What’s the best kitchen cabinet varnish for your home?

If you have kitchen cabinets in your home right now, they are being protected by varnish. Kitchen cabinet varnish is a specially formulated protective topcoat layer that protects cabinets from stains and wear-and-tear. When applied correctly by a professional to newly installed cabinets, bathroom and kitchen cabinet varnish can guard your cabinets for many years to come.

In this article, we’ll review how varnish works, the different types of varnishes out there, and why it makes sense to have a professional install your new bathroom and kitchen cabinets here in Phoenix, Arizona.

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What is a kitchen cabinet varnish?

Kitchen cabinet varnish is a protective, sealing layer that protects the cabinet surface from stains, nicks, heat damage, and other types of common kitchen wear-and-tear. All cabinets should have some type of varnish added to them to keep them looking great for the long haul. However, the type of varnish used greatly depends on the nature of the cabinet and its paint.

*In a kitchen like this one, the kitchen cabinet varnish will help protect the cabinets against stains and the sunlight coming through the skylight.*

Different types of varnishes

Varnishes provide a protective coating to the kitchen cabinet. Many different types of varnishes can be applied on the kitchen cabinetry. All the different types of varnishes can be grouped into two types: oil-based and water-based.

Traditionally, varnishes were made of oil and resin. These varnishes create a hard and resistant surface once they have dried. Oil-based varnishes, on the other hand, are more durable than water-based varnishes. However, water-based varnishes dry more quickly after application. Also, they have a low odor level, which is important if applying inside the home.

Today, most manufacturers either apply polyurethane or catalyzed varnishes. Polyurethane varnishes can be used on both unfinished and painted surfaces. They can be either water- or oil-based.

Applying a varnish

Applying the varnish on the wood is, in effect, sealing it with plastic. The plastic is tough that creates an impenetrable barrier on the surface. They tend to create a glossier finish to the kitchen cabinet. The varnish makes the surface super resistant to water and chemicals. You can select satin, low-gloss, or high gloss finishes.

Catalyzed varnishes contain a catalyst that accelerates the drying process after application. The fast acting varnishes are harder, more durable, and boast of improved corrosion resistance. They are transparent and protect the wood from damage due to cleaners and household chemicals.

The kitchen cabinets on which catalyzed varnishes are applied retain the sheen and original paint color. It is more expensive than lacquer but also more elastic that provides remedy against expansion and contraction of the joints.

So, how do you decide what type of kitchen cabinet varnish is right for your home?

Start by giving the pros at Superior Stone & Cabinet a call. We offer free in-home estimates on new kitchen cabinets. We’ll help you pick out the right style and color for your cabinets.

Experts state that a person should consider different factors when selecting a varnish for the kitchen cabinet. There is no one type of varnish that is best for every cabinet. Some of the factors that you need to consider include the presence of excess moisture, exposure to airborne pollutants, presence of excess natural light, UV exposure, drying time, durability requirement, and finished appearance.

Painting kitchen cabinets and adding a varnish can be complicated. There are many steps, the process is time-consuming, and the margin for error is relatively small.

That’s what makes professional installation and an in-home estimate a good choice.

Call us at Superior Stone & Cabinet

If you’re still confused about which varnish is best for your kitchen cabinet, you should contact our professional team at Superior Stone and Cabinet.

We have a team of experts who can guide you in making the right decision regarding kitchen cabinet varnish. We can also help you in selecting a new kitchen cabinet that best source your budget and preferences.