Kitchen paint: how to choose the right one?

Upgrading a kitchen unit is not that difficult these days. To do this, it is not necessary to contact specialists, you can simply repaint the facades with your own hands. This procedure is required when the appearance of the old panels has become unusable or a major renovation is being undertaken in the kitchen and you need to choose the color most suitable for the walls. You can even paint a kitchen set in a new shade spontaneously if you are tired of the old color. But it is important to choose the right paint.

Currently, the range of hardware stores is replete with a huge variety of paints that can be used to paint kitchen facades. But not all of them can boast of excellent results. Experts recommend abandoning the use of acrylic varnishes and paints in the kitchen., since the aggressive kitchen environment and humidity very quickly render these materials unusable. Even ordinary vinegar, accidentally hitting the surface of such a facade, can significantly damage the coating.

Therefore, you should choose a paint that is as resistant to any damage as possible. It must withstand sudden temperature changes, frequent heat, steam from boiling food, and high humidity. In addition, such a paint should be characterized by a long service life, since frequent painting of the panels is harmful and impractical.

The color of the paint is selected taking into account the interior of the kitchen. For a harmonious combination, it is allowed to use several shades of the same basic color. It is important to match the color to the style of the kitchen. For example, if this is a classic, then brown and warm pastel colors are suitable, for neoclassical it is recommended to choose cold pastel shades, for eco-style it is customary to use a green range of colors.

There are several ways to restore a kitchen unit, over which repainting has several advantages. First of all, this is an unlimited choice of shades, the ability to independently create an interior style, to realize the wildest fantasies in the design of the kitchen.

There are several varieties of paints and varnishes that can be used to paint a kitchen set.

The paint was developed quite recently. Consists of coloring elements and water. For the kitchen, it is recommended to choose washable water-based paint. Thanks to this property, it will be possible to easily put the facades and walls in order. The washable surface is easy to clean, and the most common kitchen contaminants are easily washed off from it: grease drops, splashes from liquid food, and so on.

The surface painted with water-based paint is not damaged by the action of the products used for cleaning the kitchen. It is important to carefully study the instructions for water-based materials, since not all of them are suitable for the kitchen.

Alkyd enamels are highly resistant to air and chemical elements. Therefore, the surface covered with alkyd paints can be washed at least every day - this will not damage the coating. This enamel is divided into several types. Alkyd-melamine compounds are suitable for the kitchen. They differ not only in washable qualities, but also in a very aesthetic appearance. Alkyd-oil and alkyd-phenolic types are suitable for wooden or metal facades. They are composed of inorganic elements and vegetable oils.

The first layer is applied with a simple brush in all directions, while the final layer is applied with a roller. In connection with this technology, the speed of work is reduced, but this is justified by the excellent result.

This material is diluted with water before use, but after drying, the surface becomes insensitive to moisture, and therefore it is also a fairly popular option for painting kitchen sets. This variety tends to dry quickly and therefore is suitable for furniture that must be quickly put into operation.

Another plus of water-dispersion materials is the ability to apply a decorative pattern to the panels. This paint is considered environmentally friendly, it is odorless.

Silicone-based paints are good because they can not only update the appearance of the kitchen set, but also hide irregularities and defects on the surface of the facades. Quite a popular option, despite a number of disadvantages: first of all, it is the high price of silicone paints and varnishes. Also, the disadvantages include the need to be careful when cleaning. The fact is that silicone paints cannot stand the effects of strong reagents, especially compounds with alkali. Therefore, such surfaces must not be cleaned with chemicals or abrasive materials.

For painting facades, many people choose spray paint in cans, for example, car enamel. Buyers are attracted by its low cost, ease of application, the ability to create a perfectly flat surface. In addition, with the help of a spray can, you can bring to life the most daring design ideas, for example, create a patina effect on the surface of a kitchen set. In general, stores offer a wide selection of enamel in spray cans of different colors.

If the facades have glass inserts, it is better to use the traditional method and paint the material with a brush. The aerosol does not always spray neatly, splatter can hit the glass, and removing such paint from clear coat can be difficult.

It is better not to stop your choice on oil paint, since it is almost impossible to apply it in an even layer. If you need a water-based paint, then it is important to choose the type that is not washed off with water and has washable properties. The advantages of this option are the breathable quality of the material, the affordable price, the ability to wash off the dirt even with aggressive chemicals.

For facades that not only need external cosmetics, but also have cracks or chips on the surface, silicone paint is recommended. Acrylic paint is very popular.Buyers are attracted by its color variety, environmental friendliness, lack of smell, however, it was already noted above that this material does not react well to the influence of heat and moisture, and therefore it should be borne in mind that after covering the kitchen with acrylic enamels, a new update is just around the corner. In addition, acrylic absorbs oils, so oily stains can remain on facades. Alternatively, the top finishing coat will allow you to secure the surface.

Painting of kitchen facades is possible with an aerosol can, brush or roller. Let's consider different options.

• Prepare your workplace. Cover all nearby objects with foil so that splashes do not fall on their surfaces. Stock up on personal protective equipment and tools in advance.
• Dismantle the facade elements. It is much more convenient to apply paint if the surface is horizontal. If there are glass inserts, it is recommended to seal them with a protective film or remove them during operation. You can even use regular tape. By the way, if the doors had to be removed anyway, then this is another reason to update the creaking old fittings.
• If the doors are dirty, they need to be washed and wiped dry. Then the surface is degreased with a solvent, the film is removed with an industrial hairdryer. It is advisable to sand the coating with sandpaper, rinse and dry again.
• If the coating is damaged, use a putty or putty knife and smooth out the deformed areas. Automotive putty can be used for this procedure. Next, you need to grind the facades with a primer and clean.
• Shake the can well and spray over the surface from a distance of 20-30 cm sweeping movements. It is better to apply at least 2-3 coats, but so that the top coat is applied over an already dried coating.
• After the paint has completely dried, the surface is varnished. To do this, it is more convenient to re-use varnish in spray cans.
• Finished facades need to be dried for at least four hours, install the fittings and hang the doors in their original place.

The essence and sequence of work are the same as when painting from a spray can, but it is worth considering some points.

• The brush must be new. It is used in such cases when it is required to restore paint in recesses, joints, in corners and other places where it is impossible to penetrate with a roller.
• The roller should be made on the basis of foam rubber. This material will allow the paint to be applied evenly.
• Stock up on a special tray. Working with it will be much more comfortable, this element will not allow excessive absorption of paint into a roller or brush.
• Dipping the brush or roller into the paint to a minimum will help to avoid streaks, streaks and other staining defects.
• If it is necessary to use two colors on one panel, then the ready-made dried shade is protected with a film, and only then the second color is applied.
• For a more spectacular appearance, glisal can be additionally applied to the facades. The product is diluted in water and applied to the painted panels with a clean brush. If you need to get a patterned textured pattern, then you can use the glazing technology. To do this, apply a damp sponge or hard brush to the glaze surface and lead in the desired direction. Interesting broken lines, abstractions, chaotic strokes are obtained.

For the technology of painting a kitchen facade made of MDF, see the video below.