10 Do's and Don'ts For Cabinet Refacing
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If you want to give your kitchen a fresh new look without the cost and hassle of a complete remodel, cabinet refacing is one of the most cost-effective and hassle-free upgrades you can make. But before you dive in, it’s important to understand what cabinet refacing involves and what you should and shouldn’t do to ensure the best results.
Whether you’re refacing to modernize your space, boost your home’s value, or enhance day-to-day enjoyment, this list of do’s and don’ts of cabinet refacing will help you make confident, informed decisions.
What Is Cabinet Refacing?
Cabinet refacing is the process of updating your kitchen cabinets by replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware while keeping the existing cabinet boxes intact. The visible surfaces of the cabinet frames are also covered with a matching veneer or finish to create a seamless new appearance.
It’s a cost-effective and less invasive alternative to complete cabinet replacement. Because you’re reusing the cabinet framework, refacing offers a faster turnaround and less disruption, making it an ideal solution for kitchens where the layout works but the style feels outdated.
✅ Do: Plan Ahead Before Refacing Cabinets
Before jumping into a cabinet refacing project, it’s essential to take the time to plan carefully. This includes setting a realistic budget that accounts not only for the cost of doors and hardware but also for any upgrades you may want to include, such as soft-close hinges or interior storage solutions. Planning also helps prevent delays and ensures that your chosen materials and contractor are available when you need them. A well-thought-out plan leads to better results and a smoother overall experience. Pro Finish Craftsmen is here and ready to answer any questions you may have about the cabinet refacing process, providing you with a realistic idea of what to expect.
✅ Do: Take Your Current Layout Into Consideration
Cabinet refacing enhances the look of your kitchen but doesn’t allow for changes to the existing cabinet footprint. If your layout functions well, refacing is a perfect solution. However, if you’ve always wished your kitchen had more cabinet space, better organization, or improved workflow, you may be better suited with a complete cabinet replacement project. Understanding the limits of cabinet refacing upfront helps you avoid disappointment and ensures you’re choosing the right upgrade for your goals.
✅ Do: Coordinate Your Cabinets with Your Countertops
Your cabinet doors and countertops should work together visually, rather than competing for attention. Before selecting new door styles or finishes, take a close look at your existing countertops and backsplash. Pay attention to undertones and textures, and bring cabinet samples into your space to see how they look in both natural and artificial light. This step helps ensure your finished kitchen looks cohesive, balanced, and professionally designed.
✅ Do: Upgrade Your Cabinet Hardware
New cabinet doors present the perfect opportunity to upgrade your hardware as well. Outdated knobs or worn handles can detract from the refreshed look, while sleek, modern hardware can elevate the entire space. You’ll also benefit from improved functionality – consider adding soft-close hinges, full-extension drawer slides, or integrated pulls. Hardware is a small investment that makes a big visual and practical difference.
✅ Do: Think About Resale Value
Even if you’re remodeling for your own enjoyment, it’s smart to keep resale value in mind, especially if you plan to sell within a few years. Choosing neutral tones, timeless door styles, and quality finishes can make your kitchen more appealing to a broader range of buyers. Avoiding highly personal or trendy choices helps ensure your investment pays off not only now, but also when it’s time to list your home.
❌ Don’t: Rush the Cabinet Refacing Process
Cabinet refacing has a faster turnaround time than a complete remodel, but that doesn’t mean it should be rushed. Poor planning or hasty decisions can lead to mismatched finishes, poorly aligned doors, or regret about missed upgrades. Take time to review material options, door styles, and hardware details. We are here to work with you and walk you through the process at a thoughtful pace. A little patience now can prevent a lot of frustration later.
❌ Don’t: Focus Solely on Trends
Design trends come and go quickly. While it’s tempting to choose the latest color or style, overly trendy choices may look dated in just a few years. Instead, aim for a timeless look that reflects your taste while complementing the rest of your home. You can always incorporate trends through accessories or wall colors – things that are easy (and affordable) to update later.
❌ Don’t: Choose Low-Quality Materials to Save Money
Cutting corners on quality may save money in the short term, but it often leads to costly repairs or early replacements. The same can be said for opting for a DIY job, as it can often lead to being more expensive and a lower quality finish.
Cabinet doors endure a lot of daily wear, especially in kitchens with children or frequent heavy cooking use. Low-quality finishes may peel, warp, or discolor quickly. Investing in durable, professionally finished doors ensures that your cabinets look beautiful and last for years to come.
❌ Don’t: Overlook the Condition of Your Cabinet Boxes
Refacing only updates the exterior of your cabinets. If your cabinet boxes are damaged, warped, moldy, or structurally unsound, refacing won’t fix the underlying problems. Before starting, Pro Finish Craftsmen can evaluate your cabinet frames to ensure they are strong enough to support new doors and veneers. If not, complete cabinet replacement may be the better long-term option.
❌ Don’t: Opt for DIY – Hire Pro Finish Craftsmen Instead
Cabinet refacing may seem simple, but getting precise alignment, clean finishes, and long-lasting results requires skill and experience. DIY attempts can result in uneven gaps, peeling veneers, or wasted materials. Pro Finish Craftsmen brings the tools, expertise, and attention to detail needed to do the job right. You’ll save time, avoid costly mistakes, and enjoy professional results that last.
Ready to Reface Your Cabinets the Right Way?
Cabinet refacing is one of the best ways to transform your kitchen when done correctly. By following these do’s and don’ts, you’ll get the most value, beauty, and function from your investment.
If you’re ready to refresh your kitchen with professional cabinet refacing, Pro Finish Craftsmen is here to help. We offer high-quality materials, expert advice, and a seamless process from start to finish.