How Much Does Cabinet Refacing Cost?

Cabinet refacing project completed by Sixteenth Project in Rockford, MI

Cabinet refacing gives your kitchen a fresh, updated appearance while keeping your existing cabinet boxes in place. Compared to full cabinet replacement, the process is faster, less disruptive, and often significantly more affordable.

But how much does cabinet refacing actually cost? The answer depends on several factors, including kitchen size, material selection, labor, and optional upgrades.

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing involves updating the visible exterior surfaces of your cabinets while keeping the existing cabinet framework intact.

During the refacing process of the project in Rockford, MI (finished kitchen pictured above), all doors and drawer fronts have been removed.

A typical refacing project includes:

• Replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts

• Applying a new veneer or finish to exposed cabinet frames

• Installing updated hardware such as handles and hinges

• Optional decorative upgrades like molding or lighting

  
  

Because the original cabinet boxes remain in place, refacing can dramatically improve the appearance of your kitchen without the cost and demolition involved in a full replacement.

Average Cost of Cabinet Refacing

Below is a price breakdown for the three most common-sized kitchens we see. The refacing cost estimate also includes labor and materials.

In general:

• Small kitchens, roughly defined by around 20-25 doors and drawer fronts, cost around $7,000–$12,000

• Medium-sized kitchens, about 30-35 doors and drawer fronts, cost around $15,000–$20,000

• Large or exceptionally large kitchens, about 40-60 door and drawer fronts (including islands and extensive cabinetry), can go as high as $20,000- $30,000+.

  
  

Even at the higher end, refacing is usually far more affordable than installing completely new cabinets. In many cases, homeowners save roughly 30% to 50% compared to a full cabinet replacement.

Factors Affecting the Cost of Refacing

1. Material Selection

• Rigid Thermofoil (RTF)

RTF cabinets provide a smooth, seamless finish while remaining a cost-effective option. They are available in a wide range of styles and colors and are easy to maintain - perfect for big families or households with pets.

• Solid Wood

Solid wood cabinet doors offer a timeless, high-end look and exceptional durability. They showcase natural wood grain and can be stained in a variety of finishes.

• Painted Wood

Painted wood doors provide a clean, custom appearance that works well in both traditional and modern kitchens. They offer the durability of real wood while allowing for a wide variety of paint colors.

2. Kitchen Size and Cabinet Quantity

The number of cabinets in your kitchen directly impacts both material and labor costs, which feed into the overall cost of refacing your kitchen.

Larger kitchens require:

• More veneer material

• More cabinet doors and drawer fronts

• Additional labor hours

• More hardware installation

  
  

Features like islands, pantry walls, and tall cabinetry can also increase overall project costs.

For example, a 42" wall cabinet will cost significantly more than a 30" tall wall cabinet and needs to be priced accordingly.

Popular Upgrade Options

1. New Hardware

Replacing outdated knobs and pulls can dramatically modernize your kitchen.

Average Cost: Roughly $5–$25 per piece

2. Under-Cabinet Lighting

Under-cabinet lighting improves visibility while adding warmth and ambiance to the kitchen.

Average Installation Cost: Approximately 1500 - 2500 for an electrician to professionally install.

3. Crown Molding

Decorative crown molding creates a more custom, finished appearance.

Average Cost: Around $500–$1,500 depending on design complexity and materials.

Cabinet Refacing vs. Full Replacement

Cabinet refacing is ideal when:

• Cabinet boxes are structurally sound

• You want a cosmetic update

• Your current kitchen layout still works well

• You want to reduce renovation costs and downtime

  
  

However, full cabinet replacement may be the better choice if:

• Cabinets have water damage or mold

• Cabinet boxes are weak or warped

• You want to completely redesign the kitchen layout

• Storage functionality is poor

  
  

Final Thoughts

If your cabinet boxes are still in good condition, refacing can completely transform your kitchen’s appearance while saving both time and money compared to full cabinet replacement.

Reach out to a member of Sixteenth Project today to begin your kitchen refacing journey with a free consultation and estimate!