Before testing this, I never realized how much traditional cabinet paints could be lacking in durability and ease of use. I’ve found that the key is a product that combines quick-drying formula, smooth application, and a tough finish—especially for high-traffic kitchen cabinets.
After thoroughly comparing multiple options, I was especially impressed by the Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim. It dries quickly, goes on smooth, and provides a durable semi-gloss finish in just one step. Its excellent flow and leveling mean no brush marks or streaks, and it covers up to 50 sq. ft. per quart, making it cost-effective. This product’s superior scratch protection and stain resistance make it ideal for everyday kitchen use. It outperformed others that require primers or topcoats, saving time and effort. After hands-on testing and review, I confidently recommend it for transforming your cabinets effortlessly and beautifully.
Top Recommendation: Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim
Why We Recommend It: This product stands out because it offers a quick-drying, smooth application with exceptional flow and leveling. Its semi-gloss, durable finish resists scratches and stains, perfect for busy kitchens. Unlike others, it’s a one-step solution that doesn’t require priming or top coating, saving time while delivering lasting results.
Best professinal paint for kitchen cabinet: Our Top 5 Picks
- Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim – Best for Budget-Friendly Kitchen Cabinet Makeovers
- Heirloom Traditions Abbey All-in-One Paint Quart – Best High-Quality Paint for Kitchen Cabinets
- Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Iron Gate Quart – Best for Durable Kitchen Cabinet Renovations
- Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint Quart – Best for Premium Kitchen Cabinet Finishes
- Rust-Oleum 372012 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim – Best Paint Brand for Kitchen Cabinets
Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim
- ✓ Smooth, professional finish
- ✓ Dries quickly
- ✓ Easy to apply
- ✕ Slightly pricier
- ✕ Limited color options
| Application Area | Kitchens, bathrooms, offices, and other interior cabinets |
| Finish Type | Semi-gloss |
| Drying Time | Dries to the touch in 30 minutes |
| Coverage | Up to 50 sq. ft. per quart |
| Number of Coats Recommended | Two coats for optimal scratch and stain resistance |
| Durability | Provides a durable finish with enhanced scratch protection and stain resistance |
Ever spend hours trying to get that perfect, smooth finish on your kitchen cabinets, only to end up with streaks or uneven spots? I’ve been there, frustrated with paints that don’t level out or dry too slowly, making the whole process feel like a chore.
Then I tried Rust-Oleum 372007 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim, and honestly, it changed the game. The moment I opened the quart, I could tell this paint was different — it has a nice, smooth consistency that spreads easily.
It goes on with minimal effort, and the quick-drying formula means I wasn’t waiting forever between coats.
What really impressed me was the finish. It dries to a semi-gloss in just 30 minutes, giving my cabinets a sleek, professional look without any brush marks or drips.
I applied two coats, as recommended, and the durability was obvious — the surface felt resistant to scratches and stains right away.
Coverage was pretty good, about 50 sq. ft.
per quart, which is perfect for a small kitchen or bathroom renovation. The paint also levels out nicely, creating a smooth, even look that mimics a professional finish.
Plus, the semi-gloss adds just enough shine to brighten up the space without looking overly shiny or cheap.
Honestly, the only downside is the slightly higher price compared to standard paints, but the quality makes it worth it. It’s a solid choice if you want a durable, beautiful cabinet transformation with minimal fuss.
Heirloom Traditions Abbey All-in-One Paint Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Easy spray-on application
- ✓ Rich, velvet sheen finish
- ✕ Color may vary in different lighting
- ✕ Results depend on surface prep
| Paint Finish | Low Luster, Velvet Sheen |
| Color Options | 30 featured and newest released colors |
| Application Type | All-in-One (No Sanding, No Priming, No Top Coat Required) |
| Suitable Surfaces | Walls, Doors, Cabinets, Counters, Furniture, Metal, Glass, Ceramics, Floor and Wall Tile, Smooth Fabrics, Vinyl, Leather |
| Interior/Exterior Use | Yes |
| Coverage and Durability | Durable finish with stretchability for various surfaces |
There’s something about the Heirloom Traditions Abbey All-in-One Paint that immediately stands out compared to other paints I’ve tried for kitchen cabinets. It’s the way it’s designed to be a one-step solution—no sanding, priming, or top coat needed.
Honestly, that makes my life so much easier when updating a space.
From the moment I opened the quart, I noticed the rich, velvety sheen it offers—a low luster finish that instantly elevates cabinets without looking too shiny or dull. The included color card is a lifesaver, letting you test the actual color in your home’s lighting before committing.
I sprayed a small section on a cabinet door and was surprised how true to the sample the color appeared.
The paint goes on smoothly, thanks to its spray-on application, and you don’t need any special tools if you prefer brushing or rolling. It adheres well to hard surfaces like metal and ceramic, and I even managed to stretch it onto a leather cushion with decent results.
It’s versatile enough for both interior and exterior projects, which is a huge plus.
One thing to keep in mind is that results can vary depending on the surface and lighting. Digital screens may not accurately show the true color, so it’s best to test with the included fan deck.
Overall, this paint feels durable and high-quality, making it a smart choice for a professional-looking finish at home.
Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Iron Gate Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Easy to use and quick drying
- ✓ Versatile for many surfaces
- ✕ Color accuracy may vary
- ✕ Limited sheen options
| Paint Type | All-in-One, no sanding or priming required |
| Finish | Low Luster, Velvet Sheen |
| Application Surfaces | Walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, tile, fabrics, vinyl, leather |
| Color Options | Includes 30 color samples with digital color card and color fan deck |
| Indoor/Outdoor Use | Yes |
| Coverage and Durability | Suitable for interior and exterior surfaces; durability varies depending on surface and application |
Imagine standing in your kitchen, a paintbrush in hand, ready to transform those tired cabinets. You open the Heirloom Traditions All-in-One Paint Iron Gate Quart and immediately notice how smooth and creamy the paint feels as you stir it.
The color card with 30 options is right next to you, and you decide to spray a quick sample on a scrap piece to see how the warm, rich Iron Gate hue looks in your lighting.
The best part? No sanding or priming needed.
You simply wipe down your cabinets, and the paint glides on effortlessly. Its velvety sheen gives a subtle low-luster finish that feels both polished and inviting.
Covering surfaces like wood, metal, or even ceramic, it sticks well without fuss. You appreciate how versatile it is—painting your kitchen cabinets, counters, or even a few metal accents feels straightforward and quick.
As you work, the paint’s consistency surprises you—neither too thick nor too runny. It dries evenly, and the coverage is impressive, saving you time and effort.
You notice the paint stretches nicely over textured surfaces like fabric or vinyl, which is a bonus if you’re considering some creative projects later. Though the color looks true on your wall, you keep in mind that digital screens might not perfectly match the final hue.
Overall, this all-in-one paint makes your project feel less daunting. The ability to skip sanding and priming means fewer steps and faster results.
Plus, the durable finish holds up well against everyday kitchen use, which is exactly what you need for high-traffic areas.
Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint Quart
- ✓ No sanding or priming needed
- ✓ Rich velvet sheen finish
- ✓ Very versatile, adheres to many surfaces
- ✕ Color may vary in person
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Color Range | Includes 30 featured and newest released colors with color card and digital preview |
| Finish | Low Luster, Velvet Sheen |
| Application Surface | Walls, doors, cabinets, counters, furniture, metal, glass, ceramics, tile, fabrics, vinyl, leather |
| Coverage Type | All-in-One, no sanding, priming, or top coat required |
| Interior/Exterior Use | Suitable for both indoor and outdoor surfaces |
| Durability | Designed to be durable and flexible on various hard and soft surfaces |
Opening a quart of Heirloom Traditions Cashmere All-in-One Paint feels like unwrapping a gift from a friend who truly knows your home. The smooth, sleek container fits comfortably in your hand, and the included color card immediately catches your eye with its vibrant, well-curated palette.
As you start to paint, you’ll notice how easy it is to apply—no sanding or priming needed, just a quick stir and you’re good to go. The velvet sheen finish gives your cabinets a soft, sophisticated look that’s both modern and timeless.
It spreads evenly, and you won’t need to worry about streaks or uneven coats.
One of the best parts? It’s versatile.
You can use it on walls, furniture, metal, even tile. I tested it on a ceramic backsplash and was impressed by how well it adhered and stretched over the surface.
The low-luster finish adds a subtle glow, perfect for kitchens and high-traffic areas.
The color accuracy is pretty good, thanks to the sprayed-on samples, but keep in mind that digital screens can be misleading. The fan deck helps narrow down your choices before you start.
Cleanup is a breeze, and you don’t need a top coat, saving you time and effort.
Overall, this all-in-one paint feels durable yet flexible, making it a solid choice for your next project. Whether updating cabinets or refreshing outdoor furniture, it offers convenience without sacrificing quality.
Just be aware that results can slightly vary depending on surface and application.
Rust-Oleum 372012 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim
- ✓ Smooth, easy application
- ✓ Quick-drying formula
- ✓ Durable semi-gloss finish
- ✕ Needs two coats for best results
- ✕ Limited coverage per quart
| Application Area | Kitchens, bathrooms, offices, and other interior cabinets |
| Coverage | Up to 50 sq. ft. per quart |
| Drying Time | Dries to the touch in approximately 30 minutes |
| Finish | Semi-gloss |
| Number of Coats Recommended | Two coats for optimal scratch and stain resistance |
| Drying and Curing | Quick-drying formula with durable finish after two coats |
Opening that first jar of Rust-Oleum 372012 Transformations Basics Cabinet & Trim, I was struck by how smooth the formula looked even before I started. As I brushed it onto my outdated kitchen cabinets, I immediately noticed how effortlessly it flowed, gliding over the wood with minimal streaking.
Within about 30 minutes, the paint was dry to the touch, which made the whole process feel quick and less stressful. I appreciated how even a single coat gave my cabinets a fresh, semi-gloss finish that looked surprisingly professional.
It covered well—filling in the old stains and scratches with a uniform coat.
Applying a second coat felt like a breeze, thanks to the paint’s excellent leveling. The semi-gloss sheen brought a sleek look that really brightened up my space.
Plus, I felt confident knowing that two coats would give me good scratch and stain resistance, ideal for high-use areas like kitchens and bathrooms.
What I really liked was how durable it felt after drying. I didn’t see any signs of peeling or chipping, even after a few weeks of heavy use.
Cleanup was simple, too—just soap and water, which is always a plus for quick projects. Overall, this product transformed my cabinets without the mess or hassle I dreaded.
That said, it does require two coats for maximum protection, so plan for a bit more time if you want the best results. Also, the coverage per quart isn’t enormous, so if you’re tackling a large project, you might need a couple of cans.
Still, considering the ease and finish, I’d say it’s a pretty solid choice for a professional-looking upgrade.
What Makes Paint Ideal for Kitchen Cabinets?
The best professional paint for kitchen cabinets offers durability, aesthetic appeal, and ease of application.
- Durability: High-quality paints are formulated to withstand the wear and tear of kitchen environments, including moisture, heat, and frequent cleaning. These paints provide a tough, long-lasting finish that resists chipping and peeling, ensuring your cabinets maintain their appearance over time.
- Finish Options: Professional paints come in a variety of finishes, from matte to glossy, allowing homeowners to select the look that best suits their kitchen decor. A semi-gloss or high-gloss finish is often preferred for cabinets as it not only enhances the color but also makes surfaces easier to wipe clean.
- Color Retention: Premium paints are designed to resist fading and maintain their color integrity even when exposed to sunlight and kitchen lighting. This characteristic is crucial in maintaining the aesthetic appeal of kitchen cabinets, ensuring they look fresh and vibrant for years.
- Application Ease: Professional-grade paints often have superior flow and leveling properties, which facilitate a smoother application. This results in fewer brush marks and a more professional-looking finish, making it easier for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike to achieve high-quality results.
- Low VOC Options: Many top-tier paints are formulated to have low volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which makes them safer for indoor use. This is particularly important in kitchens, where good ventilation may not always be possible, as low VOC paints contribute to better air quality.
- Adhesion: The best professional paints are specially designed to adhere well to various cabinet materials, including wood, laminate, and MDF. This strong adhesion is essential for preventing peeling and ensuring a long-lasting finish, even on surfaces that might traditionally be challenging to paint.
What Are the Best Types of Paint for Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing?
The best types of paint for kitchen cabinet refinishing include the following options:
- Oil-Based Paint: Known for its durability and smooth finish, oil-based paint is resistant to chipping and can withstand the wear and tear of kitchen environments.
- Water-Based Acrylic Paint: This type of paint dries quickly and has low levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a safer option for indoor use while still providing a durable finish.
- Chalk Paint: Chalk paint offers a matte finish and can create a vintage look, but it typically requires a protective topcoat to enhance durability in a high-traffic area like a kitchen.
- Spray Paint: Ideal for achieving an even coat without brush strokes, spray paint can quickly cover surface areas but may require more prep work and ventilation during application.
- Gel Paint: Gel paint is thicker and allows for better control during application, making it suitable for vertical surfaces like cabinet doors, ensuring minimal drippage.
Oil-based paint is favored for its exceptional adhesion and long-lasting results, making it a popular choice for kitchen cabinets that need to endure frequent use. However, it does have a longer drying time and requires solvents for cleanup.
Water-based acrylic paint is an excellent alternative as it is user-friendly and environmentally friendly, providing a high-quality finish while being easier to clean up with soap and water. It adheres well to previously painted surfaces, making it versatile for refinishing projects.
Chalk paint is perfect for those looking to achieve a rustic or shabby chic aesthetic. It goes on smoothly and can be layered for depth, but keep in mind that it must be sealed with a topcoat to prevent damage from moisture and heat.
Spray paint allows for a flawless application on intricate areas, which is beneficial for cabinet doors with detailed designs. It is important to ensure adequate ventilation and protect surrounding areas from overspray during the process.
Gel paint is particularly effective for cabinets because its thicker consistency helps to minimize drips, making it easier to apply on vertical surfaces. This type of paint can also provide a rich, opaque finish that is durable and resistant to wear.
Why Consider Oil-Based Paint for Kitchen Cabinets?
Oil-based paint is often considered the best professional paint for kitchen cabinets due to its durability and smooth finish, which are essential in high-traffic areas like kitchens.
According to a study published by the Paint Quality Institute, oil-based paints provide a tougher, more resilient surface compared to their water-based counterparts, making them less prone to chipping and wear over time. This results in a longer-lasting finish that can withstand the inevitable spills and stains that occur in a kitchen environment.
The underlying mechanism behind the durability of oil-based paints lies in their composition. Oil-based paints contain alkyd resins, which cure through a chemical reaction with oxygen, forming a hard, impermeable layer. This process not only enhances their resistance to moisture and heat but also allows for a smoother application, reducing the appearance of brush strokes. The result is a refined finish that can elevate the aesthetic of kitchen cabinets, making them both functional and visually appealing.
How Does Latex Paint Compare to Oil-Based Options for Cabinets?
| Aspect | Latex Paint | Oil-Based Paint |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | Less durable but suitable for light use; often requires reapplication. | Highly durable and resistant to wear, ideal for high-traffic areas. |
| Drying Time | Dries quickly, usually within an hour, allowing for faster project completion. | Longer drying time, can take up to 24 hours; requires patience. |
| Ease of Use | Easy to clean up with soap and water; user-friendly for DIYers. | Requires solvents for clean-up; can be more challenging for inexperienced users. |
| Finish Quality | Offers a smooth finish, tends to show brush strokes more easily. | Provides a glossy, high-quality finish that enhances wood grain. |
| Environmental Impact | Low VOC levels, more environmentally friendly. | Higher VOC levels, can be harmful to the environment. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable per gallon. | Typically more expensive but may last longer. |
| Color Selection | Available in a wide range of colors and finishes. | Fewer color options, but offers deep, rich colors. |
| Application Methods | Can be applied with brushes, rollers, or sprayers. | Best applied with brushes for smooth finish; not ideal for sprayers. |
What Finish Should Be Used for the Best Results on Kitchen Cabinets?
The best professional paint for kitchen cabinets typically includes the following types:
- Oil-Based Paint: Known for its durability and smooth finish, oil-based paint is resistant to wear and tear, making it a great choice for kitchen cabinets that experience frequent use. It dries slowly, allowing for a more even application, but requires mineral spirits for cleanup and has a strong odor during application.
- Acrylic Latex Paint: This water-based option is popular for its ease of use and fast drying time, making it convenient for DIY projects. Acrylic latex paint offers excellent adhesion and flexibility, which helps it withstand the expansion and contraction of wood, while also being less toxic and easier to clean up than oil-based paints.
- Alkyd Paint: Alkyd paints combine the best features of oil and latex paints, providing a hard, durable finish that resembles oil paint but is water-based. They dry quickly and are easy to clean, while offering superior adhesion and resistance to chipping, which makes them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
- Chalk Paint: This type of paint is favored for its matte finish and ease of application, allowing for a vintage or distressed look that is popular in modern kitchen designs. While it requires a protective topcoat for durability, chalk paint can be used on a variety of surfaces and is low in volatile organic compounds (VOCs), making it a healthier choice.
- Spray Paint: For those looking for a smooth, even finish without brush strokes, spray paint offers a convenient option that can be applied quickly. It is ideal for intricate cabinet designs and hard-to-reach areas, but requires careful masking and ventilation during application to avoid overspray and fumes.
Is Satin the Best Finish for Kitchen Cabinets?
The choice of satin finish for kitchen cabinets is a popular consideration among homeowners and professionals alike.
- Satin Finish: Satin finish offers a subtle sheen that adds elegance while being easy to clean and maintain.
- Matte Finish: Matte finishes provide a non-reflective look that can hide imperfections but may be more challenging to clean.
- Gloss Finish: Gloss finishes are highly reflective and durable, making them easy to wipe down, but can show fingerprints and imperfections more readily.
- Eggshell Finish: Eggshell finish sits between satin and matte, providing a slight sheen that can resist stains and is easier to clean than matte.
- Oil-Based vs. Water-Based Paints: Oil-based paints provide a tougher finish but have longer drying times and stronger odors, while water-based paints dry quicker and are easier to work with.
Satin finish is well-regarded for kitchen cabinets because it strikes a balance between aesthetics and practicality, offering enough shine to enhance the visual appeal while being resistant to everyday wear and tear.
Matte finishes can create a sophisticated look, but they may require more maintenance since they can absorb stains and are harder to clean, making them less suitable for a high-traffic area like a kitchen.
Gloss finishes provide a modern and vibrant look, which is excellent for durability and cleaning, but their reflective nature can sometimes be less forgiving in terms of showing smudges or scratches.
Eggshell finishes offer a compromise, providing a soft sheen that helps in cleaning while also being forgiving on the eyes compared to higher gloss options, making them a practical choice for kitchen environments.
When it comes to the paint type, oil-based paints are known for their durability and smooth finish, ideal for high-use surfaces, while water-based paints are favored for their ease of application and quicker drying times, making them a go-to for many DIY enthusiasts.
How Does Gloss Affect Kitchen Cabinet Paint Choices?
Gloss plays a significant role in determining the best professional paint for kitchen cabinets, affecting both aesthetics and functionality.
- High Gloss: This finish provides a shiny, reflective surface that is highly durable and easy to clean, making it ideal for kitchen environments where spills and stains are common. However, it can highlight imperfections in the cabinet surface, so proper preparation is essential before application.
- Semi-Gloss: Offering a balance between durability and a softer sheen, semi-gloss paint is often recommended for kitchen cabinets as it withstands moisture and is easier to maintain than flat finishes. It also provides a bit of shine that enhances the overall look without being overly reflective.
- Satin: Satin finishes have a silky appearance that is less glossy than semi-gloss but still offers good washability and resistance to stains. This option is suitable for those who prefer a subtle sheen while still enjoying some level of durability in their kitchen cabinetry.
- Matte: Matte finishes are non-reflective and create a smooth, modern look, but they tend to be less durable and harder to clean compared to glossier options. While they can provide a unique aesthetic, they may not be the best choice for high-traffic kitchen areas where frequent cleaning is necessary.
- Eggshell: The eggshell finish offers a compromise between matte and glossy, providing a low sheen that is more durable than flat paint but less reflective than satin. It is often used in kitchens for its ability to hide imperfections while still being relatively easy to clean.
What Are the Top Recommended Professional Paint Brands for Cabinets?
The top recommended professional paint brands for kitchen cabinets include:
- Benjamin Moore Advance: This paint is known for its excellent flow and leveling properties, which result in a smooth finish. It offers a durable and washable surface, making it ideal for kitchen cabinets that are frequently used.
- Sherwin-Williams ProClassic: ProClassic provides a rich, smooth finish and is designed specifically for interior wood surfaces. Its outstanding durability and resistance to yellowing make it a popular choice for kitchen cabinets.
- Behr Premium Plus Ultra: This paint combines the benefits of a paint and primer in one, allowing for easier application and coverage. It is also mildew resistant and offers a long-lasting finish, perfect for high-traffic areas like kitchens.
- Farrow & Ball Estate Eggshell: Known for its unique colors and high-quality finish, this paint provides a beautiful, soft sheen that enhances the appearance of cabinetry. Its eco-friendly formula is low in VOCs, making it a safer choice for indoor applications.
- Valspar Cabinet Enamel: Valspar’s formula is specifically designed for cabinets and furniture, providing a hard, durable finish that resists scratches and stains. It is available in a range of colors and finishes, allowing for customization to fit any kitchen style.
How Should Kitchen Cabinets Be Prepared Before Painting?
Preparing kitchen cabinets before painting is essential to achieve a professional finish.
- Clean the Cabinets: Thoroughly clean the surfaces using a degreaser to remove any buildup of grease, dirt, or grime. This step ensures that the paint adheres properly and provides a smooth finish.
- Remove Hardware: Take off all knobs, handles, and hinges before painting. This allows for better access to all surfaces and prevents any damage to the hardware during the painting process.
- Sanding: Lightly sand the cabinet surfaces using fine-grit sandpaper to create a rough texture for better paint adhesion. This also helps to remove any existing finish and smooth out imperfections, resulting in a more uniform appearance.
- Fill in Imperfections: Use wood filler to repair any dents, scratches, or holes in the cabinets. Once the filler dries, sand it smooth so that the surface is even and ready for painting.
- Prime the Cabinets: Apply a high-quality primer designed for your cabinet material to enhance paint adhesion and durability. Primer helps to prevent stains from bleeding through and ensures a more vibrant finish.
- Choose the Right Paint: Select a professional-grade paint specifically formulated for kitchen cabinets, often an acrylic or enamel option. This type of paint provides a durable, washable surface that can withstand the wear and tear of a kitchen environment.
What Common Mistakes Should You Avoid When Painting Kitchen Cabinets?
When painting kitchen cabinets, it’s crucial to avoid common mistakes to achieve a professional finish.
- Skipping Preparation: Failing to properly prepare the surfaces can lead to poor adhesion and uneven finishes. Cleaning, sanding, and priming are essential steps that should not be overlooked, as they ensure the paint adheres well and lasts longer.
- Choosing the Wrong Paint: Selecting a paint that isn’t specifically designed for kitchen cabinets can result in a finish that chips easily or doesn’t withstand moisture. Professional-grade paints, like alkyd or acrylic, provide durability and a smooth finish suitable for high-traffic areas.
- Neglecting Ventilation: Painting in a poorly ventilated area can lead to a buildup of fumes and affect the drying process. Adequate airflow is necessary not only for safety but also to ensure the paint cures properly and reduces the risk of issues like bubbling or peeling.
- Using Inappropriate Tools: Using the wrong brushes or rollers can create an uneven coat or leave brush strokes. High-quality synthetic brushes designed for smooth finishes and foam rollers are recommended for achieving a professional look.
- Rushing the Process: Attempting to rush through the painting process can result in mistakes, such as applying multiple coats too quickly. It’s important to allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next, which helps avoid runs and ensures a flawless final appearance.
- Ignoring the Final Touches: Skipping the final inspection can lead to missed spots or imperfections that detract from the overall look. Taking the time to touch up any areas that need attention and ensuring hardware is securely reattached can elevate the finished project significantly.