Painting or Refacing Kitchen Cabinets (Costs, Pros and Cons)
Tired of staring at dated cabinets every morning, but not ready for a full remodel? You are not alone. Many homeowners want a fresh, modern kitchen without losing months or blowing the budget. You have two smart paths. Painting means cleaning, sanding, and coating your existing doors and frames with a durable finish. Refacing means keeping the cabinet boxes, then swapping doors and drawer fronts, and covering visible frames with a new veneer or laminate. Both options are big in 2025, thanks to sustainability and cost savings. Painting can be the lowest-cost update, often a DIY project under a grand if you own the tools. Refacing costs more, commonly a few thousand to low five figures, but it delivers a like-new look with less upkeep. In this guide, you will learn the key pros and cons of each route, what they cost, how long they last, and when DIY makes sense. We will cover finish types, durability, common mistakes, and simple ways to boost resale appeal. You will also see where to ...