Pros and Cons of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
New look, same bones
Refacing is cheaper and faster than replacing your existing kitchen cabinets.
Holding on to your existing cabinet framework keeps it out of a landfill.
Your cabinet boxes must be structurally sound and level to reface them.
Refacing won’t change your cabinets’ layout or create more storage space.
Refacing costs range from $150 to $450 per linear foot, depending on the materials.
If your tired kitchen cabinets leave you yawning, a full replacement is not your only option. Refacing offers an affordable middle ground, giving your existing cabinetry a fresh new look without the price tag that comes with a complete gut job. Here, we break down the bolts, hinges, and knobs—here are the pros and cons of refacing kitchen cabinets.
What Is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?
If your current kitchen cabinets have good bones, refacing is an excellent option to get the new look you crave. Instead of ripping out your existing cabinetry to replace it, which is messy, costly, and time-consuming, a local cabinet refacing expert will apply a new veneer or laminate over your existing cabinets or replace the fronts. Typically, they will also update the hardware to complete the refresh. The entire process is more budget-conscious for homeowners than replacing your entire cabinetry.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Less expensive | Not a full upgrade |
| Faster than replacing | Functionality unchanged |
| More eco-friendly | Can’t reface bad boxes |
| Customizable | ROI not as high |
Pros of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
Homeowners have lots to appreciate when reusing their existing cabinets. Here is why it’s a popular choice for fast and impactful makeovers.
Less Expensive
Refacing your cabinets costs less than installing brand-new ones because it eliminates the labor costs of demoing old cabinets and preparing walls for the new installation.
That said, homeowners can expect their costs for cabinet refacing to hover between $4,230 and $10,230 based on the number of cabinets, the veneer and hardware selected, and local labor costs. In comparison, new cabinetry prices fall into the $2,010 and $11,060 range.
Faster Than Replacing
Replacing cabinets can take weeks or even months between choosing new cabinets, waiting on shipping, and scheduling installation. Pros can reface cabinets in just a few days, minimizing disruption and keeping your kitchen out of commission for far less time.
Eco-Friendly
If your cabinets are structurally sound, refacing is a more sustainable option that keeps the existing framework out of the landfill. That choice alone helps reduce the environmental impact of your kitchen upgrade.
Customizable
Refacing your cabinets might sound like you're settling or giving up on custom options, but that's far from the truth. Refacing offers plenty of design flexibility, whether you prefer modern flat fronts or shaker-inspired styles. Think of it as a makeover where you can refresh the paint color, swap out hardware, and even upgrade functionality with features like soft-close drawers or roll-out shelves.
Cons of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
While refacing is a fabulous way to refresh outdated kitchen cabinets, there are drawbacks, some of which could impact function and long-term value.
Not a Full Upgrade
We can't stress enough that refacing changes cabinet exteriors but leaves the interior untouched. Of course, you can add features like roll-out shelving, but refacing won't magically create more interior cabinet space. You will still have the same interior width, depth, and height.
Functionality Unchanged
Refacing is, for the most part, purely cosmetic. You won’t be able to reposition cabinets for better workflow or adjust your cabinets' height to make prep and cooking more ergonomic. Any functional frustrations with your current layout will remain part of your daily routine.
Can't Reface Bad Boxes
Unfortunately, damaged, warped, uneven, or poorly built cabinet boxes are not good candidates for refacing. Homeowners should remember that refacing is a cosmetic fix and will not repair deeper issues. If your cabinet frames are cracked, water damaged, or not level, it is best to start fresh with new cabinetry; it is a much better investment.
ROI Not as High
While refacing boosts visual appeal, it may not deliver the same return on investment as full cabinet replacement. Although you can upgrade certain features, like adding soft-close hardware, many homebuyers look beyond the surface, prioritizing modern, spacious designs made from high-end materials that improve kitchen layout and functionality.
Cabinet Refacing Alternatives
If your cabinets are in good structural shape but need a refresh, consider comparing refinishing vs. refacing. Refinishing can dramatically change your cabinetry's appearance for far less money than refacing.
The average cost for cabinet refinishing is $3,115, but homeowners could pay less or even a bit more depending on the number of cabinets and the cost of labor in your area.
Quick refresher: Refacing cabinets involves removing, replacing, and reattaching the doors. On the other hand, cabinet refinishing requires sanding down the existing doors and revitalizing them with new paint, stain, or lacquer.
Is Cabinet Refacing Right for You?
Cabinet refacing offers a fresh update that’s easier on your budget than replacing all your existing cabinetry. The process is also faster and less disruptive while offering many customizable options. However, refacing won’t fix layout issues or structural problems. When in doubt, always weigh the pros and cons and speak to a kitchen cabinet specialist to determine the best fit for your kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
The big downside to refacing is that it has its limits. It won't improve your kitchen's layout, create more storage space, or boost functionality. It also relies on your existing cabinet boxes being in good condition. If the bones aren't solid or your kitchen needs more than a visual upgrade, refacing might be more like dressing up a dud.
Yes, refacing old kitchen cabinets is doable as long as the cabinet boxes are still structurally sound. Refacing works best when the framework is in good condition, allowing you to update the doors, drawer fronts, and exterior surfaces without a full replacement.
No, you don’t have to remove your countertops to reface cabinets. Since refacing involves updating the doors, drawer fronts, and exterior surfaces, your existing countertops can stay right where they are, making the process quicker, cleaner, and less disruptive.
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