Choosing the right type of finish for your outdoor kitchen cabinets is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when designing and building your outdoor cooking space. The finish protects the wood or material of the cabinets from the elements and determines how your outdoor kitchen will look, feel, and perform over time. With so many options to consider, it can be overwhelming to select the best finish for your climate, budget, and style. This comprehensive guide examines the most popular finishes for outdoor kitchen cabinets to help you make the perfect choice.
Types of Finishes for Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
When researching finishes, you’ll encounter three main categories:
Paints
Paint comes in various sheens like flat, eggshell, semi-gloss, and high gloss. It can be used on many cabinet materials, provides ample color options, and is budget friendly. However, it may require frequent touch ups and reapplication.
Stains
Stains enhance the natural wood grain while providing protection. Oil-based stains offer more durability than water-based ones. Stains come in opaque and semi-transparent options.
Sealers
Sealers like polyurethane and varnish create a protective coating over paint or stain. Oil-based versions provide the most waterproofing. Marine-grade finishes are extremely durable options.
Consider the pros and cons of each category to determine what’s best for your specific outdoor space.
Best Finish Options for Outdoor Kitchens
Here are the top finishes to consider for outdoor cabinets:
Oil-Based Polyurethane
- Overview: Polyurethane is a sealer that provides a clear, plastic-like coating. Oil-based versions contain UV inhibitors to resist sun damage.
- Benefits: Excellent moisture resistance. Enhances natural wood grain. Multiple coats increase protection.
- Drawbacks: Requires sanding between coats. Fades over time. Can yellow from sun exposure. Emits strong fumes.
- Cost: $$$
Spar Urethane
- Overview: Spar urethane is a marine-grade sealer that creates a sleek glossy finish. It’s more flexible than regular polyurethane.
- Benefits: Withstands sun, water, and mildew damage. Long-lasting coating. Easy to clean.
- Drawbacks: Slow drying time. Must reapply every 1-2 years. Toxic fumes.
- Cost: $$$
Paint with Enamel Top Coat
- Overview: A latex paint with an enamel sealer creates a colorful, glossy finish. Use exterior paint grades.
- Benefits: Wide range of colors. Enamel is durable and moisture-resistant. Lower odor than oils.
- Drawbacks: Requires primer on bare wood. Prone to chipping over time.
- Cost: $$
Teak Oil
- Overview: Teak oil is a durable finish made for dense, oily woods like teak and ipe. It contains UV blockers.
- Benefits: Accents wood grain. Resists water, mildew, and UV damage. Low maintenance.
- Drawbacks: Requires reapplication every year. Long drying time. Difficult to apply evenly.
- Cost: $$
Marine Varnish
- Overview: Marine varnish has UV absorbers to prevent fading and damage from sun exposure.
- Benefits: Provides excellent moisture resistance. Dries hard to prevent scratching. Maintains wood’s natural color.
- Drawbacks: Requires sanding between 4-6 coats. Yellows over time. Toxic fumes.
- Cost: $$$$
Tung Oil
- Overview: Tung oil is derived from the tung tree nut. It penetrates wood to provide a protective, water-resistant finish.
- Benefits: Resists moisture, rot, and pests. Non-toxic, low VOC. Enhances natural wood look.
- Drawbacks: Requires reapplication every 1-2 years. Long cure time. Can darken light woods.
- Cost: $$
Based on the climate in your region and your maintenance preferences, select a finish that will hold up well and enhance your wood cabinets’ appearance.
Which Finish is Best for Your Climate?
The amount of moisture, sun exposure, and extreme temperatures your area experiences should guide your finish choice.
Humid Climates
Frequent rain, storms, and high humidity demand the most water-resistant finishes:
- Marine varnish
- Spar urethane
- Oil-based polyurethane
- Teak oil
- Paint with enamel top coat
Reapply these finishes yearly before wet seasons arrive to maintain protection.
Sunny, Hot Climates
Intense sun and heat require finishes with UV inhibitors and durability:
- Polyurethane with UV inhibitors
- Spar varnish
- Marine varnish
- Paint with enamel top coat
Refresh coats frequently to prevent fading and cracking.
Cold, Snowy Climates
Extreme cold can cause some finishes to peel. Prioritize flexible options:
- Oil-based polyurethane
- Marine varnish
- High-quality latex paint
- Teak oil
Avoid brittle finishes like shellac. Reapply before winter.
Select finishes rated for low temperatures. Store finishes in a warm area before applying.
Finish Recommendations by Wood Type
Certain finishes work best with specific cabinet wood species based on porosity, oil content, and natural color.
Teak
- Teak oil to accentuate golden color
- Spar varnish for protection
- Marine varnish for sun protection
Cedar
- Polyurethane preserves natural tones
- Tung oil for a clear finish
- Paint if staining isn’t preferred
Ipe
- Teak oil to enhance grain
- Polyurethane or varnish
- Avoid paints – ipe is naturally rot-resistant
Pine
- Paint for an opaque look
- Polyurethane for protection
- Gel stain to limit blotchiness
Maple
- Polyurethane to enrich grain
- Marine varnish for outdoor use
- Paint creates a smooth look
Oak
- Polyurethane enhances grain patterns
- Spar varnish for humid areas
- Teak oil for a natural appearance
Alder
- Pre-conditioner prevents blotchy stains
- Polyurethane or varnish
Match your finish to the unique properties of the wood species for optimal performance.
Finish Sheens for Outdoor Kitchen Cabinets
Finish sheens impact the look, durability, and ease of cleaning of your outdoor cabinetry:
Matte
Flat, non-reflective finish. Hides imperfections. Requires frequent cleaning. Avoid in wet settings.
Satin
Subtle luster. Resists stains and fingerprints. Durable and easy to clean. Ideal for high-traffic areas.
Semi-Gloss
Medium reflectivity. Provides vivid color. Resistant to moisture, stains, mildew. Requires regular dusting.
Gloss
Shiny, mirrored finish. Enhances wood grain. Shows water spots and smudges. Use sparingly on accent details.
Prioritize harder, glossier sheens around sinks, grills, and food prep areas for durability and easy wiping. Satin or semi-gloss are good all-purpose finishes.
Application Tips by Finish Type
Proper preparation and application techniques ensure finishes cure correctly and provide maximum protection:
Paint:
- Sand surface
- Wipe away dust
- Apply exterior primer on bare wood
- Allow primer to fully dry
- Lightly sand primer
- Apply two coats of outdoor paint
- Allow each coat to dry 24 hours
Stain:
- Sand wood lightly with 220 grit sandpaper
- Remove dust with tack cloth
- Apply exterior wood conditioner for even staining
- Test stain on inconspicuous spot
- Use foam brush to apply stain with the wood grain
- Wipe away excess stain after 2-3 minutes
- Allow to dry completely per manufacturer instructions before sealing
Sealers:
- Apply to clean, dry surfaces
- Lightly sand between coats with 220 grit sandpaper
- Maintain wet edge to prevent lap marks
- Apply minimum 2-3 coats for protection
- Allow proper drying time between coats
Careful surface prep and following product instructions will result in a smooth, durable finish. Consider hiring a professional if you lack experience applying finishes.
Maintaining and Renewing Finishes
No finish lasts forever, especially on outdoor surfaces exposed to the elements. Maintain protection by:
- Washing cabinets annually with mild detergent and water
- Applying renewal coats as needed, typically every 1-2 years
- Sanding lightly to degloss surfaces before reapplying
- Spot treating any damaged or worn areas
- Keeping wood moisturized with food-safe mineral oil
Refrain from using harsh cleaners or abrasives. Renew finishes before breakdown occurs to limit wood damage. With proper care, you can keep your outdoor cabinets looking like new for many years.
Outdoor Kitchen Cabinet Finish Ideas
Now that you know about finish options for outdoor cabinets, here are some stylish ideas to inspire your space:
Bright White Paint
White painted cabinets feel airy and timeless. Use an enamel topcoat for durability. Include glass-front accent cabinets to display serveware.
Walnut Stain
Bring warmth to modern designs with simple, earthy walnut tones. Use satin polyurethane over stain to highlight the natural wood.
Navy Blue Painted Island
Make your grill island the focal point by painting it a rich navy. Contrast with gray stained base cabinets and white uppers.
Teak Finish
Tropical inspired kitchens look luxe with teak’s naturally golden hue. Use teak oil to enhance and protect its color.
Natural Cedar
Let cedar’s knotty, textured look shine by sealing it with tung oil. The finish preserves cedar’s light tan appearance.
Charcoal Stained Pine
Charcoal gray stain gives inexpensive pine cabinets an elegant, sophisticated look. Use semi-gloss polyurethane for sheen.
With limitless color and finish possibilities, you can create an outdoor kitchen that matches your personal taste and style preferences. Carefully weigh the factors in this guide to select finishes tailored for your climate, cabinet materials, and design vision. Investing in the proper application and maintenance will help your new outdoor cabinetry withstand seasons of cooking and entertaining.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Kitchen Cabinet Finishes (FAQs)
Many homeowners have additional questions when researching the ideal finishes for their unique outdoor kitchen cabinetry. Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries.
What is the most waterproof finish for outdoor cabinets?
Marine-grade varnish and spar urethane provide the most water resistance. The heavy-duty formulas are designed to withstand moisture on boats and are ideal for humid environments.
Do you need to seal outdoor painted cabinets?
Yes, paint alone is not enough protection for outdoor use. You must apply an exterior-grade clear topcoat like polyurethane or varnish over paint. Enamel paints that cure to a hard finish help boost durability.
What finish lasts the longest outside?
Oil-based polyurethane, when applied properly in multiple coats, generally lasts the longest of any clear finish outdoors. It provides excellent protection from moisture, UV rays, and surface wear for 5-7 years before needing renewal coats.
Should you use spar urethane on outdoor cabinets?
Spar urethane is an excellent choice for outdoor wood cabinets in hot, humid climates or coastal regions. Its marine-grade formula stands up well to sun, rain, salt air, and humidity. It provides long-lasting protection between maintenance coats.
Can you use Gel Stain on outdoor cabinets?
Yes, gel stains are a good option for outdoor wood finishes. The thick formula penetrates surfaces less, making it ideal for limiting blotchiness on soft or porous woods like pine, oak, and cedar. It can be used alone or sealed for extra protection.
What sheen is best for outdoor cabinets?
Satin and semi-gloss sheens are ideal all-purpose finishes for outdoor cabinets. Satin resists moisture, stains, and fingerprints. Semi-gloss adds vibrancy and makes wiping away messes simple. Avoid flat sheens outside as they show dirt and require frequent cleaning.
How often should you apply finish to outdoor cabinets?
Every 1 to 2 years on average. It varies based on climate conditions and usage levels. Inspect finishes yearly and reapply when breakdown becomes visible. Catching wear early prevents moisture damage to the wood beneath.
What mistakes ruin a finish on outdoor cabinets?
Skipping proper surface prep, inadequate drying times between coats, applying in direct sun or onto damp surfaces, and using interior-grade products will all negatively impact performance. Not maintaining the finish leads to early breakdown. Harsh cleaners also degrade sealers over time.
Conclusion
The ideal outdoor kitchen cabinet finish protects your investment while complementing your design style. Consider all facets from wood type and climate to anticipated use and maintenance preferences when selecting finishes. Oil-based polyurethane, marine varnish, spar urethane, quality paints, and penetrating oils each offer outdoor durability when properly applied and maintained. Renewing finishes regularly and cleaning cabinets gently will help retain their like-new appearance for years of alfresco cooking enjoyment.