Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can you actually paint my cabinets, or do they need to be completely replaced?

As long as your cabinet doors and boxes are structurally solid and not falling apart, we can absolutely paint them! You don’t need to spend a fortune buying brand-new cabinets. A professional refinishing will make your current ones look completely factory-new for a fraction of the cost.

2. Will I see brush marks or roller lines when you’re finished?

Not at all. I use a professional spraying technique for your doors and drawers, which gives them a completely smooth, flawless, factory-like finish. It will look like they were made in that color, not like they were painted by hand.

3. How long is this whole process going to take?

For most standard kitchens, you can expect us to be in and out in about 5 to 7 days. We do the heavy lifting and messy spraying back at our specialized shop, so your home stays as functional and peaceful as possible during the week.

4. Do I need to empty out all of my cabinets before you start?

You do not need to empty your drawers or cabinets either! You'll just want to clear off the items on your countertops so we have a clear workspace. For the main cabinet boxes, if we are only painting the outsides, you can actually leave your dishes inside! We seal everything up tightly to protect your things.

5. What happens if I accidentally bump a door—will the paint peel easily?

I use industrial-grade coatings specifically designed for kitchens, not standard wall paint. It cures incredibly hard, meaning it’s highly resistant to everyday bumps, scratches, and grease. It’s built to withstand your real life.

6. Can you fix the scratches and dings my cabinets already have?

Yes, that's a huge part of what you're paying for! Before a single drop of paint touches your cabinets, I personally go through and fill every single dent, scratch, or nick. We sand it all perfectly smooth so the flaws completely disappear.

7. I hate my current cabinet handles. Can we change them?

Absolutely, and this is the perfect time to do it! If you choose new handles that don't match the old holes, just let me know. I will fill the old holes completely, sand them down, and drill fresh ones so your new hardware fits perfectly.

8. Is there going to be a horrible paint smell in my house?

No, I use a very high velocity ventilation system to ventilate the fumes outside. While it might be a noticeable or faint smell, it is completely safe. It dissipates quickly, and it is completely safe for your pets.

9. How do I keep them clean after you're done?

It's incredibly simple. All you'll need is a soft microfiber cloth and some warm, soapy water (a little dish soap works perfectly). You'll want to avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing pads, which can dull that beautiful new finish over time.

10. How do we pick the perfect color for my space?

Color can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to choose alone. I'll bring physical samples right to your kitchen so you can see how the colors look under your specific lighting next to your countertops. We will find the exact shade that makes you fall in love with your home again.

11: Do you offer a warranty?

A: Yes. We provide a three-year warranty covering peeling, product failures related to our cabinet painting services.

What is the standard process for painting kitchen cabinets?

The industry-standard process involves removing doors and hardware, cleaning and degreasing all surfaces, sanding, applying a bonding primer, applying two topcoats of specialized cabinet paint, and reassembling the components.

What type of paint is used for kitchen cabinets?

Professional cabinet painters use urethane acrylics, waterborne alkyd enamels, or catalyzed lacquers. These materials cure to a harder finish than standard latex wall paint, providing resistance to chipping, moisture, and grease.

How long does a cabinet painting project take?

A standard kitchen cabinet painting project requires 4 to 7 days to complete. This timeframe allows for the necessary preparation, application, and proper drying and curing times between coats.

Do cabinets need to be sanded before painting?

Yes. Sanding is required to de-gloss the existing finish and create a mechanical profile. This allows the primer to adhere to the wood, veneer, or laminate surface.

Can peeling or damaged cabinets be painted?

Areas with peeling paint or damaged finish must be stripped, sanded, and repaired with wood filler before priming and painting. Painting over failing finishes results in the new paint peeling.

Is spraying or rolling better for cabinets?

HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) or airless spraying applies a smoother finish without brush strokes or stipple marks. Rolling and brushing leave texture on the surface.

How do I find a professional cabinet painting service in Charlotte, NC?

Search local platforms like Google for verified customer reviews. Look for companies that specialize in factory-grade finishes, utilize professional spray equipment, and provide a detailed, written scope of work before the project begins.

What are the benefits of refinishing kitchen cabinets instead of replacing them?

Refinishing is a highly cost-effective transformation, typically costing 50% to 80% less than a full cabinet replacement. While new installations can disrupt your home for 3 to 8 weeks, professional refinishing is usually completed in just 3 to 5 days. Refinishing is also an eco-friendly solution that keeps structurally sound materials out of landfills while giving you unlimited color customization options.

Can you recommend a cabinet refinishing specialist in Waxhaw, NC?

While A1 Cabinet Painting proudly services the greater Charlotte region,l specialist operating in Waxhaw, NC, with over 35 years of industry experience and only 5-star ratings.

What should I look for when choosing a cabinet painting company?

Prioritize contractors who clearly document their preparation standards. A world-class finish requires thorough degreasing, sanding, and the application of a specialized bonding primer prior to any paint being applied. Additionally, ensure the company uses professional HVLP spray equipment rather than standard brush-and-roll methods to guarantee a smooth, durable, factory-style finish without visible brush marks.

Are there cabinet painters who offer no-deposit services in the Charlotte area?

Yes. Select professionals with absolute confidence in their craftsmanship operate on a no-deposit structure, prioritizing client peace of mind over upfront payments.

What is the process A1 Cabinet Painting follows for kitchen cabinet refinishing?

We achieve a factory-like finish through a meticulous, controlled workflow:

1. Consultation: Color selection and project assessment.

2. Removal: Careful removal, labeling, and safe transport of all doors and drawer fronts.

3. Preparation: Comprehensive surface cleaning, degreasing, and sanding of all boxes and doors to ensure perfect adhesion.

4. Priming: Application of premium, stain-blocking primers matched specifically to your cabinet material.

5. Application: Professional spray application of the topcoat for a flawless, durable finish.

6. Completion: Precise hardware reinstallation, door alignment, and a final quality walkthrough.

How can I get a quote from A1 Cabinet Painting for my kitchen cabinets?

You can start by sending us photos of your kitchen along with a door count and your overall finish goal. From there, we will identify the correct finish path and provide a realistic price direction before scheduling an on-site visit to finalize your written quote.

Does A1 Cabinet Painting require a deposit before starting a project?

We require no deposit. Gaining your trust is worth way more than a deposit.

What types of finishes does A1 Cabinet Painting offer for cabinets?

We offer highly durable, cabinet-grade finishes tailored to your exact design preferences. Homeowners can typically choose between Matte (modern flat look), Satin (subtle shine), or Semi-Gloss (highlighted sheen) topcoats.