What’s the Real Cost of Cabinet Refacing in 2025? A Complete Breakdown

Is Cabinet Refacing Worth the Cost? What Impacts the Price–and Why Quality Matters

If your kitchen cabinet boxes are still in good condition but look outdated, refacing can be a smart and stylish solution–it’s a cost-effective alternative to full cabinet replacement for many homeowners. In many cases, refacing can completely transform the look of your kitchen for a much lower cost without gutting the space to do a full cabinet replacement. 

Cabinet refacing is a growing trend for homeowners who don’t want the price tag of getting entirely brand new cabinets, when refacing can give the kitchen an entirely brand new look for a fraction of the cost. In the graph below, you can see North America leads the market in this sustainable choice to improve the kitchen look.

Source: datahorizonresearch.com

How much does cabinet refacing actually cost? The answer depends on a few key factors and the decisions you make along the way. Let’s break down what drives the price of cabinet refacing and why choosing high-quality materials and an experienced contractor can make all the difference in the long run.

Your Contractor Makes a Big Difference

One of the first and most important choices you’ll make is who does the work. Cabinet refacing isn’t just about slapping on new doors. A good contractor will take time to assess the existing cabinet boxes to make sure they are structurally sound. A good contractor will also prepare the surfaces properly and apply high-end materials with precision. 

Some contractors may offer ultra-low quotes, but that often comes with shortcuts: poor prep work, lower-quality adhesives, or veneers that may chip, peel, or warp over time. A more experienced contractor may charge more upfront, they’re also likely to use professional-grade coatings that are built to last. Plus a skilled installer ensures that the refacing looks seamless and holds up under daily wear.

Refacing Methods Matters

Not all refacing techniques are created equal, nor are the material costs. The method your contractor uses can significantly influence both price and performance.

Basic Laminate Overlays

While these may be budget-friendly, they lack the depth or durability of other finishes. Laminates can look less authentic than real wood up close. Edges may peel or chip over time, especially in high-use areas. Repairs are difficult and usually require replacing the damaged panel. 

Thermofoil

This is a mid-range option that is available in a variety of colors and wood grain. However, they are heat sensitive and can peel or bubble if your kitchen has poor ventilation, or are near ovens or appliances without heat shields. There are limited repair options once peeling starts and replacement is usually required. Color choices are fixed and can’t be repainted like wood. Thermofoil can yellow over time in white finishes if exposed to sunlight or smoke.

Wood Veneers

Wood veneers have a real wood surface. They are more expensive than laminate or thermofoil. Wood veneers require more care as they can scratch, dent, or fade if not properly sealed. They are also vulnerable to warping or peeling if exposed to excess moisture or poor application. Natural variations will mean color/texture is less uniform.

High-End Custom Finishes

High-end finishes include professional-grade paint, lacquer or acrylic. They are fully customizable and can achieve a premium, furniture-quality look. When done professionally they resist chips, scratches, and moisture. These finishes add strong resale value in mid-to high-end homes. Refacing your cabinet doors with high-end finishes gives your old cabinets a new look with high durability. 

While premium materials can raise the total overall cost, they also give your kitchen cabinets a custom, high-end look and improve the long-term durability. If you’re investing in a refacing project, this is where you get the most return, both visually and functionally.

Size of Your Kitchen Impacts Total Cost

Unsurprisingly, the larger your kitchen, the more materials and labor will be involved. Most refacing quotes are based on linear feet of the number of cabinet doors and drawers being redone.

The layout of your kitchen cabinetry can add complexity to the job. If you have any tight angles or corner cabinets with double hinged doors, that will increase the difficulty of the project, time required, and the project cost.

So while your kitchen’s size directly impacts the cost, what really drives value is how those square feet are treated. Cutting corners on finish quality to save a few hundred dollars now could mean redoing everything again in a few years.

Add-Ons, Hardware, and Upgrades Add Up–But Are Worth It

When doing your kitchen remodel with cabinet refacing, it’s also an opportunity to upgrade your kitchen’s functionality and appearance. These extras will impact your bottom line. Here are some popular add-ons.

• Soft-close drawer slides and hinges. This will add to your overall cost because it requires removing drawers, installing new hardware, and adjusting fit.
• Designer knobs and pulls are a quick way to elevate aesthetics. The cost scales with the material you choose (stainless steel, brass, custom finishes).

• Pull-out shelves, spice racks, lazy susans, and trash inserts add value and cost.

• Crown molding, under-cabinet lighting, and custom trim will give a more custom and furniture-like finish that enhances ROI on home value.

• Putting in new countertops with your kitchen makeover to complete your brand-new look.

While optional, these enhancements (plus labor costs) improve your everyday use of the kitchen. They improve functionality and perceived luxury. If you’re already doing a cabinet refacing project, it’s smart to bundle them in. High-quality hardware and internal upgrades not only extend the life of your cabinets, they increase your home’s resale appeal.

Why Quality Refacing is a Smart Investment

When looking at your cabinet refacing cost, it might be tempting to go with the lowest quote and the most basic materials, especially when comparing refacing to getting total custom cabinets (which would be a higher project cost). But choosing high-quality refacing products and a trusted cabinet specialist ensures that you get the most out of your investment during your home improvement.

Well-done refacing services that use premium materials can last 15 to 20 years or more. It gives your kitchen a completely new look and is a very cost effective way compared to the cost of full replacement. Plus, it avoids the mess, demolition, and work downtime.

Final Thoughts

Cabinetry refacing is a flexible, budget-smart option for updating your kitchen look. But, not all projects are priced or built the same. The contractor you choose, the refacing method they use, the materials you select, and the upgrades you include will all influence the final price. 

In short, don’t just look for the cheapest quote–look for the best value. Quality refacing doesn’t just update your kitchen look, it protects your investment for years to come. The investment in your cabinets will pay off in durability, function, and resale value.

Cabinet Coatings has worked on cabinets for more than 20 years doing cabinet refacing, refinishing, and remodeling. We love to help homeowners with refacing kitchen cabinets. Call us today for an in-home quote. Let’s get your project started!