Cabinet Refinishing vs. Refacing vs. Replacing
Cabinet Refinishing vs. Refacing vs. Replacing
Which is Best for Your Home?
When it comes to upgrading your kitchen cabinets, homeowners often struggle to decide between cabinet refinishing, refacing, or completely replacing their cabinets. Each option has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your budget, desired outcome, and long-term goals.
In this guide, we’ll compare the costs, benefits, and drawbacks of these three popular cabinet makeover solutions to help you decide which option is best for your home.
Understanding Your Options: Refinishing, Refacing, or Replacing
Cabinet Refinishing: The Cost-Effective Upgrade
Best for homeowners who:
✅ Have structurally sound cabinets but want a fresh new look
✅ Want the most affordable solution
✅ Prefer a quick turnaround with minimal disruption
What is cabinet refinishing?
Cabinet refinishing involves sanding down your existing cabinet doors and frames, then applying a new stain, paint, or finish. This process preserves the original cabinet materials while completely transforming their appearance.
Pros:
✔️ Most budget-friendly option (typically $2,000-$6,000 depending on kitchen size)
✔️ Quick process (usually completed within a week)
✔️ No demolition or waste—eco-friendly choice
✔️ Wide range of paint colors, stains, and finishes available
Cons:
❌ Doesn’t fix warped, damaged, or outdated cabinet styles
❌ Limited ability to change cabinet layout or add features
Cabinet Refacing: A Middle-Ground Makeover
Best for homeowners who:
✅ Want to change the cabinet door style and color
✅ Have outdated cabinets but don’t want a full replacement
✅ Are okay with spending a bit more for a completely new look
What is cabinet refacing?
Cabinet refacing involves replacing just the cabinet doors and drawer fronts, while the original cabinet frames remain. A new veneer or laminate covering is applied to match the new doors.
Pros:
✔️ Modernizes your kitchen design without replacing cabinets
✔️ More affordable than replacing cabinets (typically $6,000-$12,000)
✔️ Can add new hardware, soft-close hinges, or glass doors
Cons:
❌ More expensive than refinishing
❌ Doesn’t fix cabinet layout or interior storage issues
❌ If cabinets are in poor condition, refacing won’t help much
Cabinet Replacement: The Full Transformation
Best for homeowners who:
✅ Want a completely new kitchen layout
✅ Have cabinets that are damaged or deteriorating
✅ Are planning a full-scale kitchen renovation
What is cabinet replacement?
Cabinet replacement is exactly what it sounds like—you remove the old cabinets entirely and install new ones. This is the best option if your cabinets are damaged, poorly designed, or outdated beyond repair.
Pros:
✔️ Unlimited customization options—change layout, materials, and design
✔️ Best for kitchens with structural issues or very old cabinets
✔️ Increases home resale value with a high ROI
Cons:
❌ Most expensive option (typically $15,000-$50,000)
❌ Major disruption—weeks or months of renovation work
❌ Requires hiring a contractor and potentially redoing countertops & plumbing
Cost Comparison: Which Option Fits Your Budget?
| Option | Cost Range | Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabinet Refinishing | $2,000 – $6,000 | 3-7 days | Budget-conscious homeowners who want a fresh look |
| Cabinet Refacing | $6,000 – $12,000 | 1-2 weeks | Homeowners looking for a modernized design |
| Cabinet Replacement | $15,000 – $50,000+ | 4-8 weeks | Full kitchen renovations with layout changes |
Pros & Cons at a Glance
| Feature | Refinishing | Refacing | Replacing |
| Cost | ✅ Most affordable | ✅ Mid-range | ❌ Most expensive |
| Speed | ✅ Fastest (3-7 days) | ✅ Medium (1-2 weeks) | ❌ Slowest (4-8 weeks) |
| Customization | ❌ Limited to colors/finishes | ✅ Change door styles & veneers | ✅ Full customization |
| Disruption | ✅ Minimal | ✅ Moderate | ❌ Major renovation required |
| Best For | Small budget updates | Style upgrades | Full kitchen redesign |
Which Option is Best for You?
The best choice for your cabinet makeover depends on your budget, timeframe, and goals:
💰 On a tight budget? → Cabinet refinishing is the most affordable and fastest option.
🛠 Want a style change but keep costs down? → Refacing is a great balance between cost and customization.
🏡 Doing a full kitchen remodel? → Replacing cabinets offers the most flexibility but at a higher cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
1️⃣ How much should it cost to refinish kitchen cabinets?
The cost of refinishing kitchen cabinets in Edmonton typically ranges from $2,000 to $6,000, depending on factors like cabinet size, material, number of doors/drawers, and the type of finish applied. Professional cabinet refinishing services offer high-quality finishes that last 10+ years, making it a cost-effective alternative to replacing cabinets.
✅ Average Costs in Edmonton:
- Small kitchens: $2,000 – $3,500
- Medium kitchens: $3,500 – $5,000
- Large kitchens: $5,000+
For a precise quote, contact Cabinet Refinishing St. Albert today for a free cabinet refinishing estimate in Edmonton!
2️⃣ Is it cheaper to refinish cabinets or buy new ones?
Yes! Cabinet refinishing is significantly cheaper than replacing cabinets. On average:
💰 Cabinet Refinishing → $2,000 – $6,000
💰 Cabinet Refacing → $6,000 – $12,000
💰 Cabinet Replacement → $15,000 – $50,000+
By choosing cabinet refinishing, homeowners can save thousands of dollars while achieving a brand-new kitchen look without the hassle of demolition. Refinishing is also eco-friendly, as it reduces landfill waste.
Get a free refinishing consultation today!
3️⃣ Is cabinet refinishing worth it?
Absolutely! Cabinet refinishing is one of the best home improvement investments because:
✔️ Saves up to 75% compared to new cabinets
✔️ Increases home value & ROI (Buyers love updated kitchens!)
✔️ Extends the lifespan of existing cabinets
✔️ Faster turnaround (1-2 weeks vs. months for replacements)
✔️ Eco-friendly option (Reduces landfill waste)
For homeowners in Edmonton looking for affordable cabinet refinishing, this service offers a high return on investment while modernizing your space.
4️⃣ What is the cheapest way to refinish cabinets?
The most budget-friendly way to refinish kitchen cabinets includes:
✅ DIY Painting: Sanding and applying a new coat of cabinet-grade paint ($200-$500 for materials).
✅ Gel Staining: Restoring cabinets with gel stain or wood glaze to enhance the natural wood grain.
✅ Professional Refinishing: Hiring experts for a flawless, durable factory finish ($2,000+ but long-lasting).
If you’re looking for a long-lasting and professional-grade finish, investing in cabinet refinishing services in Edmonton ensures better durability and a showroom-quality look.
5️⃣ Can I repaint over my kitchen cabinets without sanding?
Yes, but proper prep work is key for a long-lasting finish! To paint cabinets without sanding, use:
✔️ Degreaser & Cleaner – Removes grease buildup.
✔️ Liquid Sandpaper (Deglosser) – Helps paint adhere without sanding.
✔️ Bonding Primer – Ensures the new paint sticks properly.
🔹 Pro Tip: If cabinets have glossy finishes, peeling paint, or deep stains, light sanding is recommended for best results.
Want a professional-grade, no-sand refinishing? Contact [Your Business Name] for expert cabinet painting in Edmonton!
6️⃣ Can I refinish my cabinets myself?
Yes, but DIY cabinet refinishing requires patience, skills, and the right tools. Homeowners who DIY should:
✅ Remove cabinet doors & hardware
✅ Clean & sand surfaces properly
✅ Apply a high-quality primer & cabinet-grade paint
✅ Seal with a durable topcoat
🔹 DIY vs. Professional:
- DIY refinishing costs $200-$600 but may not last as long.
- Professional refinishing ensures a factory-grade, durable finish that lasts 10+ years.
For a flawless, hassle-free refinishing process, trust Edmonton’s cabinet refinishing specialists!
7️⃣ What happens if you don’t sand before painting cabinets?
Skipping sanding can result in poor paint adhesion, leading to:
❌ Peeling & chipping within months
❌ Uneven paint finish & streaks
❌ Poor durability & frequent touch-ups needed
For the best results, always:
✔️ Use deglosser or liquid sandpaper for a no-sand method.
✔️ Apply bonding primer before painting.
✔️ Choose cabinet-grade paint for a smooth finish.
Want a professional, long-lasting cabinet finish? Contact Cabinet Refinishing St. Albert today!
8️⃣ What is the best kitchen cabinet color?
The best kitchen cabinet colors for 2024 in Edmonton include:
🎨 Timeless Classics: White, Off-White, and Soft Grays
🎨 Bold & Modern: Deep Blues, Emerald Greens, and Black
🎨 Warm Neutrals: Beige, Taupe, and Greige (Gray + Beige)
🎨 Two-Tone Trend: White upper cabinets + darker lower cabinets
🔹 Pro Tip: Lighter colors make small kitchens appear larger, while darker tones add elegance and contrast.
For custom cabinet refinishing in Edmonton, we help homeowners choose the perfect color to match their kitchen style!
9️⃣ How to restore kitchen cabinets without sanding and varnishing?
To restore kitchen cabinets without sanding, try these quick fixes:
✅ Cabinet Cleaner & Polish – Removes grease, restores shine.
✅ Liquid Sandpaper & Paint – Skips sanding, preps for painting.
✅ Gel Stain or Wood Conditioner – Enhances natural wood tone.
✅ Peel & Stick Veneers – Covers old cabinet surfaces affordably.
✅ New Hardware & Soft-Close Hinges – Instantly upgrades look & feel.
If your cabinets look worn or outdated, professional cabinet refinishing services in Edmonton can restore their beauty without sanding or varnishing.
📢 Need a Free Cabinet Refinishing Quote in Edmonton?
At Cabinet Refinishing St. Albert, we offer premium cabinet refinishing services that:
✔️ Save you up to 75% vs. replacement
✔️ Use durable, professional-grade finishes
✔️ Transform your kitchen in just a few days!
📞 Call for a FREE quote today!
📍 Serving Edmonton, Sherwood Park, St. Albert & surrounding areas
Ready to Transform Your Kitchen? Get a Free Quote Today!
At Cabinet Refinishing St. Albert, we specialize in high-quality cabinet refinishing that saves homeowners thousands while delivering a stunning new look.
📞 Call us today at: 587-817-6477
📍 Serving St. Albert and surrounding areas
💬 Get a Free Estimate Now!