Archive for August, 2024

To Paint or Replace Cabinets? How to Know

Posted on: August 23rd, 2024

If your kitchen is looking dated, you may wonder whether you should paint or replace cabinets in your kitchen. Both options can help you refresh your kitchen, but the cost and amount of work vary for each. Cabinets are an important component to any kitchen. They provide both functional storage and aesthetic appeal. 

Deciding to paint or replace cabinets can be a difficult choice, which is why we’ve put together this guide to help you make the decision. We’ll break down the costs of repainting and replacing kitchen cabinets, as well as cover the process for each.

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Cost to Repaint Kitchen Cabinets

One thing to consider when deciding whether to paint or replace cabinets is how much it’s going to cost you. If your cabinets are in decent shape, repainting may be a good choice. Repainting your kitchen cabinets will cost you significantly less than replacing them while still providing a big impact. 

The cost to repaint your kitchen cabinets will depend on a number of factors, including the size of your space and whether or not you hire a professional. The average cost to hire professional painters is usually between $3 to $10 per square foot, or $30 to $60 per linear foot, and $50 to $100 per door. This includes labor and materials. All in all, you may end up spending between $900 to $3,800 to repaint your cabinets. 

If you’re looking to handle the project on your own, you can save a ton of money. If you decide to DIY your kitchen cabinets, expect to pay between $200 and $600 for paint and supplies. However, you pay for that with your own time. Repainting your cabinets can take between 30 to 35 hours of preparation, and up to 22 hours of painting. Plus, you may not get the same flawless results as you would with professional painters.

Cost to Replace Kitchen Cabinets

In comparison, replacing your kitchen cabinets will be much more costly than repainting. Replacing the cabinets is a labor and materials-intensive process. However, replacing your kitchen cabinets can be worth it if your cabinets are in bad shape or you’re looking for a completely new layout. 

The cost to replace kitchen cabinets will depend on a number of factors, including the materials you select, the size of your kitchen, and whether you opt for premade or custom cabinets. Kitchen cabinets come in a wide range of materials. Wood veneer and laminate cabinets are on the cheaper end, while wood, acrylic, and stainless steel cabinets will cost you much more. Wood veneer cabinets can start around $2,000 while stainless steel will run at least $25,000 to start. 

The size of your kitchen is also a huge factor. Kitchen cabinets are typically priced per linear foot rather than square feet. This measurement is taken based on the overall length the cabinets will span on the wall. If you have upper and lower cabinets, you’ll need to calculate the linear length of both. New kitchen cabinets will cost anywhere between $2,200 and $24,600, with the average homeowner spending $8,200. Stock cabinets range between $110 to $300 per linear foot, including labor. Semi-custom cabinets range between $150 and $670 per linear foot, and fully custom cabinets range between $470 to $1,230 per linear foot. 

If you’re looking to DIY your own cabinets, you’re still going to have to pay the cost for the new cabinets, but you can save on labor. Professionals typically charge between $40 to $100 per hour, with each cabinet taking around an hour to install. If you’d like to install the cabinets on your own, you can expect to pay anywhere between $2,000 and $20,000. However, cabinet installation requires a lot of skill. If you do it wrong, you might end up with uneven cabinets or cabinets that end up pulling away from the walls. 

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How to Repaint Cabinets

Whether you’re going to paint or replace cabinets in your kitchen, both processes take a considerable amount of work. Still, it’s worth the results. Repainted cabinets will refresh your kitchen with minimal work, while replacing the cabinets will fully change the look. 

Here are the steps you’ll need to take to repaint your kitchen cabinets: 

Tools Needed:

  • Screwdriver
  • Painter’s tape
  • Drop cloths or plastic sheeting
  • Lint-free cloths
  • Degreaser
  • Wood filler (if needed)
  • 120-grit and 220-grit sandpaper
  • Primer
  • Paint
  • Paintbrushes and rollers
  • Paint tray
  1. Remove doors and hardware using the screwdriver. Make sure to keep track of all the parts. You may even want to label each door and its corresponding hardware. 
  2. Clean the surfaces. Use a degreaser or a mix of warm water and soap to remove grease, dirt, and grim. This will help the paint properly adhere. 
  3. Fill any holes or dents with wood filler. Let it dry, then sand the filled areas. Sand all surfaces lightly with 120-grit sandpaper. This will create a rough surface for the primer to stick. Wipe down the surfaces afterward. 
  4. Prime the cabinets. Use a brush for detailed areas and a foam roller for larger, flat surfaces. Let the primer dry completely. 
  5. Lightly sand the dried surfaces with 220-grit sandpaper to remove any brush marks. Wipe down the surfaces.
  6. Paint the cabinets. Apply the first coat of paint in thin, even coats to avoid drips. Let the first coat dry completely, then lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper. Clean off the dust and apply the second coat. Repeat if needed for full coverage. 
  7. Let the paint cure. Depending on the type of paint used, this could take a couple of days. Proper curing is essential for a durable paint job. 
  8. Once the paint has cured, reassemble the cabinets. Reattach the hardware and hang the doors. Make sure everything is properly aligned. 

Tips: 

  • Work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes.
  • Consider using a paint sprayer for a super smooth finish. 
  • Use high-quality paint for better coverage. 

How to Replace Cabinets

Replacing cabinets involves several steps and can be a big project. Still, it’s a project you can manage with careful planning and the right tools. Here’s a guide for replacing your cabinets:

Tools needed:

  • Measuring tape
  • Screwdriver or drill
  • Stud finder
  • Level
  • Shims
  • Pry bar
  • Utility knife
  • Cabinet screws
  • Clamps
  • Drop cloths or protective covering
  • New cabinets
  • Cabinet hardware
  • Caulking gun and caulk
  • Painter’s tape
  1. Measure the space where the new cabinets will go, including the height, width, and depth. Make sure the new cabinets will fit. Plan the layout of your new cabinets, keeping in mind the placement of appliances, windows, and doors. 
  2. Remove the old cabinets. Turn off the power and water, if necessary. Remove the cabinet doors and drawers by unscrewing the hinges and pulling them out. Detach the cabinets from the wall by unscrewing the screws that secure them to the studs. Use a pry bar to gently remove the cabinets from the wall. Be careful not to damage the drywall.
  3. Prepare the area. Inspect the walls for any damage and repair any holes. Locate the studs in the wall using a stud finder and mark them with painter’s tape. 
  4. Install the upper cabinets first. Make a level line on the wall where the bottom of the upper cabinets will sit. Use a level to ensure accuracy. Pre-drill holes in the cabinets for the screws that will attach them to the studs. Life the first cabinet into place, aligning it with your level line. Secure it to the wall with screws driven into the studs. Make sure all cabinets are level and plumb as you go. You can use shims if needed to make adjustments. Once the upper cabinets are in place, install the lower cabinets.
  5. Install the doors and drawers on your new cabinets, making sure to align them properly. Add any hardware like handles or knobs. You may need to drill holes for new hardware if the cabinets didn’t come pre-drilled.
  6. Fill any gaps between the cabinets and the wall or between cabinets with caulk. Check that all doors and drawers open and close. Reinstall countertops and appliances, if necessary. 
  7. Clean up. Remove any protective covers and clean your workspace. Touch up paint or caulk as needed. 

Conclusion

When deciding whether to paint or replace cabinets in your kitchen, you have a number of factors to consider. If your cabinets are in good shape and just need a new shade, repainting the cabinets may be a good choice. This saves you the most money while still having a big impact on your kitchen. 

However, if your cabinets are not functional or you don’t like the layout, you may want to replace them. When making the decision, you’ll want to consult professionals for quotes and determine your budget. 

If you’re looking for contractors to handle the job, LNL Construction is here to serve. With our skilled and honest contractors, we’ll revitalize your kitchen to make your vision come to life. We offer both cabinet painting and replacement, as well as our many other remodeling services. Contact us today for an estimate!

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How To Dispose Of Paint In California and Paint Recycling

Posted on: August 6th, 2024

Have you ever wondered how to dispose of paint in California? Is it necessary? The state of California has some of the strictest environmental laws in the nation when it comes to paint disposal. If you’ve got half-empty cans of latex paint or old oil paint, there are specific rules you need to follow to throw the paint away. California paint disposal protocols are slightly different than those in other states, so it’s important that you make sure you take the appropriate steps.

In this article, we will outline everything you need to know about properly disposing of paint in California. If you need help with home painting or other home renovation in the Sacramento area, click the button below to request a quote. 

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How To Dispose Of Paint In California

First off, it is important to know that it’s illegal in the state of California to throw paint of any sort away in a landfill. You also aren’t permitted to pour paint down the drain since paint is a hazardous material. Since oil-based paint is a hazardous material, it needs to be disposed of properly. Latex paint is presumed hazardous in California, so it needs to be treated in a similar manner. 

California has created a paint stewardship program to handle the collection, recycling, and disposal of paint.

Disposing Of Oil-Based Paint

Since oil-based paint is a hazardous material, the only option for safe disposal in any state is to take it to a hazardous material collection center. California’s Paint Stewardship Program handles the collection of paint, so all you have to do is find a PaintCare drop-off center in your area. These centers typically accept up to five gallons of paint per drop-off.

Disposing Of Water Based Latex Paint

In many U.S. states, latex paint can be thrown out with other solid waste once it has fully dried. However, in California, there are different regulations for disposing of water-based latex paint. You’re not allowed to intentionally dry it out on your own. You need to take old latex paint to one of California’s many paint drop-off locations. In cases where you find the latex paint has accidentally been allowed to dry out on its own, you still need to take it to an appropriate location.

Where to dispose of paint in Sacramento

In the Sacramento area, there are a few different options for proper paint disposal. First, you can go to the PaintCare website to find a drop-off location at one of the area’s many paint retailers. Sacramento County also has a number of regional Household Hazardous Waste facilities that accept old paint.

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How Long Can You Store Paint After It’s Opened?

Most paint, once it has been opened, lasts between two to five years. Some factors that could influence the life of your paint include your environment and temperature. Taking the right precautions when you store it will ensure that it lasts longer.

Does Paint Go Bad?

Paint that hasn’t been opened has a long shelf-life. Unopened oil-based paint has a shelf life of fifteen years, and unopened latex-based paint has a shelf life of ten years. However, unopened paint can still go bad. You can determine if your paint has gone bad by checking several different signs. Properly stored and sealed oil-based paint is much less susceptible to spoilage than latex paint, but it’s still important to check.

For oil-based paint, here are some of the signs the paint is spoiled:

  • Texture: Curdles, lumps, or a stringy texture are usually good indicators that the paint is bad.
  • Separation: Look for separation of solids and liquids. If the paint doesn’t mix well after stirring, the paint has probably gone bad.
  • Mold or Mildew: Mold or mildew on the surface of the paint is a sure sign that the paint is spoiled.
  • Smell: If your paint has a foul or rancid odor, it has gone bad.

For latex paint, here are some signs that the paint is spoiled:

  • Consistency: If your paint has an extra thick or rubbery texture, it has probably gone bad.
  • Separation: If your paint mixes well, it’s probably okay. However, if the paint still has lumps in it after you have stirred it, you probably don’t want to use the paint.
  • Smell: A strong or foul odor usually indicates the paint has spoiled.

If you notice any of these signs, don’t use the paint because it won’t perform well and won’t give you the results you are hoping for.

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Can You Store Paint in the Garage?

Your garage is generally not the best place to store your leftover paint. Garage spaces are subject to temperature fluctuations, and paint that’s been exposed to temperature fluctuations tends to go lumpy. Lumpy paint should be taken to a PaintCare center or other hazardous waste collection site. 

Where Should You Store Paint?

Ideally, paint should be stored in a cool, dark, dry, space where the temperature is typically between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. This could be a closet, basement, or cabinet that’s out of reach of pets and children. If you store your paint in your basement, make sure to put it on a shelf in order to avoid moisture from the floor rusting and damaging the cans. It’s also important to keep your paint out of direct sunlight, as light can alter the color of glass containers.

Other helpful storage tips include:

  • Seal containers. Make sure your paint can or container is tightly sealed in order to prevent exposure to air. If paint does get into the rim, be sure to clean it out before replacing the lid. Use a rubber mallet to hammer the lid back in place for a good seal.
  • Label clearly. If you are storing your leftover paint in a container other than the one it came in, be sure to label it with the paint color, date, and application. A helpful hint that helps to make touch-ups much easier and more accurate is to not only label the can, but also to label the back of the light switch in the room you’ve painted with: the brand of paint, color, type, or product name, finish/sheen, and what you’ve painted in the room ( for example wall, piece of furniture, door frame, etc).
  • Keep it upright. Store your containers upright in order to prevent leakage and maintain a proper seal.
  • Store off the ground/floor. Keep your paint containers elevated in order to avoid contact with a cold or damp floor. As we stated earlier, a damp floor can rust and damage your paint cans/containers. 
  • Check paint regularly. It’s a good idea to periodically check your stored paint for any signs of separation or spoilage. Stir or shake your paint gently to restore consistency, if needed.
  • Transfer paint. If you have cans that are only partially filled, you can transfer the paint to quart cans or jars. If you’re not using the original paint can store your paint in a container not much bigger than the amount of paint that you have left to limit air exposure. You can also minimize the paint-air contact by putting a clear plastic film cover over the surface of your leftover paint. 

How To Store Paint During A Project

Sometimes you may find yourself in the middle of a project when you need to take a break for a short time. In a situation like this, you can easily store your paint for the short term ( a few days up to a week) by simply resealing the can immediately and keeping the paint in a temperature-controlled environment where it is not exposed to direct sunlight.

How To Dispose Of Paint In California and Paint Recycling Conclusion

Now you have the facts and know how to properly dispose of paint in California. California prohibits the disposal of paint of any kind in water or on land. In short, this means that you can’t throw out old paint with your garbage. Instead, you’ll need to find a PaintCare or household hazardous waste collection site near you. Proper storage of unused paint will increase its shelf life. Be sure to properly seal your paint containers, keep them somewhere between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and out of direct sunlight, store them off the floor, and label them.

If you have any questions about painting your home or any remodeling project, contact us at LNL Construction today. We have years of experience and expertise and would love to help you transform your home into the space you have been dreaming of.

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