During the Valentine’s season, our thoughts often turn to ways we can show love to those around us. But what about our homes? Don’t they deserve some TLC too? 

We think so!

And what better way to care for the heart of your home than by keeping up with maintenance on your painted cabinets? These surfaces work hard for us, facing the brunt of daily wear and tear while never complaining. Over time, however, they can start to show their age. So let’s give these hard-working surfaces a little love, ensuring their beauty and durability can stand up against life’s hard knocks. 

Why Maintain Painted Cabinets?

Painted cabinets are more than just a design choice; they’re an investment in your home’s aesthetic and value. Well-maintained cabinets can transform a kitchen, making it feel cleaner, brighter, and more inviting. On top of that (and  beyond mere aesthetics) regular maintenance can extend the lifespan of your cabinets too, saving you from costly replacements or extensive repairs down the line.

Cabinet Cleaning: A Step-by-Step Guide

Cleaning sounds easy enough, right? It is! But there are definitely a few tips that can make the job more effective. 

1. Empty the Cabinets: Begin by removing all items from your cabinets. This gives you the chance to declutter, organize, and inspect the interior of the cabinets for any signs of wear or damage.

2. Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water in a bucket. For greasy buildup, you can add a half cup of vinegar to the solution for its degreasing properties.

3. Wipe Down Interior/Exterior Surfaces: Dip a microfiber cloth or soft sponge into the cleaning solution, wring it out well so it’s damp but not dripping, and wipe the exterior/interior surfaces of the cabinets. Use a toothbrush or small brush to get into corners and crevices if necessary.

4. Have Tough Stains? Make a paste with baking soda and water and apply it to the stain. Let it sit for a few minutes before scrubbing gently with a soft brush or cloth, then rinse with a damp cloth.

5. Rinse and Dry: After cleaning, rinse the surfaces with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue. Then, dry the surfaces thoroughly with a clean, dry cloth to prevent moisture damage.

6. Clean Hardware: Remove knobs, handles, and pulls to clean separately if they are very dirty. You can clean these with the same soap and water solution or use a metal cleaner for the appropriate type of metal. Rinse and dry thoroughly before reattaching.

Cabinet Painting Touch Ups

Do your cabinets have minor chips or scratches? Nothing a little touch-up can’t handle. Lightly sand the spot to create a smooth surface for better paint adhesion. Be sure to match the paint used on the cabinets as closely as possible. Using a small brush or sponge applicator, apply the paint in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry thoroughly before applying the next. 

If you’re an A.G. Williams Painting customer and need touch-ups, please call us. We can make short work of the process and guarantee a fantastic finish.

Cabinet Repainting: Knowing When To Start Fresh

If touch-ups are no longer enough, or if you’re just plain tired of your cabinet’s paint job, it might be time to repaint your cabinets altogether. Take a look at this overview for helpful information as you decide whether to repaint or replace completely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How often should I clean my painted cabinets? Aim for a gentle cleaning once a week to prevent buildup of grease and dust.

Q: Can I use regular household cleaners on painted cabinets? It’s best to avoid harsh chemicals. Stick to mild dish soap and water for cleaning.

Q: What should I do if the paint on my cabinets is peeling? Peeling paint usually requires removal of the loose paint, sanding, priming, and repainting the affected area.

Q: How can I prevent my painted cabinets from fading? Limit direct sunlight exposure with blinds or curtains and use paints with UV protection.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a professional for repainting, or can I do it myself? While DIY is possible with the right tools and preparation, hiring a professional can ensure a durable and high-quality finish, especially for extensive projects.

Have you ever stepped into a well-painted kitchen or bathroom and thought to yourself “Wow. This place looks amazing!”? Well, you can be sure that the cabinets played a significant role. Cabinets are a focal point and set the tone for the whole space, so understanding how to make the best of them is key. 

What is there to understand, you might ask? Good question! Let’s start with this year’s popular color trends.

2024 Paint Colors for Kitchen and Bathroom Cabinets 

The first thing to keep in mind when considering how to transform your kitchen/bathroom cabinets is what colors are trending in the world of cabinet paint, especially as the new year brings a fresh color palette onto the scene.

Earthy Tones: A Touch of the Outdoors

Earthy tones are making a big comeback this year. Think warm terracotta, soothing clay, and rich sienna – these colors bring a sense of calm and connection to the outdoors (a much needed advantage!). Plus, They work exceptionally well in spaces with natural light, complementing wood finishes and plants especially. 

Bold Blues: For Making Your Cabinets Stand Out

From deep navy to bright cerulean, blue cabinets are becoming a popular choice for those who want to add a pop of color without overwhelming the space. These shades pair beautifully with metallic accents and white countertops, offering a tasteful and sophisticated look.

Soft Greens: Serenity and Balance

Need something on the calmer side? No problem. Soft greens, like sage and mint, are perfect for creating a tranquil and refreshing space. These colors are especially popular in bathrooms and kitchens, where serenity is often the goal.

Classic Neutrals: Timeless and  Elegant 

While bold colors are in vogue, the appeal of neutral tones remains timeless. Shades like beige, light gray, and off-white offer versatility and can easily adapt to changing decor styles. They are ideal for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic and a simple atmosphere. 

Understanding the Perfect Cabinet Paint Finish 

Along with color, the finish of your cabinets plays a crucial role in overall look and functionality. Ultimately you decide what works best for your space, but keep a few things in mind.

Incorporating These Color Trends into Your Home

Incorporating the latest paint color trends into your cabinets is not just about following what’s in vogue; it’s about blending these trends with your personal style. 

1. Start by assessing the mood you wish to create. Do you want your kitchen/bathroom to feel energetic and vibrant, or calm and serene? Whatever it is, color is the most effective way to achieve it!
2. Consider the size and lighting of your room. Light colors can make small or dimly-lit spaces feel larger and brighter, while darker hues create a sense of sophistication in larger rooms. 

Now that you’re up-to-date with this years’ favorite cabinet colors, it’s time to add “kitchen transformation” to your new year’s resolution list!

Have More Cabinet Painting Questions? We’re Here to Help

Wouldn’t it be nice if you could do all the imagining and decision making for your next cabinet paint job but not have to worry about costly mistakes or time commitment? Well, A.G. Williams Painting Company doesn’t just make your color preference a reality –  we ensure the process from start to finish is done with professionalism, quality work, and timely service. Contact us today for more info! 

Cabinet Painting FAQs

Q: Can I mix and match colors in my cabinetry? A: Absolutely! Mixing colors can add depth and interest to your space. For instance, you could use a bold color on your lower cabinets and a neutral tone on the upper ones.

Q: How often should I repaint my cabinets? A: This depends on usage and wear. Generally, cabinets can be repainted every 5-10 years to maintain their appearance or to update the color.

Q: Is it necessary to hire a professional painter? A: While DIY is an option, professional painters ensure a high-quality finish, proper surface preparation, and can provide expert color advice.

As the vibrant colors and brisk air of autumn bring a fresh, new beauty to your community, it is only natural to want the same for your home. And what better way is there to celebrate that cozy fall feel than by freshening things up with a new coat of exterior paint? The only question is: “Should you paint in the fall or wait till another season?” 

Here are a few reasons why fall may not only be an acceptable season for exterior painting, but even a preferable one. We’ll also run through a few potential challenges to consider. 

Advantages of Painting in the Fall

• Consistent Temperatures: Exterior paint needs just the right temperature range in order to dry properly. If it’s too cold, the paint won’t dry. If it’s too hot, it will dry too quickly, resulting in a cracked finish that will likely chip away over time. That nice, moderate fall temperature does more than just feel good, it makes for perfect exterior paint conditions.  
• Less Insects:  When painting an exterior surface as big as a house, bugs crawling or flying into drying paint can present a real problem. Thankfully fall sees a dramatic decrease in these pesky paint-destroyers.  
• Low Humidity: Humidity can affect the drying time of paint and its ability to set properly. During fall, the humidity levels are usually moderate, which is ideal for paint to adhere and dry effectively.
• Increased protection: If you live in an area with a harsh winter, you have the extra incentive to ensure that your home is well prepped in the fall. Heading into the long winter months with a fresh coat of paint will do wonders towards preserving the materials beneath when exposed to ice, snow or sleet.

Challenges to Painting in the Fall

While there are many advantages to painting in the fall, it’s essential to be aware of some challenges that the season may present, too. Just keep in mind that as long as you take these things into account and plan ahead, you can dramatically decrease any risk of your paint job being adversely affected.

• Shorter Days: With the sun setting earlier, there’s less daylight to work with. It’s essential to plan ahead and start early in order to utilize natural light effectively and avoid needing to work into the night. Aside from keeping you or someone else from going to bed, the dramatic temperature drop could prevent your exterior paint from drying.
• More Debris: Both the dry air and the falling leaves makes for an increased risk of unwanted debris landing on wet exterior paint. Depending on where you live this might be inevitable, but staying close by while your paint is drying and carefully picking off any leaves/debris is a good way to prevent a permanent blemish. 

FAQs about Outdoor Painting in the Fall

Every homeowner keen on leveraging the beauty of fall for a fresh coat of paint will have questions. To make your painting endeavor more informed, here are some answers to frequently asked questions:

Q: How do I know if it’s too cold to paint outside?
A: Always check the paint can label. Most outdoor paints will specify a minimum temperature (often around 50°F or 10°C). It’s crucial to ensure that temperatures remain above this minimum for at least a few hours after painting.

Q: Can I paint if it’s forecasted to rain?
A: It’s advisable to avoid painting if rain is expected within 24 hours. Moisture can affect the paint’s adherence and drying process.

Q: Should I use a different kind of paint in the fall?
A: Not necessarily, but always choose high-quality exterior paints. They often have additives that make them more resilient to varying temperatures.

Q: How early in the morning can I start painting?
A: Wait until the dew has lifted and the surface is dry. Typically, late morning is a safe bet, but this can vary based on local conditions.

Q: What’s the latest in the day I should paint?
A: Aim to stop painting early enough that the paint can dry for several hours before temperatures drop in the evening.

Your best bet is to put your exterior painting project in the hands of a skilled, experienced painting company. We know how to navigate the weather and varying conditions, pairing just the right product with your needs to ensure a successful outcome. If you live here in New York or Connecticut, contact us at A.G. Williams Painting Company. We’d love to serve you and your home.

How exterior house paint works. 

When considering the importance of any product, it can help to know how it works. Most paints contain four main ingredients: liquids, binders, additives, and pigments. The liquids act primarily as the base for the other ingredients and evaporate completely after the paint is applied and cured. Most important to the overall quality of your exterior house paint however are the binders, pigments, and additives (also known as “solids”) which are left behind. Let’s take a closer look:

Pigments: When it comes to paint, color is no small feature. Every can of exterior paint contains both “prime” and “extender” pigments. Prime pigments, which are more costly, contribute mostly to the color and hide of the paint whereas extender pigments are used to add bulk to the product at a low cost. 

Binders: Binders act as the “glue” which hold everything together after the paint has dried. This is especially important in exterior paint, since paint that is exposed to the weather has a much higher risk of cracking, peeling, or chipping. The quality and the quantity of the binder will affect the onset of these unwanted blemishes.

Additives: Additives can be used to give extra benefits to exterior paint that it doesn’t get from the other ingredients. For example, in better quality paint, preservatives and mildewcides are often added to keep the paint from spoiling and to reduce mold growth. 

All three of these main ingredients work together to influence the outcome of your exterior paint’s performance.

What are the advantages of quality paint?

A key feature to the success of any exterior painting project is turning the color you envision into a reality that lasts for more than one season. How does good quality paint make that happen? 

1. Better coverage: The ratio of solids to liquids can play a significant role in the ability that paint has to cover surfaces. Higher quality paint has a higher percentage of solids and results in a thicker and more durable coating. Paint with a lower percentage of solids on the other hand may be much cheaper for the same amount but the thinner application will require more coats to finish the job.

2. Color retention: Exterior paints that contain higher quality prime pigments such as titanium dioxide will retain their color better than paints which rely more on low-cost extender pigments. 

3. Protection: While aesthetics are certainly a major part of any house painting job, they’re not everything. Quality exterior paint that is tailor-made to protect against the outside elements will provide a better barrier against moisture and mold.  

4. Durability: Higher quality exterior paints use binders such as 100% acrylic to give the paint greater elasticity. This allows it to expand and contract as the temperature changes. With a better bond to your house and stronger resistance against the elements, your exterior paint can last well over twice as long as lower quality paint. 

Does buying cheap exterior paint really save money? 

When it comes to protecting and enjoying your house, sometimes a little extra expense is worth it, but in the end is it actually cheaper to buy lower quality paint?  Here are three things to consider:

1. Cheaper paint will likely need to be applied with more coats to cover the surface which means you need to buy more of it. 

2. If you are painting a whole house with a less expensive paint that will last around 5 years compared to a nicer paint that could last 10-15 years, you could actually be paying more per year than you would be with the better product. 

3. Finally, quality exterior paint can keep parts of  your house from rotting or getting damaged, which may result in lower maintenance costs. 

Have more house painting questions? Contact us!

Finding a quality exterior paint isn’t difficult when you have a quality painter. A.G. Williams Painting company has been serving folks in Westchester County, Fairfield County, Rockland County, and Putnam County since 1906. If you need help with your next exterior painting project contact us today!

So how do you know you can get a beautiful paint job while protecting your belongings from paint drips on the floor or paint dust from a sprayer on surrounding surfaces? Find a skilled painter that can minimize risk and mess. To get you started in the right direction, we have a few key tips for you to keep in mind.

How do you protect your home during an interior painting project?

1. Ask for references

Would you allow someone to babysit your child without references? Do you eat at a restaurant before you read the reviews? If not, you can take the same type of care when choosing people that will be working in your home. A reputable painter should be able to provide you with references from past clients who can speak to their level of professionalism and attention to detail. 

2. Request a written proposal

A written proposal should outline the work to be done, as well as any precautions the painter will take to protect your belongings. Be sure to review the proposal carefully and ask any questions you may have before hiring the painter before you sign.

3. Discuss the use of drop cloths and plastic sheeting

An excellent painter will use plastic sheeting, drop cloths, and painter’s tape to protect your floors and furniture from paint splatter. Ask the painter how they use these materials and how they will ensure that they stay in place throughout the job.

4. Ask yourself what value you put on your peace of mind

Everyone wants a bargain, but  a more expensive painter may offer a higher level of professionalism and attention to detail. It may be worth it to pay a little more to ensure that your precious belongings are protected and the job is done well. Some of your things can never be replaced if they are damaged.

At AG Williams, we take pride in our ability to provide a beautiful paint job while protecting your property. Contact us today, and we will walk you through our process step by step.  We want you to have a worry-free experience.

Do you know about prime pigments?

According to Sherwin-Williams, “higher-quality paints have more of the all-important prime pigments, which provide easier application, greater durability and better color retention.” Color pigments are the main source of hiding capability so if you want your walls to look like you don’t have kids, you need opaque quality.

What about binders?

“Higher-quality binders adhere to surfaces better and provide enhanced film integrity and longer-lasting performance.” Want to avoid cracking, blistering and peeling? Invest in high-quality paint.  Whether oil-based or latex, each paint color has specialized binders that ensure quality and durability. Benjamin Moore has eight developmental laboratories in their 80,000 square foot research facility where they focus on enhancing high-performance coatings. If you want quality, look to those who care.

Additives?

When it comes to what you put on your table, you don’t want additives. But quality paint needs them.  Additives have specific benefits that all paints should have but not all paints do. Common additives in higher-end paints include rheology modifiers to provide better hide and mildewcides to keep mildew from ruining a room smell to site.  You don’t want anything growing on your walls except beautiful color.

Make sure your contractors and painters use the best quality when they are painting your walls.  If you have further questions about what is in high-quality paints that make your paint last, contact us today.  We can schedule an estimate, too!

What’s new from Sherwin-Williams?

The Sherwin-Williams Color of the Year is Redend Point, a twist on beige that will make your heart go pitter-pat. “It’s if beige could blush,” says Sue Wadden, the color marketing director at Sherwin-Williams. “It’s a pink-undertone neutral that is warm and earthy, and it has a certain softness and soothing quality to it that is really unique.” Try this color in your living room. Like a tender suede shoe, this color will add a soft spice in the room you like to lounge in–and you’ll look good doing it!

Craving something bolder? 

You might want to try: 

• Blue Peacock, a deep sultry teal that looks fantastic anywhere from kitchen island cabinets to a bold splash in the bathroom.
• Peppery, a twist on a spice with a kick, this color would look amazing as an accent wall in a family room.

Benjamin Moore makes a wild statement!

Benjamin Moore’s take on blush will ring a bell in any room. “Never a backdrop, Raspberry Blush is the definition of charismatic color,” says Andrea Magno, the paint company’s director of color marketing and development. “This unapologetic shade of red-orange had us thinking: bold, bolder, boldest.” This color is reminiscent of a fabulous new pair of heels or a bling of a new lipstick.  Take your style out for a spin!

Prefer a slow stroll in nature this year?

If you’re leaning a bit to the soft side, Benjamin Moore has something for everyone.  Check out: 

• Savannah Green, is a rich golden ochre that Benjamin Moore says brings “whimsy and drama.” Try it in a powder room or on an accent wall in the bedroom.
• New Age is a “light purple with a drop of gray” that will sooth you to sleep in a bedroom or add subtle calm in a meditation room.

For more inspiration check out these articles:

5 Popular Kitchen Cabinet Trends

How To Choose Interior Paint Colors

For more info or a consultation contact us today.  We would love to hear from you.

Ready for a little inspiration?

Blue

Blue is the favorite color of many of us–just ask a sociologist. The new kitchen blues are either light and airy like Windy Sky by Benjamin Moore or bold like Gale Force by Sherwin-Williams. Both are unique, stylish choices and will bring a fresh new look to your kitchen.

Yellow

Believe it or not, earthy yellows are making an entrance. If you have always loved yellow but have been afraid it will be too bright or look too much like cream or ivory, try one of these organic yellow shades. You can check out Honey Bees by Sherwin-Williams or Ochre by Benjamin Moore. This is also a great color to try on your kitchen island to bring a pop of color to your neutral color palette.

Gray (and darker!)

We’ve been seeing pale gray cabinets in kitchens for a while, but these sultry, dark grays offer a new twist. Try Chelsea Gray by Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams’ Peppercorn. There’s another trend that just might knock your socks off! You could go with an interesting, complex black. Benjamin Moore has excellent examples in Black Satin or Black Beauty. Be adventurous and paint all your cabinets black or use it as an accent color on your kitchen island or bathroom vanity.

Green

Green is one of the most fashionable interior paint colors these days. The shades range from soft and sagey like Evergreen Fog by Sherwin-Williams or October Mist by Benjamin Moore to a richer, forest tone like  Dard Hunter Green by Sherwin-Williams or  Laffayette Green by Benjamin Moore. These greens will have a calming, earthy effect on your kitchen and draw you in, not only to cook, but to spend time in your kitchen.

Whether you are looking for a little jingle or a big bang, there are some amazing paint colors to choose from to add some spice to your kitchen cabinets.  For more information or a quote, please contact us today.

Sometimes choosing paint colors can cause a lot of anxiety, and so your walls stand covered in colors from a style you no longer love. Walls can also sustain damage over time and may be marked with handprints from greasy popcorn or scratches from the dog’s claws. Here are some ways you can clean up your walls with as little stress as possible.

How do you want to feel in your home?

Designers know that colors can affect your mood. The feelings change for each person so it’s important to know yourself and know the mood you want to be in when you are in your favorite, most-used rooms in your home. Blue is a popular bathroom color because it can be calming or invigorating. Check out Sherwin-Williams Silvermist for a gentle waterfall feel or Blue Peacock to get yourself up and going in the morning. Maybe you will feel elegant in the living room by trying soothing Redend Point, a blushing shade of beige by Sherwin-Williams or a trendier pop of color like Raspberry Blush by Benjamin Moore. Just think, “How do I want to feel in this room?” and you will be off to a great start!

What do you love the most?

Sometimes all it takes is an inspiration piece to get you going. Do you have a favorite green t-shirt or a cute pair of pink sneakers? What about a white seashell from a trip to the sea or soft brown stone from a walk in the woods? Take these pieces to your paint supplier and compare them to paint chips. Order a few paint samples and try the green in your bedroom or the pink in your powder room. Before you know it, you are surrounded by your favorite things!

The space

Do you want a smaller room to feel bigger? A northern facing room to feel brighter? Lighter colors always lighten, but did you know that darker colors can also make a room feel bigger? Brighter can also mean bolder. This season there are some pinks, greens, and even purples that will knock your socks off! If you want to take it easy though, a clean, crip white will make your space feel inviting.

Don’t be afraid to step out on your own and use your imagination.  You never know what direction you will go in, but you will ease yourself into a change, big or small, in your home.  For more help with colors, more information, or an estimate, contact us today.  We are looking forward to hearing from you.

4 powder room paint color trends

Black

You’ve heard of the little black dress, right?  No wardrobe is complete without one. It’s possible your home isn’t complete without a little, black powder room. Did you know painting a small room a dark color can actually make it look larger? Black can be used for an elegant, dramatic look or for a more casual modern farmhouse vibe. Try Tricorn Black by Sherwin Williams, Limousine Leather by Behr, or Noir by Valspar.

Green

While sea-water tones of green may be a safe choice, the newest trends in green are deeper and darker, like a shady, mossy forest. Try Rainforest by Behr, Rock Garden by Valspar, or

Dreamy Teal Valspar.

Pink

Who knew finding your new, bolder powder room paint color would be like finding the perfect shade of lipstick? This isn’t your mother’s baby pink.  These pinks will make it feel like a little party in your powder room every time you use it! Try Peony Benjamin Moore, Radicchio Farrow and Ball, or for a more romantic choice, try this velvety Deep Mauve by Benjamin Moore.

Blue

We all love those sweet watery blues–maybe for a bedroom or a livingroom. But for the biggest bang in your smallest room, try a darker, bolder, or brighter shade. We like Marine Blue by Benjamin Moore, Frank Blue by Sherman Williams, or for a twist on navy, Salty Dog by Sherman WIlliams.

We are excited to work with you to liven up one of the most used spaces in your home.  To get started on your powder room, contact us for an estimate.  Have questions?  We are waiting to hear from you.