Pros and Cons of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
Here’s how to tell if this popular remodeling project is right for you
Highlights
Refacing kitchen cabinets can be less expensive than replacing them.
Most projects cost between $4,235 and $10,200.
Refacing cabinets can increase the value of your home.
Are you cooking up the idea of a new look for your kitchen cabinets but don't want to face the expense of replacing them? Refacing your cabinets is another way to update your kitchen. However, it's best to know the pros and cons of refacing kitchen cabinets before you jump into the project. Our guide will help you decide if it's the right decision for your kitchen and budget.
What Is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?
Refacing kitchen cabinets involves covering the existing frames, doors, and drawer fronts with a new veneer. You may choose to swap out the hardware, too. But the existing layout of your cabinets will stay the same.
Refacing kitchen cabinets is a different process than refinishing them. Refinishing kitchen cabinets consists of changing the look of your existing cabinets by staining or painting them a different color. This is a more budget-friendly option, but both are typically cheaper than a full kitchen cabinet replacement.
What are the Pros and Cons of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets?
It's always good to know the pros and cons before you tackle any renovation or remodeling project. Check out the pros and cons of refacing kitchen cabinets to ensure it's the right choice for your kitchen.
Pros of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
Simpler than buying new cabinets: Refacing kitchen cabinets can be easier than having them replaced. You can completely change the look of your kitchen without dealing with the time it would take to order and install new cabinets.
Can increase your home's value: An updated kitchen may increase the resale value of your home. After all, the kitchen is often the room that ends up making or breaking a potential sale.
Variety of looks to choose from: Whether you prefer a traditional style kitchen or crave something a bit more rustic, there are plenty of materials to choose from to get the look you want. Keep in mind that the style can significantly impact the price, so you’ll need to shop within your budget.
Your kitchen layout stays intact: If you love your kitchen layout and it suits your needs, then refacing kitchen cabinets is the perfect way to upgrade your space without changing the floor plan.
Cons of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
Usually costs more than refinishing: Although refacing can be cheaper than replacing cabinets, it can get costly quickly, especially if you opt for higher-end materials. Refinishing with a new stain or paint, meanwhile, can renew your cabinets without the high price tag.
Doesn't update your floor plan: Your cabinets might look better, but if your kitchen isn’t meeting your culinary needs, then refacing may not be the best choice. If you are cramped for space or feel your kitchen layout is all wrong, you may want to opt for a remodel with new cabinets instead.
Not a good option if cabinets have damage: If your cabinets are damaged beyond the doors, then you may want to replace them instead. Refacing is not ideal for cabinets that have structural damage.
Cost to Reface Kitchen Cabinets?
The cost to reface kitchen cabinets can vary significantly depending on factors like the materials used and the size of the kitchen. The average cabinet refacing project costs between $4,235 and $10,215.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
After weighing the pros and cons of refacing kitchen cabinets, you need to decide if you are going to do it yourself or hire a pro. This is a time-consuming and tedious project, so keep that in mind when deciding if you want to try refacing kitchen cabinets yourself. Also, supplies and materials can get expensive fast. That said, DIY kitchen cabinet refacing is significantly cheaper than hiring a pro. The job can be done for less than $1,000. Expenses usually cost between $100 and $500, depending on the tools and supplies needed; that may include items like a circular saw, shop vac, and laminate cutter.
If you are an advanced DIYer with solid experience, you may be able to tackle this task on your own. Otherwise, hiring a local cabinet refacing company can free up your time and ensure the job is done right.
Frequently Asked Questions
Deciding whether you should reface or replace your kitchen cabinets depends on many factors. For instance, if your cabinets are structurally sound but you want to update the look of your kitchen, then you may opt for refacing them. However, if you don't like your kitchen's design and want it to be more functional, then you may want to consider replacing your existing cabinets. It's best to get a quote for both to see what will be best for your budget and desired outcome.
Refaced cabinets should last for a minimum of 15 to 20 years. At maximum, it’s reasonable to expect 50 years of use, given proper maintenance. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and a wood-safe solution prevents dust and grime buildup, which is common in the kitchen. Heavy-duty stains may need a combination of water and baking soda to remove. Limiting heat and humidity from contacting your cabinets is another tip for extending their life span. Finally, repairing any faulty hardware or cracks ensures decades of use.
You can help keep costs lower when refacing kitchen cabinets by opting for less expensive styles and materials. For example, plastic laminate is more affordable than wood veneer. Choosing less expensive hardware and skipping extras like glass inserts and lights can also save you money. Remember to get several quotes from different cabinet refinishing contractors to get the best price.