Reface Vs Replace Kitchen Cabinets: My Personal Experience
When I moved into my new home, the kitchen cabinets were outdated and in desperate need of a makeover. I was torn between refacing and replacing the cabinets. After doing some research, I decided to go for refacing, and I am glad I did. In this article, I will share my personal experience and insights on refacing vs. replacing kitchen cabinets.
Step-by-Step Guide for Current Trends on Reface Vs Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Reface
Reface refers to the process of changing the look of your kitchen cabinets without changing the cabinet structure. The process involves removing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware and replacing them with new ones. The cabinet frames remain intact, and a veneer or laminate is applied to the exterior surface to match the new doors and drawer fronts.
Here are the steps involved in refacing kitchen cabinets:
- Remove cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware.
- Clean and sand the exterior of the cabinet frames.
- Apply a veneer or laminate to the exterior of the cabinet frames.
- Install new cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware.
Replace
Replacing kitchen cabinets involves tearing out the existing cabinets and replacing them with new ones. This option allows you to completely change the layout and design of your kitchen, including the cabinet structure, size, and functionality.
Here are the steps involved in replacing kitchen cabinets:
- Remove existing cabinets.
- Design and order new cabinets.
- Install new cabinets.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas on Reface Vs Replace Kitchen Cabinets
If you are considering refacing or replacing your kitchen cabinets, here are some tips and ideas to help you make an informed decision:
- Assess the condition of your existing cabinets: If your cabinets are in good condition and the layout works for you, refacing may be a better option.
- Consider your budget: Refacing is generally less expensive than replacing cabinets.
- Think about the style you want: Refacing allows you to change the look of your cabinets without changing the layout. If you want a completely new design, replacing may be a better option.
- Consider the timeline: Refacing can be done in a few days, while replacing cabinets can take several weeks.
- Think about functionality: If you want to add more storage or change the layout of your kitchen, replacing cabinets may be the better option.
- Consider the resale value: Replacing cabinets can increase the resale value of your home.
- Think about the environmental impact: Refacing is a more environmentally friendly option since it involves less waste.
- Consider the expertise required: Refacing can be done by a DIY enthusiast, while replacing cabinets requires more expertise.
- Think about the disruption to your daily life: Refacing is less disruptive since it can be done in a few days.
- Consider the long-term maintenance: Refacing requires less maintenance since the cabinet structure remains intact.
Pros and Cons of Reface Vs Replace Kitchen Cabinets
Reface
Pros:
- Less expensive than replacing cabinets
- Can be done in a few days
- Less disruptive to your daily life
- More environmentally friendly
Cons:
- Limited design options
- Cannot change the layout or functionality of your kitchen
- May not increase the resale value of your home as much as replacing cabinets
Replace
Pros:
- Allows you to completely change the layout and functionality of your kitchen
- Can increase the resale value of your home
- More design options
Cons:
- More expensive than refacing cabinets
- Takes longer to complete
- More disruptive to your daily life
- Less environmentally friendly
My Personal Review and Suggestion on Reface Vs Replace Kitchen Cabinets
After considering my budget, timeline, and design preferences, I decided to reface my kitchen cabinets. I was impressed with the results, and the process was quick and easy. The new veneer and cabinet doors transformed the look of my kitchen, and I was able to save money compared to replacing the cabinets.
However, I would suggest considering replacing the cabinets if you want to completely change the layout or functionality of your kitchen. If you plan on selling your home in the near future, replacing cabinets may also be a better option since it can increase the resale value of your home.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: How long does refacing kitchen cabinets last?
A: Refacing can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Q: Can I refinish my cabinets instead of refacing or replacing?
A: Yes, you can refinish your cabinets if they are in good condition. Refinishing involves sanding and restaining the cabinets to give them a new look.
Q: Can I do refacing or replacing myself?
A: Refacing can be done by a DIY enthusiast, but replacing cabinets requires more expertise and is best left to professionals.
Q: How much does it cost to reface or replace kitchen cabinets?
A: Refacing can cost between $3,000 and $8,000, while replacing cabinets can cost between $5,000 and $20,000, depending on the size of your kitchen and the materials used.