Is Refacing Kitchen Cabinets Better Than Replacing Them?
Ultimately, whether or not to reface or replace kitchen cabinets is a situation-specific decision dependent on the existing units, budget and overall aesthetic goals.
Enjoy a Lively and Healthy Life What is better refacing or replacing cabinets? Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Calgary has gained tremendous appeal with homeowners who want to update their kitchen for a fraction of the cost and without the hassle associated with completely replacing it. Refacing the doors, drawers, and visible surfaces of cabinets involves removing them from the framework but leaving the basis in place and ecologically.
The biggestbenefit of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing in Calgary is it saves money. As a comparison, replacing all kitchen cabinets may range from $15,000 to $30,000 (or higher) depending on the quality and materials of the cabinets and finishes chosen while refacing costs between 50-70% less. For most Canadians this equates to a big cost savings, now homeowners can have the fresh and new look they want without adding onto their renovation budget. Additionally, it cuts down on demolition and construction thereby avoiding disruptions in daily living. This is particularly beneficial in Canada since kitchen spaces represent the family hub and long renovation projects are a hassle.
Another important factor is time. There are two main benefits of refacing versus replacing: Refacing can be completed within one or two weeks; a full replacement could take several weeks and even months when taking into consideration design, ordering, and installation. During a Canadian winter specifically, limiting the time of renovation can also be key: Homeowners may not want to deal with as much construction and contractor interaction in the months when they’re less inclined to spend an extended period of time outside behind the safety of closed doors. Refacing enables families to have a revitalized kitchen in just days without tearing down the old one and disrupting home life.
Material selection is very important for both appearance and durability. High-end kitchen cabinet refinish or replacement in Calgary is usually done with wood veneers, laminate finishing and even engineered wood products. Veneers are used over durable wood products such as medium density fiberboard (MDF) and particle board, made of renewable resources. Laminate counter tops are durable and scratch resistant, making them ideal for high traffic kitchens that see a lot of heavy use, spills and moisture. A lot of Canadian homeowners also like the idea that refacing can include material that’s eco-friendly, as this cuts down extensive waste when compared to replacing all your cabinets, much of which ends up in landfills.
Apart from being cost-effective and time-saving, refacing also gives a variety to designs. Homeowners also can choose new cabinet doors, hardware and finishes that feel fresh or reflect their own personal tastes. For example, shaker style or modern flat panels can take a dated kitchen and turn it into fresh, contemporary looking kitchen. Injecting some custom features like glass inserts, decorative mouldings and the like ups the visual interest while leaving the basic carcasses intact. That’s where Kitchen Cabinet Refacing in Calgary comes into the picture as it gives a pragmatic alternative to upgrade a kitchen without investing a lot of labour and funds for starting from scratch.
Both durability and maintenance are factors. Refacing is done right, it will add another 10-15 years of use to your existing cabinets because new surface and edges are protecting the wood below. As well, soft-close hinges and great drawer slides can be retrofitted, adding function to the kitchen while minimizing wear and tear. For homes in Canada that have their kitchens used more frequently than other average homes, these features are valuable and will pay dividends long term as far as satisfaction with the project.
(Just keep in mind that refacing works best if your existing cabinet boxes are at least somewhat sturdy though -- after all, you're adding another 1/4 inch of thickness to the sides.) Cabinets with major structural damage, water rot or warped frames may need to be replaced entirely for safety and functionality. A pro will inspect and let you know if refacing is an option, or if you are in need of replacement. Calgarians frequently choose refacing in their kitchens for a cosmetic make over, and we see replacement more often when the kitchen needs structural help or the layout is changing completely.
Lastly refacing can be an eco-friendly option as well. Homeowners reduce waste in the landfill and the use of new raw materials to create a new kitchen by leaving the existing cabinet boxes. With the push for renovating in a more eco-friendly way becoming more and more popular in Canada, running with an idea like Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Calgary is both practical and ethical. "It's a nice mix between being economical and having freedom to get what you want that looks beautiful, but doesn't break the bank," she says of refacing.
Ultimately, whether or not to reface or replace kitchen cabinets is a situation-specific decision dependent on the existing units, budget and overall aesthetic goals. Calgary Kitchen Cabinet Refacing introduces a unique product offering that brings the satisfaction of renewing your home with cost reduction, less waste and alright let's say it eco friendliness. By taking a good hard look at the materials in question and design goals vis-a-vis what is currently on hand, how successful cabinets are structurally sound vs. worn out, homeowners can make an informed decision that takes into account both function and form as well as long-term value for the home.