Is It Worth it to Reface Kitchen Cabinets
- Ideal Home Improvement
- 3 days ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 2 days ago
When your kitchen feels outdated, the first thought is often a full remodel. But a complete kitchen remodel can be expensive, messy, and time-consuming. That's why many homeowners turn to cabinet refacing and often wonder and ask: Is it worth it to reface kitchen cabinets?
The truth is, cabinet refacing can be a smart solution, giving you a new look at a fraction of the cost of replacement. Let's go deeper into what is involved, the pros and cons, and how to know if it is the right choice for your home.
What is Cabinet Refacing?
Cabinet refacing, often confused with cabinet refinishing, is a revolutionary way to remodel a kitchen without the need to replace the entire cabinets. Here's what typically happens:
Keep your existing cabinet boxes if they're solid and in good condition.
Replace doors and drawer fronts with brand-new ones in the style and color you choose.
Cover visible surfaces (like the face frames and exposed ends) wood veneer, laminate, or solid wood.
Upgrade hardware such as knobs, pulls, and hinges.
Optional add-ons: soft-close hinges, rollout shelves, new trim, or crown molding.
In the end, the part you actually see in your kitchen is brand new, while the structure behind it stays the same.
Learn more about Ideal Home Improvement's kitchen cabinet refacing services in Dracut, MA, and surrounding towns.
Cost: Refacing vs. Replacement
This is where the biggest benefit comes in.
Cabinet refacing usually costs 40 to 60% less than replacing cabinets. On average, homeowners spend $7,000 to $12,000 for a full kitchen refacing project (depending on size, materials, and options).
Cabinet replacement, even without moving walls or appliances, can easily run $20,000 to $40,000 or more for new cabinetry.
If you choose the refacing route versus replacement, the money you save can free up budget for countertops, appliances, or flooring if you want to go further with your remodel.
How Long Does Refacing Take?
Refacing projects typically take 3 to 5 days, sometimes a little longer for bigger kitchens. Compare that with 3 to 6 weeks (or more) for a full replacement and remodel.
If you want your kitchen to look brand new without living in a construction zone for weeks, this is where refacing shines.
The Benefits of Cabinet Refacing
1. Huge Style Upgrade
You can transform a dark, dated kitchen into something modern and bright. Whether you love clean shaker doors, sleek flat panels, or traditional raised panels, there's a wide selection of door styles and colors.
2. Eco-Friendly Option
By reusing cabinet boxes, you're keeping perfectly good wood out of the landfill. That makes refacing one of the more environmentally responsible renovation choices.
3. Less Mess, Less Stress
Since your boxes stay in place, there's no demolition mess or risk of damaging floors, countertops, or walls.
4. Flexibility With Other Upgrades
Refacing is not just working with what you already have. When having your kitchen refaced, you also make slight changes to the current layout. You can add things like additional cabinets, or even a brand-new island, new counters, or a backsplash.
Once refaced, the old and new cabinets will blend in; nobody will ever know the difference.
See our before-and-after cabinet refacing projects for inspiration.
When Refacing Might Not Be Worth It
There are some situations where replacement is the smarter choice:
Damaged or poor-quality boxes: If your cabinets are particle board, warped, water-damaged, or falling apart, refacing is not a good investment.
Bad layout: Even though you can make slight changes to the current layout, refacing might not be a good idea if your kitchen feels cramped or awkward; in this situation, you might need a redesign.
Big picture remodels: If you're moving walls, changing the island, or gutting the kitchen, it often makes sense to start fresh with new cabinets.
Real-Life Example: Imagine a homeowner with 20-year-old oak cabinets. The boxes are solid, but the golden oak finish feels outdated. Instead of tearing everything out, they choose white shaker doors with brushed nickel hardware. The project takes 4 days and costs about $12,000. The kitchen now looks brand new, and they saved around $15,000 compared to a full replacement.
So, Is It Worth It to Reface Kitchen Cabinets?
For most homeowners with sturdy cabinets and a layout they like, the answer is yes. Refacing gives you:
A modern look
Lower cost
Faster turnaround
Less disruption
But if your cabinets are in poor condition or you want a whole new layout, replacement is the better investment.
Local Takeaway: If you're in Dracut, MA or the surrounding Merrimack Valley area, cabinet refacing can be one of the most budget-friendly ways to update your home. Many kitchens here have solid frames that are perfect for refacing, making it a practical option for homeowners who want an upgrade without overspending.,
Ready to update your kitchen? Schedule a free cabinet refacing consultation.
FAQ: Reface Kitchen Cabinets
How long do refaced cabinets last?
With quality materials and professional installation, refaced cabinets can last 15-20 years or more, about the same as new cabinets.
Can I reface laminate cabinets?
Yes, if the laminate boxes are structurally sound. The old laminate is covered with new veneer or laminate, and the doors/drawer fronts are replaced.
Is painting the same as refacing?
No. Painting only changes the color of your existing doors. Refacing replaces doors and drawer fronts entirely, giving you a true upgrade in style and function.
Do I need to replace my countertops before refacing?
Not necessarily. If your countertops are in good shape, they can stay. But many homeowners choose to upgrade counters at the same time to complete the transformation.
Will refacing increase my home's value?
Yes. A refreshed kitchen is one of the top features buyers look for. While you won't recoup 100% of the cost, you'll get a strong return on investment and a more marketable home.
Final Thoughts
Cabinet refacing is a smart investment for homeowners who want the look of a new kitchen without the full renovation cost. The total price depends on the size of your kitchen, the materials and style you choose, and whether you add upgrades along the way.
If you're in Massachusetts or New Hampshire and considering cabinet refacing, Ideal Home Improvement can walk you through your options and give you a detailed estimate tailored to your kitchen.
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