When you are searching for a new house in Locust Grove or considering a remodel of your current kitchen, one of the first things people think about are the kitchen cabinets.  Trends might come and go, but kitchen cabinets should last a long time.  While there are different types of of materials that cabinets can be made out of, the finish on the cabinets comes down to two options-paint or stain. The choice between stained cabinets or painted cabinets always seems up for debate.  Which one is better? More durable? Will feel current longer?  That answer to these questions might depend on a few factors like your personal tastes, usage of kitchen, and budget.

Stained cabinets: the benefits and drawbacks

Stains have historically been a popular treatment for kitchen cabinets.  Stained cabinets can highlight the natural grains of wood and all the character that comes with it.  They can add warmth and a cozy feeling to a space.  When I am out showing multiple homes, I am sure to find at least one house in Locust Grove with stained cabinets. While white cabinetry continues to be a popular choice, there are trends moving toward cabinets with natural stain finishes.

Benefits of stained cabinets

Stain finishes can be a more durable option in the kitchen.  It is easier to touch up a spot of stain than paint.  You can blend more than one shade of stain to color match a blemished area.  Dirt isn’t as easily noticed on stained cabinets either.  There are many different color choices when it comes to stains as well.  It is important to know the type of wood that the stain will be placed on because the same color of stain will look different on various types of wood.   While the type of wood selected for kitchen cabinets can vary in cost, typically stained cabinets are a less expensive option than paint.

Drawbacks of stained cabinets

Stained cabinets highlight the grains in the wood; they also highlight any imperfections.  While some homeowners prefer this, others do not.  Cabinets that have been stained a dark color also show dust more easily.  If you are considering redoing the kitchen cabinets at you house in Locust Grove, it will be important to know the type of material you already have.  Cabinets with MDF fronts won’t take the stain well and the finished product doesn’t look as natural as real wood.

Painted cabinets: the benefits and drawbacks

Painted white cabinets have been a popular trend for homeowners who were searching for a way to lighten and brighten their kitchens.  Whether you hire professionals or do it yourself, painting cabinets is a way to really change the vibe of a kitchen.

Benefits of painted cabinets

Painted cabinets create a clean background for other elements in the kitchen.   With no wood grains peeking through, these cabinets are ideal for homeowners that are searching for a flawless finish. Since paints come in every shade imaginable, you can personalize your kitchen with a favorite color.  If the cabinets in the kitchen are made of MDF, then paint is a great way to refresh them.

Drawbacks of painted cabinets

Painted cabinets can be more expensive than stained ones.  Depending on the type of wood that the cabinet is made from, additional steps need to be taken to cover the grain.  Painted cabinets can also show dirt more easily and are susceptible to chipping.  It can be harder to touch up these damaged spots especially if the color of the paint was not an off the shelf choice.  While you paint cabinets yourself, it is a time consuming process and requires the right equipment.

How do I chose between stained or painted cabinets?

Selecting the right type of finish for your kitchen cabinets can be a tough choice. My best suggestions are to try to select something that fall in line with your overall expectations of your home. Is this your forever home that you plan on living in for a very long time? Is this home just a temporary spot until you move? Knowing this can help you select cabinets.

If you are going to be in this home for a long time, then pick the cabinets that you love and fit in with your personal style. If you see yourself moving in the short term, select timeless cabinets like white Shaker style that won’t feel too dated in several years would be more appealing to the buyers who look at your house in Locust Grove. Less trendy choices provide greater longevity to the fresh feeling of a kitchen.