Expert Tips: How Do You Redo Kitchen Cabinets?

You can redo kitchen cabinets through various methods like painting, refacing, or restoration. These updates can significantly change your kitchen’s look and feel without a full renovation.

Redoing kitchen cabinets is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your kitchen. Whether you’re aiming for a modern farmhouse feel or a sleek, contemporary look, updating your cabinets can make a world of difference. Many homeowners wonder how to approach this task. This guide will walk you through the best ways to redo your kitchen cabinets, from simple DIY kitchen cabinet updates to more involved projects. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right materials to mastering essential techniques.

Deciding on Your Cabinet Redo Approach

Before you grab a paintbrush or order new doors, it’s crucial to decide which method best suits your needs, budget, and desired outcome. The choices generally fall into three main categories:

Painting: This is often the most budget-friendly and accessible option for a significant visual transformation.
Refacing: This involves replacing the visible parts of your cabinets (doors, drawer fronts, and often the visible end panels) while keeping the existing cabinet boxes.
Restoration: This focuses on bringing existing cabinets back to their original glory or enhancing their natural beauty, often involving stripping, sanding, and refinishing.

Let’s delve deeper into each of these.

Painting Your Kitchen Cabinets: A Popular DIY Kitchen Cabinet Update

Painting kitchen cabinets is a very popular choice for a reason. It’s a relatively straightforward process that can yield dramatic results. It allows for immense customization in terms of color and finish, truly allowing you to personalize your space.

The Painting Process: Step-by-Step

The success of painting kitchen cabinets hinges on meticulous preparation. Rushing this stage is a recipe for a less-than-ideal finish.

Step 1: Empty and Clean
Completely empty your cabinets. Remove all shelves, dividers, and anything stored inside. Then, thoroughly clean the cabinets. Use a degreaser and a damp cloth to remove grease, grime, and any food splatters. Don’t forget the inside of the doors and drawer fronts.

Step 2: Remove Hardware and Doors
Carefully unscrew all hinges, handles, and knobs. Label each door and drawer front with its corresponding cabinet box location using painter’s tape and a marker. This is crucial for reassembly. If you plan to reuse your existing hardware, set it aside safely. If you’re getting new hardware, now’s the time to choose it.

Step 3: Sanding is Key
Lightly sand all cabinet surfaces. The goal isn’t to remove the old finish entirely, but to scuff it up, creating a surface for the new paint or primer to adhere to. Use fine-grit sandpaper (120-180 grit). For areas with stubborn old finishes or damage, you might need a coarser grit, but always follow up with finer grit.

Sanding Tips:
- Always sand in the direction of the wood grain.
- For detailed areas, use sanding sponges or small sanding blocks.
- After sanding, wipe down all surfaces with a tack cloth or a slightly damp microfiber cloth to remove all dust. Dust is the enemy of a smooth paint finish.

Step 4: Priming for Perfection
Apply a high-quality primer specifically designed for cabinets or laminate surfaces. Primer acts as a bonding agent, ensuring your paint adheres well and preventing the old finish from bleeding through. Apply one to two thin, even coats, allowing each to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Lightly sand with a very fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit) after the primer dries. Wipe away dust.

Step 5: Painting Techniques for a Smooth Finish
This is where cabinet painting techniques really matter. For a professional-looking finish, avoid using only a roller or only a brush.

Best Tools:
- High-quality synthetic bristle brushes: For cutting in edges and detailed areas.
- Foam rollers or microfiber rollers: For flat surfaces, providing a smooth, even coat.
Application:
- Apply paint in thin, even coats. Over-applying can lead to drips and an uneven finish.
- Work in sections, applying the paint smoothly.
- For doors and drawer fronts, lay them flat to paint. This prevents drips and allows for a more even application.
- Paint the back of the doors first, let them dry, then flip and paint the front.
- For cabinet boxes, paint the interior surfaces first, then the exterior.

Step 6: Multiple Coats for Durability
Apply two to three thin coats of your chosen cabinet paint. This is crucial for durability and achieving a rich, opaque color. Allow adequate drying time between coats. A common mistake is rushing the drying process.

Step 7: Top Coat for Protection
Once the final coat of paint is dry, apply a durable top coat, such as a polyurethane or a specialized cabinet sealant. This protects the paint from chips, scratches, and moisture, which are common in a kitchen environment. Apply one to two thin coats.

Step 8: Reassembly
Once everything is completely dry (this can take 24-48 hours for the top coat to fully cure), reattach the hardware and carefully rehang the doors and reinsert the drawers.

Paint Types to Consider:

Latex/Acrylic Enamels: Water-based, easy to clean up, low VOCs. Many are formulated for cabinetry and offer good durability.
Oil-Based Enamels: Traditional choice, very durable, smooth finish, but have strong fumes and require mineral spirits for cleanup. Less common now due to newer water-based advancements.
Chalk Paint: Popular for a matte, vintage look. Requires a wax or poly sealant. Can be chalky and less durable for high-traffic areas without proper sealing.
Milk Paint: Similar to chalk paint, offering a matte finish. Often requires a bonding agent for non-porous surfaces.

Cabinet Refacing: A Fresh Exterior

Cabinet refacing is an excellent option if your existing cabinet boxes are still structurally sound but the doors and drawer fronts are outdated or damaged. This method offers a brand-new look with less disruption than a full cabinet replacement.

What is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing only the visible components of your cabinets. This typically includes:

New Doors: You can choose from a vast array of styles, materials (wood, MDF, thermofoil), and colors.
New Drawer Fronts: These match the new doors for a cohesive look.
New Veneer or Edge Banding: The exposed sides of your cabinet boxes are covered with matching veneer or edge banding to hide the old material.
New Hardware: Handles and knobs are typically replaced as well.

The existing cabinet frames (boxes) remain in place.

The Refacing Process: When to DIY vs. Hire

While cabinet refacing can be a DIY project, it often requires specialized tools and a higher level of precision for a professional finish. Many homeowners opt to hire a professional refacing company.

If You DIY:
* Measure Carefully: Precision is paramount when ordering new doors and drawer fronts. Measure each component exactly.
* Order Materials: You’ll order doors and drawer fronts from a supplier. Consider the material, style, and finish.
* Prepare Boxes: Clean and sand the existing cabinet boxes. Apply new veneer or edge banding to the exposed sides. This is a critical step for a seamless look.
* Install New Components: Attach new hinges and mount the new doors and drawer fronts.

If You Hire Professionals:
* Consultation: A company will visit your home to assess your existing cabinets and discuss your design preferences.
* Customization: They will help you select doors, drawer fronts, and hardware.
* Fabrication: Your new components are custom-made to fit your existing boxes.
* Installation: Professionals will remove old doors and drawer fronts and install the new ones, ensuring a perfect fit and finish.

Benefits of Cabinet Refacing:
* Cost-Effective: Generally less expensive than full cabinet replacement.
* Less Disruptive: Keeps the existing cabinet boxes, meaning less mess and disruption in your kitchen.
* New Look: Provides a completely updated aesthetic without a major renovation.
* Durability: New doors and drawer fronts can be made from high-quality materials.

Considerations for Refacing:
* Cabinet Box Condition: Your existing boxes must be in good structural condition. If they are warped, water-damaged, or poorly constructed, refacing may not be the best option.
* Limited Structural Changes: Refacing doesn’t allow for significant changes to the cabinet layout or size.

Kitchen Cabinet Restoration: Honoring the Original

Kitchen cabinet restoration is about preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and character of your existing cabinets, often made of solid wood. This process focuses on cleaning, repairing, and applying protective finishes to bring out the wood’s natural luster.

The Restoration Process

Restoration is more about meticulous care than a complete overhaul.

Step 1: Deep Cleaning
Thoroughly clean cabinets with a mild wood cleaner or a solution of mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. For stubborn grime, a specialized wood degreaser might be necessary.

Step 2: Repairing Damage
Inspect for any damage:
* Dings and Scratches: Small scratches can often be buffed out with fine steel wool (0000 grade) or furniture repair markers. Deeper scratches might require wood filler.
* Loose Joints: Re-glue any loose joints with wood glue. Clamp them firmly until dry.
* Warped Doors: Warped doors can sometimes be straightened by removing hardware and allowing them to sit in a controlled environment, or by adding bracing.

Step 3: Stripping (If Necessary)
If the existing finish is severely damaged, flaking, or you want to change the color dramatically, you might need to strip the old finish. This can be done using chemical strippers or by sanding. Always wear protective gear (gloves, mask, eye protection) when using chemical strippers.

Step 4: Sanding for a Smooth Surface
Whether you stripped the old finish or are just preparing for a new one, thorough sanding is essential. Start with a medium grit (100-120) to remove imperfections and old finish, then move to finer grits (150, 180, 220) for a smooth surface.

Step 5: Staining or Refinishing
* Staining: If you want to change the wood color, apply a wood stain. Test the stain on a scrap piece of wood or an inconspicuous area first. Apply with a brush or rag, wiping off excess with the grain.
* Refinishing (Clear Coat): If you want to preserve the original wood color but refresh the finish, apply multiple thin coats of a clear sealant like polyurethane, varnish, or lacquer.

Step 6: Applying Protective Top Coat
A final top coat is crucial for protection. Polyurethane (oil-based for maximum durability, water-based for easier cleanup and lower odor) is a popular choice. Apply thin, even coats, allowing ample drying time between each. Lightly sand with 220-grit sandpaper between coats for a smoother finish.

Cabinet Restoration vs. Refinishing:
While often used interchangeably, kitchen cabinet restoration implies bringing something back to its former state or enhancing its original beauty. Kitchen cabinet refinishing is a broader term that can include restoration but also covers changing the color or applying a new finish to an already restored surface.

Resurfacing Kitchen Cabinets: A Middle Ground

Resurfacing kitchen cabinets can sometimes refer to a few different processes, often blending elements of painting and refacing. It can mean applying a new finish over the existing one, or it can be synonymous with refacing.

What is Kitchen Cabinet Resurfacing Cost?

The kitchen cabinet resurfacing cost can vary significantly depending on the method used.
* Painting: Costs can range from a few hundred dollars for DIY supplies to several thousand dollars for professional painters.
* Refacing: Typically costs between $5,000 and $10,000 for an average kitchen, but can go higher depending on material choices and complexity.
* Professional Restoration/Refinishing: Can also range from $2,000 to $6,000 or more, depending on the condition of the cabinets and the extent of work required.

Let’s look at a comparative cost table:

Method	Typical DIY Cost Range	Typical Professional Cost Range	Pros	Cons
Painting	$200 – $800	$2,000 – $6,000+	Most affordable, wide color choice, significant visual impact.	Durability depends on prep and paint quality, can be labor-intensive.
Cabinet Refacing	$1,000 – $3,000+	$5,000 – $10,000+	New look, good durability, less disruptive than replacement.	Can be costly, limited to replacing visible parts, requires precise measurements.
Restoration/Refinishing	$300 – $1,500	$2,000 – $6,000+	Enhances natural wood beauty, preserves original character, can be durable.	Labor-intensive, limited to wood cabinets, damage repair can be complex.
Complete Replacement	N/A	$10,000 – $30,000+	Full customization, new layout possible, highest durability.	Most expensive, most disruptive, requires major demolition.

Updating Kitchen Cabinets: Beyond Paint and Refacing

There are other ways to update your kitchen cabinets that can complement your chosen primary method or stand alone.

Hardware Upgrade

Simply changing out knobs and pulls can instantly update your cabinets. This is one of the easiest and most affordable DIY kitchen cabinet updates.

Styles: From sleek modern bar pulls to vintage-inspired knobs, the options are endless.
Materials: Consider brushed nickel, matte black, brass, chrome, or even ceramic.
Placement: Ensure the new hardware is drilled to match existing holes, or be prepared to fill old holes and drill new ones.

Adding or Changing Doors

If you like the frame of your cabinets but hate the doors, you can replace just the doors and drawer fronts. This is essentially a part of cabinet refacing but can be done on a smaller scale if you have a small kitchen or just want to update a few key cabinets.

Open Shelving

Removing some upper cabinet doors and replacing them with open shelving can create a more airy and modern feel.

Pros: Visually opens up the space, easy access to frequently used items, great for displaying decorative pieces.
Cons: Requires meticulous organization and regular dusting, can make the kitchen look cluttered if not maintained.
Materials: Wood, metal, glass.

Adding Molding or Trim

Adding decorative molding or trim to the top of your cabinets or along the cabinet doors can add architectural interest and a more custom, high-end look.

Cabinet Renewal: A Maintenance Perspective

Cabinet renewal often refers to the ongoing maintenance and refresh of your cabinets. Even if you’ve recently redone them, regular cleaning and occasional touch-ups will ensure they last and look their best.

Regular Cleaning: Wipe down surfaces regularly with a soft, damp cloth.
Touch-Up Paint: Keep a small amount of your cabinet paint for touching up minor chips or scratches.
Hardware Tightening: Periodically check that hardware is secure.

Choosing the Right Materials and Finishes

The longevity and appearance of your redone cabinets depend heavily on the materials and finishes you choose.

Cabinet Paint: Quality Matters

Don’t skimp on paint quality. For painting kitchen cabinets, a high-quality acrylic enamel or a cabinet-specific paint is recommended. These are formulated for durability, adhesion, and a smooth finish.

Sheen:
- Satin/Eggshell: Offers a soft sheen, hides imperfections well, and is fairly durable. A good balance for most kitchens.
- Semi-Gloss: More reflective, very durable, and easy to clean. Can highlight imperfections.
- Matte: Hides imperfections best but is the least durable and hardest to clean.
- Gloss: Very reflective, highlights every flaw, but is extremely durable and easy to clean. Often used for modern looks on doors.

Primers: The Foundation

A good primer is non-negotiable. Look for primers specifically designed for cabinets or high-moisture areas. They provide a strong base for paint adhesion and block stains.

Top Coats: Protection is Key

A durable top coat protects your freshly painted cabinets from daily wear and tear. Polyurethane (water-based or oil-based) or a cabinet-specific lacquer provides a hard, protective finish.

Refacing Materials: Doors and Drawer Fronts

Solid Wood: Beautiful, durable, but can be expensive. Prone to expansion/contraction with humidity changes. Common woods include maple, cherry, oak, and birch.
MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): A stable, smooth material that paints exceptionally well. Often used for painted cabinets. Can be coated with veneer for a wood-look.
Thermofoil: A vinyl film fused to an MDF core. Offers a seamless, easy-to-clean surface and is cost-effective. Can delaminate with excessive heat or moisture over time.
Veneer: Thin layers of real wood applied over a substrate like MDF or particleboard. Offers the look of solid wood at a lower cost.

Tools of the Trade: Essential for a Professional Finish

Having the right tools can make a significant difference in the quality of your results.

For Painting:
- Orbital Sander and Sanding Blocks/Sponges
- High-Quality Brushes (synthetic for water-based paints)
- Foam or Microfiber Rollers
- Paint Trays and Liners
- Painter’s Tape (high-quality, like FrogTape or Blue Painter’s Tape)
- Drop Cloths
- Degreaser/Cleaner
- Tack Cloths
- Screwdrivers (for hardware)
- Primer and Paint
- Top Coat/Sealant
- Safety Glasses, Gloves, and Respirator Mask
For Refacing:
- Measuring Tape
- Drill/Driver
- Screwdrivers
- Level
- Veneer and Adhesive (if DIYing sides)
- Utility Knife
- New Doors, Drawer Fronts, and Hardware

Popular Cabinet Styles and Finishes

When updating kitchen cabinets, consider current trends and timeless styles.

Styles

Shaker: Simple, clean lines with a recessed center panel. Versatile and works with many design aesthetics.
Slab (Flat Panel): Modern and minimalist, with a smooth, flat surface.
Raised Panel: Features a center panel that is raised or has a profile. More traditional.
Beadboard: Features a series of vertical grooves, giving a cottage or coastal feel.

Finishes

White: Timeless, brightens the kitchen, and pairs well with almost any countertop or backsplash.
Gray: A popular neutral that offers a sophisticated and modern look.
Navy/Deep Blue: Adds a dramatic pop of color and can create a focal point.
Wood Tones: Natural wood finishes (oak, maple, walnut) bring warmth and texture.
Two-Tone: Combining different colors or finishes for upper and lower cabinets, or for the island.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I paint over stained cabinets?
Yes, you absolutely can paint over stained cabinets, provided you prepare the surface properly. Thorough cleaning, degreasing, light sanding, and a good quality primer are essential for the paint to adhere well.

Q2: How long does it take to redo kitchen cabinets?
The time required varies greatly depending on the method and whether you DIY or hire professionals.
* DIY Painting: Can take anywhere from a week to a month, depending on drying times between coats and your available time.
* Professional Painting: Typically takes 1-3 weeks.
* DIY Refacing: Can take several weeks to months for meticulous work.
* Professional Refacing: Usually completed in 1-3 weeks.
* Restoration: Varies based on the condition and extent of repairs needed, often several weeks.

Q3: What is the best type of paint for kitchen cabinets?
High-quality acrylic enamel or a paint specifically formulated for cabinets is generally considered the best. These paints offer good durability, adhesion, and a smooth finish that can withstand the wear and tear of a kitchen.

Q4: Do I need to hire a professional for cabinet refacing?
While some DIYers can achieve good results with cabinet refacing, it often requires precise measurements, specialized tools, and a good eye for detail. Hiring a professional ensures a high-quality, durable finish and can save you time and potential mistakes.

Q5: What’s the difference between cabinet refacing and refinishing?
Cabinet refacing typically involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts while keeping the cabinet boxes intact. Cabinet refinishing involves restoring or changing the finish of the existing doors and cabinet boxes, often through sanding and applying new stain or a clear protective coat.

Q6: How do I update my kitchen cabinets on a budget?
The most budget-friendly way is painting kitchen cabinets yourself. Other cost-effective updates include changing hardware, adding contact paper to the interior of cabinets, or replacing only the doors.

Q7: Is cabinet refacing worth the cost?
For many homeowners, cabinet refacing is worth the cost. It offers a significant visual upgrade at a lower price point than full cabinet replacement. It’s a good option when your existing cabinet boxes are in good condition but you want a new look.

Redoing your kitchen cabinets is a rewarding project that can dramatically improve your home’s aesthetics and value. By carefully considering your options and following best practices, you can achieve beautiful, durable results that you’ll enjoy for years to come.