Cabinet Refacing vs Replacing: Which is Better?

When it comes to giving your kitchen a fresh look, the cabinets are definitely a key player. If your cabinets are looking a bit tired or outdated, you might be asking yourself: Should I just reface them or go for a full replacement?

Both options, cabinet refacing and cabinet replacement, come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The right choice really hinges on what you’re aiming for, your budget, and the current state of your kitchen. In this guide, we’ll explore both paths of Cabinet refacing vs replacing to help you figure out which one suits your home best.

Refaced kitchen featuring white shaker-style cabinets and a custom island

What is Cabinet Refacing?

Kitchen Cabinet refacing involves giving your existing cabinets a brand-new look, without tearing them out.

Here’s how it works:

• The cabinet doors and drawer fronts are removed and replaced with new ones.

• The cabinet boxes (frames) are covered with a veneer or laminate to match the new doors. At Ideal Home Improvement, we specialize in refacing with real wood veneer.

• In most cases, moldings and toe kicks are also replaced.

• New hardware (knobs, pulls, hinges) can also be added.

  
  

The result? Your cabinets will look brand new without installing new kitchen cabinets, at a fraction of the cost of replacement.

What is Cabinet Replacement?

Cabinet replacement involves removing your existing cabinets entirely and installing brand-new ones.

This gives you the opportunity to:

• Change the layout of your kitchen

• Add more storage or new features

• Select from a wider range of cabinet styles, materials, and colors

  
  

Because this process is more involved, it typically requires more time and a larger budget.

Pros and Cons of Cabinet refacing vs replacing

Pros:

Cost-effective – the cost of cabinet refacing will be at least 30-50% less than full replacement

Faster project timeline, often completed in 2-4 days

Less mess - minimal demolition required

Eco-friendly - keeps existing cabinet boxes out of landfills

Cons:

No option to change kitchen layout

Cabinet interiors remain the same

Structural issues with old cabinets cannot be fixed by refacing

Pros and Cons of Cabinet Replacement

Pros:

Full design flexibility, new layout, features, and materials.

Can address structural or functional issues.

Potential for improved storage and organization.

Cons:

Higher cost, the cost of replacing kitchen cabinets is two to three times more than refacing.

Longer project timeline - typically several weeks. 

More disruptive - requires demolition and reconstruction.

Which Option is Right for You?

Choose Cabinet Refacing If:

• Your existing cabinet boxes are sturdy and in good condition

• You like your current kitchen layout

• You want to update the style and finish of your cabinets affordably

• You want to complete the project quickly and with less disruption

Choose Cabinet Replacement If:

• Your cabinet boxes are damaged or poorly built

• You want to completely redesign your kitchen layout

• You need more storage or new kitchen features

• You have the budget and time for a full remodel

Final Thoughts

Both cabinet refacing and cabinet replacement can dramatically transform your kitchen — the right choice depends on your needs and priorities.

If you’re looking for a fast, affordable way to refresh your kitchen, cabinet refacing is an excellent option. If you want a complete redesign and brand-new cabinetry, replacement might be worth the investment.

Not sure which option is best for your kitchen?

Contact Ideal Home Improvement today for a free consultation. We can help you explore your options and choose the solution that works for your home and budget.

Ideal Home Improvement

1585 Mammoth Road

Dracut, MA 01826

(978) 314-7882

https://maps.app.goo.gl/oqtNS7dRLTjVeeaE9