(guest post by Bob DeGraff)
It’s been said that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and for good reason. Whether it’s Mom letting her kids lick the spatula while she’s baking cookies or celebrating special occasions with friends and family, some of our most cherished memories are made in the kitchen.
So, it’s no surprise that kitchen upgrades—and specifically kitchen cabinet improvements—are one of the most common home renovations. Because the cost of new cabinets accounts for nearly 30% of the average kitchen renovation budget, it is important to explore and understand all the options available, from DIY solutions to full cabinet replacement.
New Cabinets
One of the most common options for kitchen cabinets during a renovation is total cabinet replacement. It is a great route for those whose cabinets are not functional, aren’t an efficient use of space, or are in disrepair. With brand new cabinets, the homeowner is starting from scratch and can choose custom options made to suit their specific storage needs. Additionally, custom cabinets can be ideal for those who have limited or unique kitchen space, since they allow for complete control of how space and storage solutions are utilized.
The downside to cabinet replacement, whether using custom or stock cabinetry, is the cost. Depending on a number of factors, including the size of the kitchen, the style and material of the cabinets, and the amount of customization, full cabinet replacement can cost up to $30,000, with an average cost of $8,200.
If such a major investment is outside your budget, there are many other options to consider.
DIY Approach
DIY solutions are one alternative to full cabinet replacement. With DIY, on the surface, you can get a much bigger bang for your buck. Options vary based on the homeowner's skills, from DIY painting or refacing to full cabinetry replacement. While the financial benefits make this seem like an easy decision on the surface, there are other considerations.
Before tackling any type of cabinet remodel on your own, it is critical to honestly assess your skill level. Kitchen cabinets get a lot of daily use and need to be durable. Neglecting important details during the job can result in more costly repairs compared to if it had been done professionally initially.
For the handy homeowner, DIY can offer a great solution for cabinet remodels. However, if DIY solutions seem like too much to tackle, and professional cabinet replacement is too much of a hit on the budget, there are other options available.
Professional Refinishing
For the homeowner who wants the cost savings associated with DIY and the wow factor of full cabinet replacement, cabinet refinishing is a good choice. This option breathes new life into the existing kitchen cabinets, doors and drawer covers. By addressing all parts of the existing cabinets, this solution is more economical and environmentally friendly than replacement.
When using an expert like N-Hance, refinishing involves an extensive prep that includes cleaning, sanding, and priming. After painting or re-staining, a final coat cured with UV light will have old, damaged cabinets looking brand new, with the durability needed for long-lasting results. It’s these steps that differentiate refinishing from simply repainting, making it a practical, budget-friendly solution that will still provide that wow factor and stand the test of time.
Photos courtesy of N-Hance
Door Replacement
Replacing cabinet doors in conjunction with refinishing is an effective way to up that wow factor. With new cabinet doors, homeowners have a chance to change the style of their cabinets as well as the color and finish, while keeping the boxes intact. Cabinet door replacement costs significantly less, on average, than full cabinet replacement, leaving room in the budget for you to upgrade your appliances, add a backsplash, or do anything else on your kitchen remodel wish list.
It's crucial to select a professional to ensure expert refinishing to seamlessly match the appearance and durability of the new doors and drawer covers. Cabinet door replacement offers homeowners a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution to achieve a refreshed kitchen aesthetic while preserving the integrity of the existing cabinets.
Kitchen renovations, including cabinet improvements, can be costly and time-consuming, but there are proven strategies for managing both the time and money invested.
It is important to know and understand the pros and cons of each cabinet solution. From full custom cabinet replacement to complete DIY and everything in between, homeowners have a myriad of options available. Seeking advice from professionals is a great place to start. They have the knowledge and expertise to help navigate these waters and find a solution that is best in every situation.
About the author: Bob DeGraff is president of N-Hance Wood Refinishing, a leading wood refinishing and kitchen makeover service provider and a proud member of the BELFOR Franchise Group family of residential and commercial services brands.
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When considering a kitchen remodel, this discussion provides thoughtful insights into choosing the right cabinets. The advice emphasizes the importance of balancing aesthetics with functionality, ensuring that the cabinets not only enhance the overall design but also meet practical needs. The focus on materials, finishes, and layout offers valuable guidance for anyone planning a renovation, helping to make informed decisions that align with personal style and long-term goals. The content encourages a holistic approach to remodeling, where every detail is considered to create a cohesive and functional space. This resource is a must-read for anyone embarking on a kitchen transformation.