Understanding Cabinet Refacing

Kitchen renovations are by far one of the most costly updates you can make in a home. Cabinets can be a tired element bringing the room down. Replacing custom cabinets like this can be a burden on your wallet. If your cabinets are in good shape and just need some color updates, consider refinishing. To begin with, let’s take a look at what the project entails. Here’s understanding cabinet refacing.

Dramatic differences can be achieved with a change in finish or color on your kitchen cabinets. While the process is more cost-effective than replacing the cabinets, it’s by no means an easy task. For this sort of update, you’ll likely want to consult a professional crew for the best results and fastest turnaround.

What is Refacing?

Refacing a cabinet, sometimes referred to as resurfacing, is essentially replacing the outside ‘skin’ of the cabinets and drawers. This can mean new paint, stain or veneer to give you a fresh look while maintaining the old cabinets underneath. The new-look can be finished by adding new hinges and handles.

The Process

• Hardware is removed.
• Cabinet doors are removed, drawer fronts are taken off. They are labeled for easy identification.
• All front-facing cabinets are cleaned thoroughly.
• The fronts of the door and drawers are scuff-sanded to remove any finishes and sealants. The crew then follows the same steps on the cabinets on the wall.
• The new color is applied. This is usually done with paint or stain.
• After a complete dry time, the cabinets are reassembled with new hardware. They are affixed back on the shelving.
• Accessories are added. This can be glass panels, lighting, storage or crown molding.

Length of Service

Typically a crew will be required for this size of a job. Normally, they can complete a cabinet refacing service in several days. Larger kitchens naturally will take more time, or may require more crew members.

What Cabinets Can Be Refaced?

Not all cabinets are suitable for refacing. This doesn’t necessarily mean that older cabinets are out of the running. There are a few elements you’ll want to have before you enter into a project like this. As always, if you are unsure, an estimate appointment can help you. The pro will be able to determine if your cabinets are suitable for refacing. Here are some things to look for:

Solid wood construction. While some cabinets are made from particle boards and other less costly wood surfaces, they are not suitable for a cabinet refacing project.
Good overall condition. Cracks, chips, divots and other imperfections will be even more obvious after a refacing.
Internal tracks and storage elements in good shape. If shelves are bowing and tracks are lifted, you should consider a cabinet replacement instead. Refacing will not address or help any of these problems.

Costs

Cabinet refacing will always be less costly than replacing your cabinets. The prices will always be reliant on the size of your kitchen, color options, necessary steps and other determining factors. An appointment for an estimate can give you a solid understanding of what the cost will be. Generally, expect to pay about 50% of the cost of new custom cabinets.

Pros and Cons

The advantages and limitations of cabinet refacing should be carefully considered when weighing options for your kitchen remodel.

Pros

Kitchen layout remains intact. You do not need to consider appliances.
There are more style options. Between paint and stain, there are loads of colors to meet your needs.
The cost savings will allow you to have new looking cabinets for half the cost of replacing them.
Refacing is the green remodeling option. This keeps your wallet happy and your old cabinets out of the landfill. By saving the majority of your current kitchen cabinets, more wood isn’t needed.

Cons

Veneers may require additional steps before they can be stained or painted.
While your cabinets will look new, you cannot change out layouts or interior elements. If you lack storage or have sagging shelves, refacing will not address this.
Costs must be weighed. If you are changing the color, hardware, repairing problems and adding extra elements, the costs to reface your cabinets could be near to a new set.

Recommendation

With an understanding of cabinet refacing, you can make the best decision for your kitchen. If your current cabinets are in relatively good shape and need a color, this could be a good option.

While attempting this as a DIY project can be tempting, make sure you consider the associated costs that come with it. A crew will provide the service faster and with the know-how to get professional results. They also come with the tools and ancillary equipment needed for the job. You’ll also get the full attention of a crew, rather than just you working alone. This makes the job faster.

If you’re considering a cabinet refacing project, call us! We have crews specializing in this sort of work. We offer free, no-obligation estimate appointments to discuss exactly what you are looking for in your kitchen.