How refacing, refinishing and replacing cabinets compare in disruption, change in look and what stays the same.
When cabinets look tired, there are three main paths. Refinishing keeps the doors and boxes and gives them a new color or finish. Refacing keeps the boxes but replaces the doors and drawer fronts and covers the frames. Replacing removes everything and installs new cabinets, which lets you change the layout. Each path suits a different situation.
The key question is whether the boxes and the layout are still good. If they are sound and you like the arrangement, refinishing or refacing can save a great deal of time and mess. If the layout does not work, or the boxes are damaged, replacement is the better choice. Nashville homes with older but solid cabinets are often good candidates for the first two options, and we tell you honestly which one fits.
Changes the color and protects the surface. Keeps existing doors.
New doors and drawer fronts on your existing boxes, with covered frames.
New boxes, doors and layout. The biggest change and the most work.
Refinishing and refacing are faster and less disruptive than replacement.
Only replacement changes the layout and the sizes.
Sound boxes make the first two options worthwhile.
Cabinet RefacingCabinet refacing that keeps your sound cabinet boxes and replaces the doors, drawer fronts and visible surfaces for…Explore 
Cabinet RefinishingCabinet refinishing that strips, repairs and recoats your existing cabinets in stain or paint, restoring color and protection…Explore 
Cabinet PaintingCabinet painting with careful cleaning, sanding, priming and a durable coating, so existing cabinets get a smooth, lasting…Explore 
Cabinet Door ReplacementCabinet door replacement with new custom or ready-made doors that fit your existing boxes, with new hinges and…Explore Size a room, check your cabinets or ballpark a budget.
Cabinet Layout and Quantity CalculatorEnter your measurements to see base and wall cabinet counts, counter area, vanity widths, closet sections, bookcase bays and pantry shelves.Try it 
Should I Refresh or Replace My Cabinets? CheckerPick your cabinet type, condition and the signs you see to learn whether a tune-up, paint, refacing or replacement may fit.Try it 
Cabinet Budget PlannerPick a kitchen, bath, built-in or repair project, set the size and add allowances to see a ballpark planning range. Placeholder values only.Try it Check for swelling, sagging bottoms and loose joints. We inspect them and tell you honestly.
No. Refacing keeps the existing boxes in place.
Refinishing and painting usually are, since doors can be done in a controlled space.
Comparison guideFramed vs FramelessHow face frame cabinets and frameless cabinets differ in look, storage, strength and installation.Learn more 
Comparison guideInset vs OverlayHow inset doors, full overlay doors and partial overlay doors differ in look, cost of labor and storage.Learn more 
Comparison guideCabinet MaterialsHow solid wood, plywood, fiberboard and particleboard compare as cabinet materials for boxes, doors and shelves.Learn more 
Comparison guideDoor FinishesHow thermofoil, laminate, painted and natural wood doors compare in look, wear, repair and cleaning.Learn more Call us and describe your room. We will visit, talk through options and give you a clear written estimate.
