There Are Three Traditional Ways to Transform Your Cabinets Plus One Great Idea You May Not Have Considered
1. Cabinet Painting/Refinishing
Cabinet painting or refinishing is a popular choice for homeowners who want to update their kitchen cabinets without spending a fortune. This option involves removing the cabinet doors and hardware, sanding down the surfaces, and applying a fresh coat of paint/polyurethane. It can completely transform the look of your cabinets and give them a fresh, updated appearance. Additionally, it allows you to choose any color or finish that suits your style and complements your kitchen decor. If your cabinets are in good condition and you're happy with their layout, cabinet painting or refinishing can be a cost-effective and efficient way to update your kitchen.
Pros:
- Affordable and Relatively Quick Process
- Can Choose Any Color You Want
- Great Short Term Option
Cons:
- It Just changes color, not the style
- Older/Damaged Cabinets may not be worth painting
- Quality/Durability varies by product and painter experience
2. Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing is another popular option for updating kitchen cabinets. This process involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while leaving the cabinet boxes intact. The existing cabinets are covered with a veneer or painted to match the new doors and drawer fronts. This gives the cabinets a completely new look without the need for a full replacement. Cabinet refacing is a good choice if your cabinets are in good condition structurally, but their appearance is outdated or worn. It's a more affordable option compared to full cabinet replacement and can be completed in a shorter time frame.
During a cabinet refacing project, you can also choose to add new hardware, such as handles or knobs, to further enhance the updated look of your cabinets. This allows you to personalize the appearance and make your cabinets reflect your style and preferences. Cabinet refacing is a great way to achieve a fresh, modern look for your kitchen cabinets without the hassle and cost of a full remodel.
Some cabinet refacing companies can add new cabinet features to your existing cabinets, like new drawer boxes, trash can pull outs, soft close hinges, etc. And in some cases minor cabinet conversions or replacement/additions can be made.
Pros:
- Quick Installation, done in days, without heavy demo
- Can change your color as well as door style
- Keep your countertops and flooring
- Factory finished doors have better durability
Cons:
- Not able to make significant layout changes
- Best if existing cabinets are in good shape
3. Cabinet Replacement
If your kitchen cabinets are old, damaged, or you simply want to completely change the layout or style of your kitchen, cabinet replacement is the way to go. This option involves removing the existing cabinets and installing brand new ones. Cabinet replacement gives you the opportunity to completely customize your cabinets, from the material and finish to the layout and storage options. You can choose cabinets that perfectly fit your kitchen space and meet your storage needs.
While cabinet replacement is the most expensive and time-consuming option, it offers the greatest flexibility and allows you to create your dream kitchen. It's a good choice if you're planning a full kitchen remodel or if your existing cabinets are beyond repair. With cabinet replacement, you can start with a clean slate and design a kitchen that is both functional and visually appealing.
Pros:
- All new style and cabinet features
- You can make significant layout changes if needed
- All factory finished materials
Cons:
- Expensive: new cabinets, plus countertops, flooring, appliances are included
- Long installation, usually takes weeks, sometime months to complete
4. Compromise: Replace Upper Cabinets and Reface Lower Cabinets
If you're torn between cabinet replacement and cabinet refacing, a compromise option is to replace the upper cabinets and reface the lower cabinets. This approach can give your kitchen a fresh, updated look while saving you some money compared to a full cabinet replacement. By replacing the upper cabinets, you can create a new focal point in your kitchen and make a significant visual impact. Refacing the lower cabinets allows you to update their appearance and maintain consistency with the new upper cabinets.
This compromise option is ideal if you have short cabinets and like the modern look of taller cabinets. It offers a balance between cost-effectiveness and customization, giving you the best of both worlds. With this approach, you can transform your kitchen cabinets and achieve a cohesive, updated look without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Best of both worlds, upper cabinets at eye height are all brand new, lower cabinets look like new
- Quick installation, like cabinet refacing it can be completed in less than 2 weeks
- Allows for the look of a complete remodel with cabinet size changes and features
- Keep countertops and flooring in place
Cons:
- Main cabinet layout can't be significantly changed
- Best if lower cabinets are still in good shape.
What Option Works Best For You
Choosing the best option for updating your kitchen cabinets depends on various factors, including your budget, the condition of your cabinets, your desired style, and the extent of the changes you want to make. If your cabinets are in good condition and you're happy with their layout, cabinet painting or refinishing can be a cost-effective and efficient choice. Cabinet refacing is a good option if you want to give your cabinets a completely new look without the need for a full replacement. On the other hand, if you're planning a full kitchen remodel or your existing cabinets are beyond repair, cabinet replacement offers the most flexibility and customization. The compromise option of replacing the upper cabinets and refacing the lower cabinets is a great choice if you want to achieve a fresh, updated look while saving some money. Consider your specific needs and preferences to determine which option is best for you and your kitchen.
