When planning a kitchen remodel, knowing kitchen cabinet refinishing costs is key to achieving an updated look. If your layout suits your preferences and the cabinets are well-made, refinishing is often the most economical way to refresh the space without waste.
The overall cost of refinishing depends on the material, style, desired finish, and the number of cabinets. Each factor plays a role in how much you can expect to spend.
We consulted an expert to break down kitchen cabinet refinishing costs, helping you budget for your kitchen transformation.
Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Costs
Whether it involves applying a new stain to wooden cabinets or opting for a fresh coat of paint, understanding kitchen cabinet refinishing costs can make this project worthwhile, provided the room's design is otherwise ideal.
Cost of Refinishing Wood Cabinets
A fresh stain or wood finish can rejuvenate quality kitchen cabinets, says a home care expert. Expect to pay between $4 and $10 per square foot (£32 to £80 per square metre) for refinishing.
Refinishing typically involves sanding or chemically stripping the existing finish to reveal a more natural look. Hiring a professional is recommended, with labor costs ranging from $35 to $75 (£35 to £56) per hour. Total labor expenses usually fall between $500 and $1,000 (£375 to £750) per project.
While attempting the work yourself might save some cash, experts suggest that for a lasting quality finish, hiring a professional is wise. What might take a DIYer weeks could be completed by an expert in just a few days.
Cost of Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Painting your cabinets can be cheaper if done independently, but to achieve a look similar to a professionally painted kitchen, it's better to enlist a pro. Costs for professional painting range from $1,200 to $6,000 (£900 to £4,500).
If you choose to DIY, prepare for a detailed process. You'll need to strip the cabinets, sand them, and then apply the new paint carefully. Researching the right materials and technique is essential.
Influence of Cabinet Material on Cost
The material of your cabinets significantly impacts refinishing costs. The type of finish, stain, or paint required varies based on the cabinet's original material. Some materials, like solid wood, are easier to refinish compared to veneers or laminates, which often result in higher labor costs.
Factors Increasing Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Costs
Several factors can drive up the cost of refinishing kitchen cabinets. The number and type of cabinets, labor costs, and design complexity all play a role.
Size does matter; larger kitchens with more cabinets will incur higher costs than smaller spaces. Labor costs also vary by location, influenced by local demand.
Cabinet style contributes too. Intricate designs with trim or carvings require more labor and skill, increasing the total project cost.
Cost to Resurface Kitchen Cabinets
If refinishing isn't enough due to outdated cabinets, you might consider refacing or replacing them. The national average for refacing kitchen cabinets is about $7,135 (£5,340), with costs ranging from $90 per square foot (£725 per square metre) for laminate to $450 per square foot (£3,625 per square metre) for real wood veneer.
Costs can vary based on location, kitchen size, cabinet style, and labor rates. Refacing can yield a return on investment of around 65 to 75 percent.
Wood veneer cabinet doors typically cost between $2,500 and $6,000 (£1,870 and £4,490), while solid wood or plywood options range from $5,000 to $10,000 (£3,742 to £7,484). Budget-friendly options like plastic laminate usually cost between $1,000 and $3,000 (£748 to £2,245).
Refinishing vs. Replacing Cabinets
Generally, refinishing is a more budget-friendly option than replacing cabinets. It also minimizes disruption, as replacing cabinets can render your kitchen unusable for longer periods.
When deciding, consider whether the current kitchen layout works for everyone. If the design is functional, refinishing can suffice, but if it needs a complete overhaul, replacement might be the better route.
