Understanding Cabinet Finishes With Brad “the Cabinet Man” Tovani

Understanding Cabinet Finishes: What Works Best and Why

With over 30 years of building and finishing cabinets, I’ve seen first-hand how the right finish can make or break the quality and look of a piece. Cabinets don’t just need to look good – they need to stand up to daily use in spaces like kitchens and bathrooms, where they’re put to the test every day. Here’s a guide to some of the top cabinet finishes out there, what makes them worth using, and how to choose the right one for your space.

1. Lacquer Finish: Smooth and Sturdy

• Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, or any high-traffic area
• Why It’s Great: Creates a sleek look that’s strong enough for daily use

Lacquer is a go-to finish if you’re after that smooth, modern look with lasting durability. It’s sprayed on in thin coats, which dry fast and build up a solid layer that can handle moisture and heat – just what’s needed for a busy kitchen or bathroom.

Why Choose Lacquer? If you’re looking for a clean, polished look that’ll hold up over time, lacquer is a great choice. Just keep in mind that high gloss might show a few fingerprints, so it’s a good choice for those who don’t mind a bit of upkeep.

2. Polyurethane Finish: Built to Last

• Best For: Kitchens, bathrooms, or any heavy-use area
• Why It’s Great: Offers top-notch durability with options for different sheens

Polyurethane is one of the toughest finishes around, and it’s a favorite for a reason. It holds up well against heat, spills, and all the daily wear cabinets get in busy areas. With options from satin to high gloss, it’s easy to match the look you want with the protection you need.

Why Choose Polyurethane? This is a no-nonsense finish if you want strength and style in one. It’s easy to clean, and you can count on it to keep your cabinets looking sharp for years to come.

3. Oil-Based Finishes: Warm and Natural

• Best For: Traditional kitchens, rustic styles, or any wood-heavy designs
• Why It’s Great: Brings out the wood grain with a warm, natural tone

Oil-based finishes like tung oil or linseed oil are old-school for a reason. They soak right into the wood, bringing out the grain and giving it a rich, warm tone. You’ll need to reapply it now and then, but for a classic, natural look, it’s hard to beat.

Why Choose Oil-Based? If you’re drawn to the natural character of wood, oil-based finishes will bring out the best in it. Just know that it takes a little more care to keep it looking fresh.

4. Water-Based Finish: Clear and Clean

• Best For: Any room, especially if you’re after something environmentally friendly
• Why It’s Great: Keeps the natural color of the wood and is low in VOCs

Water-based finishes are clear and don’t yellow over time, so they’re a solid choice if you want the wood’s natural color to stay true. They dry fast, have low odor, and are easy on the environment – a good choice if you’re looking for something eco-friendly.

Why Choose Water-Based? If keeping the wood’s natural look is a priority, or if you’re sensitive to strong smells, water-based is a great option. It might not be as tough as polyurethane, but it’s easy to reapply and keeps your space air-friendly.

5. Varnish: Traditional and Tough

• Best For: High-moisture areas like kitchens or bathrooms
• Why It’s Great: Seals the wood for top-notch protection against water, heat, and stains

Varnish has been around forever for good reason – it does the job of sealing and protecting wood, especially in spots where water and heat are a factor. It’s available in gloss or satin finishes, so you can get the look you want with solid protection underneath.

Why Choose Varnish? If you want a classic look and a finish that can handle the elements, varnish is a solid choice. It takes some patience to apply, but it’s worth the effort for cabinets built to last.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Cabinets

Here’s what to keep in mind when picking a cabinet finish:

• How You Use the Space: Kitchens and bathrooms need a finish that can take a bit of a beating, like polyurethane or varnish.
• The Look You’re After: For a clean, polished look, lacquer’s a winner. If you want a natural, warm tone, oil-based is the way to go.
• Maintenance Needs: Polyurethane and lacquer are low maintenance. Oil-based finishes will need a touch-up every so often to keep their look.
• Environmental Impact: Water-based finishes are low in VOCs, which is a plus for air quality.

Bottom Line

Each finish has its strong points, and the best one comes down to how you want your cabinets to look and function over time. With 30+ years of experience, I’ve seen just about everything these finishes can do, and choosing the right one can make all the difference. Whether you’re going for style, durability, or both, the right finish keeps your cabinets looking good and working hard.

Disclaimer: Brad the Cabinet Man is not a licensed contractor but has over 30 years of experience in cabinet craftsmanship. His expertise provides a robust understanding of cabinet finishes. For projects requiring a licensed contractor, please consult a qualified professional as per local regulations.

---