5 things to look for when hiring a Cabinet Painter
It is time!! You are finally ready to paint your cabinets. Now you get to do the hard work, picking colors, new hardware, and of course who will do the work? There are many differenet opinions and thoughts about cabient painting. Who does the work is important. We wrote this guide based on the most common questions people ask us about cabinet painting. Now we have the 5 things to look for when hiring a cabinet painter. It is not everything a homeowner needs to know, when hiring someone to repaint their cabinets, but it is the typical path taken.
Where to Find a Cabinet Painting Contractor
Finding the right cabinet painting contractor can start with a simple online search, but there are a few specific platforms and sources that make this process easier and more effective. Here are some reliable places to look:
- Google and Bing Search: These search engines provide ratings, reviews, and business information, helping you filter out contractors based on their ratings and distance.
- Home Improvement Websites: Websites like Angi (formerly Angie’s List), Houzz, and HomeAdvisor are geared toward homeowners looking for service professionals. These platforms often have detailed customer reviews and even showcase portfolios for many contractors, letting you see samples of their work before reaching out.
- Local Facebook Groups and Nextdoor: Often, homeowners who’ve had great (or not-so-great) experiences with contractors will share their insights in local groups. You can request recommendations from people who’ve had their cabinets painted recently, providing an insider’s view on local contractors’ quality.
- Referrals from Family and Friends: One of the best ways to find reputable cabinet painters is through word of mouth. Ask your family, friends, or neighbors if they know a reliable contractor who specializes in cabinets.
We say stay away from the ANGI, etc platforms because it is a pay to play platform. The more money someone spends the better ranks they have. Not that they dont do good work, but yu may find a better fit for you and your family, that will cost less, be more available and help the local contractor vs corporate national brands.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cabinet Painter
Hiring a cabinet painting contractor is more involved than just picking the first name that appears online. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Experience with Cabinet Painting: Cabinet painting isn’t the same as wall painting. It requires a specific skill set to get a smooth, durable finish. Look for contractors who specifically mention cabinet painting in their portfolio or website.
- Type of Paint and Materials Used: Some contractors specialize in eco-friendly paints or low-VOC finishes, which can be beneficial if you have children or pets. Many recommend brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore for durability and quality.
- Process and Technique: A good cabinet painter will usually have a multi-step process, which includes cleaning, sanding, priming, and then painting. A professional approach can prevent peeling, chipping, or uneven coverage.
- License and Insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured. If an accident happens on your property, a contractor with insurance provides peace of mind and ensures you won’t be financially liable.
Questions to Ask a Cabinet Painter
Asking the right questions helps you gauge the contractor’s professionalism, approach, and quality of service. Here are a few key questions:
- What Prep Work Do You Do? Preparing cabinets for painting is crucial to the final look. Ask if they remove doors, clean, and sand the cabinets, and whether they use primer.
- What Type of Paint Will You Use? High-quality paints like enamel or specialty cabinet paint are often used for kitchen cabinets due to their durability and cleanable surfaces.
- How Will You Handle My Space During the Project? Cabinet painting can be disruptive, so ask how they’ll manage dust control, protect surrounding areas, and whether they’ll be using your kitchen or garage for painting.
- How Long Will the Project Take? A well-done cabinet painting job will take a few days to a week, depending on drying times and the prep work required. If a contractor promises a quick, one-day turnaround, be cautious, as this may lead to rushed work.
- Do You Offer a Warranty or Guarantee? Quality contractors will stand behind their work. A one-year warranty on the paint job is common, but ask if there’s any protection for peeling or chipping.
What to Avoid When Hiring a Cabinet Painter
Avoiding certain behaviors or “red flags” can save you from poor-quality work or a frustrating experience. Here are some things to watch out for:
- No References or Portfolio: If a contractor can’t provide photos of past work or client testimonials, it might indicate they lack experience or a good reputation.
- Insistence on Cash Payments Only: Cash-only payments with no invoicing can be risky. A reputable contractor will offer clear pricing and multiple payment options for your security.
- Lowball Pricing: While everyone loves a good deal, an extremely low estimate may mean that corners will be cut on preparation, materials, or both. Cheap paint and minimal prep can lead to peeling and bubbling.
- No Written Contract: A clear, written contract helps protect both you and the contractor. It should outline costs, timeline, materials, and specific job details, so there’s no confusion.
- Rushed Work Promises: Cabinets require multiple coats and drying time to ensure a smooth, durable finish. Be wary of any contractor who promises an extremely fast job.
What Makes a Great Cabinet Painting Contractor?
A great cabinet painter has more than just skill—they bring professionalism, consistency, and reliability to each project. Here’s what to look for:
- Attention to Detail: Skilled cabinet painters take the time to remove doors, label and store hardware carefully, and use the right type of paint to get a flawless finish.
- Clear Communication: A quality contractor is happy to walk you through the process, answer questions, and update you on progress. They make sure you’re comfortable with the plan before work begins.
- Dedicated Workspace and Setup: Since cabinet painting can be messy, a dedicated workspace shows that the contractor cares about your home and values cleanliness and organization.
- Positive Reviews and Repeat Clients: Good contractors often have repeat clients and reviews that highlight their quality, reliability, and professionalism.
- Commitment to Customer Satisfaction: If the contractor has a clear approach to handling touch-ups or addressing any issues after the job is complete, it’s a good sign of quality service.
Final thoughts on hiring a cabinet painter
While these 5 things to look for when hiring a Cabinet Painter may not be the gospel, they are key to transforming your kitchen or bathroom, but it’s essential to choose the right one for your project. By considering experience, asking the right questions, and watching for red flags, you can find a skilled professional who will deliver a beautiful, long-lasting finish.
And remember, your cabinets are a significant part of your home’s style and functionality—choose a contractor who respects that and is committed to making your vision come to life.
