How Much Does Cabinet Refacing Cost?

What Is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing is the process of revamping the cabinets you already have. During refacing, a pro will apply new veneers to your cabinet boxes with new doors and drawers to match the revamped exteriors. A pro will also typically add new cabinet hinges and hardware during this process, so your cabinets will look even more refreshed. The entire process typically takes a few days when done by a professional.

You can choose from many styles and finish options but cannot usually change the layout or structure of the existing cupboards with refacing. You should also only attempt to reface existing cabinets if the box is in good enough shape to handle the weight of new hardware and doors. Again, a pro can help you evaluate if your current cabinets are ideal for refacing. 

While refacing, you might also choose to add other improvements to your cabinets. For example, it is simple to add a lazy Susan in a corner or roll-out shelving for heavy pots. These simple upgrades allow for more efficient use of existing space.

Cabinet Refacing Costs per Linear Foot

Cabinet refacing costs range anywhere from $90 to $455 per linear foot depending mainly on the quality of materials used. Refacing is usually less expensive than replacement but more expensive than refinishing.

*Your exact price will depend on the size of your kitchen, the materials involved, and your location.

To understand options specific for your project and get an accurate estimate, you'll need an in-home consultation from a professional.

Refacing Costs for Kitchen & Bathroom Cabinets vs. Offices & Dens

There are no significant cost differences between kitchens and bathrooms and offices and dens. Regardless of location, the type of veneer you choose to use and the number of cabinets you have will dictate the overall price.

Cabinet Refacing Cost Factors

The costs on this page are just a general estimate, but what you’ll pay for your unique cabinet refacing project will depend on a few factors:

• Material type: Certain types of material can drive up the cost of your cabinet refacing project, with plastic laminate being on the low end and solid wood and plywood tending to be the most costly.

• Size of your cabinets: The bigger your cabinets are, the higher the cost will typically be. Use the square foot estimate above to get a ballpark range but then talk to your pro to get a more specific number.

• Ease of access: If your pro is working with a small kitchen or against tight corners, for example, the job may take longer and/or cost more.

• Adding new hardware: Most cabinet refacing jobs involve adding new hardware. However, if yours is in good enough shape, you can keep what you have now and cut costs.

• New additions: If you’re upgrading your cabinet to include storage separation or new shelving, expect to factor these into the cost.

Refacing & Replacing Cabinet Doors Cost

Total project costs typically range from $4,300 to $10,000. A single door runs $30 to $100 depending on the type with labor adding another $100 to $250.

Total costs will vary by project based on several factors, including the materials used to cover the fronts and sides of your cabinet boxes. To reduce your cabinet refacing cost, consider using your existing doors with wood veneer or laminate over solid wood.

Alongside budget, consider the look you’re going for and any features you want to add. From there choose your materials accordingly.

Wood Veneers

Wood veneers cost $2,500 to $6,000. They are sheets and strips of thin wood material applied to exposed surfaces. They come in oak, maple, cherry, birch, walnut, and other wood tones. The cost is 10% to 25% higher than laminates but once sealed, they can last years with minimal care.

Plastic Laminate

Plastic laminates cost $1,000 to $4,000 and come in a wide variety of solid colors, and wood-grain looks. There are two types of laminate. Both are sturdy and have their advantages.

• Low-pressure laminate, also called melamine, has the advantage of being lower in price but can chip.

• High-pressure, like Formica, is more water-resistant than melamine.

Rigid Thermofoil (RTF)

Rigid Thermofoil (RTF), a particular type of economical laminate, runs from $1,000 to $3,000. RTF is a flexible vinyl molded over medium density fiberboard. It can be shaped and molded over a range of door styles. It offers the clean look of painted cupboards without brush strokes and can give you the warm look of wood grain without the cost.

Solid and Plywood Doors

Replacing your doors and drawers with solid wood costs $5,000 to $10,000. Wood is paired to match the wood veneers on your boxes. For many homeowners, solid wood is a sound investment as once installed, you can refinish and repair surface damage, as needed, over time.

Other Costs of Changing Cabinet Doors

Though basic hardware replacements are often included with project costs, upgrades can end up costing you anywhere from $500 to $4,000. When choosing hardware, consider the functionality as well as the appearance. The money you save by refacing rather than replacing can open your budget for more quality and comfort upgrades for both use and style.

Organizers, crown molding, stainless steel pulls and decorative trim all add to the upgraded look and usability of your new kitchen.

How Long Does Cabinet Door Refacing Take?

While this depends on the company doing the refacing and on the size of your space, most refacing can be done in two to four days. Replacement takes more time and labor meaning more cost and more time without your kitchen.

Replace vs. Reface vs. Refinish Kitchen Cabinets and Doors

• Replacing or installing new cabinets costs $2,000 to $20,000 or more. Excellent choice when boxes are highly damaged or changing the layout. It often takes longer than either refinishing or refacing. Custom types can run up to $24,000 or more.

• Refacing runs $4,300 to $10,000. About 30% to 50% less expensive than replacing. Allows a completely new style, color, and finish. It includes replacement doors and drawer faces, hardware and supplies, and the labor cost. The total will vary depending on the materials used, the sizes of the project, and any additional options you may want to include.

• Refinishing cabinets costs $1,800 to $4,100. Lowest-cost alternative that refreshes them without changing the style. Color changes are possible. Takes the least amount of time to complete.

To reface your cabinets, hire a professional refacing service to measure and inspect your kitchen or bathroom accurately. They can also provide a cost estimate for your specific project. They’ll offer advice on installation, optional upgrades, and hardware choices.

DIY Cabinet Redooring vs. Hiring a Pro

When it comes to cabinets, refacing is possibly the toughest DIY project to tackle. It takes extreme detail, patience, and experience with a wide range of specialized and expensive tools. Unless you have a week to dedicate to this project and around $2,000 or more in equipment, it’s a better idea to hire a local cabinet refacing professional.

Supplies, Materials, & Tools for a DIY Upgrade

It’s a good idea to consider both cost and time commitment when deciding whether to complete the refinishing project on your own. Depending on the size of the kitchen, your experience level, and the number of people helping, a job like this could take a week or longer.

If you’re set on doing this yourself, you'll need to line up your supplies and equipment. Here are some of the tools you may need:

Benefits of Hiring a Cabinet Resurfacing Pro

Hiring a professional for refacing takes the headache and backache out of the task. When you estimate the total cost of doing it yourself, you might find that hiring a pro is well worth it.

When hiring a pro, keep in mind the following:

• Your material and style preferences.

• The time period in which the job should be completed.

• The customer reviews for the contractor/professional you've chosen.

• Your budget.

Communicate your preferences, time frame, and budget and let the contractor you choose upgrade your space, giving you the look you want at a price you can afford.

FAQs

Is it worth it to reface kitchen cabinets?

It is worth it to reface kitchen cabinets if you’re trying to sell a home in a competitive market or want a better-looking kitchen. You’ll get anywhere from 65% to 75% of your investment back when selling. Homes with updated kitchens and bathrooms, with just cabinet remodels or full remodels that include floors and counters, usually sell faster than those with dated looks.

Do cabinet remodel prices cover door and drawer replacement?

Drawers and doors are covered in refacing prices.

What’s the cost of refacing vs. painting?

Refacing costs about three times as much as the cost of painting a cabinet but gives a permanent solution closer to installing an entirely new kitchen.

How can you get an affordable cabinet resurfacing?

Consider refinishing with paint or stain for about one-third the price of refacing. Get multiple quotes and always pick a pro that supports their work and their products with a multi-year warranty.