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Discover the cost to stain cabinets, including average prices, key cost factors, and tips to help you budget and save on your cabinet staining project.
The Cost of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets vs. Replacing Them
Reface for an easy update or replace for a better long-term investment
Photo: brizmaker / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Photo: brizmaker / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Highlights
Only reface if your cabinet boxes are relatively new or in good condition.
Replacement lets you update your kitchen layout and features.
Refacing costs $900 to $6,000, while replacement costs $2,000 to $30,000.
Kitchen cabinets should last anywhere from 20 to 50 years.
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When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Despite the pros of refacing cabinets, there are some instances in which cabinet replacement is the better option.
Cabinets Are Damaged or Showing Signs of Age
If your cabinets are seriously damaged, have mold or mildew growth, or are crooked, these are all signs that it's time to replace them. Problems like stuck drawers can also begin to occur, impacting the function of your kitchen and making it overall less enjoyable to use.
You Want to Improve Layout, Features, or Function
If your kitchen layout isn't quite what you want, new cabinets allow you to change the entire layout. Create more storage, add deeper drawers or pull-out shelves where you need them most, and include specialized features such as spice racks, dividers, mixer lifts, and lighting.
You Have the Budget for a Long-Term Investment
Cabinets last for many decades when properly cared for. The average ROI for a kitchen remodel is up to 96%, helping to increase your home's value while also providing you with long-term enjoyment for as long as you remain in your home.
Cabinets Are More than 20 Years Old
Because the average lifespan of kitchen cabinets is 20 to 50 years, cabinets that pass the 20-year mark are good candidates for replacement. One problem with refacing old cabinets is that while it may provide short-term benefits, those cabinets will still eventually require replacement. If you replace your cabinets the first time, they can end up lasting you a lifetime.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
DIY kitchen cabinet installation is possible, but it involves a steep learning curve. You'll need at least one other person to assist you, and you'll need many tools and fine-tuned measurement and carpentry skills. To save yourself the hassle and to avoid the increased risk of installation mistakes, hire a local cabinet contractor to handle the job for you.
When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Despite the pros of refacing cabinets, there are some instances in which cabinet replacement is the better option.
Cabinets Are Damaged or Showing Signs of Age
If your cabinets are seriously damaged, have mold or mildew growth, or are crooked, these are all signs that it's time to replace them. Problems like stuck drawers can also begin to occur, impacting the function of your kitchen and making it overall less enjoyable to use.
You Want to Improve Layout, Features, or Function
If your kitchen layout isn't quite what you want, new cabinets allow you to change the entire layout. Create more storage, add deeper drawers or pull-out shelves where you need them most, and include specialized features such as spice racks, dividers, mixer lifts, and lighting.
You Have the Budget for a Long-Term Investment
Cabinets last for many decades when properly cared for. The average ROI for a kitchen remodel is up to 96%, helping to increase your home's value while also providing you with long-term enjoyment for as long as you remain in your home.
Cabinets Are More than 20 Years Old
Because the average lifespan of kitchen cabinets is 20 to 50 years, cabinets that pass the 20-year mark are good candidates for replacement. One problem with refacing old cabinets is that while it may provide short-term benefits, those cabinets will still eventually require replacement. If you replace your cabinets the first time, they can end up lasting you a lifetime.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
DIY kitchen cabinet installation is possible, but it involves a steep learning curve. You'll need at least one other person to assist you, and you'll need many tools and fine-tuned measurement and carpentry skills. To save yourself the hassle and to avoid the increased risk of installation mistakes, hire a local cabinet contractor to handle the job for you.
When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Despite the pros of refacing cabinets, there are some instances in which cabinet replacement is the better option.
Cabinets Are Damaged or Showing Signs of Age
If your cabinets are seriously damaged, have mold or mildew growth, or are crooked, these are all signs that it's time to replace them. Problems like stuck drawers can also begin to occur, impacting the function of your kitchen and making it overall less enjoyable to use.
You Want to Improve Layout, Features, or Function
If your kitchen layout isn't quite what you want, new cabinets allow you to change the entire layout. Create more storage, add deeper drawers or pull-out shelves where you need them most, and include specialized features such as spice racks, dividers, mixer lifts, and lighting.
You Have the Budget for a Long-Term Investment
Cabinets last for many decades when properly cared for. The average ROI for a kitchen remodel is up to 96%, helping to increase your home's value while also providing you with long-term enjoyment for as long as you remain in your home.
Cabinets Are More than 20 Years Old
Because the average lifespan of kitchen cabinets is 20 to 50 years, cabinets that pass the 20-year mark are good candidates for replacement. One problem with refacing old cabinets is that while it may provide short-term benefits, those cabinets will still eventually require replacement. If you replace your cabinets the first time, they can end up lasting you a lifetime.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
DIY kitchen cabinet installation is possible, but it involves a steep learning curve. You'll need at least one other person to assist you, and you'll need many tools and fine-tuned measurement and carpentry skills. To save yourself the hassle and to avoid the increased risk of installation mistakes, hire a local cabinet contractor to handle the job for you.
| Reface | Replace |
|---|---|
| Your cabinet boxes are still in good condition | Your cabinets are damaged or showing signs of age |
| You're happy with your current cabinet layout | You want to change or improve your cabinet layout, features, or functionality |
| You have a tight budget but still want an update | You have a more flexible budget and want to make a long-term investment |
| Your cabinets are less than 20 years old | Your cabinets are more than 20 years old |
When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Despite the pros of refacing cabinets, there are some instances in which cabinet replacement is the better option.
Cabinets Are Damaged or Showing Signs of Age
If your cabinets are seriously damaged, have mold or mildew growth, or are crooked, these are all signs that it's time to replace them. Problems like stuck drawers can also begin to occur, impacting the function of your kitchen and making it overall less enjoyable to use.
You Want to Improve Layout, Features, or Function
If your kitchen layout isn't quite what you want, new cabinets allow you to change the entire layout. Create more storage, add deeper drawers or pull-out shelves where you need them most, and include specialized features such as spice racks, dividers, mixer lifts, and lighting.
You Have the Budget for a Long-Term Investment
Cabinets last for many decades when properly cared for. The average ROI for a kitchen remodel is up to 96%, helping to increase your home's value while also providing you with long-term enjoyment for as long as you remain in your home.
Cabinets Are More than 20 Years Old
Because the average lifespan of kitchen cabinets is 20 to 50 years, cabinets that pass the 20-year mark are good candidates for replacement. One problem with refacing old cabinets is that while it may provide short-term benefits, those cabinets will still eventually require replacement. If you replace your cabinets the first time, they can end up lasting you a lifetime.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
DIY kitchen cabinet installation is possible, but it involves a steep learning curve. You'll need at least one other person to assist you, and you'll need many tools and fine-tuned measurement and carpentry skills. To save yourself the hassle and to avoid the increased risk of installation mistakes, hire a local cabinet contractor to handle the job for you.
When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Despite the pros of refacing cabinets, there are some instances in which cabinet replacement is the better option.
Cabinets Are Damaged or Showing Signs of Age
If your cabinets are seriously damaged, have mold or mildew growth, or are crooked, these are all signs that it's time to replace them. Problems like stuck drawers can also begin to occur, impacting the function of your kitchen and making it overall less enjoyable to use.
You Want to Improve Layout, Features, or Function
If your kitchen layout isn't quite what you want, new cabinets allow you to change the entire layout. Create more storage, add deeper drawers or pull-out shelves where you need them most, and include specialized features such as spice racks, dividers, mixer lifts, and lighting.
You Have the Budget for a Long-Term Investment
Cabinets last for many decades when properly cared for. The average ROI for a kitchen remodel is up to 96%, helping to increase your home's value while also providing you with long-term enjoyment for as long as you remain in your home.
Cabinets Are More than 20 Years Old
Because the average lifespan of kitchen cabinets is 20 to 50 years, cabinets that pass the 20-year mark are good candidates for replacement. One problem with refacing old cabinets is that while it may provide short-term benefits, those cabinets will still eventually require replacement. If you replace your cabinets the first time, they can end up lasting you a lifetime.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
DIY kitchen cabinet installation is possible, but it involves a steep learning curve. You'll need at least one other person to assist you, and you'll need many tools and fine-tuned measurement and carpentry skills. To save yourself the hassle and to avoid the increased risk of installation mistakes, hire a local cabinet contractor to handle the job for you.
When to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Despite the pros of refacing cabinets, there are some instances in which cabinet replacement is the better option.
Cabinets Are Damaged or Showing Signs of Age
If your cabinets are seriously damaged, have mold or mildew growth, or are crooked, these are all signs that it's time to replace them. Problems like stuck drawers can also begin to occur, impacting the function of your kitchen and making it overall less enjoyable to use.
You Want to Improve Layout, Features, or Function
If your kitchen layout isn't quite what you want, new cabinets allow you to change the entire layout. Create more storage, add deeper drawers or pull-out shelves where you need them most, and include specialized features such as spice racks, dividers, mixer lifts, and lighting.
You Have the Budget for a Long-Term Investment
Cabinets last for many decades when properly cared for. The average ROI for a kitchen remodel is up to 96%, helping to increase your home's value while also providing you with long-term enjoyment for as long as you remain in your home.
Cabinets Are More than 20 Years Old
Because the average lifespan of kitchen cabinets is 20 to 50 years, cabinets that pass the 20-year mark are good candidates for replacement. One problem with refacing old cabinets is that while it may provide short-term benefits, those cabinets will still eventually require replacement. If you replace your cabinets the first time, they can end up lasting you a lifetime.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro to Replace Kitchen Cabinets
DIY kitchen cabinet installation is possible, but it involves a steep learning curve. You'll need at least one other person to assist you, and you'll need many tools and fine-tuned measurement and carpentry skills. To save yourself the hassle and to avoid the increased risk of installation mistakes, hire a local cabinet contractor to handle the job for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
The homeowners guide to cabinet refacing and refinishing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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