Refinishing vs. Refacing Cabinets
Let’s face it: “refinishing” and “refacing” are often used interchangeably. But in the world of home improvement, there’s a major difference between the two. While both can transform your cabinets, one requires significantly more work and investment.
So, before deciding on whether to refinish or reface old kitchen cabinets, it’s time to learn more about the distinction.
Refinishing
The name “refinishing” explains the distinction from refacing. A refinished cabinet is taken down and disassembled. It’s then sanded and topped with a new finishing coat, hence the name. It’s more of a cabinet facelift than a makeover.
Cabinets with minor damages, such as chipped or faded paint, can be brought back to life with refinishing. Another reason for choosing this option is to keep the existing cabinet style while upgrading its finish.
However, this option only works if the existing cabinets are in good shape, meaning there’s no existing damage to them. Refinishing also has some limitations. For example, this method can’t update older, traditional cabinet doors to sleek, modern ones. To make this change, homeowners would need to replace the doors completely. Along the same lines, refinishing won’t turn previously painted cabinet doors into rustic, stained wood masterpieces. Again, the cabinet doors would need replacing.
A refinishing project can cost as low as $1,500 but skyrocket into the $5,000 range. It all depends on the work needed and the materials chosen.
Refacing
Old kitchen cabinets are an eyesore. Nicks, stains, and scratches are a few glaring issues a homeowner faces whenever they enter the kitchen. However, refacing may be the perfect fit if the only issue is the cabinets.
Refacing involves giving the cabinets a makeover but doesn’t impact the existing kitchen’s design. This means that the only details changed are the doors and hardware.
Although the replacements seem simple on the surface, refacing cabinets is time-consuming work. After removing all doors and drawer fronts, you must remove any parts you wish to replace, like hinges, drawer slides, and drawer tracks.
Though pricier than refinishing, changing the doors provides more styling options besides color and increases the cabinet’s lifespan.
Homeowners may pay anywhere from $4,000 to $9,500 to reface kitchen cabinets. However, that price may vary depending on the number and size of cabinets, material, and quality of door fronts.
Refacing is a better option for those who want to change the style of cabinets entirely. Changing the entire inner and outer hardware can allow you to personalize and increase the cabinets’ functionality.
Call in a professional
Whether refinishing cabinets to their former splendor or refacing them to update a kitchen, it’s a big job for anyone, even veteran DIYers. It requires specific technical knowledge, accuracy, and experience to complete the job. Rather than attempting a kitchen project alone, call a professional service. They have the expertise and understanding to ensure a kitchen makeover doesn’t become a disaster.
The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.