When my husband and I bought our first home, we knew we wanted to update the kitchen. However, a full kitchen remodel was out of our budget. That’s when we learned about cabinet refacing. Cabinet refacing is a process where the existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts are removed and replaced with new ones. The cabinet frames are then covered with a thin veneer, and new hardware is added. It’s a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh look without the expense of a full remodel.
How Much Does It Cost to Reface Kitchen Cabinets?
The cost of cabinet refacing can vary depending on a few factors, such as the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and the complexity of the job. On average, you can expect to spend between $3,000 and $9,000 for a professional cabinet refacing job. However, if you have basic carpentry skills, you can save money by doing it yourself. DIY cabinet refacing kits start at around $200.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cabinet Refacing
If you decide to tackle cabinet refacing yourself, here’s a basic step-by-step guide:
- Remove the cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
- Clean the cabinet frames and sand them lightly.
- Apply the veneer to the cabinet frames using an adhesive.
- Install the new cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
- Install new hardware.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Cabinet Refacing
- Choose a color and style that complements your kitchen’s overall design.
- Consider adding glass inserts to some of the cabinet doors for a more modern look.
- Upgrade your hardware to add a touch of elegance.
- Don’t forget to reface the sides of your cabinets for a cohesive look.
- Consider adding crown molding to the top of your cabinets for a more custom look.
- Think about adding under-cabinet lighting to highlight your new cabinet doors.
- Consider adding pull-out shelves or other organizational features while you’re refacing your cabinets.
- Add a touch of personality with decorative panels or trim.
- Opt for high-quality materials that will stand the test of time.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match styles for a unique look.
Pros and Cons of Cabinet Refacing
As with any home improvement project, there are pros and cons to cabinet refacing.
Pros:
- Cabinet refacing is less expensive than a full kitchen remodel.
- It’s a quick process, with most refacing jobs taking only a few days.
- You can still use your kitchen during the refacing process.
- It’s an eco-friendly option, as you’re not tearing out and replacing entire cabinets.
Cons:
- Refacing won’t fix any underlying structural issues with your cabinets.
- It may not be possible to reface cabinets that are in poor condition.
- You’re limited to the existing layout of your cabinets.
- You may not be able to match the exact color or style of your existing cabinets.
My Personal Review
Overall, I was thrilled with our decision to reface our kitchen cabinets. We saved a significant amount of money compared to a full remodel, and the end result was beautiful. We opted for a classic white shaker style with brushed nickel hardware, and it completely transformed the look of our kitchen. I would highly recommend cabinet refacing as a cost-effective option for updating your kitchen.
Question & Answer
Q: Can you reface cabinets that have been painted?
A: Yes, you can reface cabinets that have been painted. However, it’s important to sand the cabinets down to the bare wood before applying the veneer.
FAQs
Q: How long does cabinet refacing take?
A: Most cabinet refacing jobs take between 2 and 4 days.
Q: Can I reface just some of my cabinets?
A: Yes, you can reface just some of your cabinets. However, it’s important to choose a color and style that complements your existing cabinets.
Q: Can I still use my kitchen during the refacing process?
A: Yes, you can still use your kitchen during the refacing process. However, you may need to temporarily remove some items from your cabinets.