High Gloss Kitchen Cabinets Pros and Cons
When it comes to kitchen cabinets, there are many different options to choose from. One option that has become increasingly popular in recent years is high gloss kitchen cabinets. These cabinets have a sleek and modern look that can really transform the look of your kitchen. However, before you make the decision to go with high gloss cabinets, it’s important to be aware of both the pros and cons.
What is a high-gloss cabinet finish?
A high-gloss cabinet finish is a type of paint or varnish that gives cabinets a shiny, reflective surface. It’s one of the main types of finishes you’ll find on kitchen cabinets, and it can give your kitchen an updated look. If you’re considering a new kitchen, here’s what you need to know about high-gloss cabinet finishes.
The main types of high-gloss cabinet finishes are lacquer, acrylic, and laminate. Each has its own benefits and drawbacks that you’ll need to consider before choosing one for your kitchen.
Lacquer is a type of paint that dries to a hard, glossy finish. It’s durable and resists scratches and stains, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens. However, lacquer can be difficult to repair if it’s damaged, and the fumes from lacquer thinner can be toxic.
Acrylic is another type of paint that dries to a glossy finish. It’s less durable than lacquer but more forgiving if it’s damaged since you can sand down acrylic without damaging the underlying surface. Acrylic also doesn’t have any toxic fumes associated with its use.
Laminate is a synthetic material that has a high-gloss finish and comes in sheets that are applied over other surfaces using an adhesive. Laminate is very durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat damage. However, laminate cannot be repaired once it’s damaged; you’ll need to replace the entire sheet if there’s any damage done to your cabinets.
High-gloss finishes are a great way to update your kitchen cabinets and give them a modern look. However, you’ll need to consider the pros and cons of each type of finish before making your decision.
Pros of high gloss kitchen cabinets
As anyone who has ever been involved in a kitchen renovation knows, there are many different design choices to be made – and one of the most important is deciding on the right finish for your cabinets. A high gloss finish can give your kitchen an ultra-modern look, but it’s not without its benefits. Here are just a few pros of choosing high gloss kitchen cabinets:
- They’re easy to keep clean. One of the biggest advantages of high gloss finishes is that they’re very easy to wipe down and keep free from dirt and fingerprints. If you have young children or tend to use your hands a lot while cooking, this can be a huge plus!
- They reflect light well. Glossy surfaces reflect light better than matte finishes, so if you want to make your kitchen feel brighter and more open, high gloss cabinets are a great choice. This can be especially helpful if your kitchen doesn’t get a lot of natural light during the day.
- They accentuate other design elements. High gloss cabinet doors can help emphasize other design features in your kitchen, like countertops or backsplashes made from materials with interesting textures or patterns.
- They’re durable. When properly cared for, high gloss finishes are very resistant to scratches and other types of damage. This makes them a great choice if you have pets or children who might accidentally scratch the cabinets.
Cons of high gloss kitchen cabinets
High gloss kitchen cabinets can be a great addition to any home. They give the space a modern look and feel and are easy to clean. However, there are some downsides to high gloss cabinets that should be considered before making your final decision.
One of the biggest cons is that they can make small spaces appear even smaller. This is because the shiny surface reflects light, which can create an illusion of less space. If you have a small kitchen, high gloss cabinets may not be the best choice.
Another downside is that regular cleaning is required to keep them looking their best. Fingerprints and smudges show up more easily on high gloss surfaces than on matte finishes, so you’ll need to wipe them down more often. If you don’t want to spend time regularly cleaning your cabinets, then high gloss probably isn’t the right option for you.
Keep in mind that high gloss kitchen cabinets may not fit with every design style. If your kitchen has a traditional or country vibe, glossy cabinets might not be the best choice since they tend to lean more modern.
What are the disadvantages of high-gloss kitchen cabinets? They often require a high-gloss finish to be maintenance-free, while matte-finish cabinets usually require some form of sealant or protection.
Are high-gloss cabinets hard to keep clean? Not really, but they do require more frequent cleaning than matte cabinets. Overall, the pros and cons of high gloss kitchen cabinets are definitely something to consider before making the decision.
How to Choose the Right High Gloss Cabinet for Your Kitchen
When it comes to choosing cabinets for your kitchen, one of the most important things to consider is the finish. A high gloss finish can really make your cabinets stand out and give them a sleek, modern look. But how do you know if high gloss is the right choice for your kitchen? Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Eye level
When you walk into your kitchen, what do you see first? If it’s your appliances, then a high gloss cabinet might not be the best choice. Appliances tend to show fingerprints and smudges more easily than other surfaces, so if you’re looking for something that will always look clean and tidy, go with a different finish.
Center stage
Another thing to consider is whether or not your cabinets will be the center of attention in your kitchen. High gloss finishes can really help make a statement.
Budget
Of course, budget is always an important consideration when choosing any type of cabinetry. High gloss finishes tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum but they also offer a lot of value in terms of style and durability. So if you’ve got some extra room in your budget, definitely don’t rule out high glossy cabinets!
Personal preference
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to go with high gloss cabinets comes down to personal preference. If you love the look of sleek and shiny surfaces, then go for it! But if you prefer a more understated look, there are plenty of other finishes to choose from.
High Gloss Cabinet Maintenance Tips
Cabinet maintenance is key to maintaining a high gloss finish. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasives, as this can damage the finish. Keep your cabinet doors clean to achieve the desired gloss level. If you notice any wear or tear, it’s time for a new coat of paint! To clean your kitchen cabinets, use a good kitchen cleaning product to remove food and grease buildup.
If you’re still on the fence about whether or not to go with high gloss cabinets, we suggest taking a look at some pictures online or in magazines. Seeing examples of kitchens with high gloss cabinets can really help you visualize how they would look in your own space. And if you still can’t decide, why not try out a few samples? That way you can see and feel the difference for yourself before making any final decisions.
Choosing the right high gloss kitchen cabinet finish is essential for your kitchen’s look and functionality. By understanding the pros and cons of high gloss cabinet finishes, you can make an informed decision that meets your needs. In addition to this, we’ve provided helpful maintenance tips to keep your high gloss cabinet looking its best! So, what are you waiting for? Start shopping for your dream kitchen today and make sure to choose the right high gloss cabinet finish for your kitchen!