Sacramento Cabinet Refacing is a cost-effective, efficient way to refresh your kitchen without the expense and downtime of a full remodel. This project involves refinishing or applying high-quality 3D laminate to the visible surfaces of your cabinets.
Modern refacing materials offer endless design choices to match your aesthetic. It’s important to understand how long this transformative process will take before getting started.
Preparation
Cabinet refacing is an affordable, high-impact way to refresh your kitchen cabinets without the mess and cost of a complete remodel. It involves applying new veneer or laminate to the existing cabinet face frames and sides for a dramatically different look at a fraction of the price of new cabinets.
The process begins by carefully cleaning the faces and sides of the cabinets with a degreaser to remove any oils or residues that could prevent the new surface from adhering. Then, the installer applies a primer to ensure that the surface is prepared for the application of the chosen veneer or laminate. Once the primer has dried, the installer can begin to work on the face frames.
A key difference between refacing and painting is that paint doesn’t change the style of your doors or fix wear and tear. Unlike refinishing, cabinet refacing can be used on most wood cabinetry including thermofoil and other laminate materials that aren’t suitable for sanding or staining.
For this reason, refacing is an excellent choice for modern kitchens or other rooms with solid-surface countertops that can’t be sanded. Cabinet refacing also addresses issues like an unsightly color or outdated design. However, it doesn’t solve any structural problems, such as an awkward layout or damaged cabinets.
To make sure the refacing is properly installed, the installer may need to make minor repairs to the cabinet boxes themselves. This is especially common in older homes where the box may have warped or become cracked over time. The installer can also add or replace drawer fronts during this phase if necessary.
Before the face frame is refaced, the installer will measure the width and depth of each stile (the vertical pieces that run across the cabinet) and rails (the horizontal pieces that connect the stiles). This information will be used to cut a piece of the selected material to size. Then, the installer will apply the veneer to the face frame, making sure it’s glued and heated to create a permanent bond. Once the adhesive has set, the installer can trim any excess material from the edges of the cabinet face.
Installation
Cabinet refacing is an excellent option for homeowners who want to breathe new life into their kitchen without the expense of a full remodel. It offers a fast turnaround time and requires minimal disruption to your home. Whether you’re in need of a simple facelift or an entirely new design, MKD can help create a fresh new look that will complement your modern appliances and make the space feel cohesive.
The cabinet refacing process involves applying laminate to the existing cabinet box faces and sides to give them a dramatically different appearance, often paired with new cabinet doors to match. Unlike painting, cabinet refacing is permanent and can be expected to last 10-20 years or more when professionally done using quality materials.
While refacing is typically considered safe for most structurally sound cabinets, it is not recommended for older or damaged boxes that may have lost their original strength. If your cabinet boxes are sagging or warping, they will need to be reinforced and repaired prior to refacing, as the existing material can’t support the new laminate.
In order to ensure longevity, refacing should only be performed on well-maintained cabinet boxes and doors that are in good condition. Visible wear and tear, such as scratching, dents, or faded finishes, are strong indicators that it’s time for a refresh. Similarly, cabinet doors and drawer fronts that don’t close properly or have damaged hinges are likely to need replacement.
Before hiring a cabinet refacing contractor, it’s essential to evaluate their experience and expertise. Look for a portfolio that showcases quality work on cabinet doors and drawer fronts, as well as their ability to seamlessly integrate new hardware with the existing layout. In addition to their craftsmanship, be sure to consider how responsive they will be throughout the project, as open communication can minimize potential problems and delays. Choosing a reputable, experienced contractor will help ensure a successful result that will enhance your kitchen for many years to come.
Finishing
Cabinet refacing requires a thorough, meticulous application process that demands attention to detail. This is particularly true when it comes to applying veneers. Professional contractors know how to measure and cut veneers to precisely fit the cabinet boxes. This prevents warping, bubbling, or other issues that can compromise the longevity of your new cabinet refacing materials.
The refacing process also includes painting and finishing the cabinets, which can add additional time to the project. The amount of time required to perform this stage depends on the color and finish options selected, as well as any customization or other special requests. The best way to determine how long this phase will take is to schedule an appointment with a remodeling specialist.
During this stage, the cabinets will be primed and then painted with a high-quality latex paint. After the paint dries, a second coat may be applied. This is necessary to ensure the integrity of the finish. The time needed for the final coat to dry will depend on the type of finish and the weather conditions in your home.
After the cabinets have been refaced and painted, it is important to maintain proper care for them in order to extend their lifespan. This includes regularly cleaning them with a mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals, and wiping up spills immediately. The refacing material should also be protected from heat and steam as much as possible to avoid peeling or warping.
Overall, a professionally-refaced kitchen typically lasts about 10-20 years, which is comparable to the lifespan of many new cabinet installations. However, the lifespan of refacing is heavily dependent on the quality of materials and workmanship. Homeowners who choose to perform DIY refacing or use subpar materials can expect their cabinets to last much less than this.
Ultimately, homeowners should remember that cabinet refacing is a cosmetic fix, and it will not solve structural problems with the cabinet boxes or drawer fronts. Homeowners who wish to address these issues should consider replacing their cabinets with new cabinetry. If you’re considering cabinet refacing, make sure to contact a trusted professional for a project that will exceed your expectations!
Cleaning
Cabinet refacing is one of the most cost-effective ways to give your kitchen a facelift. Refacing costs about 30% to 50% less than replacing cabinets. You can also get more dramatic results with refacing, such as changing the style of your cabinet doors to modern or European styles, staining them a new color or adding glass panes for displaying fine china and crystal.
Many homeowners are unsure whether they should opt for kitchen cabinet refacing or replacing their existing cabinets. They may want to update the look of their home’s kitchen, but they don’t have the time or budget for a complete renovation. In this case, refacing is the perfect option.
The cabinet refacing process is less invasive than a complete remodel and allows you to change the appearance of your kitchen with minimal disruption. However, it’s important to understand the length of time required for this transformative project so that you can plan accordingly.
Cabinet refacing is the process of applying a fresh veneer or laminate over your existing cabinet surfaces, including door and drawer fronts. It can be completed in a fraction of the time required for a full kitchen renovation and is more affordable than purchasing and installing entirely new cabinetry.
Before you can start the refacing process, you will need to remove the existing hardware and hinges from your cabinet doors and drawer fronts. This will require careful and precise work to avoid damaging the doors or drawers. Once the cabinet faces are prepped, the refacing company will then attach the new panels to the cabinet box and install the doors and drawer fronts. During this stage, it’s important that the refacing company takes accurate measurements to ensure a smooth and seamless finish.
While kitchen cabinet refacing is more affordable than replacement, it is still a major home improvement project that requires a great deal of time and precision. It is important to consider your kitchen needs and lifestyle before deciding on the best route for your home’s cabinetry. If you are considering a cabinet refacing project, contact the experts at Redo Cabinets today to schedule your free consultation.