Outdoor kitchens can be a wonderful addition to any home, allowing you to cook, dine, and entertain outdoors. However, protecting your outdoor kitchen cabinets from the elements is crucial. Choosing the right finish for your outdoor kitchen cabinets will help keep them looking beautiful for years to come. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of selecting, preparing, and applying finishes to protect your outdoor kitchen cabinetry investment.
Selecting the Right Finish for Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
When selecting a finish for your outdoor kitchen cabinets, you’ll need to consider carefully which option will hold up best to your specific climate conditions.
Durability
Durability is key when choosing an outdoor cabinet finish. Humidity, rain, snow, and UV rays can quickly deteriorate finishes not made for exterior use. Opt for finishes specifically engineered for outdoor use.
Weather Conditions
Consider your specific weather conditions. For example, if you live in a rainy climate, choose finishes that retain their color and sheen even after heavy exposure to moisture. In sunny locales, UV resistant finishes are a must.
Desired Aesthetic
Do you want a natural wood look or prefer painted cabinets? This will guide your finish selection.
Ease of Application
Some finishes like paint can be brushed on without professional experience. More advanced finishes like marine varnish require greater skill. Factor in your DIY abilities.
Ongoing Maintenance
Consider how much upkeep you’re willing to invest in your finish. Some like paint will need frequent touching up while others like PVC laminate require minimal maintenance.
Recommended Finishes for Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
Below are some of the most popular and effective options for finishing outdoor kitchen cabinetry:
Marine Varnish
- Extremely durable 2-part epoxy finish.
- Provides optimal moisture, mold, mildew, and UV resistance.
- Maintains natural wood look.
- Requires most skill to apply.
- Needs sanding and reapplication every 1-2 years.
Exterior Paint
- Available in unlimited color options.
- Provides decent moisture and UV resistance when high quality options used.
- Relatively easy DIY application.
- Needs frequent touch ups.
- Can peel or crack over time.
PVC Laminate
- Seamless plastic laminate sheets.
- Most waterproof and low maintenance option.
- Resists moisture, warping, termites.
- Limit to solid color options only.
- Professional installation recommended.
Teak Oil
- Enhances natural wood grain.
- Decent moisture resistance.
- Easy to apply.
- Needs frequent reapplication (~6 months).
- Minimal UV protection.
Outdoor Stain
- Color options while allowing wood grain to show through.
- More frequent reapplication needed than varnish.
- Provides decent moisture resistance.
- Minimal UV protection.
Preparing Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets for Finishing
Proper preparation is crucial to achieve smooth, long-lasting finish results. Here are key steps to take:
1. Choose Exterior Grade Materials
Using moisture-resistant plywood or MDF specifically rated for exterior use will prevent warping or deterioration. Opt for stainless steel hardware and fixtures.
2. Clean Surfaces Thoroughly
Use TSP substitute cleaner to remove grease, dirt, or other grime. Rinse and let dry fully. Sand surfaces lightly to improve finish adhesion.
3. Fill Any Holes and Cracks
Use waterproof wood filler to patch any imperfections for a smooth finish. Let dry fully before sanding smooth.
4. Apply Primer
For painted surfaces, use high quality exterior primer to improve topcoat adhesion and provide extra moisture protection.
5. Lightly Sand Between Coats
This helps each layer bond tightly together. Wipe away dust before applying the next finish coat.
6. Remove Doors and Hardware
Finishing will be easier without cabinet doors or hardware in the way. Save hardware in labelled bags for easy reinstallation.
Applying Marine Varnish Finish to Outdoor Cabinets
For optimal outdoor protection with a natural wood look, marine varnish is a top choice. Here’s how to achieve professional results:
Supplies Needed
- High quality marine varnish (atleast 3 coats)
- Foam brushes
- 220 grit sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Drop cloth
- Painters tape
- Mineral spirits
Steps
- Lightly sand cabinet surfaces with 220 grit sandpaper to prep for finish.
- Vacuum and use a tack cloth to remove any dust.
- Apply first coat in direction of wood grain using a foam brush. Work in sections and maintain a wet edge.
- Let dry 2-4 hours and sand lightly with 220 grit sandpaper.
- Wipe away dust with a tack cloth and apply second coat. Let dry completely.
- Sand again lightly with 220 grit sandpaper and wipe clean.
- Apply third and final coat. Allow to cure fully 72 hours before use.
- Reinstall hardware and doors.
- Regularly inspect for wear and reapply 1-2 coats yearly as needed.
Varnish has a learning curve, so practice on scrap wood to perfect your technique. Follow application directions carefully. With proper prep and application, a varnish finish can last 5+ years on outdoor kitchen cabinets.
Painting Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
Painting is a budget-friendly way to colorize your outdoor cabinetry. Follow these tips for best results:
Supplies Needed
- Exterior paint primer
- Exterior grade acrylic latex paint
- Paint brushes
- 220 grit sandpaper
- Tack cloth
- Painters tape
Steps
- Clean and dry cabinet surfaces thoroughly. Lightly sand to improve adhesion.
- Tape off any areas you don’t want painted. Spread drop cloths.
- Apply 1-2 coats of exterior primer, allowing proper dry time between coats.
- Lightly sand primed surfaces with 220 grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust.
- Apply two finish coats of exterior acrylic latex paint in the color of your choice.
- Allow paint to cure fully 72 hours before use.
- Touch up paint yearly as needed. Thoroughly repaint every 3-5 years.
Choosing high quality primer and paint formulated for exterior use is key. Proper prep work helps the paint adhere tightly. Maintain your painted cabinets by quickly touching up scrapes or damaged areas.
Applying PVC Laminate to Outdoor Cabinets
For the most waterproof finish, PVC laminate sheets provide seamless coverage:
Supplies Needed
- PVC laminate sheets
- Outdoor adhesive
- Seam tape
- Utility knife
- J-roller
- Caulking gun
Steps
- Clean and dry all cabinet surfaces thoroughly before applying laminate.
- Measure cabinets and cut laminate sheets to size using a utility knife and straightedge.
- Apply exterior grade adhesive evenly to cabinet surfaces using a caulking gun.
- Press laminate sheets onto adhesive, using a J-roller to remove any air bubbles.
- Trim edges neatly using a utility knife. Seal seams with waterproof seam tape.
- Once adhesive has cured, use silicone caulk to seal all edges and seams.
PVC laminate installation is best performed by experienced professionals as perfectly seamless results require skilled technique. Hiring a contractor is recommended, but possible as a DIY project with care.
Maintaining and Protecting Your Finished Outdoor Cabinets
No finish will last forever, especially when exposed to harsh outdoor elements. Here are some tips to make your finish last as long as possible:
- Inspect cabinets frequently for any wear, damage, cracks, or mold growth. Catch issues early and repair as needed.
- Keep cabinets free of dirt, debris, and grime which can deteriorate finishes faster. Use mild cleaners and gentle techniques.
- Consider installing cabinets under a covered area or patio roof to provide additional protection from rain and sun.
- Avoid letting water pool on horizontal surfaces which can lead to warping. Ensure proper drainage.
- Reapply protective finish coats as needed to refresh protection and fill in any hairline cracks.
- Remove doors and hardware during winter or hurricane seasons to prevent damage.
- Apply UV protective sealants to paints and varnishes to extend their lifespan.
Taking steps to care for and maintain your outdoor kitchen cabinet finishes will help enhance their durability and keep your outdoor kitchen looking its best for longer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most durable finish options for outdoor cabinets?
Marine varnish and PVC laminate finishes are best for resisting moisture, UV rays, and other outdoor elements. They require the least frequent maintenance.
Can I use indoor cabinet finishes outside?
Finishes made for indoor use only will quickly fail in outdoor conditions. Always choose options specifically engineered to resist sun, rain, and humidity.
Do I need to use primer before painting outdoor cabinets?
High quality exterior primer improves paint adhesion and provides added moisture protection. It is highly recommended before any topcoat.
How long does varnish or paint last on outdoor cabinets?
With proper preparation and application, marine varnish can last approximately 5 years before needing renewal. Exterior paint holds up 1-3 years typically before requiring repainting.
Is it okay to finish assembled cabinets or best to finish before assembly?
Finishing cabinets is optimal before assembly. This allows for finishing the interior and access to all sides. Finish doors and frames separately prior to hanging.
How soon can I use my outdoor kitchen after applying a finish?
Allow all finishes several days to cure fully before regular use. Check manufacturer directions, but typically 3-7 days is needed for varnish or paint to harden properly before use.
Conclusion
Adding beautiful and functional cabinetry to your outdoor cooking space can take it to the next level. But proper finishing is essential to keep outdoor cabinets looking pristine despite harsh weathering. With the right exterior grade preparation, finish, ongoing maintenance, and TLC, your outdoor kitchen cabinets can stay luminous for many seasons of al fresco cooking to come. Use this guide to select the ideal finish option for your specific climate and cabinet material. With some diligence and care, you can enjoy stunning outdoor cabinetry for years on end.