Cabinet Refacing Educational Content
ABOUT CABINET REFACING
Cabinets have a big impact on the look of your kitchen. If you’re considering a kitchen update but aren’t quite sure you want to take on the expense of a full-scale renovation, cabinet refacing (along with some other strategic, small upgrades) might be exactly what you need.
Refacing the cabinets is a great way to update the look of your kitchen and save some money on the whole project. For a cabinet refacing project to work well, your kitchen’s existing layout needs to work well. Your cabinet boxes also need to be in good shape.
PLANNING CABINET REFACING
Consult your contractor to find the right cabinet and drawer options for your space. There are so many cabinet door and drawer front styles on the market. You’ll also need to select a color and finish as well as hardware, like pulls and handles.
Cabinet and drawer styles range from sleek and modern to rustic and cozy. Open shelving creates a more modern look, while glass panel doors can add a rustic, homey feel. Look for examples of what you like best, and bring those images to your contractor. These visual examples will help your contractor understand what you want from the project.
A refacing project is also a good time to update the storage options your cabinets offer. Roll-out shelves and cabinet dividers, for example, can help you keep the kitchen tidy and organized.
REFACING PROCESS
After you’ve decided on the design choices, your contractor will take measurements and order materials.
The first step in the actual refacing work is to remove the drawers, doors, and drawer fronts. If you’re changing the color and style of the cabinets, the crew will then apply a wood or laminate veneer to the cabinet boxes. The next step is to install the new cabinet doors and drawer fronts.
Drawer pulls, door handles, and molding are usually also upgraded during cabinet refacing projects. Updated hardware adds the finishing touch to your kitchen’s new style.
HIRING A CABINET REFACING CONTRACTOR
Hiring a qualified and experienced contractor is important. Make sure your contractor is fully insured and has all state-required licenses. Before you sign a contract for the job, make sure you understand the project’s scope and what the contractor will and won’t be able to do.