Replacing kitchen cabinets is one of the most expensive parts of a remodel, and it usually means weeks without a working kitchen. Refinishing keeps your existing cabinet boxes and doors and gives them a new, durable finish in the color you want.
Refinishing makes sense when the boxes are solid: no water damage under the sink, no sagging shelves, doors that still hang straight. If you like the layout and just dislike the color or the worn finish, your kitchen is an ideal candidate.
Replacement makes more sense if the boxes are swollen from water, the layout doesn't work for you, or you're changing counters and appliances in ways that need different cabinet sizes.
The quality of a refinish comes down to prep. Cabinets collect grease, especially near the stove, and paint won't stick to it. Proper refinishing means degreasing, sanding, a bonding primer, and cabinet-grade finish coats, with enough drying time between each one.
Not sure which side your kitchen falls on? We'll look at the cabinets during a free estimate and give you a straight answer.