Cabinet refacing offers a high-impact kitchen update without the mess and cost of a full remodel. It’s also a more eco-conscious option that can add value to your home.
However, refacing won’t address structural issues or water damage. It is not a long-term solution, and you’ll likely need to revisit the process after a few years. For more information, go to Fine Finish Cabinetry.
Veneering
Cabinet refacing uses high-quality veneers on the face of existing cabinets to create a fresh new look. This method is a cost-effective alternative to a complete kitchen remodel and can boost your home’s value. It also offers more design options than refinishing.
The refacing process starts with making any necessary repairs to the cabinet boxes to ensure they’re structurally sound. The boxes are then cleaned, sanded, and primed to prepare them for the new veneer. Cabinet refacing isn’t just an aesthetic upgrade; it improves the overall functionality of your kitchen by adding features like soft-close hinges and sleek hardware.
There are several types of wood veneer available, including natural hardwoods such as maple and oak, and softwoods such as ash and cherry. Veneering can also be used with synthetic materials, such as reconstituted or engineered wood. These are made of cellulose fiber from renewable, sustainable forests and are often used to replicate rare or expensive hardwoods that would be too expensive to produce with solid wood construction techniques.
Raw or unbacked veneer is a very durable and versatile option. It can be affixed to a variety of substrates, from medium-density fiberboard (MDF) to particle board or hardboard. It can also be applied to surfaces that aren’t flat, such as curves and columns, using a technique called bookmatching. This involves arranging pieces of raw veneer from different flitchs to produce a mirrored image.
Another option is paper-backed veneer, which is usually affixed to a kraft or vinyl backing. This allows the veneer to flex more easily and reduces the risk of cracking. It is available in larger sheets than raw veneer and can be laid up to produce patterns that mimic more expensive figured woods, such as burl or crotch mahogany.
Finally, there’s phenolic backed veneer, which is less common but more environmentally friendly than other types of backing. This type of backing is most commonly used for composite, or artificial, veneers, and it’s especially useful when working with curved surfaces because it won’t crack as easily as raw or paper-backed veneer. It can also be purchased already laid up, saving time and effort.
Installation
Cabinet refacing is a smart alternative to a complete kitchen remodel. It gives your space a completely new look without the expense and mess of demolition and construction. It also offers a high return on investment, adding value to your home.
A professional refacing contractor will have the skills and experience necessary to complete the job properly. They will understand the ins and outs of preparing cabinets for veneer and will ensure that the material bonds tightly with the existing surfaces for a long-lasting finish. This is crucial to prevent peeling and other damage in the future.
The first step in the refacing process is to remove the old doors and drawer fronts. Then the cabinet boxes are cleaned and lightly sanded to prepare them for the new material. A high-quality laminate or wood veneer is then applied to the exposed surfaces of the box cabinets, transforming their appearance. New cabinet doors and drawer fronts are installed, along with updated hardware like handles, knobs, and hinges to complete the look.
Before refacing, it’s important to consider what style you’re going for and how the finished product will fit with your space. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at home decor magazines and online design galleries for inspiration. Pay particular attention to the colors, finishes, and styles of cabinets you’re drawn to. Then, consider how your refaced cabinets will fit with the rest of your kitchen’s decor and architectural features.
It’s also essential to examine the condition of your existing cabinet boxes. Make note of any cracks or dents in the wood and address them before refacing. If your cabinet boxes are in poor condition, replacing them may be a better choice than refacing.
If you’re considering DIY refacing, remember that it’s a complicated project with many moving parts. Inexperienced homeowners can often end up with a subpar result. Plus, the cost of purchasing and using all the necessary tools and materials can quickly add up. It’s often much more cost-effective to hire a professional contractor. The extra upfront investment will save you money in the long run by ensuring that your project is completed properly and to your satisfaction.
Finishing
A comprehensive cabinet finishing process ensures your cabinets have a high-quality, factory finish that is durable and long-lasting. The process involves meticulous surface preparation, priming, and multiple coats of professional-grade paint to achieve a flawless appearance. This is done for both refacing and refinishing projects to create an attractive, durable finish that will resist everyday wear and tear.
Depending on your kitchen’s aesthetic and budget, you may choose wood veneer, laminate, or rigid thermofoil (RTF). Each material has its own unique look and provides different style options for your home. When choosing materials, it is important to take accurate measurements to ensure a seamless, flawless fit.
This step is critical for achieving the best possible results and ensuring that your new cabinet doors will fit properly. Cabinet refacing requires the removal of existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts to expose the frame and cabinet boxes underneath. Once the cabinet box is inspected and is in good condition, the installation process begins.
If you are implementing other changes to your kitchen, it is important to coordinate them with your cabinet refacing project to avoid disruption and ensure all elements match seamlessly. A new countertop, backsplash, or flooring can impact the timeline for your project. Our team will work with you to determine an optimal schedule that fits your goals and accommodates other elements of your renovation.
Cabinet refacing is a great option for homeowners who want to update their kitchen’s aesthetic and make a dramatic difference without breaking the bank. This method is also ideal for those looking to preserve vintage or antique cabinets. However, refacing is not ideal for severely damaged or low-quality cabinets, and it can’t solve functional or storage issues.
The refacing process can be complex, and unforeseen challenges may arise. These challenges will likely prolong the project timeline and may require a delay in the delivery of your materials. Redo Cabinets will work with you to address these issues as swiftly and efficiently as possible without sacrificing quality. This is especially true when it comes to embracing convenient storage options and drawer upgrades that enhance functionality and maximize space.
Cleaning
The finish on your refaced cabinets acts as a protective barrier against grease, heat, dust, and grime. However, over time the finish can weaken due to abrasions or chemicals and cause your cabinet doors to start chipping or peeling. You can help prevent damage to your cabinets by keeping up with a regular maintenance routine. Wipe up spills and splatters as they occur, use a non-abrasive cleaner for everyday cleaning, and regularly inspect the surfaces of your cabinets to look for signs of wear.
Regularly dusting your refaced cabinets is one of the best ways to keep them clean and free from accumulated dirt and debris. You can use a lint-free cloth or feather duster to gently remove dust and other unwanted particles from all surfaces, including the cabinet frames and doors. This should be done at least once a week, and more often in high-traffic areas.
Avoid using harsh or abrasive cleaners on your refaced cabinets, as these can scratch or damage the surfaces. Mild detergents or vinegar and water are safe cleaning options for refaced cabinetry. Be sure to wipe surfaces dry, as moisture can damage the wood or laminate underneath.
Stains are also a common problem with kitchen cabinetry, but you can reduce their frequency by regularly wiping your refaced cabinets down with a damp cloth or sponge. If you do need to use a stronger cleaner, test the product on a small area of your refaced cabinets before applying it to all surfaces. Many strong commercial cleaners can cause the paint to strip or peel on your new cabinetry.
Other ways to reduce the likelihood of stains and damage to your cabinets include placing trivets or mats under hot pans and dishes to protect the cabinetry from heat damage, and using coasters or trays to hold drinks and food to prevent staining and warping. You should also avoid slamming cabinet doors or drawers, as this can cause scratches and other damage. Finally, it’s a good idea to place window treatments in your kitchen to shield your refaced cabinets from direct sunlight that can fade their finish over time.