How to replace kitchen cabinets doors for a refreshed look

If you are like most people, you want your kitchen to look its best. One of the quickest and easiest ways to achieve this is to replace your kitchen cabinet doors. Many people don’t realize that this is a possibility, but it is – and you can do it without breaking the bank. You may even be able to reuse your existing hardware!

If you are ready to start your new kitchen design, follow these simple steps, and you will be able to replace kitchen cabinets doors in no time.

Can you replace only cabinet doors?

This is a question many homeowners tend to ask before any kitchen renovation. The answer is yes. You can replace just your cabinet doors and achieve a refreshed look for your kitchen. Cabinet door replacement is one of the least expensive and quickest ways to remodel your kitchen without breaking the bank. In addition, it allows you to reuse components you may already have, such as hinges and drawer pulls.

The cost of replacing kitchen cabinets doors

On average, cabinet door replacement varies between $3,000 to $ 18000. This may seem like a significant expense, but it is an investment that will pay off in the long run. A new set of cabinet doors can completely revitalize your kitchen and make it look like a brand-new space.

The cost of replacing your kitchen cabinet doors may vary depending on your specific needs. Other factors that can influence the price are the type of material and the style of door you choose. However, it is essential to remember that this is an investment that will add value to your home in the long run.

Kitchen cabinet door materials

One of the most critical factors that can influence the overall cost of cabinets replacement is the materials. The three most common materials used for cabinet doors are solid wood, MDF, and laminate.

Wood

Wood is a popular choice for cabinet doors because it is durable and can be stained or painted to match any color scheme. The downside to solid wood is that it can be expensive and may require additional maintenance.

MDF: Medium-density fiberboard

(MDF) is a more affordable option than wood and is just as durable. However, it cannot be stained or painted and may not be the best choice if you look for a specific color or finish.

Laminate

Laminate is the most affordable option and is available in various colors and styles. However, it is not as durable as wood or MDF and may not be the best choice for high-traffic areas.

Replacing kitchen cabinet doors style

When it comes to style, there are many options to choose from for kitchen cabinet refacing. The most popular styles are shaker, raised panel, and recessed panel.

Shaker

The shaker style is simple and elegant and features a five-piece flat panel door with a square profile.

Raised Panel

The raised panel style is more traditional and features a two-piece door with a curved or angled profile.

Recessed Panel

The recessed panel style is modern and sleek and features a one-piece door with a flat, minimalist profile.

How to replace kitchen cabinet doors?

Now that you know everything you need to replace your kitchen cabinet doors, it’s time to get started. Here is a simple guide on how to replace the old doors with new cabinet doors:

1. Find a cabinet door that you like

Many online retailers sell cabinet doors and local home improvement stores. You can also find a variety of door styles and materials to choose from. Tip: If you are looking for a specific color or style, it is best to customize your new cabinets with the help of a contractor.

2. Measure the cabinet door to make sure it will fit

It is vital to measure the cabinet door before you make a purchase. Measurements should be taken off the door’s width, height, and thickness for a seamless cabinet replacement. This will ensure that the door will fit correctly and that there will be no surprises when it comes time to install it.

Tip: If the cabinet door is not an exact match, you can always have it trimmed down to size.

3. Remove the old cabinet door

Once you have the new cabinet door, it’s time to remove the existing cabinets doors. Unscrew the hidden hinges from the existing doors and then gently pull them away from the frame. If the door is stuck, you can use a putty knife to help pry it loose.

Tip: Be careful not to damage the cabinet frame when removing the old kitchen doors.

4. Sand and prime the cabinet door if necessary

If the cabinet door is made of wood or MDF, you must sand and prime it before painting or staining. This will help create a smooth surface for the new finish.

5. Paint or stain the cabinet door

Once the door is sanded and primed, it’s time to paint or stain it. If you are painting the door, use a paintbrush or roller specifically designed for cabinets. For staining, apply the stain evenly with a brush or rag and allow it to dry completely before applying a topcoat.

6. Hang the new cabinet door

Once the door is dry, it’s time to install it. Screw the hinges into place and then gently push the door into the frame. If the door doesn’t fit snugly, you can use shims to fill in any gaps.

Pros and cons of replacing cabinets doors

When you decide on your replacement cabinet doors, you must know the following benefits and drawbacks.

Pros of cabinet refacing

There are many benefits to replacing just your cabinet doors and drawer fronts, and it is well known that it is a more efficient solution than replacing your entire cabinet.

You get a fast renovation: Replacing your cabinet doors is a quicker process than ripping out the old cabinets and installing new ones. Depending on the number of your cabinets, you can replace them in as little as a weekend.

Get a refreshed look: Take some time and imagine how great it feels when you paint the walls in a room. Replacing your cabinet doors can have the same effect on your kitchen. When you’re in the process of replacing, you change more than just the color–you can also choose a new door style with different patterns to modernize your kitchen.

You save money: Replacing your cabinet doors is more cost-effective than replacing your entire cabinets.

You can keep your existing layout: You don’t have to make changes to the location of your appliances or plumbing when you replace cabinet doors which means that you save on installation costs.

Get a personalized kitchen: When replacing your cabinet doors, you can also choose custom cabinet solutions that make sense to you. You might want your cabinets with open shelving or add extra features like a spice rack.

Cons of cabinet refacing

According to the NKBA, the main drawback of replacing your cabinet doors is that you’ll have to keep the same layout. This might not be a problem if you’re happy with how your kitchen looks, but it’s something to consider if you want to give a complete makeover of your kitchen.

Also, the inside of your cabinets will be the same after refacing them. You’ll have new doors, but at the same time, you can improve storage in cabinet boxes by adding a shelf to refresh the inside as well.

Conclusion

The key to replacing your kitchen cabinets doors is understanding the benefits and drawbacks of both options. If you are looking for a fast, cost-effective solution that will give you an instant refresh, replacing just your cabinet doors may be the perfect option.

If you are ready to start your cabinet refacing project, follow our simple steps. We can also help you with other aspects of your kitchen design, so don’t hesitate to contact us if you need experts to install new kitchen cabinet doors or even start a whole renovation. Thanks for reading!