For many homeowners, kitchen cabinet resurfacing (otherwise known as cabinet refacing or refacing kitchen cabinets) is a wise and affordable alternative to full cabinet replacement or a full kitchen remodel. This process covers the visible surfaces of your existing cabinet boxes, cabinet frames and existing cabinet doors with new veneer, natural wood, laminate or replacement doors – all while retaining the strong interior structure. It’s a great idea if your current cabinets are in good shape but look outdated. It gives your space a fresh look that doesn’t require too much disruption. Unlike a full remodel, kitchen cabinet refacing uses all the cabinets, saves the material from the landfill, and is 30-50% less expensive than full replacement.
Whether you’re doing DIY cabinet refacing or the pros (who deal with labor costs and special tools”), it’s ideal for busy households. Many satisfied customers rave about the modern transformation, without the gutting of the kitchen layout. Ready for kitchen cabinet refacing ideas? Let’s dive in!

Evaluate Your Current Cabinets for Kitchen Cabinet Resurfacing or Full Remodel
Do you really need kitchen cabinet resurfacing? Before refacing cabinets check to see if your current cabinets qualify. Solid cabinet frames, smooth plywood interiors, and useful hardware (like drawer tracks) and they’re just ripe to resurface. Skip it if there’s structural damage – and go for cabinet replacement instead. This step saves money in the long run because, of course, existing cabinet boxes in good condition beat buying brand new ones.
Pro tip: Think through your door style, crown molding and overall kitchen layout. If you are looking at a different layout or more cabinets, then full replacement may be a better option.
DIY Cabinet Refacing
Prep for a Fresh Look
Clear all the cabinets: Remove existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, and contents. Store items safely – maybe in another room or for a whole house project including bathroom cabinetry.
- Clean existing finish using a degreaser.
- Sand lightly with medium-grit paper.
- Wipe with a tack cloth.
- Measure for new veneer or panels on open ends.
- Cut out plywood to fit.
- Glue, nail and fill in gaps for base to be seamless.
- Apply New Veneer or Laminate
- Wood veneer or laminate is important to refacing kitchen cabinets.
- Cut strips 1/2-inch wider and 2 inches longer than stiles/rails, and grain lengthwise.
- Start with vertical stiles: Peel backing slowly.
- Press hard by using a block so there are no bubbles.
- Lay onto rails, cutting excess with utility knife.
Choose natural wood for coziness or laminate for easy maintenance. This cost effective way hides any imperfections of cabinetry which gives a new kitchen vibe without demo.
Bulthaup Kitchen, Boffi Kitchen, Cadore Kitchen, and Eggersman Kitchen are some of the leading brands known for their high-quality kitchen designs and craftsmanship, offering a range of options for your kitchen renovation needs.
Revamp Cabinet Doors, Drawers, and Hardware into Good Shape
Sand and stain out existing cabinet doors or install new doors and replacement doors to match your door style. Add new drawer fronts for custom touch. For DIY no special tools needed apart from basic ones; However, pros ensure precision.
Seal and Protect
Brush on water based polyurethane in thin coats, following the grain. Sand lightly between 2-3 layers. This is to protect your fresh look for years.
Reassemble and Accessorize
Hang doors with hinges (use a jig for even spacing), attach drawer pulls and replace drawers. Update crown molding for polish. Test Everything – your modern kitchen is ready!
The Benefits of New Kitchen Cabinet Refacing vs. Complete Cabinet Replacement
– Budget-friendly: Half price of full cabinet replacement or full remodel – ideal for budget tightness
– Minimal disruption: Completed in days rather than weeks – Good if you are being overrun by multiple contractors.
– Eco-smart: Is made from existing cabinet boxes so less waste.
– Versatile: Works for space constrains, different layout tweaks or expanding to more cabinets.
Hire experts for a free consultation. Many are available for bathroom services as well. Satisfied customers love the results – no need for a brand new overhaul.
Conclusion
Finally, a new and highly preferred kitchen cabinet resurfacing is the answer to home owners that demand a clean and contemporary upgrade, but not to the cost and mess of a complete remodel. It is an inexpensive process that makes your current cabinets look fresh and impressive without causing a lot of disturbance to the normal life of a person.
Ready to fix your kitchen? Book a free consultation now and become one of many happy clients that have made upgrades without investing heavily.
FrequentlyAsked questions (FAQs)
What is the difference between cabinet refacing and full cabinet replacement?
Cabinet refacing is used to update visible surfaces, existing cabinet doors, and finishes on existing cabinet boxes while full cabinet replacement is to install totally new ones. Refacing saves 50%+ in terms of costs with less messes.
Is DIY cabinet refacing worth it or should I hire professionals?
DIY cabinet refacing is for the handy folks with time for a project, with basic tools. Pros do labor costs, special tools, and precision in refacing kitchen cabinets without any problems with structural damages.
How much does refacing of kitchen cabinets cost?
Expect anywhere from $3,000 – $7,000 for a standard kitchen (materials + labor costs). It’s a way lesser than $10,000+ for full replacement. It’s the most cost-effective way of a fresh look on a budget.
Can I resurface cabinets in good shape that have structural problems?
No—inspect for damage first. If there are cabinet frames and the hardware is working then you are good to go, otherwise opt for full remodel.
What quality materials should be used for kitchen cabinet resurfacing?
Wood veneer / natural wood for ultimate feel;
laminate for durability
Pair up with new doors and crown molding for modern appeal.
How long does refacing of kitchen cabinets take with minimal disruption?
DIY: 3-5 days. Pros: 2-4 days, ideal for the busy home with no full kitchen remodel.
Does kitchen cabinet refacing work for bathroom or whole house work?
Yes! The process uses adapts to bathroom cabinetry or whole house updates and would maintain your layout and space.
How do I get a free consultation on cabinet refacing?
Contact us at All One Kitchen anytime. We offer free consultations to help evaluate your current cabinets and recommend new veneer or door style options.





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