KITCHEN SHOWROOM MANSFIELD

NEW KITCHEN CABINETS VS REFACING: WHICH IS THE BEST CHOICE FOR YOUR KITCHEN?

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Making The Right Choice

When thinking about a kitchen renovation, one of the many questions you might have is:

“Should I reface my kitchen cabinets or get new ones?”

Choosing between new kitchen cabinets and refacing can be a tough decision. And the ultimate decision will depend on factors such as cost, style and needs. The cabinets you choose will affect how your kitchen looks and feels. Making the right decision will help you get the most value and daily enjoyment from your investment. At Kudos Kitchen, we are experts in kitchen makeovers and have extensive experience with both refacing and installing new cabinets. Our expert team has helped many families update their kitchens with smart and stylish solutions that fit their unique needs.

In this article, we’ll help you explore the benefits and drawbacks of both refacing and new cabinets. We'll provide you with clear insights and advice to help you make an informed choice that transforms your kitchen just the way you want.

Understanding Your Options

When updating your kitchen, you have two main options: refacing your existing cabinets or installing new ones. Each option has its benefits and drawbacks, depending on your budget, needs, and the current state of your kitchen.

Refacing Your Existing Cabinets

What is Cabinet Refacing?
Cabinet refacing is a cost-effective way to refresh the appearance of your kitchen without undergoing a complete renovation. This process involves replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and veneers while keeping the original cabinet boxes intact. Typically, it includes sanding down surfaces, applying new veneers, and installing new hardware, giving your cabinets a fresh, updated look.

How It Works
Refacing typically uses high-quality veneers, laminates, or wood to cover the existing cabinet surfaces. You can choose from various finishes, including painted, stained, or patterned, to match your preferred style. One of the main advantages of refacing is that it's generally quicker and less disruptive than installing new cabinets, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners looking to update their kitchens.

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Installing New Cabinets

What Does Installing New Cabinets Involve?
Installing new kitchen cabinets involves removing the old cabinets and replacing them with brand-new ones. This process can include either custom designs tailored to your specific kitchen layout or ready-made options from manufacturers. The steps typically include measuring, designing, assembling, and fitting the new cabinets.

Stock Cabinets vs Bespoke Cabinets

Stock Cabinets: These are pre-manufactured cabinets available in standard sizes and styles. They are often more affordable and quicker to install but offer limited customisation options. Stock cabinets are a practical choice if you're looking for a quick and cost-effective solution.

Bespoke Cabinets: Custom-made to your specifications, bespoke cabinets allow you to choose the exact size, style, and materials. While they are more expensive, they offer a perfect fit and unique design tailored to your kitchen's needs.

According to industry sources, the cost for stock cabinets ranges from £3,000 to £5,000, while bespoke cabinets can cost between £12,000 and £20,000.

Key Considerations To Make The Best Decision

Kitchen Layout & Cabinet Conditions

When To Choose Refacing:

Refacing is ideal if your kitchen layout works well and the cabinet boxes are in good condition. It's a great option for updating the look of your kitchen without significant structural changes, offering a fresh look at a lower cost. Refacing is especially suitable if you want to avoid the mess and expense of a complete renovation.

When to Choose New Cabinets:

Opt for new cabinets if you want to change your kitchen layout, add more storage, or if your current cabinets are damaged or outdated. New cabinets are perfect for homeowners looking for significant changes, improved functionality, or a completely new aesthetic. They also allow for greater customisation, accommodating specific appliances or achieving a precise style.

Cost Comparison: Refacing vs. New Cabinets

Refacing Costs:

Typically, refacing costs range from £3,000 to £7,000, depending on the size of your kitchen and the materials chosen. This cost includes labour, materials like veneers or laminates, and new hardware. Refacing is generally more affordable than replacing cabinets due to less intensive labour and material requirements.

New Cabinet Costs:

The cost of installing new kitchen cabinets can range from £6,000 to £18,000 or more. The price depends on the size of your kitchen, the materials used, and whether you opt for bespoke or stock cabinets. New cabinets are often more expensive due to the need for new units and additional labour for removal and installation.

Still Can’t Decide? Here’s Our Checklist

  • Do you want to change the style or material of your cabinets significantly?

    Think about whether a simple update is enough or if you desire a completely new style or material. Significant changes in style or material may be better achieved with new cabinets.

  • Are you satisfied with the amount of storage space?

    Evaluate whether your current cabinets provide adequate storage. If you need more space, replacing your cabinets could help you incorporate better storage solutions.

  • How important is having a completely new look versus updating the existing design?

     Decide if you’re looking for a total transformation or if a refresh will suffice. If you want a dramatic change in style or material, new cabinets will offer more options. If a facelift is enough, refacing could be the way to go.

  • Are you planning to stay in your home long-term or sell in the near future?

    If you plan to stay in your home for many years, investing in new cabinets may be worth the higher cost for greater durability and personalisation. If you’re planning to sell soon, refacing can provide a fresh look at a lower cost, potentially increasing your home’s appeal to buyers.

  • Do you like your current kitchen layout?

    Consider if your current kitchen layout meets your needs. If you’re happy with the existing layout, refacing can be a quick and effective way to update the look. If not, new cabinets might be necessary to allow for a reconfiguration.

  • Are the existing cabinet boxes in good condition?

    Check if your cabinet boxes are sturdy and free from damage. If they are still solid and in good shape, refacing might be a suitable option.

  • Will your family size or needs change, requiring more storage or a different layout?

    Consider upcoming lifestyle changes, such as a growing family or the need for additional storage. New cabinets can offer more flexibility to adapt to these changes, while refacing might be limited in how much it can improve functionality.

  • Are there any structural issues with your cabinets?

    Look for signs of wear and tear, such as water damage, warping, or sagging shelves. Structural issues often require new cabinets rather than just refacing.

Consider how the chosen option will impact your daily life during installation.

Think about the disruption each option will cause. Refacing is less invasive and can usually be completed in a few days, while installing new cabinets might take weeks and require you to adjust your daily routines significantly during the renovation.

Final Recommendations
If your cabinets are in good shape and you’re happy with your current layout, refacing might be a practical and cost-effective choice. However, if you need a new design, more space, or are addressing structural issues, investing in new cabinets could be the better option. Consider your long-term plans, budget, and how much disruption you’re willing to handle!
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Ready to transform your kitchen? Contact Kudos Kitchens today for a personalised consultation. Our experts will help you evaluate your options and design the perfect solution to meet your needs and budget. Let’s turn your kitchen dreams into reality!
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