How do I spray-paint cabinet doors in a NB kitchen?

Spray-painting cabinet doors is definitely doable for NB homeowners, but success depends heavily on proper preparation, climate control, and using the right products for our Maritime humidity.

The biggest challenge in New Brunswick is managing humidity during the painting process. Summer humidity can prevent paint from curing properly, leading to a tacky finish that attracts dust and fingerprints. Winter's dry heated air is actually better for painting, but you'll need a heated workspace since most spray paints require temperatures above 15°C (60°F) for proper application.

Preparation is absolutely critical — it's 80% of a successful paint job. Remove all doors and hardware, then clean thoroughly with TSP (trisodium phosphate) to remove grease and grime. Sand lightly with 220-grit paper to give the primer something to grip, especially important on glossy finishes. Fill any holes or dents with wood filler, let cure completely, then sand smooth. In NB's older homes, test for lead paint first if the cabinets are pre-1980 — use an EPA-approved test kit.

Choose the right products for NB's climate. Use a high-quality bonding primer like Zinsser Bulls Eye 1-2-3 or Benjamin Moore Fresh Start, followed by a durable topcoat like Benjamin Moore Advance (alkyd) or Sherwin Williams ProClassic. These paints are formulated to handle humidity swings better than basic latex. For spray application, thin according to manufacturer specs — usually 10-15% for most sprayers.

Set up your spray area properly. You need excellent ventilation and dust control — a garage with open doors works, but watch for wind carrying dust. Hang doors vertically on a spray rack or lay flat on sawhorses with proper support. Use a quality HVLP sprayer or airless unit — cheap sprayers from big box stores often produce uneven coverage. Apply thin, even coats rather than trying to get full coverage in one pass.

Timing matters in NB. Avoid painting during humid summer days (over 70% humidity) or when rain is forecast. Spring and fall offer the best conditions — moderate temperature and lower humidity. Allow proper cure time between coats — usually 4-6 hours for primer, 6-8 hours between topcoats, but extend this in humid conditions.

When to hire a professional: If your kitchen has 20+ doors, intricate raised panels, or you don't have proper spray equipment and ventilation setup. Professional spray booths control temperature, humidity, and dust perfectly — something hard to achieve in a home garage. Many NB cabinet shops offer door refinishing services for $25-50 per door, which might be worth it for complex projects.

The whole process typically takes 3-5 days including cure time, and properly sprayed doors should last 10-15 years in a NB kitchen if you use quality materials and proper technique.