If you’re looking to refresh your kitchen cabinets without the hefty price tag of a complete remodel, cabinet refacing is an excellent choice. By opting for cabinet refacing, you can achieve a modern and updated appearance for your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a full renovation. However, it’s crucial to exercise caution when selecting a company to handle the refacing process. Be sure to steer clear of companies that utilize veneers. Here’s why:

What are Veneers?

To begin with, it is important to have a clear understanding of what veneers actually are. Veneers are crafted using thin sheets of wood or melamine, a type of plastic commonly referred to as thermofoil. In essence, either the wood or plastic material is affixed to particle board and subsequently applied to your cabinets. This process enhances both the appearance and functionality of your cabinets.

The Problem with Veneers

One of the main disadvantages of using veneers for cabinet refacing is their relatively low durability compared to other materials. Veneers, being thin coverings applied to the surface of cabinets, are susceptible to chipping and damage, particularly along the edges and corners. This can result in an unattractive appearance that detracts from the overall beauty of your kitchen. On the other hand, by refacing your cabinets with new, solid hardwood doors and drawer faces – as accomplished by N-Hance® – you can ensure the longevity and sturdiness that a kitchen truly requires. Our meticulous refacing process can withstand the demands of a busy kitchen and guarantee a high-quality finish.

More problems with using veneers for cabinet refacing are that they are prone to both chipping and water damage. Since veneers are thin coverings attached to the surface of the cabinets, moisture can easily get between the veneer and the cabinet, leading to warping and bubbles. These issues can be difficult to fix and can compromise the overall appearance and durability of your cabinets. 

The problems associated with veneers extend beyond that. Veneers are prone to cracking when exposed to varying elements and temperatures, like hot water or grease. This can result in the veneers expanding at a different rate than the underlying wood.

Despite the absence of visible surface damage, it is important to note that particle board, composed of inexpensive materials such as wood shavings and adhesive, is susceptible to easy damage. Its porous nature makes it prone to ripples, cracks, sagging, and more. Even if your cabinet veneers are affixed to plywood, they remain vulnerable to damage, particularly from moisture. While plywood may offer greater longevity compared to particle board, it is a hardwood that triumphs in durability, lasting for decades.

Tempted by the Cost of Veneers?

Do not fret! When you invest in your home, you desire exquisite outcomes. Over time, veneers may deteriorate, particularly if you have a bustling household and a kitchen bustling with activity. Though they may appear inexpensive at first, they can ultimately appear worse than your original cabinets.

If, on the other hand, you opt for a cabinet refacing company that relies on hardwood and remakes your cabinets doors and drawer fronts from scratch, like we do at N-Hance, you’ll wind up with a superior product. 

As the saying goes, “you get what you pay for,” and this holds true for cabinet refacing. Plus, you can still save significantly when compared to a full replacement. 

Ready for a Better Choice?

At N-Hance, we specialize in using high-quality solid hardwood to transform kitchen cabinets. With a wide array of styles, colors, and finishing techniques to choose from, we offer endless possibilities for customization. But that’s not all. Our innovative Lightspeed® Nano system cures the coating, ensuring a durable, rock-hard surface that won’t crack or peel, even with heavy use and constant traffic in your home. Experience the perfect blend of functionality and beauty with our cabinet refacing solutions.

In addition, N-Hance of Mid-Hudson Valley can provide a selection of custom accessories and hardware, from soft-close drawer glides to knobs, pulls, glass cabinets, crown molding, wine racks, shelves, and dovetail drawer boxes. Your cabinets will look brand new and completely different with help from our team of refacing experts. N-Hance offers cabinet refacing in Wappingers Falls, Hopewell Junction, Mahopac, and more.

Want a quality look at a fraction of the cost of a traditional remodel? The cabinet refacing team at N-Hance can deliver. Call N-Hance of Mid-Hudson Valley at 888-474-8442 to set up a FREE consultation.