Glazing is a word that comes up frequently when you start researching cabinets, but it tends to be a mystery to many new cabinet shoppers. What is glaze? What does the glazing process consist of? What options do I have with glazing? These are all common questions that come up, but no worries – we have answers to all of them.

What is Glaze?

After your cabinet has been painted or stained, you have the option of having them glazed. Glaze is a transparent (or semi-transparent) coating that is applied as one of the last steps to add some color and depth to your cabinet doors. Often, a glaze is added to give cabinets an antique-like appearance.

What is the Glazing Process?

Glaze is usually applied by brush or by hand in a thin layer and then wiped off. The glaze settles into crevices and decorative details to leave a darkened highlight. Depending on the look you want, glaze can be applied more than once. Once the desired look is achieved, the cabinets are finished with a topcoat for protection.

What Glazing Options do I have?

If you’re trying to achieve an antique look, a darker glaze on white or light cabinets will give you that effect. An extremely popular cabinet glaze combo is antique white paint, with a cocoa glaze. There are plenty of other options as well - glaze comes in many different shades and tints. Common glazing colors include:  White, black, cocoa (as we mentioned above), pewter and cream.

Generally, these glazes are applied to both stained and painted cabinetry with great success in achieving the desired look.

Will it compromise my cabinets?

Assuming that you are starting with a durable cabinet and a high quality glaze, the glazing process will not compromise the quality of your cabinetry. To make sure you get the best results, work with a manufacturer you can trust.

Glazing is a great option to give your cabinets a unique touch. It does usually add a bit to the overall cost, but if the glazed look is what you’re after, there is no better way to achieve it (go figure).

Contact one of our experts today to learn more about the many glazing and painting options available to you.