Refacing Blows the Doors Off New Cabinets

by Gabriel Traverso
Face Your Kitchen Columnist

When you sit down to compare the cost of installing new cabinets in your kitchen versus refacing the ones you have the numbers tell a simple story: refacing is the cheaper solution.

Reface or Replace: The Cost of Kitchen Cabinets

When homeowners turn their remodeling plans to the kitchen the first thought is often, "these cabinets are the first things to go." The fact of the matter is that when you add up the cost and trouble of completely replacing your kitchen cabinets your remodeling budget may leave little room for anything else. Refacing your cabinets saves you the bill of high kitchen cabinet prices and leaves money for other key remodeling items such as appliances, counter-tops, or new tile.

Breaking Down Your Kitchen Cabinet Project

When you get down to replacing your cabinets you're looking at a hefty job. While it does afford you the opportunity to change the layout of your kitchen, is it worth the cost? Here's how a typical project breaks down:

• Demolition: tearing out existing cabinets.
• Cost of new kitchen cabinets
• Cost of installation of new cabinets
• Rewiring electric as needed, as well as rearranging your plumbing.
• New counter-tops as a result of replacing your cabinets.
• The possible need for a new floor due to damage, or adding structural items such as a pony wall.

Remodeling Your Home on a Budget?

Replacing the cabinets in your kitchen could open up a can of worms that can only cost you more money. Most homeowners don't have an unlimited budget when it comes to home improvement projects -- you have to make the most of your money. Refacing your cabinets can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $4,000. Can you afford not to save money? Check around with a few contractors and get quotes for both projects. You'll soon find that the cost of replacing kitchen cabinets far outweighs the money you can save by refacing instead.

About the Author
Gabriel Traverso is a freelance writer, professional musician, and an artist. He resides with his family in Reno, NV.