Should You Reface or Replace Your Outdated Kitchen Cabinets?

Is your kitchen stuck in a time warp? Do you cringe looking at the outdated cabinets every time you walk in? If your kitchen is in dire need of an update but you're unsure whether to reface or replace the existing cabinets, read on.

We'll compare the cost, process, and end results of refacing vs replacing to help you make the best decision for your goals, budget and kitchen's condition.

Refacing Costs Far Less Than Buying New Custom Cabinets

The biggest appeal of refacing your kitchen cabinets lies in the cost savings. By keeping your existing cabinet boxes intact and simply replacing the doors, frames and hardware, you can refresh the look for 30-50% less than a full cabinet replacement.

On average, expect to spend $2,500-5,500 to reface your kitchen cabinets. Comparatively, installing new custom cabinetry can cost $15,000-25,000 or more. If you're working with a limited budget but still want an updated kitchen, refacing provides an affordable facial.

Factors That Impact the Cost of Refacing

When getting quotes for refacing, the final price will depend on:

• The materials and style of your new cabinet doors and hardware - high-end options will increase costs
• The size of your kitchen and total number of cabinets
• Add-ons like glass cabinet inserts, crown molding or decorative trim details

What's Included in Full Cabinet Replacement Costs

For comparison, replacing your cabinets involves a more extensive process and higher costs including:

• Complete removal and disposal of your old cabinets
• Purchase and installation of all new cabinet boxes, doors, drawers
• Labor for the demolition work and new cabinet installation
• Often paired with countertop replacement, sink/appliance upgrades

Refacing is Less Disruptive With a Much Shorter Timeline

Another benefit of refacing your kitchen cabinets is the refacing process itself is far less invasive, allowing you to complete the project in just a few days.

With refacing, your existing cabinet boxes remain intact so no major demolition work is required. The kitchen also remains functional during the process, avoiding an extended kitchen remodel.

The Process of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets

The general refacing steps involve:

• Removing doors, hinges and hardware from cabinet frames
• Prepping and sanding boxes, frames and doors
• Repairing any flaws or damage in the cabinet box structures
• Applying new finishes, paint or textures to boxes and doors
• Reinstalling upgraded doors, hinges and hardware
• Adding custom accents like glass inserts, trim

With an experienced contractor, you can complete a cosmetic kitchen cabinet makeover in just a few days.

Replacing Cabinets is a Lengthy Remodel

In contrast, replacing your kitchen cabinets is a much larger undertaking. It typically takes weeks to complete from start to finish.

The process involves a full teardown of your old cabinetry, intensive installation work for the new cabinets, plus electrical and plumbing modifications as needed. Countertop replacement and new sinks/appliances are also often paired with the project.

All this adds up to a major kitchen renovation that leaves you out of commission in the heart of your home for an extended period.

Refacing Updates the Look, Replacing Completely Transforms

We've compared the cost and process - now let's discuss the end results. Does refacing or replacing better align with the changes you want to make?

Refacing - Quick Kitchen Facelift

If your goal is a cosmetic upgrade, refacing gives your existing cabinets a fresh facelift. The new cabinet doors, hardware and improved finish provide an instant visual update.

Refacing offers an affordable way to update the style and finish of worn or damaged cabinets without undergoing a full replacement.

Replacing - Total Kitchen Remodel

In contrast, a full cabinet replacement allows you to completely transform the look, layout and functionality of your kitchen. With new cabinets, you can:

• Change the footprint and placement of cabinets
• Gain custom storage solutions
• Organize better workflow and layout
• Pair with countertop, backsplash and appliance upgrades

While pricier, replacement revitalizes your whole kitchen for the long run.

Key Factors to Consider About Refacing or Replacing

When deciding whether to reface or replace outdated kitchen cabinets, weigh the following:

• Budget - Refacing is more affordable; replacing costs significantly more
• Cabinet condition - Refacing works best if boxes are intact; replacing if moisture/insect damage
• Goals - Reface for a facelift, replace for a deeper remodel
• Timeline - Refacing done in days vs weeks for replacement
• Customization - Replacing allows greater layout and storage flexibility

When deciding whether to reface or replace outdated kitchen cabinets, the main factors come down to your budget, the extent of your desired updates, and your timeline.

Refacing offers a quick, affordable way to give cabinets a facelift. Replacing provides a deeper renovation allowing you to fully customize your kitchen. Assess the condition of your current cabinets along with your goals and resources to determine the best route for your kitchen.

Get estimates for both refacing and replacement. Comparing quotes will help you make the right cabinetry decision for your home and budget.