Resurfacing vs. Refacing Kitchen Cabinets: What's the difference?

Are you thinking about upgrading your kitchen but not quite ready for a full remodel? Resurfacing and refacing kitchen cabinets are two cost-effective options that can give your kitchen a fresh new look without breaking the bank. But you may be wondering, what’s the difference between resurfacing and refacing, and which option is right for you?

In this article, we’ll explore the advantages and disadvantages of both resurfacing and refacing kitchen cabinets, as well as provide tips and advice on how to decide which option is best for your specific needs.

If you’re planning to hire a professional, keep reading to learn more about resurfacing vs. refacing kitchen cabinets and how to transform your kitchen into the space of your dreams without taking a DIY approach.

Refacing Kitchen Cabinets

Refacing kitchen cabinets involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts with new ones while keeping the existing cabinet boxes.

Advantages of Refacing

This option offers a lot of customization possibilities, allowing you to choose from a variety of materials, finishes, and styles. Refacing can also give your kitchen a completely new look in a relatively short amount of time, without the mess and disruption of a full remodel.

Disadvantages of Refacing

However, refacing is generally more expensive than resurfacing and may not be the most cost-effective option for some homeowners. Additionally, since you’re keeping the existing cabinet boxes, refacing doesn’t address any underlying issues with the cabinets, such as damage or structural problems. It’s also worth noting that refacing may not be feasible if your cabinets are very old or in poor condition, as they may not be able to support the weight of the new doors and drawer fronts.

Resurfacing Kitchen Cabinets

Resurfacing kitchen cabinets involves applying a new surface over the existing cabinet boxes.

Advantages of Resurfacing

This option is typically less expensive than refacing and can give your cabinets a fresh, updated look without the need for a full remodel. Resurfacing also allows you to choose from a variety of materials and finishes to create the look you want. Additionally, resurfacing can be a good option if you’re looking to make minor repairs or changes to your cabinets, such as covering up scratches or refinishing the existing surface.

Disadvantages of Resurfacing

However, resurfacing does have some limitations. For example, it may not be the best option if your cabinets are in poor condition or if you want to change the layout or configuration of your kitchen. Additionally, resurfacing may not be as durable as other options and may need to be redone more frequently. Overall, resurfacing can be a cost-effective way to update your kitchen cabinets, but it’s important to weigh the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision.

Comparison of Resurfacing vs. Refacing

Upgrading your kitchen cabinets can be a great way to breathe new life into your kitchen without the cost and hassle of a full remodel. That’s why the two popular options for updating cabinets are refacing and resurfacing. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they actually refer to two different processes with their own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Why choose to reface kitchen cabinets?

Pros:

• Offers customization possibilities with a variety of materials, finishes, and styles.
• Can give your kitchen a completely new look in a relatively short amount of time.
• Doesn’t require the mess and disruption of a full remodel.

Cons:

• Generally more expensive than resurfacing.
• Doesn’t address any underlying issues with the cabinets, such as damage or structural problems.
• May not be feasible for cabinets that are very old or in poor condition.

Why choose to resurface kitchen cabinets?

Pros:

• Typically less expensive than refacing.
• Can give your cabinets a fresh, updated look without the need for a full remodel.
• Allows you to choose from a variety of materials and finishes.

Cons:

• May not be the best option for cabinets that are in poor condition or need major repairs.
• May not be as durable as other options and may need to be redone more frequently.
• May not be able to change the layout or configuration of your kitchen.

Overall, both refacing and resurfacing kitchen cabinets offer cost-effective ways to update the look of your kitchen without the expense and disruption of a full remodel. The decision ultimately comes down to your specific needs and goals for your kitchen.

Refacing is a good option for those looking for more customization and a completely new look while resurfacing is better for those looking for a simple refresh and a more budget-friendly option. It’s important to consider the pros and cons of each option and consult with a professional to determine which one is right for your specific situation.

DIY vs. Professional Resurfacing and Refacing

While there are many DIY resources available for resurfacing and refacing kitchen cabinets, it’s worth considering the benefits of hiring a professional. First and foremost, professionals have the experience and expertise to get the job done right the first time.

At MPREX, know the best materials to use and the right techniques to ensure a durable, long-lasting finish. Additionally, hiring a professional can save you time and hassle. Refacing and resurfacing can be time-consuming and require specialized tools, which you may not have on hand.

A professional can complete the job efficiently and with minimal disruption to your daily life. Finally, hiring a professional can actually save you money in the long run. If you attempt to DIY the project and make a mistake, you may end up needing to hire a professional to fix the damage. In contrast, a professional will guarantee their work and ensure that the job is done right the first time, saving you from potential headaches and additional expenses.

Final Thoughts

Whether you choose to go with refacing or resurfacing or decide to hire a professional or tackle the project yourself, upgrading kitchen cabinets can make all the difference. With a little bit of planning and effort, you can transform your kitchen into a space you love for years to come.

Want us to complete this project for you? Contact us today for a free quote!