Replacing Cabinet Doors Versus New Cabinets

When it’s time to refresh your kitchen, one of the most common dilemmas homeowners face is deciding between replacing cabinet doors or investing in new cabinets altogether. This decision often hinges on several factors, including your budget, the condition of your existing cabinets, and the look you want to achieve. 

If you're considering contemporary kitchen cabinet doors or classic styles like flat panel or shaker cabinet doors, it’s essential to weigh the options carefully. Many people wonder if it’s cheaper to reface or replace kitchen cabinets; the answer often lies in the specific needs of your kitchen and the extent of the updates you desire.

Refacing your cabinets can be an attractive option, especially for those seeking affordable kitchen upgrades without a full remodel. By simply replacing cabinet doors and updating hardware, you can breathe new life into your kitchen while keeping costs down. 

On the other hand, if your cabinets are significantly worn or if you're planning a complete kitchen overhaul, installing new cabinets might be the best route. 

Cabinet refacing refers to the process of replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts and updating their hardware (e.g. installing hinges on cabinet doors) while keeping the interior cabinets intact. It’s a cost-effective and quick option to update your kitchen if:

• Your cabinets are in good condition, both in look and function
• Your doors are outdated or a bit run down
• You’re happy with the existing layout of your kitchen

Replacing cabinet doors is a cost and time-efficient option. It costs 30% to 50% less than installing new cabinets and it can be done more quickly—you don’t even have to pack up your kitchen during the process! You can also opt to do it yourself; with just basic measuring and simple tools, it’s a job that any regular joe can accomplish. Cabinet refacing is a more eco-friendly solution, too, because you’re not tossing your cabinets into a landfill.

Plus, even if you’re just changing cabinet doors, you still have plenty of options to play around with. Just check out 27estore’s catalog of cabinet doors to see how much you have to choose from, including custom-built doors!

The main con of cabinet refacing is that you’re keeping the same layout of your kitchen—which isn’t necessarily a bad thing for everyone. Additionally, the insides of your cabinets will stay the same unless you repaint or refinish them, which could add a bit more to your expenses.

Cabinet replacing or installing new cabinets involves an overhaul of the interior and exterior of your kitchen cabinets. It entails removing the entire system and making room for a new setup. You should replace your cabinets if:

• You’re redoing your kitchen and are changing its layout
• You need more cabinet space and functionality
• Your kitchen cabinets are significantly damaged (e.g. they’re rotten, unstable, or moldy)

The best part about installing new cabinets is that you have a clean slate. You can customize your kitchen the way you want with cabinets in the style and functionality you envision. You can also replace different cabinet components for a more put-together finish.

Installing new cabinets will cost more money than cabinet refacing–anywhere between $3,000 to $20,000, depending on the cabinets and the space. It will also require more time and effort; you’re likely going to call in professionals to do it, too, as it entails demolition and installation—which also means that your kitchen would be out-of-order while it’s being done.

Additionally, installing new cabinets often opens up other projects, such as replacing your countertops, which would incur even more costs.

Choosing between cabinet refacing and cabinet replacement ultimately depends on how much you like your current kitchen layout. If you’re happy with it and your cabinets are still solid, then replacing the cabinet doors is the better option, especially if you’re short on time and budget. But if you’re remodeling your kitchen, then you’re better off installing new cabinets to match your re-designed space; plus, you may have no choice, as kitchen overhauls may cause damage to your existing cabinetry, anyway.

Whether you’re just replacing cabinet doors or installing new cabinets, you can find the best cabinet options from 27estore. Choose from a variety of colors, materials, styles, and finishes, including in-stock options and custom-built choices!

Discover IKEA’s hidden potential to fit any design space with our custom IKEA cabinet doors.