Refacing Cabinets: Cost Breakdown

Thinking about updating your kitchen without the hefty price tag of a full renovation? Kitchen cabinet refacing might be the perfect solution. It's a cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh, new look while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. This blog post dives deep into the cost breakdown of refacing your cabinets, exploring the various factors that influence the final price and offering practical tips to help you stay within budget.

What is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts of your existing cabinets and applying a new veneer to the exposed surfaces of the cabinet boxes. Think of it as a facelift for your kitchen – you're improving the appearance without completely gutting the space. This is different from cabinet refinishing, which involves sanding and re-staining or painting the existing cabinet surfaces. Refacing offers a wider range of style options and can address issues like damaged or outdated door styles.

When you reface your cabinets, the core structure and layout of your kitchen remain the same, preserving the functionality you already appreciate. It’s a great way to modernize your space without the disruption and expense of replacing everything. For example, if you have a well-designed kitchen layout that you love, refacing allows you to update the look without sacrificing practicality.

Cabinet Refacing vs. Replacement: A Cost Comparison

One of the biggest advantages of refacing over replacing cabinets is the cost savings. According to HomeAdvisor, cabinet refacing typically costs between $1,000 and $10,000 for an average-sized kitchen, while replacing cabinets can range from $4,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the quality and complexity of the installation.¹

The exact cost depends on several factors, but generally, refacing saves you 30-50% compared to full replacement. This is because you're only paying for new doors, drawer fronts, and veneers, rather than the entire cabinet structure. Additionally, refacing is less disruptive and faster than a full replacement, minimizing inconvenience during the renovation process.

Here's a quick comparison table:

Detailed Cost Breakdown of Cabinet Refacing

Understanding the specific cost components of cabinet refacing empowers you to make informed decisions and manage your budget effectively. Let's break down the expenses:

1. Materials

The type of materials you choose significantly impacts the overall cost. Here's a rundown:

• Veneer: Veneer covers the exposed surfaces of the cabinet boxes. Options include wood veneer, laminate, and rigid thermofoil (RTF).
• Wood Veneer: Offers a natural wood look and can be stained or painted. It's a more expensive option, ranging from $6 to $15 per square foot.
• Laminate: A cost-effective option that comes in various colors and patterns. It's durable and easy to clean, priced around $2 to $7 per square foot.
• Rigid Thermofoil (RTF): A vinyl material heat-bonded to MDF. It's seamless, easy to clean, and resistant to chipping, costing approximately $3 to $8 per square foot.
• Doors and Drawer Fronts: These are the most visible elements of your refaced cabinets.
• Wood Doors: Offer a classic, high-end look. Prices vary depending on the wood species and design, ranging from $50 to $200 per door.
• MDF Doors: A stable and paintable option that resists warping. They're typically less expensive than wood doors, costing $30 to $100 per door.
• Laminate Doors: A budget-friendly choice that comes in various colors and styles. They're durable and easy to maintain, priced around $20 to $80 per door.
• Hardware: Knobs, pulls, hinges, and drawer slides add the finishing touches and can significantly impact the overall look.
• Knobs and Pulls: Prices range from $3 to $30+ per piece, depending on the style and material.
• Hinges: Essential for smooth door operation. Expect to pay $2 to $10 per hinge. Soft-close hinges are a worthwhile upgrade.
• Drawer Slides: Ensure smooth drawer movement. Prices range from $5 to $30 per slide, with soft-close options available for added convenience.

Example: For a kitchen with 30 cabinet doors and 15 drawers, using wood veneer at $10 per square foot (assuming 100 square feet of veneer needed), wood doors at $100 each, and mid-range hardware, the material cost could be around $6,000 - $7,000.

2. Labor Costs

Labor costs vary depending on your location and the complexity of the project. Hiring a professional installer ensures a high-quality finish and can save you time and potential headaches. Expect to pay between $70 and $200 per hour for professional cabinet refacing services.² Some contractors may charge per cabinet or per linear foot.

DIY Refacing: If you're comfortable with DIY projects, you can save on labor costs. However, refacing requires precision and attention to detail. Ensure you have the necessary tools and skills before attempting a DIY refacing project. Mistakes can be costly to fix.

Example: Hiring a professional to reface 30 cabinet doors and 15 drawers could take 2-5 days, costing between $1,000 and $5,000 in labor, depending on the hourly rate and complexity.

3. Additional Costs

Don't forget to factor in these potential additional expenses:

• Permits: In some areas, you may need a permit for cabinet refacing. Check with your local building department.
• Disposal Fees: Disposing of old doors and drawer fronts may incur disposal fees.
• Unexpected Repairs: Discovering hidden damage during the refacing process can lead to unexpected repair costs.
• Painting or Staining: If you choose unfinished wood veneer or doors, you'll need to factor in the cost of paint, stain, and finishing supplies.

DIY vs. Professional Cabinet Refacing

Deciding whether to DIY or hire a professional depends on your skills, time, and budget. Here's a comparison:

DIY Cabinet Refacing

Pros:

• Significant cost savings on labor
• Flexibility to work at your own pace
• Personal satisfaction of completing the project yourself

Cons:

• Requires carpentry skills and experience
• Can be time-consuming and physically demanding
• Potential for mistakes that can be costly to fix
• Requires specialized tools

Professional Cabinet Refacing

Pros:

• High-quality finish and professional results
• Saves time and effort
• Reduced risk of mistakes
• Warranty on workmanship

Cons:

• Higher cost due to labor expenses
• Less control over the project timeline
• Requires careful selection of a reputable contractor

Actionable Advice: If you're considering DIY, start with a small project, like refacing a single bathroom vanity, to assess your skills and comfort level. Watch online tutorials and consult with experienced DIYers before tackling a full kitchen refacing project.

Tips for Saving Money on Cabinet Refacing

Refacing can save you money, but here's how to save even more:

• Compare Quotes: Get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you're getting a fair price.
• Choose Affordable Materials: Opt for laminate or RTF veneer and MDF doors to save on material costs.
• Reuse Existing Hardware: If your existing knobs and pulls are in good condition and match your new style, reuse them.
• DIY What You Can: If you're comfortable with basic carpentry, consider handling tasks like removing old doors and hardware yourself.
• Look for Sales and Discounts: Many home improvement stores offer sales and discounts on cabinet refacing materials.
• Consider Refacing in Stages: If your budget is tight, reface your upper cabinets first and then tackle the lower cabinets later.
• Paint Existing Cabinet Boxes: Instead of applying new veneer to the cabinet boxes, consider painting them to match your new doors and drawer fronts.

Practical Example: By choosing laminate veneer instead of wood veneer, you could save $3 to $8 per square foot, which can add up to significant savings for a larger kitchen.

Maintaining Your Refaced Cabinets

Proper maintenance ensures your refaced cabinets look their best for years to come. Here are some tips:

• Clean Regularly: Wipe down your cabinets regularly with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
• Protect from Moisture: Wipe up spills immediately to prevent water damage.
• Tighten Hardware: Periodically tighten loose knobs, pulls, and hinges.
• Touch Up Scratches: Use touch-up paint or markers to repair minor scratches and chips.

Conclusion

Kitchen cabinet refacing is a smart and budget-friendly way to transform your kitchen. By understanding the cost breakdown, exploring your options, and following our money-saving tips, you can achieve a stunning new look without breaking the bank. Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional, careful planning and attention to detail are key to a successful refacing project. So, take the next step, gather your quotes, and get ready to enjoy your refreshed kitchen!

Next Steps:

• Measure your cabinets and determine the amount of veneer and number of doors and drawer fronts needed.
• Research different material options and styles that fit your budget and aesthetic preferences.
• Get quotes from at least three different contractors or create a detailed budget for your DIY project.
• Start planning your refacing project today!

1. Source: HomeAdvisor - Cabinet Refacing Costs
2. Source: Fixr.com - Cabinet Refacing Costs