Cabinet refacing is often taken as a budget-friendly alternative for full cabinet replacement, though many homeowners are surprised how pricey the process can become. If you have ever found yourself wondering why this is so, then join the club. Several reasons contribute to this cost and in this post, we will break them down for you.
What is Cabinet Refacing?
Cabinet refacing is simply replacing the exterior surfaces of your kitchen cabinets, including the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. This leaves the cabinet boxes alone but gives the new veneer or laminate surface to the boxes themselves to match the new doors and drawers. It is less expensive than a full replacement but can be pricey nonetheless.
Factors Contributing to the High Cost of Cabinet Refacing
Here are some key reasons why cabinet refacing can be an expensive project:
1. Quality Materials
Materials used for cabinetry refacing are normally of high quality, again in the interest of durability and a long-lasting finish. Solid woods, veneers, and laminates can be used and are designed to last under wear and tear, but again, it means a tag is higher in quality.
2. Customization
You can also personalize your cabinet doors, finishes, and hardware with cabinet refacing. Unique door styles, rich finishes, and specialty hardware may be part of your custom options, and that could push your costs higher. The more you personalize your options, the bigger the bill.
3. Labor Costs
Actually, skilled labor is required in cabinet refacing. The old doors have to be removed carefully while the new veneer or laminate has to be stuck on the cabinet boxes along with installing the new hardware and doors. It really takes time, especially when dealing with alignment, so naturally, skilled labor is rather expensive.
4. Precision and Craftsmanship
The level of precision during the refacing of the cabinets is quite high because one needs to apply veneer or laminate in an absolutely smooth way and must also install the doors just right. Craftsmanship and therefore money is needed to get a good, even finish. The gaps on the cabinets may look unattractive or the misaligned doors will eventually let the veneer peel.
5. Installation Time
Although refacing is faster than replacement, it still takes some time. The installation usually takes 3 to 5 days, depending on the size of your kitchen and the complexity of the job. This length will add to the total amount of labor costs, causing the price to go even higher.
Comparing Costs: Refacing vs. Replacement
Though cabinet refacing can be expensive, it's important to note that it is still more affordable than replacing all your cabinets. A full replacement, especially with custom cabinetry, can cost 50% to 75% more than refacing. Refacing provides a middle ground between upgrading the appearance of your kitchen and saving money compared to a complete overhaul.
Is Cabinet Refacing Worth the Investment?
Despite the high cost, cabinet refacing can be a worthwhile investment for several reasons:
- Cost Savings: While expensive, refacing is still cheaper than replacing cabinets entirely.
- Eco-Friendly: Refacing reuses existing cabinet boxes, making it a more sustainable option than replacement.
- Less Disruption: Refacing is quicker and less invasive, allowing you to keep your kitchen functional during the process.
How to Reduce the Cost of Cabinet Refacing
If you're set on refacing your cabinets but want to keep costs under control, here are a few tips:
- Choose Laminate Over Wood: Laminate is often more affordable than solid wood or wood veneer and can still provide a beautiful finish.
- Limit Custom Features: Opt for standard door styles and finishes to avoid the higher costs associated with customization.
- Reuse Existing Hardware: If your current hardware is still in good condition, consider reusing it instead of buying new pieces.
While cabinet refacing may seem expensive, the cost is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and customization options. It offers a more budget-friendly alternative to cabinet replacement while still giving your kitchen a fresh, updated look. If you’re considering refacing your cabinets, be sure to factor in the various costs and weigh them against the benefits before making your decision.