Is Cabinet Refacing Worth It? Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Guide

Sep 19, 2024 Socius Account Manager

Are you planning a kitchen renovation project? If so, chances are good that you’ll want to refresh your cabinets. This has probably left you wondering “Is cabinet refacing worth it?” The answer largely depends on one question: What condition are your existing kitchen cabinets in? If the boxes are structurally sound and you simply want to update their appearance, cabinet refacing would likely be a worthwhile investment. But if the existing kitchen cabinetry is damaged or not functioning properly—perhaps the shelves are loose or the drawers aren’t sliding smoothly along the tracks—then you might want to opt for a full kitchen cabinet replacement instead. A full replacement might also be a better option if you’re unhappy with the existing layout of your kitchen, since refacing won’t do anything to change that.

Kitchen cabinets take up most of the wall space in a kitchen—indeed, they’re probably the first thing you see when you walk in—so updating them can completely transform the look of the room. And if you’ve started researching kitchen cabinet remodels, you may have come across a process referred to as kitchen cabinet refacing.

What Is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?

Kitchen cabinet refacing is a popular renovation option that refreshes the look of your kitchen without the need for a complete cabinet replacement. This process involves removing the existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the original cabinet boxes intact. The exposed cabinet frame bases, or boxes, are then covered with a high-quality veneer, laminate, or wood finish to create a seamless, updated appearance. Once the new surface is applied, brand-new doors and drawer fronts are installed, along with updated hardware such as handles, knobs, and hinges.

Cabinet refacing is an excellent solution for homeowners who want a kitchen makeover without the high cost and disruption of a full remodel. Since the cabinet structure remains in place, refacing is a more budget-friendly and time-efficient option compared to completely replacing kitchen cabinetry. Additionally, this method is an eco-friendly choice, as it reduces waste by reusing the existing cabinet framework.

Homeowners can choose from a variety of materials and styles for their refaced cabinets, including modern, traditional, and contemporary kitchen cabinet designs. Whether you prefer sleek shaker-style doors, rich wood finishes, or a clean white laminate, cabinet refacing allows for significant customization to match your kitchen’s aesthetic.

Overall, cabinet refacing offers a practical and stylish way to enhance the look of your kitchen while maintaining a functional layout. If your cabinet boxes are in good condition and you want to achieve a fresh new look without a major renovation, refacing is a smart and efficient choice.

Will Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Work for My Kitchen Cabinets?

Cabinet refacing is a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh, modern look, but it’s not the right solution for every kitchen. Before deciding on refacing, it’s important to evaluate whether your existing cabinet boxes are in good enough condition to support new doors, drawer fronts, and veneer coverings. Here’s how to determine if your cabinets are suitable for refacing and when a full replacement might be necessary.

How to Determine if Your Cabinet Boxes Are in Good Condition

Here’s how to determine if your kitchen cabinets are in good condition and a potential candidate for kitchen cabinet refacing:

Check Your Kitchen Cabinet Boxes for Solid and Structurally Sound Frames

The foundation of your cabinets—often called the cabinet boxes—must be sturdy and well-constructed.
If your cabinets are made from solid wood or high-quality plywood, they are usually good candidates for refacing.
Avoid refacing if the boxes are made from particleboard that has started to break down or warp.

Ensure Doors and Drawers Function Properly

Check if your cabinet doors and drawers open and close smoothly.
If hinges or drawer slides are slightly worn, they can be replaced as part of the refacing process.
However, if the drawers are falling apart or the cabinet frames are warped, refacing may not be the best option.

See If There is Visible Water Damage or Warping

Water damage can cause cabinet frames to swell, crack, or weaken over time.
If you notice significant warping, bubbling, or soft spots, it may indicate structural damage that makes refacing impractical.
Minor surface damage, such as small scratches or discoloration, is typically not a problem.

Verify There is No Mold, Mildew, or Pest Damage

Inspect the inside of your cabinets for signs of mold or mildew, which can compromise their integrity.
Look for evidence of termites, carpenter ants, or other pests that may have weakened the wood.
If structural damage is present, replacement is usually the better choice.

You’re Happy with the Existing Cabinet Layout

If you’re happy with the current layout of your kitchen, refacing is a great option.
However, if you want to change the configuration of your cabinets, add storage space, or make major modifications, replacing them is likely necessary.

When Cabinet Refacing Is a Viable Option

Cabinet refacing is a great choice if:

Your cabinet boxes are in good shape and structurally sound.
You want to update the look of your kitchen without a full remodel.
The cabinet doors and drawer fronts are outdated but the framework is still functional.
You’re looking for a budget-friendly and environmentally friendly renovation option.

When Cabinet Replacement Might Be Necessary

Full cabinet replacement may be the better option if:

The cabinet frames are damaged, warped, or falling apart.
Water damage, mold, or pest infestations have compromised the structural integrity.
You want to reconfigure the kitchen layout or increase storage space.
The cabinets are made from low-quality materials that won’t hold up over time.

By assessing the condition of your existing cabinets, you can determine whether refacing is a smart investment or if it’s time for a full replacement. If your cabinets are structurally sound and you simply want a fresh look, refacing can provide a beautiful and cost-effective kitchen transformation.

Why Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Is Worth It

One of the primary advantages of refacing your kitchen cabinets rather than replacing them is that it will save you money. Since the contractor you hire won’t need to build new boxes, you won’t need to spend as much on wood and other supplies (also a benefit for environmentally conscious homeowners!). Plus, because cabinet refacing generally takes significantly less time to complete than a full replacement, labor costs will also be lower. The shortened timeline will also get you back in your kitchen sooner, so you won’t end up spending as much on dining out and ordering takeout while your kitchen is out of commission.

How Refaced Cabinets Make Your Kitchen Look Brand New

One of the biggest advantages of cabinet refacing is the ability to fully customize the look of your kitchen without the cost of a full replacement. By choosing new doors, drawer fronts, hardware, and finishes, you can transform outdated cabinets into a modern, stylish focal point.

Choosing New Doors, Drawer Fronts, and Hardware

When refacing your kitchen cabinets, one of the most impactful design choices you’ll make is selecting new door and drawer front styles. The style you choose sets the tone for your kitchen’s overall look, whether you prefer a sleek modern aesthetic, a timeless traditional feel, or something in between. From classic shaker doors to contemporary flat panels, exploring different styles will help you achieve the perfect balance of beauty and functionality for your space.

The right cabinet hardware can enhance both the style and functionality of your refaced cabinets, making it an essential part of the design process. Handles and knobs come in a variety of styles, from classic round knobs for a traditional look to sleek bar pulls that complement modern kitchens. For a more decorative touch, vintage-inspired designs can add character and charm. Hinges also play a crucial role in the cabinet’s overall appearance—exposed hinges can create a rustic or antique look, while concealed hinges provide a seamless, streamlined aesthetic. For an added touch of luxury, consider soft-close features, which prevent doors and drawers from slamming shut. Soft-close hinges and drawer slides not only enhance durability but also contribute to a quieter, more high-end kitchen experience. By carefully selecting your cabinet hardware, you can elevate the look of your refaced cabinets while improving everyday functionality.

Popular Color and Finish Options to Match Different Kitchen Styles

The color and finish of your refaced cabinets play a key role in defining your kitchen’s overall style. Classic white remains a popular choice, as it brightens up the space and provides a clean, timeless look that suits any design aesthetic. For a more natural feel, warm wood tones add texture and depth, making them ideal for rustic, farmhouse, or traditional kitchens. If you’re looking for something bold and sophisticated, dark espresso or black cabinetry creates a dramatic, high-end appeal. On the other hand, cool grays and blues offer a fresh, modern touch that pairs well with contemporary and transitional styles.

For those who want a unique, eye-catching design, two-tone cabinetry—using lighter shades on upper cabinets and darker tones on lower ones—adds contrast and visual interest. Additionally, the choice between high-gloss and matte finishes can further refine the look; high-gloss surfaces reflect light for a sleek, modern appearance, while matte finishes provide a soft, understated elegance. By selecting the right combination of styles, finishes, and hardware, you can achieve a brand-new kitchen look through refacing, tailored to your taste and design goals.

Is Cabinet Refacing a DIY-Friendly Project?

Cabinet refacing may seem like a straightforward project, but it requires precision, attention to detail, and specialized tools. While some homeowners choose to tackle refacing themselves, others opt to hire professionals to ensure a high-quality finish. If you’re considering DIY cabinet refacing, here’s what you need to know:

Skills Required for DIY Cabinet Refacing:

Measuring and cutting veneer or laminate with accuracy.
Removing and installing cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
Applying adhesives smoothly and without bubbles.
Using power tools like drills, saws, and sanders safely.

Kitchen Cabinet Refacing DIY Tools You’ll Need:

Screwdrivers and power drills for removing and installing doors.
Utility knife, veneer cutter, or electric saw for precise trimming.
Power sander for preparing surfaces.
Clamps and rollers for applying veneers evenly.
Measuring tape and level to ensure proper alignment.

DIY cabinet refacing can be time-consuming and may take several days to complete, especially for larger kitchens. If mistakes are made, such as misaligned doors or uneven veneer application, repairs can be costly and difficult to fix.

Why Hire a Professional for Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Hiring a professional kitchen cabinet refacing company is recommended if:

You lack experience with woodworking or cabinetry.
You want a seamless, factory-quality finish.
Your cabinets have minor structural issues that need reinforcement.
You don’t have the time or tools to complete the project properly.
You don’t want to risk Kitchen Cabinets that look worse than when you started
You want to increase your home value

While DIY refacing sounds like it may save money, often unforeseen complications or mistakes result in costly or unsightly errors. Hiring a professional kitchen cabinet refacing contractor ensures durability, longevity, and an expert-level transformation of your kitchen.

How Cabinetry Refacing Can Increase Home Value

Updating your kitchen is one of the most effective ways to boost your home’s value, and cabinetry refacing offers a budget-friendly way to achieve a modern, polished look without a full remodel.

The Impact of an Updated Kitchen on Home Resale Value

Kitchens are one of the first areas homebuyers evaluate, and outdated cabinets can make the entire home feel old-fashioned.
A fresh, updated kitchen can increase a home’s appeal and lead to more offers at higher prices.
Refacing provides a high return on investment (ROI), as it delivers a significant visual upgrade at a fraction of the cost of full cabinet replacement.

How Refacing Can Improve Aesthetics Without Breaking the Budget

Giving your kitchen a fresh, updated look doesn’t have to come with the high price tag of a full renovation. Cabinet refacing offers a cost-effective way to transform your space by replacing doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet structure intact. This process allows you to achieve a modern, stylish kitchen without the expense and hassle of a complete remodel. Your kitchen cabinet refacing project will provide:

Affordable Transformation: Refacing costs 30-50% less than full cabinet replacement while achieving a comparable aesthetic improvement.
Modern Design Appeal: New doors, drawer fronts, and finishes can instantly modernize an outdated kitchen.
Minimal Disruption: Unlike full remodeling projects that take weeks or months, refacing can be completed in days, making it an attractive option for homeowners looking for quick upgrades.
A Sustainable Choice: Many homebuyers appreciate eco-friendly renovations, and refacing reduces landfill waste by reusing existing cabinetry.

With a variety of design options, finishes, and hardware upgrades, refacing can dramatically improve aesthetics while staying within budget. By investing in cabinet refacing, homeowners can enhance their kitchen’s style and increase home value without undergoing an expensive, time-consuming remodel.

Affordable Cabinet Refacing Services in Tampa, Orlando & Fort Myers

If kitchen cabinet refacing sounds like the right choice for your kitchen, the next step will be finding a reputable kitchen cabinet contractor who can complete the job for a reasonable price. Fortunately, if you own a home in Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, or the surrounding area, you can turn to Morgan Kitchens for help with your cabinet refacing project. We’re a trusted home improvement contractor that’s been serving customers since 1995, and we’re pleased to offer cabinet refacing services using top-quality materials from Cabinet Restylers. Our cabinet refacing products are made from Duracore, which is specially engineered to resist water, stains, and impacts to ensure lasting performance.

Contact Morgan Kitchens today to schedule a complimentary in-home consultation. We’ll be happy to take a look at your existing cabinets, let you know if they’re suitable for refacing, and walk you through our wide selection of design options. And, if it turns out that your cabinets are better suited for a replacement rather than refacing, we can perform that service for you, as well.