Cabinet Conundrum: When Does Refacing Make Sense?
“The problem many homeowners have to deal with when considering a new look in their kitchens or bathrooms is not whether they should do something, but, rather,what is the best course of action,” says Tim Marsden, owner of Select Woodworks by TM.
“In my mind, there are just a few questions a homeowner should ask themselves prior to moving forward with any project that involves cabinetry,” adds Marsden. “Knowing that refacing cabinets produces the new or fresh look many are seeking for about half the cost of buying new cabinets, is important to consider when determining if refacing is a viable option for you.”
Tim's Starting Points:
♦ Just about any style can be refaced – there is virtually no limit to this
♦ Any popular finish can be replicated or replaced with a new finish
♦ Consider budget — refacing can be done without affecting countertops, floors, backsplashes and other related surfaces. New cabinets will affect all of those.
Tim's Basic Questions:
♦ Is the footprint of your cabinetry going to remain the same? If so, refacing has a huge financial advantage over replacing your cabinets.
♦ Is timing important to you? Refacing can generally be done within a weeks time.Compare that to three or more weeks for
replacing cabinets. Include in your budget new countertops as well because if you are putting in new cabinets, the existing countertops will have to go.
♦ Is having amess in your home significant to you? If so, remember that to remove old cabinetry prior to replacement, the tear-out phase is often call demolition. It’s a mess and refacing avoids the disruption and the mess involved with this step.
♦ Is your floor in good shape? If you like your floor and want to keep it intact, refacing will not affect it at all.
♦ Are your cabinets structurally sound? If so, nearly anything can be done in terms or refacing. If they are falling apart, nothing can help and its best to consider replacement. In general, if your present cabinets are sound, but are worn with age, have an out-of-date style or a finish which no longer works, refacing is a great option to consider.
Editor’s Note: Refacing can include the following:
♦ Removing the old doors & hardware
♦ Occasionally selected cabinets if needed
♦ Installing new cabinets if needed
♦ Covering outside body of cabinets with 1/8" wood veneer
♦ Install new doors, hinges, hardware, knick knack shelves, cutlery trays, bead boards, under counter lights , lazy susan, etc.
