Cabinet Refacing Vs Painting: Which Is Better For You?

Cabinet refacing and painting are two popular ways to give your kitchen a fresh new look without breaking the bank. Both options have their pros and cons, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll break down the differences between cabinet refacing vs painting, so you can make an informed decision about which option is best for your home.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to update your kitchen, cabinet refacing and painting are great options. They both offer a quick and easy way to give your cabinets a fresh new look, but the process and results are quite different. Keep reading to learn more about the pros and cons of cabinet refacing vs painting and which option might be best for you.

Cabinet Refacing Vs Painting: Comparison Chart

Comparison Factors	Cabinet Refacing	Painting
Cost	Refacing cabinets costs more than painting, typically ranging from $4,000 to $9,000 for an average kitchen. This is because materials and labor are more expensive.	Painting cabinets is a more affordable option, costing anywhere from $1,500 to $4,000 for an average kitchen. The cost is dependent on the size of the kitchen and the quality of the paint used.
Time	Refacing cabinets takes more time than painting, usually taking 2-4 weeks to complete. This is because the existing cabinets need to be removed, the new veneer or laminate needs to be applied, and the new doors and hardware need to be installed.	Painting cabinets takes less time, usually taking 1-2 weeks to complete. This is because the existing cabinets don’t need to be removed, and the painting process is relatively quick.
Appearance	Cabinet refacing results in a more high-end and polished appearance. The new veneer or laminate can mimic the look of wood or other high-end finishes. Refacing also allows for more customization options.	Painting cabinets can result in a more modern and trendy appearance. The color options are virtually endless, and the finish can be matte, semi-gloss, or glossy. However, the finish may not be as durable as refacing.
Durability	Cabinet refacing is generally more durable than painting. The new veneer or laminate is resistant to moisture, scratches, and other wear and tear. The new doors and hardware also add to the durability of the cabinets.	The durability of painted cabinets depends on the quality of the paint and the finish. While some paints are more durable than others, painted cabinets may be prone to chipping, scratching, and other damage over time.
Resale Value	Cabinet refacing can increase the resale value of a home, as it is considered a major renovation. It can also make a home more attractive to buyers who are looking for a move-in ready home with updated cabinets.	Painting cabinets may not increase the resale value of a home as much as refacing, but it can still make a home more attractive to buyers. It is a more affordable option for homeowners who want to update their kitchen before selling.

Cabinet Refacing vs Painting

When it comes to updating your kitchen, one of the quickest and most cost-effective options is to give your cabinets a new look. But should you choose cabinet refacing or painting? Here, we’ll compare the two options so you can make an informed decision.

Cost

The cost of cabinet refacing varies depending on the size of your kitchen and the materials you choose. On average, you can expect to pay between $3,500 and $8,000 for cabinet refacing. Painting, on the other hand, is a much more affordable option. You can expect to pay between $900 and $3,800 for a professional paint job.

While painting is the cheaper option, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. If you want a high-quality, long-lasting finish, you may need to invest in a professional painter.

Winner: Painting

Time

Cabinet refacing can take anywhere from 3 to 5 days to complete, depending on the size of your kitchen and the materials you choose. Painting, on the other hand, can be done in as little as 1 to 2 days.

Keep in mind that if you choose to reface your cabinets, you may not be able to use your kitchen during the process. However, if you choose to paint your cabinets, you can still use your kitchen while the painter is working.

Winner: Painting

Durability

Cabinet refacing typically involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts while leaving the cabinet boxes intact. This means that the cabinets will be as durable as they were before the refacing process.

Painting, on the other hand, can be less durable if the job is not done properly. If the cabinets are not sanded and prepped correctly, the paint may peel or chip over time.

If you choose to paint your cabinets, make sure you hire a professional painter who will use high-quality materials and take the time to properly prep and paint your cabinets.

Winner: Cabinet Refacing

Appearance

Cabinet refacing can give your kitchen a completely new look. You can choose from a variety of materials and finishes, including wood veneers, laminates, and painted finishes.

Painting can also give your kitchen a new look, but it may not be as drastic of a change as refacing. However, painting does allow for more customization when it comes to color choice.

Winner: Tie

Value

Both cabinet refacing and painting can add value to your home. However, cabinet refacing typically has a higher return on investment than painting.

According to Remodeling Magazine’s 2020 Cost vs Value report, cabinet refacing has an average return on investment of 72.7%, while a minor kitchen remodel (which includes painting cabinets) has an average return on investment of 77.6%.

Winner: Cabinet Refacing

Maintenance

Cabinet refacing requires very little maintenance. You may need to wipe down the cabinets with a damp cloth every now and then, but other than that, they should last for many years.

Painted cabinets may require more maintenance over time. The paint may chip or peel, requiring touch-ups or even a full repaint.

Winner: Cabinet Refacing

Customization

Cabinet refacing allows for a high level of customization. You can choose from a variety of materials, finishes, and hardware to create a look that is unique to your kitchen.

While painting also allows for some customization in terms of color choice, it may not be as customizable as refacing.

Winner: Cabinet Refacing

Environmental Impact

Cabinet refacing is a more environmentally friendly option than painting. Refacing involves less waste since the existing cabinets are reused, and you won’t have to dispose of any paint cans or other materials.

Painting can be more environmentally friendly if you choose to use low-VOC (volatile organic compound) paint. Low-VOC paint emits fewer harmful chemicals into the air and can be a healthier option for your family.

Winner: Cabinet Refacing

Longevity

Cabinet refacing can last for many years, especially if you choose high-quality materials and have them installed by a professional. Painted cabinets may not last as long if the job is not done properly.

Winner: Cabinet Refacing

Conclusion

Both cabinet refacing and painting are viable options for updating your kitchen cabinets. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind a less drastic change, painting may be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more customized, durable option with a higher return on investment, cabinet refacing is the better choice.

Cabinet Refacing vs Painting Pros & Cons

Final Decision: Cabinet Refacing vs Painting

After careful consideration and weighing the pros and cons of both cabinet refacing and painting, the final decision is that cabinet refacing is the better option. While painting can be a quick and inexpensive solution, cabinet refacing offers more long-term benefits and value for money.

Firstly, cabinet refacing allows for a complete transformation of the cabinets without the need for a full replacement. This means that the original structure and layout of the cabinets remains intact, while the exterior is updated to a more modern and stylish design. This is not possible with painting, as it only changes the color and does not address any underlying structural issues.

Secondly, cabinet refacing uses high-quality materials such as wood veneers and laminates, which are durable and long-lasting. This ensures that the cabinets will not only look great after the refacing process, but they will also retain their appearance and functionality for years to come. Painting, on the other hand, can chip and fade over time, requiring frequent touch-ups and maintenance.

Lastly, cabinet refacing adds value to the home. It is a cost-effective way to update the kitchen and increase the overall value of the property. This is particularly important for homeowners who are looking to sell their home in the future, as a modern and updated kitchen is a major selling point. Painting, although it can improve the appearance of the cabinets, does not offer the same value-adding benefits as cabinet refacing.

Reasons for Choosing Cabinet Refacing as the Final Winner:

1. Cabinet refacing allows for a complete transformation of the cabinets without the need for a full replacement.
2. High-quality materials used in cabinet refacing ensures that the cabinets will retain their appearance and functionality for years to come.
3. Cabinet refacing adds value to the home, making it a cost-effective way to update the kitchen and increase the overall value of the property.

Frequently Asked Questions

When it comes to updating your kitchen cabinets, there are two popular options: refacing and painting. Both have their pros and cons, and it can be difficult to decide which is right for you. Below are some common questions and answers to help you make an informed decision.

Question 1: What is cabinet refacing?

Cabinet refacing involves removing the doors and drawer fronts of your existing cabinets and replacing them with new ones. The cabinet boxes themselves are left in place, but can be updated with new veneers or paint. This is a great option if you like the layout of your current cabinets and they are in good condition, but you want to update the look.

Refacing is also a good option if you want to change the color or style of your cabinets, but don’t want to completely replace them. It is typically less expensive than a full cabinet replacement, and can be completed in a shorter amount of time.

Question 2: What is cabinet painting?

Cabinet painting involves painting the existing cabinets in your kitchen. This can be a cost-effective way to update the look of your kitchen without the expense of replacing the cabinets altogether. However, keep in mind that painting cabinets can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process.

Additionally, if your cabinets are in poor condition or have a lot of damage, painting may not be the best option. In these cases, refacing or replacing the cabinets may be a better choice.

Question 3: Which option is more expensive?

In general, cabinet refacing is more expensive than cabinet painting. This is because refacing involves replacing the doors and drawer fronts, as well as potentially adding new veneers to the cabinet boxes. Painting, on the other hand, only requires paint and other supplies.

That being said, the cost of either option can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of your kitchen, the condition of your cabinets, and the materials you choose.

Question 4: Which option is more durable?

Both cabinet refacing and painting can be durable options, but it depends on the materials and techniques used. If you opt for refacing, be sure to choose high-quality materials and work with a reputable contractor to ensure the job is done right.

If you choose to paint your cabinets, be sure to use a high-quality paint that is specifically designed for cabinets. It’s also important to properly prep the cabinets before painting to ensure the paint adheres well and lasts for years to come.

Question 5: How long does each option take?

Cabinet refacing typically takes around 2-4 days to complete, depending on the size of your kitchen and the complexity of the job. Cabinet painting can take longer, usually around 5-7 days or more. Keep in mind that both options may require some additional time for prep work and drying time.

Ultimately, the timeline for each option will depend on the specifics of your project and the contractor you choose to work with. Be sure to discuss timing and expectations with your contractor before starting the project.

In conclusion, when it comes to updating the look of your cabinets, both cabinet refacing and painting are viable options. Cabinet refacing provides a more durable and long-lasting solution, while painting is a more cost-effective option.

Ultimately, the decision between cabinet refacing and painting comes down to personal preference and budget. If you’re looking for a complete transformation and have the budget to do so, cabinet refacing may be the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a quick and affordable update, painting your cabinets is a great option. Regardless of which option you choose, updating your cabinets will give your kitchen a fresh new look that you can enjoy for years to come.