Should you paint your cabinets or replace them entirely? In this episode of The Exceptional Painting Podcast, Mihai and Tanner break down the real costs, trade-offs, and long-term benefits of cabinet painting versus full replacement.
Whether you're planning a kitchen renovation or just tired of outdated cabinetry, this episode gives you practical insights to help you make the smartest decision for your home.
Key Discussion Points & Takeaways
Why your kitchen cabinets play a key role in your home’s overall aesthetic and functionality
Cabinet replacement: when it makes sense and what it really costs
The pros and cons of MDF vs. solid wood in modern cabinet construction
What cabinet refacing is—and why most homeowners skip it
Why professional cabinet painting is growing in popularity
The difference between painting and refinishing (and why it matters)
How long cabinet refinishing takes and how disruptive the process is
Environmental benefits of keeping your existing cabinets
How to extend the life of painted cabinets with proper maintenance
Recommended products for durability, including Renner and Advance paints
Hybrid options: mixing DIY and professional help to save money
Durability expectations: what impacts longevity and how to maintain your cabinets properly
00:00 – Intro: Cabinet Painting vs. Replacing00:41 – Why Cabinets Matter More Than You Think01:45 – Full Replacement: Pros, Cons & Costs03:04 – MDF vs. Solid Wood: What You Need to Know04:20 – Refacing vs. Painting: Which One Wins05:17 – The Rise of Cabinet Painting06:32 – Why DIY Cabinet Painting Usually Fails07:03 – Painting vs. Refinishing: Big Difference07:45 – How Long It Takes (And How It Disrupts Your Life)09:01 – Renovation vs. Refinish: Hidden Stressors10:07 – Want New Doors? Keep the Boxes.11:10 – How This All Started for Exceptional Painting13:42 – What We Learned Through Experience15:19 – Working with Different Types of Wood15:55 – Planning Ahead for Spring Projects16:33 – Winter Painting? Absolutely17:06 – How to Make Cabinets Last 10+ Years19:03 – Avoid Water Damage, Save Your Finish21:08 – What Paint Should You Use? (Renner vs. Advance)21:49 – Real Lifespan of Painted Cabinets22:50 – All the Options Recapped24:06 – Final Thoughts + What to Do Next
