Oak kitchen cabinets were popular in the 80s and 90s but faded out of favor as painted or laminate cabinetry became the norm. But now, many homeowners are rediscovering natural oak’s beauty and finding that these classic cabinets have a timeless charm. They can be incorporated into contemporary styles and work well with today’s most popular color schemes.
You can make your oak kitchen cabinets look brand new again in several ways. You can stain them a darker shade to warm up the wood and create a rich traditional style, or you could opt for a lighter finish that gives off a more modern aesthetic. Oak wood is also very durable and can easily withstand the wear and tear of a busy family kitchen.
If you’re in the market for new cabinetry, you can purchase oak cabinets pre-finished to save on installation time and cost. If you already have old oak cabinets, you can give them a new lease on life by refinishing them yourself. This DIY project is easy enough for any homeowner to do, but it’s essential that you know what you’re doing before you begin.
First, you’ll need to sand the cabinets to remove imperfections, such as dents or dings. Use a combination of an orbital sander and hand sanding or a small detail sander with 120 grit to prepare the surface for refinishing. After sanding, you’ll need to apply a shellac-based primer and a light coat of polyurethane to protect the finish and prevent it from chipping or peeling.
It’s essential to use a high-quality polyurethane with UV inhibitors to prevent the luster from fading and extend the life of your finish. Once the poly has cured, you can sand it again for a smooth finish and add another coat of poly to create an even, durable sheen.
For environmentally-conscious homeowners, oak is a sustainable choice. Many oak kitchen cabinets are sourced from responsibly managed forests, making them an eco-friendly option. Moreover, oak’s durability means that the cabinets have a long lifespan, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing waste.
You’ll also need to sand between coats to prevent an uneven finish. Be sure to sand with the grain, not against it. Once you’re done sanding, you can wipe down your cabinets to clean them and then reassemble them using the original hardware. Consider white oak kitchen cabinet doors if you want to upgrade your kitchen without spending a fortune. They’re eye-catching, fit a variety of trends, and are durable enough to last for years to come.
