REVAMP, REFACE, OR REPLACE? Find out whether revamping, refacing or replacing cabinets is the right choice for you!
Home improvement is tricky to tackle no matter where you start. Cabinetry is commonly the first thing you notice when walking into a kitchen space so you want to make sure it represents you & your style. There is a fine line between the value of what it would cost to purchase brand new cabinets versus what it costs to simply update them. Take a look at our remodeling map for further insight.
So how do you know if you should revamp, reface or replace your cabinets? Well before we can answer that question for you, we have a few questions of our own. Are your kitchen cabinets structurally sound? Do you like the current layout of your kitchen? Do you have the budget or the patience for a remodel?
If you’re looking for a quick & valuable alternative update to your kitchen, revamping or refacing may be options for you. If you are looking to change the layout of your kitchen or relocate your sink, we recommend that you consider replacing and preparing for an overhaul of your space. Think about comparing several different quotes from contractors before you start your renovation. In doing so, you can find the option that is best suited to your preferences, time constraints, and budget requirements. Before you make any decisions, however, there are many different factors to take into consideration before starting a project.
Quality
Consider the “bones” of your cabinets first. If the materials are not up to standard, the results can prove costly in the long run. Thoroughly inspect your existing cabinets for any signs of water damage, excessive wear, and tear or warping. You want to make sure that the boxes or bases of your cabinets are structurally sound and in good condition.
Age
Age is a touchy subject, however, knowing how old your cabinets are can help you decide whether or not to replace them. Why spend money refacing cabinets that look completely worn out & tired?
Materials
Cabinet materials play a large role in the life span and beauty of your kitchen. Most cabinets are mostly made of wood and wood-based materials. The most commonly used are hardwood, plywood, particleboard, or Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF).
Wood cabinets vary in color and style based on the material. Options include but are not limited to maple, cherry, hickory, oak, birch, ash, or pine.
The cost to revamp cabinets varies upon the look or finish you are going for, the material used, the size of your kitchen, or how many fronts or doors you are updating.
Functionality
The key to any great, functional space is to have a strategic workflow in your kitchen.
The three major components of the kitchen are the stove/oven, sink, and refrigerator. The “kitchen triangle” is formed from these three points, and it is recommended that they should not exceed a maximum distance from each other. If you are considering refacing or replacing your cabinets, the triangle should be the basis of your kitchen plan. It will allow for efficient movement for cooking in an open space & is a good method to simplify your kitchen.
REMODELING MAP
Time
Purchasing new cabinets and having them installed can be a complex and time-consuming process. The reward is having a kitchen designed exactly to match your style and storage needs. The project could take weeks, particularly if it is part of a complete kitchen remodel. Most refacing projects can be completed in one to two weeks.
New cabinets can completely transform a kitchen. They can make an outdated space look modern and add life to an old, tired kitchen. They can also improve the design and configuration of your space by creating better storage options.
Refacing or repainting your cabinets, doesn’t allow you to change the layout and design of your cabinet space. These are purely cosmetic fixes, not functional improvements; the amount of storage you have when the job is done will be identical to the amount of storage you had before.
