How Much Does Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Cost? A 2024 Guide

The average cost to reface kitchen cabinets typically ranges from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. This comprehensive guide will break down all the factors that influence the cabinet refacing price, helping you estimate your kitchen remodel cost with refacing and make informed decisions.

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What is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?

Kitchen cabinet refacing involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts of your existing cabinets and applying a new veneer to the exposed cabinet boxes. It’s a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh, new look without the expense and disruption of a full cabinet replacement.

Decoding the Factors Influencing Cabinet Refacing Cost

Several factors determine the final cabinet refacing price. Let’s explore each one:

Kitchen Size and Layout

Larger kitchens with more cabinets will naturally cost more to reface. The complexity of the layout also plays a role. Cabinets in hard-to-reach areas or those with unusual shapes may require more labor and specialized materials, increasing the overall cost.

Material Selection: A Key Driver of Cost

The materials you choose for your new cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and veneer significantly impact the total cabinet refacing materials cost. Here’s a breakdown of common options and their relative prices:

• Laminate: Laminate is a budget-friendly option that offers a wide range of colors and patterns. It’s durable and easy to clean but may not have the same high-end look as other materials.

• Wood Veneer: Wood veneer provides a more natural wood appearance. It’s a thin layer of real wood applied over a core material. Prices vary depending on the wood species.

• Solid Wood: Solid wood is the most expensive option, but it offers the highest quality and durability. Popular choices include maple, oak, cherry, and walnut.

• Rigid Thermofoil (RTF): RTF is a durable vinyl material that is heat-fused to a fiberboard core. It’s resistant to scratches and moisture, making it a good option for kitchens.

• Painted Finishes: Whether you opt for wood or another material, painted finishes can add a personalized touch. The cost will depend on the type of paint, number of coats, and whether you choose a professional application.

Labor Costs: DIY vs. Professional Installation

You can save money by tackling the project yourself, but professional installation ensures a high-quality finish and can save you time and potential headaches. Professional cabinet refacing quotes will include the cost of labor, which can vary depending on the contractor’s experience, location, and the complexity of the job.

Additional Features and Customization

Adding features like soft-close hinges, new handles and knobs, or custom moldings will increase the overall cost. Consider these extras when budgeting for your refacing project.

Delving into the Numbers: Average Cabinet Refacing Costs

To give you a clearer idea of what to expect, here’s a breakdown of the average cost to reface kitchen cabinets based on kitchen size and material choice:

Table 1: Estimated Cabinet Refacing Costs by Kitchen Size

Kitchen Size	Average Number of Cabinets	Average Cost (Laminate)	Average Cost (Wood Veneer)	Average Cost (Solid Wood)
Small	10	$1,000 – $2,500	$2,000 – $4,000	$3,500 – $6,000
Medium	20	$2,000 – $5,000	$4,000 – $8,000	$7,000 – $12,000
Large	30+	$3,000 – $7,500	$6,000 – $12,000	$10,500 – $18,000+

Note: These are just estimates. Actual costs may vary.

Table 2: Average Cost per Linear Foot for Cabinet Refacing

Material	Average Cost per Linear Foot
Laminate	$80 – $150
Wood Veneer	$150 – $300
Solid Wood	$300 – $600+
Rigid Thermofoil	$100 – $200

Note: Linear foot includes both upper and lower cabinets.

You can use a kitchen cabinet refacing cost estimator online to get a more personalized estimate, but remember that these are just starting points. Getting quotes from local contractors is the best way to get an accurate assessment of your project’s cost.

DIY vs. Professional Refacing: Weighing the Pros and Cons

DIY Cabinet Refacing: A Cost-Saving Option?

Can I save money by refacing my cabinets myself? Yes, you can potentially save a significant amount on labor costs. However, DIY refacing requires a certain level of skill and experience. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons:

Pros:

• Lower cost (primarily materials)
• Control over the project timeline
• Personal satisfaction

Cons:

• Requires DIY skills and tools
• Time-consuming
• Potential for mistakes that could increase costs
• No warranty on the work

The DIY cabinet refacing cost will mainly consist of the cabinet refacing materials cost. You’ll need to factor in the cost of new doors, drawer fronts, veneer, adhesive, hardware, and any tools you need to purchase.

Professional Cabinet Refacing: Expertise and Peace of Mind

Hiring a professional ensures a high-quality finish and can save you time and stress. Here’s a look at the advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• Professional results
• Expertise and experience
• Warranty on the work
• Saves you time and effort

Cons:

• Higher cost (includes labor)
• Less control over the project timeline
• Requires research to find a reputable contractor

Navigating the Cost of Refacing vs. Replacing

The cost of refacing vs replacing cabinets is a crucial consideration. Refacing is generally less expensive than replacing, but it’s not always the best option.

When Refacing Makes Sense:

• Your existing cabinet boxes are in good condition.
• You like the current kitchen layout.
• You want to save money.
• You want a quicker and less disruptive renovation.

When Replacing Makes Sense:

• Your existing cabinet boxes are damaged or deteriorating.
• You want to change the kitchen layout.
• You want to upgrade to new cabinet features or styles that aren’t available with refacing.
• You have a larger budget and are willing to invest in a more extensive renovation.

Here’s a general refacing cabinets cost comparison:

• Refacing: Typically costs 30-50% less than replacement.
• Replacing: Can cost twice as much or more than refacing.

Identifying Affordable Options: Cheap Cabinet Refacing Options

Looking for cheap cabinet refacing options? Here are some strategies to save money:

• Choose laminate or RTF materials: These are generally more affordable than wood veneer or solid wood.
• DIY as much as possible: Handle tasks like removing old hardware and painting cabinet boxes yourself.
• Keep the existing layout: Avoid making changes that require additional carpentry work.
• Shop around for materials: Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals.
• Consider unfinished cabinet doors: Buy unfinished doors and paint or stain them yourself.
• Focus on a limited area: Reface only the most visible cabinets to reduce the overall cost.

The Refacing Process: What to Expect

The cabinet refacing process typically involves these steps:

1. Consultation and Measurement: A contractor will assess your kitchen and provide a quote.
2. Material Selection: Choose your new cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and veneer.
3. Preparation: The contractor will remove the old doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. They will also clean and prepare the cabinet boxes for the new veneer.
4. Veneer Application: The new veneer is applied to the exposed cabinet boxes.
5. Installation: The new doors, drawer fronts, and hardware are installed.
6. Final Touches: The contractor will make any necessary adjustments and clean up the work area.

Finding the Right Professional: Gathering Cabinet Refacing Quotes

Getting multiple professional cabinet refacing quotes is essential to ensure you’re getting a fair price and quality workmanship. Here are some tips for finding the right contractor:

• Get at least three quotes: This will give you a good idea of the average cost in your area.
• Check references: Ask for references from previous clients and contact them to get their feedback.
• Read online reviews: See what other customers have to say about the contractor’s work.
• Verify licensing and insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and insured to protect yourself from liability.
• Get a written contract: The contract should clearly outline the scope of work, materials, timeline, and payment schedule.

What Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Refacing Professional?

Before you hire a professional to reface your cabinets, ask these questions:

• Are you licensed and insured?
• How long have you been in business?
• Do you offer a warranty on your work?
• Can you provide references from previous clients?
• What is your estimated timeline for the project?
• What is included in your quote?
• What type of materials do you recommend for my kitchen?
• How will you protect my kitchen during the refacing process?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• How long does cabinet refacing take? Most refacing projects take between 3 to 5 days to complete, depending on the size and complexity of the kitchen.

• Will I be able to use my kitchen during the refacing process? You will likely have limited access to your kitchen during the refacing process. The contractor will try to minimize disruption, but you may need to make alternative arrangements for cooking and meal preparation.

• Is cabinet refacing environmentally friendly? Refacing is a more environmentally friendly option than replacing cabinets because it reuses the existing cabinet boxes, reducing waste.

• Does refacing add value to my home? Yes, a well-done refacing project can increase the value of your home by updating the look of your kitchen.

• How do I maintain refaced cabinets? Clean your refaced cabinets regularly with a mild soap and water solution. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish.

By carefully considering all the factors outlined in this guide, you can confidently estimate the kitchen cabinet refacing cost, choose the right materials and contractor, and achieve a beautiful and affordable kitchen transformation.