Choosing Cabinet Stains
Refinishing the look of your kitchen can be as simple as a new coat of stain or paint on your cabinets, but there are many different types to choose from. Whether you have brand new wood in your kitchen, or you have older cabinets you are trying to refresh, each type of stain has its advantages. At Distinctive Cabinets we can help you choose which type of stain is right for your home and family.
Eco-Friendly Stains
Eco-friendly means that these methods are better for the environment and the air inside of your home. These types of products also tend to be the most traditional types of natural finishes. Products such as linseed oil, beeswax and safflower oil are all healthy for your home environment, however these finishes can be an undertaking. There are also synthetic options that mimic these natural results, however be sure to check the label to make sure it is low VOC (Volatile Organic Compound). These are used on unfinished wood to bring out the natural grain and give the wood some protection, but not necessarily from scratches.
Wood Stains and Dyes
Wood stains and dyes add color that sinks directly into unfinished wood, however it does not add scratch protection by itself. If you’d like to change the color of your existing cabinets, this is an option, however remember that since this sinks into the wood grain itself, it can be hard to remove or go any lighter once applied. This does mean you can customize the color of your cabinets to fit the décor you desire. There are natural, water-based and oil-based types of these stains, but be sure to use one that is for indoor use. Coats of clear protective products can also be added once your stain is dried to give different sheens and protection from scratches and dings from your kiddos running around the kitchen.
Varnishes
Varnishes can come in all tints, textures and are made from all different materials. What they all have in common is that they are all a hard protective coat that can either save your older cabinets’ characteristics or protect and enhance the new finish you just added. Multiple layers of varnish can be added to either create a different look or to enhance the durability of the coat. Remember though that the more coats of varnish that are applied, the more difficult they are to remove. Water-based products are low odor and easier to apply, while oil-based are more durable but can be difficult to work with.
Alternate Options
If you’re looking to change the look of your cabinets without actually stripping and staining them, there are other options. One of the easiest and quickest ways is to paint your cabinets. While this can be a fix for many homes, you will lose the characteristics of your wood grain and color. You can make the paint style glossy, flat, distressed or antiqued, so your options are many. Be sure to properly prep and clean all surfaces and use an indoor paint. Another advantage is that you can keep extra paint of the same lot on hand to cover up any scratches that may happen over the years.
Glazes on already finished cabinets can add a unique look too. A glaze is a semi-transparent wash of color applied over the existing finish that offer a less consistent finish. Where the glaze sinks into depressions in the wood it creates a darker spot creating contrast in the look.
Remember, when choosing the type of stain or finish for your cabinets, or redoing your cabinets to refresh your kitchen, the needs of your kitchen and family come first. From gorgeous natural, hand-rubbed finishes to durable varnishes, there are many options, and Distinctive Custom Cabinets of Green Bay can help you choose yours!