If you’ve been staring at your tired kitchen cabinets, wondering if it’s worth the hassle to repaint them, I get it — it feels like a big job. But the good news? Painting already-painted kitchen cabinets is not just doable, it’s honestly one of the best ways to freshen up your space without spending a fortune.
At Liverpool, we help homeowners all over Liverpool breathe new life into their homes, and today, I’m sharing what I’ve learned firsthand about how to do it right.
At Vivid View Painters experienced cabinet and interior painters in Liverpool, we help homeowners to paint their house smooth and eficently.
Can You Really Paint Over Painted Cabinets?
Absolutely — and I’m speaking from real experience here.
Painting over painted cabinets is completely fine, as long as you do the prep properly. Skipping steps like cleaning, sanding, or priming will only leave you frustrated later when the paint starts peeling or looking patchy. Trust me, a bit of extra effort at the start saves a lot of headaches down the track.
If you’re removing old cabinets before painting, it’s worth getting help from local furniture and cabinet removal experts to save time and effort.
Why Weather and Temperature Matter More Than You Think
When you’re painting, whether inside or outside, the weather plays a bigger role than most people realise. Even inside, temperature and humidity sneak up on you if you’re not paying attention.
What Temperature is Too Cold or Too Hot for Painting?
Here’s the truth from someone who’s been there:
- Too Cold: Anything under 10°C is risky. Paint thickens, dries badly, and sometimes won’t cure at all — leaving you with sticky, easily damaged cabinets.
- Too Hot: Above 32°C? Not ideal either. Paint dries way too fast, causing brush marks, patchy spots, or even cracks as it shrinks.
How Weather Affects Drying and Adhesion
- Humidity: Slows down drying, making the paint feel tacky for hours. Dust and pet hair love sticking to tacky paint.
- Wind: If you’re painting outside or even near open windows, a gust of wind can ruin a perfect finish with dust and debris.
- Rain: Even if you’re painting indoors, high moisture in the air from rain can make drying a nightmare.
My best advice? Always check the forecast before you pick up a brush. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
Best Time of Day to Paint
After years of painting, I can confidently say:
The sweet spot is late morning after any dew has dried or mid-afternoon once the heat of the day has passed.
Avoid the middle of the day, especially in summer — that blazing sun isn’t your friend when it comes to getting a smooth, professional finish.
Choosing the Right Paint for the Season
- Latex (Water-Based) Paints: Ideal for spring and autumn. They dry faster and are easier to clean up but can be fussy if it’s too cold or humid.
- Oil-Based Paints: They’re a bit more forgiving with temperatures and tend to level out smoother, but they take longer to dry. Perfect if you’re not rushing the job.
My personal favourite for kitchen cabinets? A high-quality water-based enamel — it gives you that hard, smooth finish without all the fumes of oil-based paints.
Practical Tips for Painting Painted Kitchen Cabinets
- Always Check the Weather: Look for 3–5 days of stable, mild weather if you’re painting outside or in a garage.
- Prep Like a Pro: Degrease, sand lightly, and prime. Don’t cut corners — your finish depends on it.
- Invest in Good Tools: A cheap brush or roller can ruin hours of hard work. Trust me, spending a bit more upfront is well worth it.
- Don’t Rush Drying Time: Let each coat dry properly. If it feels even slightly tacky, give it more time.
- Keep Air Moving: Open windows, run a fan — good airflow helps paint dry stronger and smoother.
At the end of the day, painting your kitchen cabinets is a bit of a labour of love. But if you do it right, the results are absolutely worth it — and you’ll feel a real sense of pride every time you walk into your kitchen.
If you’d rather leave it to the pros, professional house painters in Australia can get the job done quickly and with a flawless finish.
Quick FAQs About Painting Painted Kitchen Cabinets
1. Do I really need to sand painted cabinets first?
Yes, even a light sanding makes a huge difference in helping the new paint stick properly.
2. What type of paint works best for cabinets?
High-quality semi-gloss or satin enamel paints are the go-to for durability and a nice wipeable finish.
3. How long does it take for cabinet paint to fully cure?
While it might feel dry to touch in a few hours, full curing usually takes about 3 to 4 weeks.
4. Can I paint kitchen cabinets during winter?
Yes, if your home stays above 10°C and you have good ventilation, you’re good to go.
5. Is spraying better than brushing?
Spraying gives the smoothest, most professional-looking finish, but brushing and rolling work just fine if you prep properly.