Peel-and-stick backsplash is a lifesaver for quick flips, but I’ve had mixed luck with it near stoves—heat can make the edges curl over time.
Yeah, that curling issue drives me a little nuts. Have you ever tried using a heat-resistant adhesive or maybe a thin bead of caulk along the edges? I’m always wondering if there’s a trick I’m missing, or if it’s just the nature of the beast. On the cabinet front, totally agree—paint and new knobs are like magic. But do you ever worry about the paint holding up if you skip sanding? I’m always torn between saving time and risking chips later...
But do you ever worry about the paint holding up if you skip sanding? I’m always torn between saving time and risking chips later...
Man, skipping sanding is like playing DIY roulette. I’ve gotten away with it using a really good bonding primer, but sometimes I swear the paint just looks at me funny and flakes off anyway. If you’re in a rush, at least a quick scuff with a sanding sponge helps. And yeah, caulk along the backsplash edges is pretty much my go-to “pretend it’s all fine” move.
Honestly, I get the temptation to skip sanding—nobody wants to spend an hour covered in dust. But every time I’ve tried to cut that corner, I end up regretting it. Even with “miracle” primers, I’ve had paint peel off cabinet doors after a few months. A quick scuff with 220-grit makes a huge difference, especially if you’re dealing with glossy surfaces. It’s not glamorous, but it beats having to redo everything later. Caulk is great for hiding gaps, but it won’t save you from flaking paint... learned that the hard way.
Skipping sanding is one of those shortcuts that always comes back to bite you, especially on cabinets or trim. I’ve had clients swear by those “no-prep” paints and primers, but a year later, I’m getting calls about chipping or peeling. It’s just not worth the gamble. Like you said, a quick scuff with 220-grit can save a ton of headaches down the line. I’d rather spend an extra hour up front than have to strip and repaint everything six months later.
On the budget side, though, I’ve found there are places where you can cut corners without sacrificing quality. For example, swapping out hardware—drawer pulls, hinges, even light switch covers—can make a room feel fresh without much investment. Sometimes I’ll even hit up the local Habitat ReStore for gently used stuff. You’d be surprised what people donate.
I’m curious, has anyone tried painting over laminate cabinets? I’ve seen mixed results. Some folks swear by the right primer and a light sand, others say it’s a lost cause. Personally, I’ve had decent luck with a good bonding primer and a couple coats of enamel, but only after a thorough sanding. Wondering if anyone’s found a hack that actually holds up over time, or if it’s just better to save up for new doors.
It’s just not worth the gamble. Like you said, a quick scuff with 220-grit can save a ton of headaches down the line.
I tried painting over my old laminate bathroom vanity last year. I did the whole “light sand and bonding primer” routine, but honestly, it still chipped around the handles after a few months. Maybe I didn’t sand enough? Or maybe my kids are just too rough. Either way, I’m starting to think you’re right—sometimes it’s just not worth the shortcut.
But swapping out hardware is a game changer. Found some cool vintage knobs at the thrift store for like a buck each and it made the whole thing look intentional, even with the chips.
