Ask any realtor what kind of home improvements will make the biggest difference in the value of a house and you will hear an almost unanimous answer – update and remodel the kitchen! Unfortunately, this is also one of the most expensive renovations that a homeowner can make as well. The good news is that a dramatic improvement can be made simply through wood restoration of the existing cabinets. It may not make the same visual impact as a complete remodel, but it also won’t put such a large dent in your wallet either.
In most homes, the kitchen is a well-used and high traffic area. Cabinets and drawers are constantly being opened and closed as your family members search for their favourite mug for their morning coffee, retrieve dishes to set the table for the evening meal and as curious little fingers quest to find some pots and pans to bang on.
It doesn’t take very long before stained or painted cabinets acquire faded areas and smudge marks giving your entire kitchen and old and worn appearance. This is where wood restoration comes in.
While some people may choose to take this on as a DIY task, it is important to take into account your own level of skill as well as the amount of time it will likely take for the non-professional. If you are planning this project in preparation to sell your home, it is recommended to hire a contractor to ensure you get the best possible results.
The first step in restoring stained cabinets depends on whether you would like a lighter or a darker tone. If you’d like to lighten the colour of your cabinets, it is important to first remove as much of the original stain as you can.
All cabinets being restored should be lightly sanded and cleaned. Before sanding any dents, cracks or defects should be filled in with a wood filler so that the finished result looks smooth and perfect. Finally, a polyurethane varnish in the colour of your choice is applied.
Once dry, a protective wood sealer is applied to the cabinets to ensure that that this new kitchen facelift lasts for as long as possible.
If your painted cabinets are looking a little on the tired side, you’ll be happy to know that these too can be restored.
The first step is removing the old paint with paint stripper. Then any deep scratches, dents, cracks etc. can be repaired with wood filler before your cabinets are sanded down, cleaned and repainted in the colour of your choice and then finally sealed.
While wood restoration is a fairly simple and inexpensive home renovation, you’ll be amazed at just how dramatic an impact it can make on one of the most important rooms in your home. If your cabinets have seen better days but are still serviceable, this is a great way to freshen up your kitchen once again.
The professionals at Trends Kitchen Cabinets and Woodworking would be happy to give new life to your wood cabinets. Call us today for a consultation.
*Oakville / Burlington Ontario
