Q: How do I prepare to have my cabinets refinished or refaced?

• <div><p>To prepare for cabinet refinishing or refacing, it&rsquo;s important to remove all items from the cabinetry in question. In addition, clear any clutter from the room, whether it's the kitchen, bathroom, or otherwise. Be sure to have additional cabinet materials, such as <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/what-look-kitchen-cabinet-hardware.htm">cabinet hardware</a>, lights, and glass inserts, ready for your cabinet installer to use.</p><p>Finally, if you have pets, ensure they are in a safe, separate location away from your cabinet professionals, who will bring materials in and out of your home during the process. </p></div>

Question 1

What maintenance is required after surfaces are resurfaced or refaced?

Accepted Answer

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Routine cleaning with light detergents, avoiding abrasives, and timely addressing chips prolong the new surface appearance.

Question 2

What happens if you don't sand cabinets?

Accepted Answer

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If you don't sand your cabinets, the new paint or stain won’t adhere properly, impacting the final finish and leading to peeling, chipping, or a sloppy result that won't stand the test of time. Sanding removes the old finish, smooths imperfections, and gives the new coat something to grip. Without it, you will waste your time, money, and effort.

Question 3

When should I repair my cabinets versus replace them?

Accepted Answer

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Since there are many methods of repairing your cabinets, including refacing and refinishing, it can be tricky to know when to replace or fix your existing cabinets. Generally, it’s best to repair your existing cabinets when the cabinet boxes are in good condition. Additionally, this option is best when you’re being budget-friendly or remodeling.

Replacing your cabinets is best when you’re changing the layout of the room or when the cabinet boxes are in rough shape. It’s also best to replace your cabinets if you need more storage space, as this will remove the existing cabinets for new ones.

Question 4

How do I prepare to have my cabinets refinished or refaced?

Accepted Answer

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To prepare for cabinet refinishing or refacing, it’s important to remove all items from the cabinetry in question. In addition, clear any clutter from the room, whether it's the kitchen, bathroom, or otherwise. Be sure to have additional cabinet materials, such as cabinet hardware, lights, and glass inserts, ready for your cabinet installer to use.

Finally, if you have pets, ensure they are in a safe, separate location away from your cabinet professionals, who will bring materials in and out of your home during the process.

Question 5

Do you have to remove countertops to reface cabinets?

Accepted Answer

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No, in most cases, you do not have to remove your countertops to reface cabinets. Since refacing primarily involves updating the doors, drawer fronts, and exterior surfaces, your existing countertops can usually stay right where they are, making the process quicker and less disruptive. However, if your counters prevent the access needed to remove doors and drawers, they may need to be temporarily removed. It's best to consult with a professional cabinet contractor to assess your specific kitchen layout during an estimate.