What You Need to Know About Cabinet Refacing Before You Renovate

When people hear the word remodelling, they often think of burly, strong men breaking down walls, smashing the whole place up, and a whole lot of headaches for months until the renovation finishes. But that’s not entirely true. Renovation can be as simple as just painting a wall, changing up cabinets, or even simply getting them refaced. More and more homeowners are going the minimal route, especially going for the third option. But before you follow the crown blindly, let’s get you on track with what you need to know about cabinet refacing,

This includes when it works, what it changes, and why so many homeowners are choosing it over replacement. So, if you’re all set on getting your cabinets refaced, here’s what you need to know:

What is Refacing Exactly?

Let’s answer the most obvious question people generally ask after hearing the word refacing. Simply put, refacing means replacing your cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the original cabinet boxes. Veneers or rigid thermofoil are applied to the face frames and sides, and new hardware is installed to complete the transformation. The layout stays the same, but what about the look? Completely different. Don’t confuse it with resurfacing, as this one means applying a new coat over a surface.

When Refacing Makes Sense (and When It Doesn’t)

Another question people normally ask is, What’s the right time to consider refacing your cabinets. Refacing can be a smart option if your existing cabinet boxes are still in pretty good shape. You don’t need to replace everything just because the doors feel dated. If the structure is sturdy, the layout works for your lifestyle, and you’re happy with the internal storage setup, refacing gives you a whole new look without the full cost of a custom build.

But here’s what you need to know about cabinet refacing on the other side: it doesn’t fix structural issues. If your cabinets are warped, falling apart, or don’t offer enough functionality, refacing won’t change that. And if your kitchen layout no longer supports how you cook or live, a full replacement might be the better move.

What the Refacing Process Actually Looks Like

You might think refacing just means slapping on some new doors, but it’s more detailed than that. A professional will begin by removing all existing doors, drawer fronts, hardware, and possibly hinges. The visible cabinet frames and sides are then covered with new veneer to match the fresh door finish. Then come the new doors, drawer fronts, and updated fixtures.

And the best part? You don’t lose access to your kitchen for weeks. Most refacing projects can be completed in just a few days, depending on the scale and number of cabinets.

If you’re working with trusted millwork experts like Premiere Custom Millwork & Fireplaces Ltd., you can count on precision-fitted doors, long-lasting finishes, and an upgrade that feels as luxurious as a full renovation—at a fraction of the price.

Cost, Efficiency, and Environmental Benefits

Here’s something else you need to know about cabinet refacing: it’s significantly more affordable than replacing everything. In fact, most homeowners can expect to spend 30% to 50% less than they would on custom cabinet replacements. That’s a major win for anyone trying to manage a renovation budget without sacrificing style.

It’s also a more eco-conscious solution. By reusing your existing cabinet boxes, you’re proudly reducing waste and preventing perfectly usable materials from ending up in landfills. And in today’s world, a beautiful kitchen that’s also environmentally mindful? That’s a win-win.

What It’s Not: Refacing vs. Refinishing

Don’t confuse refacing with refinishing. Refinishing means sanding down and painting or staining your existing doors. Refacing means replacing those doors entirely and adding a new surface layer to the cabinet frames. Refinishing can work for cosmetic updates on a tight budget, but refacing delivers a more transformative and lasting result.

It’s also not a DIY job for most homeowners. Veneer application requires real skill to avoid bubbling, peeling, or poor alignment. That’s why most people turn to seasoned professionals for a flawless, long-lasting finish.

Is Cabinet Refacing Right for You?

Ultimately, what you need to know about cabinet refacing is that it’s ideal when you love your kitchen layout but not the look. It gives you a fresh style, updated fixtures, and an entirely new feel—without the disruption or full cost of starting over.

If you’re considering a more elegant, efficient alternative to total replacement, cabinet refacing might be exactly what your space needs. And with a trusted team like Premiere Custom Millwork & Fireplaces Ltd., you’ll know every detail is handled with care and craftsmanship.