how much does it cost for kitchen cabinet refacing
May 18, 2025
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Cost of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing: A Detailed Breakdown
Cabinet refacing is a budget-friendly alternative to full replacement, costing 50–75% less than new cabinets. Here's what you need to know:
Average Cost of Refacing
| Scope | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Small Kitchen (10–15 linear feet) | 1,500–1,500–1,500–4,500 |
| Medium Kitchen (15–25 linear feet) | 4,000–4,000–4,000–7,500 |
| Large Kitchen (25+ linear feet) | 7,500–7,500–7,500–12,000+ |
Cost Factors
Materials:
Laminate: 1,000–1,000–1,000–3,000 (most affordable).
Wood Veneer: 2,500–2,500–2,500–6,000 (natural wood look).
Rigid ThermoFoil (RTF): 1,500–1,500–1,500–5,000 (durable, moisture-resistant).
Labor: 1,000–1,000–1,000–4,500 (30–50% of total cost).
Extras:
New hardware: 2–2–2–20 per piece.
Soft-close hinges: 3–3–3–15 each.
Pull-out trays, lazy Susans: 100–100–100–500 each.
What's Included in Refacing?
Doors/Drawer Fronts: Replaced with new ones.
Veneer/Adhesive Film: Applied to cabinet frames.
Hinges/Handles: Typically replaced.
Trim/Molding: Added for a finished look.
When Refacing Makes Sense
Cabinets are structurally sound (no water damage, warping, or rot).
You want a modern look without changing the layout.
Budget is tight (refacing costs 3,000–3,000–3,000–9,000 vs. 10,000–10,000–10,000–25,000+ for new cabinets).
Pros vs. Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 50–75% cheaper than replacement | Doesn't fix poor layouts/damaged frames |
| Takes 3–5 days (vs. weeks) | Limited style/color options vs. custom |
| Eco-friendly (reduces waste) | Veneer can peel if poorly applied |
DIY vs. Professional Refacing
| Option | Cost | Skill Required |
|---|---|---|
| DIY | 1,000–1,000–1,000–3,000 | Moderate (prep, veneer application) |
| Professional | 4,000–4,000–4,000–12,000+ | None (full service) |
Geographic Cost Variations
High-Cost Areas (e.g., NYC, SF): +20–30% labor.
Low-Cost Areas (e.g., Midwest): Prices at the lower end of ranges.
Tips to Save Money
Reuse existing hardware (clean/polish it).
Choose stock doors (IKEA, Home Depot) over custom.
Skip extras like glass inserts or intricate molding.
Final Verdict: Refacing is ideal for kitchens with solid cabinet boxes but dated doors. For 100–100–100–300 per linear foot, you get a fresh, modern kitchen without the hassle of demolition.