Do you have cabinets in your kitchen that appear tired and old? Are you ready for something new? If you have an unlimited budget, then you can choose to handle the problem by renovating your entire kitchen. However, the majority of people find themselves stuck in a different camp – the one that limits how much they can spend on a cabinet upgrade.

When it comes to updating your cabinets, you have two main options: you can reface or replace. Learning about the pros and cons of each can help you make a decision based on what’s right for you.

Pros and Cons of Refacing Your Cabinets

When you make the decision to reface your cabinets, you are going to be able to save quite a bit of money. If your actual cabinet boxes are fine and don’t need any work, then you just need to replace the drawer fronts and cabinet doors. The cost of this project will depend on the materials you choose and if you are refinishing the existing components, or replacing them altogether.

Refinishing the existing doors and drawers is going to be the most cost-effective option. You will have to have a few stripping agents, some tools and an outside space to do the work. You will also have to choose the new paint or stain, along with new hardware, you are going to use.

However, if the cabinets need a complete overhaul, then you are going to have even more options. You can reface the surface with one of three materials, which include wood veneer, rigid thermofoil or RTF and plastic laminate. RTF is the most cost effective and the most durable, which makes it a popular option. Plastic laminate is next in terms of affordability, with wood veneer being the most expensive option.

Keep in mind, if you opt to reface your cabinets, it means the layout of your kitchen will remain the same. If you want a more significant change, then you should consider complete cabinet replacement.

Pros and Cons of Cabinet Replacement

If you have cabinet boxes that are in need of some serious help, then it may be time to discontinue their use altogether. Replacing your cabinets also means that you can move other elements of your kitchen, such as switching the location of your stove and sink. However, this complete overhaul is going to come with a much higher price tag.

Each option has its merits; however, you will have to figure out which one is right for you. In most cases, your budget is going to play a significant role in if you reface or replace your cabinets. Contact the professionals at Custom Cabinets by Lawrence today to discuss your options, and which might be better for you.