Don't Race to Replace if You Haven't Considered Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
Renovators Place Columnist
Oct 08, 2009
There's a time in nearly every kitchen's life when cabinet replacement becomes the best option. But since it can easily cost tens of thousands of dollars (and think of all those take-out meals you'll buy during the renovation process), shouldn't you be perfectly sure replacement is the way to go? If you have any doubts, consider for a moment kitchen cabinet refacing. Cabinet refacing can be an easier, less expensive, and less invasive solution to your cabinet woes.
About the Author
Ellen Foster is a freelance writer and teacher. She has taught students aged five to forty-five.
What Does Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Entail?
The name practically says it all--cabinet refacing entails removing the cabinetry's former face (doors and drawer fronts), installing new doors and fronts, and then covering the existing frames with wood or plastic veneer to match. Although kitchen size is certainly a factor, the entire process generally takes a few days and requires one or two craftsmen.Plastic Laminates, Rigid Thermofoils, or Wood Veneers
Wood veneers are the champagne of cabinet refacing. Unarguably, wood is the richest, most beautiful--and most expensive choice. Expect to pay ten to twenty-five percent more for wood than for rigid thermofoils (RTF) and laminates. Laminates come in an array of colors and wood-like appearances, but they lack the malleability of RTF. In addition to easy shaping and molding that permits more intricate cabinet door styles, RTF has a very convincing wood-like appearance--as long as you don't get too close.Cabinet Refacing Versus Cabinet Replacing
All cost-concerns aside, the most important thing to consider in the replace versus reface question is the state of your current cabinetry. If you've got quality-built cabinets that have stood and will continue to stand the test of time, there's no reason to replace them. Reface them!About the Author
Ellen Foster is a freelance writer and teacher. She has taught students aged five to forty-five.
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