Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of upgrading your kitchen cabinets? You don’t need to break the bank to make your kitchen look great – read on for some tips and tricks on how to upgrade your cheap cabinets without spending big!
Assessing the Condition of Your Current Cabinets
Before making any decisions about upgrading your kitchen cabinets, it is essential to assess the condition of your current cabinets. If they are still in good shape, you may be able to repurpose them instead of replacing them entirely.
To evaluate the condition of your cabinets, take the time to examine every aspect, including the outer frame, interior shelves, and drawers. Be sure to inspect from all angles to identify any wear and tear that needs attention. Additionally, look under the sink for signs of water damage or mold that may have developed over time.
Once you have assessed the cabinets, you can decide if they are worth repairing or if a replacement is necessary. If you do decide to replace your cabinets, consider working with a reputable kitchen cabinet provider.
They can help guide you through the process, from selecting the best cabinets for your needs to installation and final touches. With their expertise, you can feel confident that you are investing in high-quality cabinets that will serve you well for years to come.
Cleaning and Sanding the Cabinets
Before you start upgrading your kitchen cabinets, the first step is to thoroughly clean and sand them. This process will help remove built-up grime and dirt and will leave the surface smoother for painting or staining later on.
- Use a degreaser to clean away old oils and grease, then use soap and water to give it a good scrub down.
- When you have wiped away any excess moisture with a cloth, use an electric sander or sanding block with medium-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the cabinets until they are smooth to the touch.
- Again use a damp cloth followed by a dry one to remove all dust particles, ensuring that no trace of dirt remains before moving on to the next step of your upgrade.
Painting or Staining the Cabinets
Painting or staining your kitchen cabinets is a great way to refresh and refresh the look of the space without shelling out for a total renovation. If you have cheap cabinets, this is a relatively inexpensive and easy process that you can often do yourself.
It all starts with prepping the cabinets, which involves taking off all the drawer and door knobs, washing them down thoroughly with an all-purpose cleaner, lightly sanding them so that the paint adheres better, then wiping away any dust residue. When you’re finished prepping, it’s time to lay out drop cloths and get to work!
Using either latex or oil-based paints (check with your local paint store for advice), start at the back of each cabinet and use even strokes when painting. This will ensure that each part of your cabinet looks consistent.
Once you have finished painting one side of each cabinet section, allow it to dry completely before flipping them over to finish off the other side. Once you have painted both sides of all your cabinet components, reassemble them and replace any hardware that was removed from cabinet doors or drawers during prep work.
If staining is more to your taste than painting, bear in mind that less color variation can be achieved using this method than is available using paints. Apply an even layer of stain using either a brush or cloth – then allow it to dry completely before moving on.
Afterward, apply the sealer with an even coat – usually, 2-3 coats depending on how much protection is desired – sanding lightly between coats as necessary with fine-grit sandpaper (around 220 grit).
Updating Hardware and Knobs
Updating hardware and knobs is an easy way to get a fresh look without overhauling your kitchen cabinets. These details may not seem like a big deal, but they can really make your cabinetry stand out.
Start by selecting new hardware such as hinges and handles or knobs, which come in both traditional and contemporary styles. Choose pieces that complement the color of the cabinetry to create a cohesive look while adding some flare to the room. Installing new hardware that is more substantial than what came with the cabinets can also add a touch of elegance.
To complete the transformation, be sure you have all of the necessary mounting items such as screws and drill bits. For simple installation, many knob manufacturers even offer installation templates that mark exactly where holes need to be drilled so everything lines up properly. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the successful installation of your new upgrades!
Adding Trim and Molding
Adding trim and molding to your existing kitchen cabinets is a relatively easy upgrade that can add a substantial decorative touch. It’s not difficult to do and using trim to separate different cabinetry elements can create the look of custom cabinets.
First, you’ll need to measure and cut the trim pieces. It’s good practice to dry-fit first before adhering. Plywood molding, like crown moldings, is one of the best options because they are light and pliable, yet are able to support its own weight without sagging.
Choose your material depending on the look you’re going for – vinyl strips make great dividers between drawers and create a unified look while slightly more expensive materials such as pre-finished MDF (medium-density fiberboard) are another easy-to-install option.
After measuring your cabinet space for fitment and cutting for each piece, then use wood glue or screws with pre-drilled pilot holes. It’s important, not over-tighten screws as it can either dent or warp the wood.
Depending on your cabinet style you may choose a wide selection of ready-made trims as options available in home improvement centers or online stores such as wainscoting, rosettes, mantels, brackets, runners, etc that have been designed just for this purpose.
Additional items useful may include:
- Sandpaper
- Clear finish
- Nails or screws
- Caulking gun
- Caulk
- Liquid nails
Installing New Doors and Drawers
Upgrading the look of your kitchen can add value to your home and make your cooking space more enjoyable. One way to do this is to replace outdated, drab-looking cabinets with new doors and drawers. While a complete cabinet replacement can get quite expensive, there are some affordable ways to change the look of any kitchen.
- Start by measuring out the existing cabinet openings, then shop around for pre-made doors and drawers that will fit those measurements. Since they come in a variety of sizes and styles, it shouldn’t be too difficult to find the perfect ones for your space.
- Once you have the right style and size, remove the old doors and drawer fronts, then install the new ones in their place. To ensure they open and close easily, use a drill bit to make pilot holes for any screws that may be needed.
- Some inexpensive cabinets come with hinges already attached but lack knobs or handles; it’s easy to switch these out for something more modern or perhaps matching knobs for all cabinets in one room. Just be sure that whatever hardware you choose is durable enough for daily use as well as aesthetically pleasing in accordance with the rest of your kitchen décor.
Installing New Countertops
To complete the look of a renovated kitchen, installing new countertops is a great option. This can usually be done in one day and can instantly modernize the look of your space.
When installing new countertops, it’s important to factor in the cost of materials and installation labor. Countertops come in both natural stone and engineered stone materials, with engineered being significantly more affordable than natural. Depending on which material you choose, there are also different sizes and thicknesses, as well as color and finish options to choose from, including solid colors or marble-patterned finishes for a more classic look.
Installing new counters typically involves:
- Attaching them to existing cabinets by drilling holes in the backsplash.
- Capping off the edges with plastic or wooden corner trim pieces.
- Covering any exposed butt seams on top surfaces with waterproof sealing options like exterior silicone caulk.
- Applying a layer of sealant over the surface prior to use to protect against damage caused by hot pots/pans or other everyday use items.
Once all these steps have been completed you should have beautiful brand new counters!
Incorporating Open Shelving
Open shelving is a great way to upgrade existing, dated cabinets and give your kitchen a modern feel. It also saves space in areas where wall storage is unavailable.
To incorporate open shelving, you will need to:
- Measure the desired shelf width and height.
- Ensure that the chosen mounting structure can support the weight of all items placed on the shelves.
- Choose an appropriate shelf material (including wood boards, metal brackets, etc.).
- Drill holes before mounting the bracket and attaching the shelf to it.
A great way to use open shelving is by painting or staining the mounted bracket and shelves for a custom look that stands out from other cabinetry in the space. Open shelves also allow for visually appealing displays of everyday items like coffee mugs, cookbooks, spices, or plants – a practical and aesthetically pleasing approach to inexpensive kitchen improvement projects.
Conclusion
Upgrading your kitchen cabinets can give your kitchen a facelift without breaking the bank. Whether you are looking to repaint, restain, or reface your cabinetry, the goal should be to make sure the job is done properly and with care. Rushing through and not taking the proper time to prepare can risk damaging high-quality materials or even end up costing you more in the long run.
Remember that preparation is key – being sure of measurements, having a plan of attack, and having all needed materials close by will help ensure success in any project. Most importantly, take pride in your workmanship; no matter how grand or small a project may be, it should reflect its creator’s individuality.
