Refacing VS Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Refacing Vs Replacing

Refacing is often the less inexpensive option. However, the cost depends on the extent of refacing that you wish to do; is it a simple paint job or will all the doors, drawer faces, and doorknobs also need to be changed. The best way to decide is to do a cost comparison between refacing and replacing, for the extent of work that you have in mind.

In general, refacing the kitchen cabinets can lead to a 30-50% saving over replacing them. Both take approximately the same amount of time, it can vary from 2-5 days. Also, compare costs between companies that provide refacing services, costs vary with the materials used and the location of your home. The process of refacing does not involve tearing out the existing structures, such as the sink, the countertops, emptying the cabinets, nor does it affect the plumbing. You can still use your kitchen. This is not the case with replacing the cabinets; the kitchen becomes off-limits during construction.

Replacing is often the only alternative if you want to change the layout or the size of your kitchen. Whether you replace or reface your cabinets, it is on of the best ways to add to the resale value of your house.

How long does it take to reface?

Most refacing projects can be carried out in less than a week. The time varies with the number of cabinets and doors to be refaced, the intricacy of the refacing process and the skill level of the workers. If you plan to install additional features such as low voltage lighting, that adds to the time as well.

Can refacing of kitchen cabinets be undertaken as a Do It Yourself project?

Yes, cabinet refacing can be done by enthusiastic do-it-yourselfers. Since the process does not require any major electrical work, tiling, or removal of existing appliances, a cabinet refacing project is ideal even for those who have little experience. Applying veneer to the cabinet frames is not difficult. The veneer is peel and apply or has to be ironed on to the surface. Care needs to be taken that the surface of the cabinet frames is clean. You have to decide the extent of refacing that you wish to do, it can involve painting the cabinet doors, all the cabinets in the kitchen, installing new drawer hardware, hidden hinges, etc.

To do cabinet refacing yourself, all you need is some elementary wood working skills and the necessary tools.