Last modified: 2019-10-17 | Approximate reading time 
3 mins
After living in your home for some time, it’s normal to long for a change. If you’re not looking to make a huge move, or take on something complicated, then you should consider smaller renovation projects. There are rooms you spend a lot of time in, and the kitchen is one of them. Specifically, many homeowners grow tired of their kitchen cabinets; the colour, the finish, or both. Luckily, through a process called “refacing,” you can offer your cabinets a second chance without investing in a whole new set.
Without demolishing the cabinets entirely and replacing them with something new, you’re able to scratch that update-itch. Are you curious about cabinet refacing? Well, we’re going to go over the benefits of the process below.
The benefits of refacing your kitchen cabinets
source: pexels
How does refacing work?
The process of cabinet refacing comes down to refurbishment. The body of your cabinets stays intact, but the outer layer or the “skins” are removed and replaced, repainted, restrained or revarnished. Many choose to also replace the hardware, such as the drawer pulls, hinges and handles.
To perform this task, you must be skilled and patient, while also having a little bit of renovation experience under your belt. The process isn’t instant and may require between 2 and 4 days. The easiest way to make sure all your bases are covered is to buy a veneer kit from your local hardware store. This will contain the veneers you’ll need as well as the application materials.
It’s important to bear in mind that not all cabinets can be resurfaced. For this reason, it’s important to evaluate your cabinets based on a few conditions:
- A sturdy box that’s made of plywood or MFD panels;
- Face frames of solid hardwood ;
- Drawers that operate smoothly or cabinets with good storage options.
Of course, refacing your cabinets will be more trouble than it’s worth if they’re in bad condition to begin with. So, take the time to decide if refacing is right for your kitchen or if its the right time to upgrade your cabinets.
Benefits of kitchen cabinet refacing
source: pexels
Cost-effective
The cost of installing completely new cabinetry is not something everyone can afford upfront. Again, if you’re craving a change in your kitchen, refacing is an excellent way to offer this while keeping things economical. The cost of refacing will be around 50% less than the cost you’d spend on installing completely new cabinets.
Not only this but if your cabinets are structurally sound and you’re happy with their layout, then there’s no need to invest in the replacement. In fact, many homeowners waste money ripping out perfectly good cabinets and installing new ones because they can’t stand the sight of their outer layer. If you’re in this position, consider refacing over replacing. The process is economical and you’re able to invest the money saved into other renovation projects around your home.
Eco-friendly solution to renew your kitchen cabinets
The reality of the situation is that many renovations create a lot of waste. Taking old cabinets out of the walls and replacing them will lead to obvious debris, which is likely to end up in landfills around the country. Not only this, many cabinets contain a material called formaldehyde, and this is damaging to the environment.
In order to counteract this accumulation of hazardous waste, it’s important to consider the green-friendly aspects of this renovation project. Refacing your cabinets will allow you, or the company you’re working with, to recycle these old materials and breathe new life into them. Surely, if you’re conscious of the current environmental climate, then you’ll consider refacing instead of a replacement.
Finishing options
source: unsplash
Of course, completely replacing your cabinets will offer you plenty of options when it comes to choosing a material, colour or finish. But even with the process of refacing, there are lots of veneering options as well as colours that will allow you almost as much variety. Especially true if you love the look of real wood, you’ll have veneer options such as maple, hickory, and birch available.
Not only are the veneer and paint options abundant, but you have the ability to install completely new hardware. Why not consider trim or moulding? Or even glass doors so that you can showcase some of your finest wares? Whichever option you choose, know that when it comes to refacing there are so many choices out there.
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