How to Reface Your Kitchen Cabinets

If your cabinets are starting to show their age or are just outdated in general, replacing all your cabinets may not always be the best option. Refacing cabinets is a great option for getting a brand new look without a full cabinet demo or kitchen remodel. By replacing or refinishing only the “face” of the cabinets—meaning the doors, drawer fronts, and any part of the cabinet facing outward—you’ll get cabinets that look brand new for a fraction of the budget and effort.

Ready to elevate your kitchen design and start refacing cabinet doors? We’re here to teach you tips and tricks for a successful cabinet door refacing project. Here’s everything you need to know.

What is Cabinet Door Refacing?

Refacing cabinet doors is the process of simply replacing the doors of the cabinets rather than the entire cabinets. This cost-effective alternative can help you achieve a fully upgraded look for a fraction of the cost. It's also a DIY-friendly project that won't take too much time.

When replacing your cabinet doors, it's also wise to replace the drawer fronts. This will ensure they complement one another. You'll also want to consider replacing the hardware and the hinges if worn out.

Benefits of Cabinet Refacing

There are many benefits to refacing kitchen cabinets rather than replacing your cabinets entirely. Some of the benefits you can look forward to with kitchen cabinet refacing:

• Cost-effectiveness: Refacing kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to improve the look of your kitchen. Switching out your cabinet doors can help you enhance your kitchen aesthetic for a fraction of the cost.
• Environmental impact: Refacing the cabinet doors is an eco-friendly alternative to completely replacing your cabinets. This is a great way to reduce your ecological footprint and do better for the planet.
• Time Efficiency: Refacing cabinet doors is less time-consuming than completely replacing the cabinets in your kitchen. Depending on whether you order finished or unfinished cabinet doors, homeowners can typically complete a refacing project in just a few days.
• Variety of Styles and Finishes: There are many ways to enhance the look of old cabinets. You can apply a stain, paint, or finish to the cabinet doors. You can also switch out the style and go for something more modern.

Step-by-Step Guide to Refacing Kitchen Cabinets

Once you decide to start your kitchen cabinet refacing project, the process is relatively quick and straightforward. Here's how you can expect the project to go:

1. Measure The Cabinet Door Openings

First, measure the openings of your cabinets. You'll need the exact width and height of the opening before placing an order for custom-made replacements. For more information on measuring, explore our How to Measure Cabinet Doors: The Full Guide.

2. Prepare The Replacement Cabinet Doors

If you invest in unfinished cabinet doors, you may need to prepare them for painting or staining. You must take the time to sand and clean the surfaces completely. This will ensure that any paint, stain, or coating you apply fully absorbs into the wood.

3. Reface The Cabinets

Plan on adding a fresh coat of paint? Want to apply a wood veneer or a laminate over the solid wood? No matter how you plan on refacing your cabinet doors, you’ll want to take your time during this part of the project. Here are some videos and guides you can use to help you reface cabinets:

• How To Paint Cabinet Doors
• DIY: Staining Your Own Unfinished Cabinet Doors
• Unfinished vs. Finished Cabinet Doors: Which is Best for You?

Don't forget to also follow our YouTube Channel for more refacing cabinet door guides and videos.

4. Replace The Hinges

If you plan to reuse your current hinges, measure your current doors, and then order custom-built replacements in the same size. If you plan to purchase new hinges from CabinetDoors.com, you will need to measure your cabinets for a 1/2 overlay (add 1" to the width and height of the opening).

If your old cabinet doors banged shut or your drawers were hard to open and close, your refacing cabinet doors project is the perfect time to install better hardware. New drawer runners can ensure your drawers close smoothly, and soft-close Blum hinges can help your cabinet doors close softly and easily. These kinds of upgrades are relatively inexpensive, but they help your doors and drawers last longer and make using your cabinets and working in your kitchen a lot more pleasant.

5. Add New Hardware

Next, consider replacing the hardware on your cabinet doors. Simply switching from a door knob to a pull or handle will help you achieve a more modern look. While playing with eccentric door knob looks is great for adding a more playful touch to your space.

6. Install Your Refaced Cabinets

Once the paint has dried or the stain has been added, it's time to reinstall your refaced cabinet doors. This process is relatively straightforward and can be completed without professional help. For more information, read our guide on DIY Cabinet Installation.

DIY Refacing Cabinet Door Tips

If you are ready to reface cabinet doors and DIY this project, then it’s time to start exploring your cabinet refacing options. Let’s look at things you should consider as you start your DIY cabinet refacing project.

Here are a few refacing cabinet door tips to help guide you through your next DIY project:

• Refacing won’t change the layout: It’s important to note that If you dislike your kitchen layout and want to gut your kitchen and start from scratch, DIY kitchen refacing probably won’t solve the problems you have with your kitchen.
• Consider a wood veneer: Applying wood veneer can create a high-end look, but it requires attention to detail and can be harder and more expensive than just painting the cabinets, which is fairly easy. To retain a wood finish, consider whether you feel confident applying veneer.
• Look for signs of wear and tear: The face of your cabinets receives the most use and abuse, so it tends to wear out faster than the inside. Only you can decide when the face of your cabinets looks worn out beyond what you can stand, but as soon as you do, start making plans for cabinet refacing options.
• Apply a fresh coat of paint: Sometimes just repainting can make a difference and is a low-cost way to reface and update your kitchen.
• Apply a conversion varnish: Consider having your refaced cabinet doors professionally finished in durable Sherwin-Williams conversion varnish. This type of paint provides a long-lasting finish that can withstand everyday use in high humidity.

Need Replacement Cabinet Doors? Order Online Today.

With thoughtful planning and careful work throughout the process, you can create a brand-new look in your space without the hassle or cost of a full remodel. Even better, completing the process yourself will not only save you money but also ensure that you get the best materials for the best results.

Ultimately, learning how to reface cabinets as well as possible is about finding the right replacement cabinet doors. You’ll want high-quality products in the right size and the perfect style. Cabinetdoors.com is here to help you get exactly what you want in cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Browse our large inventory of cabinet doors and drawer fronts today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do refaced cabinet doors last?

You can expect your refaced cabinet doors to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years, depending on where you buy your replacements and the wood species you choose.

Is resurfacing the same as refacing?

Yes, these two words are interchangeable.

Can you reface old cabinets?

Yes. Before placing your order for replacement cabinet doors, you'll want to ensure the cabinets are in good condition. Look for signs of warping, water damage, and general wear and tear.

How much does it cost to reface cabinets?

The cost will vary depending on the wood species, kitchen size, and style you choose for your refacing cabinet door project. You’ll also want to consider the cost of paint, conversion varnish, or wood veneer. If you have any questions about pricing, give us a call at 1-800-342-1010