A New Kitchen on a Budget- But is it Worth Refacing Your Kitchen Cabinets?
You want a new kitchen but the costs may be daunting. To reduce these costs, many homeowners consider refacing existing kitchen cabinets. But does this make sense for your kitchen and for your needs? There are a few issues to consider when making this analysis for your own home.
First- Are your Existing Cabinets in Good Condition?
Look closely at your existing cabinets. Is the framework in good condition? Are cabinet boxes structurally sturdy, drawers and framework sturdy and intact. If yes, then you may proceed to the next consideration. If no, then refacing existing cabinets would soon prove to be a fruitless effort. My own home has all original 1920 bungalow style kitchen complete with flour bin and California cooler. Despite the age, the solid redwood and well made cabinets would lend these a candidate for refacing.
Second- Is your Kitchen Layout Adequate?
Is your kitchen cabinet layout optimal? If not, what would you change? Is is adequate - which is a step down from optimal but, given the cost savings, perhaps adequate is a good start. But by adequate, we mean fully functional and utilizing the space and the traffic flow in the kitchen in a way that is readily workable. A workable kitchen adds to the enjoyment and the overall value of the home. If the kitchen is poorly laid out, ineffective in its storage and utility, then refacing the cabinets will not eliminate this problem. If you are challenged while working in your kitchen, you may consider new cabinetry so that you can mazimize the space and utility of the kitchen- this allows you to rethink storage, counter space and appliance configuration. If, like in the case of my 1920 bungalow, the cabinetry and workability of the kitchen is rather optimal, then proceed to the next consideration.
Third- What is your budget?
The budget is generally the number one reason that homeowners consider refacing kitchen cabinets. If the cabinets are in good condition and the layout is workable....then perhaps it is only that the general appearance is worn or outdated. In most kitchens, the cabinetry is the major contributor to the general feel and appearance of the room. Refacing kitchen cabinets is a very viable and much less costly consideration and will allow you a whole new appearance to your kitchen. With all the new gadgets and cabinets on the market it is easy to want to begin with a whole new slate. However, if you calculate the anticipated costs of replacing vs. refacting, you may more readily make an informed decision.
For cost comparisons for replacing vs. refacing and for budget perameters, please see other articles on our blog.
First- Are your Existing Cabinets in Good Condition?
Look closely at your existing cabinets. Is the framework in good condition? Are cabinet boxes structurally sturdy, drawers and framework sturdy and intact. If yes, then you may proceed to the next consideration. If no, then refacing existing cabinets would soon prove to be a fruitless effort. My own home has all original 1920 bungalow style kitchen complete with flour bin and California cooler. Despite the age, the solid redwood and well made cabinets would lend these a candidate for refacing.
Second- Is your Kitchen Layout Adequate?
Is your kitchen cabinet layout optimal? If not, what would you change? Is is adequate - which is a step down from optimal but, given the cost savings, perhaps adequate is a good start. But by adequate, we mean fully functional and utilizing the space and the traffic flow in the kitchen in a way that is readily workable. A workable kitchen adds to the enjoyment and the overall value of the home. If the kitchen is poorly laid out, ineffective in its storage and utility, then refacing the cabinets will not eliminate this problem. If you are challenged while working in your kitchen, you may consider new cabinetry so that you can mazimize the space and utility of the kitchen- this allows you to rethink storage, counter space and appliance configuration. If, like in the case of my 1920 bungalow, the cabinetry and workability of the kitchen is rather optimal, then proceed to the next consideration.
Third- What is your budget?
The budget is generally the number one reason that homeowners consider refacing kitchen cabinets. If the cabinets are in good condition and the layout is workable....then perhaps it is only that the general appearance is worn or outdated. In most kitchens, the cabinetry is the major contributor to the general feel and appearance of the room. Refacing kitchen cabinets is a very viable and much less costly consideration and will allow you a whole new appearance to your kitchen. With all the new gadgets and cabinets on the market it is easy to want to begin with a whole new slate. However, if you calculate the anticipated costs of replacing vs. refacting, you may more readily make an informed decision.
For cost comparisons for replacing vs. refacing and for budget perameters, please see other articles on our blog.