It was not that long ago when the only way to refurbish a cabinet was by painting it. This was not the best looking way to update a cabinet and, fortunately, refacing has seen significant improvements since. It can be tricky to decide at what point to reface or replace your cabinets. Here is a breakdown of both options to help you make your decision:
Reface
What is it?
There are two parts to cabinet refacing: installing new drawers and door faces and veneering cabinet boxes. New cabinet accessories are typically installed as well. Entire drawers may be replaced if they are not functioning properly.
Can I do it myself?
Unless you have experience refacing cabinets, you are probably better off leaving this job to the professionals. Some companies sell these materials to the public, but the tools and techniques needed to finish the job are likely not something most people possess.
How many professionals will do it?
Not many professionals will reface cabinets as most prefer to replace them instead. Many do not have the experience or take the time to master the skills involved in the process.
Cost
Refacing cabinets cost about half as much as replacing them in a full kitchen. The average price ranges from $7,000 to $10,000.
When is it recommended?
Here are some instances where resurfacing makes the most sense:
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Cabinet boxes are in solid condition
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You are on a tight budget
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If you are remodelling instead of building a new home
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When like your kitchen layout as it is
How long does it take?
Refacing an entire kitchen can take between two to four days.
How eco-friendly is it?
The only items that are thrown out are the drawer fronts and cabinet doors making refacing an extremely environmentally friendly option.
How do I save money this way?
You could purchase your own cabinet hardware instead of buying from the company if you happen to see a sale going on.
Replacing
What is it?
Every cabinet is thrown away and replaced with new bases, cabinets, doors, and hardware. The bases must be levelled perfectly or the counter will not be straight and might crack later on.
Can I do it myself?
It is less complicated than refacing so you could do it yourself, but the pieces involved tend to be quite heavy. Levelling the base is also something that is better off left to professionals since it must be precise.
How many professionals will do it?
It will not be difficult to find a professional who will replace your cabinets. There is no shortage of professionals in this line of work.
Cost
To hire a contractor to install basic cabinets will run you around $12,000 to $20,000.
When is it recommended?
Here are some instances where replacing makes the most sense:
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If you are building a new home or addition with a new kitchen
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Creating a new layout
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If the cabinet drawers, doors, or boxes are in terrible shape
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Doing a kitchen remodel
How long does it take?
Contractors can complete cabinet replacements in one to two days.
How eco-friendly is it?
Most of the time, old cabinet boxes, hardware, and doors end up in a landfill. Although, it is possible to donate cabinets that are in decent shape to recycling yards.
How do I save money this way?
You could purchase ready to assemble cabinets and install them yourself if you consider yourself handy with home reno projects.
If your kitchen cabinets could use an update, call Bathroom Guru. We specialize in bathroom renovation but have the skill set needed to reface kitchens as well.