Lacquer vs. Acrylic Paint for Painting Cabinets: A Tale of Two Finishes

When it comes to transforming your cabinets, the type of paint you choose makes a world of difference in both appearance and durability. The two best options, in our opinion, are lacquer and urethane acrylic paints, each offering unique

benefits and drawbacks in cabinet painting. That's why we are here to inform you on which paint is right for you, then we will handle the rest.

In many ways, lacquer and urethane acrylic paints are similar in how they finish. And lets be clear, they are both great options for you cabinet painting project. Both lacquer and quality acrylic paints offer excellent durability when applied correctly. They resist regular wear and tear, scratches, and fading, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like the kitchen. With proper application, both lacquer and acrylic paints create a smooth, beautiful finish that elevates your cabinets. And either option can come in whatever solor you so desire for your cabinet painting project. Just let us know and we can have either made to the color you want.

That said, there are some differences between the two. Most notably is drying and curing time. Lacquer stands out for its incredibly fast drying time, sometimes drying to the touch in minutes. Curing time is also shorter. Acrylic usually takes longer to dry, although it is catching up with lacquer. for cabinet painting, this effects the duration of the project. Fast drying paints are preferred on our end and yours. Additionally, lacquer must be sprayed, requiring specialized equipment and ventilation. Higher-quality acrylic paints can be brushed, rolled, or sprayed, providing a bit more flexibility on our end, that is why we use this for your frames no matter what.

Now lets get to the obvious differences. First, lacquer has a very strong, solvent-based odor when it is applied. while this wont ever come into your home since we utilize a spray shop, it is different to Acrylic paints which generally have a milder odor. Second, Lacquer solvent base makes it more toxic than acrylics. While acrylic paints aren't completely non-toxic, they are generally considered safer to work with. and lastley, Lacquer is more expensive than acrylic, both in material cost and labor if hiring a professional painter.

So, which is better for your project. Well, that is up to you. Choosing between lacquer and acrylic paint for your cabinets depends on your priorities and circumstances. Whatever you choose for your cabinet painting project, both lacquer and acrylic paints deliver fantastic results. Consider these factors when making your decision: