How Much Does Refacing Kitchen Cabinets Cost? Is It Worth It?

The average cost to reface kitchen cabinets varies significantly based on the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. Refacing typically involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, and applying a new veneer to the existing cabinet boxes. This is often a cheaper alternative to a full kitchen remodel. But is it worth it? This article breaks down the kitchen cabinet refacing cost, helping you decide if it’s the right solution for your needs.

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Decoding the Cost of Refacing Cabinets

The cabinet refacing price depends on several factors. Let’s examine them:

Material Matters: Choosing the Right Veneer & Doors

The materials you select for your veneer and cabinet doors have the most significant impact on the overall kitchen cabinet refacing cost.

• Laminate: This is the most affordable option. Laminate veneers are durable and easy to clean, making them ideal for budget-conscious homeowners. Expect to pay the least when choosing laminate.

• Wood Veneer: Offers a more natural look and feel than laminate. Real wood veneer comes in various species and can be stained or painted. This is a mid-range price point for refacing.

• Solid Wood: While more expensive, solid wood provides the most luxurious appearance and can be custom-made. Solid wood refacing is the most expensive option.

• Rigid Thermofoil (RTF): A seamless vinyl material that is heat-molded onto MDF (medium-density fiberboard). It provides a clean, modern look and is resistant to chipping.

Cabinet door replacement cost also varies depending on material. Stock doors are more affordable than custom-made doors. Styles like Shaker or slab doors are usually cheaper than intricate raised-panel designs.

The Size Factor: Kitchen Dimensions & Layout

Larger kitchens with more cabinets will naturally cost more to reface. The kitchen refacing cost per linear foot is a common metric used by contractors. The complexity of the layout also plays a role. Islands, peninsulas, and corner cabinets can add to the overall project cost.

Table: Estimated Refacing Costs by Kitchen Size

Kitchen Size	Linear Feet of Cabinets	Estimated Cost (Laminate)	Estimated Cost (Wood Veneer)	Estimated Cost (Solid Wood)
Small	10-15	$1,000 – $2,250	$2,000 – $4,500	$3,000 – $6,750
Medium	20-25	$2,000 – $3,750	$4,000 – $7,500	$6,000 – $11,250
Large	30-35	$3,000 – $5,250	$6,000 – $10,500	$9,000 – $15,750

These are just estimates. Actual costs will vary based on location, materials, and labor rates.

Professional Installation vs. DIY: Labor & Expertise

Hiring a professional ensures a high-quality finish and can save you time and potential headaches. However, it also adds to the overall refacing kitchen cabinets labor cost. The labor cost can range from 40% to 60% of the total project cost.

Alternatively, you can tackle the project yourself. A refacing cabinets DIY cost will be lower, but requires time, skill, and the right tools. If you’re inexperienced, mistakes can be costly.

Additional Costs: Hardware, Modifications, & Hidden Surprises

Don’t forget to factor in these potential extra costs:

• New Hardware: Handles, knobs, and hinges can significantly impact the look of your refaced cabinets.
• Modifications: Adding pull-out shelves, soft-close hinges, or other modifications will increase the cost.
• Unexpected Repairs: If your cabinet boxes are damaged, they may need to be repaired before refacing, adding to the overall expense.
• Disposal Fees: Removing and disposing of old cabinet doors and hardware may incur a fee.

Calculating Your Refacing Costs: Tools & Estimates

Several online resources can help you get a refacing cabinets cost estimate:

• Online Cost Calculators: Many websites offer free calculators. You input details about your kitchen size, materials, and project scope to get an estimated cost range. Remember that these are just estimates and may not be entirely accurate.

• Professional Quotes: The best way to get an accurate estimate is to request quotes from several local contractors. They can assess your kitchen in person and provide a detailed breakdown of costs.

• The Linear Foot Method: Knowing that some pros charge a kitchen refacing cost per linear foot, measure the total length of your cabinets. Multiply that by the cost per linear foot to get an estimate. This method doesn’t account for the complexity of the job, so it is less accurate.

Creating Your Own Cabinet Refacing Cost Calculator

To create your own, use this formula:

(Material Costs + Labor Costs + Hardware Costs + Modification Costs + Contingency Fund) = Total Refacing Cost

• Material Costs: Research the price of your chosen veneer, cabinet doors, and drawer fronts.
• Labor Costs: Obtain quotes from multiple contractors to determine the refacing kitchen cabinets labor cost in your area. If DIY, factor in the cost of tools and materials.
• Hardware Costs: Choose your knobs, pulls, and hinges and calculate the total cost.
• Modification Costs: If you plan to add any modifications, such as pull-out shelves or soft-close hinges, add those costs here.
• Contingency Fund: Add 10-15% of the total cost to cover unexpected expenses.

Is Refacing Worth It? Comparing Costs & Benefits

Refacing is generally less expensive than replacing your kitchen cabinets. But how much less? And when does it make sense?

Cost of Refacing vs. Replacing Cabinets: A Head-to-Head Comparison

Replacing cabinets can easily cost two to three times as much as refacing. Complete cabinet replacement requires demolition, disposal, and installation of new cabinets. This often leads to additional expenses like plumbing and electrical work.

Refacing, on the other hand, reuses the existing cabinet boxes. This significantly reduces labor costs and material waste. Refacing is a cost-effective option if your existing cabinet boxes are in good condition and you’re happy with the current layout.

Table: Cost Comparison: Refacing vs. Replacing

Feature	Refacing	Replacing
Average Cost	$1,000 – $15,000	$4,000 – $30,000+
Disruption	Minimal	Significant
Project Timeline	1-5 days	1-4 weeks
Structural Changes	Limited	Extensive
Suitable For	Good cabinet boxes, same layout	Damaged boxes, new layout

When Refacing Makes Sense

Refacing is a good choice if:

• Your cabinet boxes are structurally sound and in good condition.
• You are satisfied with the current layout of your kitchen.
• You want to update the look of your kitchen without a full remodel.
• You’re on a budget and looking for a cost-effective solution.
• You want to minimize disruption to your home.

When Replacing is the Better Option

Consider replacing your cabinets if:

• Your cabinet boxes are damaged or deteriorated.
• You want to significantly change the layout of your kitchen.
• You want to add new features like a kitchen island or peninsula.
• You’re undertaking a complete kitchen renovation.
• Your budget allows for a more extensive project.

Saving Money on Your Refacing Project

Here are some tips to reduce the kitchen cabinet refacing cost:

• Choose Affordable Materials: Laminate and RTF are less expensive than wood veneer and solid wood.
• DIY What You Can: Handle the demolition and cleanup yourself to save on labor costs.
• Shop Around for Quotes: Get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you’re getting the best price.
• Consider Stock Doors: Stock cabinet doors are typically cheaper than custom-made doors.
• Reface in Stages: If you can’t afford to reface your entire kitchen at once, consider doing it in stages.
• Keep the Same Layout: Changing the layout of your kitchen will significantly increase the cost.

Potential Pitfalls to Avoid

• Ignoring Hidden Damage: Inspect your cabinet boxes carefully for water damage, rot, or insect infestations. Address any issues before refacing.
• Poor Installation: A poorly installed veneer can peel or bubble over time. Hire a qualified professional or take your time and follow instructions carefully if doing it yourself.
• Mismatched Colors: Ensure that the veneer and cabinet doors match perfectly. Order samples and compare them in your kitchen lighting.
• Cheap Hardware: Investing in quality hardware can improve the look and feel of your refaced cabinets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is refacing kitchen cabinets? Refacing involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts and applying a new veneer to the existing cabinet boxes.

• Can I reface my kitchen cabinets myself? Yes, you can reface your cabinets yourself if you have the necessary skills, tools, and time. However, professional installation is recommended for the best results.

• Who is the best person to hire for kitchen cabinet refacing? Look for experienced contractors with a good reputation and positive reviews. Ask for references and check their portfolio.

• How long does it take to reface kitchen cabinets? The timeline varies depending on the size of the kitchen and the complexity of the project. A typical refacing project takes 1-5 days.

• Does refacing add value to my home? Refacing can increase the value of your home by updating the look of your kitchen without the cost and disruption of a full remodel.

• What kind of maintenance is required for refaced cabinets? Refaced cabinets require minimal maintenance. Clean them regularly with a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals.

• Are there any disadvantages to refacing? Refacing is not suitable for cabinets with damaged or deteriorated boxes. It also does not allow for significant changes to the kitchen layout.