The decision to reface or replace your kitchen cabinets is a major one with a significant impact on your home’s long-term value. Each option has its own advantages, and the best choice will depend on the condition of your existing cabinets, your goals for the kitchen, and your budget.
Cabinet refacing is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to full replacement, allowing you to refresh your kitchen’s look without tearing down the entire space. It involves keeping your current cabinet boxes and structures, while changing the doors and drawer fronts and installing new hardware. The result is a refreshed, contemporary look that’s typically finished within a few days and requires minimal disruption to your daily life.
This option also allows you more flexibility in terms of design, offering a wide variety of colors and finishes to choose from. We use high-quality materials that are moisture, stain and scratch-resistant, making them a great choice for the kitchen environment. Additionally, the manufacturing lead time for cabinet fronts is often shorter than that of a full new kitchen, which can be a benefit if you’re looking to turn around a renovation project quickly.
The disadvantage of refacing is that it doesn’t address structural or other problems with your existing cabinets, which could require expensive repairs in the future. It’s also not the most comprehensive solution, since it only changes the appearance of your cabinets rather than altering the layout or improving storage solutions.
Another drawback is that refacing doesn’t allow you to change your cabinet layout, which can be a big deal if your old cabinets don’t fit well with the rest of your kitchen. Additionally, refacing doesn’t offer the opportunity to add new features like soft-close hinges or pull out shelves.
Finally, it’s important to note that not all refacing companies are created equal. Some use low-quality veneers and thermofoil, which are not durable enough for the kitchen environment. Make sure to select a company that uses quality materials, and always opt for solid wood if possible.
If your cabinets are in good shape and you don’t plan to sell soon, refacing might be the better option. However, if your cabinets are in poor condition and you want to boost your home’s value or improve its functionality, full replacement is a smarter financial choice.
Cabinet replacement is more extensive than refacing, requiring more labor and time, but it can also increase your home’s value and give you the functionality and modern design you want in your kitchen. This option is ideal for homeowners who are planning to stay in their home for the long term, as it offers a higher return on investment and adds lasting value. It’s also the best choice if you’re seeking an upgrade in your kitchen’s overall style and aesthetic, as you can incorporate new elements like a granite or quartz countertop to complement the updated cabinets. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking to install a center island or other features that can’t be installed during refacing.
A kitchen cabinet refacing contractor can take precise measurements and help you determine what will work best in your space. They will also know which products will work best with your existing cabinetry. They can also provide recommendations for your countertop and backsplash if you’re updating those as well. A cabinet refacing contractor can also ensure that the job is completed correctly and quickly. They will be able to get the project done more quickly and thoroughly than a homeowner could, saving you money and avoiding any mistakes or delays that can occur during DIY projects.
