Cabinet Refacing: A Cost-Effective Solution
- Joshua Brett
- Sep 23
- 4 min read
If you want to give your kitchen a fresh new look without breaking the bank, cabinet refacing is the way to go. I’ve seen many homeowners and businesses transform their spaces quickly and affordably with this method. It’s a smart choice that saves time, money, and hassle compared to a full cabinet replacement.
Let me walk you through what cabinet refacing is, share some handy cabinet refinishing tips, and explain why it’s such a popular option. Plus, I’ll cover the average cost and how to get the best results. Ready? Let’s dive in!
What Is Cabinet Refacing?
Cabinet refacing means updating the visible parts of your cabinets without tearing everything out. Instead of replacing the entire cabinet box, you keep the structure and replace the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. You also apply a new veneer or laminate to the cabinet frames.
This process gives your kitchen a brand-new look with less mess and less time. It’s perfect if your cabinets are still sturdy but look outdated or worn. You get the style upgrade without the full renovation.
Here’s why I love cabinet refacing:
Less expensive than full cabinet replacement
Faster turnaround - usually done in a few days
Less disruption to your home or business
Eco-friendly - less waste since you keep the cabinet boxes
Customizable - choose from many door styles, colors, and finishes

Cabinet Refinishing Tips to Get the Best Results
If you’re thinking about cabinet refacing, here are some tips I’ve learned from working with Tucson homes and businesses:
Choose the right style and finish
Pick a door style and finish that matches your space and personal taste. Popular options include shaker, flat panel, and raised panel doors. For finishes, you can go with wood veneer, laminate, or painted surfaces. Lighter colors brighten the room, while darker tones add warmth.
Don’t forget the hardware
New knobs and pulls can make a big difference. Choose hardware that complements your cabinet style and finish. Brushed nickel, matte black, and oil-rubbed bronze are trendy and versatile.
Inspect your cabinet boxes
Before refacing, check the cabinet boxes for damage or warping. If they’re in bad shape, refacing might not be the best option. You want a solid base to ensure the new doors fit well and last.
Hire professionals for the best finish
While DIY refacing kits exist, professional cabinet refacing services can guarantee a flawless look. They have the tools and experience to handle tricky cuts and finishes.
Plan for a smooth process
Clear your kitchen or workspace before the project starts. This helps the team work efficiently and keeps your belongings safe.
Consider adding soft-close hinges
Upgrading to soft-close hinges during refacing adds a touch of luxury and protects your cabinets from slamming.
Think about lighting
Adding under-cabinet lighting after refacing can highlight your new cabinets and improve kitchen functionality.

What is the Average Cost of Cabinet Refacing?
One of the biggest questions I get is about cost. Cabinet refacing is definitely more affordable than a full cabinet replacement, but prices can vary based on materials, cabinet size, and labor.
Here’s a rough breakdown:
Materials: Veneers and new doors typically cost between $100 and $300 per linear foot.
Labor: Professional installation usually runs $50 to $100 per hour.
Hardware: New knobs and pulls can add $2 to $10 each.
For an average kitchen with 20 linear feet of cabinets, expect to pay between $4,000 and $9,000 for a complete refacing job. This includes doors, drawer fronts, veneers, hardware, and installation.
Keep in mind, this is a general estimate. Custom finishes or high-end materials will increase the price. But compared to a full cabinet replacement, which can cost $15,000 or more, refacing is a great value.
If you want a precise quote, I recommend contacting local experts who specialize in cabinet refacing services. They can assess your kitchen and provide a detailed estimate.

Why Cabinet Refacing is Perfect for Tucson Spaces
Living and working in Tucson means dealing with a unique climate and style. Cabinet refacing fits perfectly here for several reasons:
Heat and Sunlight Resistance: New veneers and finishes can protect your cabinets from fading or warping due to Tucson’s intense sun.
Quick Turnaround: Tucson residents and businesses often need fast solutions. Refacing can be done in days, not weeks.
Cost-Effective: Whether you’re updating a home kitchen or a commercial space, refacing saves money that you can invest elsewhere.
Eco-Friendly Choice: Tucson values sustainability. Refacing reduces waste by keeping your existing cabinet boxes.
If you want your kitchen or workspace to look fresh and modern without the hassle of a full remodel, cabinet refacing is a smart move.
How to Choose the Right Cabinet Refacing Services
Finding the right team to handle your cabinet refacing is key. Here’s what I look for when choosing professionals:
Experience and Reputation: Look for companies with strong reviews and a solid track record in cabinet refacing.
Portfolio: Ask to see before-and-after photos of past projects.
Material Options: A good service offers a variety of door styles, finishes, and hardware.
Clear Pricing: Get a detailed quote upfront with no hidden fees.
Warranty: Choose a company that stands behind their work with a warranty.
For those in Tucson, I recommend checking out cabinet refacing services that specialize in furniture repair and restoration. They understand local needs and deliver expert care.
Ready to Refresh Your Cabinets?
Cabinet refacing is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your kitchen or workspace. It’s affordable, fast, and delivers a fresh look without the mess of a full remodel. With the right style, hardware, and professional help, your cabinets will look brand new.
If you want to save money and time while upgrading your space, consider cabinet refacing your next home improvement project. It’s a smart investment that pays off in style and function.
Feel free to reach out to local experts to get started. Your cabinets will thank you!
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