What is kitchen cabinet refacing with veneer?

It's a cost-effective way to update your kitchen by applying wood veneer to the existing cabinet boxes and replacing the doors and drawer fronts. This gives the appearance of new cabinets without the expense and hassle of a full replacement, saving you thousands. The process involves adhering thin sheets of real or synthetic wood to the exterior of your current cabinets [1, 2, 13].

How much does kitchen cabinet refacing with veneer cost?

The cost varies depending on the size of your kitchen, the type of veneer used, and whether you hire a professional or do it yourself. Professional refacing with wood veneer can range from $2,500 to $6,500, which is generally 30-50% less than replacing the cabinets entirely [4, 16]. DIY refacing will reduce the cost significantly as you only need to pay for the materials.

How durable is kitchen cabinet refacing with veneer?

The durability depends on the quality of the veneer and the installation. While not as durable as solid wood, properly applied veneer can last for 10-20 years with good care [5]. High-quality veneers are more resistant to warping, cracking, and splitting, but they can be susceptible to scratches, peeling, and water damage if not maintained [5, 6, 10].

What are the basic steps for DIY kitchen cabinet refacing with veneer?

The basic steps include: removing cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware; thoroughly cleaning and preparing the cabinet surfaces; measuring and cutting the veneer; applying adhesive and attaching the veneer carefully; trimming excess veneer; and reassembling the cabinets with new hardware [1, 13]. Proper preparation and precise measurements are crucial for a professional-looking finish.

What are the pros and cons of using veneer for kitchen cabinet refacing?

Pros include a cost-effective way to achieve the look of real wood, a wide range of styles and finishes, and a less wasteful alternative to full replacement [2, 9, 19]. Cons include potential durability issues (susceptibility to water damage, scratching and peeling), complex installation requiring precision, and a potentially less professional appearance compared to solid wood cabinets [3, 10].

DIY Cabinet Refacing

By Home Sidekick Team June 14, 2025 11 min read 2291 words

kitchencabinetsrefacingveneerDIYrenovationremodelbudget

Is your kitchen looking a little…tired? Are you dreaming of a modern, updated space but dread the thought of a full-scale kitchen remodel? Then cabinet refacing might be the perfect DIY project for you! Cabinet refacing is a cost-effective and relatively simple way to transform your kitchen without the hassle and expense of replacing your entire cabinetry. It involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, and applying a new veneer to the existing cabinet boxes. Think of it as a facelift for your kitchen – a dramatic improvement with minimal demolition.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the DIY cabinet refacing process, from planning and preparation to installation and finishing touches. We’ll cover material options, tool requirements, and provide expert tips to ensure a successful and satisfying kitchen makeover. Get ready to roll up your sleeves and breathe new life into your kitchen cabinets!

Planning Your Cabinet Refacing Project

Before you even think about picking up a screwdriver, careful planning is crucial. This stage will determine the overall success of your project and help you avoid costly mistakes. Here’s what you need to consider:

1. Assess Your Existing Cabinets

The first step is to determine if your cabinets are suitable for refacing. Refacing works best when the existing cabinet boxes are structurally sound. Inspect the boxes for signs of damage such as:

Water damage: Look for swelling, warping, or discoloration, especially around the sink and dishwasher.
Insect damage: Check for holes or sawdust, which could indicate a pest infestation.
Warping or twisting: Ensure the boxes are square and level. Significant warping can make refacing difficult.
Loose joints: Make sure the cabinet boxes are firmly assembled.

If your cabinet boxes are severely damaged, refacing might not be the best option. In that case, consider replacing the entire cabinetry.

Actionable Advice: Take pictures of any damage you find during your assessment. This will be helpful when you consult with suppliers about the best materials and techniques for your situation.

2. Define Your Style and Budget

What kind of look are you hoping to achieve? Modern, traditional, farmhouse, or something else entirely? Browse online resources like Pinterest and Houzz to gather inspiration. Consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen and choose a style that complements your existing décor. Once you have a style in mind, set a realistic budget. Cabinet refacing can save you a significant amount compared to full replacement, but it’s still important to track your expenses.

Your budget should include the cost of:

New cabinet doors and drawer fronts
Veneer or laminate for cabinet boxes
Hardware (knobs, pulls, hinges)
Tools and supplies (sandpaper, adhesive, etc.)
Primer and paint or stain (if necessary)

Tip: Get quotes from multiple suppliers to compare prices on materials. Factor in delivery costs and potential waste when calculating your material needs.

3. Measure Everything Accurately

Accurate measurements are absolutely critical for a successful refacing project. Measure each cabinet door and drawer front carefully, and record the measurements in a notebook or spreadsheet. It’s best to measure twice (or even three times!) to ensure accuracy. When measuring, note the following:

Door size: Measure the height and width of each door.
Drawer front size: Measure the height and width of each drawer front.
Cabinet box dimensions: Measure the height, width, and depth of each cabinet box that will be covered with veneer.
Hinge placement: Note the location and type of hinges used on your existing doors. This is crucial for ordering new doors with the correct hinge boring.

Practical Example: When measuring for new doors, specify the overlay type. Overlay refers to how much the door overlaps the cabinet frame. Common overlay options include full overlay, half overlay, and inset. Incorrect overlay measurements can result in doors that don’t fit properly.

4. Choose Your Materials

The materials you choose will significantly impact the look and durability of your refaced cabinets. Here are some common options:

Cabinet Doors and Drawer Fronts:
- Solid Wood: Offers a classic, high-end look. Common wood species include maple, oak, cherry, and walnut.
- Wood Veneer: A thin layer of real wood adhered to a substrate like MDF or plywood. It provides the look of solid wood at a lower cost.
- MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): A smooth, stable material that’s ideal for painted cabinets.
- Laminate: A durable, easy-to-clean material that comes in a wide range of colors and patterns.
Veneer for Cabinet Boxes:
- Wood Veneer: Matches the look of solid wood doors.
- Laminate: A cost-effective and durable option.
- Peel-and-Stick Veneer: Easy to apply but may not be as durable as other options.
Hardware: Knobs, pulls, and hinges come in a variety of styles and finishes. Choose hardware that complements your overall design.

Research Citation: According to a study by the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association (KCMA), the most popular materials for kitchen cabinets are maple, oak, and painted MDF. (KCMA Website)

Gathering Your Tools and Supplies

Having the right tools and supplies on hand will make the refacing process much smoother and more efficient. Here’s a list of essentials:

Screwdriver or Drill with Screwdriver Bits: For removing and installing doors and hardware.
Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
Level: To ensure doors and drawer fronts are aligned properly.
Sandpaper: For preparing surfaces for veneer or paint. Various grits (80, 120, 220) are recommended.
Wood Filler: For patching any imperfections in the cabinet boxes.
Primer: For preparing surfaces for paint.
Paint or Stain: To match the new doors and drawer fronts.
Paintbrushes and Rollers: For applying primer and paint.
Veneer Adhesive: Choose a high-quality adhesive specifically designed for veneer application.
Utility Knife: For trimming veneer.
J-Roller or Laminate Roller: For pressing veneer firmly onto the cabinet boxes.
Clamps: To hold veneer in place while the adhesive dries.
Safety Glasses and Dust Mask: To protect yourself from dust and debris.
Cleaning Supplies: For cleaning surfaces before and after refacing.

Actionable Advice: Invest in good-quality tools. They will last longer and make the job easier. Consider renting specialized tools like a veneer trimmer if you don’t want to purchase them.

Preparing the Existing Cabinet Boxes

Proper preparation of the existing cabinet boxes is crucial for ensuring a smooth and long-lasting finish. This involves cleaning, sanding, and repairing any imperfections.

1. Remove Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

Carefully remove all doors, drawer fronts, and hardware from the cabinet boxes. Label each door and drawer front with its corresponding cabinet location to avoid confusion later.

Tip: Store the removed hardware in a labeled container. You might be able to reuse some of it, especially hinges if you're ordering doors with pre-drilled hinge bores.

2. Clean the Cabinet Boxes

Thoroughly clean the cabinet boxes with a degreaser or all-purpose cleaner to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. Pay special attention to areas around the stove and sink.

Practical Example: Use a mixture of warm water and dish soap to clean the cabinet boxes. For stubborn grease stains, try using a paste of baking soda and water.

3. Sand the Surfaces

Lightly sand the surfaces of the cabinet boxes with 120-grit sandpaper to create a smooth surface for the veneer or paint to adhere to. Don’t sand too aggressively, as you don’t want to damage the underlying material. Focus on removing any gloss or imperfections.

Tip: Use a sanding block to ensure even sanding. A power sander can also be used, but be careful not to over-sand.

4. Repair Any Imperfections

Fill any holes, cracks, or dents in the cabinet boxes with wood filler. Allow the wood filler to dry completely, and then sand it smooth with 220-grit sandpaper. Remove any dust with a tack cloth.

Actionable Advice: For larger holes, apply wood filler in thin layers, allowing each layer to dry completely before applying the next. This will prevent the filler from shrinking and cracking.

5. Prime the Cabinet Boxes (if painting)

If you plan to paint the cabinet boxes, apply a coat of high-quality primer. Primer will help the paint adhere better and provide a more uniform finish. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying the paint.

Research Citation: According to Benjamin Moore, using a primer before painting cabinets is essential for achieving a durable and professional-looking finish. (Benjamin Moore Website)

Applying the Veneer or Laminate

This is the most challenging part of the refacing process, but with patience and attention to detail, you can achieve a professional-looking result.

1. Cut the Veneer to Size

Measure and cut the veneer or laminate to fit each section of the cabinet boxes. Leave a slight overhang on all sides, which you can trim later. Use a utility knife or a specialized veneer trimmer for precise cuts.

Tip: It’s better to cut the veneer slightly larger than needed and trim it down than to cut it too small. Practice cutting on a scrap piece of veneer first to get a feel for the material.

2. Apply the Adhesive

Apply a thin, even coat of veneer adhesive to both the back of the veneer and the surface of the cabinet box. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the specific adhesive you are using. Allow the adhesive to become tacky before applying the veneer.

Practical Example: Use a notched trowel to apply the adhesive evenly. This will help prevent air bubbles from forming under the veneer.

3. Apply the Veneer

Carefully position the veneer on the cabinet box, starting at one edge and working your way across. Use a J-roller or laminate roller to press the veneer firmly onto the cabinet box, working out any air bubbles. Pay special attention to the edges and corners.

Actionable Advice: If you are working with a large piece of veneer, it can be helpful to have a second person assist you with positioning and applying the veneer.

4. Trim the Edges

Once the adhesive has dried completely, trim the excess veneer from the edges of the cabinet box using a utility knife or a specialized veneer trimmer. Be careful not to damage the cabinet box itself. Sand the edges smooth with fine-grit sandpaper.

Tip: Use a sharp utility knife blade for clean, precise cuts. Change the blade frequently to maintain sharpness.

5. Secure with Clamps (if necessary)

For areas that are difficult to adhere to, such as curved surfaces or corners, use clamps to hold the veneer in place while the adhesive dries completely. Protect the veneer with a soft cloth or piece of wood to prevent the clamps from damaging the surface.

Installing the New Doors and Hardware

Now that the cabinet boxes are refaced, it’s time to install the new doors, drawer fronts, and hardware.

1. Install Hinges on New Doors

If your new doors didn’t come with pre-installed hinges, you’ll need to install them yourself. Use a hinge jig to ensure accurate placement. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the hinges.

Tip: If you are replacing your existing hinges with new ones, make sure the new hinges are the same type and size as the old ones. This will make installation much easier.

2. Attach Doors to Cabinet Boxes

Attach the new doors to the cabinet boxes using the hinges. Make sure the doors are aligned properly and swing smoothly. Adjust the hinges as needed to achieve proper alignment.

Practical Example: Use a level to ensure the doors are hanging straight. If the doors are not aligned properly, loosen the hinge screws slightly and adjust the door until it is level. Then, tighten the screws.

3. Install Drawer Fronts

Attach the new drawer fronts to the drawer boxes using screws. Make sure the drawer fronts are centered and aligned properly. Adjust the screws as needed to achieve proper alignment.

Actionable Advice: Use shims to hold the drawer fronts in place while you attach them to the drawer boxes. This will help ensure proper alignment.

4. Install Hardware (Knobs and Pulls)

Install the new knobs and pulls on the doors and drawer fronts. Use a template to ensure consistent placement. Tighten the screws securely.

Tip: Consider using a cabinet hardware jig to drill holes for the knobs and pulls. This will help ensure accurate and consistent placement.

Finishing Touches and Maintenance

Once the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware are installed, there are a few finishing touches you can add to complete your kitchen makeover.

1. Caulk Any Gaps

Caulk any gaps between the cabinet boxes and the walls or countertops. This will help prevent moisture from getting behind the cabinets and protect them from damage.

2. Clean and Polish the Cabinets

Clean the refaced cabinets with a mild detergent and water. Polish the cabinets with a furniture polish to protect the finish and enhance the shine.

3. Maintain Your Refaced Cabinets

To keep your refaced cabinets looking their best, clean them regularly with a mild detergent and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the finish. Wipe up any spills immediately to prevent staining.

Actionable Advice: Consider applying a protective coating to the refaced cabinets to protect them from scratches and stains. There are many different types of protective coatings available, so choose one that is appropriate for the material of your cabinets.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve successfully refaced your kitchen cabinets and transformed your kitchen into a beautiful and functional space. By following these steps and tips, you’ve not only saved money but also gained valuable DIY skills. But don’t stop there! Consider other small upgrades to complement your newly refaced cabinets, such as new backsplash tile, updated lighting, or a fresh coat of paint on the walls.

Now that you've breathed new life into your kitchen, take some time to enjoy your updated space and show off your handiwork. Share your before-and-after photos with friends and family, and inspire others to tackle their own DIY cabinet refacing projects. The possibilities are endless!