9 Ways To Tell If Your Cabinets Need To Be Replaced Instead of Refaced
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Refacing kitchen cabinets is a smart, cost-effective way to update the look of your kitchen without tearing everything out. But it’s not always the right solution. Sometimes, the cabinets themselves are too far gone, damaged, or outdated to be worth saving. So, how do you know when cabinet replacement is the better move?
Below are 9 signs that your cabinets need to be replaced instead of refaced, along with insight to help you make the most informed decision for your kitchen and your budget.
1. The Cabinet Boxes Are Damaged or Warped
Cabinet refacing works best when your existing cabinet boxes are strong and in good shape. If you’re dealing with water damage, swelling, sagging, cracks, or broken joints, refacing will only cover up those deeper issues and not actually fix them. In these cases, cabinet replacement is the only way to ensure long-term durability and structural integrity.
2. Mold, Mildew, or Water Damage Is Present
Moisture issues under the sink or around appliances can lead to hidden rot, mildew, or mold inside your cabinets. These problems affect appearance and pose health risks and continue to spread over time. Refacing won’t resolve these issues. If there’s any sign of mold or rot, your cabinets must be replaced instead of refaced.
3. The Cabinets Are Poorly Built or Low Quality
If your cabinets are made from low-grade particleboard or stapled construction, refacing won’t be a smart investment. Even with new doors, the weak structure underneath may fail in just a few years. Inexpensive builder-grade cabinets usually aren’t worth saving. In these cases, cabinet replacement provides much better value and longevity.
4. Your Layout Needs to Change
One of the biggest limitations of cabinet refacing is that it only updates what already exists. If you plan to rework your kitchen layout by adding an island, moving appliances, or installing taller cabinets, you’ll need a full cabinet replacement to accommodate those changes. Refacing won’t work if the boxes themselves are being removed or relocated. At that point, complete replacement is likely necessary.
5. The Drawers No Longer Function Properly
Refacing typically includes updating drawer fronts, not replacing drawer boxes or fixing warped slides. If your drawers are off-track, sticking, or damaged beyond repair, it’s usually not worth spending money on cosmetic upgrades. Replacing your cabinets ensures your drawers work like new again, with soft-close options, deeper storage, and modern functionality.
6. Cabinet Interiors Are Stained, Smelly, or Deteriorating
When the insides of your cabinets are stained, waterlogged, musty, or warped, refacing won’t offer much help. That’s because cabinet refacing only addresses the visible exterior, such as your doors, drawers, and outer panels. If the inside of your cabinets is in poor condition, a full cabinet replacement is the cleaner, more practical solution.
7. You Want a Complete Style or Storage Upgrade
Refacing can change the cabinet door style and color, but won’t add new storage features, deeper drawers, or custom solutions. If you dream of better functionality, more space, or modern enhancements like pull-out shelves or built-in organizers, you’ll likely need to start fresh with new cabinets. Plus, cabinet replacement offers full customization to give you a fresh start.
8. Your Cabinets Are Over 30 Years Old
Even well-built cabinets can show their age after decades of use. Materials degrade, construction methods become outdated, and old finishes break down. If your cabinets are over 30 years old, chances are the wood, glue, and joints are starting to fail. In these cases, refacing is a temporary fix, and cabinet replacement offers far better return on investment.
9. There’s No Long-Term Value in Refacing
In some situations, the cost of cabinet refacing begins to approach the price of a brand-new cabinet, especially if your cabinets require significant repairs beforehand. If you’re going to spend thousands to improve cabinets that are already past their prime, it often makes more financial sense to invest in cabinet replacement instead.
Not Sure Which Option Is Right for You?
Deciding between cabinet refacing and cabinet replacement depends on your kitchen’s condition, long-term goals, and budget. Refacing can offer a fast, affordable upgrade if your cabinet boxes are in good shape and you like your layout. But if your cabinets show any of the signs above, replacement may be the smarter long-term investment.
At Pro Finish Craftsmen, we help homeowners in Metro Atlanta evaluate the condition of their cabinets and choose the best solution. Whether you’re considering refacing, repainting, or complete replacement, our team is here to guide you through the process and deliver stunning, functional results.
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and determine whether your cabinets are worth saving or ready for a complete replacement.