Reface or Replace?

When a kitchen starts to look dated, cabinets are often among the first things homeowners want to update. The big question is whether to reface or replace them. Both options can beautifully transform the space, but they differ significantly in time, cost, and results.

Refacing involves keeping the cabinet boxes and replacing doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. It's typically less expensive than a full replacement and can be completed more quickly with less disruption. Refacing works well if your cabinet boxes are structurally sound and you like the layout of your kitchen.

Replacement means ripping out your current cabinets and installing new ones. This allows you to update your layout, improve storage, and potentially select higher-quality materials. The downside is that a full replacement is more expensive and takes a longer time to complete.