If you’re planning a kitchen remodel, one of the biggest changes you’ll make (and most likely the most expensive one) will be your kitchen cabinets.
And because they take a lot of space in your new kitchen, it’s impossible to overlook them or skip them entirely. Outdated cabinets will break the mood of your kitchen and it simply won’t match with every other upgrade you’re getting.
Refinishing kitchen cabinets is a great option if you’re planning to save up some money, keep your remodel within budget, or if the cabinets were fairly new and you simply don’t want to change them just yet.
Learn more about how to refinish kitchen cabinets below!
What Is Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
The refinishing process usually starts with taking the cabinet doors and drawer fronts off of the cabinet boxes. This will give you a good surface to work on and make it easier to apply the new finish.
After that, all of the old finish and paint needs to be removed. This can be done using a number of methods like sanding, scraping, or chemical stripping.
Once all of the old finish is gone, you’ll need to clean the surface thoroughly. Then, you’re ready to start applying the new finish.
According to KCMA, refinishing kitchen cabinets brings higher ROI than refacing or replacing cabinets.
Types Of Finishes
There are many different types of finishes that you can use, but you’ll need to choose one that is compatible with the type of wood you’re using. There are also many different colors and sheens to choose from, so you can create a look that’s perfect for your kitchen.
- For example, MDF cabinets (stock cabinets and semi-custom cabinets are usually made of MDF) take paint very well, so the best finishing method will be a fresh coat of paint.
- On the other hand, painting cabinets made of wood (these are usually custom cabinets) won't look as good with paint as they do with a fresh coat of stain. A sealant will also look great on wood cabinets.
Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets vs Replacing Kitchen Cabinets
There are a few reasons why refinishing kitchen cabinets is a better option than replacing them.
- First of all, refinishing is much more affordable than replacing. Replacing cabinets can be very expensive, especially if you have custom cabinets.
- Refinishing is also a less invasive option. When you replace your cabinets, you have to remove the old ones and install the new ones. This can be a lot of work, and it can also be messy.
- Refinishing is a much faster process. It usually only takes a few days to refinish your cabinets, whereas installing new cabinets can take weeks or even months if you count the manufacturing and shipping.
- Finally, refinishing will actually bring a higher ROI than buying new kitchen cabinets, so you'll recoup most of your investment upon selling the house.
Refinishing vs Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
Refinishing and refacing kitchen cabinets are two different ways of updating your cabinets. Both methods have their own advantages and disadvantages, so you’ll need to decide which one is right for you.
Kitchen cabinet refinishing is the process of removing the old finish and paint from your cabinets and then applying a new finish. This is a great option if you want to change the color or sheen of your cabinets, or if they’re in good condition but you just want a new look.
Refacing is the process of replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts with new ones. This is a great option if your cabinet boxes are in good condition but the doors and drawer fronts are outdated or damaged. If you’re going for a new kitchen style, you’ll need a new cabinet door style as well, which is where refacing is the better option.
- Refinishing kitchen cabinets is cheaper than replacing them, less invasive, and faster; but it doesn't offer as big of a transformation as replacing them.
- Refacing kitchen cabinets is more expensive than refinishing them, but more affordable than replacing. It's the middle option between refinishing and replacing, making it a versatile project that'll most likely end with complete satisfaction, especially when done by a pro.
The Cost Of Refinishing Cabinets Vs Refacing
The cost of refinishing kitchen cabinets can vary depending on the type of finish you choose, the total linear footage of cabinets, and the amount of labor required.
On average, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400 for a standard kitchen cabinet refinish. If you have a large kitchen with a lot of cabinets, the cost will be higher. If you choose a more specialized finish like a high-gloss or metallic finish, the cost will be higher as well.
If you hire a professional to do the job, the cost will be even higher. Expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $1,000 for a professional cabinet refinishing.
On average, the cost of refacing kitchen cabinets can range from $1,000 to $9,000 or more.
is refacing kitchen cabinets worth it
- Condition of Existing Cabinets: If your cabinets are structurally sound but have outdated or worn-out finishes, refacing can be a good option. Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and possibly the hardware, while the cabinet frames remain intact.
- Budget: Refacing is generally more budget-friendly than completely replacing cabinets. It can save you a significant amount of money compared to a full remodel.
- Time and Convenience: Refacing is typically quicker and less disruptive than a full cabinet replacement. If you want to update your kitchen without a lengthy renovation process, refacing can be a good choice.
- Layout and Functionality: If you're satisfied with the layout and functionality of your current cabinets, refacing can be a practical option. However, if you want to make major changes to the cabinet layout or storage options, a full cabinet replacement might be more appropriate.
- Aesthetics: Refacing allows you to change the look of your cabinets by choosing new door styles, finishes, and hardware. It's a great way to achieve a new aesthetic without starting from scratch.
- Long-Term Value: While refacing can enhance the appearance of your kitchen and improve its value, it may not add as much value as a full remodel. However, this depends on the overall condition and appeal of your kitchen.
- Resale Value: If you're considering selling your home in the near future, refacing can be a cost-effective way to improve the kitchen's appeal to potential buyers.
Conclusion
Needless to say, but refinishing cabinets is a great upgrade that’ll save you money and help get the kitchen remodel done sooner. It’s especially better if you’re not changing your kitchen design, but for a change of colors, this is by far your best bet.
While refacing and replacing kitchen cabinets are viable options, they’ll cost you more and won’t bring as much of an ROI.
Here at Pellak Construction, we’re kitchen remodeling professionals and offer our service throughout PA. You’ll find us in Springfield, Havertown, Broomall, Newtown Square, Bryn Mawr, and more of PA!
If you’re ready to refinish cabinets, call us today at (610) 543-2479 and let’s discuss your project!