Are your kitchen cabinets looking outdated or worn out? Do you want to update their look without spending too much money and time on a complete renovation? If so, cabinet refacing might be the perfect solution for you! In recent years, kitchen cabinet refacing has become increasingly popular as an affordable and efficient way to transform the heart of your home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about refacing kitchen cabinets. From the pros and cons of the different materials and styles available, we’ve got you covered. So sit back, relax, and explore how kitchen cabinet refacing can give your kitchen a fresh, new look!
What Exactly Is Cabinet Refacing?
Cabinet refacing is a process of giving your kitchen cabinets a fresh new look by replacing the cabinet skin panels. This involves removing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts to apply a new veneer over the existing surface. Refacing can also include replacing old hardware such as hinges, handles, and drawer pulls. The cabinet boxes themselves are left in place and updated to match the new surface or doors, eliminating the need for custom sizing or lengthy construction. The result is a kitchen that looks and feels brand new without the expense of a complete remodel.
The most common method of cabinet refacing is to cover the cabinet frames and sides with a thin wood veneer, although lamination can also be used as a substitute. The end result is a revitalized cabinet that looks just like new. So if you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to update your kitchen cabinets and give your kitchen a fresh new look, kitchen cabinet refacing may be just the solution you need.
Options for Various Refacing
Refacing your kitchen cabinets opens up a world of design possibilities, allowing you to create a unique look that you’ll love for years to come. One popular option is to choose cabinet doors and veneers made of natural wood, such as cherry or maple. While this option may come at a higher cost, it offers a timeless, high-end look that can add significant value to your home. It’s important to note that natural wood cabinets must be properly sealed to prevent moisture damage.
If you’re looking to save money while still achieving a custom look, plastic laminate veneers are an excellent choice. These veneers are significantly less expensive than natural wood, and they come in a variety of colors and patterns, giving you the ability to fully customize your kitchen cabinets. With the right laminate veneer, you can create a modern or classic look that perfectly complements your personal style.
Advantages of Kitchen Cabinet Resurfacing
- Less Expensive, Faster, and Less Disruptive
Compared to traditional cabinet replacement, refacing kitchen cabinets is a more cost-effective alternative. A full kitchen renovation can be time-consuming, costly, and highly disruptive to your daily routine. Refacing, on the other hand, is a quick and efficient process that allows you to continue using your kitchen while the upgrade is completed. Although cabinet refacing requires precision, time, and expertise, homeowners can learn the necessary skills and save thousands of dollars by doing it themselves.
- Numerous Styles to Choose From
One of the most significant advantages of refacing kitchen cabinets is the wide range of styles and veneer options available. Natural wood and laminates are just two of the many options for kitchen cabinet refacing. You can choose from a variety of colors, patterns, and textures to give your kitchen a unique look that you’ll enjoy for years.
- Increased Home Value with Minimal Construction
Refacing your kitchen cabinets is an ideal way to improve your kitchen’s functionality and appearance without changing the layout. This upgrade can increase your home’s value and help it sell faster. Refacing is a cost-effective way to make your home more appealing to potential buyers without breaking the bank.
- Eco-Friendly Substitute
Finally, most cabinets are made of MDF, which contains hazardous chemicals. Traditional cabinet replacement means that the old cabinets are discarded, and new cabinets are manufactured, which has a significant environmental impact. However, because the original cabinets are not destroyed or discarded during refacing, and no new cabinets are being manufactured, refacing is a more eco-friendly alternative. By choosing to reface your kitchen cabinets, you’re making a responsible choice that helps protect our environment.
Disadvantages of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
- Maintains the Current Design
One of the disadvantages of refacing cabinets is that you are limited to the current size and design of your kitchen. If you are looking for a complete overhaul or a new layout, refacing may not be the best option. A full kitchen remodel can provide you with the opportunity to improve functionality and create a new design. Refacing should only be considered a cosmetic improvement.
- Professional Installation May be Required
Depending on the complexity of the project, specialized tools and expertise may be needed for cabinet refacing. While DIY installation may be possible, hiring a professional is often the best option for achieving the desired results. The intricate craftwork and the quantity of matching hardware required for kitchen refacing can be more complex than it appears.
- Refacing Is Not Always a Cost-Effective Option
Refacing cabinets may not always be the most cost-effective option depending on your preferences and style choices. For example, replacing cabinet doors with high-end hardwood may be more expensive than simply painting the cabinets or replacing the knobs and drawer pulls. Therefore, it is essential to consider all options before making a decision.
How to Reface Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinet resurfacing is a popular option for upgrading kitchen cabinets without undergoing a full renovation. This process can be done professionally or by a skilled DIYer using a veneer kit and custom cabinet doors and drawer fronts. The steps involved in the kitchen cabinet resurfacing process include:
- Removing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and cabinet fronts (the remaining drawer boxes are left intact);
- Applying a veneer of rigid thermofoil, melamine-based material, or natural wood to the cabinet box fronts;
- Wrapping the cabinet sides with laminate or wood veneer;
- Installing new door hinges or reusing existing ones if they are still in good condition;
- Installing new drawer fronts and doors;
- Adding new handles, drawer pulls, and other fixtures. Existing hardware can also be reused;
- Optional extras may include crown molding, glass panels, lighting fixtures, and storage accessories.
When to Consider Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing is a good option when you want to update the look of your kitchen cabinets without altering the layout or structure of your kitchen. Refacing is also ideal if your cabinets are still in good condition but need a cosmetic upgrade.
However, if your cabinets are in poor condition, have significant damage, or the hardware is failing, refacing may not be the best solution. In these cases, replacing the cabinets may be necessary.
At Impressions Kitchens, our knowledgeable staff can help you evaluate the condition of your cabinets and determine whether refacing or replacing them is the better option for your needs and budget. Additionally, we offer custom kitchen cabinet installation services to help you achieve the look and functionality you desire.
Wrapping Up
Cabinet refacing can be an excellent and affordable option for remodeling your kitchen if your existing cabinets are sturdy and in good condition, and you desire a drastically different look. It’s important to evaluate your cabinets’ condition and your overall remodeling goals before deciding between refacing or replacing them. A professional like Impressions Kitchens can help you make the best decision for your kitchen.
