So, you want to refine your kitchen cabinets but you’re not sure if you should reface or replace them. Recognizing which process would work best for your individual case can help you avoid lots of complications. Let’s look at the processes and factors to help you decide between refacing your cabinets or replacing them completely.
Refacing
Refacing your kitchen cabinets is generally 50% less expensive than replacing them all together, sometimes it’s even less depending on what you want to do. Refacing offers a lot of options and ways to customize your cabinets. For example, new wood, laminate veneer, and or new paint can be a simple way to breathe new life into the kitchen. You can also install replacement drawers or add other additions to increase the use and appeal of your cabinets.
As long as your cabinet foundation is secure, refacing would be a very economical option. However, this is only the best option if your cabinets are fit to expand upon. The best refacing is done when cabinets are in good condition.
Replacing
Determining the condition of your cabinets is key for both options. If your cabinets are significantly damaged, refacing on top of the damage won’t repair it. This could even accelerate cabinet decay. Speaking of decay, you’ll want to check your cabinets inside and out for any signs of wood rot or water damage. If the drawers smell foul, this can indicate damage to wooden frames and other key areas. If this is the case, it might be best to replace the cabinetry rather than refacing over cabinets that are slowly falling apart!
Another way to determine whether replacing your kitchen cabinets is the better option is simply to consider how the cabinets complement your kitchen. If the cabinets seem flimsy or just don’t seem to go well with your kitchen, replacing them can help you bring the whole room together. If you’re already planning to really change your kitchen, replacing your cabinets all together could also help you more effectively coordinate the different aspects of your room.
Getting Started
In both cases, you’ll probably want to work with professionals who are skilled at both refacing and replacing kitchen cabinets. Make sure to research the reputation of contractors and specialists, as this will greatly influence the final product. Be sure to get professionals to look at your cabinets and determine whether they’re in good condition, again this can save you a lot of money in the long run and help you narrow your decision right there.
Customizing your cabinets is a big undertaking whether you choose to reface or replace. Before beginning the process, make sure you have a clear vision of what you’d like to see in your kitchen. At Custom Maryland, we pride ourselves on providing the skill and insight to help you accomplish all of your home customizations! If you’re considering having work done on your cabinets or other projects, we can help you make your vision a reality!