Spray vs Brush Cabinet Painting: Which Method is Right for Your Kitchen?

Spray Painting Method

Professional cabinet refinishers overwhelmingly choose spray application for good reason—it delivers superior results in less time.

How Cabinet Spraying Works

**Equipment Used** - HVLP (High Volume Low Pressure) spray systems - Airless sprayers for larger projects - Spray booths or containment systems - Professional-grade spray guns

**The Process** 1. Doors removed and numbered 2. All surfaces thoroughly prepared 3. Primer sprayed in thin, even coats 4. Light sanding between coats 5. Multiple finish coats applied 6. Controlled drying environment

Advantages of Spray Painting

| Advantage | Why It Matters | |-----------|----------------| | Smooth finish | No brush marks or roller texture | | Even coverage | Consistent color and sheen | | Speed | Faster application time | | Professional look | Factory-quality results | | Gets into details | Reaches routed edges and corners |

Disadvantages of Spray Painting

- **Equipment cost**: Professional spray systems cost $500-$3,000+ - **Setup time**: Requires masking and containment - **Overspray**: Needs controlled environment - **Learning curve**: Technique takes practice - **Weather dependent**: Temperature and humidity matter

Brush and Roll Method

While spray painting dominates professional work, brush and roll techniques still have their place.

When Brush Painting Makes Sense

**Small Touch-Ups** For minor repairs or touching up a few cabinets, setting up spray equipment isn't practical.

**DIY Projects** Homeowners often choose brush/roll for cost savings, though results vary.

**Limited Ventilation** Some spaces can't accommodate spray application.

Brush and Roll Technique

**Best Practices** 1. Use high-quality mini foam rollers (4-inch) 2. Apply thin coats (key to avoiding drips) 3. "Tip off" with a quality brush 4. Sand lightly between coats 5. Allow proper dry time

**Recommended Tools** - Wooster mini foam rollers - Purdy or Wooster angled brushes (2-2.5") - Paint tray with liner - 220-grit sandpaper - Tack cloth

Best Paints for Brush/Roll Application

Self-leveling paints minimize brush marks: - **Benjamin Moore Advance**: Industry favorite, levels beautifully - **Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane**: Excellent leveling - **Cabinet Coat**: Formulated for brush/roll

Side-by-Side Comparison

| Factor | Spray | Brush/Roll | |--------|-------|------------| | Finish quality | Excellent (10/10) | Good (7/10) | | Speed | Fast | Slow | | Equipment cost | High | Low | | Skill required | High | Moderate | | DIY friendly | No | Yes | | Professional standard | Yes | Sometimes | | Coverage of details | Excellent | Good | | Touch-up ease | Harder | Easier |

Cost Comparison

**DIY Brush/Roll** - Paint: $150-$300 - Supplies: $50-$100 - Total: $200-$400

**DIY Spray (with equipment purchase)** - Paint: $150-$300 - Spray system: $300-$800 - Supplies: $100-$200 - Total: $550-$1,300

**Professional Spray** - Average kitchen: $3,500-$7,000 - Includes all materials and labor - Guaranteed results

Our Recommendation

For Homeowners

If you're doing the work yourself, brush and roll with quality paint like Benjamin Moore Advance can achieve good results. Key factors: - Take your time - Apply thin coats - Sand between coats - Accept some texture vs spray

For Best Results

Hire a professional who sprays cabinets. The difference in finish quality is significant and worth the investment for most homeowners. Your kitchen is a major focal point—professional spraying delivers the factory-smooth finish that transforms a space.

At CabinetPro

We exclusively use HVLP spray application for all cabinet refinishing projects. Our controlled spray environment and professional-grade equipment ensure every cabinet receives a flawless, durable finish that will last for years.