Cabinets are important parts of the kitchen, and there may come a time when you need to upgrade them. Two popular choices when it comes to remodeling cabinets are refacing and replacing. Both options have pros and cons; your choice will depend on your preference and needs.
What options are available when your kitchen cabinets are old, scratched, or damaged? Which one is the best, and how can you decide the one to choose?
Let’s look at the differences between cabinet refacing vs. cabinet replacing and the best choice for your kitchen.
Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing is one of the best options to give your cabinets a new appearance without replacing the entire cabinet. Since cabinets have two parts: the interior, and exterior, refacing is a simple process that involves refurbishing the exterior. In this case, the interior/cabinet frame remains the same, while the exterior/cabinet doors get a new look. Cabinet refacing is perfect for cost-conscious homeowners because the completed project gives the kitchen a new look.
The major refacing components include installing new drawer fronts/cabinet doors and the veneering of cabinet boxes. You can add some new paints and replace cabinet hardware like face framings and side panels.
Cabinet refacing is simpler and cheaper than installing new cabinetry and makes your cabinet look brand new again. Also, you don’t have to remove the old cabinet, making refacing more sustainable, time friendly, and less disruptive.
When Should I Reface?
Refacing is a good option if you are on a budget and need a cost-friendly alternative to change the look of your kitchen. Cabinet refacing is also a great option if you like the current layout of your kitchen but want new aesthetics.
In general, you should go for cabinet refacing if:
- Your cabinet boxes are in good shape, but the exterior doors and drawers need fixing.
- You’re on a budget and need a cost-friendly alternative.
- You have minor scratches or wear and tear on the cabinet surfaces.
Cost of Cabinet Refacing
Refacing your cabinets can cost between $4000 to $9,500. This cost can be lower or higher than this based on different factors, including the quality of the materials.
Kitchen Cabinet Replacing
With cabinet replacement, you completely remove the existing cabinets and install new cabinets. Cabinet refacing affects the outward look of your cabinet, while replacing lets you change the layout/design of your kitchen. In other words, all your cabinets will be removed so that you can hang new ones. Cabinet replacement is the most expensive way to give your kitchen a new look and orientation.
It is best to leave cabinet replacements to professional installers because of the complexity of the work required.
When Should I Replace?
When renovating an entire kitchen, homeowners often go with the replacement option. This is because it may be impossible to remodel the kitchen without damaging the cabinets. Also, cabinet replacement is an excellent option if you want to change your kitchen’s layout.
In general, it’s best to replace your cabinet if:
- Your cabinets are old
- The cabinet’s condition is bad (water damage, pest damage, peeling paint, etc.)
- You have the budget to replace
- You have plans to refurbish the rest of the kitchen.
What is the Cost of Replacing the Kitchen Cabinet?
Replacing your cabinets is more than just swapping out the old front doors and, for this reason, is more expensive. On average, the cost of replacing your full cabinet will be between $4000 to $18,000. This cost may vary depending on your needs, location, cabinet style, layout, and material.
Pros and Cons of Cabinet Replacing Vs. Cabinet Refacing
The major advantage of remodeling your cabinets is getting a new look for your kitchen. Here are the pros and cons of both remodeling options:
Cabinet Refacing: Pros
- An inexpensive and quick way to achieve new aesthetics for your kitchen
- Requires minimal disruption
- Less expensive compared to cabinet replacing
- Saves money on cabinets
- Can fix blemishes and scratches on cabinet surfaces
- Fast and simple process.
Cons
- It can only work if cabinet boxes are in good shape
- Only the exterior is refaced, insides stay the same
- The cabinet layout remains the same
- Paint and materials may not match the existing cabinet
- Not many customizable or design options
- If your cabinets are in bad shape, refacing won’t make them sturdier
Cabinet Replacement: Pros
- Better resale value
- It offers the opportunity to reimagine the complete layout of your kitchen. You can design your cabinets to meet specific needs and designers
- Stronger, sturdier materials
- A wider range of materials and finishes to choose from.
Cons
- More expensive. This is one of the biggest cons of replacing your cabinets.
- Causes huge disruption and demolition, which may affect your daily kitchen activities
- You may need to discard otherwise functional cabinets
- Time-consuming and longer process.
There is a Third Option: Refinishing
There is another option for remodeling cabinets, which is the refinishing option. With refinishing, you retain all the cabinet components while you update the look by changing the color or finishing. You can do this by stripping the existing finish and applying a new coat of paint, stain, or glaze.
Cabinet Refinishing is an excellent option if you want a new look for your cabinets without replacing anything. For refinishing, your cabinets should be in good shape and sturdy enough to withstand the paint stripping required before painting.
It’s also important to note that refinishing only works for specific cabinet types, mostly wood materials. Other cabinet materials, like laminate, can not be refinished because you can’t sand or strip them.
Bottom Line
Deciding between refacing and replacing depends on your budget and needs. If you are doing a major kitchen remodeling or your cabinets are in poor shape, replacing them will be the best choice. However, if your cabinets are in good condition and you don’t want a full kitchen model, refacing makes more sense.
Ready To Upgrade Your Kitchen Cabinet?
Hiring a professional to remodel your cabinets is the best way to ensure you get the right materials and finishing. Once you’ve decided between refacing and replacing, it’s time to hire a professional to help with your kitchen remodel.
Are you considering doing a kitchen remodel? We are happy to discuss your project with you. Feel free to request a free consultation, and our contractors will be there to help you design the kitchen of your dreams.