Cabinet hinges are the unsung heroes of a kitchen's functionality. They may be small, but they play a mighty role in the look and feel of your space.
So, when it comes time to give your cabinets a makeover–especially if you have painted cabinets with wood doors–you might be wondering if you should paint the hinges or replace them entirely. This article is here to help you make an informed decision.
Budget Meets Aesthetics
Your kitchen is your castle, and every penny counts. You don’t have to know how to strip kitchen cabinet doors in order to transform your space; painting your cabinets and their hinges can be a cost-effective way to revamp your kitchen without breaking the bank. It also offers a chance to get creative and add a personal touch.
Time Versus Value
If you flip houses, your goal is to turn a property around quickly and for a profit. Replacing hinges might cost more upfront, but it can add to the overall appeal and functionality of a kitchen. Buyers love attention to detail, and new hinges can be just the kind of small detail that puts a property over the edge.
Quality and Durability
For professional builders, it’s all about quality and longevity. While painting hinges can be a quick fix, replacing them might be the better long-term solution, especially in high-use areas like kitchens. Plus, new hinges can offer updated features that clients will note and appreciate.
Painting Hinges: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re thinking of painting your cabinet hinges, here's some advice on how to do it right:
Remove the Hinges
Carefully take the hinges off your cabinets. It might not feel important now, but you’ll be grateful later that you stay organized. Be sure to make a note of where each hinge belongs.
Clean Them Up
Old paint, grease, and grime are your enemies here. Give each hinge a good cleaning with soapy water or a degreaser.
Sand Them Down
A light sanding can help paint adhere better. Be gentle so you don’t damage the hinges.
Prime Time
A metal primer is your best friend. It’ll help the paint stick and prevent rust.
Paint Away
Achieve the best finish by using a spray paint designed for metal. Be patient and apply multiple light coats.
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Reattach with Care
Once they're dry, reattach the hinges and enjoy the new look.
Replacing Hinges: What You Need to Know
Leaning towards replacing your hinges, instead? Here's the lowdown:
Choose the Right Hinges
There are many styles and types of hinges available. Consider the type of cabinet, the other hardware in the room, and the feeling you want the cabinets to convey before you choose the new hinge.
Consider the Features
Hinges can come in many varieties with many features, including soft-close, self-closing, and concealed.
Installation
This can be straightforward if you're using the same type and size of hinge as the one you removed, but if you're switching styles, you might need to drill new holes or make other adjustments.
Aesthetics
New hinges can give your cabinets a whole new look–contemplate changing other hardware like knobs or pulls to match.
Choosing Your Path
Whether you choose to paint or replace your cabinet hinges, the decision can have a big impact on your kitchen's look and functionality.
For the budget-conscious DIYer, painting offers an affordable makeover, while house flippers and professionals might find value in the fresh appeal of new hinges. Whatever path you choose, remember that small details can make the biggest difference.
If you want to learn more about home renovation, don’t miss our post on how to prevent chipping on cabinet doors!
