How Many Gallons of Paint To Paint Kitchen Cabinets Guide?

The question of how much paint is needed for kitchen cabinets is best answered by saying it usually takes one to two gallons of paint for a standard-sized kitchen. However, the paint required for kitchen cabinets depends on factors like cabinet size, the number of coats, and the type of paint. This guide will help you accurately estimate the paint quantity for cabinet refinishing so you can buy the right amount for your kitchen cabinet painting project paint.

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Figuring Out the Paint You Need

Knowing how many gallons of paint for cabinets you will need before starting your DIY cabinet painting project will save you time and money. Running out of paint mid-project can cause delays and inconsistent finishes. Buying too much leaves you with unused paint taking up space. This section breaks down the estimating paint for cabinets process.

Step 1: Measure Your Cabinets

The first step is to measure all the surfaces you plan to paint. This includes:

• Cabinet Doors: Measure the height and width of each door. Multiply these measurements to get the area of each door in square inches.
• Cabinet Frames: Measure the exposed face frames of the cabinets (the parts that aren’t covered by doors). Calculate the area of each frame section.
• Sides of Cabinets: If the sides of your cabinets are visible and you plan to paint them, measure their height and width.

Keep a record of all your measurements.

Step 2: Calculate the Total Surface Area

Add up all the individual measurements to find the total surface area you will be painting. Convert all measurements to square feet by dividing the total square inches by 144 (since 1 square foot = 144 square inches).

Example:

Let’s say you have the following:

• 10 cabinet doors, each 12 inches wide and 24 inches tall
• Total door area: 10 doors * (12 in * 24 in) = 2880 square inches
• Face frame area: 6 square feet
• Side panel area: 4 square feet
• Total Area: 2880 sq in / 144 sq in/ft + 6 sq ft + 4 sq ft = 20 sq ft + 6 sq ft + 4 sq ft = 30 sq ft

Step 3: Check the Paint’s Coverage Rate

Paint coverage is how many square feet a gallon of paint will cover. This information is usually found on the paint can or the manufacturer’s website. Cabinet painting coverage varies depending on the type of paint and surface.

• Typical Coverage: Most paints cover around 350-400 square feet per gallon for one coat.
• Factors Affecting Coverage:
  • Paint Type: Some paints, like those with higher solids content, may offer better coverage.
  • Surface Porosity: Unprimed or very porous surfaces will absorb more paint, reducing coverage.
  • Application Method: Spraying usually uses more paint than brushing or rolling.
  • Color Change: Drastic color changes may require more coats, affecting the amount of paint you need.

Step 4: Determine the Number of Coats

Typically, painting kitchen cabinets requires at least two coats of paint for good coverage and durability. If you’re making a big color change or painting over a glossy surface, you might need three coats. Keep in mind that you will also need a primer coat.

Step 5: Calculate the Amount of Paint Needed

Now, use the following formula to calculate the amount of paint needed:

Total Surface Area (sq ft) x Number of Coats / Paint Coverage (sq ft per gallon) = Gallons of Paint Needed

Example:

Using the earlier example of 30 square feet:

• Total Surface Area: 30 square feet
• Number of Coats: 2 (plus 1 primer coat)
• Paint Coverage: 350 square feet per gallon
• Primer Needed: 30 sq ft / 350 sq ft/gallon = 0.09 gallons (approx 1 pint)
• Paint Needed: (30 sq ft x 2 coats) / 350 sq ft/gallon = 0.17 gallons (approx 1 quart)

In this case, a quart of primer and a quart of paint should be enough. For larger kitchens, you may need to scale up to a gallon of each.

You will need a primer and a top coat. Therefore, you would do this calculation twice – once for the primer and once for the paint.

Step 6: Account for Waste and Touch-Ups

It’s always a good idea to buy a little extra paint to account for waste, spills, and future touch-ups. A good rule of thumb is to add about 10-15% to your total estimate.

Additional Factors to Consider

Besides the basics, several other factors affect estimating paint for cabinets.

Paint Type and Quality

• Latex vs. Oil-Based Paint: Latex paints are water-based, easier to clean, and have lower VOCs (volatile organic compounds). Oil-based paints offer a harder, more durable finish but require more effort to clean and have higher VOCs. High-quality acrylic latex paints are often preferred for cabinets due to their durability and ease of use.
• Primer: Using a good quality primer is essential, especially when painting over dark or glossy surfaces. Primer helps the paint adhere better and can reduce the number of coats needed. Choose a primer specifically designed for cabinets.
• Paint Sheen: The sheen of the paint affects its durability and how easy it is to clean. Semi-gloss or satin finishes are popular choices for kitchen cabinets because they are easy to wipe down and resist stains.

Cabinet Material

• Wood Cabinets: Wood cabinets are common and can be painted successfully with the right preparation. Sanding and priming are essential to ensure the paint adheres well.
• Laminate Cabinets: Laminate cabinets have a smooth, non-porous surface that can be challenging to paint. Use a specialized primer designed for laminate surfaces.
• Metal Cabinets: Metal cabinets require a primer that prevents rust and promotes adhesion.

Application Method

• Spraying: Spraying provides a smooth, even finish and is often preferred by professionals. However, it requires more preparation (taping and masking) and can use more paint due to overspray. You will need a paint sprayer such as an airless paint sprayer or an HVLP (high volume low pressure) sprayer.
• Brushing and Rolling: Brushing and rolling are more DIY-friendly but can leave brush strokes or roller stipple if not done carefully. Use high-quality brushes and rollers designed for smooth finishes.

Color and Existing Finish

• Changing Colors: Drastic color changes (e.g., dark to light) require more coats of paint. Tinting the primer towards the final paint color can help improve coverage.
• Glossy Finishes: Glossy surfaces need to be sanded and primed to ensure the new paint adheres properly.

Step-by-Step Calculation Example

Let’s go through a complete example to show the full calculation process:

1. Measure the Cabinets:

   • 15 cabinet doors, each 14 inches wide and 30 inches tall
   • Total door area: 15 doors * (14 in * 30 in) = 6300 square inches
   • Face frame area: 10 square feet

   • Side panel area: 6 square feet
     2. Calculate Total Surface Area:
     

   • Door area in square feet: 6300 sq in / 144 sq in/ft = 43.75 sq ft

   • Total Surface Area: 43.75 sq ft + 10 sq ft + 6 sq ft = 59.75 sq ft
     3. Determine Number of Coats:
     

   • Primer: 1 coat

   • Paint: 2 coats
     4. Check Paint Coverage:

   • Primer: 350 sq ft per gallon

   • Paint: 350 sq ft per gallon
     5. Calculate Amount of Paint Needed:

   • Primer: (59.75 sq ft * 1 coat) / 350 sq ft/gallon = 0.17 gallons (approx 1 quart)

   • Paint: (59.75 sq ft * 2 coats) / 350 sq ft/gallon = 0.34 gallons (between 1 quart and ½ gallon)
     6. Account for Waste and Touch-Ups:

   • Add 10% waste:

     • Primer: 0.17 gallons + (0.17 gallons * 0.1) = 0.19 gallons
     • Paint: 0.34 gallons + (0.34 gallons * 0.1) = 0.37 gallons
       7. Final Amount:

   • Primer: 1 quart

   • Paint: 1 gallon (to be safe)

In this example, you’d buy 1 quart of primer and 1 gallon of paint to ensure you have enough for full coverage and touch-ups.

Tips for Accurate Estimation

To improve the accuracy of your paint estimation:

• Be Precise with Measurements: Accurate measurements are critical. Double-check your figures to avoid errors.
• Consider Cabinet Style: Intricate cabinet designs with raised panels or detailed molding will have more surface area than flat-panel cabinets.
• Factor in Interior Painting: If you plan to paint the inside of the cabinets, include these surfaces in your measurements.
• Consult with Professionals: If you’re unsure about any aspect of the estimation process, consult with a paint store professional or a painting contractor. They can provide valuable guidance based on their experience.
• Use a kitchen cabinet paint calculator: These online tools can quickly estimate the amount of paint you need based on your measurements and project details.

Kitchen Cabinet Paint Calculator Explained

A kitchen cabinet paint calculator simplifies the estimation process. These calculators typically ask for the following information:

• Number of Cabinets: The total number of cabinet doors and drawers you plan to paint.
• Cabinet Dimensions: Average height and width of your cabinet doors.
• Surface Type: Whether your cabinets are wood, laminate, or metal.
• Number of Coats: The number of primer and paint coats you plan to apply.
• Paint Coverage: The estimated coverage rate of your chosen paint (usually provided by the manufacturer).

The calculator then uses this information to provide an estimate of the amount of paint and primer you need.

Benefits of Using a Calculator

• Convenience: Quickly estimates paint needs without manual calculations.
• Accuracy: Reduces the risk of mathematical errors.
• Planning: Helps you plan your project and budget effectively.

However, always double-check the results and adjust as needed based on the specific details of your project.

The Cost to Paint Your Kitchen Cabinets

The cost of painting kitchen cabinets varies widely based on whether you DIY or hire a professional.

DIY Painting Costs

If you choose to paint your cabinets yourself, the primary costs include:

• Paint and Primer: $30-$100 per gallon
• Painting Supplies: Brushes, rollers, tape, drop cloths, sandpaper, etc. $50-$150
• Optional Supplies: Degreaser, wood filler, caulk, etc. $20-$50

Total costs for a DIY cabinet painting project can range from $100 to $300, depending on the size of your kitchen and the quality of the materials you choose.

Professional Painting Costs

Hiring a professional to paint your kitchen cabinets can cost significantly more but offers the benefits of expertise, efficiency, and a high-quality finish. Professional painting costs typically include:

• Labor: $50-$100 per hour
• Materials: Paint, primer, and supplies
• Project Size: The number of cabinets and the complexity of the job

Professional cabinet painting can cost anywhere from $500 to $1500+ for an average-sized kitchen, depending on the extent of the work and the location.

Ways to Save Money

Whether you DIY or hire a professional, here are some ways to save money on your cabinet painting project:

• Shop Around: Compare prices for paint, primer, and supplies at different stores.
• Buy in Bulk: If you have a large kitchen, buying paint in larger quantities can save money.
• Prepare the Cabinets Yourself: Save on labor costs by doing the prep work (cleaning, sanding, and priming) yourself before hiring a professional.
• Consider Refacing: If your cabinet boxes are in good condition, consider refacing instead of replacing the entire cabinet system.

FAQ: Paint Needed for Kitchen Cabinets

What is the best type of paint for kitchen cabinets?
High-quality acrylic latex paint is generally the best choice due to its durability, ease of cleaning, and low VOC content.

Can I use the same paint for cabinets and walls?
While you can, it is not recommended. Cabinet paint needs to be more durable and washable than wall paint.

Who is best suited to paint cabinets, a DIYer or a professional?
DIY is suitable for those with some experience and time. Professionals offer expertise and efficiency, especially for complex projects.

What is the first step in painting kitchen cabinets?
The first step is to properly clean and prepare the surfaces. This involves degreasing, sanding, and repairing any damage.

What is the difference between oil-based and water-based paint for cabinets?
Oil-based paint provides a harder finish but has higher VOCs and requires more effort to clean. Water-based (latex) paint is easier to clean and has lower VOCs, making it a popular choice for DIYers.

What is the recommended sheen for kitchen cabinets?
Semi-gloss or satin sheens are popular choices for kitchen cabinets because they are easy to clean and resist stains.

What is the average cost to have kitchen cabinets professionally painted?
Professional cabinet painting can cost anywhere from $500 to $1500+ for an average-sized kitchen, depending on the extent of the work and the location.

Can I paint over laminate kitchen cabinets?
Yes, but you need to use a specialized primer designed for laminate surfaces.

By following this comprehensive guide, you can accurately estimate how much paint to paint kitchen cabinets and ensure your kitchen cabinet painting project paint has a flawless finish.