If you’re like me, choosing the right paint for cabinets can feel overwhelming, especially with so many options available. After weeks of research, I finally settled on BEHR Premium Cabinet, Door & Trim Semi-Gloss Enamel to revamp my kitchen cabinets.
And trust me, it was a game-changer. In this article, I’ll share my experience, including the pros, cons, maintenance tips, and how BEHR compares to other leading cabinet paints. Whether you’re tackling a DIY project or hiring a professional, this paint deserves your consideration.
My Personal Experience With BEHR Cabinet Paint
When I first looked into refreshing my cabinets, the idea of using a paint meant for doors, trims, and cabinets seemed like a logical choice.
What I didn’t expect was how BEHR Premium Cabinet, Door & Trim would exceed my expectations, especially as a DIYer.
I had my doubts about achieving a smooth, professional-looking finish, but this paint proved me wrong in the best possible way.
After prepping my old cabinets with a liquid de-glosser, I used a combination of brushes and rollers to apply the paint. The coverage was fantastic, even on the first coat. Using the color White from BEHR’s Designer Collection, I was amazed at how much it brightened my kitchen space.
The semi-gloss finish made the cabinets look sleek, reflecting light beautifully without being too shiny. It dried evenly, making it impossible to tell which areas were brushed or rolled. This was a huge relief, as I’m no expert with a paintbrush!
In terms of application, the paint was surprisingly easy to work with. It dried quickly, which allowed me to recoat within two hours. This fast dry time was especially helpful because I could complete the project in one day. Plus, it dried to a hard, durable finish that feels like it will last for years.
Pros of BEHR Cabinet Paint
From my experience and others’ feedback, there’s a lot to love about this paint.
- Smooth Finish: The flow and leveling properties of BEHR cabinet paint are excellent. I used a roller and brush interchangeably, and there was no sign of streaks or uneven patches.
- Fast Drying Time: I loved that I could apply a second coat after just two hours. This made the whole project faster, which is a big deal for any DIY project.
- Durability: After a few months, my cabinets still look as fresh as they did on day one. They’re holding up well against the usual kitchen wear and tear like grease, water splashes, and cleaning. The semi-gloss finish is easy to wipe clean without leaving streaks.
- Versatile Usage: This paint isn’t just for cabinets; it works great on doors, trim, and even exterior projects. That kind of versatility is a bonus if you have multiple home improvement tasks lined up.
- Great Coverage: I was able to cover my cabinets in just two coats. Depending on your cabinets’ material and color, you might need more coats, but the coverage was solid for me.
Cons of BEHR Cabinet Paint
While I am extremely happy with this paint, there are a few things to consider.
- Thicker Consistency: Some DIYers might find the paint a bit thick. For me, the thicker consistency actually made it easier to control, but if you’re using a sprayer, make sure to adjust your technique accordingly.
- Primer is a Must: If you’re painting cabinets that have never been painted or are very glossy, you’ll need to use a good primer. BEHR recommends their Kitchen, Bath & Trim Interior Stain-Blocking Primer & Sealer. Skipping this step could affect the final look and durability of your project.
- Darker Colors Take Longer to Dry: I noticed some reviews mentioned that darker shades take longer to dry and might need an extra coat for full coverage. My white cabinets dried quickly, but it’s something to keep in mind if you’re considering deeper hues.
Maintenance Tips for Long-lasting Results
Painting cabinets is a big investment in time and effort, so you want your results to last. Here are a few tips to keep your cabinets looking fresh:
- Use a Primer: Even though the paint dries to a hard, durable finish, starting with a primer ensures better adhesion and helps prevent chipping or peeling over time.
- Sand Between Coats: Lightly sanding between coats will give you a smoother finish. It’s a small extra step, but it makes a big difference in the final result.
- Clean Regularly: The semi-gloss finish resists dirt and grime, but it’s still a good idea to wipe your cabinets down with a damp cloth regularly to prevent buildup. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers.
- Recoat Every Few Years: Depending on wear and tear, you might need to touch up or recoat your cabinets every few years to keep them looking fresh.
BEHR Cabinet Paint Vs. Other Brands
- BEHR Vs. INSL-X Cabinet Coat
When I was researching cabinet paints, INSL-X Cabinet Coat kept coming up as a popular choice among DIYers and professionals.
It’s a urethane acrylic paint, which gives it excellent adhesion and durability, particularly for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
That said, when comparing it with BEHR Premium Cabinet, Door & Trim, I noticed that BEHR was more user-friendly.
BEHR’s application process felt smoother, especially for a non-professional like me. INSL-X is great for someone with more experience or if you’re using a sprayer, but BEHR is a better option if you’re applying the paint with brushes or rollers.
Additionally, INSL-X has a longer drying time, which means more waiting between coats. While this might not be an issue for professionals, I found BEHR’s two-hour recoat time to be a big advantage.
BEHR also offers a semi-gloss finish, which is easier to clean and reflects more light, giving your cabinets a polished look. INSL-X is more specialized and slightly more expensive, but BEHR balances ease of use, price, and performance.
- BEHR Vs. Valspar Cabinet Enamel
Valspar Cabinet Enamel is another strong contender when it comes to cabinet paints. One of Valspar’s standout features is its self-leveling properties, which help prevent brush marks and streaks.
In my experience, BEHR’s leveling was just as good, if not better, particularly with a roller. Both paints provide a durable, hard finish, but I found BEHR to be a bit more forgiving, especially when using a brush for edges and corners.
Valspar has a longer curing time compared to BEHR, which might be a downside if you want to finish your project quickly. It can take up to 30 days for Valspar’s paint to fully cure, while BEHR feels solid and durable after just a couple of days.
If time is a factor, BEHR is the better option. Price-wise, both paints are in the same range, but Valspar might edge out slightly if you’re looking for a more matte finish, whereas BEHR’s semi-gloss provides a sleek, reflective surface.
- BEHR Vs. Benjamin Moore Advance
Benjamin Moore’s Advance is often considered the gold standard for cabinet paints.
It’s a waterborne alkyd paint, which means it offers the durability of oil-based paints with the easy cleanup of water-based ones.
However, while Advance produces a beautiful, professional-looking finish, it requires a lot more patience.
The dry and recoat times are significantly longer than BEHR’s, sometimes requiring up to 16 hours between coats.
In terms of application, Benjamin Moore Advance performs best when sprayed, while BEHR’s paint worked flawlessly with brushes and rollers. If you’re looking for the best of the best and don’t mind a longer, more involved process, Benjamin Moore might be worth the investment.
However, for a quicker and more user-friendly option, BEHR is the way to go, especially if you’re handling the project yourself without professional tools.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, BEHR cabinet paint is excellent for cabinets. It provides a smooth, durable finish that resists dirt, grime, and household chemicals, making it perfect for high-use areas like kitchens.
Both paints are good, but in my experience, BEHR is easier to apply and has a faster drying time. If you’re a beginner or want a quicker project, BEHR might be the better choice, while Valspar is ideal for more experienced users or those who prefer using a sprayer.
No, BEHR cabinet paint does not require an additional sealer. It dries to a hard, semi-gloss finish that is durable and resists household wear and tear. However, if you want an extra layer of protection, you can apply a topcoat.
While many high-quality paints are available, BEHR Premium Cabinet, Door & Trim Semi-Gloss Enamel is one of the top contenders due to its durability, ease of use, and quick drying time. Other great options include Sherwin-Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel and Benjamin Moore Advance.
Conclusion: Should You Choose BEHR Cabinet Paint?
If you’re considering a DIY cabinet makeover, BEHR Premium Cabinet, Door & Trim Semi-Gloss Enamel is a fantastic option. The paint is easy to work with, dries quickly, and leaves a smooth, durable finish that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
Its versatility means you can use it for multiple home improvement projects beyond cabinets. The best place to buy it is Home Depot, where you can find a wide selection of colors and helpful customer support.
For me, BEHR exceeded expectations. My cabinets not only look great but have held up well against the test of time. Whether you’re a DIY novice or a seasoned pro, BEHR is worth a try.