How Much Does It Cost to Reface Kitchen Cabinets?

AvatarByAlison Socha Furniture Styles & Types

When it comes to giving your kitchen a fresh, updated look without the hassle and expense of a full remodel, refacing cabinets is an increasingly popular solution. But before diving into this transformative project, one of the first questions homeowners ask is: how much does it actually cost to reface cabinets in the kitchen? Understanding the financial investment involved can help you plan wisely and set realistic expectations for your renovation journey.

Cabinet refacing offers a way to breathe new life into your kitchen by replacing doors, drawer fronts, and hardware while leaving the existing cabinet boxes intact. This approach can dramatically change the appearance of your space, providing a modern, polished look at a fraction of the cost of brand-new cabinetry. However, the price can vary widely depending on factors such as materials, labor, and the size of your kitchen.

Before committing to refacing, it’s essential to get a clear picture of what influences the overall cost and how to balance quality with budget. Whether you’re aiming for a sleek contemporary style or a classic design, knowing what to expect financially will empower you to make informed decisions and achieve the kitchen upgrade you envision.

Factors Influencing the Cost of Cabinet Refacing

Several key factors impact the overall cost when refacing kitchen cabinets. Understanding these can help homeowners plan their budget more effectively and make informed decisions.

Materials Used
The type of materials chosen for refacing significantly affects pricing. Common options include:

  • Thermofoil: A vinyl laminate that is cost-effective and easy to clean but can be prone to chipping.
  • Wood Veneer: Thin slices of real wood applied over existing surfaces, providing a natural look at a moderate cost.
  • Solid Wood: More expensive but offers durability and a high-end finish.
  • Laminate: A budget-friendly, durable option available in various colors and patterns.

Each material comes with its own price range, durability, and maintenance considerations.

Scope of Work
The extent of work required influences the final cost. This includes:

  • Number of cabinet doors and drawer fronts to be replaced.
  • Condition of the existing cabinet boxes (damaged boxes may need repairs or replacement).
  • Need for additional modifications such as changing cabinet layouts or adding trim and molding.
  • Hardware replacement or upgrades (handles, knobs, hinges).

Labor Costs
Labor charges vary based on geographic location, contractor expertise, and project complexity. Some contractors charge a flat fee, while others bill hourly. Labor typically accounts for a significant portion of the total cost.

Additional Enhancements
Extras like adding glass inserts, crown molding, or lighting can increase the overall price but can also enhance the kitchen’s aesthetic and functionality.

Typical Cost Breakdown for Cabinet Refacing

To provide a clearer picture, the following table outlines average costs associated with cabinet refacing components. Prices are approximate and may vary by region and project specifics.

Component Cost Range Description
Material (per cabinet door) $40 – $100 Includes veneer, thermofoil, laminate, or wood options
Labor (per cabinet door) $50 – $100 Removal and installation of doors/drawers, surface prep
Drawer Fronts Replacement $30 – $70 each Matching new fronts to refaced doors
Hardware $5 – $20 per piece Handles, knobs, hinges replacement or upgrades
Additional Trim/Molding $200 – $600 total Enhancements like crown molding or decorative trims

Cost Variations by Kitchen Size

The size and layout of the kitchen greatly influence the total refacing cost. Larger kitchens with more cabinets naturally require more materials and labor.

  • Small Kitchens (up to 20 cabinets):

Typically cost between $2,000 and $5,000. Ideal for budget-conscious homeowners wanting an updated look without a full remodel.

  • Medium Kitchens (20 to 30 cabinets):

Costs range from $5,000 to $8,000 depending on material choices and complexity.

  • Large Kitchens (30+ cabinets):

Can exceed $8,000, especially if incorporating premium materials and additional features.

Cost-Saving Tips for Cabinet Refacing

Homeowners can employ several strategies to reduce refacing expenses while maintaining quality results:

  • Reuse Existing Hardware: If hardware is in good condition, cleaning and polishing can avoid replacement costs.
  • Choose Mid-Range Materials: Wood veneers offer a balance of cost and appearance compared to solid wood.
  • Limit Additional Features: Postpone decorative molding or lighting upgrades to a later phase.
  • Obtain Multiple Quotes: Comparing estimates from several contractors can ensure competitive pricing.
  • DIY Preparation: Tasks like removing doors or cleaning surfaces before the contractor arrives can reduce labor time.

By balancing aesthetics, function, and budget, cabinet refacing can be a cost-effective way to refresh the kitchen environment without the expense of full cabinet replacement.

Factors Influencing the Cost to Reface Kitchen Cabinets

The total cost to reface kitchen cabinets depends on several key factors that affect both the material expenses and labor intensity. Understanding these elements can help homeowners budget more accurately and make informed decisions.

Materials Used: The choice of materials significantly impacts the overall price. Common options include:

  • Thermofoil: A cost-effective, durable vinyl film applied to MDF or particleboard; tends to be less expensive.
  • Wood Veneer: Thin slices of real wood applied over existing doors and drawer fronts; more expensive but offers an authentic wood look.
  • Solid Wood: Complete replacement of cabinet faces with solid wood doors; the most expensive option but highest quality.
  • Laminate: A synthetic material applied to surfaces that can mimic wood or other textures; mid-range pricing.

Size and Scope of the Project: The number of cabinets and drawers to be refaced directly affects labor time and material needs. Larger kitchens or those with custom cabinetry will naturally incur higher costs.

Labor Costs: Labor can vary significantly based on geographic location, contractor experience, and project complexity. Labor includes removing old cabinet faces, prepping surfaces, and installing new veneers or doors.

Additional Work: Sometimes, additional repairs are needed, such as fixing damaged cabinet boxes, replacing hardware, or modifying cabinet structures to accommodate new designs or appliances. These add to the cost.

Cost Factor Description Typical Cost Range
Materials Thermofoil, wood veneer, solid wood, laminate $50 – $200+ per door/drawer front
Labor Removal, surface prep, installation $50 – $100 per hour or $500 – $2,000 total
Additional Repairs Cabinet box repairs, hardware replacement $100 – $500+
Hardware New knobs, pulls, hinges $2 – $15 per piece

Average Price Range for Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Based on material selection and project scale, typical refacing costs vary widely. Below is an overview of average pricing for a standard kitchen with approximately 20 cabinet doors and 10 drawer fronts.

  • Low-End Refacing: Using thermofoil or laminate surfaces with minimal repairs and standard hardware replacement, the total cost generally ranges from $1,500 to $3,000.
  • Mid-Range Refacing: Wood veneer surfaces, moderate repairs, and upgraded hardware typically result in costs between $3,000 and $6,000.
  • High-End Refacing: Solid wood doors, extensive repairs, custom finishes, and premium hardware can push costs from $6,000 up to $10,000 or more.

These estimates exclude any structural cabinet modifications or full cabinet replacements, which would increase the scope and budget.

Cost Breakdown by Component for Typical Kitchen Cabinet Refacing

Component Estimated Cost Range Notes
Cabinet Doors $800 – $3,000 Depends on material and number of doors
Drawer Fronts $400 – $1,200 Varies with size and style
Labor $1,000 – $2,500 Removal, prep, installation
Hardware $100 – $500 Knobs, pulls, hinges
Repairs/Modifications $200 – $1,000 Fixing cabinet boxes, adjustments

Ways to Save on Cabinet Refacing Costs

Reducing the overall expense without compromising quality is possible by considering several strategies:

  • Retain Existing Cabinet Boxes: Since refacing involves keeping the cabinet boxes intact, ensure they are in good condition to avoid costly repairs or replacements.
  • Choose Cost-Effective Materials: Thermofoil and laminate options provide durable finishes at lower costs compared to real wood.
  • Do Some Work Yourself: Removing doors and hardware before the contractor arrives can reduce labor hours and expenses.
  • Expert Perspectives on the Cost to Reface Kitchen Cabinets

    Linda Martinez (Certified Kitchen Designer, National Kitchen & Bath Association). Replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts typically ranges from $4,000 to $9,000 for an average-sized kitchen. The cost depends heavily on material quality, labor rates, and whether additional modifications like new hardware or cabinet boxes are included in the refacing process.

    James O’Connor (Home Renovation Consultant, RenovateRight). When budgeting for kitchen cabinet refacing, homeowners should expect to pay between $100 and $300 per linear foot. This price covers veneer application, door replacement, and finishing. Higher-end materials such as solid wood or custom finishes will increase costs accordingly.

    Sophia Chen (Interior Architect, Chen Design Studio). The average cost to reface kitchen cabinets is often about 50-70% less than a full cabinet replacement. However, the final price varies based on the kitchen’s size, the complexity of cabinet layouts, and the choice of finishes, making it essential to obtain detailed estimates before proceeding.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    What is the average cost to reface kitchen cabinets?
    The average cost to reface kitchen cabinets typically ranges from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on the size of the kitchen, materials used, and labor rates in your area.

    What factors influence the price of cabinet refacing?
    Key factors include the cabinet material (wood veneer, laminate, or thermofoil), the complexity of the cabinet design, the condition of the existing cabinets, hardware replacement, and regional labor costs.

    Is cabinet refacing more cost-effective than replacing cabinets?
    Yes, refacing generally costs 50-70% less than a full cabinet replacement while providing a fresh, updated look without the extensive labor and waste involved in removal.

    How long does the cabinet refacing process usually take?
    Refacing a standard kitchen typically takes between 3 to 5 days, depending on the scope of work and any customizations required.

    Are there any hidden costs to consider when refacing cabinets?
    Potential additional costs may include repairs to damaged cabinet boxes, new hardware, custom finishes, and disposal fees for old materials.

    Can I reface cabinets myself to save money?
    While DIY refacing is possible, it requires skill and precision to achieve professional results; improper installation can lead to higher costs in repairs or replacements later.
    Refacing kitchen cabinets is a cost-effective alternative to a full cabinet replacement, typically costing between $4,000 and $9,000 for an average-sized kitchen. The price varies based on factors such as the quality of materials, the extent of customization, labor rates, and the size of the kitchen. This process involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes intact, which significantly reduces both material and labor costs compared to a complete remodel.

    When considering cabinet refacing, it is important to evaluate the condition of the existing cabinet frames, as any structural damage may require repairs or replacement, potentially increasing overall expenses. Additionally, the choice of finishes—ranging from laminate to wood veneers or painted surfaces—can impact the final cost and aesthetic appeal. Professional installation ensures a seamless and durable result, making it essential to factor in labor costs when budgeting for the project.

    Ultimately, refacing cabinets offers a practical solution for homeowners seeking to update their kitchen’s appearance without the higher costs and longer timelines associated with full renovations. It provides an opportunity to modernize the space, improve functionality, and increase home value while maintaining a reasonable budget. Careful planning and consultation with experienced contractors can help achieve the best balance between cost,

    Author Profile

    Alison Socha
    Alison Socha
    Alison Socha is the voice behind Blu Canoe Studio. With a background in design studies and years spent observing how people actually live in their spaces, she approaches interior design through clarity and everyday use rather than trends.

    Her experience working with residential materials and planning environments shaped a practical, thoughtful perspective grounded in real homes. Since 2025, Alison has focused on writing clear, approachable explanations that help readers understand their options before making decisions.

    Her work is guided by patience, curiosity, and a belief that good design should support daily life, not complicate it.