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Does My Kitchen Need Clear Coat?
Posted by Admin on Dec 14th 2020
After going through a grueling remodel, the absolute last thing you want is to see your brand new cabinets damaged. One great way to protect your cabinets is with a clear coat finish. The finish will both protect your cabinets and elevate their beauty. Whether your cabinets are painted or natural, a clear coat can be a great way to ensure your cabinets stay beautiful.
In this blog, we will go over some important things to keep in mind when looking for the right clear coat.
What can Clear Coat Do for Me?
One of the first things you will notice after applying a clear coat finish to your cabinets is that your space will be brighter. Kitchens with lots of natural light will notice this effect especially. In addition to the brightness, the finish will also protect your cabinets from dings, scratches, and chipping. These finishes also offer benefits for those with painted cabinets. Over time, natural light will cause the paint to fade. Some products actually reflect UV light and keep your colors looking fresh longer.
If applied correctly, your clear coat finish won’t leave behind a messy residue on your cabinet doors. If you have rough surfaces and edges, these types of finishes will give you a smooth and shiny new look.
What Should I Know When Buying?
When you get to the store, you will see dozens of different clear coat options. But, how will you know which is best for you? Here is a quick guide on things to keep in mind.
Longevity
One of the first things to look for is longevity. It is important to know how long your clear coat will last, and when you need to reapply. This is important because your cabinets could sustain unnecessary damage if it is past time for the reapplication.
Durability
The other important element to be mindful of is durability. Not all products are made for all projects, so some will be more durable than others. As you are looking at the various options, be sure to look for any discussion of scratch resistance or whether or not it is high abrasion-resistant. It is always good to also check if the manufacturer calls for any regular maintenance.
Applying Clear Coat
When getting ready for the application process, it is important to read all of the instructions and warnings on the label. The first thing you need to do once you get the can open is to stir the contents. Before you start applying the coat to your doors, ensure that they are both dry and clean. Taking a smooth rag or paintbrush, apply the clear coat with strokes in the same direction as the grain pattern. For the first coat, it is best to lightly apply. Once the surface is dry, lightly sand and clean it so it is smooth. Repeat this process for the second coat, only this time you should use a heavier application.
Two coats are usually enough, but if you have a particularly high traffic kitchen, you may want to apply a third coat.
Final Touches
For protecting your cabinets’ paint from fading or highlighting the beauty of natural material, a clear coat is an excellent choice.
Hopefully, after reading this quick guide you feel confident and ready to pick out your clear coat. It is important to take a moment to consider the specific needs of your kitchen so that you can make the best choice of product. With the right clear coat for the job, your kitchen cabinets will stay protected and beautiful for longer.