Start with the condition and written scope
A free written estimate begins with the cabinet material, existing coating, door and drawer count, damage, and the result you want. The quote should identify which fixed frames, exposed ends, interiors and removable pieces are included, along with any repairs or hardware changes.
A new color may be suitable for a sound existing surface. A natural stained appearance needs an appropriate wood surface and a separate assessment. Swollen board, loose wraps, damaged veneer or poorly bonded coatings may require repair or replacement before finishing.
Protect the kitchen and label removable pieces
The work plan explains where doors and drawer fronts will be finished and how fixed sections will be protected. Hardware and pieces included in the scope are removed and labeled for reinstallation. Floors, counters, appliances and neighboring surfaces need protection appropriate to the work.
Masking, preparation, coating and drying can temporarily restrict access to storage or appliances. Agree on those periods in advance rather than assuming the kitchen remains usable every evening.
Clean and prepare the existing surface
Contamination and loose coatings must be addressed before a new system is applied. Preparation may include cleaning, deglossing, sanding, removal of unstable coating, and agreed repairs. The method depends on the substrate and product instructions; complete stripping or heavy sanding is not appropriate for every veneer or manufactured board.
Discuss visible grain, dents and previous repairs before selecting the final appearance. A new topcoat can change color without making a textured or damaged surface look identical to new cabinetry.
Apply the specified primer and finish
The proposal names compatible products for the actual material and existing coating. Primer requirements, coating thickness, recoat intervals and application conditions come from that system’s instructions.
KB Painting uses professional spray application for cabinet work. Spraying can reduce visible application texture, but it does not guarantee adhesion or durability independently of preparation and product compatibility. See the spray-versus-brush comparison for questions to ask when comparing estimates.
Reinstall and review the work
Doors, drawers and hardware are reinstalled when the coating is ready for handling. The walkthrough covers appearance, alignment and the agreed scope, along with care instructions for the finish.
Handling readiness, recoat time and full cure are different milestones. Follow the specified restrictions on cleaning, loading and use after reinstallation. Your project instructions explain when normal use can resume.
Confirm timing and coverage
Door count, repairs, included surfaces, drying conditions and access affect the schedule. The written plan should explain the expected sequence and any dependencies. Cabinet refinishing carries a six-month finish warranty under the written policy.
Read what affects finish life and when replacement makes more sense, or browse actual cabinet photos.