Painted kitchen cabinets can look absolutely beautiful, providing a fresh and modern facelift for your kitchen. However, because cabinet paint finishes are susceptible to damage from moisture, grease, and daily wear and tear, many homeowners wonder whether they need to add an extra layer of protection with a sealant. Here is a detailed look at whether it is recommended to seal painted kitchen cabinets.
What is Cabinet Sealer?
A cabinet sealer is a protective coating that is brushed or sprayed over stained or painted cabinetry. Sealers soak into the wood pores and form a thin protective barrier that prevents stains from penetrating the finish and provides resistance to moisture damage.
There are two main types of cabinet sealers:
- Polyurethane – This is an extremely durable sealer that provides a thick plastic-like coating. Oil-based polyurethane is considered more durable than water-based.
- Acrylic – Acrylic sealers offer decent protection at a lower cost. They dry faster but do not provide as thick of a coating as polyurethane.
Sealers come in different sheens including glossy, satin, and matte. Glossy offers the most protection while matte provides more of a flat, subtle finish.
Why Seal Painted Kitchen Cabinets?
There are a few key reasons you may want to seal newly painted cabinets:
- Moisture resistance – The thin sealant layer helps prevent moisture from penetrating the painted finish and causing swelling, warping, discoloration or peeling. This is especially important for cabinets around the sink and dishwasher.
- Stain resistance – Sealant forms a protective barrier that prevents oils, food stains, and greases from soaking into the paint. This makes the cabinets much easier to clean.
- Enhanced durability – The extra coat hardens the paint finish and makes it more scratch, chip, and scuff resistant. This is useful in high-traffic areas and for cabinets with children.
- Richer finish – Sealers enhance the look of paint by evening out the porosity differences and providing a more uniform, luxurious sheen.
When to Avoid Sealing Cabinets
Sealing kitchen cabinets is recommended in most cases, but here are a few instances when you may want to avoid it:
- If you used a high-quality cabinet paint that already contains sealers, such as Benjamin Moore’s Advance.
- For minor touch-ups on previously painted cabinets that don’t have an existing sealer.
- If you painted with milk paint, chalk paint, or powder-coated finishes which can lose their distinctive matte look if sealed.
- On antique or distressed cabinet finishes where you want to maintain the worn, vintage look.
Overall, sealing provides better protection and longevity for common latex and enamel cabinet paints. But if you used a specialty finish or are looking to maintain a particular worn or vintage aesthetic, you may want to skip the sealer.
How to Seal Painted Cabinets
Sealing cabinets is a relatively easy process but does require care and proper preparation:
Cleaning
Clean all cabinet surfaces with a deglosser or mild soap and water to remove any grease, dirt or dust that could prevent the sealer from adhering.
Sanding
Lightly sand painted cabinets with 220 grit sandpaper to scuff up the surface and allow the sealer to penetrate.
First Coat
Apply a thin, even first coat using a high-quality natural bristle brush. Allow to fully dry per manufacturer instructions.
Second Coat
Apply the second coat using a clean brush, following the wood grain direction. Allow extensive drying time before use.
Curing Time
Most sealers take 1-2 weeks to fully cure. Avoid placing any heavy objects on cabinets during this time.
Topcoat (Optional)
For added protection, an additional 1-2 coats can be applied following the same application process.
Maintenance Tips
- Use coasters and trivets to protect the sealed finish from hot pans and dishes.
- Immediately wipe up any spills or splatters to prevent staining.
- Reseal cabinets every 2-3 years to maintain the protective barrier.
- Use a gentle cabinet cleaner and soft cloth when cleaning. Avoid abrasive scrubs.
- Hand wash sealed cabinets rather than using harsh dishwasher detergents.
Conclusion
Sealing painted cabinets provides an extra level of protection by defending against moisture, stains, and wearing for long-lasting beauty. For most standard latex and enamel cabinet paints, applying one or two coats of a quality sealer is recommended. But specialty paint finishes may not require sealing to maintain their desired look. With proper prep and application, sealing can help your painted kitchen cabinets look fresh for many years before needing to be refinished.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I use water-based or oil-based sealer on kitchen cabinets?
Oil-based sealers generally provide better moisture protection and a more durable finish. But water-based sealants have less odor, dry faster, and clean up easier with water. Either type will work, but oil-based is best for high use kitchens.
How long does cabinet sealer last?
With proper prep and application, a quality polyurethane or acrylic sealer can last 2-5 years before needing to be reapplied. Durability depends on use, exposure, and maintenance.
Can I use polyurethane over acrylic paint?
Yes, as long as the acrylic paint has fully cured first. Lightly sand and clean the paint before applying the polyurethane for maximum adhesion.
Should I thin the sealer before applying?
Thinning is usually not required, but check the manufacturer instructions. If thinning is desired, only use the solvent recommended and test on an inconspicuous spot first.
How many coats of sealer should I apply?
Typically 2-3 thin, even coats of sealer are ideal for painted cabinets. But always follow the specific product application directions. Applying too much sealer can lead to drips, imperfections or tacky areas.