Refinishing vs Refacing vs Replacing Kitchen Cabinets in Omaha

If you’re like many Omaha homeowners, you’ve had fixing up your cabinets on your to-do list for a while. Maybe they’re outdated, worn out, or just not fitting your vision anymore. Deciding how to address this issue can be tricky. Should you refinish, reface, or replace your cabinets? Each option has its own set of pros and cons, and choosing the best one depends on your goals, budget, and the current condition of your cabinets.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we’ve spent years helping Omaha homeowners enhance their kitchens through refinishing/painting. We’ve seen the benefits of all three options—refinishing, refacing, and replacing—and know how important it is for homeowners to understand the differences before starting a project. Our goal is to arm you with the information you need to make the right choice for your home and your family.

This article will walk you through the key differences between refinishing, refacing, and replacing cabinets. We’ll break down costs, timeframes, functionality, and other important factors. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which option is right for your kitchen.

Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets

Refinishing cabinets involves sanding them down, repairing any damage, and applying new paint or stain. It’s a cosmetic update that works best if your cabinets are in good structural condition.

Pros of Refinishing:

• Budget-friendly: Refinishing typically costs between $3,000 and $7,000 for an average kitchen in Omaha. However, this primarily depends on the painter you choose and which products they use. At Brush & Roll Painting, we have a thorough prep work process and only use a 2k polyurethane for refinishing. The average price for a kitchen is $6,000-$9,000.
• Quick turnaround: Most projects are completed within 2-3 weeks, depending on the painting process.
• Customizable: You can choose from countless paint colors and stains to fit your style. You can also have a glaze put over top or have a distressing look done.
• Eco-friendly: By reusing your existing cabinets, you reduce waste and environmental impact.

Cons of Refinishing:

• Limited to existing structure: Refinishing won’t address extreme functional or layout issues.

Best for: Homeowners who are happy with their current cabinet layout and just want a fresh look.

Refacing Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinet refacing involves keeping the existing cabinet boxes but replacing the doors and drawer fronts. The cabinet boxes are updated with veneers or laminates to match the new look.

Pros of Refacing:

• Updated style: You get a completely new look without replacing the entire cabinet structure.
• Faster than replacing: Refacing usually takes about a week to complete.
• Less expensive than replacing: Costs typically range from $7,000 to $12,000 for an average kitchen.

Cons of Refacing:

• Doesn’t fix structural issues: If your cabinets are damaged or poorly designed, refacing isn’t the solution.
• Limited layout changes: Your kitchen layout remains the same, as only the exterior is updated.
• Limited Color Options: Many refacing companies only provide a limited number of color and design options for new cabinets. Often, many people choose to have their cabinets refaced and then refinished/painted.

Best for: Homeowners looking for a significant style change without the cost and disruption of a full replacement.

Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Replacing cabinets means tearing out the old ones and installing brand-new cabinets. This option offers the most flexibility but comes at a higher cost and a longer timeline.

Pros of Replacing:

• Total customization: You can change the layout, add new cabinets, and choose every detail—from materials to hardware.
• Improved functionality: Installing new cabinets allows you to address storage and usability issues.
• Higher ROI: New cabinets are a strong selling point if you plan to sell your home.

Cons of Replacing:

• High cost: Replacing cabinets typically starts at $15,000 and can exceed $25,000 for high-end kitchens.
• Time-intensive: The process can take several weeks or months, especially if it’s part of a larger remodel.
• Disruptive: You’ll lose access to your kitchen during the project.

Best for: Homeowners who want a completely new kitchen layout or have cabinets that are damaged beyond repair.

Comparing Refinishing, Refacing, and Replacing

Here’s a side-by-side look at the key differences:

How to Decide Which Option Is Right for You

When choosing between refinishing, refacing, and replacing, consider the following:

1. Budget:
   • If your budget is tight, refinishing offers the best value.
   • Refacing provides a fresh look at a mid-range price.
   • Replacing is the most expensive but offers the most flexibility.
2. Cabinet Condition:
   • Refinishing or refacing works well for cabinets in fairly good structural condition. Refinishing can take care of any minor damage. Refacing will fix any minor damage on the doors and drawer fronts.
   • If your cabinets are damaged or poorly designed, replacing them may be the better choice.
3. Desired Outcome:
   • Refinishing gives you a refreshed look.
   • Refacing allows for a new style or pattern of the wood or detailing without altering the layout.
   • Replacing offers complete customization and layout changes.
4. Timeline:
   • Refinishing is the fastest option.
   • Refacing is slightly more time-consuming but less disruptive than replacing.
   • Replacing takes the most time and planning.
5. Environmental Impact:
   • Refinishing and refacing reuse existing materials and are more sustainable.
   • Replacing generates more waste but may use more durable materials.

Refinishing, Refacing, or Replacing: Which Is Best for Your Omaha Home?

Choosing the right solution for your cabinets depends on your goals, budget, and the current state of your kitchen. Refinishing is perfect for a simple and affordable update. Refacing offers a fresh new look without breaking the bank. Replacing is ideal for those wanting a complete transformation.

At Brush & Roll Painting, we know just how important it is to make the right decisions for your home. As we specialize in cabinet refinishing, we believe you deserve a detailed process and high-quality products to give you a lasting result.

Click the button below to get a quote for refinishing your cabinets in Omaha, NE.

If you are still exploring your options, learn more about hiring a painter. Not all painters are one and the same. To get the outcome you are looking for, you must hire the best painter and avoid common mistakes. Click the button below to get your Guide To Hiring a Painter. This guide will help you research, compare, and choose the right painter or contractor for your home transformation project.