Reasons to Avoid DIY Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Having an attractive kitchen is essential for many of us as we spend so much time there. However, it might be time for a renewed look when the fixtures show their age. But to purchase and install a new kitchen can cost thousands of dollars.

Luckily, the option to spruce up your kitchen by refacing the cabinets offers a cheaper alternative with less hassle. But while the idea of undertaking the job as a DIY project to save additional money may seem like a good one, the results could end up costing a lot more.

Please keep reading to learn why leaving this job to a professional might be the best idea.

Time-consuming

A DIY kitchen cabinet refacing project is not as easy as it sounds.

Little know-how in this area could mean the project could go on longer than planned. The labor itself will take time, as well as finding the right tools and materials and learning the process and techniques. In addition, juggling work and other everyday life commitments will play a significant role in the project's duration. You may not be able to commit to completing the job in a reasonable time.

On the other hand, although calling a professional means increasing the overall cost, doing so can eliminate the headache of fitting the work into your schedule. Also, your kitchen cabinets can be refaced and ready for use in a matter of days.

Accidental corner cutting

Due to the lack of experience and to compensate for the time-consumption demands, many homeowners unintentionally leave out parts of the process they didn't know were necessary. For example, they may not know that the doors need to be removed first or that basic prep includes cleaning, sanding, and priming before paint application. No matter how excellent you are at DIY projects, there is the risk of producing an unsatisfactory result.

If this happens, you will need to hire a professional to rectify mistakes. Doing so will add to the initial costs and time taken. The project's total cost may even end up exceeding your planned budget.

Potential to cause damage

It's also possible that the true extent of damage and work required to revamp kitchen cabinets are only known when the actual work begins. At this point, you could find out that the project is too challenging to address alone. If the cabinets are pretty outdated, a professional will inspect and identify the extent of damage upfront. They'll offer a long-term solution with accurate estimates to help the project stay on budget.

Get a professional's touch for your kitchen cabinets

Consider getting in touch with an experienced joiner or carpenter to help keep the overall costs low. It's best to get a professional finish designed to last, save time, and avoid headaches.


The Wood Doctor is the leader in wood restoration, refinishing and refacing in the Portland area. Call 503-560-5220 for a project consultation.