Is refacing more durable than refinishing?

Not necessarily. Professional refinishing with quality materials can last 10-15 years, while refacing typically lasts 15-20 years. The difference is minimal when both are done professionally.

Can I change my cabinet door style with refinishing?

No, refinishing keeps your existing doors. If you want different door styles (shaker, slab, raised panel), you'll need refacing or replacement.

Which option is faster?

Both take approximately 3-5 days for an average kitchen. Refinishing may be slightly faster as it doesn't require manufacturing new doors.

Cabinet Refinishing vs Refacing Indianapolis | Which Is Better? [2024]

When updating your kitchen cabinets, two popular options emerge: refinishing and refacing. Both can transform your space, but they differ significantly in process, cost, and results. Here's everything Indianapolis homeowners need to know.

What Is Cabinet Refinishing?

Cabinet refinishing involves stripping, sanding, and applying new paint or stain to your existing cabinet surfaces. This process: - Preserves your current cabinet boxes and doors - Changes the color and finish - Costs 50-70% less than replacement - Takes 3-5 days for most kitchens

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing replaces the visible surfaces (doors, drawer fronts, and veneers) while keeping the cabinet boxes: - New doors and drawer fronts installed - Veneer applied to cabinet frames - Hardware typically updated - Takes 3-5 days to complete

Cost Comparison

**Refinishing Costs in Indianapolis:** - Average kitchen: $3,500 - $6,000 - Large kitchen: $6,000 - $9,000 - Per door: $100 - $175

**Refacing Costs in Indianapolis:** - Average kitchen: $8,000 - $15,000 - Large kitchen: $15,000 - $25,000 - Per door: $200 - $400

When to Choose Refinishing

Refinishing is ideal when: - Your cabinet doors are solid wood or high-quality material - The cabinet structure is sound - You want to change color but keep the door style - Budget is a primary concern - You like your current cabinet layout

When to Choose Refacing

Refacing makes sense when: - Your cabinet doors are damaged or outdated style - You want a completely different door style - Cabinet boxes are in good condition - Budget allows for higher investment - You want thermofoil or modern slab doors

Durability Comparison

**Professional Refinishing:** - Lasts 10-15 years with proper care - Can be refreshed or updated again - Maintains original wood character

**Quality Refacing:** - Lasts 15-20 years - New doors may be more durable - Limited future customization

Which Delivers Better ROI?

For Indianapolis home values: - Refinishing: 80-100% ROI (lower cost, similar visual impact) - Refacing: 70-85% ROI (higher cost, slightly higher perceived value)

Our Recommendation

For most Indianapolis homeowners with solid wood cabinets in good condition, refinishing offers the best combination of value, quality, and return on investment. If you have damaged doors or want a dramatically different style, refacing may be worth the additional investment.