Cabinet Refacing vs. Replacement: Cost Comparison
Refacing keeps your cabinet boxes and replaces doors, drawer fronts and veneer. Replacement removes everything and starts over. Refacing typically costs a third to half as much, but only if the boxes are sound and the layout works.
Short answer: Reface sound boxes for a new look; replace when boxes fail or the layout must change.
Installed cost
New semi-custom cabinets run about $5,000 to $15,000 for a 25 linear foot kitchen; stock cabinets about $2,500 to $7,500. Refacing the same kitchen usually lands well below stock replacement, because the boxes, countertops and plumbing stay in place.
| Item | Guidance | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refacing | Typically a third to half of replacement | Keeps layout and boxes |
| Stock cabinets | $2,500 to $7,500 | New boxes, set sizes |
| Semi-custom cabinets | $5,000 to $15,000 | New boxes, more options |
| Custom cabinets | $12,500 to $30,000 | Built to your space |
When refacing makes sense
The boxes are solid plywood or good particleboard with no water damage, the layout works, and you mostly want a new look. Refacing takes days rather than weeks and usually avoids touching countertops.
When replacement makes sense
Boxes are sagging, swollen or falling apart, you want to change the layout or add storage features like deep drawers and pull-outs, or you are replacing countertops anyway. Replacement also lets you fix uneven or damaged walls behind the cabinets.
A middle path
Painting cabinets professionally costs less than refacing and can transform a kitchen with sound wood doors, though painted finishes wear faster than factory finishes.
Common questions
How much does cabinet refacing cost?
Usually a third to half the cost of replacing with new cabinets of similar quality, depending on door style and veneer.
Does refacing add value?
It improves appearance at lower cost, but buyers and appraisers value new cabinets more.
How long does refacing take?
Typically two to five days, versus several weeks for a replacement including ordering.