What Is Cabinet Refacing Cost?|Costing Break Down With Tips To Reduce The Cost

Refacing a cabinet is the most cost effective way to give a new look to your cabinet. It is much cheaper rather than buying a new one one. But that doesn’t mean it is totally free.

So, how to do the refacing planning? What decides the costing? Read onto find out that.

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing is a renovation that involves replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware without changing the kitchen’s design or layout.

Imagine giving your kitchen a fresh new look without tearing everything apart. That’s what cabinet refacing does. You keep the cabinet boxes right where they are, but you replace the doors drawer fronts, and maybe add some new hardware like drawer pulls. It’s a smart way to update your kitchen without the high labor costs of a full remodel. 

Cabinet refacing is cool because you can choose from a bunch of different styles and materials, like natural wood or plastic laminate. You can even add some fancy touches, like crown molding or cabinet lighting, to really jazz things up. 

The average cost can vary a lot, depending on how big your kitchen is and what materials you go for, but it’s usually way cheaper than getting all new cabinets.

Just like if you want to measure and install cabinets cost would be different. Also, if you’re feeling handy, you could install cabinet knobs yourself to save a bit on labor costs. And if you’ve got wooden cabinets that are looking a bit tired, you can restore wood cabinets to bring out their natural beauty again.

If you’re curious about the costs, “what does kitchen refacing cost” and “How much does cabinet refacing cost” are common questions. The truth is, it’s not as expensive as a full kitchen remodel or getting custom cabinets made, but the price can add up depending on the details you want.

So, cabinet refacing is a fantastic way to give your kitchen a new look without the huge expense and hassle of a complete renovation. Cabinet refacing provides a wide range of solutions to fit your taste and budget, either you’re aiming for a contemporary makeover or just want to freshen your space.

Types Of Cabinet Refacing

Okay, then, let’s get down to the business of giving your kitchen an update without gutting it. Consider it as a complete makeover for your kitchen cabinets. But How much does cabinet refacing cost vary depending on the types. There are many types of cabinet refacing. Such as:

1. Veneering: Veneering is the process of overlaying a surface with a thin layer of finer wood for decoration or as an outer finish. Imagine peeling off the old, tired look of your cabinets and wrapping them in a fresh, new veneer. This process can totally change the vibe without the high labor costs.

2.  Laminate: A popular choice for laminate kitchen cabinet refacing because it’s cost-effective and can give the look of more expensive materials like wood or stone. It’s tough, durable, and comes in a ton of colors and styles. And the best part? It’s super cost-effective. You get that sleek look without draining your wallet.

3. Wood: Wood refacing is like the classic, timeless choice. It’s all about bringing the warmth and beauty of natural wood into your kitchen. A common material for cabinet refacing because it has a warm, rustic hue that stands out against the interior of a modern kitchen. You can choose from many style options, such as mahogany, cherry, oak, and maple.

4. RTF: RTF (Rigid Thermofoil) is a type of vinyl laminate that’s similar to particle board but denser, smoother, and more durable. It can simulate wood grain with convincing accuracy, which makes it a popular choice for household doors and cabinets. And if you are looking for ways to fix a racked cabinet then this is your catch.

What Is Cabinet Refacing Cost?

Repurposing your current cabinet boxes and giving them a fresh coat of paint is a more economical alternative to removing and replacing your cabinets. This method may revitalize your kitchen without the extensive work and expense of a complete renovation.

Based on recent research, the cost of cabinet refacing varies widely depending on several factors such as materials, labor, and the size of your kitchen. A table summarizing the expenses of several cabinet refacing options is provided here:

The average cost to reface a kitchen can swing widely based on your kitchen size, the materials you choose, and labor costs. For the average cost to reface 10×10 kitchen, you might be looking at a range that captures everything from simple updates to high-end finishes.

In places like cabinet refacing Alexandria VA, the vibe and layout of your kitchen can play a big role in deciding the best approach. The key is to blend the practical needs with those little touches that make it feel like home.

Why Is Cabinet Refacing So Expensive?

Cabinet refacing might seem like a huge financial burden, doesn’t it? So that it’s very apparent why this is, let’s make it really easy.

1. Material Costs

When you decide to give your kitchen cabinets a facelift, the stuff they use isn’t cheap. Think about the wood veneers or plastic laminate that go on your cabinet doors. These materials make everything look brand new and shiny but, yep, they add up in cost. 

Also, if you want your kitchen to have that special touch with things like crown molding or fancy cabinet lighting, that’s gonna bump up the price even more.

2. Hardware Replacement

Drawer pulls and hinges are examples of such little details. They may not seem like much, but the expense of replacing them adds up quickly. Improving functionality is equally as important as improving aesthetics. And you’ll understand the increase in cost if you’re aiming for long-lasting, high-quality items.

3. Labor Costs

Let’s not forget the folks who actually do the work. The labor costs for a cabinet refacing project can be a big chunk of the bill. These pros measure, cut, and install everything to make your kitchen look awesome. It takes skill and time, especially if your kitchen layout is a bit like a puzzle.

4. Customization And Complexity

Got a unique kitchen size or dreaming of custom cabinets? The more you steer away from the standard, the more you’ll pay. Complexity like fitting cabinet boxes into an odd kitchen layout or adding cabinet accessories ups the game—and the cost. It’s all about making your space yours, but yep, it comes at a price.

5. Additional Improvements

Thinking of adding a bit more to your kitchen remodel? Maybe you want to install an electrical outlet in a medicine cabinet or you need to repair a lazy Susan corner cabinet that won’t turn. Oh, and can’t forget about those moments when you have to repair chipped gloss kitchen cabinets. Each extra job means more time, more materials, and yep, more money.

Things That Influence The Cost Of Refacing Cabinet

Now that I’ve covered the basics, let’s look at the factors that affect the price of refacing your cabinets. Regarding cabinet refacing, it is my specialty. Instead of purchasing new cabinets, I want to give the existing ones a facelift. Also, similar to clothing, the price might vary depending on a number of factors. 

Materials

How much your cabinets end up cost depends on the materials we use to make them look great. Imagine yourself faced with a choice between two bars of chocolate and gold. It will be more expensive than merely painting them if we choose expensive plastic laminate or veneers made of wood. The typical cost of the cabinet refacing project may be significantly affected by the choice of material, as each option comes with its own price tag. 

Size

Additionally, your kitchen’s size is a major consideration. A larger canvas calls for more paint, just as when you’re painting an image. A larger kitchen with more cabinet boxes will need more materials and labor, resulting in increased expenses. Whether we’re referring to the kitchen’s total square footage or its linear foot measurement, greater room always entails a larger expenditure.

Number Of Cabinets

How many cabinets you’ve got is just as important. More cabinets mean more work for things like cabinet doors, drawer pulls, and maybe even adding some fancy cabinet lighting. So, the more cabinets you want to spruce up, the more it’s going to cost.

Customization Choices

Want something special, like custom cabinets or fancy crown molding? That’s going to cost extra. It’s like ordering a pizza and adding all your favorite toppings; the more you add, the higher the bill. Custom work like unique finishes or special cabinet accessories can increase the cabinet makeover cost, making your kitchen a standout but also adding to the expense. 

Employee Wages

Also, the workers should be compensated for their efforts. A number of factors, such as the complexity of your cabinet refacing job and your location, might affect the labor expenses. The more assistance you need, the more the fee will be, just like hiring a tutor. Intricate designs or difficult installations requiring skilled manpower will increase the cost.

Installation Challenges

Every kitchen is unique, and some have quirks that make installing things like crown molding or cabinet lighting a bit trickier. Maybe your kitchen layout has some tight spots, or you’re looking to install recessed medicine cabinet without studs, which can add to the complexity and cost. It’s like doing a puzzle; the more complicated it is, the longer it takes to solve. 

And about keeping things looking fresh and new, sometimes you might want to restore cabinet finishes or go for a full cabinet refinishing to bring back that shine without a complete overhaul. These options can be a cost-effective way to update your current cabinets without the higher price tag of a total cabinet replacement.

And when budgeting, consider the cabinet refacing cost per door to get a clearer idea of the overall expense.

How Does Calculator Cabinet Refacing Cost?

Now, if you’re crunching numbers, tools like a kitchen cabinet refacing cost calculator These tools help you understand the investment needed for this exciting project. Wondering What is cabinet refacing cost calculator is? It’s a tool that helps you figure out the potential cost based on your kitchen’s specifics—super useful for planning your budget. But if you are still confused, then I’ll clear it out for you.

On average, cabinet refacing projects can range from $4,000 to $10,000 for a standard-sized kitchen, but this is just a rough estimate. High-end projects or those involving premium materials and customizations can exceed this range.

• Size of Your Kitchen and Number of Cabinets: Think about your kitchen. Is it big? Is it small? How many cabinets you’ve got matters a lot. Bigger kitchens with more cabinets mean more material, and that’s gonna cost more. It’s like buying more clothes for more people; you need to spend more money.
• Material Choices: Now, what your cabinets will wear matters too. You can choose from plastic laminate to natural wood. Natural wood looks super fancy but will make your wallet lighter. Plastic laminate is a budget-friendly option that still looks good.
• Hardware Replacement: I’m talking about the knobs and drawer pulls. Changing these is like adding cool accessories. It can make a big difference but also adds to the cost. It’s like when you get a new outfit and then realize you need new shoes to match.
• Additional Customizations: Want to add some extra flair? Crown molding or cabinet lighting can make your kitchen look like it’s straight out of a magazine. But remember, all these extras add up.
• Costs of Work: Don’t forget about the people doing all the work. Their skills and time cost money. The more complex your project, the more you’ll need to pay them. An example would be when someone assists you with a large assignment for school; in such cases, it is appropriate to reward them with something lovely.

Tips And Tricks To Reduce The Cost

Alright, let’s get down to brass tacks and figure out how you can save costs in the room. Modifying things without going into debt is one example. 

1. Budget: To begin, it is essential to establish a budget. Basically, it’s a strategy for your money. Before you go crazy spending money on crown molding and cabinet boxes, you need to set a budget. It’s all about balance and keeping an eye on that average cost.

2. Reduce Supply Expenses: Now, about cutting down on what you’re buying. Look into less pricey options for cabinet lighting or doors. Maybe instead of going all out with custom cabinets, consider what changes you can make that give you a big impact for less dough.

3. Optimize Energy Usage: Energy costs sometimes come as a surprise, don’t you think? Before you install or replace any kitchen cabinets, consider how you might improve the kitchen’s layout to reduce energy consumption and your monthly energy costs. You may find that you don’t need to leave the lights on constantly once you install cabinet lighting judiciously in some areas.

4. Cut Production Costs: When I talk about making stuff, like your kitchen cabinet refacing project, labor costs can get high. But, if you plan smart, you can keep things efficient. Maybe you don’t need to replace everything. Sometimes, a little update here and there, like new drawer pulls or a bit of crown molding, can make a big difference without a big bill.

5. Modernize Your Marketing Efforts: The next time you’re going to show off your makeover, try to be creative. Just like your present cabinets, make the most of what you have by highlighting its greatest features. Sometimes, all it takes to get people talking is a little creativity and not a lot of money for the huge advertising.

6. Negotiate with Suppliers: In fact, you may save money by communicating with suppliers. Consult with them before purchasing any materials, such as plastic laminate or wood veneers. When you purchase in quantity or have many projects in mind, you may be able to negotiate a lower price. Reducing those expenses is all about that cordial conversation.

7. Outsourcing: Sometimes, doing everything yourself isn’t the cheapest route. Hiring someone for specific tasks, especially things like installing cabinet accessories or doing the cabinet refacing cost calculations, might save you more in the long run. It’s finding the right help at the right price.

What Is The Cheapest Way To Reface Kitchen Cabinets?

Refinishing cabinets is the cheapest way to update them. Refinishing involves painting, glazing, or restaining cabinets without fixing dents or scratches.

A few more ideas for modernizing your kitchen cabinets:

• Paint or stain: A cost-effective and easy way to update cabinets. You can use a color or stain that complements your kitchen’s style.
• Strip and sand: Costs between $1–$8 per square foot.
• Laminate: The cheapest option for resurfacing cabinets, costing around $90–$110 per linear foot.
• Install a veneer: Install a new wood or laminate veneer over existing cabinet and drawer fronts.
• DIY cabinet refacing: Use real wood veneer to achieve a new look without spending a lot of money.

You can also try these inexpensive ways to make your cabinets look better:

• Install brushed-brass accents
• Brighten cabinet backs
• Add temporary wallpaper
• Install under-cabinet lighting

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Last Words

To be fair, you are probably wondering “what is cabinet refacing cost?” I understand. Allow me to simplify things for you. They serve as the ensemble for your kitchen. You may not want to purchase a new set every time they only need a little updating. Refacing is a solution for it.

Typically, it’s just about updating the outside, like the doors, and maybe adding some stylish handles or lights. What is the cost? Yes, it does alter. The amount of effort involved, the size of your kitchen, and the materials you choose (such as elegant wood or basic laminate) are all factors to consider. A new set of cabinets may be rather expensive, so keep that in mind. 

Therefore, refacing your cabinets is a brilliant and inexpensive way to update the appearance of your kitchen.