Light Woods and Heavy Metal: Cabinet Refacing in Southern California

by Kelly Richardson
Face Your Kitchen Columnist

Expect nothing less than the homes of Hollywood to offer some of the hippest styles in cabinet refacing. Southern California has long been a trendsetter in fashion, entertainment, and athletics. And the homeowners here are making inexpensive but fashionable statements in the kitchen as well.

Ask any southern California resident and they'll tell you. If you're going to spend money refacing your cabinets, use a little inspiration. You can find contemporary wood surfaces and fashionable hardware in a So Cal kitchen. Maybe it reflects the care-free attitude and nonstop excitement for which the area is known or maybe it's because Californians are just receptive to new technologies and expect a lot of choices. Whatever the reason, it wouldn't hurt to know how they're refacing out on the West Coast.

So Cal Cabinet Refacing Tips. Take one part creativity, one part flash, and one part smart shopping and you have the makings of cabinet refacing in southern California.

• Pressure Sensitive Adhesive. PSA has been around a while, but this new technologies means a richer color scheme and super warp resistance.
• Rigid Thermo Foil. RTF technology used computer controlled heat and a thermo-fused melamine backing.
• Solid Wood Sheets. Available in a variety of hardwood and softwood models, this refacing material offers superior durability for cabinets.

Hi Tech Hardware. In southern California, going all out seems to be a way of life. Once you have your cabinet refacing project completed, turn your sites to the hardware. Custom hinges, pulls, and knobs complete the picture. Popular styles include treated metals, especially burnished and polished silvers.

Bottom line: Refacing allows you to save money on your project. And that means more money to choose higher quality materials.

About the Author
Kelly Richardson covers the home improvement scene in between his seasonal projects. His articles appear wherever intelligent interior design is valued.