Whether you are a homeowner in Oakville who is simply refinishing your cabinets or getting an entirely new kitchen remodel, one of the decisions you will have to make is whether you would like to have stained cabinets or painted ones. Both types are durable and can help your kitchen to look amazing. And each results in an entirely different look.

Since your kitchen cabinets are such a prominent part of your kitchen, you will want to take some time to consider which look appeals to you most and which look you can see yourself living with for years to come. In the end, there is no right choice. It really comes down to your personal sense of style. Nevertheless, there are a few differences you should be aware of.

Kitchen Design

Perhaps the most obvious consideration when choosing between stained and painted cabinets is how they will fit into your overall kitchen design. Stained wood cabinets can give a warm and traditional look, and you never have to worry about them going out of fashion. However, if you already have hardwood floors in your kitchen, having stained wood cabinets may simply be “too much” wood.

Paint, on the other hand, can work with a variety of styles. White paint can be used in both traditional and contemporary kitchen design, or you may choose a bolder colour if you are looking to make more of a statement.

Cabinet Material

Paint may be applied to any type of cabinet including both wood and MDF (medium density fibreboard). It gives a smooth and uniform appearance. Stain, on the other hand, can only be used with natural wood cabinets (so depending on the cabinets you have, your choice may already be made for you). Stain is much thinner than paint and it allows the natural grain of the wood to show through.

Maintenance

Both stain and wood cabinets are fairly low maintenance and easy to clean. When it comes to repairing scratches, however, stain is the easier of the two to deal with as it can be easily repaired with a touch up marker. Painted cabinets are trickier because the finish is sprayed on rather than brushed on (giving it it’s uniform finish). It is very difficult to touch up a surface that has been spray painted.

Cost

In terms of cost, painted cabinets will generally run you about 15% more than stained cabinets. So if you prefer the sleek look of paint, it is going to cost you a little extra.

So, is staining cabinets better than painting them? The answer to that question depends on you. But whether you prefer the look of stain and natural wood, a clean white painted kitchen or a funky colour, the experts at Trends Wood Finishing in Oakville are here to help. Contact us today for all your kitchen cabinet and wood finishing needs.