Is it better to strip or sand kitchen cabinets?

• <div><p>When deciding between stripping or sanding kitchen cabinets, the short answer is it depends on the condition of your cabinets and your end goal for them. If the cabinets are in fairly good condition and don’t have several layers of paint on them, sanding is a good option. On the other hand, older cabinets with more blemishes or marks will benefit from paint stripping, since it will give any future finishes a clean slate. </p></div>

What are the differences between MDF and solid wood?

• <div><p>When comparing wood versus MDF, there are some widespread misconceptions that solid wood is more reliable and durable. Despite this common belief, wood isn't always a superior choice and MDF may be a better building material choice in some cases. Here are some examples:</p><ul><li><p>MDF is more affordable than wood. You can buy MDF for as low as one-quarter of the wood price.</p></li><li><p>MDF is a smooth surface with no knots or woodgrain, which makes it easier to finish and cut with a saw. </p></li><li><p>MDF is a standard choice for shelving and trim.</p></li><li><p>Unlike MDF, solid wood isn't the best option for cabinets or drawers. It can shrink, crack, or bend in response to changes in temperature and humidity, while MDF has a high moisture and fire resistance level and is less likely to break or warp.</p></li></ul><p></p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Cabinet Making pros in Chevak, AK

*The Angi rating for Cabinet Making companies in Chevak, AK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Cabinet Making needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Cabinet Making companies in Chevak, AK is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Cabinet Making needs.

Last update on November 20, 2025

Reviewed in July 2012
Shortly after the cabinets were installed, we found one of the cabinets was defective. We photographed the defect and took a part that was defective to the owner of Cabinet Fever, Kurt Echols. I believe he said he would contact the factory about the problem. The cabinet has never been fixed. We...
CABINET FEVER INC
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Reviewed in October 2006
The work is in progress but the whole experience so far has been great. I read about this company on Angie's list from another member who said that if you don't think you can afford custom cabinets you should contact this company. It's true! They are very reasonably priced. We were also...
Northland Cabinets Inc
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Reviewed in February 2012
He is really, really good. The quality of his work is very high. We've found him to be very flexible and receptive to your suggestions. He will do exactly what you want him to do but he has a lot of really good design ideas. He really listens to the woman of the house. He has a creative...
Puhr's Custom Woodworks Ltd
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Reviewed in June 2012
The guy is an artist. He is a perfectionist. He lives about 35 miles from my place and he traveled here three or four times to make measurements and models. He built the model for my kitchen in his shop. We went to look at it after he was done and it was our kitchen without the appliances in...
HEUSSER CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in June 2011
Dave was very helpful, on time and got started right away and completed the job with excellence! He is a great carpenter.
Jensen Construction
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Reviewed in February 2011
Service was fast and courteous. Called contractor to see if interested. Contractor visited house. Contractor awaited our decision as to materials and style. We toured facility. Ordered cabinets. They were delivered when promised as promised. Installer finished when expected. Estimated...
M & P CABINET CRAFTERS
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Reviewed in March 2013
We contracted for our new home in October, 2012. Jon's Woodworking was recommended to us by another client and we met with Jon Deel shortly after. We worked directly with Jon and his colleagues, describing what we wanted our cabinets to look like and Jon came back with a very complete...
JON'S WOODWORKING
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Cabinet Making questions, answered by experts

When deciding between stripping or sanding kitchen cabinets, the short answer is it depends on the condition of your cabinets and your end goal for them. If the cabinets are in fairly good condition and don’t have several layers of paint on them, sanding is a good option. On the other hand, older cabinets with more blemishes or marks will benefit from paint stripping, since it will give any future finishes a clean slate.

When comparing wood versus MDF, there are some widespread misconceptions that solid wood is more reliable and durable. Despite this common belief, wood isn't always a superior choice and MDF may be a better building material choice in some cases. Here are some examples:

MDF is more affordable than wood. You can buy MDF for as low as one-quarter of the wood price.
MDF is a smooth surface with no knots or woodgrain, which makes it easier to finish and cut with a saw.
MDF is a standard choice for shelving and trim.
Unlike MDF, solid wood isn't the best option for cabinets or drawers. It can shrink, crack, or bend in response to changes in temperature and humidity, while MDF has a high moisture and fire resistance level and is less likely to break or warp.

Before making any big plans, climb up a step ladder and closely examine the top of your cabinets. You’ll get to see what sort of clean-up work needs to be done, but you can also check for any unexpected obstacles. Sometimes this space holds electrical boxes, wiring, or even plumbing components. Those will affect plans to install a new layer of cabinets or shelves.

Costs depend on materials, labor, appliances, and whether electrical or plumbing modifications are required.

Clean regularly, avoid overloading shelves, and check hardware for wear to ensure longevity.

The Chevak, AK homeowners’ guide to cabinet making services

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