If you’re thinking about a bathroom makeover, there’s no need to break the bank on a full bathroom remodel. Refreshing your vanity cabinets can give your space a new lease on life, and it’s simpler than you think.

Understanding the Power of a Vanity Bathroom Sink

Before diving into the nitty-gritty of refreshing vanity cabinets, it’s essential to understand the impact of a well-styled vanity bathroom sink. The vanity acts as the central piece that ties the entire bathroom together. It’s where aesthetics and functionality meet. And when chosen well, a vanity with a drawer can add more storage space without compromising on style. Brands like IKEA vanity bathroom have excelled in offering beautiful designs that blend seamlessly with any decor.

Reviving Your Vanity Cabinets

If your vanity cabinets have seen better days, here’s the good news: you don’t have to replace them entirely. A simple refinish can bring them back to life. Here’s how to refinish bathroom vanity like a pro:

1. Clean and Prep: Before starting any project, it’s crucial to have a clean surface. Wipe down your vanity cabinets, ensuring there’s no residue or grime left behind.

2. Sand: Using medium-grit sandpaper, sand the surfaces of the cabinet doors lightly. This step will help the new coat of paint adhere better and result in a smoother finish.

3. Prime: Once sanded, apply a primer suitable for the material of your cabinets. It helps in getting a more vibrant finish and prolongs the paint’s life.

4. Paint: Here comes the transformative part – adding a fresh coat of paint. Choose a moisture-resistant paint since it’s a bathroom setting. This coat will not only refresh your vanity cabinets but also protect them from humidity.

5. Finishing Touches: To seal the deal, add a clear sealant over the paint. This additional step will ensure your hard work lasts longer and resists the usual bathroom moisture.

6. New Hardware: Changing out old knobs and handles can have an almost magical effect on your vanity’s overall look. Choose styles that complement your bathroom’s aesthetics.

The Charm of a Vanity with Drawer

A bathroom’s aesthetics are important, but functionality plays an equally significant role, especially in a space where every inch matters. Refinished bathroom cabinets are indeed an aesthetic uplift, but the inclusion of a drawer brings a perfect blend of form and function. 

A vanity with a drawer provides a brilliant solution for those who crave order and organization. It becomes a treasure trove for storing toiletries, makeup, hair tools, and other bathroom essentials. Moreover, having everything neatly tucked away ensures that the vanity’s surface remains uncluttered, allowing for decorative items or frequently used products to shine. 

In essence, a drawer not only amplifies storage but also elevates the visual appeal, making the space look refined and well-kept.

Beyond the Vanity: Other Remodel Ideas

Although the vanity is the star, a full bathroom makeover includes other elements:

– New Lighting: Upgrade to modern fixtures to cast your refreshed vanity in the best light.

– Flooring: Consider updating your bathroom flooring to match your revamped vanity.

– Decor: Simple decor changes, like new towels or a stylish mirror, can elevate the entire bathroom’s ambiance.

Final Thoughts

Revamping your bathroom doesn’t have to involve a massive overhaul. Sometimes, refreshing one critical element, like the vanity cabinets, can make all the difference. And if you’re in the market for new cabinet doors or need ideas on vanity styles, there are myriad options out there to suit every taste and budget.

So, don’t wait! Give your bathroom the makeover it deserves by starting with your vanity cabinets. With the right tools and a splash of creativity, you can breathe new life into your space. Whether you’re going the DIY route or hiring professionals, remember: a well-maintained bathroom adds value to your home and enhances your daily routine.

The post How to Refresh Your Bathroom Vanity Cabinets appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

They’re opened and closed multiple times a day, and just like any frequently used item, they are prone to a few hiccups. Over time, their alignment may falter, they may not close properly, or they may even overlap with neighboring doors. 

These are common issues that, thankfully, can be fixed with a bit of know-how. This detailed guide will walk you through the process of how to adjust cabinet doors effectively, answering common questions, and diving deep into the nuances of adjusting cabinet door hinges. 

So whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a homeowner looking for a quick fix, this guide is tailor-made for you.

Understanding Common Cabinet Door Issues

Before diving into the specifics of adjusting cabinet doors, it’s crucial to understand the common issues that might arise:

1. Misalignment – Doors may not hang evenly or appear crooked.

2. Won’t Stay Shut – Some cabinet doors refuse to stay closed, popping open after you shut them.

3. Doors Overlapping – Sometimes, cabinet doors overlap each other when closed.

Each issue requires a specific approach. We’ll address each one and provide actionable solutions to keep your cabinet doors working properly.

How to Fix a Misaligned Cabinet Door

A misaligned door is one of the most common challenges homeowners face. The gap between the doors might be uneven, or the doors might not sit flush with the cabinet box.

1. Examine the Hinges – Check if the hinge screws are loose. If they are, tighten them using a screwdriver. For doors that hang crooked, adjusting the hinge screws will help align the door properly.

2. Use Adjustment Screws – Modern cabinet hinges come with adjustment screws that allow for minor tweaks. Turn these screws slightly to move the door up or down, left or right, or in and out.

3. Check the Door’s Position – After making adjustments, open and close the door to see if it sits correctly. Adjust as necessary until the door is properly aligned.

Adjusting Cabinet Door Hinges for a Secure Fit

Adjusting kitchen cabinet door hinges is the key to ensuring your cabinet doors close properly and stay closed. Here’s how:

1. Inspect the Hinges – Look for any signs of wear and tear. If the hinges are rusty, bent, or damaged, consider replacing them. Pay special attention to the edge of the door.

2. Use the Adjustment Screws – Adjust the screws on the hinge to make the door move closer or further from the cabinet, up or down, or left or right. Make sure they are in the correct position before you tighten the screws. This will help ensure the door closes properly.

3. Test the Door – After making adjustments, always test the door multiple times to ensure it’s working as it should. It should be level on top and bottom, and open and close flawlessly.

How to Adjust the Gap on a Cabinet Door

Over time, the gap between cabinet doors might become uneven due to various reasons. Adjusting this gap ensures a seamless look and functionality.

1. Check the Hinges – Often, the hinges are the culprits behind uneven gaps. Tighten or loosen the screws to adjust the door’s position.

2. Use Shims – For persistent gaps, consider using thin shims or washers behind the hinge plates. This can help adjust the door’s position and correct the gap.

How to Fix a Cabinet Door That Won’t Stay Shut

If your cabinet door keeps swinging open, the solutions are often simple:

1. Adjust the Hinge Screws – Sometimes, a slight adjustment to the hinge screws will increase the tension, helping the door stay shut.

2. Replace Worn-out Hinges – If hinge adjustments don’t work, the hinge might be worn out. Consider replacing it. Many modern cabinet hinges, especially soft-close types, have mechanisms that ensure doors stay closed. 

Key Takeaways: Ensure Your Cabinet Doors Function Flawlessly

Regular Inspection – Consistency is the foundation of any maintenance task. By checking your cabinet doors and hinges regularly, you can spot minor issues before they escalate. This proactive approach saves time and reduces the need for major adjustments down the road.

Adjustment is Key – While it might sound daunting, most problems you encounter with cabinet doors are due to misalignment and can be rectified with simple hinge adjustments. Understanding and making these tweaks can lead to a smoother functioning kitchen and fewer frustrations.

Quality Hinges Matter – The longevity and proper function of your cabinet doors significantly depend on the hinges you choose. Investing in high-quality cabinet hinges not only provides a seamless movement but also ensures fewer adjustments and repairs in the long run. Remember, quality components lead to lasting results.

Explore Our Range of Cabinet Hinges

To ensure the flawless operation of your cabinet doors, we recommend exploring our range of cabinet hinges. They’re designed for durability and ease of adjustment, ensuring your cabinet doors always function at their best.

Have further questions or need more detailed guidance on adjusting your cabinet doors? Don’t hesitate to reach out. Our experts are here to assist you in ensuring your cabinet doors look and function perfectly.

The post How to Adjust Cabinet Doors appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

Not only does it provide a fresh and modern look, but it also can be a more economical option than a full replacement. If you’re wondering about kitchen cabinet refacing, its cost, and how to go about it, this blog post will guide you through the process.

What is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing, also popularly referred to as cabinet resurfacing, is a transformative process tailored to rejuvenate and enhance the aesthetics of your kitchen without the complexities of a complete overhaul. 

At the heart of this method lies the principle of utilizing the existing cabinet boxes while seamlessly updating their exterior appearance. This entails a meticulous procedure where the old cabinet doors and drawer fronts are replaced with new ones, complemented by the application of a carefully chosen veneer to the outer structures of the cabinets. 

Not only does this process ensure a more contemporary and polished look, but it also allows homeowners to embody the latest design trends without the need to invest in entirely new cabinetry. By refacing, you’re essentially preserving the structural integrity of your cabinets and simply revamping their surface, much like how a facelift revitalizes one’s appearance. 

It’s a sustainable, economical, and efficient approach to kitchen remodeling, aligning both aesthetics and functionality.

Can I Reface My Own Cabinets?

Absolutely! With the right tools, patience, and a bit of guidance, DIY enthusiasts can take on the task of refacing cabinets. Let’s delve into the steps involved:

1. Assessment and Preparation: Begin by inspecting the existing cabinet boxes. Ensure they are structurally sound. Clean the surfaces and remove any old paint or varnish.

2. Select Your Materials: This is where product categories like cabinet doors come into play. Decide whether you want custom cabinets or prefabricated ones. Choosing solid wood can lend a timeless appeal and durability.

3. Remove Old Doors and Hardware: Detach the existing doors, hinges, handles, and knobs. Keep the hardware if you plan on reusing them.

4. Apply Veneer: Measure the surface areas of the cabinet boxes and cut veneer sheets accordingly. Adhere using a strong adhesive, ensuring no bubbles or wrinkles appear.

5. Attach New Cabinet Doors: Using your selected cabinet doors, align them perfectly with the cabinet boxes and attach using the hardware.

6. Finishing Touches: Consider painting or staining the newly refaced kitchen cabinets to add an extra layer of protection and elegance.

Is It Cheaper to Reface or Replace Cabinets?

The decision between refacing and replacing kitchen cabinets often boils down to cost considerations. More often than not, refacing kitchen cabinets emerges as the significantly more economical option compared to full-scale replacements. Here’s an in-depth look into the financial breakdown:

Material Costs: Cabinet refacing primarily focuses on the exterior enhancements, meaning you are majorly investing in new doors, drawer fronts, and in many cases, veneer. In contrast, total cabinet replacement means purchasing entire new cabinet structures, inclusive of both the interiors and exteriors, which substantially drives up material expenses.

Labor Costs: Labor plays a pivotal role in the cost equation. If you’re inclined towards a DIY approach, refacing becomes an avenue to realize substantial savings. But even if you’re leaning towards hiring professionals, refacing generally requires fewer man-hours. This is because the process circumvents the time-consuming steps of completely tearing out existing cabinets and installing new ones from scratch, which can often entail addressing unforeseen challenges like plumbing or wiring adjustments.

Minimal Disruptions: Anyone who’s undertaken a home renovation project knows that it’s not just the direct costs that matter; it’s the associated inconveniences too. Kitchen remodeling, in particular, can throw household routines into disarray. With refacing, the kitchen remains largely functional, mitigating the need for alternative cooking or dining arrangements. This streamlined process translates to fewer days of disrupted meals, less takeout, and a reduced need for temporary storage solutions — all of which contribute to indirect savings.

While the allure of brand-new cabinets might be tempting, it’s essential to weigh the tangible and intangible costs. Refacing presents a balanced solution, offering a refreshed aesthetic without the hefty price tag and extended timeline that complete replacements often demand.

Advantages of Cabinet Refacing

Cost-Effective: Cabinet refacing stands out as a budget-conscious choice for homeowners. Not only are the material costs generally lower than a full cabinet replacement, but you also avoid the hidden expenses that come with comprehensive renovations, such as potential plumbing or electrical adjustments. The financial savings are tangible, especially for those looking to enhance their kitchen’s appearance without a hefty price tag.

Eco-Friendly: In our ever-growing environmentally conscious world, cabinet refacing shines as a sustainable option. By opting to reface, you’re essentially reusing the bulk of your existing cabinetry, significantly reducing the waste that might otherwise end up in landfills. It’s a choice that not only benefits your home but also our planet.

Time-Saving: Kitchen renovations can be notorious for their extended timelines, often disrupting daily routines. However, the process of refacing kitchen cabinets is notably swifter. Without the need to dismantle and reinstall complete cabinetry sets, homeowners can anticipate a quicker turnaround, restoring their kitchen’s functionality in a shorter span.

Personalization: Cabinet refacing offers a unique opportunity for homeowners to infuse their personal style into their kitchens. The plethora of design options, from contemporary sleek finishes to rustic wood textures, ensures that each kitchen can be tailored to individual tastes. Plus, with the ability to choose specific materials and colors, the end result is a kitchen that genuinely reflects the homeowner’s vision and aesthetic preferences.

In the realm of kitchen remodeling, cabinet refacing emerges prominently, casting a promising light for homeowners who are on the hunt for a blend of affordability and efficacy in their renovation endeavors. This method not only honors the foundational integrity and structure of your existing cabinetry, but it also paves the way for a dramatic transformation, encapsulating both form and function.

Remember, embarking on a refacing journey, whether as a hands-on DIY enthusiast or by enlisting the expertise of seasoned professionals, demands a conscious selection of materials. The resilience of solid wood doors, the finesse of high-quality veneers, and the craftsmanship behind them play pivotal roles in the end result.

When your kitchen starts beckoning for a rejuvenating touch, don’t immediately leap to exhaustive overhauls. Instead, let cabinet refacing be your first port of call. It harmoniously weaves budget-conscious choices with aesthetic appeal, exuding an undeniable brilliance in the heart of your home. Need some inspiration? Check out our Get Inspired pages!

The post How to Reface Cabinets: A Step-by-Step Guide appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

It is important to consider the room, usage and personal preference when making the decision of how to paint your cabinets. Gloss finishes are the easiest to clean, but may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas or for cabinets that will be frequently used. Satin finishes have a lower shine and more of a matte finish, which makes them less prone to showing scratches and wear and a better option for high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathroom. Finally, semi-gloss finish is a good balance between gloss and satin finishes.

What is the best paint finish on kitchen cabinets?

Flat Paint

Flat paint is a paint finish that has very little shine. It’s often used on walls and ceilings, but it can also be used on cabinets. It’s a great choice for cabinets in a bedroom or living room, where a low-gloss finish is desired.

Eggshell Paint Finish

Eggshell paint finish is a type of paint finish that has a slight sheen, similar to the finish on an eggshell. This type of paint finish is a great option for a variety of reasons.

One of the main benefits of eggshell paint finish is that it is more durable than flat paint. This makes it a great choice for cabinets in high-traffic areas like a kitchen or bathroom. The slight sheen helps to protect the surface from scratches and dings. This makes it more resistant to wear and tear.

Another benefit of eggshell paint finish is that it is easy to clean. The slight sheen of the finish makes it easy to wipe away dirt and stains. Your cabinets will look great even after years of use. This makes it a great option for areas that are frequently used, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Eggshell paint finish also gives a slight shine to your cabinets, which can add a touch of elegance to any room. It’s a great option to make your cabinets look more polished and refined.

Additionally, eggshell paint finish is a good option for those who want to avoid the high gloss of gloss paint or the low sheen of flat paint. It’s a happy medium between the two. It’s not too shiny or too dull, which makes it a versatile option.

Eggshell paint finish is a great option for cabinets in high-traffic areas like a kitchen or bathroom. It’s more durable than flat paint, easy to clean, and gives a slight shine to your cabinets, which can add a touch of elegance to any room. This versatile paint finish is a great balance between durability, cleaning and aesthetic.

Satin Paint Finish:

Satin finish paint has a slightly glossy finish and is a good choice for cabinets in high-traffic areas like a kitchen or bathroom. It’s more durable than eggshell, too, despite having a slightly shinier quality.

Gloss Finish Paint

When it comes to ease of cleaning, gloss finishes are the easiest to clean. Gloss finishes have a high shine and are very smooth, which makes it easier to wipe away dirt and stains. However, gloss finishes are also more prone to showing scratches and wear, so they may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas or for cabinets that will be frequently used.

The decision between gloss and satin finishes for cabinets depends on the specific room and usage of the cabinets, as well as personal preference. Gloss finishes have a high shine and are very smooth, which makes them easy to clean but more prone to showing scratches and wear. 

Satin finishes have a lower shine and more of a matte finish, which makes them less prone to showing scratches and wear but may be a bit harder to clean. For high-traffic areas like the kitchen or bathroom, a satin finish may be a better choice as it’s more durable and easy to clean. 

However, in areas like bedrooms or living rooms, a gloss finish may be a better choice as it can add a touch of elegance to the room. Ultimately, it is important to consider the room, usage and personal preference when making the decision between gloss and satin finishes for cabinets.

It’s worth noting that there’s also semi-gloss finish which falls in between gloss and satin finish, it’s a good option for cabinets that need to be easy to clean but also not as shiny as gloss paint.

Remember, the right paint finish will not only improve the look of your cabinets but also make them more durable and easy to clean.

The post How to Choose The Best Paint Finish appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

On the contrary, if you haven’t heard of beadboard paneling, then boy do we have the guide for you. Here’s an introduction into beadboard paneling, how it can be optimized for the kitchen, and how it fits in amongst other styles of kitchen cabinets. 

What is beadboard?

Beadboard is a type of wood paneling that features long, continuous vertical grooves and raised beads spaced every inch or two. Typically made from solid oak, pine, composite, fir or cedar, though it can occasionally come in other types of wood. The paneling can be found in individual boards between 32 to 48 inches long and 3 to 4 inches wide, with these individual boards fitting side-by-side.

The main, less technical highlight of beadboard is that it’s an extremely versatile type of paneling. Typically used as wainscoting kitchen walls, beadboard can commonly be found in environments like lake houses, and farmhouse kitchens.

What’s more, beadboard leans toward the easier end of the installation scale, requiring some measuring, a hammer and not much more. It can be stained or painted in every color from white/cream to blue, green, or burgundy (to name a few). This helps it match a wide array of different aesthetics.

Because of its incredible versatility, there’s seemingly no shortage of applications for beadboard. It can be implemented in several different parts of the home, from below a chair rail, beadboard kitchen cabinets, or bathroom backsplashes. 

What are the ways to update kitchen cabinets?

Beadboard represents a great way to update your kitchen cabinets. And, you can even work beadboard into your existing cabinets without a complete overhaul of your kitchen. There’s a few steps to this process, and you will need to have a reasonable knowledge of taking measurements, sanding down wood surfaces and using a table saw or jigsaw to make cuts. If you’re comfortable with each of those, however, it should be smooth sailing ahead.

How To Do It Yourself

Before doing anything, you should measure (and measure again) the area of the cabinet where the beadboard will be added – typically the middle panel area. As soon as you know how much surface area your new beadboard will need to cover, you can move forward with purchasing the paneling.

Next, it’s best to remove the cabinet doors from their hinges – with handles being removed from the doors as well – and display them on a flat surface. From here, sand the surface of the cabinet doors in hopes of getting rid of any finish that might not mix nicely with the adhesive you’re about to apply to it.

After marking the measurements of your cabinets on the beadboard, you’re free to cut the paneling to size with the help of a table saw or jigsaw. As a disclaimer, please only handle one of these tools if you’re experienced or comfortable with using them. We all want to add impressive accents to our kitchen cabinets, but none of us want to lose a finger in the process. 

Time to attach them to your cabinets. Adhesive can be administered to either the back of the beadboard or the front of the cabinets interchangeably. The important part, though, is treading carefully to ensure that all the edges are lined up. Getting this far into the update and coming away with lopsided-looking beadboard cabinets would be a disappointment, to say the least.

You’ll want to use a clear, silicone caulk to make up for any visible gaps between the beadboard and the cabinet itself, and it’s advised to sand down your new beadboard cabinet once it has dried. As a final touch, you can paint or stain the beadboard to perfectly match the rest of your cabinets for a seamless look.

Get Ready To Go Cabinet Doors

At Fast Cabinet Doors we like to make it as easy as possible for your to update your kitchen. We have several options for cabinet doors with beadboard in the middle panel. From a modern style with a shaker like frame, to a more traditional frame, we have everything you need. Simply enter the size of cabinet door you need, finish the doors with a paint, stain, or sealant, and attach! It’s really that easy! Shop today for beadboard cabinet options.

What are the different types of kitchen cabinets available?

While beadboard is a compelling style to choose for your kitchen cabinets, it’s far from the only style to consider. Some other options to consider are: shaker, glass-front, and solid panel. 

Beadboard

Starting with the style we’re already familiar with, beadboard adds warmth to a kitchen and can give you a cottage-style look. It can also be used inside cabinets to add some extra detail to your kitchen. The drawbacks to beadboard, however, are that they tend to need a more thorough cleaning in order to remove dirt and grease from all of the grooves overlaid on the paneling. It can also vary significantly in cost, depending on what type of wood you opt to use. 

Shaker

Shaker cabinets are composed of five distinct segments: vertical pieces of the sides dubbed “stiles,” horizontal pieces on the top and bottom (rails), and finally a recessed middle panel to bring the entire ensemble together. Though they’ll require regular cleaning (most kitchen cabinets do), shaker-style cabinets are often viewed as a classic design element that pairs exceptionally well with several aesthetics. 

Glass-Front

Glass-front cabinets are just that, incorporating a glass front panel on your cabinet door to showcase the contents inside. It’s a nice way to put fine china or other glassware on display without exposing them to the daily dust, grease and dirt that accompanies the standard kitchen. But since everyone will be able to see inside your cabinets, it will be vital to keep things organized and tidy to maintain the appearance of your kitchen. A window into a chaotic cupboard won’t add to the charm of your kitchen. Rather, it will hurt it. 

Solid Panel

Solid panel doors don’t have differentiating panels or other framing. They’re remarkably easy to clean, and can be a supremely cost-effective way to outfit your kitchen, simply because of how simple they really are. The downside to this simplicity is that they may not stand out in your space the way other styles of kitchen cabinets do. That said, a proper stain or paint job could help liven flat-front doors up considerably. 

All in all, beadboard is an excellent choice for any kitchen or project. It offers a clean and modern look while lending towards a more country aesthetic. Use it as a backsplash or incorporate it with beadboard cabinet doors. If you need help deciding which doors are right for you, give us a call. We are always happy to help!

The post Beadboard Cabinets: How To Use Them In Your Kitchen appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

With that being said, there are several key components to staining maple wood, and many of them aren’t for the faint of heart. However, if you’re willing to put in the time and make the effort, stained maple wood is an excellent choice for your next set of cabinet doors or drawers.

Interested piqued? Great! Let’s dive in deeper to the world of stained maple wood. 

How do you stain maple?

The process of staining maple wood consists of three main steps. But before you embark on the maple-staining journey, you’ll need a few tools to get the job done right. Among these required tools are: wood sealer, stain (preferably oil-based), paintbrushes, clear finish, 220 grit sandpaper and a few handy rags.

As soon as you’ve gathered your equipment, the first step in staining maple is sealing the wood itself. You’ll sand the wood, clear the wood of any residual sawdust, and then completely cover the wood’s surface with sealer. Sealing the wood will help ensure that it has the best resistance possible against water and other natural forces. 

After the sealer has been applied and the wood has dried for a few hours, move on to applying the stain. This is most commonly done by utilizing a paintbrush to evenly distribute your selected stain across the wood. While multiple stain coats can be used to help correct potential blotches, it’s best to limit to three coats if possible.

The final step is quite similar to the first. It’s advised to leave the freshly-stained wood overnight to dry. Sealing the wood once more with a polyacrylic finish is suggested to improve waterproofing. While technically optional, with the time already put in, it makes sense to go the extra mile and get the best protection possible. 

How difficult is it to stain maple?

The consensus among most knowledgeable resources on the subject matter is that staining maple is no walk in the park. Staining maple can be a real problem, even for finishers with a lot of experience.

The problem here is that the process of staining is often accompanied by blotches, which will hurt the aesthetic that you’re hoping to achieve. Worse yet, the darker the stain you’re opting for, the worse the blotches will tend to be. If you’re unfamiliar with different seal-coat techniques, you may want to get some practice in on scrap wood first.

There are steps you can take to help minimize blotching when working with a maple stain, such as pre-treating the wood to help limit the penetration of the stain into the wood. But let us reiterate: this isn’t a job for beginners. If you’re planning to stain maple for the first time, come armed with a healthy supply of patience. Be prepared for a significant amount of trial and error. 

Several experts will suggest an alternative to staining maple: using a wood dye. Wood dyes incorporate smaller particles that have better luck when it comes to penetrating a thick piece of wood such as maple. When done right, the result is similar to that of maple stain, but with less of a chance of succumbing to blotches. 

What are the differences between natural vs. stain?

When weighing your options between natural wood and its stained counterpart, there are a few characteristics to consider. Natural wood, for instance, typically allows for a clear coat finish that serves as an appealing reflection of light. This is perfect for a space that has several windows with natural light pouring in at all hours of the day. Rustic aesthetics often benefit the most from natural wood finishes for its, well, natural appearance.

Modern interiors, meanwhile, have resorted to using stained wood almost exclusively. For one, it’s a solution that offers a compelling combination of durability and affordability. More than that, though, the variety of stain colors available makes this type of finish particularly flexible when it comes to fitting into different design styles. By going this route, homeowners will be free to pinpoint the shade of stain that best suits the look that they’re after.

What is the best stain for maple?

Everyone has their own preference across brands, but when it comes to staining maple, you want to make sure you’re covered in a few important areas. Take a look at the wood conditioning properties, penetration into maple, and color evenness.

Ideally, your stain will preserve the rich color of your maple cabinets, not hide it. But maple is tricky–it can dry blotchy and fade over time with poor treatment or low-quality stains. That is why we’d recommend using a pre-stain conditioner, like Minwax, to first prepare your maple for staining.

Once you’ve applied the conditioner and it has dried, consider a high-quality wood stain like Rust-Oleum’s Varathane. This stain provides a more natural color that looks great on interior cabinets and also penetrates the wood deeper. The great thing about this stain is that it dries quickly–1 to 2 hours in most cases–and looks fantastic almost immediately with no blotching.

Minwax also makes several different stains, including ones that you can use over polyurethane finishes–if simplicity is what you’re after, a stain like Minwax PolyShades would do the trick. 

Should natural maple be stained to seal it?

In short, yes. Whenever possible, natural maple wood should be stained. As much of a process as it can be, staining maple wood will go a long way towards fending off imperfections. You’ll also be protecting it from the likes of insects, UV rays, mold and mildew, and rain.

Plus, staining maple wood is akin to taking out an insurance policy on the longevity of your wood’s color. Maple woods are prone to losing the rich accents that make the type so popular over longer periods of time. By staining maple, you’ll be able to reduce the wear-and-tear of your wood and preserve its color long into the future. 

When should you stain maple?

Because of the pure versatility it offers when it comes to different shades and colors, stained maple can be a fixture in several different styles. Depending on the door style, finish, and other aspects of the environment you’re working with, stained maple would fit right into styles ranging from traditional to transitional, contemporary and even modern.

The same logic applies to cabinet doors and drawers. Because of its wide-ranging compatibility, there isn’t really a style of door or drawer that would be a bad choice for stained maple. While the staining process is far from easy, there’s a reason stained maple is so sought after. It’s a Swiss Army Knife of sorts, able to adapt to most environments and designs that the everyday person could think to mix it into. 

The post Maple Stain: Colors and Tips for Staining appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

It takes experiencing the agony of a drawer that jams or slams to know just how important these metal railings are. They make your furniture function without a hitch, and bring things to a screeching halt when they aren’t working the way they should. If you’re in need of new drawer slides but are in the dark about what they are or what types are available, you’re in luck. We’ve crafted a guide dedicated to the unsung heroes of cabinetry themselves.

What, exactly, are drawer slides?

To a certain degree, drawer slides are somewhat self-explanatory. They are the tools used to allow horizontal movement of drawers, and can be found in all types of furniture. Dressers, nightstands, workstations and much, much more employ drawer slides to function on a daily basis.

The average set of drawer slides works in tandem, consisting of two narrow housing units that contain small balls (hence the name “ball-bearing drawer slides) that move up and down a set of tracks. Mount drawer slides to either the side or the bottom of the drawer, depending on what the installation calls for. 

Regardless of where on the drawer these slides are installed, they provide the same functionality. They are, in the broadest of definitions, the middle man between the drawer and the rest of the piece of furniture. Slides prevent rubbing and unwanted friction between the two parts, allowing for smooth, effortless sliding of drawers whenever they’re called upon to be opened.

How do you install drawer slides?

As outlined by Jenn over at Build-Basic.com, installing drawer slides should be a relatively painless project. There are several steps to follow and a few key measurements to take in order to get the job done. But the everyday homeowner should be able to rest easy knowing that this won’t be an all-day install.

First

Take a ruler or a straightedge and make note of where the drawer slide will be placed inside your piece of furniture. The exact measurements will vary depending on the types of drawer slides you’re dealing with, of course. But you will want to mark exactly where the slide will be as a precursor for your install.

Next

Move the slide into position according to the marks you just made. When you’re satisfied with the slide’s placement, use a drill to create pilot holes for screws to hold your slide in place. From there, it’s as easy as screwing in your slide with the provided screws, then repeating the process for the final slide in the pair. 

Here’s where that straightedge will be helpful once more. In the same fashion that you mocked up the placement of your slide inside your furniture, it’s now time to sketch out where the slide extension will live on the drawer itself. When the proper measurements are in place, you can be free to position your slide extensions and attach them to the drawer.

Now for the satisfaction of bringing it all together. You should be able to hold the drawer level in front of the piece of furniture, line up the slide extensions with the slide tracks inside the piece, and slide the drawer into its designated spot. It can require a bit of a firm push at first, but as soon as the components are working in unison, you should be able to go from completely closed to having full extension drawer slides effortlessly. 

How do you measure drawer slides?

If you’re in search of more guidance when it comes to the act of actually measuring drawer slides, we have you covered. The key revolves around measuring the space (box) that the drawer slides into, rather than the drawer itself. Starting at the back of the box, measure to the front and round the total down to the nearest inch. That will give you the length that you will need for your next set of slides.

From there, measure both the width of the drawer and the width of the opening of the cabinet. If these two measurements are within 1/8 inch of each other, you’re free to use full extension drawer slides. However, anything outside those parameters will most likely require bottom-mount slides or even some quick carpentry to ensure new slides will work with your drawer.

And, as a last resort, you can always bring your drawer with you to pick out new slides. It might be a little out of the ordinary, but it is a surefire way to guarantee that you’re purchasing drawer slides that will match your needs. 

How do self closing drawer slides work?

Like most of modern society, you probably cringe at the sound when a drawer gets slammed shut. It’s loud, it’s jarring, and it leaves you concerned about the structural integrity of said drawer. 

Modern problems call for modern solutions, and that’s just what drawer slide manufacturers have come up with. Self-closing slides allow a person to gently press on the front of a drawer and let the slides do the rest of the work, gliding the drawer itself back into place. In other words, goodbye, explosive drawer slamming. Hello, smooth, automated closing.

Self-closing drawers, while among the most popular, aren’t the only kind of specialized drawer slides. Soft-close, for instance, is just a step below self-closing. It slows the drawer down as it closes to protect against a slam. On the opposite side of the spectrum, touch-release slides trigger drawers to pop open with a simple press.

Other options, like detent and locking slides, are made to stay in a defined position until they’re pushed. This stationary style of slide is essential for kitchen essentials like slide-out cutting boards.

How does one adjust soft closing cabinet drawers?

There are troubleshooting steps to move through if you find yourself needing to adjust self-closing cabinet slides. A quick correction can solve nagging issues like excessive slamming or poor fit back into the furniture. 

Most soft-close drawers will have an adjustment knob in the corner of the drawer clip. Feel free to play with this knob in order to dial in what works best for your setup. 

Remember, a properly-working soft-close drawer should be able to quietly close without a strong show of force on your part. The slide’s components should take things over when the drawer is about three quarters of the way closed. It will be guided it back the last 25 percent for a soft finish.

If you’re still running into issues after adjusting the drawer’s adjustment knob, there may be a problem with the slides themselves. Make sure they are both clear of any debris that may be prohibiting proper functionality. And, if these problems persist, you may have to consider replacing your drawer slides entirely. 

Shop for slides with confidence

Now that you’ve been caught up to speed on all the advancements and perks of today’s modern drawer slides, there’s really only one thing left to do. It’s time to go shopping for the slides that will be right for you.

Fortunately, you don’t have to go far to find what you’re looking for. FastCabinetDoors has a wide selection of drawer slides that cater to every need or situation. From full extension drawer slides to soft-close slides and more standard options as well. With availability ranging from 18 to 27 inches, our selection of slides has plenty of options to make sure you find the right slides for your cabinet doors. 

The post Drawer Slides: Measure and Install Like a Pro appeared first on Fast Cabinet Doors.

Keep in mind, whether you are painting your existing cabinet doors for an easy refresh, or painting your new doors before you finish your project, be sure to take all the time you need to follow the proper procedures. You will be confident that your finished cabinet doors and drawers will last for years to come.

To help guide you through the process of painting kitchen cabinets, we’ve outlined some tools, tricks and best practices for the project at hand. Whether it’s determining the best paint for kitchen cabinets, learning how to paint cabinets, or learning about tools like a paint sprayer for cabinets, we’ve got you covered. 

Let’s get started. 

What is the best finish for paint on kitchen cabinets?

When it comes to finding the best finish for paint on kitchen cabinets, there are plenty of differing opinions floating around the home improvement world. For our money, though, a semi-gloss finish is your best option, bar none. 

Semi-gloss paint finish is exceptionally resistant to deformities like scratches, dents and smudges. Combined with its resistance to water and mildew, semi-gloss paint finish becomes a great choice for areas that see tons of use and attention. Plus, you don’t have to worry about damaging the finish when cleaning it. Even when utilizing stronger cleaners, semi-gloss can hold its own.

Semi-gloss finish is also pretty shiny, which can go a long way in standing out and demanding the attention of one’s eye. On the flip side of that, the sheer amount of light that semi-gloss finishes reflect means that you’ll be able to notice whatever blemishes show up on your cabinets or other hardware.

Because of that, it’s important to be especially careful when applying a coat of semi-gloss finish. Harness recommends even brushstrokes and the light use of each coat to avoid potential problems like brushstrokes, streaks or drips on your finished product.

When it comes to where to best utilize semi-gloss finish in a home, the easy answer is anywhere that sees a lot of action or activity. Living rooms, hallways, entryways, doorways, window frames and more are great candidates for semi-gloss finishes. Kitchens, and kitchen cabinets in particular, may even top the list of potential candidates for the finish.

Simply put, a semi-gloss paint finish offers all the qualities you’d want for a finish for your kitchen. From its sheer durability to its compatibility with even the strongest of cleaning products, this is a great choice. While there are cases to be made for other finishes, like satin, it’s hard to look past the highly desirable features that accompany semi–gloss. 

How do you paint oak cabinets to hide the grain?

Painting oak cabinets to hide the grain is far from an impossible task. But it’s not an easy (or quick) project to undertake. If you’re thinking of taking on a task like this, be prepared to take your time and put in the work. Rushing a job of this magnitude will only hurt the finished product so, as usual, patience is a virtue. 

Some materials and tools you’ll need before undergoing this project include: 

• Primer
• Finish Paint
• Fine grit sanding paper or sanding blocks
• Tack cloth
• Paint applicator (Spray Gun/Brush/Roller)
• Drop cloth

To start, Hendrick recommends removing kitchen cabinet doors and drawers, along with everything else you can think of from your space. Utensils, cookware, appliances – all of it should vacate the premises for the time being as you prepare for this project. Keep in mind that your kitchen could be out of commission for multiple days, so plan your meals and cooking accordingly. 

After gutting the kitchen, it’s time to sand down cabinet faces. Fill in the cabinets’ grain and other imperfections with a thin layer of DryDex (or similar spackling). Another round of sanding will follow, with the use of an oil-based primer on deck. You’ll repeat the sanding and primer steps for another round, setting the stage for the final coat of paint. 

Before doing that, Hendrick suggests caulking all cracks in the cabinets. This is technically an option step, but it can be important for the longevity of the paint job you’re applying.

Next you will start applying your finish paint by laying a coat of paint with either a brush or a roller. Make sure to get paint into all of the crevices and routed grooves. When using a roller make sure to apply even pressure on each stroke to prevent any roller lines. When using a brush make sure to remove excess paint from your brush as you work to prevent lines of excess paint from forming.

Apply one coat and allow it to dry fully before applying a final coat. After the first coat dries, check it visually and by running your hands along the cabinet door to check for excess paint. Use your sanding paper or block to remove any excess paint or drips and use your tack cloth to wipe down the doors. Apply your final coat using caution to get a clear even finish.

Allow doors to fully cure for a minimum of 48 hours before hanging.

How do you prevent brush strokes when painting cabinets?

When painting kitchen cabinets, painting bathroom cabinets, or painting in general, it’s crucial to avoid brush strokes whenever possible. Brush marks on your cabinets can make an otherwise solid DIY project look like an amateur did it. And trust us, no one wants amateur vibes when it comes to their kitchen’s appearance.

A paint sprayer or foam brush are great options to consider when trying to avoid brush lines. Use standard prep methods of sanding often and adding primer before applying paint. When it comes time to paint, hold the sprayer nozzle 6 to 8 inches away from the cabinet and applying from left to right. After the first coat is dry, you can move forward with a second coat to get as smooth as possible.

A sponge paint roller can also be a useful tool here, allowing the user to apply the paint on a cabinet door in a flowing, up-and-down manner. The nature of the sponge itself will help minimize any potential for brush lines. 

What is the best paint for cabinets?

When painting new cabinet doors it is important to use the correct type of paint. We recommend working with a non-blocking high quality paint and avoiding latex paints. Latex paints are too soft and will lead to a “sticky feeling.”

A solid choice for kitchen cabinets is a selection from Sherwin-Williams, such as its Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel. The paint is intended to give your cabinets that coveted smooth, luxurious finish. It even utilizes a water-based enamel to create a durable finish. If you’re after paint that can competently resist the wear and tear that comes with a well-used kitchen, this is the paint for you. 

As an additional tip when painting, try to keep your workspace free of dust and debris as much as possible. It can negatively affect the paint layers by settling and drying into freshly laid paint. Utilizing drop cloths or painters plastic is a great way to prevent unwanted dust.

We hope this was helpful and answered any questions you may have when painting your cabinet doors. The only thing for you to do is pick out your kitchen cabinet paint colors and get started! 

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Red Oak vs. White Oak: What’s the Difference?

Let’s start with the obvious. Both red oak and white oak come from the same species of trees. But while you can break down oak trees into many different types, there’s generally two main categories: red and white. 

According to The Wood Database, the designation between red oak and white oak comes down to “the morphology of the trees themselves.” In other words, red oak trees will have pointed lobes on their leaves, whereas white oaks will instead have rounded lobes. By the time the wood gets to the store, you probably won’t have leaves to help you tell the difference. So how do you decide between red oak vs. white oak?

When it comes to the lumber itself, the ends of the oak boards should be easy to identify. You just need to know what to look for. Red oak will have open pores found inside the growth rings on the end of the board. White oak, meanwhile, will have pores that are plugged with tyloses, or balloon-like swellings.

As The Wood Database notes, it’s useful to be able to tell the difference between red oak and white oak. Each has qualities that make them suitable for different types of situations. White oak, for instance, is usually more dense, although it can be harder to find and typically more expensive. Red oak, then, will often be lighter and best suited for interior builds like cabinets, furniture or hardwood flooring. 

Red Oak Vs. White Oak: Durability

Right off the bat, white oak has a clear advantage when it comes to durability. White oak is rot-resistant, making it viable for any kind of build or installation that may be subject to water or condensation. By that metric, white oak would be preferable for things like outdoor furniture or even watercraft applications. Alternatively, red oak is not rot-resistant. You should not really consider it for any installation or build that could see exposure to excessive water or moisture. 

Another way to determine the durability of these types of lumber is to refer to the Janka hardness test. Created by researcher Gabriel Janka, this test is measures how resistant wood is to both denting and wear. It achieves this by calculating the amount of force necessary to lodge a steel ball halfway into the wood.

On the Janka hardness scale, white oak has a score of 1360. That makes it harder than other types of wood, such as American walnut, American cherry, and yes, red oak. That’s not to say red oak is far behind, registering an absolutely respectable 1290 on the Janka hardness scale. But it does mean white oak can handle daily wear and tear than its red oak counterpart.

Note that the Janka hardness scale is most commonly used when discussing wood for the purpose of hardwood floors. However, the scale certainly has relevance when it comes to the topic of cabinets. Who among us wants cabinet doors that are susceptible to dents and wear? Both red and white oak have solid scores and are durable lumber that would work well for cabinets. White oak, though, takes the crown as the more durable type of lumber between the two.

Ease of Staining/Re-staining

If you’ve got a minute, Google the phrase staining/restaining red oak. You’ll find myriad of articles on how to stain red oak floors to make them look just like white oak. The consensus seems to be that everyone wants white oak, but they don’t want to replace their red oak. So they do the next best thing: staining red oak to make it resemble the seemingly more popular white oak. 

While red oak is durable lumber, staining it to look like white oak is not easy. Red oak is characterized by pinkish undertones. These will unveil themselves if you attempt to apply any kind of light stain. In other words, white, gray and other lighter stain colors are going to be a problem for red oak. Achieving that white-oak aesthetic will most likely be more of a headache than you’d like. 

White oak, by contrast, is more of a blank canvas. It will be receptive to more colors. Many choose to go the natural route and not stain their white oak at all. But it’s a type of wood that can typically hold a stain far more easily than red oak. 

The Best Type of Lumber for Each Style

Up to this point, white oak has been dominating this head-to-head comparison with red oak. Not only is white oak more durable and resistant to rot, but it is significantly easier to stain and re-stain. But the red oak vs. white oak battle is not over! Still, red oak remains a solid option for many interior options, such as cabinets and hardwood floors. And, depending on the style that you’re going for, it may yet be the most desirable of the two types. 

Modern

When discussing home styles, “modern” refers to an architectural and interior design that relies on a clean, simplistic and even minimalistic aesthetic. Many homes built this century, and most built in the last decade or so, tend to lean towards a modern style, utilizing lighter colors throughout the home to achieve a more futuristic and elegant look.

White oak lumber, which offers more of a gentle coloring compared to red oak, fits right in with the modern home’s design. It’s got a far more simple color scheme, which only aids the simplistic vibe that most homeowners are hoping to capture when they pursue a modern look. As The Vintage Flooring Company suggests, the wood itself typically has straight, even grain with clean lines that mesh with the neutral stylings of the rest of a modern home.  

Red oak, conversely, is deeper in color. While that may be easy to infer from the naming conventions of these two types, it’s significant to point out when discussing different design styles. The deeper color of the red oak simply won’t produce the brighter, air-y feel that white oak so effortlessly nails. If you’re building a home or hoping to do a major remodel, it’s key to keep the style you’re shooting for in mind when picking a type of lumber to implement into your new floors or cabinets. 

Traditional

The same deeper coloring that makes red oak an awkward fit for modern designs is the very trait that makes it a dream pairing for traditional homes. The term “traditional” here describes most older home stylings, from Victorian to NeoClassical, Old World and more. Essentially, if your home doesn’t sport a modern design, there’s a fair chance that it falls under the “traditional” umbrella.

This is where red oak truly excels. While the name is something of a misnomer – red oak isn’t explicitly red, but rather offers faint notes of the color sprinkled throughout – red oak is often characterized as a romantic choice that blends into the other classic elements of a traditional home. Red oak cabinets are a throwback of sorts to a vintage time of architecture, and depending on your personal preference, it may be the perfect option when considering a traditional-style house.

As you can imagine, white oak is a poor choice in traditional homes for the very same reason that red oak doesn’t work well in modern interiors. Its light tan coloring doesn’t mix nicely with the otherwise rustic design of a traditional home, and attempting to inject white oak into a traditional home without a complete modern overhaul would result in a mismatch that’s hard to conceal. 

Farmhouse

The farmhouse style is easily the most intriguing style of the three. It utilizes practicality and comfort, and seems to borrow the best aspects of both the modern and traditional styles. In other words, a farmhouse-style home takes some of the rustic beauty of a traditional design, and incorporates several tasteful, simplistic comforts that are signatures of the modern design. Again, it’s all about personal preference when it comes to designs, and the farmhouse style certainly isn’t for some. But when done right, the farmhouse style expertly positions itself as the ideal middle man between modern and traditional.

Because of its not-totally-modern, but not-overtly-traditional aesthetic, both red oak and white oak are good fits for the farmhouse design. Red oak will hide scratches exceptionally well because of its strong graining, and prides itself on being a versatile color that fits several different aesthetics. At the same time, white oak is easier to stain to personal taste, allowing you to more precisely dial in the colors and stains of your cabinets and floors if you so choose.

For those gravitating towards the farmhouse style, choosing between red and white oak will come down to what your priorities are. If you’re willing to pay more for a type of lumber that’s more durable and stain-friendly, white oak would be a great choice. But for something that won’t cost as much and rely on its natural, deeper colorings to fit right in, red oak would be ideal.

Red Oak vs. White Oak: Which Would You Pick?

When it comes to red oak vs. white oak, there quite honestly isn’t a bad choice in the bunch. Both are quality types of lumber that are consistently incorporated into all kinds of builds and installations across the country. 

What matters most is what you’re looking for from the wood that you choose to put in your home. As we’ve illustrated, both red and white oak have qualities that make themselves great (or in other cases, poor) options for different situations and setups.

It’s a bit cliche, but from a build standpoint, you won’t be able to go wrong with red or white oak. Both will serve as the foundation for strong, long-lasting cabinets. From here, it’s up to you to decide which type will work best in your own home. 

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