What's Better: Stained Or Painted Cabinets?
Are painted cabinets better than stained ones? Which will look better? Which one will last longer? What’s more expensive?
Stains bring out the natural beauty in wood cabinets, and with different stain colors available, they can fit into almost any kitchen color scheme. Paints offer more color variety with more coverage and vibrancy.
But which is really better? Keep reading to find out!
Is It Better To Paint Cabinets Or Stain Them?
When you’re thinking about what’s better between painting and staining your cabinets, what really matters is the look you want for your kitchen cabinets and the room as a whole.
Stained cabinets are best when you want to keep the natural wood look but want it to be a little different. Stains slightly alter the color of the wood, leaving the texture of the wood grain intact. This gives off a much more dated or traditional vibe than painted cabinets.
If you want bold colors and full coverage, paint your cabinets. Wood must be super-smooth for the paint to look really good, which means removing the natural texture, typically creating a more modern feel, but that depends more on color choice.
Also, think about what your cabinets are made from. For example, pressboard and plywood cabinet doors won’t look any better stained because there’s no wood grain to show as there would be with oak or maple cabinets.
Are Painted Or Stained Cabinets More Popular?
Painted cabinets are typically more popular. But, again, it really comes down to the style you’re looking for. For example, a naturally inspired kitchen will clearly look much better with stained cabinets than painted ones.
Most Popular Stain Colors
Light Oak
Walnut
Natural Cherry
Cedar Brown
Most Popular Paint Colors
Charcoal
White
Mint Green
Navy Blue
What’s More Expensive: Staining Cabinets Or Painting Them?
Painting is 15% more expensive than staining on average. The average cost of professional cabinet painting sits at around $7000 for 100 square feet while staining costs just short of $6000.
Even if you paint your own cabinets, it will still cost more. Paint costs much more and takes more time due to the extensive prep wood needs for the paint to look its best.
Do Painted Or Stained Cabinets Last Longer?
Stains typically last longer than cabinet paint. They can last up to 10 years, while cabinet paint usually lasts up to 7 years. Stained cabinets also look better, even when it’s passed time to update. Since wood stains soak into the wood, they don’t show age, whereas paint chips and peels.
Still Aren’t Sure If Should Have Painted Or Stained Cabinets? Hire A Pro To Help!
If you’re still unsure whether to paint your cabinets or stain them, we can help! You can trust our team of experts to help you decide which is best for your cabinets, kitchen, and yourself.
Benefit from our experience, then watch us make your cabinets brand new again with our refinishing process! Contact Quality Cabinet Coatings to learn more.
