With spring here, you might be looking to freshen up your home. If your kitchen cabinets need an upgrade, there are a range of options to explore and evaluate, from a complete replacement to simply refacing. Where do you even begin? While your decision rests on many factors, refacing cabinets can be a cost-effective way to get a completely transformed space. Here’s why and when it makes sense.

The Cost of Cabinet Refacing 

Cabinet refacing is an affordable way to remodel your cabinets, so they look new, for a fraction of the price of a replacement. On average, the cost for refacing vs. replacing is 40-50% less when using wood (as opposed to veneers) to reface. This is simply because there’s less material and less labor involved. It’s why this option is so attractive to homeowners. Veneers cost even less but don’t last as long and will show signs of wear and tear quickly.  

Since cabinet refacing is more cost-friendly when compared to replacing, you might have additional money left in your budget for other updates. This can include new appliances, adding a backsplash, replacing countertops, or refinishing your hardwood floors. You’ll be able to get a beautiful, sophisticated kitchen in a way that’s more flexible and financially comfortable. 

When Cabinet Refacing Makes Sense 

With all that said, cabinet refacing isn’t for everybody. To ensure refacing is the right choice for you and your home, there are a few factors to keep in mind. For instance, some situations where cabinet refacing makes sense include:

  • Your kitchen layout is well-designed. With cabinet refacing, you’re not able to move cabinets around or change the layout of your kitchen. You can add touches, such as a pull out trash and recycling bin; however, you’re not able to change the footprint of the space. If you like the layout, though, then refacing is an ideal way to improve your kitchen cabinets substantially. 
  • You’re on a budget. If your budget is on the conservative side, refacing your cabinets offers the best of both worlds. You can get an option that is truly affordable and also transforms your kitchen cabinets so they look like they just arrived from the factory. 
  • You want a fast turnaround. A full replacement is a big and complicated project. You’re going to have to live without a functioning kitchen for weeks. If you reface instead, you can get fully upgraded cabinets in a matter of a few days. You can still use your kitchen in the meantime, leading to minimal disruption to your family and your life. 

Another major benefit of cabinet refacing is the many options you still have. You can choose from a wide range of door styles and also further customize your cabinets by adding crown molding on the upper cabinets, or opt for techniques, like glazing and antiquing. You can also choose from a range of colors, from classic white to blues, greens, black and more. 

Beyond door style and color, there are other ways to further set your space apart and make it more functional for you. You can add cushion-close hinges, updated hardware, pull-outs, and tray inserts. You can even reface your kitchen cabinets in one color and change your island to another color. Your kitchen will not only look more sophisticated, but it will feel like new when you’re using it thanks to the many changes available through the refacing process. 

If the cost of cabinet refacing is on the high side, there is another option to consider: cabinet painting.  While you won’t be able to change the design of your doors, you can opt for a completely different color and even choose finishing techniques that will transform your cabinets in a budget-friendly way. 

When Cabinet Replacement Makes Sense 

There are certain situations where you might want to consider a full replacement. While it will certainly cost more, it would provide you with a final result you’ll be happier with.

For instance, if the layout of your kitchen is cluttered and dysfunctional, renovating makes sense. This will give you the ability to do away with the current footprint of the space and design something brand new, that works for your life. You can add that center island you’ve always wanted or create a built-in desk where the kids can do homework. In terms of the layout, you’ll have more opportunities to make the space function for you and your family.

Another consideration is the condition of your cabinets. Refacing is a great option if the cabinets are in good shape and well-constructed. If, however, there’s serious water damage, rotting or other problems like warping, then tearing them out and replacing them with new cabinets is the better alternative. When cabinets are damaged, refacing can improve the look of them for a short period of time. However, you’ll eventually have to replace them if they were not in good condition in the first place.

Get a Free Cabinet Refacing Estimate from N-Hance®

If you’re not sure which option is right for you and your budget, we encourage you to give us a call and set up a free consultation. We can provide recommendations and also give you a free estimate, so you know what to expect in terms of costs with cabinet refacing. 

We’ll also give you a more specific timeframe for turnaround once we know the unique specifications of your space and the door style, color and finishing touches you’d like to add. You’ll have the details you need to make the best decision moving forward. 

If you’d like to learn more about refacing cabinets and the associated costs, call your local N-Hance at (855) 642-6230 today to set up a FREE design consultation.