A lot of our customers can get confused about cabinet refacing vs refinishing because, on the surface, the names of each project are somewhat misleading. 

So, we’re here to give you a better understanding of what they both entail and why you might want to do one or the other. 

Most importantly of all, we’ll be explaining how you might want to run your cost benefit analysis to determine which one is right for you. 

They don’t cost the same amount, but they do both cost money, so you’ll want to have that information. 

What’s The Difference Between Cabinet Refacing vs Refinishing?

Refinishing implies restoring something entirely, while refacing sounds cosmetic.

Cabinet refacing is the more comprehensive project.

It typically involves removing the existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts and replacing them with new ones.

Hardware like hinges and handles are usually replaced as well.

The cabinet boxes remain in place, but their visible surfaces are covered with a new veneer or laminate to match the new doors.

Depending on the scope, refacing may also require disconnecting countertops or sinks to complete the work cleanly.

The end result is cabinets that look and function like new without tearing out the entire kitchen.

Of the two options, refacing creates the biggest visual change and tends to have a stronger impact on resale value.

But, that depends on what you want. 

At a minimum, you’re getting new doors. 

Of the two, refacing is the one that will make the most difference in your home’s appearance and resale value. 

What About Cabinet Refinishing?

Cabinet refinishing focuses on the existing surfaces.

The cabinet boxes and doors stay in place while they are sanded, repaired as needed, and then stained or painted.

This option is typically the most affordable and works best when your cabinets are structurally sound but showing cosmetic wear like scratches, discoloration, or a faded finish.

This process usually includes cleaning, sanding, repairing minor surface damage, and applying a new stain, paint, or coating.

Refinishing is commonly chosen when the cabinet structure is still solid but the finish looks dated, worn, or discolored.

Because the existing materials stay in place, refinishing is less invasive than refacing. It’s primarily a cosmetic update, but when done properly, it can dramatically improve how a kitchen looks and feels.

Refinishing refreshes the look without altering the cabinet layout or construction.

Cost Of Cabinet Refacing vs Refinishing

The cost of cabinet refacing vs refinishing is going to depend on where you live and how much work is being done. 

On average, cabinet refinishing typically costs 40–60% less than full cabinet refacing, depending on cabinet size, layout, and finish choice.

Refinishing usually involves labor, prep, and coatings, while refacing includes new doors, hardware, and sometimes adjustments to cabinet boxes.

For many kitchens, refinishing falls into the low to mid four figure range, while refacing often reaches mid to high four figures or more.

That price difference is one of the main reasons homeowners choose refinishing when their cabinet structure is still in good condition.

So, account for the average prices of labor and materials in your area and then measure all your cabinets to see how many square feet will be getting worked on. 

And to be on the safe side, it’s always good to budget for at least a little more than you think you’ll really need. 

That helps insulate you from any mistakes, accidents, or unexpectedly high material prices. 

How Long Cabinet Refinishing And Refacing Last

This is another of the most important questions that we feel people don’t ask often enough. 

As with any other home improvement project, you are, on some level, doing this as an investment. 

And like any other investment, you want it to increase in value over time. 

Unlike stocks and bonds, though, you will presumably be using your cabinets on a regular basis, and a certain amount of wear and tear is to be expected from that. 

But you definitely want them to last as possible. 

For that reason, consider that every component of your cabinets will need to be replaced at some point due to age and use. 

Then, ask yourself how many of those components are being replaced in cabinet refacing vs refinishing. 

The one that involves replacing more is probably going to be the one that causes your cabinets to last longer overall, as long as the materials and labor are of good quality.

Why Homeowners Refinish Or Reface Kitchen Cabinets

With our experience in this industry, people choose these projects for practical reasons.

Worn finishes, chipped edges, sticky drawers, and outdated styles all take away from how a kitchen functions and feels.

From replacing old and damaged cabinets to bumping up your home’s value in anticipation of selling it.

Nobody wants creaky, flaky, uneven cabinets, whether they’re planning on selling or not.  

Others want to enjoy a cleaner, more updated kitchen without the cost and disruption of a full remodel.

In both cases, cabinets play a major role in how the kitchen is perceived.

Improved cabinetry can also make daily use more enjoyable.

Things like doors closing properly, surfaces are easier to clean, and the kitchen feels more intentional instead of neglected.

And if someone were looking to buy your house, that’s what they’d want too, which is why you can negotiate a higher sale price. 

Which Option Is Right For Your Cabinets?

The key takeaway is that cabinet refacing and refinishing are related, but they’re not interchangeable.

Refinishing is best when your cabinets are structurally sound and only need a visual update.

It’s a cost effective way to refresh the space without changing how the cabinets function.

Refacing is better suited for cabinets that are still solid but showing their age in multiple ways.

If doors are damaged, hardware is outdated, or you want a more dramatic transformation, refacing delivers a bigger upgrade and a longer term payoff.

In some cases, homeowners choose to combine both approaches to maximize results.

The right choice depends on your budget, the condition of your cabinets, and how long you plan to stay in your home.

Making that decision with clear information upfront from a professional helps ensure the investment actually pays off.