What each option changes
| Painting | Refacing | Replacing | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What happens | Existing doors, drawers and boxes are prepped and coated | New doors and drawer fronts; boxes covered with veneer | Old cabinets come out, new ones go in |
| Layout | Stays the same | Stays the same | Can change |
| Door style | Stays the same | Can change | Can change |
| Cost | Lowest. Usually 50 to 75% less than replacing | Middle | Highest, and counters often come with it |
| Disruption | Least | Moderate | Most; counters often have to be replaced too |
| Time | About five business days for an average kitchen | Depends on door lead time | Longest. Cabinets are ordered, then installed, and counters usually follow |
| Best when | Boxes are solid and you like the layout and door style | Boxes are solid but you want a different door style | Boxes are damaged or the layout doesn't work |
We offer cabinet painting and kitchen renovations, including new cabinets. We describe refacing here so you can compare, not because we're recommending it.
Questions to ask yourself
- Do the cabinets have water damage, especially under the sink?
- Do the doors and drawers open and close properly, or can the hardware be adjusted or replaced?
- Do you like the door style, just not the color?
- Does the layout give you enough storage and counter space?
- Are you planning to change countertops or appliances soon?
If most of your answers point to "the cabinets are fine, I just hate the color," painting is probably your answer. If it's "I never have enough counter space," no finish will fix that.
Can my cabinets get the finish I want?
Usually, but the existing surface matters. Solid wood and sturdy painted cabinets take a coating well. Heavy wood grain can show through, and peeling vinyl or laminate surfaces often aren't good candidates.
At an estimate we'll look at the cabinets up close and tell you straight what finish you can expect.