Tools and Materials
Tools
- Screwdriver
Sandpaper (fine-grit)
- Tack cloth
- Paintbrushes
Foam roller
Stir stick
- Drop cloths
- Degreaser (cleaner)
Materials
Primer
Latex or acrylic paint
- Painter’s tape
Soap and water (for cleaning tools)
Painting Garage Cabinets
There are multiple benefits of painting your garage cabinets. They add a protective seal on your cabinets and help with maintenance as well. To learn more about how to do this, read this step-by-step guide.
Clear out the area around your garage cabinets so you have enough space to work without damaging anything. Empty out the cabinets and take off the doors and hardware, like hinges, knobs and handles. Clean the surfaces thoroughly with a degreaser to eliminate dirt and grime.
Wood or laminate cabinets need to be sanded to roughen up the existing finish. This is to make sure that the paint adheres properly. Metal or plastic cabinets might not need sanding. Use a damp cloth to wipe the dust off. Lastly, use plastic or canvas drop cloths to prevent paint dripping onto your garage floors.
For wood and laminate surfaces, a high-quality bonding primer works best. Use a brush or roller to apply the primer uniformly. Corners and edges might be tricky areas to get to, so pay extra attention to those.
Allow the primer to dry completely, usually takes a few hours. Lightly sand the primed surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth out any brush strokes or imperfections, and then wipe away the dust with a tack cloth.
Choose a tinted primer that matches your final paint color for fewer coats and a brighter finish.
Choosing the right paint for your garage cabinets is important to ensure durability. It's recommended to use high-quality latex or acrylic paint as it provides a hard, washable finish. If your cabinets are subject to heavy use, you may want to consider using a semi-gloss or gloss finish for added resilience and easier cleaning.
Mix the paint thoroughly before use to ensure an even color and consistency. You may want to test the paint on a small area to see if you’re happy with the color and finish.
Apply the first coat of paint to the cabinets using a high-quality brush or foam roller. Start with the inside edges and openings, then move to the outer surfaces and doors. Apply the paint in thin, uniform coats to avoid drips and brush marks. Work in long, smooth strokes.
Allow the first coat to dry completely, typically for 4-6 hours, depending on the paint type and environmental conditions. Lightly sand the surface again with fine-grit sandpaper to remove any imperfections, and then apply a second coat for a rich, even finish.
After the paint has fully dried and cured—which can take up to 24 hours—it’s time to reassemble your cabinets. Carefully reattach the hardware, aligning the hinges and handles correctly.
Reinstall the cabinet doors, checking that they hang evenly and open and close smoothly. Tighten any loose screws and make any necessary adjustments for a perfect fit.
After painting your cabinets, take a close look to see if any areas need touching up. If you spot any minor imperfections or missed spots, use a small brush to fix them. Once you're done, clean your brushes, rollers, and other painting tools with soap and water or the appropriate cleaner for the type of paint you used. Next, carefully remove the drop cloths and dispose of any painter’s tape.
Keep your painted cabinets pristine by routinely wiping them down with a soft, damp cloth. This simple maintenance routine will help preserve their vibrant color and glossy finish, keeping them looking fresh and inviting.
And there you go—you’ve successfully completed your DIY garage paint project. You can now place your items back inside the cabinets, and organize them as you see fit.