You’re not at the finish line until you’ve selected a finish option for your cabinets.

Once upon a time, cabinets required regular waxing for protection—because they were unfinished. Today’s hi-tech polyurethane and conversion varnish finishes keep your cabinetry protected and beautiful for years to come.

Like the finest furniture, the highest quality cabinets are finished in multiple steps, which might include hand sanding, rubbing with steel wool, and hand buffing. Compare it to painting: You want to apply several thin layers so that if it chips it won’t all peel off. The multiple steps also help create a smoother texture and a deeper color. Check for the following indicators of a high quality finish:

• UV inhibitors to prevent damage from light
   
• A baked-on catalytic-conversion varnish for strength and durability
   
• Hand finishing: hand-rubbed stains with equalizers/toners and sanding keep the wood surface smooth and even and indicate careful attention in the manufacturer’s part
   
• High solid sealers to protect the wood