Is cabinet refacing a good investment?

Author: Herbert Keeling  |  Last update: Thursday, July 3, 2025

Refacing cabinets can give your kitchen an updated look without the cost or disruption of a full remodel. It's an efficient option that offers aesthetic appeal at a more budget-friendly price. Cost-Effective: Refacing typically costs less than a full replacement, which can be appealing to budget-conscious sellers.

What is the downside of cabinet refacing?

Cabinet refacing is considered to be less durable than a full replacement, as it does not replace the entire structure of the cabinets. Over time, cabinet frames can become worn or damaged; if that happens, you may need to replace them anyway.

Does refacing cabinets add value?

Added Home Value and Potential Cost Recoupment

While a full kitchen remodel offers the highest return on investment, cabinet refacing also adds value to your home. The fresh look can make a big impact on potential buyers, helping you recoup some of the costs when it's time to sell.

What is the average cost of cabinet refacing?

For homeowners who are looking to update their kitchen cabinets without having to replace them entirely, cabinet refacing is a popular and affordable option. The cost of refacing cabinets typically ranges from $4,500 to $7,000, depending on the materials and layout of your kitchen.

How long do refaced cabinets last?

On average, refaced cabinets can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years or even longer with proper care.

Benefits of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Is it cheaper to buy new cabinets or reface them?

Yes, cabinet refacing is worth it if you want to improve the look of your kitchen without spending too much money. Refacing can save you up to 25% – 50% of the cost of replacing cabinets and can be done in a much shorter time frame than fully replacing all cabinets.

Do refaced cabinets peel?

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Refaced Cabinets

One of the most critical concerns is exposure to heat and steam. Appliances like kettles, Instant Pots, and other high-heat devices can weaken the adhesive holding the laminate or veneer, causing it to peel or warp over time.

Why is cabinet refacing so expensive?

Type of Materials. While you won't need to remove and install new cabinet boxes like you would if you were replacing your cabinets, you will be replacing your old cabinet doors and drawer faces, as well as adding new veneer over the cabinet boxes. The quality of these materials will have a significant impact on price.

How much does it cost to remodel a 10x10 kitchen at Home Depot?

Average Kitchen Size and Layout Basics. Determine your budget before designing the layout of the kitchen. An average 10x10 kitchen remodel costs approximately $26,000, but costs can range from $15,000-$45,000 depending on material quality and additions. The most important aspect of a kitchen layout is the work triangle ...

What is the cheapest way to resurface 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.

What color cabinets have the best resale value?

Moreover, a recent study by HomeLight found that over 60% of real estate agents recommend white, pale gray, or greige (a mixture of gray and beige) for kitchen cabinets to optimize a property's resale value.

Do people still reface cabinets?

Many homeowners today are saving money by refacing rather than completely replacing their existing kitchen cabinets.

Does cabinet refacing include new drawers?

Yes, with cabinet refacing you're simply replacing the doors and drawer fronts with new, custom-made ones that better match your design sensibility. The boxes are repaired, as needed, and then painted or stained to match.

Do you have to remove countertops to reface cabinets?

The short answer is yes, and refacing your cabinets without removing your countertops is possible.

Are more expensive cabinets worth it?

In the world of kitchen cabinets, you truly get what you pay for, especially when it comes to durability and longevity. High-end materials and construction methods might come with a steeper initial cost, but they pay off in the long run.

Does cabinet refacing increase home value?

Since kitchen cabinet refacing is faster than a full kitchen remodel, it offers an immediate boost in home value and a higher return on investment. Modern, move-in-ready kitchens also make a positive impression on potential buyers during home tours, leading to a higher selling price and quicker sale.

Is $10,000 enough for kitchen remodel?

' Depending on the place you live in, most kitchen remodels' costs start at $10000 and go way higher upto $100,000. So it seems like a far off dream for most of us to get ourselves a top-notch new kitchen in such a small amount.

Is $30,000 enough for a kitchen remodel?

A $30,000 budget is usually sufficient for a mid-range kitchen remodel, but the final cost will depend on your specific needs and design goals.

Can I remodel my kitchen for $20000?

Types of kitchen remodels

For slightly more substantial work (replacing floor, more appliances), you may be able to get away with $10,000 to $20,000 on a small kitchen upgrade. Midrange: involves adding design elements like a kitchen island, installing custom cabinetry and changing the flooring and lighting.

What are the problems with refacing kitchen cabinets?

The most common problems with refacing kitchen cabinets include peeling laminate, worn-out hinges, and mismatched cabinet doors. Worn-out hinges make it difficult to open or close cabinets properly, and mismatched cabinet doors can make the cabinet look unprofessional and unappealing.

Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?

Refacing has lower initial costs than replacing because you are leaving the existing cabinet structure intact, but replacement provides unmatched value in the long run. With a complete overhaul, you get the opportunity to upgrade both the design and functionality of your kitchen.

How can I make my cabinets look more expensive?

5 simple ways to make your kitchen cabinets look more expensive
  1. Opt for high quality hardware.
  2. Style the cabinet contents.
  3. Paint your cabinets.
  4. Add under-cabinet lighting.
  5. Add decorative moldings.

What is the cheapest way to reface kitchen cabinets?

3 Budget-Friendly Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Ideas
  1. Paint your cabinets. A fresh coat of paint can go a long way. ...
  2. Strip paint from wood cabinets. Another option that costs even less than painting your cabinets is to strip and sand them. ...
  3. Get rid of the doors entirely.

How long does cabinet refacing take?

The average timeline for a cabinet refinishing or refacing project depends on the size and complexity of the job. While smaller projects may be completed within 3-5 days of active work, the overall process typically spans several weeks.

What does cabinet refacing include?

Refacing kitchen cabinets replaces the cabinet skin panels to give your kitchen a new look. It entails removing cabinet doors and drawer fronts to apply a new veneer over the existing surface. Refacing can also involve replacing hardware such as hinges, handles, and drawer pulls.

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