Get Pro-Level Durability with Lacquer Paint on Kitchen Cabinets

If you're looking to give your kitchen a makeover that will stand the test of time, lacquer paint offers unmatched durability and a smooth, glass-like finish for cabinets. Compared to traditional enamels and latex paints, lacquer provides a harder, thicker, and more resilient finish that brings out the natural beauty of wood grain. Read on to learn why more and more professional painters recommend lacquer paint for kitchen cabinets.

We'll compare the benefits of lacquer vs. other paint options, explain proper preparation and application, and give tips for caring for your lacquered cabinets. If you want cabinetry with a flawless, pro-level finish, lacquer is the clear choice.

Lacquer Paint Overview

What is Lacquer Paint?

Lacquer paint consists of lac resin dissolved in a solvent, which dries to a durable, waterproof, and transparent coating when applied to wood or metal surfaces. The lacquer dries much harder than standard paints and varnishes.

Most lacquer today comes in a sprayable formula, allowing for an ultra-smooth finish. While mainly used for wood finishing, lacquer paint can also be used on kitchen and bathroom cabinets, furniture, and other interior architectural surfaces.

Benefits of Lacquer Paint for Cabinets

There are many reasons lacquer paint is a top choice of professional painters for kitchen cabinet refinishing:

• Extreme durability and hardness - Won't scratch, chip or peel
• Thick, smooth, glass-like finish
• Repels water, grease, and stains
• Resilient - can expand and contract with wood
• Enhances natural wood grain
• Won't yellow over time

The remarkably hard finish of lacquer makes kitchen cabinets highly resistant to everyday bumps, spills, and cleaning. The deep, glassy appearance brings out the full beauty of cabinet wood.

Drawbacks of Lacquer Paint

While lacquer paint has many benefits for kitchen cabinets, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:

• More expensive than standard latex and oil-based paints
• Requires professional spray application
• Off-gasses strong fumes during application that necessitate protective equipment

The extra cost can pay off in the long run, however, with a finish that stays protected and beautiful for years with minimal upkeep.

Why Choose Lacquer Paint Over Enamel or Latex?

Kitchen cabinets take a beating and need a finish that can stand up to heavy use and cleaning. Here's how lacquer outperforms other leading paint options:

Advantages Over Enamel

• More moisture-resistant - Repels water and grease
• Higher gloss potential - glassy rather than satin appearance
• Thicker coating for added protection
• Won't turn yellow over time like oil-based enamels

While enamel provides a hard finish, lacquer offers even greater durability and moisture resistance - important in kitchens. The thicker coating also better conceals cabinet imperfections.

Advantages Over Latex

• Much harder and more scratch-resistant
• More flexibility to move with wood cabinetry
• Self-levels better, resulting in smoother finish

Latex paint is soft, prone to chipping, and less ideal for the wear and tear of kitchen cabinets. Lacquer offers extreme hardness and smoothness.

Preparing Cabinets for Lacquer Paint

While lacquer paint provides a durable finish, careful preparation is key to achieving professional results. Here are some tips to prep cabinets before lacquering:

Cleaning and Sanding

Thoroughly clean cabinet surfaces with a degreasing agent to remove any oils, grease, or grime that could impair paint adhesion. Lightly sand surfaces to improve lacquer adhesion. Fill any cracks, nail holes, or imperfections with wood filler and sand smooth.

Priming

Most professional painters recommend applying 1-2 coats of a lacquer-specific primer before painting. Primer enhances paint adhesion, evens out porosity differences, and conceals any remaining flaws. Be sure to let primer fully cure before painting.

Hiring a Professional Painter

While an ambitious DIY-er can successfully paint cabinets with latex paint, lacquer paint poses some challenges for amateur painters:

• Requires an HVLP spray system for application
• Necessitates extensive safety precautions due to fumes
• Multiple coats often required
• High level of skill needed for flawless finish

Professional painters have the specialized spray equipment, protective gear, and experience to expertly apply lacquer for a smooth, streak-free finish. They also know tricks to efficiently apply multiple coats to full coverage.

How Much Does Professional Lacquer Painting Cost?

On average, expect to pay $6-$10 per square foot for professional lacquer painting of cabinets. The total cost depends on:

• Cabinet size/layout
• Required preparation work
• Number of coats needed
• Painter's overhead costs

While pricier than a standard latex paint job, keep in mind that lacquer offers a much more durable and professional-grade finish.

Caring for Lacquered Cabinets

While lacquer paint creates an incredibly hard finish, lacquered cabinets do require some special care to keep looking their best:

• Allow lacquer at least 1-2 weeks to fully cure and harden before regular use
• Use only mild, non-abrasive cleaners and soft cloths to clean
• Avoid scrubbing or scouring which can damage the finish
• Re-coat worn areas as needed to renew waterproofing and luster

With proper care and maintenance, a lacquer paint job can keep your kitchen cabinets looking flawless for many years. Avoid harsh cleaners, steam, or moisture which can lead to fogging or hazing of the finish over time.

How Long Does Lacquer Paint Last?

With proper prep work, application, and maintenance, a quality lacquer paint job can last 5-10 years before needing re-coating. The extreme hardness provides exceptional resistance to scrapes, scratches, grease, spills and regular cleaning.

Color Options

While lacquer paint imparts a clear, protective coating over cabinet wood, it comes in a full spectrum of opaque colors. The ultra-smooth finish allows the vibrant hues to have a deep, liquid-like appearance.

Some tips for choosing lacquer cabinet colors:

• Pastel and white shades may require extra coats for opacity
• Darker colors show more dust and may require more maintenance
• Neutrals like gray, beige and taupe work well in most kitchens
• Consider undertones that coordinate with countertops and floors

Talk to your painter about the best lacquer color options for your particular cabinetry and kitchen decor.

Safety Considerations

While the cured lacquer finish is harmless, lacquer paint does involve some safety considerations during application, due to the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs):

• Work in properly ventilated area to allow fumes to dissipate
• Wear an OSHA-approved respirator to avoid inhaling vapors
• Use protective apparel like suits, gloves and goggles
• Carefully follow all manufacturer safety recommendations

Outgassing of VOCs is most prominent as the lacquer is drying. Once cured, it no longer emits chemical vapors. Proper safety steps minimize risks.

If you're planning to paint your cabinets, skip the standard latex and enamel options and go for long-lasting lacquer. With its unmatched durability and ultra-smooth finish, lacquer offers a professional-grade solution that makes your kitchen look its best for years to come.

While lacquering kitchen cabinets takes some skill, the dazzling results are well worth having the work performed by a professional painter. For cabinetry that withstands busy kitchens with minimal upkeep, lacquer paint can't be beaten.

Does your kitchen need a makeover that will last? Consult with experienced lacquer painters in your area to see how this versatile, protective finish can enhance your space. Your cabinets will become a centerpiece that wows rather than shows wear.