Paint vs. Conversion Varnish: Why We Choose ML Campbell
One of the most common questions we hear from homeowners is, “Why don’t you use popular paint brands like Sherwin-Williams or Benjamin Moore on your cabinets?” While these brands are well-known and widely used for interior walls and trim, they are not formulated for cabinetry finishes—and that distinction matters more than most people realize.
At SWFL Custom Cabinetry, we exclusively use ML Campbell’s conversion varnish system for our painted cabinetry. Why? Because cabinetry is subject to constant wear, moisture, and cleaning, and it demands a finish that not only looks stunning but also performs under pressure.
Not All Paints Are Created Equal
Homeowners are often surprised to learn that the paint used on walls or trim is vastly different from the coatings used by cabinet professionals. For example, Benjamin Moore’s Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel is commonly marketed for cabinetry and millwork. While it can be used on cabinets in residential settings, it is still a water-based trim paint, not a high-performance wood coating.
Some of the common issues with residential paints include:
Longer cure times that leave cabinetry vulnerable for weeks
Limited resistance to water, cleaning agents, and abrasion
Poor touch-up blending, with visible differences in finish sheen
Chipping or cracking with daily use over time
Less color stability in high UV or humidity environments
Paint might be fine for bedroom walls—but when it comes to kitchen cabinets, durability is non-negotiable.
Why We Use ML Campbell Conversion Varnish
ML Campbell’s conversion varnish is a professional-grade, two-component catalyzed finish specifically designed for wood cabinetry and millwork. It chemically cures into a hardened, moisture-resistant coating that outperforms traditional paints in every category that matters.
Benefits of ML Campbell conversion varnish include:
Superior chemical and moisture resistance for kitchens, baths, and laundry rooms
Hard, durable surface that resists scratches, stains, and daily wear
Silky smooth finish with excellent leveling and depth
Outstanding color retention, even in direct sunlight
Fast and complete cure for quicker installation and less downtime
At SWFL Custom Cabinetry, every painted cabinet is finished in-house using professional spray systems in a controlled environment. We apply multiple coats, each carefully sanded and cured for an ultra-smooth, factory-quality finish. Our process ensures that your cabinetry looks and performs beautifully—not just on day one, but for years to come.