Side-by-Side Comparison
See how cabinet refinishing stacks up against full replacement across every important metric.
| Factor | RECOMMENDED Refinishing | Replacing |
|---|---|---|
| Average Cost | $3,500 - $8,500 | $25,000 - $50,000+ |
| Timeline | 3-5 days | 3-8 weeks |
| Kitchen Disruption | Minimal | Major - unusable |
| ROI on Home Value | 75-100% | 50-75% |
| Environmental Impact | Low - no waste | High - landfill waste |
| Layout Changes | Not possible | Possible |
| Result Quality | Factory-like finish | New cabinets |
| Warranty | 2 years | 1-5 years |
Cost Breakdown
Cabinet Refinishing
$3,500 - $8,500
- All-inclusive pricing
- No hidden fees
- Financing available
Cabinet Replacement
$25,000 - $50,000+
- Multiple contractors needed
- Unexpected costs common
- Permits may be required
Timeline Comparison
Refinishing Timeline
Door & drawer removal, cleaning, initial prep
Sanding, priming, grain filling (if needed)
First coat of paint, drying time
Second coat, touch-ups
Final coat, reinstallation, cleanup
Your kitchen remains functional throughout most of the process.
Replacement Timeline
Measurements, cabinet ordering
Waiting for cabinet delivery
Demo of old cabinets
Installation begins
Finishing, countertops, plumbing
Kitchen completely unusable during installation week(s).
Environmental Impact
Refinishing: Eco-Friendly Choice
- Zero cabinet waste to landfills
- Preserves existing wood resources
- Low-VOC paint options available
- Minimal transportation footprint
- Supports sustainable renovation
Replacement: Environmental Cost
- Old cabinets sent to landfill (500+ lbs)
- New wood/materials harvested
- Manufacturing emissions
- Long-distance shipping common
- Packaging waste
When Replacement Makes Sense
We believe in honest advice. Here's when you should consider new cabinets instead:
Structural Damage
If cabinet boxes are warped, water-damaged, or falling apart, refinishing won't solve structural issues.
Layout Changes Needed
Want to change your kitchen layout? New cabinets allow for reconfiguration of your space.
Particle Board Cabinets
Low-quality particle board doesn't hold paint well and may not be worth the investment.
Not sure? We offer free consultations to help you decide the best option for your home.