Resurfacing, Reglazing, Refinishing, Re-enameling: What’s the Difference?
If kitchen cabinets are in decent condition and just require a facelift, it’s possible to refinish the cabinets instead of replacing them. Refinishing is a cost-effective way to keep the kitchen you currently have while getting the look you’ve been dreaming of.
When deciding on how to refinish your kitchen cabinets, you may hear about the different terms such as resurfacing, reglazing, re-enameling, and refinishing. Some of these terms are used interchangeably. To explain your options better, here are a few of the popular methods of refinishing cabinets in Australia.
Two Pac/Single Pac Painting (in-home)
This method of refinishing is when a painter paints the kitchen cabinets while they are still installed in the kitchen. The process can involve either a two pac or single pac paint. Two pac paint is suggested as it is more durable and higher quality than single pac.
Advantages: This is a tempting option for many homeowners because the cabinets don’t have to be taken apart then reinstalled. In-home refinishing may be cheaper than if they are professionally painted in a factory since the cost is lower for the refinisher.
Disadvantages: The dust and hair in a home can collect on the paint before it has the chance to dry. To achieve the highest quality finish, cabinets should be sprayed in a controlled environment. The toxic fumes from painting will remain in a home after the cabinets are painted.
Professional Two Pac Painting (factory)
This method of refinishing is when cabinets are taken to a factory to be professionally painted with two-pack paint. They are sanded then sprayed with high quality two pack paint in a controlled environment, then returned to the home and reinstalled.
Advantages: This is a great option for homeowners who want to avoid toxins, chemicals, or fumes in their home, since all work is completed in a factory. There are no contractors constantly in and out of the home. And the finish quality will be excellent since it is completed in a controlled environment.
Disadvantages: This generally takes longer than an in-home refinish or resurfacing since the cabinet doors need to dismantled, transported and re-installed.
*To ensure quality finishes, this is the process offered by Dianella Polishing*
Resurfacing (in-home)
This method of refinishing is also called ‘reglazing’ or ‘re-enameling’. It is a process where cabinets are sprayed in the home with a tough polymer to create a hard coating. This process is newer to Australia, but gaining in popularity.
Advantages: The process typically only takes about 2-3 days. It is possible to get countertop, flooring, and tubs refinished with this method as well.
Disadvantages: Many of the chemicals used in resurfacing are flammable, and can even explode. There have been incidents of explosions in homes during resurfacing when the resurfacer doesn’t follow the strict guidelines.
Whichever option you decide to go with, be sure to check out the company thoroughly. Ask to see a finished project and read their online reviews to find out if the company provides quality service.
Good Luck!
Now, read about how to Choose the Right Gloss Level for Your Project
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