Planning to refinish your kitchen cabinets or staircase? Find clear answers about Handily's services, materials, estimates and project process. Handily has served homeowners since 2010 across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Milton, Burlington and Guelph.

 

GENERAL QUESTIONS

• How long has Handily been in business?
Handily has served homeowners since 2010. Our years of hands-on experience give clients confidence that their project is being handled by an established local contractor.

• What areas do you serve?
Handily serves Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Milton, Burlington and Guelph. Contact us with your project address to confirm availability.

• What services do you specialize in?
Our core services are kitchen cabinet painting and staircase refinishing. We also offer deck repairs and staining, interior painting, carpentry and general home repairs.

• How do I request an estimate?
Use the online estimate form, call or text 416-418-9489, or email handyman@handily.ca. Include your location, a short description of the work and clear photos so we can understand the project.

• Can you help me choose colours and materials?
Yes. Colour and material selection are important parts of the result, and Handily provides a free consultation to help you make a confident choice.

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CABINET PAINTING

• How much does cabinet painting cost?
The price depends on the number of doors and drawers, the condition of the surfaces, repairs, colour changes, the island and the required finish. After reviewing the project, we provide a written estimate for the agreed scope. If you need a quick estimate, please use our instant online cost calculator below:

 CABINET PAINTING ESTIMATE CALCULATOR 

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• How long does cabinet painting take?
Timing varies with the size of the kitchen, surface condition, preparation and drying requirements. Your expected schedule will be discussed before work begins.

• What type of paint do you use on kitchen cabinets?
The coating depends on the surface and the finish you want. Handily uses specialty cabinet coatings from professional brands such as Renner and Envirolak.

• Do you use primer on kitchen cabinets?
Yes. We use a specialty bonding primer designed to help with adhesion and to block stains and odours where needed.

• Do you use oil-based paint on cabinets?
No. Handily uses water-based cabinet coatings rather than oil-based paint, with consideration for the home environment and the people living in it.

• Why paint existing kitchen cabinets instead of replacing them?
If the cabinet boxes and doors are in suitable condition, painting can update the kitchen while keeping the existing layout. We assess the surfaces first and explain whether refinishing is a practical option.

• Can I choose a cabinet colour from a website or phone screen?
You can use online colours for inspiration, but screens do not show paint colours accurately. Review physical colour swatches in your kitchen and check them under the room's natural and artificial light.

• What affects the final appearance of painted cabinets?
The existing material, grain, previous coatings, damage and surface condition all affect the final look. Preparation and the coating system are chosen after the cabinets are assessed.

 

STAIRCASE REFINISHING

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• Can an old staircase be refinished instead of replaced?
Yes. Refinishing and repairing existing stairs can be a practical way to update their appearance. We first assess the wood, existing finish and condition before recommending the scope.

• How much does staircase refinishing cost?
Cost depends on the size and design of the staircase, its current condition, the amount of repair and preparation, and the selected finish. A written estimate is provided after the project is reviewed. If you need a quick estimate, please use our instant online cost calculator below:

 STAIRCASE REFINISHING ESTIMATE CALCULATOR 

• What can staircase refinishing include?
Staircase refinishing can include protecting the area around the stairs, completely sanding away the existing finish on the surfaces to be stained, cleaning away the dust, and checking for any spots that need more sanding. We then apply the stain and a protective clear coating. Next, we apply bonding primer and scuff-resistant paint to the risers, spindles and stringers in an accent colour of your choice. As the final step, we clean the area thoroughly.

• How long does staircase refinishing take?
The schedule depends on the staircase, preparation, repairs, coating system and drying time. We discuss timing and access before the project begins.

• Can I combine staircase refinishing with cabinet painting?
Yes. The projects can be planned together or completed in stages. A clear scope helps you prioritize the work and budget without doing everything at once.

• Can you help choose a stain or paint colour for my stairs?
Yes. We can help you compare colour and material options that work with your flooring, railings, walls and the overall style of your home.

 

PROJECT TERMS

• Will I receive a written contract?
Yes. The project details are documented in a Handily contract, which may be electronic or printed. Any additional work must also be documented.

• Is an upfront payment required?
Yes. A deposit is required, with the amount and payment schedule depending on the size and nature of the project. The terms are explained before the contract is signed.

• What payment methods do you accept?
Handily accepts cash, debit card, certified cheque, credit card and e-transfer. Ask about any applicable card fee before signing.

• Can I use my own contract?
Handily provides the contract for the project. The terms and conditions will be explained, and you can ask questions or discuss concerns before signing.

• What happens if the scope changes?
Any additional work should be reviewed and added to the contract. This keeps the price, responsibilities and project details clear for everyone.

• Can I help with the work to reduce the price?
Handily completes the agreed work and remains accountable for the result. For quality control and a clear division of responsibility, homeowners should leave the project work to our team.

• Do you perform electrical or plumbing work that requires a licence?
No. We do not perform work that must legally be completed by a licensed professional. We will not put a homeowner at risk by taking on work outside our training or licensing.