Best Paint for Trim, Doors and Cabinets

The Best Paint for Cabinets, Trim, and Doors: What You Need to Know

At ReliaPaint, we understand that painting your home can be a big project, and choosing the right paint for different surfaces is key to achieving the best results. A common mistake we see is homeowners buying one type of paint for all their surfaces, not realizing that cabinet paint, trim paint, and wall paint are not the same. Let’s break down the differences and explain why it matters, so your home gets the long-lasting, professional finish it deserves!

What’s the Difference Between Cabinet Paint and Wall Paint?

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that not all paints are created equal. When it comes to surfaces like kitchen cabinets, trim, and doors, you need a more durable, specialized product than the paint you’d use for your walls. Here’s why:

• Wall Paint is formulated to cover large areas with a smooth finish, and it’s designed for minimal wear and tear.

• Cabinet, Trim, and Door Paint need to stand up to constant use, scuffing, and frequent cleaning, which requires a stronger, more durable formula.

The Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets, Trim, and Doors

For high-traffic areas like kitchen cabinets, doors, and trim, enamel paint is your best option. Enamel dries to a smooth, hard finish, making it resistant to damage and easy to clean – exactly what you need for these surfaces.

At ReliaPaint, we recommend Sherwin-Williams Emerald® Urethane Trim Enamel. It’s our go-to choice for trim and cabinets because it’s:

• Highly durable, standing up to daily wear and tear.

• Resistant to yellowing and fading over time, ensuring your paint job looks fresh for longer.

• Easy to apply, with no brush or roller marks left behind.

Why You Should Avoid Shortcuts with Cabinet Paint

While it might be tempting to cut costs by mixing a little semi-gloss into your wall paint for cabinets or trim, this is a mistake you’ll regret. Using wall paint or a cheap shortcut mix won’t give you the durable finish you need. Enamel paint is formulated for a reason, and here’s why it’s worth the extra investment:

1. Less Paint, Better Results: You’ll need fewer gallons of enamel for cabinets and trim than you do for walls, making it more cost-effective in the long run.

2. Durability: Enamel paint is tough, long-lasting, and easier to clean, which makes it far superior to other alternatives.

The Most Important Rule: Never Paint Over Oil-Based Paint with Water-Based Paint

If you’re working with older cabinets, trim, or doors that have been painted with oil-based paint, there’s a key rule to follow: never apply water-based paint directly over oil-based paint without proper prep. Water-based paints will not adhere properly to oil-based paints, leading to peeling, cracking, or a messy finish.

This is a common mistake many DIYers make, and it can create major headaches. Avoid this disaster by ensuring the right primer and preparation steps are followed before applying your new paint.

Ready to Give Your Cabinets, Trim, and Doors a Fresh Look?

If you're ready to update your kitchen cabinets, trim, or doors with a professional paint job that lasts, ReliaPaint is here to help. Our team uses only the best materials and techniques to ensure a smooth, durable, and beautiful finish for your home.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your consultation in Tallahassee, FL, and let us help you choose the right paint for your next project!

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