Cabinets are one of the most noticeable thing in a kitchen. They shape the overall structure, decide the colors, and determine the style. Although there are various types, styles, and arrangements of cabinets, the choices for surface finishes are quite limited.
Are you planning a kitchen remodel but unsure whether to go for stained or painted cabinets?
In this article, we will guide you through the decision-making process and help you select the best type of kitchen cabinetry for your home. With a few expert tricks up your sleeve, you’ll be able to choose a cabinet finish that enhances the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.
Before we delve into the advantages and disadvantages of painted and stained cabinets, let’s understand what sets them apart from each other.
The most significant difference lies in the treatment of wood grain. Stained cabinets color the natural wood grain, while painted cabinets cover it entirely, rendering the grain invisible.
Stained cabinetry is typically associated with natural wood tones such as tans and browns, although grey stains are gaining popularity.
On the other hand, painted cabinets offer a wider range of options, including whites, grays, and unique accent colors like teal, navy blue, or sea-foam green.
The choice of wood species used in their construction influenced the cost difference between painted and stained cabinets. While a stained birch or maple cabinet may cost similar to a standard painted one, exotic woods like mahogany or cherry can significantly increase the price.
It’s important to note that the choice of wood species matters only when staining the cabinets, not when painting them. Therefore, if you plan to paint over the wood, investing in expensive wood species would be unnecessary. Stained cabinets have the potential to be more expensive, but you can still find affordable options that meet your budget.
Refinishing cabinets also comes into play. Repainting is generally less expensive than restaining because the former involves a simpler process of cleaning and light sanding, while the latter requires stripping and sanding before applying the new stain. Consequently, restaining costs about 30% more than repainting, making it a pricier option.
Durability is a critical factor when selecting cabinet finishes. Painted cabinets offer better resistance to damage, as the paint layer provides some protection against dings and scratches.
However, stained cabinets excel in concealing minor damage because of their natural color variation and character. Slight blemishes may be less visible on stained surfaces.
Maintaining cleanliness is another aspect to consider. Painted cabinets require regular cleaning to keep them looking fresh, while stained cabinets, although less demanding in terms of cleaning frequency, are more prone to long-term damage and stains if neglected.
Choosing a cabinet finish that aligns with your taste and home style is crucial in achieving a visually appealing kitchen. Fortunately, most cabinet manufacturers offer both stained and painted options across their product lines, making it easier to find a suitable match.
Contemporary style in kitchen design embraces sleek, clean lines, minimalism, and a focus on functionality. For cabinet choices, painted cabinets in light or dark grays are popular options to achieve a contemporary look.
Gray is a versatile color that complements many kitchen elements, such as countertops, backsplashes, and flooring. Light gray cabinets can create an airy and open feel in the kitchen, while dark gray cabinets can add depth.
Both options work well in contemporary settings by providing a neutral backdrop that allows other design elements to stand out.
Another way to introduce a modern touch to your kitchen is by using lighter wood stains with white or yellow undertones. You can apply these stains to natural wood cabinets to give them a fresh look. Lighter wood tones bring warmth and a sense of natural beauty while maintaining a clean aesthetic.
Timeless charm and a sense of warmth set apart traditional aesthetics in kitchen design. For a traditional look, darker wood stains like cherry, walnut, and oak are excellent choices.
These stains bring a classic appeal to the cabinets, adding a touch of luxury to the kitchen. While, white painted cabinetry remains a timeless option that complements traditional designs, creating a clean and bright ambiance.
Traditional cabinets feature raised panel doors, decorative molding, and intricate details, showcasing craftsmanship and adding a sense of sophistication to the overall design.
Ornate hardware in brass or bronze finishes enhances the traditional look. Other elements that contribute to the traditional aesthetic include natural stone countertops like marble or granite, classic backsplashes with subway or patterned ceramic tiles. And lighting fixtures with ornate details such as chandeliers or pendant lights.
Two-tone cabinetry has become a popular trend in kitchen remodels. It involves combining different colors or finishes for the upper and lower cabinets to create an eye-catching contrast. One popular approach is pairing white wall cabinets with navy blue base cabinets, which adds depth and visual interest to the kitchen. Another option is introducing an accent color through an island installation, which can serve as a focal point in the space.
If you’re having difficulty finding two stains that complement each other, you can explore alternative options. One possibility is selecting two different paint colors for the cabinets. This allows for more flexibility in terms of color choices and opens up a wider range of design possibilities.
Another approach is combining a paint color with a stain, which can result in a unique and harmonious look. This combination allows you to incorporate the natural beauty of wood with a pop of color.
When implementing two-tone cabinetry, it’s essential to consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Ensure that the chosen colors or finishes complement the existing elements, such as countertops, backsplashes, and flooring.
Your lifestyle and specific circumstances should also influence your decision-making process when selecting a cabinet finish.
If you have young children or live an active lifestyle, your cabinets are more likely to experience wear and tear. Stained finishes, with their ability to withstand more abuse before showing significant damage, are an excellent choice for families in this stage. Alternatively, consider laminate cabinets with their durable outer shell.
For families with older children, painted cabinets may be a more suitable option. While minor mishaps may occur, painted cabinets often handle occasional scuffs better than stained ones.
When deciding between painted and stained cabinets for your kitchen remodel, consider your style preferences, budget, and lifestyle. Painted cabinets offer a wide range of colors, better resistance to damage, and easier cleaning. Stained cabinets showcase natural wood grain, conceal minor blemishes, and can be more affordable. Choose a finish that complements your home’s style, and consider stained cabinets for families with young children or an active lifestyle, while painted cabinets may be suitable for families with older children. Select the option that creates a beautiful and functional kitchen space.