Refacing kitchen cabinets has become one of the most popular ways to refresh a kitchen without undergoing a full renovation. Instead of replacing your entire cabinetry, refacing gives your kitchen a brand-new look by updating only the visible surfaces—saving time, money, and hassle. But how much does kitchen cabinet refacing really cost, and is it worth the investment? This guide breaks down everything you need to know before starting your project.
For more cost-saving home improvement ideas and renovation tips, visit Builtup Home—a reliable resource for transforming your home on a budget.
What Is Kitchen Cabinet Refacing?
Kitchen cabinet refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and exterior surfaces while keeping the original cabinet boxes intact. New veneers, hardware, and sometimes hinges are installed to completely change the appearance of your kitchen cabinets.
This method is ideal for homeowners who have structurally sound cabinets but want an updated, modern aesthetic without paying for a full cabinet replacement.
How Much Does Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Cost?
The average cost to reface kitchen cabinets ranges from $4,000 to $10,000, depending on several factors. While this may still feel like an investment, it’s significantly more affordable than replacing cabinets entirely, which can cost anywhere from $10,000 to $25,000 or more.
Typical Cost Breakdown
- Labor: $2,000 – $5,000
- Materials: $1,500 – $3,500
- Hardware (hinges, handles, knobs): $100 – $500
- Veneer or laminate materials: $1,000 – $2,000
Total cost varies based on kitchen size, materials, and customization.
Factors That Affect Refacing Costs
1. Kitchen Size
Larger kitchens require more material and labor, increasing overall cost.
2. Material Choice
Common options include:
- Laminate: Affordable and durable
- Rigid Thermofoil (RTF): Smooth, moisture-resistant finish
- Wood veneer: Real wood look at a lower cost than solid wood
- Hardwood doors: Premium and long-lasting but more costly
3. Door Style
More complex designs such as shaker-style or raised-panel doors cost more than flat or slab doors.
4. Hardware Upgrades
Adding new knobs, handles, or soft-close hinges can increase the final price but enhances functionality.
5. Additional Custom Features
Optional upgrades include:
- Glass-paneled doors
- Crown molding
- Under-cabinet lighting
- Open shelving conversions
These additions improve aesthetics and usability but also raise costs.
Is Refacing Worth It?
If your cabinets are structurally sound and you want a fresh, modern look without replacing them entirely, cabinet refacing is absolutely worth the investment.
Key Benefits
- Cost-effective compared to full replacement
- Less waste since existing cabinets remain
- Faster installation—usually done in 3–5 days
- Minimal disruption to your home
- New look without major construction
Homeowners often choose refacing when they desire a style update but want to keep countertops, plumbing, or the existing layout intact.
Ways to Save Money on Cabinet Refacing
- Choose laminate or RTF instead of wood veneer
- Keep your existing hardware if it’s in good condition
- Avoid structural changes to the cabinet layout
- Only reface the most visible areas
- Compare quotes from multiple contractors
For more budget-friendly remodeling tips, check out Builtup Home.
Refacing vs. Refinishing vs. Replacing
Refacing
- Best for: structurally sound cabinets needing a full visual upgrade
- Cost: Moderate
- Results: Dramatic transformation
Refinishing
- Best for: solid wood cabinets needing a new color or stain
- Cost: Lower
- Results: Good but limited to the existing door style
Replacing
- Best for: damaged, worn-out, or poorly designed cabinets
- Cost: Highest
- Results: Complete customization and layout changes
Final Thoughts
Kitchen cabinet refacing is a budget-friendly way to give your kitchen a fresh, modern appearance without the cost and inconvenience of a full renovation. With average costs ranging from $4,000 to $10,000, it strikes the perfect balance between affordability and visual impact.