By Kitchen Cabinets and Beyond · Published September 12, 2016 · Updated August 27, 2019
Cabinet refacing is fairly affordable and can provide the look of custom cabinets at a fraction of the cost. It means an update on the doors, repainting the exterior, and placing a thin layer of veneer on the cabinet box. It is a popular way to spruce up old cabinetry. Unfortunately not all cabinets can be refaced. In some cases the best solution for your kitchen remodel is completely replacing your cabinets.To be sure you should consult with professional kitchen cabinet remodelers in Mission Viejo CA. Which route is best for you and your kitchen aspirations? Here are some factors that make replacement a better option.
If you moved into a home with low-grade cabinets (where the structure of the cabinet is comply made of particle board), refacing won’t be a viable option. You need good “bones” to work with, even if you plan to reinforce existing frames. So in this case, it would make sense to fully replace kitchen cabinets and bulk up the interior structures.
You cannot blame customers who get behind durable products. In the past, metal cabinets and frames were a popular choice. But sadly those materials are difficult to reface. Odds are, if you currently have metal cabinets you want to change, then replacement might be the best option. However, have a professional check them over, just to be sure. And if you like the look of metal, there is an option for cabinet doors. There is a treatment that looks just like stainless steel without the commitment to actual metal cabinets.
Even substantial, hardwood cabinets are not invincible. Though they are made of quality stuff, things like mold, rot, and water damage could still be an issue. Perhaps it was chewed by your dog, or demolished by termites. You might have serious swelling, or wood that is simply splitting into shambles. This structural damage could get to the point where it is beyond salvaging. Or you cabinets might have a permanent musty or foul smell. You cannot resurface cabinets in this condition. However, with professional help you might be able to reface some, and replace the rest. This option will lower your final costs.
Refacing is best if you plan to retain, more or less, the layout of your kitchen. However, if your kitchen remodel changes the configuration of your appliances, then you need to change your cabinets as well. Granted, not many homeowners move the kitchen to a different location in the house. So, in most cases where some of the old kitchen cabinets will remain, homeowners choose a mix of refacing and replacing.
Cabinets in the kitchen see constant use, and you don’t want to wrestle with them day in and day out. What if the box is in such bad shape you can’t mount new hinges or re-drill new holes? In some cases you can repair a loose handle or a drawer that is off track. If the drawers or doors of your cabinets don’t open without difficulty, or the pulls and handles can no longer be secured in place, then it might be time for replacements.
Kitchen cabinets, depending on use and location, can last for upwards of 50 years. So when remodeling, you need to pick cabinets with that in mind. In Mission Viejo, CA we can help you determine which route, whether replacing or refacing, is best for your style and budget.
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