Worn, scratched or dull cabinet surfaces brought back to a consistent, shellac finish, without replacing the wood.
What Goes Wrong
Applying a new finish over an unstable old one traps moisture and causes the coating to peel within months.
The existing coating is tested for adhesion and stability before any new material goes on, so the new finish bonds properly.
Spot repairs that skip colour matching leave visible patches that stand out more than the original damage did.
Colour correction with stain is carried out at the preparation stage so doors and drawer fronts read as one consistent surface.
Heavy abrasives on veneered doors remove material quickly but leave scratches that show through the finished coats.
Abrasives are stepped down in sequence, finishing fine enough that shellac coats lie flat without filling visible scratch lines.
Applying shellac in heavy coats causes runs, clouding and an uneven sheen that is difficult to correct without stripping back.
Shellac is applied by pad in thin coats, each allowed to stabilise before the next, building a clear and even finish throughout.
Scope of Work
From a single scratched door to a full fitted unit, the scope is set by what the wood and finish actually need.
Dull, scratched or water-marked solid wood and veneered doors are sanded back, colour matched and refinished with shellac.
Side panels, cornices and end sections are prepared and finished to match the rest of the unit for a consistent result.
Surface marks, peeling coatings and colour loss on drawer fronts are repaired and blended before finish coats are applied.
Sideboards, display cabinets and storage units are assessed, spot-repaired and refinished using traditional French polishing methods.
Lifting, bubbling or damaged veneer is re-adhered and filled, then colour matched so the repair does not read as a patch.
White rings and moisture marks treated before refinishing.
Old or peeling coatings removed cleanly before new work starts.
Localised damage addressed without refinishing the whole piece.
Written care notes provided on completion of every job.
Assess Before Finishing
The condition of the wood underneath the existing finish determines what restoration work is actually needed.
The starting point is always an assessment of the existing finish and the wood beneath it. A cabinet door that looks dull or scratched may only need the surface cleaned, lightly abraded and revived with shellac. One with peeling lacquer, deep water marks or colour loss needs the old finish sanded back before any new coats go on. Identifying which situation applies before agreeing a scope avoids unnecessary work and keeps costs proportionate to the actual damage.
Once the preparation stage is complete, sanding, filling, staining where the colour needs correcting, shellac is applied by pad in thin coats. Each coat is worked into the surface and allowed to stabilise before the next is added. Colour matching is carried out at the preparation stage so the finished doors and drawer fronts read as consistent rather than patchy across a fitted unit.
Period and older Essex homes often have fitted or freestanding wooden cabinets with original finishes that are worth preserving rather than painting over or replacing. A written quote covering the scope, timings and aftercare guidance is provided after inspection, so the decision to restore rather than replace is made on clear information.
Why Choose Us
Specific reasons this job is handled carefully, from first assessment through to aftercare.
The scope is set after inspecting the actual piece, so you are not quoted for work the cabinet does not need.
Every quote is written, covers timings and aftercare, and carries no obligation to proceed.
Work is carried out at your property or the cabinet is collected, depending on what suits the job and your schedule.
Shellac is applied by hand pad using the same method used on architectural woodwork and period furniture.
Written aftercare notes are provided with every finished job so the surface stays in good condition long term.
How It Works
01
Share photos of the cabinet or arrange a visit so the condition of the finish and wood can be assessed accurately.
02
A free written quote is provided covering the scope of work, timings and aftercare guidance before anything is agreed.
03
Work is completed on-site or in the workshop, and the finished cabinet is returned with written aftercare notes.
Pricing Estimates
| Job | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Minor cabinet refurbishment | £100-£200 |
| Cabinet door replacement | £300-£400 |
| Sideboard restoration | £350-£700 |
| Full cabinet restoration | £550-£1000 |
“Mark done a brilliant job repairing damaged concrete above our front door. Very trustworthy and reliable.”
“Presto Repairs is an absolute miracle worker when it comes to cosmetic repairs. I’ve used his services multiple times, and he consistently delivers perfect results at a fair price. He’s tackled everything in my home - from dog-chewed wood trim that now looks brand new, to a chipped fireplace surround that’s been flawlessly restored. The bathroom tile repair he completed is seamless - you’d never know there was damage there. Even outdoor items exposed to the elements have been brought back to life under his skilled hands. What sets Presto Repairs apart is his versatility and attention to detail. No matter the material or the extent of damage, he approaches each job with the same level of care and precision. If you have any cosmetic repairs needed around your home, I can’t recommend Presto Repairs highly enough. He’s responsive, professional, and truly talented at what he does. Five stars!”
A Learmouth6 months ago“Absolutely incredible. Mark repaired our kitchen cabinet and I had no idea this was going to be repaired to look good as new! I’m very impressed, Mark was brilliant and has fantastic customer service skills. We will be using again if necessary and will be recommending to anyone in need of repairs!”
Gemma Abbey11 months ago“Exceptional Service from Start to Finish! I had a damaged kitchen unit that needed repairing, and I’m so glad I found Presto Repairs. From the moment I spoke to Mark, I felt confident I was in good hands. He was friendly, professional, and incredibly helpful throughout the whole process. Mark took the time to explain exactly what needed doing and gave honest advice without any pressure. The repair was carried out with genuine care and precision. It’s clear they take pride in their work and do things properly. The price to value was a no brainer for me, too. What stood out to me was the trust and honesty. It’s rare to find tradespeople who are this reliable and easy to deal with. Mark was approachable, respectful, and genuinely wanted to help, not just get the job done. My kitchen unit looks new again, and I wouldn’t hesitate to use Presto Repairs again. If you’re looking for someone skilled, trustworthy, and a pleasure to deal with, Mark is the person you’ve been looking for and highly recommended!”
Yau - ken Huynha year ago“Fantastic support right from the off. Quick response to initial query. A phone call to explain what could be done, the reason for the proposed solution and an accurate fee quote. The work was of the highest standard. Mark was a great communicator, timely and professional throughout. Highly recommended”
Iain Keith Daw12 months agoAll reviews are genuine, sourced from our Google Business Profile.
Send photos or arrange an inspection and we will provide a free written quote with scope, timings and aftercare guidance.