How To Cover My Kitchen Cabinets

October 24, 2021
By admin
Filed Under Kitchen Cabinets
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How to Cover Your Kitchen Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide

Are your kitchen cabinets looking worn, dated, or simply in need of a refresh? Instead of replacing them, consider covering them yourself – it's a cost-effective and rewarding project that can transform the look of your kitchen.

This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of covering your kitchen cabinets, including materials, techniques, and step-by-step instructions. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can achieve a professional-looking finish that will enhance the style and functionality of your kitchen.

Materials You'll Need:

Covering material (e.g., contact paper, sticky vinyl, laminate sheets, paint)
Measuring tape
Level
Straight edge or ruler
Utility knife
Scissors
Squeegee or smoothing tool

Techniques for Covering Cabinets:

1. Contact Paper:

Contact paper is an adhesive-backed paper that can be applied directly to cabinet surfaces. It's available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes. Choose one that complements your kitchen décor and provides the desired coverage.

2. Sticky Vinyl:

Similar to contact paper, sticky vinyl is a self-adhesive material that offers greater durability and a more seamless finish. It's also available in various styles and textures, including leather, granite, and woodgrain.

3. Laminate Sheets:

Laminate sheets are thin, durable panels that are applied to cabinets using adhesive or nails. They create a more permanent finish than contact paper or sticky vinyl and are resistant to heat, moisture, and scratches.

4. Paint:

Painting is a classic option for covering kitchen cabinets. It allows you to customize the color and finish to match your personal taste. However, painting requires more prep work and can be more time-consuming than other methods.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

The steps for covering kitchen cabinets vary slightly depending on the chosen material. However, the general process remains the same:

1. Preparation:

Clean the cabinet surfaces thoroughly to remove dirt and debris. Remove any hardware (e.g., knobs, handles).

2. Measurement and Cutting:

Measure the cabinet surfaces and cut the covering material to size. Leave about 1-2 inches of overhang on all sides.

3. Application:

For contact paper and sticky vinyl, peel back the backing and apply the material to the cabinet surface, smoothing it out with a squeegee or smoothing tool. For laminate sheets, follow the manufacturer's instructions for adhesive or nail application.

4. Trimming and Finishing:

Use a utility knife to trim any excess material around the edges. Reinstall the hardware and allow the covering material to adhere properly for the recommended time.

By following these steps and choosing the right materials and techniques, you can successfully cover your kitchen cabinets and give them a new lease of life. Enjoy the satisfaction of transforming your kitchen with your own hands!