Cabinet Refinishing vs Refacing: Complete Comparison Guide
Both refinishing and refacing can transform your kitchen, but they're very different processes with different costs and results. Here's everything you need to know.
The Quick Answer
Refinishing involves painting or staining your existing cabinet boxes and doors for $3,500-$8,500. Refacing replaces the door fronts and covers boxes with veneer for $8,000-$15,000. For most homeowners, refinishing offers the best value with comparable visual results at half the cost.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Cabinet Refinishing
$3,500 - $8,500average project
Best for: Structurally sound cabinets that need a color/finish update
Cabinet Refacing
$8,000 - $15,000average project
Best for: Cabinets with damaged doors but good boxes, wanting different door style
Cost Breakdown
Refinishing Costs
- - Small kitchen (15-20 doors): $3,500-$5,000
- - Medium kitchen (20-30 doors): $5,000-$7,000
- - Large kitchen (30-40 doors): $7,000-$8,500
- - Oak grain filling: +$700-$1,200
Refacing Costs
- - Small kitchen: $8,000-$10,000
- - Medium kitchen: $10,000-$13,000
- - Large kitchen: $13,000-$15,000+
- - Premium door styles: +$2,000-$4,000
Process Comparison
Refinishing Process
- Remove doors and drawers
- Clean and degrease all surfaces
- Sand and prep for paint
- Apply primer
- Spray 2-3 coats of finish
- Reinstall with new hardware
Refacing Process
- Remove old doors and drawers
- Measure for new doors
- Apply veneer to cabinet boxes
- Wait for new doors (2-4 weeks)
- Install new doors and hardware
- Final adjustments
When to Choose Each Option
Choose Refinishing If:
- Your cabinet boxes and doors are structurally sound
- You like your current door style
- You want maximum value for your budget
- You need a quick turnaround
- You want any color option available
Choose Refacing If:
- Your doors are damaged but boxes are good
- You want a completely different door style
- Budget allows for higher investment
- You can wait 2-4 weeks for new doors
- You want real wood veneer look
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lasts longer, refinishing or refacing?
Both can last 10-15+ years with proper care. Professional refinishing with quality products is extremely durable. Refacing durability depends on the quality of the new doors and veneer used.
Can I refinish cabinets that have been refaced?
Yes, refaced cabinets can typically be refinished in the future. The veneer and new doors can be painted just like original wood cabinets.
Is refacing worth the extra cost over refinishing?
For most homeowners, no. Refinishing delivers comparable visual results at roughly half the cost. Refacing only makes sense if you need a completely different door style or your current doors are damaged.
Can refinishing change my cabinet door style?
Refinishing keeps your existing door style but changes the color/finish. If you want a different door profile (like going from raised panel to shaker), you'd need refacing or new cabinets.
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