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How Much Does It Cost To Redo A Kitchen Cabinets: Your Guide
Redoing your kitchen cabinets can make your kitchen look new. It costs less than a full kitchen remodel. The cost to redo kitchen cabinets can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. It depends on what you choose to do. For example, kitchen cabinet painting price can be low if you do it yourself. It gets higher if you hire pros. Can you paint kitchen cabinets yourself? Yes, you can. It saves money, but takes time and effort. Who is best for cabinet refacing? A professional cabinet refacer is best for this job. They have special tools and skills. This guide helps you see all your options and their costs.
Why Redo Your Kitchen Cabinets?
Your kitchen is the heart of your home. Old cabinets can make it look tired. Redoing your cabinets gives your kitchen a fresh look. It does not cost as much as buying all new ones. This is a smart way to update your home. It can also make your home worth more.
Saving Money with Cabinet Redos
Buying new cabinets is very costly. A full kitchen remodel costs even more. Redoing your existing cabinets is much cheaper. You keep the good parts, like the cabinet boxes. You just change the look. This saves you money on materials and labor. It is also good for the Earth. You reuse what you have instead of throwing it away.
Key Factors Shaping Your Cabinet Redo Costs
Many things change the final price of redoing cabinets. Knowing these helps you plan your budget.
Size of Your Kitchen
A bigger kitchen has more cabinets. More cabinets mean more work and more materials. So, a small kitchen costs less to redo than a large one. Count your cabinets and drawers to get a rough idea.
What Your Cabinets Are Made Of
The type of wood or material your cabinets are made from matters. Some materials are easier to paint. Others need more prep work. For example, laminate cabinets need special primers. Solid wood cabinets might need sanding or stripping.
The Method You Pick
This is the biggest factor. Painting, refinishing, and refacing all have different costs. Each method needs different amounts of work. They also need different materials. We will look at each method in detail.
Who Does the Work
You can do the work yourself. This is called DIY. Or you can hire a pro. Doing it yourself saves money on labor. But it costs you time and effort. Hiring a pro costs more money. But they often do a better, faster job. They have special tools and skills.
New Hardware and Extras
New knobs, pulls, and hinges can add to the cost. But they also make a big difference. They give your cabinets a new look. Think about these small details in your budget.
Options for Redoing Kitchen Cabinets and Their Expenses
There are many ways to redo your cabinets. Each way has its own cost range.
1. Giving Cabinets a Fresh Paint Coat
Painting your cabinets is often the cheapest way to change their look. It is a good choice if your cabinets are in good shape.
DIY Kitchen Cabinet Painting Price
If you paint your cabinets yourself, your main cost is materials.
You will need:
* Cleaner
* Sanding paper
* Primer
* Paint (cabinet-grade paint)
* Paint brushes and rollers
* Drop cloths and painter’s tape
* New hardware (optional)
Cost Estimate for DIY Painting:
* Materials: $200 – $600
* This cost is for a average-sized kitchen. It depends on the paint quality. It also depends on how many cabinets you have.
* Time: 3-7 days or more. This is a big job. It needs many steps.
Pros of DIY Painting:
* Very low average kitchen cupboard repaint cost.
* You choose the color exactly.
* You feel proud of your work.
Cons of DIY Painting:
* Takes a lot of time.
* Needs careful prep work.
* Mistakes can be hard to fix.
* The finish might not look as smooth as a pro’s.
Professional Cabinet Spraying Cost
Hiring a professional painter costs more. But you get a smooth, factory-like finish. They use special sprayers. This makes the paint even and durable.
Cost Estimate for Professional Painting:
* Small Kitchen: $1,500 – $3,000
* Medium Kitchen: $3,000 – $6,000
* Large Kitchen: $6,000 – $10,000+
* These costs include labor and materials. They also include the pro’s skill and tools.
Pros of Professional Painting:
* High-quality, smooth finish.
* Durable paint job.
* Saves you time and effort.
* Less mess for you.
Cons of Professional Painting:
* Higher cost upfront.
* You need to trust someone else with your kitchen.
Table: Cabinet Painting Cost Summary
| Method | Average Cost Range ($) | DIY Time | Professional Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Painting | $200 – $600 | High | Medium |
| Professional Painting | $1,500 – $10,000+ | Low | High |
2. Bringing Back the Shine: Refinishing Cabinets
The cost to refinish kitchen cabinets is higher than painting. But it is still less than refacing or replacing. Refinishing means restoring the original wood. You strip off the old finish. Then you sand and stain or seal the wood again. This works best for solid wood cabinets.
What Does Cabinet Refinishing Involve?
- Removal: Take off cabinet doors and drawers. Take off all hardware.
- Stripping: Remove old paint or stain. This is often done with chemicals.
- Sanding: Smooth the wood. Get rid of any old finish left. Prepare it for new stain.
- Staining/Sealing: Apply new stain or sealer. This brings out the wood’s natural beauty. It also protects the wood.
- Reassembly: Put doors, drawers, and hardware back on.
Cost Estimate for Refinishing:
* DIY: $300 – $1,000 (for materials like stripper, sander, stain, sealer)
* Professional: $2,000 – $7,000+ (for labor and materials)
Pros of Refinishing:
* Shows off the natural wood grain.
* Can look very high-end.
* Very durable finish if done right.
* Adds value to your home.
Cons of Refinishing:
* Very messy work.
* Needs good ventilation due to chemicals.
* Takes a lot of time and effort for DIY.
* Only works well for real wood cabinets.
3. Giving a New Face: Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing cost falls between refinishing and full replacement. This method keeps your existing cabinet boxes. But it gives them a brand new look. You replace the doors and drawer fronts. You also cover the cabinet boxes with a new veneer. A veneer is a thin layer of material. It matches the new doors.
What Does Cabinet Refacing Include?
- New Doors and Drawer Fronts: These are custom made. They fit your cabinet boxes. You choose the style, color, and material.
- Veneer: A matching material covers the old cabinet boxes. This makes them look like the new doors.
- New Hinges and Hardware: New hinges are often included. You can add new handles or pulls.
The replacing cabinet doors cost is a major part of refacing. It can also be a standalone option if your cabinet boxes are perfect. You just swap out old doors for new ones.
Materials for Refacing:
* Laminate: A very common and affordable choice. Many colors and patterns.
* Rigid Thermofoil (RTF): A durable plastic coating. Many styles available.
* Wood Veneer: Thin layers of real wood. Offers a natural look.
* Solid Wood: The most expensive option. Gives a high-end feel.
Cost Estimate for Cabinet Refacing:
* Small Kitchen: $1,000 – $4,000 (for basic materials like laminate)
* Medium Kitchen: $4,000 – $10,000
* Large Kitchen: $10,000 – $15,000+ (especially for solid wood doors)
Pros of Cabinet Refacing:
* Gives a truly “new” look without replacing boxes.
* Less messy than a full gut job.
* Faster than a full kitchen remodel.
* You can change the style completely.
Cons of Cabinet Refacing:
* More expensive than painting or refinishing.
* You cannot change the layout of your kitchen.
* The inside of your cabinets stays the same.
Table: Cabinet Refacing Cost Summary
| Material Type | Average Cost Range (per linear foot) |
|---|---|
| Laminate/RTF | $70 – $150 |
| Wood Veneer | $100 – $200 |
| Solid Wood | $150 – $300+ |
Note: Total cost depends on kitchen size and chosen material. Multiply linear feet by your kitchen’s cabinet length.
4. General Cabinet Resurfacing Expenses
The term “cabinet resurfacing expenses” can cover both refinishing and refacing. It means giving the surface of your cabinets a new look.
If someone offers “resurfacing,” ask them what they mean. Are they painting, refinishing, or refacing? Each has a different cost.
Average Cabinet Resurfacing Expenses:
* From a few hundred dollars (DIY paint) to over $15,000 (pro refacing with premium materials).
This broad term simply means you are changing the look of your existing cabinets. It’s important to get clear quotes. Ask what method they plan to use.
DIY Cabinet Makeover Cost vs. Professional Services
Deciding between DIY and professional help is a big choice. It impacts your refurbishing kitchen cabinet budget greatly.
The Appeal of DIY Cabinet Makeover Cost
Doing it yourself can save a lot of money. You only pay for materials. You use your own time and effort.
DIY Cabinet Makeover Cost can be as low as $200 for paint and supplies.
What You Can Do Yourself:
- Painting: This is the most common DIY cabinet makeover. It requires patience and attention to detail.
- Hardware Replacement: Easy to do. Just unscrew old ones, put on new ones.
- Cleaning and Degreasing: Important first step for any project.
- Minor Repairs: Fixing loose hinges or small dings.
What DIY Needs:
- Time: Many hours or days.
- Patience: Rushing leads to mistakes.
- Tools: Basic painting tools, sandpaper, screwdrivers.
- Skill: Some level of handyman skill helps. Good preparation is key.
Considerations for DIY:
* Quality: A DIY job might not look as perfect as a pro’s. Brush strokes might show.
* Durability: Professional finishes are often more durable. They use tougher paints and methods.
* Frustration: Projects can be harder than they look.
* Resale Value: A poor DIY job can lower your home’s value. A good one can raise it.
When to Bring in the Pros
For painting, a professional cabinet spraying cost brings a smooth, even finish. For refinishing, pros handle messy chemicals safely. For refacing, pros ensure a precise fit for new doors.
When to Hire a Professional:
- You want a factory-smooth finish.
- You don’t have the time or patience.
- Your cabinets need major repairs before painting/refinishing.
- You are doing cabinet refacing. This needs special skills and tools.
- You want a warranty on the work.
Breaking Down the Refurbishing Kitchen Cabinet Budget
To plan your refurbishing kitchen cabinet budget, think about all parts of the job.
1. Materials
This is what you buy for the cabinets themselves.
* Paint/Stain: Costs depend on quality and type.
* Primer: Essential for good adhesion.
* Veneers/New Doors: If you are refacing. Material choice impacts cost a lot.
* Sanding Supplies: Paper, sponges, sander rentals.
* Cleaning Supplies: Degreasers, rags.
* Protective Gear: Gloves, masks, eye protection.
2. Labor
This is what you pay the people doing the work.
* Painters: Hourly or project rates.
* Refinishers: Specialists in wood restoration.
* Refacers: Companies that specialize in cabinet refacing.
* Labor can be 60-80% of the total cost for professional jobs.
3. Preparation
Good prep work is vital. It impacts the final look and durability.
* Cleaning: Removing all grease and grime.
* Sanding: Roughing up the surface for paint or stain.
* Repairs: Filling holes, fixing dings, tightening hinges.
* Taping and Covering: Protecting walls, floors, and appliances.
4. Hardware
New knobs, pulls, and hinges can make a big difference.
* Knobs and Pulls: Range from $2 to $30+ each.
* Hinges: Can be $2 to $10+ each. Soft-close hinges cost more.
* Consider the total number of items needed.
5. Removal and Disposal
If you are replacing doors, you need to get rid of the old ones. Some pros include this in their quote. Others might charge extra.
Example Refurbishing Kitchen Cabinet Budget Breakdown (Medium Kitchen, Professional Painting):
| Item | Estimated Cost ($) | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Labor | $2,500 | 62.5% |
| Paint & Primer | $500 | 12.5% |
| Supplies (tape, paper) | $200 | 5% |
| New Hardware (optional) | $400 | 10% |
| Prep & Clean-up | $400 | 10% |
| Total Estimate | $4,000 | 100% |
This is an example. Your costs will vary.
Saving Money on Your Cabinet Redo Project
Even with a budget, you can look for ways to save.
- Do Some DIY: Tackle parts you feel good about. Maybe you do the cleaning and removing hardware. A pro can do the rest.
- Choose Simpler Materials: Laminate for refacing costs less than solid wood. Basic paint is cheaper than specialty finishes.
- Keep Existing Hardware: If your knobs and pulls are fine, keep them. Just clean them well.
- Get Multiple Quotes: Talk to 3-5 different pros. Compare their prices and what they offer. Make sure quotes include everything.
- Off-Season Discounts: Some pros might offer lower prices in slower months (like winter).
- Only Redo What’s Visible: Maybe only your upper cabinets need a full redo. You can paint lower ones or just clean them.
Grasping the Kitchen Cabinet Renovation Cost Estimate
When you think about the full kitchen cabinet renovation cost estimate, redoing cabinets is one part. A full renovation includes new countertops, flooring, appliances, and more. Redoing cabinets is a way to get a new look without the huge cost of a full remodel.
Comparison of Costs:
* Redoing Cabinets (Paint/Refinish/Reface): $200 – $15,000
* Replacing All Cabinets (New): $5,000 – $30,000+
* Full Kitchen Renovation: $15,000 – $80,000+
You can see that redoing cabinets is a good middle ground. It lets you change the look without breaking the bank. It also avoids major construction mess.
Getting Ready for Your Cabinet Redo
Before you start, plan carefully.
- Look at Your Cabinets: Are they sturdy? Are the boxes in good shape? If yes, painting or refacing is an option. If not, you might need new cabinets.
- Pick Your Method: Decide if you want to paint, refinish, or reface. Your budget and desired look will guide this.
- Choose Your Finish: What color or style do you want? Gather ideas.
- DIY or Pro? Make this choice early.
- Get Quotes: If hiring a pro, get several detailed quotes.
- Clear the Kitchen: Empty your cabinets. Clear your counters. This makes the job easier and cleaner.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it take to redo kitchen cabinets?
A1: It depends on the method. DIY painting can take 3-7 days. Professional painting might take 2-5 days on site. Refinishing can take a week or more. Refacing usually takes 3-5 days of work once materials are ready.
Q2: Is it cheaper to paint or reface kitchen cabinets?
A2: Painting is almost always cheaper than refacing. DIY painting is the lowest cost. Professional painting is also less expensive than professional refacing.
Q3: Can you redo laminate cabinets?
A3: Yes, you can. You can paint laminate cabinets. You need to use special primers that stick well to glossy surfaces. Refacing is also a good option for laminate cabinets. You can cover them with new veneer.
Q4: How long does painted kitchen cabinets last?
A4: A well-done professional paint job can last 5-10 years or more. DIY paint jobs can last 2-5 years. Durability depends on prep work, paint quality, and how you use your kitchen.
Q5: Is cabinet refacing worth it?
A5: Yes, refacing is often worth it. It gives your kitchen a truly new look without the high cost and mess of a full remodel. It’s much faster than replacing all cabinets. It can also boost your home’s value.
Q6: Do I need to remove my cabinet doors for painting?
A6: Yes, always remove doors and drawer fronts for painting. This lets you paint all sides evenly. It helps prevent drips and brush marks. It also protects your kitchen from paint splatter.
Q7: What kind of paint is best for kitchen cabinets?
A7: High-quality cabinet or furniture paint is best. Look for paints that are durable and washable. Oil-based paints are tough but harder to clean up. Water-based acrylic-alkyd hybrid paints are a popular choice. They offer good durability and easy cleanup.
Q8: What is the difference between refinishing and refacing cabinets?
A8: Refinishing means keeping your current wood doors. You strip the old finish, sand, and apply new stain or sealer. Refacing means replacing your old doors and drawer fronts with new ones. You also cover the cabinet boxes with a matching veneer.
Q9: Can I change the style of my cabinets when redoing them?
A9: Yes, you can. When painting, you can update the color. When refacing, you can choose new door styles, colors, and materials. This totally changes the look of your cabinets.