Painting outdoor wood cabinets can protect them from the elements and make them last longer. Choosing the right paint is important to get a durable and attractive finish that will hold up outside. Here is an in-depth look at the best options for painting outdoor wood cabinets.
Introduction
Outdoor wood cabinets face a tough environment. Sun, rain, snow and temperature changes can cause the wood to crack, warp, and allow moisture inside. A good exterior paint creates a protective barrier to prevent this damage.
When selecting paint for outdoor wood cabinets, there are a few key things to consider:
- Durability – The paint needs to stand up to sun, rain, snow and seasonal temperature changes without chipping, peeling or fading.
- Adhesion – It needs to bond tightly to the wood surface for a long-lasting finish.
- Moisture resistance – The paint should repel water and prevent moisture from penetrating the wood.
- Aesthetics – Choose paint colors and finishes that enhance the look of your outdoor space.
With the right prep work and painting technique, these cabinet paints can provide a beautifully durable finish.
Paint Options for Outdoor Wood Cabinets
Acrylic Latex Paint
Acrylic latex paint, or acrylic enamel, is a top choice for outdoor wood surfaces. Here’s why it works well:
- Durability – Acrylic latex forms a durable, protective finish that resists chipping, peeling and fading.
- Adhesion – It bonds tightly to wood cabinet surfaces for a long-lasting finish.
- Moisture resistance – Acrylic latex paint is highly water-resistant. It repels liquid water while allowing wood to breathe.
- Easy to apply – It goes on smoothly and cleans up with soap and water.
- Variety – Acrylic latex paints come in a wide range of sheens and colors for different looks. Satin or semi-gloss finishes often hold up best outside.
When choosing acrylic latex paint, look for exterior grade formulas made specifically for outdoor use. These are formulated to withstand sun, rain and temperature swings.
Oil-Based Alkyd Paint
Alkyd paint, also called oil-based enamel, provides another good option for outdoor wood cabinetry:
- Extreme durability – Alkyd enamels provide a tougher, more scratch-resistant finish than acrylics.
- Ideal adhesion – Alkyds soak into wood and form a tight bond for impressively long-lasting protection.
- Moisture blocking – The thick film build repels liquid water better than most latex paints.
- Rich gloss – Alkyds dry to a smooth, glossy sheen that enhances wood grain.
The drawbacks are longer dry times, strong odor, and more difficult cleanup with mineral spirits. Make sure to choose exterior grade alkyd enamel.
Marine Paint
Another option is marine paint, designed for boats and other structures exposed to moisture:
- Maximum durability – Marine enamels withstand sun, rain, salt spray and humidity longer than standard paints.
- Excellent adhesion – They bond tenaciously to wood and other materials to resist corrosion and breakdown.
- Total moisture resistance – The tough finish prevents moisture intrusion into the wood.
- UV protection – Marine paints contain UV absorbers to prevent fading and film degradation.
- High-gloss finish – Many marine paints dry to an attractive glossy sheen.
While marine paint requires the most effort to apply, it provides the toughest, longest-lasting finish for outdoor wood cabinets.
Preparing Wood Cabinets for Painting
Proper prep work before painting is crucial for good results:
- Inspect the cabinets for cracks, chips, abrasions or any existing paint issues. Repair as needed.
- Remove doors, hardware, and shelving for easier access. Number doors for reinstallation.
- Clean surfaces thoroughly with TSP substitute to remove dirt, grease, mildew and other contaminants.
- Sand surfaces with 120-150 grit sandpaper to rough up the existing finish. This helps paint adhere.
- Spot prime bare wood with an oil-based primer. Allow to dry completely.
- Apply 1-2 coats of high quality acrylic or alkyd exterior primer to the full cabinet. Primer provides an essential foundation for the finish paint.
- Replace any rotten wood, prime repairs, and let them fully cure before finish painting.
Thorough prep removes contaminants and gives paint the profile it needs to bond tightly.
How to Paint Outdoor Wood Cabinets
Follow these tips for the best results:
- Choose ideal conditions – Paint on a dry day when temperatures are between 50-90°F. Avoid painting in direct sun.
- Use quality brushes/rollers – Invest in good paint brushes and a smooth nap roller cover. Replace worn rollers.
- Apply in thin coats – Apply paint in thin, even coats to prevent drips and runs. Allow proper drying time between coats.
- Add a third coat – For maximum protection, apply three coats of exterior paint to your cabinets.
- Work methodically – Paint systematically to ensure coverage without missing spots. Pay special attention to end grains which absorb more paint.
- Check adhesion – After the final coat dries, check adhesion by applying a piece of masking tape to the painted surface, then peeling it up. Good paint adhesion will show crisp edges where the tape was applied.
- Clean brushes – Clean brushes and rollers promptly in the appropriate solvent.
Proper paint application technique leads to a smooth, durable finish on your outdoor cabinets.
6 Key Tips for Outdoor Wood Cabinet Paint
Follow these top tips when selecting and applying paint:
1. Choose exterior-grade acrylic or alkyd paint – For outdoor use, stick with heavy-duty exterior paints like acrylic latex or alkyd enamel. Avoid interior paint.
2. Check the weather forecast – Paint when dry conditions are predicted for proper drying. Avoid painting in direct sun, rain, or high humidity.
3. Prepare the surface well – Proper sanding, cleaning, and priming ensure paint bonds tightly to the wood.
4. Apply in thin, even coats – Use good technique to prevent drips, sags, and brush marks. Allow full drying time between coats.
5. Add a third coat – Three coats provide better protection and more complete hiding than just two coats.
6. Check for adhesion – When fully dry, check paint adhesion with a piece of masking tape. Look for crisp paint edges when removing the tape.
Maintaining Outdoor Wood Cabinets
To keep your painted wood cabinets looking their best:
- Inspect cabinets annually for any paint cracks, blisters or peeling. Make touch ups right away.
- Clean cabinets periodically with a mild detergent and soft brush. Avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Consider applying a fresh coat of paint every 2-3 years. Watch for fading or gloss loss.
- Monitor any cabinet hardware for rusting. Remove rust and re-paint or replace hardware as needed.
- Keep cabinets caulked tightly to walls to prevent moisture intrusion behind them. Re-caulk any gaps.
- Adjust or tighten any cabinet doors that sag over time to keep the structure sound.
- Refasten any loose cabinet corner braces, shelf pins or hinges to maintain integrity.
With proper prep, paint selection and care, your outdoor wood cabinets can stay beautiful and functional for years of backyard enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of paint lasts the longest on outdoor wood cabinets?
Exterior acrylic latex and alkyd (oil-based) paints last the longest on outdoor wood when applied properly. For maximum durability, marine enamels designed for boats and exteriors withstand sun and moisture the best.
How long does exterior paint last on wood cabinets outside?
With adequate preparation and two to three coats applied, exterior acrylic latex or alkyd paint can last up to 5-7 years on outdoor wood cabinets before needing touch ups or refreshing. Marine paint can last even longer – up to 10 years before recoating.
Should primer be used on outdoor wood cabinets?
Yes, primer is highly recommended before painting outdoor wood cabinets. Exterior wood primer seals the wood surface and allows for superior paint adhesion and durability. Oil-based primers work especially well on bare exterior wood.
What kind of sheen is best for painting outdoor cabinets?
Satin and semi-gloss sheens are ideal finishes for outdoor wood cabinets. Satin is smooth with a subtle sheen, while semi-gloss offers a bit more shine. Both repel moisture well. Avoid flat/matte finishes outside as they show dirt and can absorb moisture.
Can cabinets be painted without sanding or priming?
It’s not recommended. Light sanding creates a surface profile for paint to grip. Priming seals the wood for protection. Omitting these steps often leads to paint failure down the road. Proper prep leads to longer-lasting painted finishes.
Conclusion
Choosing the right exterior paint and applying it properly helps outdoor wood cabinets stand up to the elements for years. Acrylic latex, alkyd enamel, or marine paint all provide durable, moisture-resistant finishes. With proper preparation, application and ongoing maintenance, you can keep your outdoor cabinets looking like new and enhancing your exterior living space.