Cabinets-Options to update your kitchen cabinets
Wondering what to do with your worn looking kitchen cabinets? Do you dream of installing a new set of cabinets just to update the look of your kitchen? Expect! Don’t do that yet! You may still have the kitchen of your dreams without spending too much on it.
Kitchen cabinets can be considered as one of the most important elements in any kitchen. And why not? They certainly take up a lot of space compared to all the other items in the kitchen and a large sum of money is required to install a new set of items. But before you go on spending your precious dollars, why not take a closer look at your kitchen cabinets? They may just need some restoration or restoration work to make them look like new! Consider these options and see if you can squeeze a few more years of functionality out of your existing cabinets for a fraction of the cost!
Consider refinishing your cabinets
If you decide that your kitchen cabinets are still structurally sound, you may want to consider updating their look simply by repainting them. Some of the more common options include doing some simple painting and staining, performing complicated glazing procedures, or employing a more elaborate faux-marble and woodgrain finishing project.
Restoration projects may be considered the most economical solution to this problem, but they can be time-consuming and extremely complicated. Be prepared to shell out at least $50 per cabinet door if you want to pay someone to do the work for you.
Is refacing the right option for you?
Refreshing may be the best way to go if your kitchen cabinets need a facelift but are otherwise plumb, boxy, and sturdy. Resurfacing your cabinets will give them a long-term lift and can even make them match your new countertops. However, this does not apply if you have metal cabinets or if your cabinets are flimsy or sagging. This is also not a good option if you plan to move the cabinets elsewhere.
The process is quick and can be completed in a matter of days. First, the cabinets are covered with new “skins”. These skins can range from white thermofoils and gloss-coated laminates to 3/16-inch-thick solid wood veneers. Soon after, new doors, drawer fronts and hardware are added to complete the new look. For this type of project, allocate at least $150 to $300 per cabinet door (including the cost of materials and installation) to make sure you’re on the safe side.
You’ll know it’s time for a replacement when…
If your kitchen cabinets are already failing or major design modifications are required, you should definitely save up for a new set. Research your interior design well to ensure you get the perfect set of cabinets that will blend seamlessly with your kitchen interiors. It would be wise to decide on the design, material and finish you prefer so that you are not inundated with all the options available on the market today!
If you plan to replace your old kitchen cabinets with regular cabinets, expect your kitchen to be out of commission for a few days. Allow a longer time (say, a few weeks) if you have custom cabinets installed. How much do you need to prepare when undertaking these types of projects? $300 and up per door opener (materials and installation costs included) will pretty much cover the cost!
So, you see, updating the look of your kitchen doesn’t need to put a lot of pressure on your budget!