Refacing vs. Replacing Kitchen Cabinets: What to Know

12 Min Read

I’m here to help you navigate the world of kitchen renovation. Cabinet makeovers are key in changing your space. I’ll share insights on refacing versus replacing kitchen cabinets. This choice affects your budget and the project’s outcome.

Refacing is a budget-friendly option, costing between $4,495 and $10,558¹. This depends on materials and the number of cabinets. In contrast, a full replacement costs between $14,608 and $41,376¹. This price gap makes refacing appealing for homeowners wanting an update without spending a lot.

Refacing is efficient, taking 3 to 5 days¹. Full replacement can take about 6 weeks¹. This means less disruption to your life. Refacing also produces less mess and waste than a full overhaul¹.

Joe Maykut from Sears Home Services says refacing is a smart way to update cabinets without a big expense². It involves replacing doors and drawer fronts, saving on labor and materials².

Refacing can save you up to 75% compared to a full remodel³². But, it’s not always the best choice. If your cabinets don’t work well or are poorly made, refacing won’t help. In such cases, a full replacement might be better.

Key Takeaways

Cabinet refacing costs 30% to 50% less than replacing custom or semi-custom cabinets.
Refacing takes 3-5 days, while replacement can take up to 6 weeks.
Refacing creates less mess and waste than full replacement.
Replacement offers more design options and customization features.
Consider your cabinet’s structural integrity before deciding to reface.

Understanding Cabinet Refacing: A Cost-Effective Solution

Cabinet refacing is a budget-friendly way to update your kitchen. It makes your cabinets look new without replacing them entirely.

What is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing means updating the parts of your cabinets you see. We add new veneer to the frames and swap out doors and drawer fronts. It’s perfect for cabinets that look old but are still sturdy.

The Process of Cabinet Refacing

First, we take off the old doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. Then, we cover the cabinet boxes with new veneer. Finally, we put in new doors, drawer fronts, and hardware upgrades. This whole process usually takes 2-5 days, making your kitchen look new in a week⁴.

Cost Comparison: Refacing vs. Replacement

Refacing is cheaper than fully replacing cabinets. It saves money on materials and labor, cutting costs by about 50%⁵. For those watching their budget, refacing is a smart choice. It gives your kitchen a new look without the high cost.

Aspect	Refacing	Replacement
Cost	50% cheaper	More expensive
Time	3-5 days	Weeks to months
Environmental Impact	More eco-friendly	Generates more waste

Refacing not only saves money but also time. Full cabinet replacement can take weeks or months, but refacing is done in just 3-5 days⁵. This fast process means less time out of your kitchen, making it great for busy homes.

Pros and Cons of Cabinet Refacing

Cabinet refacing is a great way to update your kitchen without spending a lot. It’s 30% to 50% cheaper than replacing your cabinets completely⁶⁷. This makes it perfect for those watching their budget.

One big plus is how affordable it is. You can spend between $100 to $200 per linear foot for laminate finishes. Real wood veneers are a bit pricier, at about $455 per linear foot⁶⁷. This means you can save a lot compared to fully replacing your cabinets.

Another benefit is its durability. With proper care, the veneers can last 15 to 20 years⁶⁷. Plus, the doors work better since they’re replaced, and drawers might get a tune-up too⁶.

However, refacing isn’t perfect. It won’t fix structural problems or change your cabinet layout. It’s best if your cabinets are in good shape and you like how they’re arranged⁷. Also, it won’t give you more storage or improve the inside of your cabinets.

Pros	Cons
Cost-effective (30-50% less than replacement)	No structural improvements
Durable (15-20 years lifespan)	No layout changes possible
Improves door function	Doesn’t increase storage space
Eco-friendly option	Limited DIY options

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DIY project, consider cabinet refinishing. It’s cheaper than refacing and helps the environment by recycling materials⁶. Think about these points to see if cabinet refacing fits your kitchen update plans.

Evaluating Your Cabinets: Are They Suitable for Refacing?

Before starting a cabinet refacing project, it’s key to check your cabinets closely. This check-up helps figure out if refacing is a good fit for your kitchen.

Structural Integrity Requirements

For a successful cabinet refacing, your cabinets need a strong base. They should be built with plywood or MDF panels. Also, they should have smooth sides and be in good shape. If they match these requirements, you’re on the right path.

Aesthetic Considerations

Refacing can give your kitchen a new look without the high cost of replacing everything. It’s perfect if you like your kitchen’s layout but want a new look. Refacing can save you up to 50% compared to full replacement⁸. This way, you get a new look without spending too much.

Functional Aspects to Assess

Don’t forget to check how your cabinets work. Make sure the inside hardware is working well. If your cabinets are new and in good shape, you might not need to refinish them⁹. But, updating the hardware and lights can boost your home’s value by up to 80% of what you spent⁸.

About 70% of homeowners who refaced their cabinets were happy with the outcome⁸. By looking at your cabinets’ strength, looks, and how they work, you can decide if refacing is the best choice for your kitchen update.

The Cabinet Refacing Process: Step-by-Step Guide

Many homeowners have refreshed their kitchens with cabinet refacing. This process updates your space without the cost of full replacement. Let’s explore the steps involved in this cabinet makeover.

First, we take out all hardware and remove cabinet doors and drawers. Then, we clean and sand the cabinet boxes for the new veneer. Cutting and sticking on the new material is a detailed task that needs patience and care¹⁰.

After the veneer is on, we put in new door and drawer fronts. These are made to fit your style. Finally, we add new hardware to finish the look. The whole refacing usually takes about two days for a typical kitchen¹¹.

Refacing is often cheaper than replacing cabinets. You might spend between $4,000 and $9,000 for a standard kitchen¹². This can extend your cabinets’ life by about 20 years, making it a wise choice¹².

While you can try DIY kits, I suggest hiring pros for the best outcome. Cabinet refacing needs special skills and experience, especially with veneers. Without experience, doing it yourself could lead to expensive errors¹².

Refacing isn’t right for every kitchen. If your cabinets have big problems or are over 15 years old, replacing them might be better¹⁰. Always check your cabinets’ condition before starting a refacing project.

Professional vs. DIY Cabinet Refacing: What to Consider

Updating your kitchen can be done affordably with cabinet refacing. Let’s look at the pros and cons of professional cabinet services versus DIY refacing. This will help you decide what’s best for you.

Skills Required for Cabinet Refacing

For professional cabinet services, you need skills in veneering and installing correctly. DIY refacing is doable with kits but requires precision and patience. It can extend your cabinets’ life by up to 20 years, making it a smart choice¹².

Tools and Materials Needed

DIY refacing means buying new doors, drawer fronts, and veneers. You’ll need tools like a putty knife, sander, and glue. Professionals have the right tools and materials.

Time and Cost Implications

Professional refacing costs between $4,000 and $9,000 for a standard kitchen¹². DIY can save money but takes a lot of time. For those watching their budget, professional services offer great value, saving on labor and materials².

Aspect	DIY Refacing	Professional Services
Cost per Opening	$100 – $150	$200 – $300
Time Investment	High	Low
Skill Level Required	Moderate to High	Professional
Quality Assurance	Variable	Guaranteed

Choosing between DIY refacing and professional services depends on your skills, budget, and time. Meeting with a contractor can help you decide the best way to update your kitchen².

Cabinet Replacement: When It’s the Better Option

Full cabinet replacement is often the top choice for a kitchen remodel if your cabinets have big problems. Refacing can save money, but it’s not always the best option. Let’s look at when replacing cabinets is the better choice.

The cost to replace cabinets is between $14,608 and $41,376, based on the kitchen size and materials¹. This big investment gives your kitchen a full makeover and fixes structural issues. Cabinets replaced about 50 years ago are still going strong, showing they’re a solid choice for your kitchen¹³.

Here are key situations where I suggest full cabinet replacement:

Structural damage: Cabinets damaged by water or broken parts need to be replaced, not just refinished.
Layout changes: If you’re changing your kitchen’s layout, new cabinets let you start fresh.
Outdated functionality: New cabinets bring modern storage solutions and features.
Design freedom: Replacing cabinets gives you more style and material choices than refacing¹³.

Replacing cabinets usually takes about 6 weeks, while refacing takes only 3-5 days. But, replacement offers a complete solution¹. If your cabinets are too damaged or you’re planning a big kitchen remodel, replacing them is usually the smarter choice.

Refacing doesn’t fix deep problems. It might be cheaper upfront but could mean replacing cabinets again later because of the original structure’s wear¹³. Think about your long-term goals when deciding between refacing and full cabinet replacement for your kitchen update.

Refacing vs. Replacing Kitchen Cabinets: What to Know

When thinking about redoing your kitchen, deciding between refacing and replacing cabinets is key. We’ll look at the long-term value, how it changes your kitchen’s layout, and eco-friendly aspects of both options.

Comparing Long-Term Value

Kitchen cabinets usually last about 20 years, making their durability important in your choice¹⁴. Refacing is a budget-friendly option, with materials costing roughly $50 per door and $30 per drawer front¹⁴. The total cost for refacing, including labor, averages $220 per door, while replacing a cabinet box with labor can be $500-650¹⁴.

Impact on Kitchen Layout and Functionality

Refacing keeps your current layout, perfect for kitchens that work well as they are. It’s fast, taking only 2-5 days to finish⁴. On the other hand, replacing cabinets gives you more flexibility but takes longer, about 2 weeks for labor and 8 weeks for custom production⁴. This longer time lets you make big changes and improve how your kitchen works.

Environmental Considerations

For those focusing on eco-friendly remodeling, refacing is often the better choice. It reduces waste by keeping the cabinet boxes you already have. But, if you’re replacing cabinets, think about donating or reusing old cabinet boxes to lessen environmental impact⁴. This way, your kitchen renovation supports sustainable practices.

Aspect	Refacing	Replacing
Cost	30-50% less than replacing	Higher initial investment
Time	2-5 days	2 weeks + 8 weeks production
Layout Changes	Limited	Extensive possibilities
Eco-Friendliness	More sustainable	Can be eco-friendly with proper disposal

Think about your kitchen’s current setup and your future needs before making a decision. If your kitchen is already functional and you want a quick, affordable update, refacing is a good choice. But, if you’re looking for big changes or your cabinets are over 10 years old, replacing might be a better long-term option⁴.

Design Options and Trends in Cabinet Refacing

Cabinet refacing can completely change your kitchen’s look. Modern designs are now popular, making old spaces look new again. Natural wood and painted cabinets in white, off-white, or gray are leading the trends¹⁵.

Shaker-style doors and drawers are still in style, and two-toned kitchens are adding flair. Open shelving and custom storage are becoming more popular for their mix of style and practicality¹⁵. Refacing is often cheaper than custom or semi-custom options, making it great for those on a budget¹⁵.

You can make your cabinets your own by choosing hardware, paint colors, wood finishes, and door styles. This lets you express your personal style³. Some trendy choices include:

Contrasting hardware for a pop of color
Floor-to-ceiling cabinets for a sleek look
Built-in LED lighting for ambiance
Hidden appliances behind faux cabinet doors¹⁵

Refacing is a smaller project that takes less time and money. This means you can spend more on extras like a new backsplash or flooring³. Costs can range from $10,000 to $15,000 for top-tier refacing, making it a smart choice for a quick kitchen update³¹⁶.

Keeping up with cabinet trends and modern refacing ideas helps you make better choices for your kitchen’s look and function during refacing.

Maintaining Your Refaced Cabinets: Tips for Longevity

Refaced cabinets can last 10 to 20 years or more with the right care. This makes it key to keep them in good shape. Here are some expert tips to help your refaced cabinets look great for years.

Cleaning and Care Instructions

Wood veneer needs a soft cloth with warm water and mild soap for cleaning. Laminate can be cleaned with all-purpose cleaners. Thermofoil requires a soft cloth and warm water for gentle cleaning¹⁷. Don’t use too much moisture, as it can cause swelling, warping, and mold in kitchen cabinets¹⁷.

Addressing Common Issues

Heat and sunlight can make refaced cabinets fade, discolor, and warp¹⁷. Use window coverings or UV-resistant films to protect them. Regular checks help spot small problems early. Tighten loose hinges and oil drawer slides to keep things running smoothly¹⁷.

When to Consider Touch-Ups or Repairs

Fix small scratches and dings right away to keep your refaced cabinets looking good¹⁷. For big damage, get help from a pro. Experts like Cabinet Coatings offer quality work and advice on color, coatings, and durability¹⁸. With the right care and repairs, your refaced cabinets will stay beautiful and useful for many years.

By using these maintenance tips, you’ll keep your refaced cabinets looking good for years¹⁷. Regular care also makes your kitchen look welcoming.

Conclusion

Choosing between refacing and replacing your kitchen cabinets is a big decision. It depends on your budget, how fast you need it done, and what you want to achieve. Professional cabinet refacing can cost between $4,000 to $10,000. Replacing them can cost $12,000 to $25,000 or more¹⁹.

If you’re watching your wallet, refacing is a smart choice. It’s 30-50% cheaper than a full replacement. For an average-sized kitchen, it costs $8,000 to $15,000²⁰. This way, you save money and time, as it only takes 1-3 days to install²⁰.

But, if you want a new kitchen layout or to fix structural issues, replacing cabinets is better. Think about your cabinets’ condition, what changes you want, and how fast you need it done²⁰. The decision between refacing and replacing depends on your needs, goals, and what you hope to gain from the project.

FAQ

What is cabinet refacing?

Cabinet refacing means taking off cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Then, new veneer is put over the old surfaces. It’s a way to make your kitchen cabinets look new without spending a lot.

How much does cabinet refacing cost?

The price for cabinet refacing is between 0 to 5 per linear foot. This is about 30-50% cheaper than fully replacing your cabinets.

What are the pros of cabinet refacing?

Refacing your cabinets keeps your kitchen’s layout the same. It offers many style choices and saves money. Plus, it’s better for the planet since it reduces waste.

What are the cons of cabinet refacing?

The downsides include not improving the cabinet’s structure or adding more storage. The inside of the cabinets stays the same. Some people might not be able to do it themselves.

When is cabinet refacing a suitable option?

It’s best for cabinets that are in good shape but need a new look. It doesn’t work if they have structural problems or need a new layout.

What are the requirements for cabinets to be suitable for refacing?

Cabinets need to be strong, made of plywood or MDF, and have smooth surfaces. They should also have working hardware inside.

How does the cabinet refacing process work?

First, remove fixtures and take off the doors and drawers. Then, cover the cabinet boxes and sides with veneer or thermofoil. Next, put back the hinges and hardware if needed. Finally, install new doors and drawer fronts, and add new hardware on the outside.

What skills are required for cabinet refacing?

You need skills in veneering and installing correctly for professional refacing. DIY kits are available for those with the right skills and tools.

When is cabinet replacement a better option?

Replace your cabinets if they have structural issues or lack storage. If you want a new layout, it’s also a good time to customize fully and fix all problems.

How long do refaced cabinets typically last?

With the right care and maintenance, refaced cabinets can last 15-20 years. Keeping them clean and fixing any issues quickly can make them last even longer.