Is Kitchen Cabinet Resurfacing the Same as Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?

When planning a kitchen update, cabinets are often the first feature homeowners want to refresh. After all, they take up so much visual space—worn, dated cabinets can make an entire kitchen feel tired. As you research your options, you might run across two terms: cabinet refacing and cabinet resurfacing. But are they the same thing? 

The answer is yes—and no. While the two are closely related and often used interchangeably, there are a few differences worth understanding before you decide which option is best for your kitchen. 

What Is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?

Kitchen cabinet refacing is a professional process that gives your cabinets a completely new look without replacing the cabinet boxes themselves. With refacing, your contractor removes the old doors and drawer fronts and replaces them with brand-new, custom-built ones. The visible parts of the cabinet boxes are then covered with a durable veneer or laminate that matches your new doors. 

The final touch? New hardware, such as hinges, knobs, and pulls, ties the whole look together. Refacing is popular because it keeps your sturdy existing structure in place while giving your kitchen a dramatic style update at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.

What About Cabinet Resurfacing?

Cabinet resurfacing is often used as another term for refacing. In many cases, when a contractor or homeowner says “resurfacing,” they really mean “refacing.” However, some people use “resurfacing” to describe a lighter update—like sanding, repainting, or refinishing your existing cabinet doors instead of installing brand-new ones. 

In short: 

• Refacing is a more complete update—new doors, new drawer fronts, new veneers, and new hardware. 
• Resurfacing might mean the same thing, or it could refer to a simpler DIY project, like repainting or re-staining your current cabinet doors.

Why Homeowners Choose Refacing or Resurfacing Over Replacement 

Whether you call it refacing or resurfacing, the biggest advantage over a full cabinet replacement is simple: It saves you time and money while still delivering a big impact. 

Cost-Effective Transformation 

New cabinets are one of the largest expenses in any kitchen remodel. By keeping your existing cabinet boxes and replacing only the visible parts, you save significantly on materials and labor. On average, refacing costs 30–50% less than a complete cabinet replacement—money you can put toward new countertops, upgraded appliances, or other improvements. 

Less Disruption to Your Daily Life 

A full cabinet tear-out can take weeks and often requires you to lose access to your kitchen entirely. In contrast, most cabinet refacing projects are done in just a few days, with minimal mess or hassle. That means you spend less time ordering takeout or washing dishes in the bathroom sink! 

Plenty of Style Options 

Many homeowners worry that refacing will limit their design choices—but the opposite is true. You can choose from endless door styles, colors, finishes, and hardware to create a look that matches your taste, whether you love crisp white shaker cabinets, warm wood grains, or a sleek, modern vibe. 

An Eco-Friendly Upgrade 

Reusing your existing cabinet boxes keeps good materials out of the landfill—something more and more homeowners value when planning a remodel. It’s a win for your kitchen and the environment. 

When Should You Consider Full Cabinet Replacement Instead? 

Of course, refacing or resurfacing isn’t the right fit for every kitchen. If your cabinet boxes are damaged, warped, or suffering from water or pest issues, replacing them completely is often the better long-term solution. Likewise, if you want to dramatically change your kitchen’s layout, add more cabinets, or expand your storage, a full replacement may be necessary. 

Trust Morgan Kitchens for a Fresh Kitchen Look

No matter what you call it—kitchen cabinet resurfacing or kitchen cabinet refacing—giving your cabinets a facelift can make your whole kitchen feel brand new. At Morgan Kitchens, we help homeowners choose the best option for their space, budget, and goals. 

Contact Morgan Kitchens today to schedule your free consultation and see how easy it is to love your kitchen again—without the stress of a full remodel.