Refurbishing your cabinets can be a great way to update your kitchen or bathroom area. If your cabinets are in good structural condition but aren’t looking great, then refurbishment can be a great solution to give your kitchen a new look without having to spend a lot on a complete overhaul.
This usually involves stripping your cabinets back, sanding them down, and repairing before adding a new finish. You can choose between leaving your cabinets with a natural wood finish, or updating them with a modern painted finish or using a new stain.
Cabinet Refinishing
Cabinet refinishing involves improving the look of your cabinets either repairing or changing the finish. As far as possible, the existing cabinets will be used.
The process will vary depending on your current finish and what look you want. For example, you could change your dark oak cabinets to a lighter stain or update your worn wooden cabinets with a fresh coat of paint. Refurbishing can be a great option for those looking to make a big difference to your kitchen.
Cabinet Refinishing vs Refacing
Sometimes these terms are confused; however, they are very different.
- Refurbishment – Repairing/Changing the finish of your cabinets.
- Refacing – Changing the doors and drawer fronts of your cabinets or covering up your cabinets with new materials.
- Replacement – Completely removing your cabinets and fitting new ones.
If your cabinet doors and frames are in good condition, refurbishment will probably be the best option. However, if your cabinets are in poor condition, then you may need to repair, reface, or replace.
Advantages of Refurbishing Kitchen Cabinets
- More affordable
By keeping your cabinets, the cost of materials and labor can be reduced. You won’t be having to pay for new cabinets as your existing ones will be used. Costs will depend on the size of the cabinets, condition of the surfaces, type of finish, and labor needed. - New Modern Look
Adding a new finish can completely transform your kitchen. You could go for a bright look with white and cream cabinets or add some contrast with a darker shade such as green, navy, or charcoal. You could also go for a natural wood finish if you like a warm traditional look. - Reduce waste
As you are using your existing cabinet structure, this can reduce waste. You won’t be having to do as much demolition.
Cabinet Refurbishment Process
To get a quality finish, you will need to take care with your preparation. If you simply paint over dirty and shiny cabinets, your finish won’t last long and could cause peeling and patchiness.
Clean and Inspect
You should clean off any grime, dust, and buildup from your cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and frames. Check there are no loose joints, scratches, water damage, or any other issues.
Remove Handles and Prepare Surfaces
Remove your cabinet doors, drawer fronts, handles, and hinges. Take note of which door goes where. Sand your surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the coating you are using. If you’re using laminate, veneer, or painted cabinets, you’ll need to follow the instructions.
Repair, Undercoat and Paint
Use an appropriate filler to fill any small dents and holes. If you’re painting your cabinets, you will need to use an appropriate undercoat. Then paint your cabinets with the recommended cabinet paint. If you’re staining your cabinets, you will need to remove/prep your existing finish. Then apply your new stain and protective finish.
Dry and Fit Handles
Leave each coat to dry and cure as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Fit your cabinet doors and handles carefully and avoid using them heavily until they’re fully ready.
Cost of Cabinet Refinishing
The cost of replacing your cabinets will depend on:
- Number of cabinet doors and drawers.
- Condition of the cabinets.
- Type of paint/stain/protective finish.
- Amount of sanding and repairs.
- Whether you’re using a professional.
To get an accurate cost, ask for a written quote detailing what preparation will be done, what materials will be used, labor costs, repairs, and any extra charges. This will make it easier to compare like-for-like quotes.
Should I Use a Professional?
If you’re doing a simple refurbishment, then DIY can be a great option. As long as you have the right tools, time, and space, you should be fine. However, if your cabinets are in very poor condition, have complex shapes, or need specialist prep, then using a professional could be a better option.
They can also help you choose durable finishes to give you a uniform look on your doors, drawers, and cabinet frames. Ask to see examples of their work. Ask how they will prepare the surface and how they will protect the area.
Final Thoughts
Refurbishing your cabinets can be a great way to update your kitchen or bathroom. If you take the time to prepare your cabinets with the right materials, you can get a great finish.
Before you start, take a look at your cabinets and decide what finish you would like. A well-planned project can help you create a cleaner and more modern space.
