the effort. With the right preparation, tools, and techniques, you can achieve a beautiful finish that transforms your space and adds value to your home.

When it comes to maintaining the exterior of your home, even small details make a big difference. One area often forgotten, until there’s a problem, is the trim or casing around your doors and windows. If you’ve noticed cracking, peeling paint, or soft, rotting wood, you should take action. Replacing your rotting wood casing with durable PVC casing will protect your home and boost your curb appeal for years to come.

Why Is Your Wood Casing Rotting?

Wood casing gets exposed to the elements day in and day out. Rain, snow, humidity, and even harsh sunlight can take a toll over time. If moisture seeps into cracks or unsealed areas, fungi can start to grow and cause the wood to rot from the inside out. This not only looks unsightly but can also lead to more serious structural issues if left unaddressed. 

Why Choose PVC Casing?

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) casing has become an increasingly popular choice for exterior trim — for good reason. It offers several advantages over traditional wood:

Corrosion and Rot Resistance — PVC is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, which is a major advantage in environments where it might be exposed to moisture or chemicals. In addition, PVC, unlike wood, won’t absorb water, so it’s immune to rot and decay. 

Weather Resistance — PVC is resistant to weathering, including UV radiation from sunlight, ensuring its integrity over time, even when exposed to the elements. 

Chemical Resistance — PVC can withstand exposure to a wide range of chemicals, making it suitable for various industrial and construction applications. 

Durability — PVC casing can withstand impacts and abrasions, making it a reliable choice for demanding environments. 

Low Maintenance and Clean Look — This casing doesn’t need to be painted (unless desired) and won’t crack, split, or warp. It also maintains a crisp, finished appearance for years with minimal upkeep. 

Pest Resistance — Termites and other wood-loving pests won’t be interested in destroying your trim. 

Cost-Effective — PCV is generally more affordable than other materials like steel, making it a budget-friendly option. It also provides long-term savings because you won’t have to replace it periodically due to rot. 

How the Replacement Process Works 

If you’re handy, you may be able to replace your wood casing with PVC yourself. Otherwise, you’re better off having a professional handle it quickly and efficiently. Here’s what the process typically looks like:

Inspection and Removal — Identify the extent of the wood rot and the underlying cause. Carefully remove the rotting wood casing, taking care not to damage the surrounding siding or structure. Ensure the window or door frame is structurally sound. 

Prep the Area — Remove any loose debris or damaged material from the opening. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before installing the PVC trim. Consider using a sealant or primer on the exposed wood to further protect it from moisture. 

Cut and Fit New PVC Casing — Select PVC trim boards that match the size and profile of the original wood trim. Cut it to the correct length and mitre the corners at a 45-degree angle for a seamless fit. PVC can expand and contract with temperature changes, so proper installation is essential. 

Install the PVC Casing — Apply a trim adhesive or sealant to the back of the trim piece and secure it to the framing using corrosion-resistant nails or screws. You may also need to use PVC adhesive to provide additional durability.

Finish and Seal — Caulk the seams and joints between the trim and the surrounding surfaces to create a watertight seal. If desired, PVC casing can be painted with 100% acrylic exterior paint to match your home’s color scheme; however, it’s not necessary due to its inherent color and resistance to weathering.

Long-Term Benefits

Swapping out rotting wood casing with PVC provides more than a quick fix; it’s an investment in your home’s appearance and protection. With minimal maintenance, your new PVC trim will keep your windows and doors looking beautiful for many years and reduce water damage, pest infestations, and costly repairs down the road. 

PVC Casing — The Best Solution for Rotting Trim

Replacing wood casing with PVC not only eliminates the ongoing headache of wood rot and maintenance, but it also adds long-lasting beauty and protection to your windows and doors. Whether you want to tackle this as a DIY project or hire a professional, investing in PVC casing means fewer repairs, improved curb appeal, and peace of mind for years to come. Don’t wait until the damage spreads — take care of your home today. 

Need help replacing your wood casing with PVC? Contact Rosewood to get the job done right.

A fresh coat of paint not only instantly improves your home’s curb appeal but also provides a vital layer of protection against the elements. Whether you’re tackling the job yourself or hiring a professional, understanding the painting process can help ensure you have long-lasting, beautiful results. In this guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about exterior painting.

Why Exterior Painting Matters

Exterior paint provides many benefits for your home, including: 

Moisture Prevention — Paint protects your siding and other exterior surfaces from moisture damage, which can lead to rot, mold, and mildew. 

UV Protection — Exterior paint shields your home’s surfaces from the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays, preventing fading and deterioration. 

Pest Deterrent — A fresh coat of paint can deter insects and pests from entering your home through cracks and crevices. 

Extreme Weather Resistance — Paint provides a layer of protection against harsh weather conditions like rain, wind, or snow. 

Enhanced  Quality — Regular painting extends the life of your siding, trims, and other exterior surfaces, preventing costly repairs down the road. 

Improved Aesthetics — A well-maintained exterior makes your home more attractive and inviting, increases your home’s market value, and boosts your pride in your home. It also lets you express your personal style. 

Increased Energy Efficiency — Some paints can help reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption, potentially lowering energy bills. 

When to Paint the Exterior of Your Home

The ideal time to paint depends on your local climate, but generally:

• Every 5 to 10 years for most homes
• Every 3 to 7 years for homes with wood siding
• Every 15 to 20 years for homes with fiber cement siding or brick (if painted)

Look for signs it’s time to repaint:

Fading or Discoloration — Color that appears full or washed out could be a sign of degrading paint.

Cracked or Blistering Surfaces — Imperfect surfaces could indicate that the paint is no longer adhering properly to the surface. 

Bubbling Paint or Mold, Mildew, or Water Stains — These can indicate moisture trapped under the paint, which can cause damage. 

Chalking — When paint degrades and leaves a chalky residue on your hands when touched, it’s time for a new coat. 

Choosing the Right Exterior Paint

High-quality paint provides the best durability and protection. Consider:

1. Type of Paint 

Acrylic — This paint is popular for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to cracking and fading. It’s breathable, allowing moisture to escape and preventing peeling and blistering. 

Latex — Latex paint is water-based, offering good performance, easy clean-up, environmental friendliness, and ease of use. This paint is also less prone to yellowing over time. 

Oil-Based — Oil-based paint is less common today due to environmental regulations and the preference for water-based alternatives. However, it does offer great adhesion, durability, and a smooth finish. This paint works best for doors, wrought iron, and trim details. 

2. Sheen Options

Flat/Matte — This type of paint offers a non-reflective, smooth finish, so it is often used on siding to minimize imperfections and glare. It’s less durable and harder to clean than other sheens. 

Satin/Eggshell — Satin and eggshell sheens are a popular choice for exterior siding because they hide surface imperfections. They are easier to clean, stand up better to abrasions, and can be more easily cleaned. 

Semi-gloss/Gloss — This sheen is the easiest to clean, making it ideal for trim, doors, and other high-touch areas. It repels dirt and adds richness; however, it can magnify surface imperfections. 

3. Color Selection

Your color selection should complement your roofing, landscaping, and neighborhood aesthetic. Lighter shades reflect light and make your home appear larger, while darker shades can highlight architectural features. 

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

DIY — Doing it yourself can save you money and give you personal satisfaction. However, it can be time-consuming and come with safety risks when using ladders/scaffolding. It also requires the proper equipment that may be hard or expensive to acquire. 

Professional — Professional painters have access to specialized tools to give you high-quality, even results. Their extensive experience allows them to be faster and more efficient. Some companies may also provide a warranty or guarantee on their work. While it may be more costly up front, professional painting can save you money in the long run. 

How to Extend the Life of Your Exterior Paint

Once your home has a fresh coat of paint, make sure you:

• Clean siding annually
• Touch up minor chips and cracks promptly
• Keep shrubs and trees trimmed back
• Inspect caulking around windows and doors regularly

This will keep your property’s exterior looking good for many years. 

Exterior Painting — Protection and Beauty for Your Home

Exterior painting allows you to make a big impact when it comes to the outside of your home. With the right paint choices, you can enjoy a stunning, long-lasting finish that boosts your curb appeal and protects your investment.

Need help with your next exterior painting project? Contact Rosewood for expert advice and professional service.