Refacing Cabinets

Refacing the fronts and sides of existing cabinets with wood veneer or plastic laminate can improve the appearance of many kitchens. If the cabinets are basically sound, it's an easy way to give your kitchen an entirely new look.

The process of refacing cabinets usually entails replacing doors and drawer fronts, especially if the surfaces of the old ones would be difficult to cover with veneer (see below).

Although using veneers and new door and drawer fronts is more expensive than just refinishing or repainting the existing cabinets, the material cost is still much less than the price of new cabinetry. The decision to reface cabinets also provides the opportunity to add features such as glass, new hardware, or matching fronts for appliances.