How Much Does Cabinet Refacing Cost?
Tired of your outdated kitchen cabinets but dreading the thought of a costly, months-long renovation? You’re not alone.
Many homeowners face this exact dilemma. They want a fresh, modern kitchen without the hefty price tag and significant disruption that comes with complete cabinet replacement.
Cabinet refacing offers the perfect solution. This process transforms your kitchen’s appearance by replacing cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and surface veneers while keeping your existing cabinet boxes intact. You’ll get a brand-new look at 50-70% less cost than replacement.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know about cabinet refacing costs in 2025.
From material options and labor expenses to regional price variations and money-saving tips, you’ll have all the information needed to make an informed decision about your kitchen conversion.
Average Cost of Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing costs typically range from $4,000 to $13,000 for most kitchens, with a national average of around $7,200.
The price ranges from $150 to $450 per linear foot, depending on the size and layout of your kitchen. Basic laminate refacing starts around $4,000 to $5,000 for smaller kitchens, while mid-range projects with wood veneer fall between $5,000 $10,000.
Premium solid wood refacing can reach $10,000 to $15,000 or more. The cost depends on several factors, including materials chosen, cabinet size, kitchen layout complexity, and regional labor rates.
Labor accounts for about 50% of the total project cost, making professional installation a significant part of your budget.
Factors Affecting Cabinet Refacing Cost
Several factors, including kitchen size, material choice, labor costs, and customization options, influence the overall cost of cabinet refacing.
- Cabinet Size and Layout: Larger kitchens with more linear feet of cabinets and complex layouts, featuring corners or islands, cost significantly more than simple, straight-line designs.
- Materials Used: Laminate costs $80-$120 per linear foot, wood veneer ranges $150-$300, while premium solid wood can reach $400-$500 per linear foot.
- Cabinet Door Style and Hardware: Simple, flat-panel doors are less expensive than raised-panel or custom designs. Basic hardware costs $6-$20 per piece, compared to premium options at $40-$60 each.
- Labor Costs: Professional installation costs vary by region, ranging from $50 to $100 per hour, with urban areas typically costing 30-50% more than rural locations.
- Additional Services: Crown molding costs $15-$25 per linear foot, custom shelving ranges from $100-$300 per shelf, and soft-close hinges add $10-$15 per door.
Cabinet Refacing Cost by Kitchen Size
| Kitchen Size | Estimated Cost Range | Average Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Small Kitchens ( | $1,000 – $4,000 | $2,500 |
| Medium Kitchens (100-200 sq ft) | $4,000 – $7,500 | $5,750 |
| Large Kitchens (>200 sq ft) | $7,500 – $12,000 | $9,000 |
Cabinet Refacing Cost by Material
The material you choose for cabinet refacing has a significant impact on the cost. Premium options, such as solid wood, are more expensive, while budget-friendly choices, like laminate and wood veneer, are more affordable. Here’s a breakdown of the expenses by material.
1. Wood Veneer
Wood veneer costs $150-$300 per linear foot, offering a natural wood grain with excellent durability.
It offers an authentic wood look that’s more affordable than solid wood, while also being scratch-resistant and long-lasting. Popular options include oak, maple, and cherry that can be stained to match any décor.
2. Laminate
Laminate ranges from $80 to $150 per linear foot, making it 40-60% cheaper than wood veneer. It offers water resistance, easy maintenance, and comes in hundreds of colors and patterns, including wood-look designs. However, it can chip on impact and may look less premium than real wood.
3. High-Gloss Finishes
High-gloss finishes, which cost $200-$400 per linear foot, create a modern, sleek appearance that reflects light.
Popular styles include white, black, and bold colors that make kitchens appear larger and brighter. These finishes require careful maintenance as they show fingerprints and scratches more easily.
4. Custom Finishes
Exotic wood veneers cost $300 to $500 per linear foot, while glass inserts add $100 to $300 per linear foot.
Custom stains, distressed finishes, or specialty textures can increase costs by 25-75% above standard options. These materials require skilled craftsmen and longer installation times.
5. Painted Finishes
Professional cabinet painting costs $100-$250 per linear foot, which is comparable to basic veneer but less than premium materials.
Painted finishes offer an unlimited range of color options and can be easily refreshed over time. However, paint may chip or wear faster than veneer in high-use areas.
Cabinet Refacing Labor Cost
Cabinet refacing labor costs typically depend on the complexity of the project, location, and the experience of the contractor, with prices ranging from $30 to \$60 per hour.
- The average labor cost range for cabinet refacing projects is $3,100 to $6,500, representing 50-70% of your total project budget.
- Most contractors charge a flat rate based on linear feet ($75-$200 per foot) rather than hourly rates, though some may use hourly billing at $50-$100 per hour.
- Factors that influence labor costs Include Complex layouts with tight spaces, extensive repairs required, premium materials that necessitate specialized skills, and urban locations, which can increase labor costs by 20-60%.
- DIY saves $3,000-$6,000 in labor but requires 3-5 days of skilled work, while professionals complete the job faster with warranties and proper tools.
How Long Does Cabinet Refacing Take?
Cabinet refacing typically takes 2-5 days for an average kitchen, depending on the number of cabinets and the complexity of the design.
The timeline can be shortened with proper preparation and simple layouts. Still, it may extend to a week or more for large kitchens, custom finishes, or if repairs are needed to existing cabinet boxes.
To minimize disruption, clear countertops beforehand, set up a temporary kitchen area in another room, and schedule the work during less busy periods when kitchen access isn’t critical for daily routines.
Is Cabinet Refacing Worth the Investment?
Cabinet refacing offers significant advantages, including 50-70% savings compared to full replacement, completion in just 3-5 days versus weeks for new cabinets, and minimal kitchen disruption, allowing continued use during the project.
However, you’re limited to your existing cabinet layout and box condition, with potential wear issues if the underlying structure is poor.
Despite these limitations, refacing typically returns 65-80% of your investment in added home value, making it a wise choice for homeowners seeking a fresh kitchen look without the expense and hassle of complete renovation.
Cabinet Refacing vs. Cabinet Replacement
| Aspect | Cabinet Refacing | Cabinet Replacement |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $1,000 – $9,000 | $8,000 – $20,000+ |
| Time to Complete | 1-5 days | 2-4 weeks |
| Customization Options | Limited | Full |
| Durability | 10-20 years | 20-30 years |
| Disruption | Minimal | High |
| Return on Investment | High | Moderate |
Tips To Save on Cabinet Refacing Costs
- Choose laminate over wood veneer – Save 40-60% by selecting quality laminate materials that mimic wood grain for $80-$150 per linear foot.
- Keep existing hardware when possible – Reuse current knobs and pulls in good condition to avoid $200-$1,000 in hardware replacement costs.
- Time your project strategically – Schedule it during contractors’ slower seasons (late fall or winter) for potential 10-15% discounts.
- Get multiple quotes – Compare at least three contractors to find competitive pricing and avoid overpaying by $1,000 to $3,000.
- Consider a partial DIY approach – Handle prep work like removing doors and cleaning, while leaving professional installation to the experts.
- Stick to standard finishes – Avoid custom colors or exotic materials that can increase costs by 25-75% above basic options.
Final Thoughts
Cabinet refacing provides an excellent middle ground for homeowners seeking a kitchen makeover without incurring significant expenses.
With costs ranging from $4,000 to $13,000, compared to $15,000 to $40,000 for full replacement, refacing delivers impressive value while completing your project in just a few days rather than weeks.
You’ll get a fresh, modern appearance with a 65-80% return on investment when you sell your home.
However, if your cabinets have structural damage, a poor layout, or you want to change the kitchen configuration completely, replacement might be the better long-term choice.
Ready to change your kitchen? Get quotes from three local contractors to compare prices and materials. Your dream kitchen might be more affordable than you think.
What’s your biggest concern about cabinet refacing costs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Cheaper to Reface or Replace Cabinets?
Refacing costs 50-70% less than replacement, typically $4,000-$13,000 versus $15,000-$40,000 for new cabinets.
How Much Does Cabinet Refacing Typically Cost?
Cabinet refacing averages $7,200 nationally, ranging from $150-$450 per linear foot, depending on materials and kitchen size.
What Are the Cons of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets?
You’re stuck with your existing layout, cabinet box condition limits durability, and customization options are restricted compared to full replacement.
