I have plain jane oak kitchen cabinets that I want to paint white. I'm not sure what kind of paint I need to use. I would rather use latex but didn't know how well that would hold up. Plus if I use latex paint what kind of primer would I need to use? I'm wanting to spray this paint on with paint sprayer but didn't know if latex paint had to be thinned to spray. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks

If it were me I would scuff them well with sand paper and then prime them with an oil based primer then use a quality latex paint as far as whether you'll need to thin the paint will depend on what type of sprayer your using and the paint. Most paints and primers have instructions for thinning depending on your sprayer tip. If I've missed anything post back . GOOD LUCK, AC

I'm with ac101. Definitely sand the surface well and wipe down with a "tack cloth" ($2.00 at local hardware) just prior to priming. Personally, I also do a light sanding and tack-cloth wipe in between coats as well. You don't want to be re-painting again in three to five years, do you?

However, there is a strong move away from oil-based paints because of the environment. I'm a home builder and I can tell you that I haven't seen a new home get oil-based paint or primer in some time, inside or out. You can spray prime with a good quality latex primer and then spray your latex paint to finish your cabinets.

One word of caution. Although what I've outlined works very well, what we have lost by moving to latex primer, in my opinion, is the richness and depth of the final finish. Most people today don't see the difference but, I've been around this business for thirty-plus years. For the very best finish, an oil-based primer cannot be beat. But the environment pays, heavily.

No matter which way you go, don't scrimp on the quality of your paint and you will be happy with your new kitchen!!

Best of luck!
gmwthree

I agree with gmwthree about oils and environment and the reason I suggested oil instead of latex is that I do not know what if any finish is currently on the cabinets if the are new unfinished I would follow gmwthree's advice and I forgot to mention the tack cloth, well worth the effort. The only time I still use oil based primer is painting over previously stained or urethaned surfaces other than that its latex. One last thing if you use oil based primer be sure to open windows or other wise ventilate the odor is strong for most people.

GOOD LUCK, AC

I can appreciate all of the excellent advice that has been happening here, and will have further things to add, depending on what the responses are. But, what I would like to know is why you are wanting to paint over oak cabinets, please? Are they already painted? Do you not want to refinish them with maybe a stain and clear coat of some kind? I'm just curious and not trying to be judgmental in any way. I am a painter and also a finisher and refinisher. Thanks!

You should also look into getting Trisodium phosphate (TSP) to clean the cabinets before any kind of painting. It is a degreaser used to prepare the surface for painting.