Problem

What grit for cabinets before painting?

Cabinet paint can peel or show scratches when the surface is not prepared correctly.

Answer

For cabinets before painting, clean first, then scuff with 180 or 220. Use 320 lightly between cured coats.

Why it happens
Gloss, grease, and old finish need to be cleaned and scuffed so primer or paint can bond.
Recommended grit
Use 180 or 220 to scuff existing finish. Use 320 lightly between primer or paint coats.
Wet or dry
Dry.
Success check
The surface is clean, dull, and evenly scuffed before primer or paint.

What to do

  1. Clean grease and residue first.
  2. Scuff the cabinet surface with 180 or 220.
  3. Remove dust completely.
  4. Use 320 lightly between cured coats if needed.
Avoid: Do not paint over glossy cabinet finish without scuff sanding.

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