Kitchen cabinet refacing is a process that involves giving your existing cabinets a new look by replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and sometimes the hardware, while keeping the cabinet boxes intact. This is a more cost-effective and less intrusive alternative to completely replacing the entire cabinet structure. Cabinet refacing can be a great option if your cabinet boxes are in good condition and you want to update the appearance of your kitchen without the need for a full renovation.
Here's a step-by-step overview of how kitchen cabinets are typically refaced:
Evaluate the existing cabinets: A professional will inspect your current cabinet boxes to ensure they are in good structural condition. If the boxes are damaged or poorly constructed, refacing might not be the best option, and a replacement may be more appropriate.
Choose the new cabinet style: Select the type of cabinet doors and drawer fronts you want to use for the refacing project. There are various styles, materials, and finishes available to suit your design preferences.
Remove the existing doors and hardware: The old cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware (handles, knobs, hinges) are carefully removed from the cabinet boxes.
Prepare the cabinet boxes: The cabinet boxes are thoroughly cleaned and prepped to ensure proper adhesion of the new material that will be applied.
Apply the new veneer or laminate: Veneer or laminate sheets in the chosen style are cut to the appropriate size and applied to the exposed surfaces of the cabinet boxes using an adhesive. The veneer or laminate can be pre-glued or applied with contact cement.
Install new doors and drawer fronts: The new cabinet doors and drawer fronts are attached to the refaced cabinet boxes using hinges and hardware. Soft-close hinges and drawer slides can also be added for a modern touch.
Add finishing touches: New hardware, such as handles and knobs, can be installed on the newly refaced doors and drawer fronts. This step adds the final decorative elements to complement the updated look.
Complete any additional modifications: If desired, other modifications, such as adding crown molding, trim, or decorative panels, can be incorporated to enhance the overall appearance of the refaced cabinets.
It's essential to have the cabinet refacing process carried out by experienced professionals to ensure a high-quality result. DIY refacing projects can be challenging and may not yield the same level of craftsmanship as professional services.
By refacing your kitchen cabinets, you can achieve a fresh, updated look for your kitchen without the time and cost associated with a full cabinet replacement.