When it comes to kitchen cabinets, painted finishes are a popular choice for their clean, fresh look. However, it’s important to remember that painted cabinets are prone to wear and tear over time, especially in a high-traffic area like the kitchen. That’s where a top coat comes in – it adds an extra layer of protection to your cabinets and helps them stand up to daily use. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at top coats for painted cabinets and explore some of the best options on the market.
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Why Do You Need a Top Coat for Painted Cabinets?
Painted cabinets are beautiful, but they can also be delicate. Without a top coat, your painted cabinets are vulnerable to scratches, stains, and other damage. A top coat adds an extra layer of protection to the surface of your cabinets, helping them withstand the wear and tear of daily use. Additionally, a top coat can enhance the finish of your painted cabinets, making them look even better than before.
Types of Top Coats for Painted Cabinets
There are several different types of top coats you can use to protect your painted cabinets. Here are some of the most popular options:
1. Polyurethane
Polyurethane is a clear, durable top coat that is often used on painted cabinets. It’s available in both oil-based and water-based formulations, and it can be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer. Polyurethane dries to a hard, glossy finish that is highly resistant to scratches and stains. However, it can turn yellow over time, especially if it’s exposed to sunlight.
2. Lacquer
Lacquer is a clear top coat that dries quickly and provides a durable, glossy finish. It’s often used on high-end cabinetry and furniture, and it’s available in both spray and brush-on formulations. Lacquer is highly resistant to scratches but is not as heat-resistant as some other top coats.
3. Shellac
Shellac is a natural, resin-based top coat that is made from the secretions of the lac beetle. It dries quickly and provides a hard, glossy finish that is highly resistant to scratches and stains. However, it’s not as durable as some other top coats, and it can be damaged by heat and water.
4. Wax
Wax is a natural, low-sheen top coat that is often used on painted cabinets. It provides a warm, rich finish that can enhance the natural beauty of the wood. However, wax is not as durable as other top coats, and it can be easily scratched or stained.
Best Top Coats for Painted Cabinets
Now that you know a little more about the different types of top coats available, let’s take a look at some of the best options for painted cabinets:
1. General Finishes High-Performance Top Coat
General Finishes High-Performance Top Coat is a water-based polyurethane that provides a durable, clear finish for painted cabinets. It dries to a hard, glossy finish that is highly resistant to scratches and stains. This top coat is also UV-resistant, which means it won’t yellow over time.
2. Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish
Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish is another water-based polyurethane that provides a clear, protective coating for painted cabinets. It dries to a hard, durable finish that is highly resistant to scratches and stains. This top coat is also low-odor and easy to clean with soap and water.
3. Varathane Triple Thick Polyurethane
Varathane Triple Thick Polyurethane is an oil-based top coat that provides a thick, clear finish for painted cabinets. It dries to a hard, glossy finish that is highly resistant to scratches and stains. This top coat is also self-leveling, which means it helps to smooth out any imperfections in the surface of your cabinets.
4. Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel
Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is a high-quality, oil-based top coat that provides a durable, clear finish for painted cabinets. It dries to a hard, glossy finish that is highly resistant to scratches and stains. This top coat is also self-leveling, which means it helps to smooth out any imperfections in the surface of your cabinets.
5. Annie Sloan Clear Wax
Annie Sloan Clear Wax is a natural, low-sheen top coat that is often used on painted cabinets. It provides a warm, rich finish that can enhance the natural beauty of the wood. This top coat is easy to apply with a brush or cloth, and it’s low-odor and easy to clean up with soap and water.
Choosing the Right Top Coat for Your Painted Cabinets
When choosing a top coat for your painted cabinets, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the type of paint you used on your cabinets – some top coats work better with certain types of paint than others. Additionally, think about the level of durability you need – if you have young children or pets, you may want to opt for a more durable top coat. Finally, consider the look you’re going for – some top coats provide a glossy finish, while others provide a more natural, low-sheen finish.
Tips for Applying Top Coat to Painted Cabinets
Applying a top coat to your painted cabinets is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure the best results. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Clean your cabinets thoroughly before applying the top coat to ensure that the surface is free of dust and debris.
- Apply the top coat with a brush or roller, working in thin, even coats.
- Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next coat.
- Sand lightly between coats to ensure that the surface is smooth and even.
- Apply at least two coats of top coat to ensure adequate protection for your painted cabinets.
In Conclusion
A top coat is an essential element of a painted cabinet project, providing a durable layer of protection for your cabinets and enhancing the overall look of your kitchen. There are several different types of top coats available, each with its unique benefits and drawbacks. By choosing the right top coat for your painted cabinets and following a few simple application tips, you can ensure that your cabinets look beautiful and stand up to daily use for years to come.
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