How do you replace kitchen cabinets but keep countertops?

Author: Prof. Lempi Williamson Jr.  |  Last update: Saturday, September 2, 2023

Refacing the cabinets — under your existing countertops and throughout your entire kitchen — creates a whole new look, just like a full cabinet tear out and replacement.. Plus, cabinet refacing is an innovative process that can help you save up to 50% on remodeling costs and leave your kitchen looking completely new.

Can I replace kitchen cabinets without replacing countertop?

That's right, cabinet refacing allows you to transform your kitchen's appearance while keeping your countertops intact. Let's explore this cost-effective and convenient solution in more detail.

Can you remove cabinets and keep countertops?

Replacing your kitchen's countertop is sometimes the easiest way to breathe new life into your home's design. Because you can replace it without having to replace your cabinetry, too, you'll save some money in the process.

Should I replace cabinets or countertops first?

It's generally recommended for the cabinets to be done first, protecting their integrity and making countertop installation as smooth as possible. This will ensure that: The countertop material(s) are only moved/installed once. There is less chance of cracking, breaking or chipping of countertop material(s)

Can I just replace the kitchen cabinets?

Most homeowners spend between $4,000 and $9,000 to reface all of their kitchen cabinets, which gives an all-new look for nearly 50 percent less than the cost to fully replace the cabinetry. Many homeowners are choosing to replace just their lower kitchen cabinets for a change that's still noticeable and clean.

Install Cabinets Under Existing Countertops

Does replacing cabinets increase home value?

Another one of Olhausen's favorite ways to increase the value of a kitchen is to update the cabinets. "Whether painting cabinets, updating hardware, or completely changing them out, this is a sure way to completely change the look of a kitchen," explains Olhausen.

Is it cheaper to replace cabinets or just the doors?

COST OF REPLACING CABINETS

New cabinets cost more than just swapping out the door fronts. On average, you could spend anywhere between $3,000 to $18,000 on your full cabinet replacement. Your project may cost more or less than that average, depending on your specific needs.

Do countertops sit directly on cabinets?

Since countertops sit directly on the cabinets, the cabinetry must be installed prior to the final measurements, fabrication, and installation. If an apron or farmhouse sink is being used, it must be installed prior to template process.

What order should I replace my kitchen?

To give you a bit more insight into how upgrading your kitchen works, here's our quick-read guide to what needs to happen and when:
  1. Planning. ...
  2. Site Preparation. ...
  3. Plumbing and electrics. ...
  4. Walls and floors. ...
  5. Cabinets and units. ...
  6. Appliance installation. ...
  7. The final touches.

What is the most cost effective way to replace countertops?

Synthetic materials are typically less expensive than natural stone, with laminate and acrylic being the most cost-effective choices. "Soapstone and tile are also lower-cost options for countertop materials, but they come with some weaknesses like low durability and limited color options," says Carson.

Can I replace cabinet doors only?

Replacing just your cabinet doors, also known as cabinet refacing, can be a quick DIY project for most homeowners. The best part about replacing just your cabinet doors is that it is cheaper than replacing the whole cabinet. In fact, you may also be able to reuse your existing hardware to further the savings.

How long does it take to replace cabinets and countertops?

A cabinet install normally takes two to three days. And, countertops take an additional two weeks from template to install. Long story short, a kitchen remodel timelines for a simple remove and replace typically spans six to eight weeks.

Are countertops more expensive than cabinets?

The cost to replace kitchen cabinets and countertops is $6,000 to $21,000 for an average-sized kitchen. New kitchen cabinets cost $4,500 to $15,000 installed, while countertops cost $1,500 to $6,000. Total costs depend on the style, materials, quality, features, and amount of customization.

How do you replace cabinets without removing countertops?

Refacing the cabinets — under your existing countertops and throughout your entire kitchen — creates a whole new look, just like a full cabinet tear out and replacement.. Plus, cabinet refacing is an innovative process that can help you save up to 50% on remodeling costs and leave your kitchen looking completely new.

Can you reuse quartz countertops when replacing cabinets?

However, the question is whether quartz countertops can be handily removed from old kitchen cabinets for reuse. The answer is yes – if both the old and new cabinets are the same size.

Do cabinet makers do countertops?

Cabinet Maker Responsibilities

Verify dimensions of carving, using rule and dividers. Design, replace, and maintain electrical, plumbing and HVAC systems. Skil in using veneer, solid wood, Formica, among other types of wood. Resurface bathtubs and counter tops.

What is the number one rule in the kitchen?

1. Wash your hands well and often. Washing your hands well and often is the golden rule of food safety. Your hands are full of bacteria, and you pick up new bacteria every time you touch something.

What is the golden rule for kitchen design?

Rule 1: The Work Triangle

The "Work Triangle" - the triangle made by the stove, the sink and the refrigerator - should be compact enough that it allows convenient and effective circulation for the chef, but generous enough that two people working in the kitchen aren't bumping into one another.

What comes first in kitchen remodel?

You'll need to undo the current kitchen, replace plumbing and electric, add drywall and get painting. After cabinets and flooring have been installed, it's ready for beautiful stone countertops of your choice, a stunning backsplash, and new appliances.

What time is best for kitchen countertops?

If you're looking to upgrade your countertops after the holiday season, or are potentially treating yourself to this as a holiday gift, February and March are a great time to do so. Usually, during this time, the busier season for both kitchen remodeling companies and yourself is over.

What holds countertop to cabinet?

Once the fit is confirmed, the seams can be joined with butterfly clamps, biscuit joiners and glue. Finish securing the laminate countertop to the cabinets with screws, making sure the screw is long enough to hold securely but not so long as to puncture the top surface.

How long does a countertop install take?

On average, it can take between 2 to 7 hours to install kitchen countertops, depending on the size of the kitchen and how complex the design is. Countertops with more cut-outs will take longer to install. This time frame doesn't consider time for creating a countertop template, fabricating, or delivery.

How much is labor only to install kitchen cabinets?

Average labor cost

Including preparation and cleanup, the typical labor cost to install kitchen cabinets can range between $80 and $190 per cabinet, or $50 to $450 per linear foot. The installation price mostly varies depending on the type of cabinets involved and the professional you hire to do the job.

What is the cheapest way to do kitchen cabinets?

If your goal is to update the look of your existing cabinets, the cheapest route is to simply reface them. This process involves either stripping the stain or paint from the existing cabinets and adding new stain, varnish or paint; in some cases, you might even want to refinish the cabinets with a stick-on veneer.

How to replace kitchen cabinets on a budget?

7 Affordable Kitchen Cabinet Updating Tips
  1. Paint Your Old Cabinets. ...
  2. Update Your Kitchen's Lighting. ...
  3. Add Glass Doors. ...
  4. Add Cabinet Wallpaper. ...
  5. Add a Backsplash. ...
  6. Use a New Wood Finish on Your Cabinets. ...
  7. Self-Install Your New Kitchen Cabinets. ...
  8. Under $1,000.

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