Skip to content

What is the difference between cabinet refacing and refinishing?

What is the difference between cabinet refacing and refinishing

The Difference Between Cabinet Refacing And Refinishing

Cabinet refacing is a restoration process that is used to update or correct the look of an existing piece of furniture. Cabinet refinishing, on the other hand, is a more drastic alteration where a new finish is applied to an existing piece of furniture.

The main difference between cabinet refacing and refinishing is how much work is involved. Cabinet refacing typically requires less labor than refinishing, as it only entails sanding and re-painting the surface. However, refinishing may require additional steps such as adding new hardware or veneering.

Another important distinction between these two restoration processes is what type of material the original cabinet was made from. Cabinet refacing can be performed on wooden or metal cabinets while refinishing must be performed on wood cabinets only.

-Pros and Cons 

There are many pros and cons to cabinet refacing, but the most important factor to consider is what you want to achieve. Cabinet refinishing is a more affordable option, but it may not offer the same level of quality as cabinet refacing. Cabinet refacing can restore the original look and function of your cabinets while refinishing adds an extra layer of protection.

The main downside to cabinet refacing is that it can be more time-consuming and expensive than refinishing. If you only need minor repairs or enhancements, refinishing may be a better option. On the other hand, if you want a completely new look for your cabinets, then cabinet refacing could be ideal.

-Costing

The cost of cabinet refacing is significantly higher than the cost of refinishing. Cabinet refacing involves taking the entire cabinet apart, sanding, and refinishing each individual piece with a different finish. Refinishing only requires sanding and a sealant.

Cabinet refacing is also more time consuming and requires more skill than refinishing. Refinishing can be done in just a few hours by a novice, while cabinet refacing often takes several days or even weeks to complete properly.

Another major difference between cabinet refacing and refinishing is the type of finish that can be achieved. Cabinet refacing typically results in a high-gloss finish while refinishing produces a matt or semi-matte finish.

Overall, the cost of cabinet refacing is much higher than the cost of refinishing. However, if you are looking for a high-quality finish that will last longer than traditional refinishing, then cabinet refacing may be the better option for you.