Give Your Kitchen a Makeover by Changing Cabinet Doors
Is your kitchen looking tired and outdated? Do you dream of a fresh, new look but don't have the budget for a major renovation? Updating your cabinet doors can give your kitchen a whole new style for just a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
Replacing cabinet doors provides an inexpensive way to transform the look of your kitchen in a weekend. New doors can make even the most outdated kitchen look fresh and modern again.
Assessing Your Current Cabinet Doors
The first step is to take a close look at your existing cabinet doors. Check for any damage, dents, cracks or peeling finishes. Worn out doors with broken hinges or major flaws will need full replacement.
Also consider the current style. If your doors have an outdated or unattractive style, like 80s-style oak or ornate carved fronts, replacing them can instantly modernize the space. Measure the height, width and depth of each door, along with hinge positions. This will allow you to order replacement doors that fit properly.
When to Refinish vs. Replace
If your doors are still in good condition but look dull or scratched, refinishing them with new stain or paint may be sufficient. However, if the style is very outdated or you want a major change, full replacement will give you more options.
Choosing New Cabinet Doors
When selecting replacement cabinet doors, there are several factors to consider:
- Material - Popular options include wood, thermofoil, glass, and metal.
- Durability - Consider your lifestyle and how prone doors will be to damage.
- Cost - Custom doors are most expensive; pre-made standard sizes cost less.
- Design - Doors can match your current cabinet finish or provide contrast.
Take measurements to shop for pre-made standard sizes, or opt for custom doors tailored to your specific cabinets. The design options are endless!
Style and Finish Considerations
Opt for sleek, simple styles like shaker or slab doors for a contemporary look. For traditional kitchens, choose classical framed panel doors. Go bold with colorful lacquered or patterned doors. The choices are endless!
Select a finish that matches your current cabinets or intentionally contrasts them. For example, white doors can lighten up dark wood cabinets. Stained doors coordinate well with existing wood cabinetry.
Removing the Old Cabinet Doors
Removing existing doors is quite straightforward. Start by detaching the doors from the hinges. Using a drill or screwdriver, remove each hinge screw. Lift the door up and off once all screws are out.
Use care not to damage the cabinet boxes when removing doors. Fill any screw holes in cabinets with wood filler and sand smooth. Thoroughly clean cabinet interiors before installing new doors.
Helpful Tools for Removal
Having the right tools will make door removal much simpler. A power drill with Phillips head bit makes quick work of removing screw. A pry bar helps gently pull doors free that are stuck due to paint or grime buildup.
Installing the New Doors
Always install new hinges on replacement doors before hanging them. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions. Typically, you'll attach hinges to door backs first, then position on cabinets.
Hold the door in place in the cabinet opening where you want it. Mark pilot hole locations on the cabinet face frames. Drill holes then fasten hinges in place with screws. Adjust the fit and hinge tension until the door operates smoothly without rubbing.
Achieving the Perfect Fit
Take your time to get the door alignment just right as you attach the hinges. Make sure doors seal properly when closed without any light peeking through. The patience will pay off when you have beautiful new doors!
Finishing Touches
Consider adding decorative hardware like knobs or pulls to give doors even more flair. Painting or staining new doors to match or contrast your existing cabinet finish can provide that perfect custom look.
Be sure to thoroughly clean countertops and cabinets once the new doors are up. Finally, pull the whole new look together with coordinating kitchen accessories and decor.
The great thing about only swapping out the doors is you refresh the kitchen's style at a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. It also requires minimal time and effort compared to a major renovation.
In just a weekend, you can give your kitchen a complete transformation with new cabinet doors. Finally enjoy the fresh, modern kitchen you've dreamed of - without breaking the bank!