Should I paint or replace my kitchen cabinets in Marple and Romiley?

A tired kitchen is one of the most common reasons people call a decorator in the autumn. The question we hear most often in Romiley, Marple and Bredbury is simple: is it worth painting the cabinets, or should we just replace the kitchen?

Here is an honest answer, with real prices, so you can decide.

Is it cheaper to paint or replace kitchen cabinets?

Painting is almost always cheaper, often by thousands of pounds. You keep the carcasses, worktops, sink and appliances. You only change the colour and finish of the doors, drawer fronts and visible panels.

Option	Typical cost	Typical time
Professional cabinet painting (small kitchen)	From £1,150	3 to 5 days
New fitted kitchen, UK average total*	Around £10,550	A few days to two weeks to fit
Fitting labour alone, UK average*	Around £3,500	–

*National figures from Checkatrade's 2026 new kitchen cost guide. Your own quote will depend on size, units and finish.

Our price covers a small kitchen. Larger kitchens, islands and extra panels cost more. You can see all our current prices on the prices page, including our day rate of £250 per decorator.

When does painting make sense?

Painting is a good choice when the kitchen works well but looks dated. Look for these signs:

• The carcasses are solid, with no water damage or sagging shelves.
• Doors open, close and line up properly.
• You are happy with the layout, worktops and appliances.
• The doors are solid wood, MDF, or laminate or vinyl wrap that is still firmly stuck down.
• You want a new colour, such as a deep green, navy or soft off-white, rather than a new design.

Many kitchens in the Victorian terraces and 1960s to 1990s semis around Marple, Romiley and Bredbury fit this description. The units are well built. They just look tired.

When should I replace the kitchen instead?

Painting cannot fix structural problems. Replacement is usually the better spend if:

• Doors or carcasses are swollen from water, especially around the sink or dishwasher.
• Vinyl wrap is already peeling or bubbling, often near the oven or kettle.
• Hinges are pulling out of chipboard and the doors sag.
• You want to change the layout, add an island or move the sink.
• Worktops and appliances also need replacing.

If you are unsure, we can look at it when we quote. We will tell you if painting is not the right answer.

Can laminate and vinyl-wrapped doors be painted?

Usually, yes. Shiny laminate and vinyl wrap are hard for paint to grip, which is why so many DIY jobs chip within months. Preparation and the right primer make the difference.

We test adhesion on a hidden area first. If the surface passes, we use a specialist bonding primer designed for slick surfaces. If the wrap is lifting, we will tell you, because no paint will hold on a surface that is coming away.

What does professional cabinet painting involve?

A durable finish is mostly about preparation. Our kitchen cabinet painting service includes:

1. Removing and labelling all doors and drawer fronts.
2. Degreasing every surface. Kitchen grease is the main cause of paint failure.
3. Sanding to give the primer a key.
4. Applying a bonding primer.
5. Applying two coats of hard-wearing cabinet enamel.
6. Painting carcass edges, end panels and plinths so the finish looks complete.
7. Fitting new handles, if you supply them.

All of our work comes with a two-year workmanship guarantee.

How long does it take, and can I still use my kitchen?

Most small kitchens take 3 to 5 days. You can use the kitchen in the evenings while we work.

The paint is touch-dry within hours. However, cabinet paint takes about two weeks to fully harden. During that time, avoid knocking doors, wipe gently and do not use harsh cleaners. After it has cured, it stands up well to daily use.

Is now a good time to paint kitchen cabinets?

Yes. Cabinet painting is indoor work, so the autumn and winter weather in Stockport does not hold it up. The heating is usually on, which keeps rooms at a steady temperature for drying.

If you want the kitchen looking its best for Christmas, plan backwards:

Step	Allow
Quote and colour choice	About a week
Painting	3 to 5 days
Full hardening	About two weeks

That means booking in October or early November gives the paint time to cure before guests arrive. Our 10% winter interior saver also applies to interior work from November to February. Check the prices page for current offers and terms.

How do I choose a colour for painted cabinets?

A few practical tips:

• Bring home samples and look at them in daylight and under your kitchen lights.
• Darker colours hide everyday marks but show dust. Very pale colours show fingerprints near handles.
• Consider two tones, such as darker base units and lighter wall units, to make a small kitchen feel taller.
• Choose handles at the same time. New handles change the look as much as the paint.

Every quote includes a free colour consultation, so we can help you narrow it down.

Want a price for your kitchen?

If you live in Romiley, Marple, Marple Bridge, Bredbury, Woodley, Compstall, Offerton or Hazel Grove, we can visit and give you a fixed written quote. Tell us roughly how many doors and drawers you have, and send a couple of photos if you can.

Request your free quote and we will be in touch to arrange a visit.