“To replace your cabinets or to refinish them, that is the question.”
Don’t worry I’m not going to bore you with some silly Shakespearian poem about cabinets. But, whether you’re trying to spiff up you’re kitchen or are completely renovating the question whether to replace or refinish your cabinets is something all renovators are faced with.
It is said that replacing cabinets can cost you up to 50% of your renovation budget and possibly even more if you want something that lasts longer and functions better. However, if you don’t have a big budget to begin with or you already like the style of your cabinets then refinishing your cabinets is the way to go. In this short article you will find a couple simple tips and considerations that will help you find you’re conclusion to this age old question.
1. There are three different approaches you can take to refinishing
Those are I. paint existing cabinet and drawer fronts II. Install new wood or laminate veneer over existing cabinet and drawer fronts III. Install completely new cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
Choosing which method can tricky but if budget is the main reason you’re choosing to refinish then the obvious choice is to paint existing cabinet and drawer fronts. That would be our specialty!
Without trying to sound like a TV Infomercial I’ll save you some time and say that we have a unique refinishing process that stands out against competitors. Why you ask? Our cabinet renewal process only takes 1 day to complete (on most jobs), it’s cost effective and is environmentally safe. Click Here to get a full run down on the cabinet renewal services we provide.
2. Don’t judge a book by its cover
Now while the outside of the cabinet is always a mandatory aspect to the refinish or replace decision another thing to consider is the interior design of the cabinet. Do you want rotating shelves, pull out drawers or something as simple as a new interior finish?
3. Refinishing saves you dinero which makes you a happy camper
Refinishing will always be a money saver. In some cases 50% in comparison to replacement! Did I mention it’ll save you money? That’s money saved for awesome things like granite counter tops or one of those snazzy touch on sinks that you always see on TV. Along with being a money saver it’s worth adding that refinishing is always the more environmentally-friendly option because you’re saving our forests by choosing not to buy new cabinets. Which really does make you a happier camper!
4. Considering Quality
Now in a lot of cases refinishing is the best way to go. But, if you’re renovating an old home and the cabinets have rotting wood, cracks or are made out of low quality material then you’re best option could be replacing.
Choosing quality over quantity is always the best option because you’ll be using your cabinets frequently and you’ll want something that can withstand the usage.
For more information about Selecting the best wood cabinets check out this article by the National Kitchen and Bath Association. Click Here
5. Open Everything Up
A more uncommon alternative with older cabinetry is to remove the cabinet doors altogether and have the interior reconfigured for a modern and updated look.
However, in this case functionality such as the depth of the cabinets, the sturdiness of the cabinet frames etc. it may be best to just start over depending on the cabinets you’re working with.
Wrapping it up
At the end of the day it’s all up to preference and budget. Sometimes the best way to get clarity is to speak to a Pro. If you have any questions about your cabinets or are in need of our renewal services please don’t hesitate to call!