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How to Paint Trailer House Cabinets

Most trailer house cabinets are made of pressed board, which consists of thin layers of wood pressed and bonded together with glue or resin. Some cabinets are made of particleboard, which is similar and may contain paper fibers or chipped wood. Usually, the cabinets are covered with wood veneer to make them appear more like real wood. Pressed board or particleboard cabinets are more porous than regular wood and require special care to prevent warping or peeling.

Things You'll Need

  • Screwdriver
  • Plastic cloth
  • Masking tape or painter's tape
  • Dish detergent
  • Fine sandpaper
  • Cloth
  • Latex primer
  • Paint roller or paintbrush
  • High-quality oil-based or latex enamel paint
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove the knobs, drawer pulls and hinges from the cabinets. If possible, move the cabinet doors to a large, well-ventilated area. Spread the doors on a plastic cloth.

    • 2

      Apply masking tape or painter's tape to areas of the floors or walls that meet the cabinets.

    • 3

      Scrub the cabinets and doors with hot water and dish detergent. Scrubbing removes grease and soil, making preparation for painting easier.

    • 4

      Sand the cabinets with fine sandpaper. Sand just enough to remove the glossy finish; otherwise, paint won't stick.

    • 5

      Use a slightly dampened cloth to wipe away dust caused by sanding. Wipe the cabinets thoroughly, rinsing the cloth as often as necessary.

    • 6

      Paint the cabinet frames with latex primer using a paint roller or high-quality paintbrush. Allow the paint to dry for at least 24 hours, then apply a second coat.

    • 7

      Paint one side of the cabinet doors with the latex primer. Allow the paint to dry thoroughly, then flip the doors and paint the other side. Allow the doors to dry, then apply a second coat to both sides.

    • 8

      Paint the cabinet frames and doors with high-quality oil-based or latex enamel paint, using the same painting techniques.

    • 9

      Apply a second coat if necessary. If the cabinets are properly primed, one coat is often enough.

    • 10

      Reattach the hinges, doors and knobs or drawer pulls.