Kitchen cabinets take up a lot of space and are the focal point of the kitchen. Therefore, worn out or dated cabinets badly effect how your kitchen looks, feels and even the value. For many homeowners, a full cabinet tear out and replace may not be in the budget. However, there are other options. Cabinet painting or refacing can dramatically improve the overall appearance and value of your kitchen.

Painting & Refacing

Both, painting and refacing cabinets are fast, economical ways to spruce up your kitchen. Painting freshens up the current look of your cabinetry, whereas refacing can provide a totally new look. Cool tone colors such as white, gray and blue are trending and can create a timeless look and feel. Painting your cabinets will probably cost a little less than refacing. However, painted cabinets can require more maintenance as they tend to collect grease and dirt more than refaced cabinets. If your doors are damaged, warped or don’t close properly, you may want to consider refacing. That said, with painting and refacing, your cabinet framework needs to be in good shape. If that’s not the case, then you should consider replacing your cabinets.

Basically, refacing uses the current cabinet framework and replaces everything on the outside (doors, drawer fronts, hardware). The outside of the cabinet frames and end-panels are covered with a wood or laminate veneer. You get the same quality and look of a full cabinet replacement, but at about half the cost. Additionally, with the costs savings, you may choose to add a backsplash, lighting, flooring or new appliances.

Full replacement

If your cabinets are in bad shape or you want to change the layout, then consider replacing them. Signs that your cabinets may be in bad shape are water damage, mold, soft cabinet walls and warping. Although, replacing cabinets cost more, the change to how your kitchen looks, feels and functions can be amazing. If your cabinets are still in good shape, then please donate them. They may become another person’s dream kitchen.

Conclusion

If done well, you can get the kitchen of your dreams whether you choose cabinet painting, refacing or replacement. The best option depends on your goals, budget and the condition of your cabinets. Additionally, if you plan to move, a great kitchen can increase resale value and help sell your home faster.