Get Ready for Cabinet Refacing

by Allison Beatty
Face Your Kitchen Columnist

One day soon the remodeling contractors will arrive to reface your kitchen cabinets. As the excitement builds before the big day, follow these steps to make sure you're really ready.

Clean Out Kitchen Cabinets

Start by taking a visual survey of the kitchen cabinets. Since the contractor will be removing the door front and drawers, it is wise to sort through your cabinets and remove most items. This is particularly true for:

• Breakables
• Important papers you will need to use during the project
• Kitchen utensils you will need to use
• Children's homework assignments, calendars and schedules, etc

Get Ready For Other Kitchen Design Projects

Many homeowners complete other kitchen design projects during a cabinet refacing project. They may replace the kitchen countertop, sink and faucet, or the floor. If you are doing other projects, take time to plan for them. For example, when replacing the kitchen countertop, look for a material that will fit your style -- granite for a sleek, high-end look in a gourmet kitchen; laminate for a durable yet affordable look in a more modest kitchen design.

Make Paint Decisions That Boost Kitchen Design

When hiring painting contractors to revamp your kitchen walls, plan early for the color and treatment you want. Visit a paint store or look at online paint sites for advice on the colors to use and whether to add a faux finish. Also make sure your paint choices blend with your cabinet refacing selections.

Take Pictures of Your Kitchen Design

The final step to take before the contractors arrive involves a camera. Take some "before" pictures of your kitchen cabinets and overall kitchen design. Once the work is completed, you'll be hard pressed to remember what your old kitchen looked like.

About the Author
Allison E. Beatty is a syndicated real estate writer. She has been a writer of home improvement columns for 15 years. Her articles have appeared in numerous national newspapers and magazines, and on home improvement web sites.