How Much Does It Cost To Reface Kitchen Cabinets: Your Ultimate Guide & Budget Breakdown

So, how much does it cost to reface kitchen cabinets? The average cost to reface kitchen cabinets typically ranges from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and whether you hire professionals or opt for a DIY approach. This guide will break down the expenses, explore your options, and help you create a realistic budget for your kitchen cabinet makeover.

How Much Does It Cost To Reface Kitchen Cabinets
Image Source: www.cabinetrefacedirect.com

Exploring Your Kitchen Cabinet Makeover Options

When it comes to refreshing your kitchen cabinets, you have several paths you can take. Each offers a different balance of cost, effort, and aesthetic impact. Let’s delve into the most common choices:

Refacing Cabinets vs. Replacing Cabinets

This is the most crucial decision you’ll make.

Cabinet Refacing: This process involves keeping your existing cabinet boxes (the frames) and replacing only the visible parts like doors, drawer fronts, and sometimes the veneer on the exposed sides. It’s a fantastic way to update the look without the mess and expense of a full gut job. The cabinet refacing cost is significantly lower than a complete replacement.
Cabinet Replacement: This means tearing out your old cabinets entirely and installing brand new ones. While this offers the ultimate in customization and a completely fresh start, it also comes with a much higher price tag and a more disruptive renovation process.

Why Choose Refacing?

Cost-Effectiveness: As mentioned, it’s generally much cheaper than replacing cabinets.
Less Disruption: You’re not removing the entire cabinet structure, meaning less demolition and less time without a functional kitchen.
Eco-Friendly: By reusing the cabinet boxes, you reduce waste.
Faster Turnaround: Refacing projects usually take less time than a full replacement.

When Might Replacement Be Better?

Poor Cabinet Box Condition: If your existing cabinet boxes are water-damaged, structurally unsound, or poorly constructed, refacing won’t solve these underlying issues.
Major Layout Changes: If you plan to significantly alter your kitchen’s layout, new cabinets are necessary to accommodate these changes.
Desire for Complete Customization: If you want entirely new cabinet styles, finishes, and internal organizational systems that aren’t compatible with your existing boxes, replacement is the way to go.

Deciphering the Cabinet Refacing Cost: A Detailed Breakdown

The cost of refacing kitchen cabinets isn’t a single figure. It’s influenced by a variety of factors. Let’s break down the typical expenses:

1. Labor Costs

This is often the largest portion of the cabinet refacing estimate. Professional installers will charge for their time, expertise, and the precision required to make your cabinets look brand new.

Hourly Rates: Varies greatly by region and the company’s reputation. Expect anywhere from $50 to $150 per hour per professional.
Project-Based Pricing: Many companies offer a flat fee for the entire job, which accounts for the estimated hours and complexity.
DIY Savings: If you have the skills, patience, and tools, doing it yourself can save you thousands. However, factor in the cost of your time and the risk of errors.

2. Materials for Refacing

This is where your aesthetic choices directly impact the price. The kitchen cabinet resurfacing price is heavily dependent on the quality and type of materials used for the doors, drawer fronts, and any new veneers.

Cabinet Doors & Drawer Fronts:
- Solid Wood (Maple, Cherry, Oak): These are the most premium options, offering durability and a beautiful natural grain. Expect higher costs.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) with Veneer or Laminate: A more budget-friendly choice. MDF is stable and paints well. Veneers offer a wood look without the solid wood price tag. High-quality laminates can mimic wood or offer a sleek, modern finish.
- Thermofoil: A cost-effective option where a vinyl film is applied over MDF. It’s durable and easy to clean but can be prone to peeling or damage from heat over time.
- Painted vs. Stained: Painted finishes can be more labor-intensive for a professional job, potentially increasing costs. Stains highlight wood grain and can be more straightforward.
Veneers for Exposed Cabinet Box Sides: If the sides of your cabinets are visible, they’ll likely need a new veneer to match your new doors and drawer fronts. The cost depends on the veneer material.
Hardware: New knobs, pulls, and hinges can significantly update the look. Prices vary wildly from basic functional hardware to designer pieces.
Additional Features: If you’re adding new molding, decorative trim, or drawer slides, these will add to the overall cost.

3. Kitchen Size and Cabinet Quantity

The more cabinets you have, the more materials and labor will be required.

Average Kitchen: A standard-sized kitchen with 10-15 cabinet doors and 5-8 drawer fronts is a common benchmark.
Larger Kitchens: Expect to pay more for kitchens with more cabinetry.
Complex Cabinetry: Custom-shaped cabinets, glass inserts, or specialized finishes will also increase the cabinet refacing cost.

4. Type of Refacing Process

There are a few ways to achieve a refaced look:

Veneer Refacing: This is the most common method. A thin layer of wood veneer is applied over the existing cabinet frames, and new doors and drawer fronts are installed. This is often what people refer to when they talk about cabinet refacing.
Laminate Refacing: Similar to veneer refacing, but a durable laminate material is used instead of wood veneer. This is often more budget-friendly and offers a sleek, modern look.
Paint or Stain Refacing: This involves professionally cleaning, sanding, priming, and painting or staining your existing cabinet boxes and doors. While often referred to as refacing, it’s more accurately cabinet refinishing cost. The cabinet refinishing cost is typically lower than veneer or laminate refacing.
Cabinet Door Replacement: This is a component of refacing. If you are only replacing the doors and drawer fronts and not veneering the boxes, this is often referred to as cabinet door replacement cost. This can be a good option if your cabinet boxes are in excellent condition and you’re looking for a more budget-conscious upgrade.

Getting a Realistic Cabinet Refacing Estimate

To get an accurate cabinet refacing estimate, follow these steps:

Measure Your Kitchen: Accurately measure all your cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Note the style, size, and material of your current cabinets.
Research Material Costs: Browse online suppliers and local kitchen showrooms to get an idea of the prices for doors, drawer fronts, veneers, and hardware in your preferred styles and materials.
Get Multiple Quotes: Contact several reputable cabinet refacing companies or experienced contractors. Provide them with your measurements and material preferences.
Ask for Detailed Breakdowns: Ensure quotes clearly list material costs, labor costs, and any additional fees.
Check Reviews and References: Before committing, research the company’s reputation and ask for references from past clients.

Budgeting Your Kitchen Cabinet Makeover

Let’s look at some potential budget ranges for a typical kitchen. These are averages and can fluctuate based on the factors discussed.

Average Cost to Reface Cabinets Breakdown

Item	Estimated Cost Range (Low)	Estimated Cost Range (High)	Notes
Cabinet Doors & Drawer Fronts	$2,000	$6,000	Based on material (MDF, wood, laminate) and complexity of style.
Veneers for Cabinet Boxes	$500	$1,500	Cost varies with material and coverage needed.
New Hinges & Hardware	$200	$800	Depends on style and quantity of hardware.
Labor (Professional Install)	$1,500	$3,000	Varies by company, location, and kitchen size.
Total Estimated Cost	$4,200	$11,300	This is a broad average.

Additional Costs to Consider:

Molding & Trim: $100 – $500
New Drawer Slides (Soft-Close): $100 – $400
Professional Cleaning & Prep: $100 – $300
Permits (if required): Varies by locality.

DIY Cabinet Refacing: Saving Money, Gaining Sweat Equity

If you’re handy, a DIY cabinet refacing project can significantly reduce costs.

Material Costs (DIY): You’ll still be paying for doors, drawer fronts, veneers, and hardware, but you eliminate the labor charges. This could save you $1,500 to $4,000 or more.
Tool Costs: Ensure you have the necessary tools (tape measure, caulk gun, screwdriver, possibly a nail gun, sander, safety gear). Renting or purchasing tools can add to the initial outlay.
Time Investment: Be prepared to dedicate a significant amount of time to preparation, installation, and finishing. Rushing can lead to mistakes.

DIY Cost Breakdown Example:

Doors & Drawer Fronts: $1,500 – $4,000
Veneers: $300 – $1,000
Hardware & Hinges: $100 – $500
Supplies (adhesives, finishes, etc.): $100 – $300
Total DIY Estimated Cost: $2,000 – $5,800

This shows a potential saving of $2,000 to $5,500 compared to professional installation.

The Impact of Materials on Kitchen Cabinet Resurfacing Price

The choice of materials has a profound impact on the kitchen cabinet resurfacing price.

Solid Wood Options

Maple: Durable, fine grain, takes stain well, can be painted. Generally mid-to-high price range.
Cherry: Beautiful rich color, smooth grain, ages gracefully. One of the more expensive wood options.
Oak: Strong, prominent grain, classic look. Can be stained or painted. More affordable than maple or cherry.

Engineered Wood & Laminate Options

MDF with Wood Veneer: A popular choice for its stability and affordability. The veneer provides the look of real wood. The cost of refacing kitchen cabinets with this option is generally lower than solid wood.
MDF with Laminate: Offers a wide range of finishes, from wood grain patterns to solid colors. Laminate is durable and easy to clean, making it a practical and budget-friendly choice.
Thermofoil: The most budget-friendly option. Vinyl film applied over MDF. Can be prone to damage and difficult to repair.

Cabinet Door Replacement Cost Factors

When you’re just looking at cabinet door replacement cost, the price per door will vary based on:

Material: Solid wood doors will cost more than MDF or thermofoil.
Style: Slab doors are typically the least expensive, while raised panel or Shaker styles can cost more.
Finish: Doors that come pre-primed and ready for you to paint might be cheaper than those with a factory finish.
Size: Larger doors naturally cost more.

Example Door Pricing (per door):

Thermofoil Slab: $20 – $50
MDF Shaker Style (Primed): $40 – $80
Solid Wood Shaker Style (Unfinished): $80 – $150+
Solid Wood Raised Panel (Finished): $120 – $250+

Cabinet Refinishing Cost: A Different Approach

It’s important to differentiate refacing from refinishing. Cabinet refinishing cost typically refers to the process of sanding down your existing cabinet doors and frames and applying a new paint or stain.

DIY Refinishing: This can be a very economical option if you’re willing to put in the effort. Sandpaper, primer, paint or stain, brushes, rollers, and sealants are relatively inexpensive. The main cost is your time and labor.
Professional Refinishing: Hiring a professional painter experienced with cabinets will yield a much smoother and more durable finish. Costs can range from $50 to $150 per linear foot, or a flat rate per cabinet door. For a full kitchen, this could be $2,000 to $6,000+.

Key Differences:

Refacing: Replaces visible surfaces with new materials (doors, drawer fronts, veneers).
Refinishing: Updates the existing surfaces through sanding, painting, or staining.

While refinishing is a great way to update, it doesn’t change the style of the doors themselves. If you have dated door styles (like arch-top doors), refacing or replacing them is the only way to change that.

Is Cabinet Refacing Worth It?

To determine if the cost of refacing kitchen cabinets is worth it for you, consider these points:

Return on Investment (ROI): Cabinet refacing can significantly increase your home’s resale value. It’s one of the most impactful kitchen updates you can make.
Budget Constraints: If a full remodel is out of reach, refacing offers a substantial visual upgrade for a fraction of the cost.
Desired Outcome: If you’re happy with your current kitchen layout and simply want a more modern or updated look, refacing is an excellent solution.

Refacing Cabinets vs. Replacing: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Refacing Cabinets	Replacing Cabinets
Cost	40-60% of replacement cost	Higher
Disruption	Minimal	Significant
Time	Faster (typically 1-3 weeks)	Slower (typically 3-8 weeks)
Cabinet Boxes	Retained (must be in good condition)	Replaced
Style Change	Limited to door/drawer front style	Complete customization possible
Layout Changes	Not possible	Possible
Waste	Less	More
Material Options	Veneers, laminates, new doors/drawer fronts	Full range of cabinet construction materials

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabinet Refacing

Q1: How long does cabinet refacing typically take?

A: Professional cabinet refacing usually takes between 1 to 3 weeks from start to finish, depending on the size of your kitchen and the complexity of the project.

Q2: Can I paint over existing cabinet finishes?

A: While you can paint over existing finishes, it’s usually considered cabinet refinishing, not refacing. For a durable and professional-looking result, proper preparation (cleaning, sanding, priming) is crucial.

Q3: What’s the difference between cabinet refacing and cabinet resurfacing?

A: These terms are often used interchangeably. Generally, “refacing” implies replacing the visible surfaces like doors and drawer fronts with new materials, while “resurfacing” can encompass veneering, painting, or staining the existing surfaces.

Q4: What is the average cost to reface cabinets for a small kitchen?

A: For a small kitchen (e.g., 10 cabinets), you might expect the cabinet refacing cost to be on the lower end of the average range, perhaps $3,000 to $6,000.

Q5: Who is the best person to hire for cabinet refacing?

A: Look for experienced cabinet makers, specialized refacing companies, or general contractors with a strong portfolio in kitchen renovations. Always check reviews and ask for references.

Q6: What are the most durable materials for refacing kitchen cabinets?

A: High-quality wood veneers (like maple or cherry) and durable laminates tend to be the most durable options for refacing, especially for doors and drawer fronts.

Q7: Does refacing cabinets include replacing the hinges?

A: It often does, or at least provides the option to upgrade to new, often soft-close, hinges. It’s important to clarify this in your cabinet refacing estimate.

Q8: Can I reface my cabinets if they are laminate or painted?

A: Yes, you can often reface laminate or painted cabinets by applying new veneers or laminate over the existing boxes, and then installing new doors and drawer fronts.

Q9: What is the cost of cabinet door replacement alone?

A: The cabinet door replacement cost can range from a few hundred dollars for basic DIY kits to several thousand for custom, solid wood doors for an entire kitchen.

Q10: Is cabinet refacing cheaper than buying new cabinets?

A: In most cases, yes. The cabinet refacing cost is typically 40-60% less than the cost of brand new cabinets.

By carefully considering your options, understanding the cost breakdown, and getting accurate estimates, you can successfully achieve a beautiful kitchen cabinet makeover without breaking the bank.