How To Update Your Kitchen Cabinets for Less

Kitchen remodels are one of the most expensive home renovation projects a homeowner can undergo. It involves the upgrade of cabinets, lighting, flooring, countertops, fixtures and appliances. With all of these pricey items to purchase, why not try saving some serious cash with cabinet refacing?


What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Refacing kitchen cabinets requires the removal of cupboard doors and drawer fronts. After they have been sanded, a new stain is applied to the surfaces. New hinges, handles and drawer pulls should also be installed.


This process involves one to two days of work and entails:


  • Removing the existing cabinet doors, drawers and fronts
  • Covering the cabinet boxes’ front portions with natural wood veneer or RTF
  • Stripping the cabinets with wood veneer or laminate
  • Placing new hinges
  • Applying stain to doors, drawers and fronts
  • Re-installing the dry pieces 
  • Adding new hardware

If you choose to resurface your cabinets, you can achieve a totally different look for a fraction of the price of purchasing brand new cabinetry. Although this project can be accomplished by a novice, it is labor-intensive and time-consuming, so it may be best left to the professionals.


Can Your Cabinets Be Resurfaced?

Though cabinet refacing is an economical way to revamp a kitchen, some cupboards may need to be replaced altogether. Pieces that are damaged or rotted may be unsalvagable. If you are unsure whether you can reface your kitchen cupboards, consider asking an expert for their opinion.


Additionally, homeowners seeking to change the layout of their kitchen will need to replace the cabinets rather than resurface them. For example, you cannot change the position of a sink or oven and keep your existing cupboards.


Before shelling out thousands of dollars on brand-new cabinets, contemplate refacing the ones you already have. If you are unsure whether you are a candidate for cabinet refacing, consider contacting a professional to help you get started.