My Experience With Refacing And Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
When my husband and I moved into our first home, we were excited to have a kitchen that we could call our own. However, the cabinets were outdated and didn’t match our style. We knew we had to do something about it, but we weren’t sure if we should reface or refinish the cabinets.
What is Refacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets?
Refacing kitchen cabinets involves removing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts and replacing them with new ones. The cabinet frames are left intact and covered with a veneer or laminate to match the new doors and drawer fronts. Refinishing kitchen cabinets involves sanding down the existing cabinets, applying a new finish, and adding new hardware.
Step by Step Guide for Refacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
Refacing:
- Remove the cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
- Clean and sand the cabinet frames.
- Measure and order new doors and drawer fronts.
- Cover the cabinet frames with a veneer or laminate to match the new doors and drawer fronts.
- Install the new doors and drawer fronts.
- Add new hardware.
Refinishing:
- Remove all hardware and cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
- Sand down the existing cabinets.
- Apply a new finish.
- Add new hardware.
- Reinstall the cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Refacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
- Take your time and do your research before starting the project.
- Consider the cost and time involved in each option.
- Choose a durable finish that will last for years to come.
- Don’t be afraid to mix and match different hardware styles.
- Consider adding glass inserts to some cabinet doors for a modern look.
- Think about adding lighting inside some cabinets for a functional and stylish addition.
- Use contrasting colors or finishes on upper and lower cabinets for a unique look.
- Consider adding decorative trim to the cabinet frames for a custom look.
- Choose a style that matches the overall design of your home.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a professional if needed.
Pros and Cons of Refacing and Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets
| Refacing | Refinishing |
|---|---|
| Pros | Pros |
| -New doors and drawer fronts create a completely new look | -Cost effective compared to replacing cabinets |
| -Cabinet frames remain intact | -Can be done in a shorter amount of time than refacing |
| -Less mess and disruption to daily life | -Can be DIY with the right tools and knowledge |
| Cons | Cons |
| -Can be expensive depending on the quality of materials used | -Existing cabinets may not be in good enough condition to refinish |
| -Limited options for changing the layout of the kitchen | -May not last as long as replacing cabinets |
My Personal Review and Suggestion
After researching and getting quotes from professionals, my husband and I decided to go with refacing our kitchen cabinets. We were happy with the overall outcome and the new doors and drawer fronts completely transformed the look of our kitchen. However, we did experience some issues with the veneer peeling off in some areas after a few years. We ended up having to replace some of the doors and drawer fronts earlier than expected.
If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a DIY project, refinishing kitchen cabinets can be a great option. However, if you’re looking for a completely new look and have the budget for it, refacing kitchen cabinets is a great option. Just make sure to do your research and choose a reputable professional if you decide to go that route.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: Can I change the layout of my kitchen when refacing or refinishing my cabinets?
A: Refacing and refinishing kitchen cabinets typically don’t involve changing the layout of the kitchen. However, you can always consult with a professional to see if it’s possible.
Q: How long does it take to reface or refinish kitchen cabinets?
A: Refacing and refinishing kitchen cabinets can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks depending on the size of the kitchen and the complexity of the project.
Q: Can I do the project myself?
A: Refinishing kitchen cabinets can be a DIY project with the right tools and knowledge. Refacing kitchen cabinets typically requires a professional.