Cabinet Refacing vs Replacing: How to Choose the Right Remodel Option

Kitchen cabinets set the tone of a home. Change them, and the whole space feels new. The question is how to change them: refacing or replacing? Both can deliver a fresh, functional kitchen; they just do it in different ways. Here’s a clear, no-nonsense guide to help you pick the right path.
What cabinet refacing actually is
Refacing keeps your existing cabinet boxes. You:
- Install new doors and drawer fronts
- Apply matching veneer or laminate to visible box faces
- Swap hardware (hinges, pulls) and often add soft-close features
- Optionally update crown, light rail, toe kicks, and end panels
Good fit when: your cabinet layout works, boxes are structurally sound, and you mainly want a style refresh—color, door profile, hardware, and a cleaner overall look.
Pros
- Speed & less mess: Often done in days, with minimal demolition and dust.
- Lower waste: You’re not sending full boxes to the landfill.
- Cost-efficient style









