If you live in the United States, it is likely that you will spend over 400 hours in the kitchen each year. This is why kitchen remodeling remains one of the most popular renovations for homeowners. If your kitchen is in need of some “TLC”, you might be questioning what exactly needs to be done. A full kitchen remodel can be a pretty lengthy process and a large investment to boot. However, sometimes a simple kitchen refacing can be the perfect way to bring the room back to life. Continue reading to decide which is right for you: Kitchen Refacing vs. Kitchen Remodeling.
What is Kitchen Refacing?
Kitchen refacing involves updating the exterior surfaces of your kitchen rather than replacing them entirely. Surfaces such as your cabinets, drawers, and even sometimes appliances can be re-done to create a fresh new look. This is most commonly done to avoid the high costs and downtime associated with a full remodel and can be a satisfying compromise.
Key components of kitchen refacing include:
- Replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts
- Applying new veneers or laminates to existing cabinet boxes
- Updating hardware (handles, hinges, etc.)
- Optional: updating countertops and backsplash
Aside from cost-effectiveness, there are a variety of advantages to choosing a kitchen reface. Refacing will save you a considerable amount of time when compared to a remodel as the work is far less disruptive. This also means your daily life will be substantially less stressful (you won’t have to worry about how to make a cup of coffee in the morning). Additionally, kitchen refacing is the eco-friendly option; since you’re keeping most of the framework and just updating the surfaces, you’ll have to throw away far less.
What is Kitchen Remodeling?
A kitchen remodel is a comprehensive renovation that can include changing the layout, replacing cabinets, countertops, appliances, flooring, and more. There’s no limit to what you can do with a kitchen remodel as it allows you to fully customize the space to your exact preferences.
Key components of kitchen remodeling include:
- Demolition and removal of old fixtures
- Installation of new cabinets, countertops, and appliances
- Possible structural changes (knocking down walls, changing plumbing/electrical layout)
- Complete design overhaul
The larger investment of a kitchen remodel brings with it many advantages. This type of renovation will be 100% fit to your liking. A remodel will also allow you to address any structural or functional issues (ie. not enough counter space or storage) and upgrade to the latest trends and technology. On top of improving your kitchen for your own use, these upgrades can also significantly increase your home’s value (talk about a cherry on top to sweeten the deal).
Comparing Costs of Kitchen Remodel vs. Kitchen Reface
Comparing the cost of kitchen remodeling vs. kitchen refacing is fairly straightforward. If you’re only looking for the budget-friendly option, refacing is right for you. However, if you’re curious about cost vs. value, it may be worth considering the two first.
A typical kitchen reface can range from $1,350 to $12,500 (Moore & Pelchen 2024) whereas a typical kitchen remodel can range from $12,000 to $60,500 (Bonk, et. al., 2024). As you may have noticed, the price for a typical kitchen remodel starts right around the high-end of the typical cost for a reface.
There are a few major factors of your project that will affect costs. These factors are the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, and the extent of the work being done. A good method for determining costs is to come up with a list of what’s most important (must-haves), what you want, and what you may like but could live without in a kitchen renovation. This will save you time when looking into an estimate from your contractor.
Time and Disruption
Timeframe for kitchen refacing vs. kitchen remodeling
As the old saying goes, “time is money”. So it makes sense to consider how much time you will have to devote to completing this project (or waiting for it to be completed). A typical kitchen reface can take anywhere from 3-5 days to complete whereas a kitchen remodel can take anywhere from 10-12 weeks (and longer depending on the extent of the project).
If time is of the essence in regards to your project, you can expect much more disruption to your daily life when choosing a remodel over a reface. However, in return, you will have a far more customized product.
Suitability for Homeowners
Who should consider kitchen refacing?
Kitchen refacing is the perfect project for homes with a structurally sound kitchen. Since the existing elements will remain, albeit with new surfaces, it’s important that they are sustainable. A kitchen reface is also a good project for those looking to quickly update their kitchen on a budget. Especially if a homeowner is happy with the current layout of their kitchen, a simple reface can satisfy their urge to upgrade without unnecessary expenses.
Who should consider kitchen remodeling?
For homes with outdated or damaged kitchen structures, a remodel may be the best decision. It may be possible to start by refacing the surfaces, but these are problems that will only linger until they’re addressed. Kitchen remodeling is also perfect for those willing to invest in a complete overhaul of their current design. By gutting the existing layout and starting fresh, a remodel can improve a kitchen’s functionality, efficiency and appearance far better than a reface will allow.
Environmental Considerations
When choosing a project for your home, it’s important to also consider the environmental impact associated with it as well. In this case, either option has its benefits.
Environmental impact of kitchen refacing vs. kitchen remodeling
A refacing project re-uses the existing structures of the kitchen. This means less waste will be produced as additional materials are kept to a minimum. As for a remodel, this type of project does have the potential for higher waste production as all new materials are used; however, a remodel will offer opportunities to incorporate energy-efficient appliances and sustainable materials.
Kitchen Refacing vs. Kitchen Remodeling: Which Is Right For You?
There are many reasons for choosing either a kitchen refacing project or a full kitchen remodel. If cost and time are both more immediate concerns, a reface may be suitable. If you’re more interested in a long-term investment and the benefit of personalization, a remodel may be better. Ultimately, you’ll want to work with a skilled contractor to help you come to the conclusion that is best for you. If you would like to learn more about custom building and remodeling, please don’t hesitate to contact us today!
