Refacing your cabinets is a popular method for giving your kitchen a fresh look without the expense and hassle of a full renovation. This process involves taking out the cabinet doors and drawer fronts which are then covered with new veneer or laminate to match. Beginning a cabinet refacing project is a great weekend plan but understanding the potential issues you might encounter is crucial. By being aware of common problems associated with refacing kitchen cabinets and knowing how to address them, you can ensure a smoother refacing process and achieve a more satisfying outcome.
Before we can get to those tips and tricks, we need to discuss if kitchen refacing is an option for your space.
Is Refacing an Option for All Kitchen Cabinets?
While this method is the most cost-effective method of sprucing up the kitchen, it’s not suitable for all cabinets. Firstly, cabinets must be structurally sound to be good candidates for refacing. If your cabinets have severe water damage, are falling apart, or have significant structural issues, you will want to avoid refacing them as it is only masking the larger issue. If you do realize that your cabinets are not in a structurally sound state, we would advise a full cabinet replacement as this ensures the longevity of your kitchen.
But, if your cabinets are solid, just needing some new life, then this is a great option to give you a remodeled look for less than completely new cabinets!
Cabinet Refacing Mistakes
Kitchen cabinet refacing is a great beginner DIY project to make it look like a new kitchen. But, like any home improvement project, the secret is in the details and knowing what to expect. Over the years, our team of experts has discovered the most problematic areas in regard to refacing your kitchen cabinets. And so, below we will look at these along with some solutions.
If, however, you are thinking that this process is a bit much, don’t worry! We are an expert refacing company and would be happy to assist! That though will be discussed later. Let’s dive into the topic and hopefully save you a lot of trouble!
Common Problems with Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
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Color Matching Issues
One of the main problems with refacing kitchen cabinets is finding the right color match between new surfaces and existing kitchen elements. Many people don’t realize just how many colors they have in the space and trying to tie them all together can be a big challenge. This is why we recommend working with a design expert who understands color theory. It is truly amazing how having the right colors makes a massive difference in the appearance of the space.
Make sure that ALL of the colors work in the kitchen before applying the veneer. Most beginner DIY people, unfortunately, apply the veneer only to realize too late that it is the wrong color.
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Doors and Drawers That Stop Working
Sometimes, doors and drawers may not function properly after refacing, often due to improper installation or poor material choices. It’s important to use high-quality materials and ensure that the installation is done correctly. Remember the gold rule: you get what you pay for.
If this is your first time doing this kind of project, start off with one cabinet front and take your time with it. Don’t rush and make sure that you are not obstructing anything that might hinder the cabinet from operating normally.
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Dealing With Cabinet Damage
One of the most disheartening things that you can discover while talking about your cabinet doors to refinish them is structural damage. This can be from water damage or generic wear and tear. If you refinish cabinets that are not structurally sound, know that all of your hard work will probably be undone. If the bigger problem is not dealt with then you risk the cabinet doors falling off or worse.
Always take the time to inspect the integrity of your cabinets before beginning this project. If you do discover significant damage, the better call might be for a complete kitchen remodel. While this is more expensive of course, it is better to have solid cabinet frames, and such as this will ensure a happier home in the long run.
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Underestimating the Costs
Unexpected costs can arise if hidden problems are discovered during the refacing process, or if the materials selected are of higher quality than initially planned. To avoid surprises, our team at Southwest Kitchen provides detailed quotes and comprehensive assessments to uncover any potential issues before work begins. This approach helps manage your budget more effectively.
If you are doing this yourself, however, always make sure to over-estimate the cost. For example, if you need 25 square feet of veneer, estimate 30 for your budget. Trust us, you would much rather have money left over in your wallet than not.
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Being Too Trendy
Choosing trendy designs can be tempting, but these may quickly become outdated. To ensure your kitchen remains timeless, consider choosing classic styles that will still look fresh and appealing years from now. Kitchen renovations involve a lot of work so ensuring that you won’t have to be updating the cabinet hardware or existing cabinet boxes often is important.
Further Challenges: Avoid Mistakes in Matching Colors and Styles
One common issue with refacing is the difficulty in matching new materials with existing ones. Color discrepancies can disrupt the uniform look of your kitchen, making some parts seem out of place. Instead of updating your kitchen, you might make it worse! Refacing jobs need to be considered of the existing colors of the space. Our cabinet refacing company has the expert tips to avoid this pitfall!
Tips to Achieve a Seamless Look
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Get Samples
Always get samples of the new materials and compare them to your kitchen lighting. We also suggest looking at the samples at different times of day to ensure that you are always happy with the selection.
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Consult Professionals
Professionals like our expert design team at Southwest Kitchen can provide advice on materials that best match your current setup.
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Consider a Full Reface
If exact matches are impossible, consider refacing all visible parts to ensure consistency.
Limited Layout Options for Your Cabinet Doors
While this is a great way to update the look of the space, it does nothing for the actual layout of the space. If you are unhappy with your kitchen, you need to ask yourself what about this space is making you unhappy.
If it is simply the look of it, refacing may be the best option. However, if you realize that the actual problem is the layout, then you will not want to focus on the appearance. For example, if it has always bothered you that the cup cabinet is ever too slightly high, making it look more stylish will not address the bigger issue. This is one of the problems with refacing kitchen cabinets, as it primarily enhances the appearance but does not solve functional issues such as layout.
If, however, you are not wanting to do a complete remodel, don’t worry. There are two other options to help your space become perfect.
Alternatives for Homeowners
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Partial Replacement
Consider replacing some cabinets to adjust the layout and then reface the remaining units for a cohesive look.
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Custom Additions
Adding new features like an island can enhance functionality without altering existing cabinetry.
Cons of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
Like any project, there are pros and cons of refacing. One of the biggest pros, as established, to refacing is the fact that it is a cheap way to change the look of the space. However, you might be better off with new cabinet doors or just replacing cabinets entirely depending on your situation.
Does Not Fix the Layout
If the issue with your kitchen is the layout, this method will not help with that. If you are trying to decide to reface or replace cabinets, take the time to evaluate the current flow of the kitchen.
Does not Make Cabinets Stronger
At the end of the day, you are only changing the cabinet surfaces. If you are thinking that the cabinets are looking a bit damaged or wobbly, refacing is not the right decision for your cabinets. As we’ve said before, always think about the longevity. If refacing is just covering up a larger issue, fix that problem first then worry about the appearance.
Steps to Take When Doing a Kitchen Cabinet Refacing to Existing Cabinets
Assess the Condition of Existing Cabinets: Before deciding on refacing, thoroughly evaluate the condition of your existing cabinets. This step is crucial to avoid wasting money on refacing cabinets that are too worn out or structurally unsound. When you are inspecting, also take the time to ensure that all of your cabinet shelves are level.
Understanding & Choosing High-quality Materials: The quality of materials used for refacing significantly affects the durability and appearance of your kitchen. Always go for materials that offer longevity and complement your home’s style. The last thing you will want is to choose a cheaper material that will need to be replaced shortly after completing the project.
Hire a Professional Refacing Contractor: Hiring experts like our team at Southwest Kitchen ensures that your refacing project is handled professionally. Experienced contractors can foresee potential issues and offer solutions that might not be apparent to the average homeowner.
5 Tips for the Right Cabinet Refacing Process
- Evaluate Your Cabinet’s Condition
If you are wondering why we keep saying this, it’s for the simple point to emphasize how important it is!
- Invest in Quality Hardware
The hardware you choose, like cabinet hinges, knobs, and pulls, plays a crucial role in the functionality and look of your refaced cabinets. High-quality hardware not only enhances the appearance but also ensures your cabinet doors operate smoothly and last longer.
- Enhance Functionality with Added Features
Consider adding organizational features like pull-out drawers, Lazy Susans, or spice racks when you starting the refacing process. Depending on the size of your kitchen, this can be a great way to either optimize the space or simply make cooking and baking easier!
- Test for Lead-Based Paint in Older Cabinets
If your home was built before 1978, there’s a chance your cabinets may have lead-based paint. Before sanding or disturbing the paint, get a professional to test for lead. This is crucial to ensure the safety of your renovation project.
- Maintain Your Refaced Cabinets
Proper maintenance is key to ensuring your refaced cabinets look great for years. Regularly clean them with a mild detergent and avoid harsh chemicals. Check and tighten the hardware periodically to keep everything working properly.
Looking for help or perhaps someone to do a complete remodel? Look No Further than Southwest Kitchen & Bath!
While our team specializes in cabinet refacing, we also have a talented kitchen design team that can help with anything, be it changing the kitchen layout or simply breathing new life into the space by painting the existing cabinets. If you’re experiencing problems refacing kitchen cabinets, we can address those concerns with our expert solutions, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.
Choosing Southwest Kitchen & Bath means opting for a team that provides high-quality materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and personalized service. Whether you’re looking to modernize your kitchen or enhance its functionality, we can deliver the results you desire, ensuring satisfaction with every project. Furthermore, when you work with us, know that the results will last for years to come! Rest assured that we will make your kitchen dreams come true.
For more information on our services or to schedule a consultation, contact us at Southwest Kitchen & Bath. We’re eager to help you create the kitchen of your dreams!