November 13, 2025
Before You Pick Up a Paintbrush- Read This First!

If you’ve ever scrolled through Pinterest or watched a home makeover show, painting your own cabinets might seem like a quick and affordable way to give your kitchen a facelift. While the idea of a “DIY cabinet refresh” sounds appealing, the reality is often more challenging, and more expensive; than homeowners expect.
At Harmony Painting, our experienced house painters in Urbandale, Iowa, have seen countless DIY cabinet projects that didn’t go as planned. Before you grab a brush, here are a few reasons to think twice and consider leaving your cabinets to the pros.
1. Prep Work Is More Intense Than It Looks
Cabinet painting is not as simple as applying a coat of paint. The process involves deep cleaning to remove grease, sanding every surface, removing hardware, labeling doors, and using the right bonding primer. Missing even one of these steps can cause paint to chip or peel within weeks.
2. The Finish Makes or Breaks the Look
Professionals use high quality sprayers and specialized paint designed for cabinets, creating a smooth, factory like finish. DIY brushes and rollers often leave streaks or texture that cheapen the look of your kitchen. Once the paint dries unevenly, fixing it means stripping and starting over.
3. Paint Type and Product Matter
Cabinets endure constant handling, heat, and moisture. Latex wall paint won’t hold up long term. Professional painters use catalyzed or enamel-based coatings made specifically for cabinets. Choosing the wrong paint can lead to bubbling, yellowing, or sticky surfaces that never fully cure.
4. It’s Easy to Damage Wood or Hardware
DIY sanding can easily go too deep, removing the protective veneer layer. Spraying or painting without proper masking can also leave paint on hinges, floors, or countertops. Professional painters protect your kitchen and hardware with careful prep and cleanup.
5. Time Adds Up Fast
Most homeowners underestimate how long a full cabinet job takes. Between drying times, sanding, and multiple coats, a typical DIY project can stretch from a weekend to several weeks. Hiring a professional team like Harmony Painting means your kitchen is back to normal in days, not weeks.
6. Professional Cabinet Painting Increases Value
A flawless cabinet finish instantly elevates your kitchen and increases home value. For homeowners planning to sell or remodel, hiring house painters in Urbandale, Iowa ensures lasting results that photograph beautifully for listings and stand up to daily use.
DIY cabinet painting might sound tempting, but between the time, tools, and skill required, it’s often more efficient (and affordable long-term) to trust professionals.
If you’re ready for a durable, factory-smooth cabinet finish, contact Harmony Painting! Your trusted house painters in Urbandale, Iowa. We’ll help you transform your kitchen, book shelves or bathrooms with precision, care, and color that lasts for years to come.
Call (515) 210-7663
At Harmony Painting, we’ve been helping Iowa property owners protect their investments for 19 years. If you’d like a free consultation and honest recommendations, our team is here to help.






