What Affects Cabinet Refacing Cost?
- Ideal Home Improvement
- Sep 1
- 3 min read
Why Cabinet Refacing is a Smart Choice
If you’re thinking about giving your kitchen a fresh new look without the price tag of a full kitchen remodel, cabinet refacing is one of the best options. It’s faster, less disruptive, and typically costs 30 to 60% less than replacing cabinets entirely. Still, homeowners often ask: What affects cabinet refacing cost? The answer depends on several key factors.
Factors That Affect Cabinet Refacing Cost
Kitchen Size and Layout
The number of cabinets you have is the biggest cost driver. More doors, drawers, and surface area mean more materials and more labor. A small galley kitchen may only take a couple of days to reface, while a large open-concept kitchen with a big island will require 4 to five days to complete.
Cabinet Refacing Materials
Just like flooring or countertops, the finish and material you select make a big difference in cost.
Laminate: A budget-friendly option that still gives a modern look.
Wood veneer: Offers the beauty of real wood without the expense of solid wood.
Solid wood: More durable and customizable, but also more expensive.
Hardware, like new handles and hinges, also factors in. Premium hardware can add hundreds to the total project.
Door and Drawer Styles
Flat-panel doors cost less than intricate shaker or raised-panel styles. If you choose glass inserts, decorative trim, or custom detailing, expect the price to increase.
Custom Features and Add-ons
Many homeowners use refacing as a chance to add extras, such as:
Crown molding
Soft-close hinges
Glass doors
New drawer boxes or pull-out shelves
These upgrades make your kitchen more functional and stylish, but they also raise the overall cost.
Cabinet Condition Before Refacing
If your cabinets are sturdy and in good shape, refacing is straightforward. But if repairs are needed, like fixing water damage, reinforcing weak frames, or adjusting for uneven walls, this adds to labor costs.
6. Labor and Installation Costs
Skilled labor is worth paying for. An experienced installer ensures the finish looks seamless and lasts for years. Labor rates vary by region, so where you live can also affect the total price.
How to Plan for Your Cabinet Refacing Budget
Start with materials. The material you choose has the biggest impact on cost and overall appearance. If you want your kitchen to have a timeless, high-quality look, put more of your budget toward wood veneer or solid wood. If your goal is a modern refresh on a tighter budget, laminate might be the better choice.
Evaluate your cabinet condition. If your cabinets need repairs or reinforcements, allocate funds here before splurging on extras. A solid foundation ensures the refacing lasts.
Think about daily use. Upgrades like soft-close hinges, pull-out trays, and new drawer boxes with soft-close glides add convenience you’ll notice every day. If you’re planning to stay in your home long-term, these are usually worth the investment.
Add finishing touches last. Crown molding, glass doors, and decorative trim elevate the look but aren’t essential to function. If you’re balancing a budget, save these as optional add-ons.
Plan for resale. If you’re remodeling with resale in mind, stick to materials and finishes that appeal to most buyers. Neutral colors and classic door styles tend to hold value better than highly customized choices
How a $10,000 Cabinet Refacing Budget Might Break Down
Materials (50%): Covers laminate, wood veneer, or solid wood doors and drawer fronts. Higher-end woods or specialty finishes push this number higher.
Labor & Installation (25%): Skilled labor for removing old doors, prepping surfaces, installing new materials, and finishing details. Labor costs also vary by region.
Upgrades (15%): Includes soft-close hinges, pull-out shelves, new drawer boxes, or glass inserts. These add convenience and style but can be adjusted depending on your budget.
Finishing Touches (10%): Crown molding, decorative trim, new hardware, or accent features that complete the look.
Cabinet Refacing in Massachusetts and New Hampshire
If you’re considering cabinet refacing in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, working with a trusted local contractor makes all the difference. At Ideal Home Improvement, we’ve helped homeowners in Dracut, MA, and surrounding towns transform their kitchens with quality refacing that lasts.
Because we specialize in real wood kitchen cabinet refacing, we know how to help you balance style, function, and budget. Whether you’re aiming for a clean modern look or a timeless wood finish, we’ll walk you through your material options, explain how different upgrades affect cost, and give you a clear estimate upfront.
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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