How Does Cabinet Refacing Work?
Jun 24, 2026How long does it take to reface cabinets, and what's really involved in the process?
Key Takeaways:
- Cabinet refacing replaces cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and exterior surfaces while keeping the existing cabinet boxes in place.
- Refacing delivers a dramatically updated kitchen appearance with less mess and substantially less cost than full kitchen remodel.
- Unlike cabinet painting, refacing allows you to change both the style and functionality of your kitchen with new doors, hardware, and storage upgrades. Longer-lasting finishes with refacing are also a bonus compared to painting, which can peel and chip easily.
If you’re dreaming of updating your kitchen but don’t love the idea of weeks (or months!) of demolition, dust, and disruption, cabinet refacing may be exactly what you’re looking for.
But what does “reface cabinets” mean, and how does it differ from other kitchen remodeling options. The answer is surprisingly simple: Cabinet refacing gives your kitchen a completely new look by updating the visible surfaces of your existing cabinets while keeping the cabinet framework that’s already in place.
Here’s a look at Improveit’s cabinet refacing process start to finish so you can make an informed decision on your way to a beautiful, affordable kitchen update!
What does Reface CAbinets Mean?
If you’ve heard the phrase “reface cabinets” and aren’t exactly sure what it means, you’re not alone.
To reface cabinets means replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, hinges, hardware, and exterior cabinet surfaces while keeping the existing cabinet boxes in place. Rather than removing all your cabinets and starting over (an expensive, time-consuming, dusty process), refacing transforms the appearance of your cabinets using new materials that match your desired style.
Think of it as giving your kitchen cabinetry a brand new exterior while preserving the solid structure underneath.
For homeowners who like their existing kitchen layout, cabinet refacing can provide the look of a major remodel without the extensive demolition associated with full cabinet replacement.
So How Does Cabinet Refacing Work?
As mentioned, cabinet refacing is a kitchen remodeling process that replaces the doors, drawer fronts, and exterior surfaces of your existing cabinets while keeping the cabinet boxes intact.
Because the cabinet boxes remain in place, refacing works best when your current cabinet layout functions well and the cabinet structure is still in good condition.
The result is a kitchen that looks brand new without the mess and expense of tearing everything out and starting over. Here’s how the Improveit team moves through the process step-by-step:
Step 1: Design Your New Kitchen
Every project starts with an in-home design consultation. During this appointment, you’ll explore door styles, colors, hardware options, countertops, backsplashes, and accessories.
Many homeowners are surprised by how much flexibility cabinet refacing offers. Whether you love a modern look, a classic shaker style, or something more traditional, there are countless combinations to choose from.
Step 2: Remove Existing Doors & Drawer Fronts
Once your project begins, your old cabinet doors, drawer fronts, hinges, and hardware are removed.
This creates a blank canvas while preserving the existing cabinet framework that forms the foundation of your kitchen.
Step 3: Reface the Cabinet Boxes
Next, the exposed cabinet surfaces are covered with a durable furniture-quality veneer that matches your new doors and drawer fronts.
This step is what creates a cohesive, factory-finished appearance throughout the kitchen.
Rather than simply changing the doors, cabinet refacing updates all visible cabinet surfaces so the finished project looks completely integrated.
Step 4: Install New Doors, Drawer Fronts & Hardware
Your new custom doors and drawer fronts are installed, along with your selected handles, knobs, or pulls.
At this stage, homeowners typically see the dramatic transformation they’ve been envisioning. The kitchen begins to take on an entirely new personality, often looking like a full cabinet replacement.
Step 5: Add Functional Upgrades
One of the biggest advantages of cabinet refacing is the ability to improve functionality while you’re updating the appearance. All of our cabinet doors and drawers feature soft-close hinges or glides. Popular accessories for cabinet refacing projects include:
- Pull-out shelves
- Trash and recycling pull-outs
- Spice rack organizers
- Pull-out sink base cabinets
- New islands or additional cabinetry
- Updated countertops and backsplashes
These additions can make your kitchen more enjoyable to use every day while maximizing storage and organization.
How Long Does it Take to Reface Cabinets?
One of the biggest benefits of cabinet refacing is that it can often be completed much faster than a traditional kitchen remodel.
The exact timeline depends on the size of your kitchen and the scope of your project, but most cabinet refacing installations take only a few days once work begins. Because the existing cabinet boxes remain in place, there is significantly less demolition and reconstruction involved compared to a full cabinet replacement project.
If you’re also adding countertops, backsplashes, islands, or other kitchen upgrades, your project timeline may be extended slightly. However, homeowners are often surprised by how quickly they can enjoy a dramatically updated kitchen through cabinet refacing.
How Much Does Cabinet Refacing Cost?
Another important reason homeowners choose cabinet refacing over traditional remodeling is the dramatic impact it makes without the excessive cost.
While individual projects will range in price depending on the size of the kitchen and scope of work, generally cabinet refacing costs 60-75% less than full tear-out kitchen remodeling. That’s a huge savings! Additionally, cabinet refacing has a much higher return on investment than more custom kitchen projects.
READ MORE: Cost vs. Value Kitchen Remodeling Project Comparison
The best way to determine the cost of cabinet refacing for your home is through an in-home design consultation. During your appointment, a kitchen design expert can evaluate your existing cabinetry, discuss your goals, and provide a detailed estimate based on your specific selections.
Is Cabinet Refacing Right for Your Kitchen??
As you consider your options for updating your kitchen, make sure to give cabinet refacing a good look. Refacing may be the perfect solution if:
- Your cabinet boxes are in good condition
- You like your current kitchen layout
- You want a dramatic visual update
- You’d like to avoid extensive demolition
- You want to improve storage and functionality
- You want to get the most out of your kitchen remodeling investment
At Improveit, our kitchen design experts help homeowners determine whether cabinet refacing, cabinet replacement, or another remodeling solution is the best fit for their goals.
Start the conversation now by calling 855-637-2999, or schedule online for a free, no-obligation consultation with a trained kitchen design consultant. We look forward to hearing from you!
