How painted and stained cabinets differ in look, upkeep, wood choice and repair.
Painted cabinets are covered in an opaque coating, so the color is the star and the grain is hidden or softened. Stained cabinets have a transparent color that lets the grain show, and a clear coat protects it. The choice sets the mood of the room, from bright and clean to warm and natural, and also changes the kind of wood and the upkeep that make sense.
Painted finishes are popular for their range of colors and clean look. Stained finishes suit homeowners who love wood. Both can be beautiful and long lasting when properly prepared and sealed. Nashville homeowners often mix them, such as a stained island with painted cabinets around it. We bring samples to your kitchen so you can judge them in your own light.
Opaque color that hides grain and suits maple and other smooth woods.
Transparent color that shows grain and suits oak, cherry and walnut.
Painted colors look consistent. Stain varies with the board and the light.
Painted chips can be touched up. Stain scratches can be blended.
Painted suits many styles. Stained suits traditional and natural looks.
Both wipe clean. Avoid harsh cleaners on either.
Shaker Style CabinetsShaker style cabinets with a simple five-piece door, clean lines and a finish you choose, from soft white…Explore 
Painted CabinetsPainted cabinets finished in a durable catalyzed or lacquer coating, in white, soft neutrals or deep colors, with…Explore 
Cabinet RefinishingCabinet refinishing that strips, repairs and recoats your existing cabinets in stain or paint, restoring color and protection…Explore 
Cabinet PaintingCabinet painting with careful cleaning, sanding, priming and a durable coating, so existing cabinets get a smooth, lasting…Explore 
Cabinet Restoration and Touch-UpCabinet restoration and touch-up for scratches, chips, worn edges and faded finishes, using color-matched repairs on wood and…Explore Size a room, check your cabinets or ballpark a budget.
Cabinet Layout and Quantity CalculatorEnter your measurements to see base and wall cabinet counts, counter area, vanity widths, closet sections, bookcase bays and pantry shelves.Try it 
Should I Refresh or Replace My Cabinets? CheckerPick your cabinet type, condition and the signs you see to learn whether a tune-up, paint, refacing or replacement may fit.Try it 
Cabinet Budget PlannerPick a kitchen, bath, built-in or repair project, set the size and add allowances to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it Stain can hide small scratches in the grain, while paint can show chips. Both can be touched up.
Painted cabinets are very popular, but stained wood is classic and remains a favorite.
Yes, with proper cleaning, sanding and primer.
Comparison guideFramed vs FramelessHow face frame cabinets and frameless cabinets differ in look, storage, strength and installation.Learn more 
Comparison guideInset vs OverlayHow inset doors, full overlay doors and partial overlay doors differ in look, cost of labor and storage.Learn more 
Comparison guideCabinet MaterialsHow solid wood, plywood, fiberboard and particleboard compare as cabinet materials for boxes, doors and shelves.Learn more 
Comparison guideDoor FinishesHow thermofoil, laminate, painted and natural wood doors compare in look, wear, repair and cleaning.Learn more Call us and describe your room. We will visit, talk through options and give you a clear written estimate.
