Reface Cabinets DIY

9 min read 1867 words
cabinet refacingDIYhome improvementkitchenrenovationbudget

Is your kitchen looking a little tired? Are your cabinets screaming for a makeover, but the thought of a full-blown remodel makes your wallet weep? Refacing your cabinets is the perfect DIY project to breathe new life into your kitchen without breaking the bank. It's a cost-effective and relatively straightforward way to achieve a dramatic transformation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the cabinet refacing process, from planning and preparation to execution and finishing touches, empowering you to tackle this project like a pro.

What is Cabinet Refacing and Why Choose It?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and sometimes the hardware of your existing cabinets while keeping the cabinet boxes intact. It's a fantastic alternative to completely replacing your cabinets, which can be a messy, time-consuming, and expensive undertaking. Think of it as giving your kitchen a facelift rather than major surgery.

Benefits of Refacing Over Replacement:

Planning and Preparation: The Key to Success

Like any successful DIY project, careful planning and preparation are crucial for cabinet refacing. This stage involves assessing your existing cabinets, selecting materials, taking measurements, and gathering the necessary tools.

1. Assessing Your Existing Cabinets:

Before you get too excited about new doors and drawer fronts, carefully inspect your existing cabinet boxes. Look for any signs of damage, such as warping, water damage, or structural issues. Refacing is only a good option if your cabinet boxes are in good condition. If they're not, you might be better off with a full replacement.

2. Choosing Your Refacing Materials:

The choice of materials is a major factor in determining the look and feel of your refaced cabinets. Here are some common options:

3. Selecting Doors and Drawer Fronts:

This is where you get to express your personal style! Consider the overall aesthetic you're trying to achieve and choose doors and drawer fronts that complement your kitchen. Some popular styles include:

4. Accurate Measurements:

Accurate measurements are absolutely essential for a successful refacing project. Measure the height and width of each cabinet box opening, as well as the size of your existing doors and drawer fronts. Double-check your measurements before ordering any materials. It's also a good idea to label each cabinet and door with its corresponding measurements to avoid confusion during installation.

5. Gathering Your Tools and Supplies:

Make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies before you begin the project. Here's a basic list:

Removing Old Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

The first step in the refacing process is to remove the old doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. This is a relatively simple process, but it's important to do it carefully to avoid damaging the cabinet boxes.

1. Removing Doors:

Use a screwdriver to remove the hinges from the cabinet boxes. Be sure to keep track of the screws, as you may need them later. If the hinges are painted over, you may need to use a utility knife to score around the edges before removing them.

2. Removing Drawers and Drawer Fronts:

Most drawers are held in place by screws or clips. Remove the screws or release the clips to remove the drawer from the cabinet box. Then, remove the drawer front from the drawer box. Again, keep track of the screws.

3. Removing Hardware:

Remove all knobs, pulls, and handles from the doors and drawer fronts. You may also want to remove any decorative trim or molding.

4. Cleaning the Cabinet Boxes:

Once everything is removed, thoroughly clean the cabinet boxes with a degreaser to remove any dirt, grease, or grime. This will ensure that the new veneer or laminate adheres properly. Sand the surface lightly to create a better bond.

Applying Veneer or Laminate to the Cabinet Boxes

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

1. Cutting the Veneer or Laminate:

Measure and cut the veneer or laminate to the size of each cabinet box panel. Be sure to leave a little extra material on each side for trimming. Use a sharp utility knife or a jigsaw to make the cuts. For best results, use a straight edge as a guide.

2. Applying Contact Cement:

Apply contact cement to both the back of the veneer or laminate and the surface of the cabinet box. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for drying time. Typically, you'll need to let the contact cement dry for 15-30 minutes until it's tacky to the touch.

3. Adhering the Veneer or Laminate:

Carefully align the veneer or laminate with the cabinet box panel. Once the two surfaces touch, they will bond instantly, so be sure to get it right the first time. Use a roller or a J-roller to apply even pressure and ensure a strong bond. Start from the center and work your way out to the edges.

4. Trimming the Edges:

Use a utility knife or a router with a flush-trim bit to trim the excess veneer or laminate from the edges of the cabinet box. Be careful not to damage the surrounding surfaces.

5. Applying Edge Banding:

Apply edge banding to the exposed edges of the cabinet boxes. Edge banding is a thin strip of material that covers the raw edges of the plywood or MDF. It comes in a variety of colors and materials to match your veneer or laminate. You can apply edge banding with an iron or with a special edge banding tool. (Source: Family Handyman)

Installing New Doors, Drawers, and Hardware

With the cabinet boxes refaced, it's time to install the new doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. This is the final step in the refacing process, and it's where your hard work really pays off.

1. Installing Hinges:

Install the hinges on the new doors and cabinet boxes. Use the same screw holes as the old hinges, if possible. If you're using different hinges, you may need to drill new holes. Be sure to use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the screws to avoid stripping the holes. Soft-close hinges are a great upgrade to consider at this point.

2. Hanging Doors:

Hang the doors on the cabinet boxes. Adjust the hinges as needed to ensure that the doors are aligned properly and swing smoothly. Use a level to check that the doors are plumb.

3. Installing Drawer Fronts:

Attach the new drawer fronts to the drawer boxes. Use screws or clips to secure the drawer fronts to the drawer boxes. Make sure the drawer fronts are centered and aligned properly.

4. Installing Hardware:

Install the new knobs, pulls, and handles on the doors and drawer fronts. Use a drill to make holes for the hardware, if necessary. Choose hardware that complements the style of your kitchen. (Source: The Spruce)

Painting Existing Cabinets (Alternative to Refacing)

If your cabinet boxes and doors are in good shape, painting can be an excellent and budget-friendly alternative to refacing. This process requires careful preparation and the right materials for a durable and beautiful finish.

1. Thorough Cleaning and Sanding:

Begin by thoroughly cleaning the cabinets with a degreaser to remove any grease, dirt, or grime. Then, sand the surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper to create a slightly rough surface for the primer to adhere to. Remove sanding dust with a tack cloth. (Source: Bob Vila)

2. Priming is Essential:

Apply a high-quality primer specifically designed for cabinets. Primer helps the paint adhere better, blocks stains, and provides a uniform surface. Use a brush for corners and details and a roller for larger, flat surfaces. Allow the primer to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions.

3. Choosing the Right Paint:

Select a paint that is durable, easy to clean, and designed for kitchen cabinets. Oil-based paints offer a durable finish but require more cleanup and have a stronger odor. Water-based acrylic or latex paints are easier to work with, low in odor, and come in a variety of sheens. Consider a semi-gloss or gloss finish for easier cleaning.

4. Applying the Paint:

Apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. Use a brush for detailed areas and a roller for larger surfaces. Lightly sand between coats with fine-grit sandpaper (220-grit) to remove any imperfections and create a smooth finish. Usually, two to three coats of paint are required for full coverage.

5. Curing Time:

Allow the paint to fully cure before using your cabinets. Curing time can vary depending on the type of paint, but it usually takes several days or even weeks for the paint to reach its maximum hardness and durability.

Conclusion: A Kitchen Transformed

Refacing your cabinets is a rewarding DIY project that can dramatically transform your kitchen without the hefty price tag of a full remodel. By following these steps, you can achieve professional-looking results and create a kitchen you'll love for years to come. Remember to take your time, pay attention to detail, and don't be afraid to ask for help when needed.

Next Steps:

Related Articles