Ask a Pro: What Are the Downsides of Cabinet Refacing?
Hi, it's Jamie Schneider again! With over 15 years in custom cabinetry and woodworking, I’ve seen a lot of kitchen makeovers. Cabinet refacing is one option that people often choose when they want a new look without tearing out their entire kitchen. While it can be a good choice, there are some downsides to keep in mind. Let me share some of the challenges I’ve seen over the years.
Limited Design Flexibility
One big drawback of
refacing is that you’re stuck with your current cabinet layout. If you like how your kitchen is set up, that’s fine. But if you’re dreaming of more storage or a new layout, refacing won’t help with that. I’ve had clients who started with refacing but ended up replacing their cabinets because they realized their kitchen just wasn’t working the way they needed it to.
Hidden Problems
Refacing doesn’t address any hidden problems your cabinets might have. If there’s water damage, mold, or other structural issues, covering them up with new surfaces won’t fix the problem. I remember one project where the cabinets looked fine on the outside, but when we started working, we found serious water damage. In the end, the whole
kitchen had to be redone, which was more costly than expected. It's always better to check for these issues before deciding to reface.
Cost vs Value
Refacing is usually cheaper than replacing cabinets, but it’s not always as cost-effective as people think. Depending on the materials and the work involved, refacing can add up.
In some cases, the price difference between
refacing and getting new cabinets isn’t as big as you’d expect. I always suggest my clients get estimates for both options so they can make an informed decision. Sometimes, spending a bit more on new cabinets makes sense in the long run.
Longevity
While refacing can give your kitchen a fresh look, it might not last as long as brand-new cabinets. Even with high-quality materials, you’re still working with the old cabinet structure, which may already have some wear and tear. I’ve had clients who were happy with their refaced cabinets at first, but a few years later, they wished they had gone with new cabinets because the
refacing didn’t hold up as well as they’d hoped.
Matching Ideas
Another challenge with refacing is making sure everything matches. If you’re only refacing part of your cabinets or trying to match them with existing countertops or floors, it can be hard to get a perfect match. I’ve seen clients struggle with this, especially when combining older materials with new ones. Sometimes, the difference is small, but other times, it can be noticeable and frustrating.
Final Thoughts
Cabinet refacing can be a good option if your cabinets are in good shape and you’re happy with the layout. But it’s important to know the downsides too. From being stuck with your current layout to potential hidden problems, there are a few things to think about before jumping into a refacing project. If you’re not sure what’s best for your kitchen, it might be worth getting advice from a professional (like me!) to explore all your options.
Refacing isn’t always the cheapest or easiest choice in the long run, but with careful planning and realistic expectations, it can still work well. Just make sure you know what you’re getting into, and you’ll be better prepared to handle any surprises along the way.
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about the author
Carl Tanner is a seasoned cabinet maker at Fort Collins Cabinet Kings. He has over a decade of experience in the field. His passion for woodworking shines through in every project, helping homeowners achieve their dream spaces.
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