5 Best Topcoat for Painted Cabinets

You have just finished painting your cabinets and are looking for the best topcoat for painted cabinets to protect your investment. 

According to the report of the National Association of Home Builders, Cabinet painting is a popular way to update your home’s look without much effort or expense. Painted cabinets can be a beautiful addition to any home, but they must be appropriately protected to last.

When painting your cabinets, it is essential to use a top coat to protect the paint. A topcoat is a clear coating over paint that protects it from scratches, stains, and water damage. It also brings out the color and luster of the paint, making it look its best.

 Many topcoats are available, but which is the best for painted cabinets? If you read this blog post’s review of the benefits and drawbacks of each type of topcoat, you may select the one that is most appropriate for you.

I have also shared a buying guide for the top coat, which will help you select the best topcoat for painted cabinets.

So, what’s the best topcoat for painted cabinets? Keep reading to find out!

Are you in hurry? Check out below

In my opinion, a good topcoat is key to keeping your paint job looking great for years to come.

There are a lot of different topcoats on the market these days, so it can be tough to decide which one to buy. I’ve tried out a few different ones, and I think the best one is Minwax Polycrylic. It has great coverage and dries quickly, so you won’t have to wait long before you can start using your cabinets again.

I highly recommend giving Minwax Polycrylic a try if you’re looking for a good topcoat for your painted cabinets.

Buying Guide for Best Topcoat for Painted Cabinets

Topcoats are used above the paint or primer. They provide good adherence to the below-painted surface and protect your painted surface from dust and dirt. But before you buy the best topcoat for a painted cabinet, you need to consider the following factors:

Types of Coats

The first factor you need to consider is the coat type. Top coats have direct contact with the environment, so they should be strong enough to withstand the harsh weather conditions. 

Topcoats are either oil-based or water-based. The main differences between an oil-based topcoat and a water-based topcoat are the dry time, odor, and cleanup. 

Oil-based topcoats will have a longer dry time than water-based topcoats. They will also have a stronger odor and require mineral spirits for cleanup. 

Water-based topcoats have very little odor and can be cleaned with soap and water. They also have shorter dry times. When choosing a topcoat, keep in mind the environment in which you will use the project. For example, if you are painting a piece of furniture that you will use outdoors, an outdoor topcoat would be better than an indoor topcoat. Indoor topcoats are not as durable as outdoor topcoats and will not stand up to the elements as well.

Price and Quality of Topcoat

Before choosing the topcoats, you must also consider their cost and quality. For a lower price, look for a water-based polyurethane that will provide good protection against scuffs and stains.

Higher-priced topcoats tend to be oil-based, which offer more durability and resistance to yellowing over time. When selecting a topcoat, choose one that is compatible with the paint you used on your cabinets.

Toxicity

When selecting a topcoat, it is important to consider the product’s toxicity. Some topcoats contain chemicals that can be harmful to your health. 

If you are cautious about a product’s toxicity, look for a topcoat labeled as “non-toxic” or “low VOC.” These products will not release harmful chemicals into the air and are safe to use in your home. 

Once you have selected a safe and non-toxic topcoat, follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the product is applied correctly. 

Ease of application

Topcoats come in various types, including water-based, oil-based, and lacquer-based. Water-based topcoats are the easiest to apply and are less likely to yellow over time. Oil-based topcoats provide a durable finish but can be difficult to apply evenly. 

Lacquer-based topcoats offer the best protection against chips and scratches but can be tricky to apply smoothly. When choosing a top coat for painted cabinets, it is important to consider the type of paint used and the desired finish. 

Durability

If you have cabinets that require a lot, such as in a kitchen or bathroom, you’ll want to choose a highly durable top coat. You can choose a topcoat with a softer sheen for less-used surfaces, such as dressers or end tables.

Drying time

Topcoats are one of the most important aspects of painting cabinets. . When choosing a topcoat, it is important to consider the drying time. Topcoats with a longer drying time will provide a tougher finish, but they may take longer to apply. 

Topcoats with a shorter drying time will be easier to apply but may not last as long. It is also important to consider the environment in which you will use the cabinet.

Topcoats designed for high-humidity areas will be more resistant to moisture, but they may not hold up well in dry areas. Topcoats designed for low-humidity areas will be less resistant to moisture but will hold up better in dry areas. When choosing a topcoat, it is important to consider the intended use and environment.

Sheen

Topcoats for painted cabinets come in various sheens, from high-gloss to satin. When choosing a topcoat, it’s important to consider the look you’re going for and the durability you need. 

High-gloss topcoats are durable and easy to clean, but they can also show imperfections in the paint job more easily. 

If you’re looking for a more forgiving finish, satin topcoats are a good choice. They have less shine than high-gloss finishes, but they’re still easy to clean and maintain. 

When choosing a topcoat, it’s also important to consider the paint you used on your cabinets. Topcoats compatible with your paint will help extend its lifespan and maintain its finish.

 Best topcoat for Painted Cabinets : Choose the Right One!

We have the best topcoat on the market today. It’s been tested and proven to give your cabinets the necessary protection. Plus, it dries quickly, so you can get back to your day without waiting for it to dry.

A good top coat will protect your paint job and ensure that your cabinets look beautiful for years to come. Here are five of the best top coats for painted cabinets to match any décor and protect your painted surface from dust and dirt.

Minwax 63333 Clear Polycrylic Water-Based Protective Finish Satin

Minwax Polycrylic is a water-based protective finish that provides a clear, durable coating on wood surfaces. Minwax  Polycrylic is a clear, water-based polyurethane that has been specifically formulated to protect painted surfaces.

It is durable, resistant to staining, and can be used on interior and exterior surfaces.

Polycrylic is available in various finishes, including gloss, semi-gloss, and satin. It may be applied with a brush, roller, or sprayer and hardens to a clear finish very rapidly.

Polycrylic is an excellent choice for protecting painted surfaces from wear and tear.

Pros

• It improves the appearance of the paint while also adding a layer of protection to your paint job.
• It is designed to be durable and long-lasting. 
• It is also water-resistant and can help protect your paint job from damage caused by moisture. 
• This kind of paint is simple to use and won’t oxidize. Additionally, it dries rapidly and offers a high-gloss finish that will enhance the appearance of your paint job.
• It comes in satin, gloss, and semi-gloss finishes.
• It is resistant to fading, yellowing, and chipping and can be used on interior and exterior surfaces. 

Cons

•  It is not as tough as oil-based paint, so it may not withstand heavy traffic or wear and tear as well.
• It is not easy to apply evenly, resulting in streaking or brush marks.
• Finally, polycrylic often requires multiple coats to achieve the desired result, which can add to the cost of the project.

Rust-Oleum 7779502 Stops Rust Brush On Paint

Rust-Oleum protective enamel is a top coat for painted surfaces. It is a clear, durable, and protective coating that helps resist cracking, peeling, and chipping.

The enamel can be applied to any painted surface, including metal, wood, and concrete. It is also ideal for use in high-traffic areas, such as kitchens and bathrooms.

Protective enamel is available in various gloss levels, from satin to high-gloss. Additionally, it can be colored to match the color of the base paint.

Rust-Oleum protective enamel is easy to apply and dries quickly. It provides long-lasting protection against the elements and helps to keep surfaces looking new. Rust-Oleum paint is also one of the more expensive options on the market. Overall, Rust-Oleum protective enamel is a good choice for durable topcoat paint.

Pros

• It is often used on metal surfaces.
• The paint provides a durable, protective finish that resists rust and corrosion.

Cons

• One drawback is that it could be challenging to apply uniformly.
• Another issue is that the paint can sometimes chip or flake off, especially if it is not applied properly.

General Finishes Flat Out Flat Topcoat, Pint

General Finishes Topcoat is a water-based topcoat designed for use on painted surfaces. The topcoat is available in pint-size and dries to a flat, matte finish.

It is good for both interior and exterior surfaces and is resistant to fading, chipping, or yellowing.

The topcoat is also non-toxic, streak-free, and easy to apply. Unlike other topcoats, it does not require a primer or sealer before application. Apply the topcoat to clean, dry surfaces using a brush, roller, or sprayer.

Pros

• It is a top coat paint that you can use on various surfaces.
• It is available in pint-size and can be applied with a brush or roller.
• It is durable and long-lasting. 
• It is also resistant to chipping, cracking, and peeling, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas.

Cons

• One is that it can take longer to dry than other types of paint, so you must be patient when applying it.
• It is not as forgiving as other paints if you make a mistake while painting.

Varathane 200061H Water-Based Ultimate Polyurethane

A Varathane topcoat is a clear, protective finish applied over paint or another finish. Topcoats provide extra protection against scratches, stains, and other damage. They also help to resist fading and yellowing.

Varathane polyurethane is a popular type of topcoat for painted surfaces. You can find it in gloss, semi-gloss, and matte finishes.

Varathane polyurethane is easy to apply and provides a durable, long-lasting finish. Additionally, it is resistant to fading, stains, and scratches. Rust-Oleum Varathane polyurethane is a topcoat paint that offers many benefits.

Pros

• It is highly durable and resists scratches, chipping, and peeling.
• In addition, it is resistant to mold and mildew and is easy to clean.

Cons

• It can yellow with time and is a little more expensive than other types of paint.
• It is a good option for durable and easy-to-maintain top coat paint.

Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane Protective Wood Finish, Clear Satin

Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane is a clear, oil-based, durable protective finish. It is specially formulated to provide excellent durability and offers long-lasting protection on finished and unfinished wood surfaces.

It is fast-drying, so you can complete your project in a shorter time, and can be used on interior and exterior surfaces.

Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane has superior resistance to abrasion, scuffing, chipping, peeling, and fading. You can apply it with a natural bristle or synthetic brush, cloth, or foam applicator.

Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane dries to the touch in 2 hours and can be recoated after 24 hours. For maximum durability and scratch resistance, allow Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane to dry thoroughly before using your cabinets, furniture, or floor.

You will achieve the best results if you follow the label directions and use Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane in a well-ventilated area.

Pros

• It has a clear finish that dries in just two hours.
• It is ideal for wood surfaces, such as floors, furniture, and cabinets.
• It is a durable finish that helps to protect surfaces from scratches, scuffs, and stains.

Cons

• The finish can be yellow over time and is not as heat resistant as other top coats.
• It is unsuitable for porous surfaces, such as metal or plastic.
• It is a good choice for those looking for a quick-drying, durable top coat.

Wrap Up on Best Topcoat for Painted Cabinets

Maybe you’re not a fan of your kitchen’s current color or design. Maybe it just needs an upgrade to match the rest of your home, so painting cabinets is one way that can happen! Once you’ve finished painting your cabinets, you’ll need to choose a topcoat.

The beauty of top coat paint is that it can help protect your beautiful work from all sorts of things, like wear and tear! Top coat paint creates a barrier between your paint and the elements, meaning that your paint will last longer.

It can also help resist staining and fading. However, there are some downsides to using top coat paint. One of the biggest is that it can be tricky to apply evenly. If it’s not applied correctly, it can create an uneven finish.

It can also be more expensive than regular paint, and it’s not always necessary for every project. Ultimately, whether or not to use top coat paint is a decision that depends on your specific needs and preferences.

FAQ: Best Topcoat for Painted Cabinets

Are you looking for the best topcoat for your painted cabinet? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you choose the right product.