Cabinets are an integral aspect of any kitchen, and, therefore are often a focal point when it comes to a kitchen makeover. In fact, kitchen remodeling projects have traditionally involved new cabinet installation as a core phase. But a recent trend in kitchen redesign has eliminated replacement in favor of refacing. With that in mind, let’s explore cabinet refacing vs replacing cost.

Refacing vs Replacement in a Nutshell

In order to appreciate cabinet refacing vs replacing cost, it helps to appreciate the nuance between these two approaches. Cabinet replacement involves a tear-out of the old cabinets. Once the tear-out, cleaning, and prep are complete, cabinet installers design and put it in the new cabinets from scratch.

When refacing cabinets, the structure of the cabinets is left intact. That structure is often referred to as the cabinet boxes. Everything else is removed such as the molding, cabinet drawers, and drawer fronts. Those items are then replaced with new components that have been made by hand using real wood.

Is It Less Expensive to Reface Than Replace?

Yes, absolutely. The cabinet refacing vs replacing cost being superior is a major reason that cabinet refacing is such a hot trend in kitchen remodeling. Actual costs will depend on your location and market conditions, but as a general rule, cabinet refacing will save you between 30% and 50%. That means that if a new cabinet installation would cost $35,000, you can save between $10,500 and $17,500.

Why Is Replacement So Much More Expensive?

The difference between cabinet refacing vs replacing cost all comes down to labor and materials. When you reface cabinets, the cabinet boxes are left intact, and that eliminates a considerable amount of time and labor, and it also eliminates a substantial amount of wood and other materials.

What Dictates the Cost of Refacing?

As mentioned, labor and material costs fluctuate, but you can expect to pay the same as a neighbor per square foot in the same calendar year, and the savings over replacement mentioned earlier will be reflected on a per-square-foot basis. The knobs, pulls, and other hardware you choose could increase the price slightly. The overall price could also increase if you want features like pull-out shelving.