Is it cheaper to resurface or replace kitchen cabinets?

Author: Imelda Littel IV  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

While costs can vary according to location, materials, and the scope of the project, it on average costs 30 to 50 percent less to reface a cabinet than to replace them entirely.

Is it better to resurface or replace kitchen cabinets?

If you're changing the layout and design of your kitchen or your original cabinets are in bad shape, replacing them is the way to go. In most cases, refacing kitchen cabinets will save 30 to 50 percent in comparison to the cost of replacing kitchen cabinets.

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.

What is the average cost to resurface kitchen cabinets?

The cost of refacing cabinets typically ranges from $4,500 to $7,000, depending on the materials and layout of your kitchen. You can quickly, and at a discounted price, update the look of your kitchen without having to do a full renovation by choosing cabinet refacing.

What is the least expensive way to redo 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.

Should I Repaint, Reface, or Replace my Kitchen Cabinets?

What is the most expensive part of a kitchen remodel?

Cabinets are also one of the foundational aspects of your kitchen; one that is obviously essential for storage and is required to make a functional space. This is the main reason they are also the most expensive part of your kitchen's remodel.

How can I update my old kitchen cabinets without replacing them?

Let's Begin!
  1. 9 Ways to Update Kitchen Cabinets without Replacing Them. Paint Kitchen Cabinets. ...
  2. Distress the Cabinets. ...
  3. Whitewash. ...
  4. Two-Tone. ...
  5. Change the Cabinet Handles. ...
  6. Add Molding. ...
  7. Change the Kitchen Door Fronts. ...
  8. Install Under-Cabinet Lighting.

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.

Can old cabinets be refaced?

Cabinet refacing is an affordable way to upgrade your cabinetry—better yet, it's a process that can be repeated down the road if your tastes have changed or your cabinet doors are looking worse for wear.

Is kitchen resurfacing worth it?

Homeowners consider cabinet refacing when they want to change the mood in their kitchen, keeping the layout as it is. This kitchen upgrade method brings in advantages like saving money, less construction work at home, and being more eco-friendly.

Can I replace cabinets without replacing countertops?

Yes, it is possible to replace cabinets without removing the countertops by carefully detaching the cabinets and keeping the countertops intact. However, this process requires precision to avoid damaging the countertops and the surrounding areas.

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.

Is it cheaper to paint cabinets or reface them?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes and cabinet frames. Refacing is more costly than painting but offers more customization options.

When should kitchen cabinets be replaced?

8 Signs You Should Update Your Kitchen's Cabinets
  1. Lack of Storage Space in the Kitchen. ...
  2. Excessive Wear and Tear. ...
  3. Kitchen Cabinet Doors Don't Function Correctly. ...
  4. Your Kitchen Smells Funny. ...
  5. The Cabinets Are Old Fashioned. ...
  6. Cluttered Countertops. ...
  7. Water Damage. ...
  8. Outdated Kitchen Design.

What do professionals use to refinish kitchen cabinets?

We recommend using one of two products: Sherwin Williams Emerald Urethane Trim Enamel or Benjamin Moore's Advance. Both of these products will give your cabinets a much longer paint lifespan because they're specifically designed for painting cabinets and trim.

Does replacing cabinets increase home value?

Kitchen Remodel Average ROI

According to a 2023 survey from Remodeling Magazine, a major kitchen renovation or upgrade has an average ROI (return on investment) of 31.7%. That means that for every $100 you spend on your kitchen remodel, you are increasing the resale value of your home by about $37.

How to restore kitchen cabinets on a budget?

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.

Is it cheaper to replace cabinets or just the doors?

By merely changing the doors, you can breathe new life into your kitchen, and that too without a hefty price tag. It's a significantly more affordable alternative to replacing the entire cabinet set. New doors offer a wallet-friendly way to modernize your kitchen, making it feel brand new again.

Can I resurface my kitchen cabinets myself?

Simply put, refacing kitchen cabinets can be done by the following: Remove the doors and drawers of each cabinet. Cover the front edges of the cabinets with peel and stick wood veneer. Hang the new cabinet doors with easy-to-install cup hinges.

What's the average cost to reface kitchen cabinets?

The average cost to reface cabinets typically ranges between $4,000 to $9,500. The national average project cost is around $6,750, or $100 to $250 per linear foot. The exact total cost can vary based on the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and labor costs in your area.

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.

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.

How to change cabinets for cheap?

Affordable Kitchen Cabinet Replacements and Updates
  1. Paint Your Old Cabinets. ...
  2. Resurface Cabinets. ...
  3. Stock or Semi-Custom Cabinets. ...
  4. Ready to Assemble Cabinets. ...
  5. High-Quality Used Cabinets. ...
  6. Use a New Wood Finish on Your Cabinets. ...
  7. Self-Install Your New Kitchen Cabinets.

What are the kitchen trends for 2025?

9 Top Kitchen Color Trends Experts Predict for 2025
  • Warm Earth Tones Are Trending. ...
  • Brown Will Be the "It" Neutral. ...
  • Statement Backsplashes and Metallic Accents Will Be In. ...
  • Shades of Blue Will Be Popular. ...
  • There Will Be a Shift Toward Natural Wood Cabinets and Work Surfaces. ...
  • Deep and Rich Paint Colors Will Be Making a Statement.

Are honey maple cabinets outdated?

Maple wood kitchen cabinets are incredibly versatile! And far from outdated. They're one of the most durable woods used in kitchen cabinets, and with the right finishes, they can fit in perfectly with any look, whether it's a traditional, modern, rustic, or contemporary kitchen.

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