Cabinet refacing is a popular and affordable way to give a new look to your kitchen. Compared to cabinet replacement, refacing requires less work, is less disruptive and is 30% to 50% cheaper to complete. In this comprehensive article, we talk about some of the pros and cons of cabinet refacing considering factors like budgeting and the desired results, to help you decide if refacing is worth your investment.
What is Cabinet Refacing?
Refacing is upgrading the visible parts of cabinets including doors and drawer fronts with a new face, usually applied by a veneer. The cabinet boxes, which is the shell of the cabinets without doors or drawers, also receive an updated matching veneer. The doors and drawers are prepared in an offsite workshop whereas the cabinet boxes are prepared on site. The cabinet boxes are sanded and then a new veneer is applied to the cabinet boxes with adhesive. To make sure the cabinets are functioning optimally, new hinges and knobs can also be installed as well. The refacing process typically takes 3 to 5 days compared to weeks for a full cabinet replacement.
Types of Veneer
Homeowners can update the veneer of their cabinets to a variety of options. Veneer doesn't have to wood. Veneer comes in a variety of materials including plastic, laminate, or acrylic. Classic veneer is made of a thin slice of real wood. Laminate veneer is a printed or textured surface that mimics the appearance of wood but is actually made from synthetic materials, such as plastic. Acrylic veneer offers a glossy, modern look and is commonly used in modern woodworking. All types of veneers are fixed to the prepared surface with adhesive.
Pros of Cabinet Refacing
There are amazing benefits of refacing cabinets compared to replacing them as we discuss below:
Cost-Effective
Generally, refacing cabinets saves you up to 50% compared to full cabinet replacement. For example, the average cost to reface kitchen cabinets is $4,000 to $9,000 against replacement which is anywhere between $15,000 to $45,000. That’s a lot of money to save, making it a great option to consider for most homeowners.
Eco-Friendly
If your cabinets really are working just fine but need them to look better, refacing is an eco-friendly solution and a way to reduce waste. It reuses existing cabinet boxes and simply upgrades the surfaces of your cabinetry. Seems a shame, and a lot of money, to replace something that is working fine!
Quick and Convenient
Cabinets typically take a week or more to replace but only a few days to reface them. Refacing can also continue simultaneously with normal kitchen activities. This makes refacing a convenient choice for those who only have a few days for the project and want to continue using their kitchen even during repairs.
Customization Options
For those looking to improve the aesthetics of their kitchens, refacing can help you personalize your cabinetry without making structural changes. Simply putting on a new veneer can dramatically change the whole look of your kitchen.
Boosts Home Value
Refacing visually upgrades your kitchen, increasing resale appeal to potential buyers. The exact increase in the value of your home depends on factors like the quality of the refacing, the overall condition of the kitchen, and the local market conditions. However, you can expect a return on investment of 70% to 80% of what you used to reface your cabinets.
Cons of Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing comes with its own share of challenges as we detail below
Limited Structural Updates:
Unfortunately, refacing kitchen cabinets does not get to the structural components of the cabinets, limiting you to just upgrading the visible parts. So if you want to go into extensive redesigns or additional storage, a cabinet reface won’t suffice.
Durability Concerns
Refaced kitchen cabinets may not be as durable as replaced cabinets, especially if the original cabinet parts are of varying quality and age. The attractive finishes might also mask underlying structural issues which may compromise the entire refacing investment over time.
Cost Considerations
Though cheaper than cabinet replacements, if you go with high-end finishes like solid wood veneer, it may be just as costly as cabinet replacement costs. If you decide to do it yourself and an error occurs, you will incur additional expenses to correct the mistakes.
Factors to Consider Before Refacing
Refacing your kitchen cabinets can greatly improve the appearance of your kitchen. But before starting a refacing project, consider these factors.
Cabinet Condition
Your cabinet boxes must be free from structural damage to qualify for refacing. So if you see signs of rotting, mold, or broken panels, that means replacing is the better option. You also need to evaluate the existing condition of the cabinet boxes to determine if it can even accept veneering.
Budget
How much are you willing to spend on a refacing project? The amount of money you have set aside will be distributed to buy materials and pay for labor if you’re hiring professionals. By planning your budget carefully, you will minimize the chances of not completing your refacing project.
Aesthetic Goals
Cabinet refacing offers the flexibility of design to achieve your desired kitchen style. If you want your kitchen to look modern, an acrylic veneer is probably your choice. On the other hand, if you are looking for a traditional look, use classic wood veneers with warm tones like oak or mahogany. Be sure to color match to the other elements of the kitchen like countertops and backsplashes.
Material Durability
The longevity of your kitchen cabinets depends heavily on the type of materials you use. So before you decide to undertake a refacing project, make sure you assess the available options. Consider how long you want your veneer to last and accompanying hardware options then choose those that suit your budget.
Conclusion: Is Refacing Worth It?
Cabinet refacing is a quick and cost-effective way to give your structurally sound cabinets a new look. But it’s not always the best solution for all kitchens. Therefore, reach out to a refacing professional like us at Lumina Construction to get personalized recommendations for your needs. An expert will also advise you on the best materials to choose and give you a quote for the project. If you need help with cabinet refacing, reach out to us at 212-920-9163 and we’ll be happy to guide you.