10 Common Myths About Cabinet Refacing Debunked

Cabinet refacing is an increasingly popular option for homeowners looking to update their kitchen or bathroom without the time and expense of a complete renovation. However, many common myths about cabinet refacing leave people skeptical about whether it’s a good choice. This article aims to debunk these misconceptions and show why cabinet refacing is a cost-effective, long-lasting, and stylish option for transforming your space.

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts while refinishing the exterior of your existing cabinet boxes with a matching veneer, laminate, or paint. This approach keeps the underlying structure of your cabinets intact, saving time and money compared to a complete replacement. New hardware, like handles or hinges, can also be added to complete the transformation.

Unlike cabinet replacement, which requires tearing out the entire cabinet system and starting from scratch, refacing is a faster, less invasive process. While replacement may be necessary for severely damaged or poorly constructed cabinets, refacing is ideal for sturdy cabinets that only need a cosmetic upgrade.

10 Common Myths About Cabinet Refacing Debunked

Despite the many benefits of cabinet refacing, misconceptions about this process persist. Some worry about durability, design limitations, or the value it adds to their homes. These common myths often discourage homeowners from considering this affordable and efficient option. However, refacing offers a long-lasting, customizable, and cost-effective way to update your kitchen or bathroom. Let’s explore and debunk the most popular myths to set the record straight.

1. Cabinet Refacing Is Just as Expensive as Replacing Cabinets

A common misconception is that cabinet refacing costs the same as a complete replacement, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Refacing generally costs 30-50% less than replacing your cabinets, making it a budget-friendly alternative. By reusing the existing cabinet boxes, you save significantly on labor and materials while achieving a fresh, modern look. For homeowners who want the appearance of a complete remodel without the hefty price tag, refacing is the perfect middle ground.

2. Cabinet Refacing Is a Temporary Fix and Doesn’t Last

Some believe refacing is a short-term solution that won’t hold up over time. However, when done professionally with high-quality materials, refaced cabinets can last just as long as brand-new cabinets—often 15 to 20 years or more. Durable veneers, laminates, and finishes are designed to withstand daily wear and tear, ensuring your cabinets look great for years.

3. Cabinet Refacing Limits Your Design Options or Prevents Layout Changes

Another myth is that refacing offers limited design flexibility. In actuality, it provides a wealth of customization options. From shaker-style doors to sleek, modern finishes, refacing allows you to completely transform your cabinets’ look. While refacing doesn’t involve changing the structural layout of your cabinets, functional upgrades—like soft-close hinges or additional storage solutions—can often be incorporated during the process.

4. Refaced Cabinets Look Cheap or Outdated

Many homeowners worry that refaced cabinets won’t look as high-end as new ones. Some even wonder if cabinet refacing is only suitable for older homes. In truth, professional refacing can achieve a sleek, updated appearance indistinguishable from complete cabinet replacement. With modern materials and finishes, refacing offers a polished, high-quality look that enhances your kitchen or bathroom’s overall aesthetic.

5. DIY Cabinet Refacing Is Cheaper

It’s easy to assume that taking a DIY approach to cabinet refacing will save money, but this often leads to costly mistakes. Achieving a smooth, professional finish requires expertise and specialized tools that most homeowners don’t have. Poorly executed DIY refacing can result in peeling veneers, misaligned doors, or uneven finishes, ultimately costing more to fix than hiring a professional from the start.

6. Total Cabinet Replacement Is the Better Home Improvement Choice

While replacement is necessary for cabinets with structural damage, refacing is often the smarter choice for functional cabinets that need an aesthetic upgrade. Refacing allows you to achieve the same visual impact as a replacement but at a fraction of the cost and with far less disruption. It’s a practical option for most homeowners looking to update their space without a complete overhaul.

7. Cabinet Refacing Doesn’t Increase Home Value

Some believe refaced cabinets don’t add resale value, but the opposite is true. A modern, updated kitchen or bathroom is a major selling point for buyers, and refacing can dramatically enhance your home’s appeal. By improving the look and functionality of your space, refacing often contributes to a higher resale price.

8. Refacing Cabinets Takes as Long as Replacing Them

Cabinet replacement can take weeks, involving demolition, construction, and installation, but refacing is far quicker. Most refacing projects are completed in just a few days, making it an excellent choice for homeowners who want minimal disruption to their daily routines.

9. You Can’t Use Your Kitchen While Refacing Cabinets

Unlike complete cabinet replacement, which renders your kitchen unusable during construction, refacing is minimally invasive. You can continue using your kitchen throughout the process, as only the exterior surfaces are being worked on.

10. Refacing Is Only for Kitchens, Not Other Areas of the Home

While kitchens are the most common place for refacing, it can also be done in bathrooms, laundry rooms, or any space with cabinetry. Refacing is a versatile solution that works in various areas of the home, providing a cohesive, updated look throughout.

Schedule Your Complimentary Consultation Today

Cabinet refacing is a practical, cost-effective, and stylish way to update your kitchen or bathroom. By debunking these common myths about cabinet refacing, we hope you feel more confident about making an informed decision. If you’re ready to transform your space, contact Pro Finish Craftsmen today for a complimentary consultation. Our team of experts will help you create the cabinet look you’ve always wanted without the hassle of a complete replacement!