Do I Need to Seal or Finish My Cabinets?
- Evergreen Cabinet
- Aug 15
- 3 min read
When it comes to keeping your cabinets looking beautiful and lasting for years, one of the most common questions homeowners ask is: “Do I need to seal or finish my cabinets?” The answer depends on the type of cabinets you have, their location, and how they were made.
What Does “Sealing” or “Finishing” Mean?
In cabinetry, a seal or finish is a protective coating applied to the surface of the cabinet. This layer shields the material from moisture, stains, and wear while enhancing its appearance. Common finishes include:
Lacquer – Smooth, durable, and often factory-applied for an even coat.
Polyurethane – Excellent protection against moisture and scratches.
Oil Finishes – Penetrate the wood for a natural look but may require periodic reapplication.
Water-Based Finishes – Low-odor, eco-friendly, and quick-drying.
For more details on how different cabinet materials respond to finishes, check out our article: How to Choose Cabinet Materials: A Complete Guide for Homeowners and Contractors.
When You Don’t Need Additional Sealing
If your cabinets are factory-finished or made from materials like thermofoil, laminate, or melamine, they already have a built-in protective layer. Adding another coat won’t improve protection and could even affect the appearance.
Signs your cabinets are already sealed:
Smooth, slick surface
Consistent sheen (matte, satin, or glossy)
Water beads up instead of soaking in
Want to know if your cabinets are truly built to last? Read: How Can I Tell if a Cabinet Is Good Quality?.
When You Should Seal or Finish Your Cabinets
You should consider sealing if:
They’re Unfinished Wood - Raw wood is highly porous and will absorb water, oil, and dirt without protection.
They’ve Been Sanded or Painted Without a Topcoat - Paint can chip or stain if not sealed with a protective clear coat.
They’re in High-Moisture Areas - Kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms expose cabinets to steam, splashes, and humidity.
You Want Extra Durability - Even finished cabinets may benefit from a new topcoat after years of use.
Benefits of Sealing or Finishing
Moisture Resistance: Prevents swelling, warping, and mold growth.
Durability: Reduces wear from daily use, including scratches and dents.
Easy Cleaning: Sealed surfaces are easier to wipe down.
Enhanced Appearance: Brings out the richness of wood grain or adds a professional sheen.
For tips on prolonging cabinet life, visit: How Long Do Kitchen or Bathroom Cabinets Typically Last?.
How to Seal or Finish Cabinets
Clean the Surface – Remove dust, grease, and debris.
Lightly Sand – Creates a surface that the finish can adhere to.
Apply the Finish – Use a brush, roller, or sprayer following product instructions.
Allow Proper Drying Time – Multiple coats may be necessary.
Maintain Regularly – Wipe spills quickly and use gentle cleaners.
If you’re considering doing it yourself, also see: Solid Wood vs. MDF vs. Plywood vs. Particle Board Cabinets to understand how each material reacts to finishing.
Pro Tip from the Experts
If you’re unsure about whether your cabinets are sealed, run your hand over the surface. If it feels raw, chalky, or overly dry, it’s likely unsealed. In that case, adding a quality finish can save you from costly repairs down the line.
Bottom Line
Sealing or finishing your cabinets isn’t always required, but for unfinished, high-use, or moisture-exposed cabinets, it’s one of the best ways to protect your investment and maintain their beauty for years.
📍 Cabinet Experts in Los Angeles
At Evergreen Cabinet, we help contractors, developers, and homeowners find the perfect kitchen cabinet materials for their needs. Whether you're looking for solid wood cabinets or high-quality HDF (a denser, more durable version of MDF) cabinets, we’ve got you covered.
🛠️ Located in City of Industry, CA, we offer fast delivery, expert advice, and competitive wholesale pricing.
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