When it comes to updating your cabinets, how do you know if you should replace them entirely, reface them, or refinish your cabinets? While giving your kitchen a makeover, updating your cabinets can make a huge impact on the overall look and feel of the space! All these options have their pros and cons, and it ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, budget, and the condition of your existing cabinets. In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between replacing, refinishing, and refacing cabinets to help you make an informed choice.
Replacing Cabinets
(Service NOT offered by Gen/X Painting)
Replacing your cabinets involves completely removing your existing cabinets and installing new ones. This is a more expensive and time-consuming option, but it does have its benefits. For one, it allows you to completely change the layout and design of your kitchen – if you desire. It also gives you the opportunity to choose cabinets that are customized to your specific needs and preferences. New cabinets are often made of high quality materials and come with some modern features, such as soft-close hinges and pull-out shelves.
Some downsides to replacing your cabinets are that it can be a disruptive and messy process. You may need to make temporary arrangements for your kitchen. Such as setting up a temporary cooking area for while the work is being done. Additionally, depending on the size of the project, it can take several weeks or even months to complete. When replacing cabinets, you will likely have to factor in the cost of having a plumber come in and redo the plumbing in the kitchen.
(For cabinet replacing services, try this local business!)
Refacing Cabinets
(Service NOT offered by Gen/X Painting)
Refacing cabinets involves replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware while keeping the existing cabinet boxes intact. The new doors and drawer fronts can be made of a variety of materials, such as wood, laminate, or veneer. The cabinets themselves may also be covered with a new veneer or laminate. This option is often chosen when the existing cabinets are in good structural condition but the appearance is outdated. This option is not suitable for all cabinets as they should not be refaced if the cabinet boxes are in poor condition, or have water damage.
Refacing is more cost effective than completely replacing the cabinets. However, it is more expensive than refinishing because it involves more material and labor costs. Also refacing is less durable than refinishing cabinets. The new Lacquer coating on cabinets that have been refinished by Gen/X can protect against moisture and ware – causing them to last much longer!
Refinishing Cabinets
(This service is offered by Gen/X Painting. See more about this service by clicking here.)
Refinishing your cabinets involves sanding down the existing finish, and applying a new stain or paint. At Gen/X Painting, we complete all of our cabinet refinishing jobs by spraying with lacquer paint! Which has a gorgeous ‘new cabinet’ finish that lasts 10+ years. Refinishing is a more budget-friendly option that can give your kitchen a fresh new look without the cost and hassle of completely replacing or refacing your cabinets. Refinishing is also an environmentally conscious option, as it reduces waste by reusing the existing cabinets.
One of the benefits of refinishing your cabinets is that it is a relatively quick process, often taking only a couple of days – weeks to complete (depending on the size of the job). It also allows you to keep the same layout and design of your cabinets if you’re happy with it. Refinishing can be done in a variety of colors and finishes, from a natural wood look to a bold paint color.
However, there are some potential downsides to refinishing your cabinets. For one, the final result will depend on the quality of the existing cabinets. If your cabinets are in poor condition or have significant damage, refinishing may not be the best option. Additionally, refinishing may not offer as many customization options as completely replacing your cabinets would. At Gen/X, one option we recommend if you’re looking for some extra customization, is changing out the hardware on the cabinets!
Consensus
Ultimately, whether you choose to replace, reface, or refinish your cabinets will depend on your personal preferences, budget, and the condition of your existing cabinets. All options have their pros and cons, and it’s important to carefully consider your needs and goals before making a decision. Regardless of which option you choose, updating your cabinets can make a huge difference in the overall look and feel of your kitchen, and can even increase the value of your home.
If you think refinishing is the option is best for you – don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Gen/X to get the job done for you!