How Much Does Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Cost?

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How Much Does Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Cost?

The cost to reface kitchen cabinets typically ranges from $1,000 to $15,000, with the average cabinet refacing cost falling between $5,000 and $8,000. This price depends on many factors, including the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and whether you hire professionals or do it yourself.

Refacing your kitchen cabinets is a fantastic way to give your kitchen a fresh, new look without the high expense and disruption of a full remodel. If your cabinet boxes are still in good shape, but the doors and drawer fronts are dated or worn out, refacing is an excellent option. It’s a smart investment that can significantly boost your home’s appeal and value.

Fathoming the Factors Influencing Cabinet Refacing Cost

Several elements play a crucial role in determining the overall cabinet refacing cost. Let’s break down the key contributors that will influence your final price tag.

Kitchen Size and Cabinet Quantity

The most straightforward factor affecting cabinet refacing prices is the size of your kitchen and the sheer number of cabinets you have. A larger kitchen with more cabinets naturally means more materials and more labor are required.

• Small Kitchens: Typically have fewer cabinets, leading to a lower overall cost.
• Medium Kitchens: A moderate number of cabinets, resulting in a mid-range price.
• Large Kitchens: More extensive cabinet setups will naturally incur higher costs.

When getting quotes, be sure to have a clear inventory of your existing cabinets, including upper cabinets, lower cabinets, pantry cabinets, and any specialty units.

Material Choices for Doors and Drawer Fronts

The type of material you select for your new cabinet doors and drawer fronts is a major driver of the cost to reface kitchen cabinets. Different materials offer varying aesthetics, durability, and price points.

Wood Veneers

• Description: Thin slices of real wood, offering the look and feel of solid wood at a lower cost. They are applied over the existing cabinet box or a new substrate.
• Pros: Natural beauty, wide variety of wood species (oak, maple, cherry, hickory), can be stained to match existing decor.
• Cons: Can be susceptible to moisture and temperature changes, may scratch or dent over time.
• Price Impact: Generally mid-range in terms of cost.

Laminate and Thermofoil

• Description: These are synthetic materials applied over a core material (like particleboard or MDF). Laminate is a layered material, while thermofoil is a vinyl film heated and molded onto the surface.
• Pros: Durable, resistant to moisture and stains, available in a vast array of colors and finishes (including wood grain patterns), easy to clean.
• Cons: Cannot be repainted or stained if you want to change the look later, can chip or peel, especially around edges or in high-heat areas like above the oven.
• Price Impact: Typically one of the most budget-friendly options.

Solid Wood

• Description: While true “refacing” often involves veneers or veneers over new doors, some companies offer solid wood doors and drawer fronts as part of a refacing package. This is essentially a high-end refacing or a partial replacement.
• Pros: Premium look and feel, highly durable, can be refinished or repainted multiple times.
• Cons: Most expensive option, can be heavier, may expand and contract with humidity changes.
• Price Impact: Significantly increases the overall cabinet refacing cost.

Other Materials (Acrylic, Metal, etc.)

• Description: These are more modern and often specialized materials that can add a unique design element.
• Pros: Contemporary aesthetics, can be very durable depending on the material.
• Cons: Can be expensive, may require specialized installation, limited availability compared to wood or laminates.
• Price Impact: Can vary widely but often fall into the higher cost bracket.

Hardware Selection (Knobs and Pulls)

While seemingly a small detail, the hardware you choose for your new doors and drawers can impact the final price.

• Budget-Friendly Options: Basic metal or plastic knobs and pulls.
• Mid-Range Options: More decorative metal finishes (brushed nickel, oil-rubbed bronze) and slightly more intricate designs.
• High-End Options: Custom-designed pulls, premium metals, or artisan pieces.

Most cabinet refacing prices will include a basic allowance for hardware, but upgrading to premium options will add to the total cost.

Labor Costs and Professional Installation

The average cabinet refacing cost will heavily depend on whether you hire professionals or opt for a DIY approach.

• Professional Installation:

  • Pros: Expertise ensures a high-quality finish, saves you time and effort, often comes with a warranty.
  • Cons: Adds significantly to the overall cabinet refacing cost.
  • What’s included: Removal of old doors/drawer fronts, application of new veneers or materials to cabinet boxes, installation of new doors and drawer fronts, often includes new hinges and hardware.

• DIY Installation:

  • Pros: Can significantly reduce the total cost of refacing cabinets.
  • Cons: Requires time, patience, and some carpentry skills, potential for mistakes if not done carefully, no professional warranty.
  • What you’ll need: Tools, materials, a good instructional guide or video.

When getting quotes from professionals, clarify what is included in their cabinet refacing cost. Does it include new hinges? Does it cover the cost of hardware? Are there any hidden fees?

Complexity of Your Cabinet Design

The style and configuration of your existing cabinets can also influence the cost to reface kitchen cabinets.

• Simple Slab Doors: Refacing these is generally more straightforward.
• Raised Panel or Recessed Panel Doors: These have more intricate designs that require more careful work to reface or match.
• Specialty Cabinets: Angled cabinets, corner units, or cabinets with decorative elements might incur additional labor charges.

Deciphering the Process: What’s Involved in Refacing?

Cabinet refacing isn’t just about slapping new doors on your existing cabinets. It’s a comprehensive process designed to give your kitchen a complete facelift.

Step 1: Preparation and Cleaning

• Emptying Cabinets: You’ll need to empty your cabinets and drawers to allow for access.
• Surface Cleaning: Existing cabinet boxes are thoroughly cleaned to remove grease, dirt, and grime. This ensures proper adhesion of new materials.

Step 2: Applying New Surfaces (Veneer or Laminate)

• Veneer Application: If you’ve chosen wood veneer, it’s carefully applied to the visible sides of your existing cabinet boxes and frames. This is a skilled process that requires precision to avoid bubbles or tears.
• Laminate/Thermofoil Application: Similar to veneer, these materials are adhered to the cabinet boxes, providing a fresh, uniform surface.

Step 3: New Doors and Drawer Fronts

• Ordering: New doors and drawer fronts are ordered to match your chosen style and material. They are custom-sized to fit your existing cabinet openings.
• Installation: New doors are attached with new hinges, and new drawer fronts are installed onto your existing drawer boxes.

Step 4: Hardware Installation

• Knobs and Pulls: New knobs and pulls are installed on the new doors and drawer fronts.

Step 5: Final Touches and Cleanup

• Adjustments: Hinges are adjusted for proper door alignment.
• Cleanup: The work area is cleaned, and you’re left with a beautifully updated kitchen.

Cost Comparison: Refacing vs. Other Options

When considering kitchen updates, refacing is often compared to other popular methods. Here’s a look at how cabinet refacing versus replacement cost stacks up, along with cabinet painting cost vs refacing.

Cabinet Refacing Versus Replacement Cost

• Cabinet Refacing: As discussed, typically ranges from $1,000 to $15,000. This process keeps your existing cabinet boxes.
• Cabinet Replacement: This involves completely removing your old cabinets and installing brand new ones.
  • Cost: Can range from $5,000 to $25,000 or even more, depending on the quality of the new cabinets, materials, and installation.
  • When it’s better: If your existing cabinet boxes are damaged, warped, or structurally unsound, replacement is the only viable option. It also offers the opportunity to change the layout of your kitchen.

Key Difference: Refacing is more cost-effective and less disruptive if your cabinet boxes are in good condition. Replacement offers a complete overhaul and the chance to redesign your kitchen’s layout.

Cabinet Painting Cost vs Refacing

• Cabinet Painting: This involves preparing, priming, and painting your existing cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and boxes.
  • Cost: Can range from $500 to $5,000, depending on DIY vs. professional and the complexity of the job.
  • Pros: Cheapest option, can dramatically change the look of your kitchen, allows for color changes.
  • Cons: Durability can be an issue if not done properly (chipping, scratching), the finish may not be as smooth or long-lasting as professionally applied veneers or laminates. The cabinet painting cost is appealing, but the longevity might not match refacing.

Key Difference: Painting is the most budget-friendly option for a cosmetic change. Refacing offers a more durable and higher-quality finish, effectively giving you “new” doors and drawer fronts.

Cabinet Door Replacement Cost

Sometimes, people consider just replacing the doors and drawer fronts without refacing the cabinet boxes. This is essentially a component of refacing.

• Cabinet Door Replacement Cost: This can range from $50 to $300 per door, depending on the material, style, and finish. If you’re only replacing a few doors or drawer fronts, this can be a more targeted approach.
• When it makes sense: If your cabinet boxes are in excellent condition and you only dislike the look of your current doors, this can be a cost-effective solution. However, you’ll still need to consider the finish and potential wear on the cabinet box surfaces.

Note: This is different from full refacing where the cabinet boxes are also covered with new material (veneer or laminate).

DIY vs. Professional: Making the Right Choice

Deciding whether to tackle cabinet refacing yourself or hire professionals involves weighing costs, time, and desired outcomes.

DIY Cabinet Refacing

• When to Consider: If you have woodworking experience, a good set of tools, and plenty of patience, a DIY approach can save you a significant amount of money. You’ll need to factor in the cost of materials, tools, and any potential mistakes.
• Considerations:
  • Accuracy: Measuring and cutting veneers or applying laminates requires precision.
  • Tools: You’ll need tools like a table saw, miter saw, router, sanders, and application tools for adhesives.
  • Time Commitment: This can be a very time-consuming project, often taking weeks or even months for a full kitchen.
  • Quality of Finish: Achieving a professional, seamless finish can be challenging.

Professional Cabinet Refacing

• When to Consider: If you value your time, want a guaranteed professional finish, and have the budget, hiring professionals is the way to go. Companies specializing in cabinet refacing cost estimate will handle the entire process.
• Benefits:
  • Expertise: Professionals have the skills and experience to ensure a flawless finish.
  • Time Savings: They can complete the project much faster than a DIYer.
  • Warranty: Many companies offer warranties on their workmanship and materials.
  • Access to Materials: They often have access to higher-quality materials and a wider selection.

Using a Cabinet Refacing Cost Estimator

To get a clearer idea of your project’s expenses, using a refacing kitchen cabinets cost estimator can be very helpful. These online tools or professional consultations will typically ask for information such as:

• The number of linear feet of cabinets you have.
• The types of cabinets (base cabinets, upper cabinets, pantry units).
• Your preferred material for doors and drawer fronts.
• The complexity of your cabinet door style.
• Your location (to factor in regional labor costs).

These estimators can provide a ballpark figure, but it’s always best to get multiple in-person quotes from reputable companies.

Beyond the Basics: Additional Costs to Anticipate

While the core cabinet refacing cost covers the main elements, there can be a few other expenses to consider:

• New Hinges and Slides: While some refacing packages include new, updated hinges, others may not. Consider upgrading to soft-close hinges for a more luxurious feel.
• Contrasting Veneers/Finishes: If you opt for different finishes for upper and lower cabinets, or for accent pieces, this can add to the material cost.
• Customization: Any custom modifications to your cabinet layout or door styles will increase the price.
• Removal and Disposal: If your old cabinet doors and drawer fronts are not reusable, you may incur a fee for their disposal.

Maximizing Your Refacing Investment

To ensure you get the most value from your cabinet refacing cost, consider these tips:

• Get Multiple Quotes: Shop around and compare prices from at least three different reputable refacing companies.
• Read Reviews: Check online reviews and ask for references from past clients.
• Clarify the Scope: Ensure the quote clearly outlines exactly what is included, from materials and labor to hardware and installation.
• Consider a Mid-Range Option: Often, the sweet spot for quality and value lies in mid-range materials like high-quality veneers or durable laminates.
• Focus on Quality: While cost is important, don’t sacrifice quality for a lower price. A well-done refacing job will last for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabinet Refacing

Q1: Is cabinet refacing a good value?
A1: Yes, cabinet refacing can be an excellent value, offering a significant aesthetic upgrade at a lower cost than full cabinet replacement. It’s ideal when your cabinet boxes are structurally sound.

Q2: How long does cabinet refacing typically take?
A2: Professional cabinet refacing usually takes about 1 to 2 weeks from start to finish. DIY projects can take much longer, potentially several weeks or months.

Q3: Can I reface all types of cabinets?
A3: Most types of cabinets can be refaced, as long as the cabinet boxes are in good condition. However, very old, damaged, or warped cabinets may not be suitable.

Q4: Will refacing change the layout of my kitchen?
A4: Cabinet refacing primarily changes the appearance of your cabinets, not their structure or layout. If you need to change the kitchen’s layout, you’ll need a full remodel involving cabinet replacement.

Q5: Is cabinet refacing durable?
A5: When done professionally with quality materials, cabinet refacing is very durable and can last for 10-15 years or more, similar to new cabinets. The durability depends heavily on the materials chosen and the quality of installation.

Q6: What is the difference between refacing and refinishing?
A6: Refinishing typically refers to sanding down existing cabinets and applying a new stain or paint. Refacing, on the other hand, involves applying new doors, drawer fronts, and often a new veneer or laminate to the cabinet boxes. Refacing is generally more extensive and results in a more dramatic transformation than refinishing.

Q7: How does cabinet refacing cost compare to custom cabinets?
A7: Cabinet refacing is almost always significantly less expensive than custom-built cabinets, which are made to order with precise specifications.

By carefully considering these factors and understanding the nuances of the process, you can confidently determine the cabinet refacing cost for your kitchen and make an informed decision that best suits your budget and design goals.