Kitchen Cabinets: Reface or Replace?

Kitchen cabinets that are starting to show their age can benefit from a reface or a full replacement. How do you know which one’s right for you? Handyman Connection® of Mason discusses the differences between refacing and replacing cabinets.

Reface Vs. Replace

The only major consideration when trying to decide between kitchen cabinet refacing or replacement is the condition of the cabinet frames or boxes. You will need new kitchen cabinets if the cabinet frames have structural issues, such as moisture-damaged wood panels, warped frames, or loose fasteners. If your cabinets are in this condition, refinishing may be, at best, a short-term solution.

However, if the cabinet boxes are in perfectly good shape, consider having your cabinets refaced. The process involves removing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware, leaving only the frames. Custom front pieces, made of the material of your choice, are cut to size, finished or painted, then installed. The hinges and handles can also be replaced. If you have skills and tools in woodworking, refacing the cabinet is a great DIY project. It should be noted that there is a process called resurfacing, which adds a layer of veneer to existing cabinet doors.

Unique Benefits

Kitchen cabinet replacement is the costlier option, and is primarily chosen if the cabinet has structural issues. It may also be considered if the original cabinet had faulty design, or was erroneously installed in the first place. Cabinet replacement can also be considered if you want a simpler design, or if you need kitchen cabinets with better capacity or are more in line with your kitchen habits.

Cabinet refacing has its own unique benefits. In addition to being the less costly option, it is also easier to do. In fact, you don’t even have to remove the cabinet contents when the cabinets are being refaced. On the other hand, if you have owned your home for quite some time, then you already have your habits in the kitchen, which you probably have become comfortable with. Refacing lets you keep the exact same cabinet structure, which means you don’t have to change any of these habits. Also, refacing lets you address issues such as misaligned doors and faulty hardware. If you need a more professional touch in refacing your kitchen cabinets, hire a skilled handyman to do the job.

Handyman Connection of Mason is your number one provider of handyman services for various installation and repair jobs. Give us a call at (513) 733-3777 or fill out our contact form.