CustomCabinets

Reface Cabinets

Reface cabinets now and save big over buying new. Learning to reface cabinets isn't as difficult as one might think. With a few helpful tips and supplies from your local hardware store you can reface for a lot less than buying all new cupboards or semi-custom replacements.

You can either reface cabinets yourself, find on sale kitchen cabinets, or hire a professional who specializes in this field. Often times, when you want to replace your countertops and appliances as well, it makes sense to hire a cabinet maker for that specific project. Or, you can hire professionals to completely remodel your kitchen and bathroom all in one. Either way, you can still choose to reface cabinets rather than buying a whole new and costly set that will deplete your account.

Reface or Buy New

If you have the money to spare and you have the desire to purchase new then it may not make sense for you to reface. On the other hand, one major item to consider is whether or not you can find quality semi custom built ones that are as sturdy and will last as long as the ones you already have. This is a major dilemma that we face when we purchase new from warehouses and stores that do not specialize in cabinets. Often times, the wood used and the quality of the workmanship just do not hold up to the way things used to be built. The ones built in the 70's and before tend to hold up and stand the test of time a lot more often than newer ones do.

Many of us had an Uncle or Grandfather that would build cabinets out in the garage and reface old ones as a side business to make extra money. The time spent, back then, to go into the quality of the product was exponentially more than the time spent today by the average hired hand. While keeping this in mind, it may make sense for you to reface cabinets the old fashioned way; yourself. Even if you have the money to spend and don't want to hassle with the time it takes to do the work it still may be beneficial to do so. In the very least, it is an option you should consider.

When wondering whether you should reface or buy new ones, you should consider your efficiency of space in the home. Do you need to move the cabinets somewhere else or would you need to add a few to the existing ones? If so, it may simply make more sense to go ahead and buy new, but make certain that you save for this added expense.

Easy To Do

With some 150-grit sandpaper, wood veneer, plywood, wood glue, new hardware and doors you have yourself the majority of what it takes to reface cabinets yourself. The tools it takes to do this job are probably already in your garage. You will need a utility knife, a wood block, and a screwdriver for the new hardware and you are good to go. Start out by taking a lesson at the local hardware store that sells these items and you are well on your way to a weekend of cabinet renewal at a percentage of the cost of new cabinets.

The amount of time it takes to reface cabinets depends on how many cabinets you have to reface. This process will usually take a day or two so set aside a weekend when you would like to devote yourself to this home improvement project. You won't be disappointed in the transformation once it is finished. Most experts will tell you that the hardest part is cutting the veneer properly. This simply takes a steady hand, patience, and following a proper procedure and you are on your way to having a new edition to your kitchen.

If You Hire

If you choose to hire someone to reface cabinets or even to install new ones, be certain that you are thorough in your investigation of their abilities and services. Find out if they offer a warranty and whether it's pro-rated or fully covered. Ask to see other finished jobs that they have done a year or two ago and look for signs of wear or poor craftsmanship. Ask the owners that hired them previously if they are satisfied with their cabinets and would recommend them.

Be sure to check the corners and all the edges for their finish work. The quality of their work is in the minor details and that is where you will find your answer of whom you should hire. When hiring someone to reface cabinets make certain you choose wisely and after much research. You can never be too careful or inquisitive in this decision making process.