How Much Does It Cost To Refinish Kitchen Cabinets: A Full Guide

How much does it cost to refinish kitchen cabinets? Refinishing kitchen cabinets typically costs between $1,200 and $7,000, depending on the size of your kitchen, the complexity of the job, and whether you DIY or hire professionals. This guide explores all the factors affecting the cabinet refinishing cost, so you can make the best decision for your budget and kitchen.

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Is Refinishing Right for Your Kitchen?

Refinishing your kitchen cabinets is a fantastic way to breathe new life into your space without the hefty price tag of a full remodel. But before you dive in, it’s important to assess whether refinishing is the right choice for your cabinets and your budget.

Benefits of Refinishing

• Cost Savings: Refinishing is significantly cheaper than replacing cabinets.
• Eco-Friendly: It reduces waste by reusing existing materials.
• Customization: You can choose new colors and finishes.
• Less Disruptive: Refinishing is typically quicker and less disruptive than a full kitchen remodel.

When Refinishing Might Not Be the Best Option

• Damaged Cabinets: If your cabinets are warped, rotting, or structurally unsound, replacement might be a better option.
• Outdated Layout: Refinishing won’t change the layout of your kitchen. If you’re unhappy with the current configuration, consider a remodel.
• Desire for a Completely New Look: Refinishing primarily focuses on the surface. If you want drastically different cabinet styles or materials, replacement is necessary.

Key Factors Affecting Cabinet Refinishing Cost

Several factors influence the total cabinet refinishing cost. Let’s break them down:

Size of the Kitchen

The larger your kitchen, the more cabinets you have, and the more materials and labor will be needed. Expect higher costs for kitchens with numerous cabinets, drawers, and intricate designs.

Cabinet Material

The type of material your cabinets are made of significantly impacts the price.

• Solid Wood: Typically the most expensive to refinish due to the extensive prep work required.
• Veneer: More delicate and require careful handling, potentially increasing labor costs.
• Laminate: Can be difficult to refinish, and not all finishes adhere well.
• MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard): Requires special primers and paints designed for non-wood surfaces.

Condition of the Cabinets

Cabinets in poor condition will require more prep work, which increases the overall cost.

• Grease and Grime: Requires thorough cleaning and degreasing.
• Chips and Scratches: Need to be filled and sanded.
• Loose Hinges and Hardware: May need to be repaired or replaced.
• Existing Finish: Removing a thick or stubborn existing finish can add to labor costs.

Choice of Finish

The type of finish you choose will also affect the price.

• Paint: Offers a wide range of colors and finishes, but may require multiple coats. The cost to paint kitchen cabinets yourself will largely be the cost of the paint and supplies.
• Stain: Enhances the natural wood grain but requires careful application.
• Varnish or Lacquer: Provides a durable, protective finish, but may require specialized equipment.
• Glaze: Adds depth and dimension but requires extra labor.

DIY vs. Professional Refinishing

One of the biggest decisions affecting cost is whether to refinish the cabinets yourself (DIY) or hire a professional.

• DIY Cabinet Refinishing Cost: Significantly cheaper if you already have the tools and skills. Primarily includes the cost of materials.
• Cost of Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets Professionally: More expensive, but ensures a high-quality, long-lasting finish. Also saves you time and effort.

Labor Costs

If you hire professionals, labor costs will be a significant portion of the total cost. Labor rates can vary depending on your location and the contractor’s experience.

• Hourly Rate: Some contractors charge an hourly rate, typically between $50 and $100 per hour.
• Project-Based Rate: Others charge a flat fee per project, which may be preferable if you want a fixed cost estimate.

Additional Costs

Don’t forget to factor in these potential additional costs:

• Hardware Replacement: New knobs, pulls, and hinges can refresh the look of your cabinets but add to the cost.
• Cabinet Door Refinishing Cost: Refinishing cabinet doors often costs more per piece than the cabinet frames due to the detailed work involved.
• Disposal Fees: If you’re removing old hardware or disposing of materials, there may be disposal fees.
• Permits: In some areas, you may need permits for kitchen renovations, even for refinishing.

Breaking Down the Costs: DIY vs. Professional

Let’s compare the costs of DIY refinishing versus hiring professionals.

DIY Cabinet Refinishing Cost Breakdown

Item	Estimated Cost	Notes
Cleaning Supplies	$20 – $50	Degreaser, TSP (Trisodium Phosphate), rags, sponges
Sandpaper	$15 – $30	Various grits, sanding blocks or orbital sander
Primer	$20 – $40	Oil-based or water-based primer, depending on the finish
Paint or Stain	$50 – $150	High-quality cabinet paint or stain
Brushes and Rollers	$20 – $40	High-quality brushes, rollers, and paint trays
Drop Cloths and Tape	$15 – $30	To protect surfaces from paint spills
Wood Filler	$10 – $20	For filling holes and imperfections
Hardware (Optional)	$50 – $200+	New knobs, pulls, and hinges
Total	$200 – $600+	Depending on the size of the kitchen and the quality of materials used. This is the cost to paint kitchen cabinets yourself on average.

Pros:

• Significantly cheaper.
• Flexibility to work at your own pace.
• Sense of accomplishment.

Cons:

• Time-consuming and labor-intensive.
• Requires skills and experience.
• Potential for mistakes.
• Can take several days or weeks to complete.

Professional Cabinet Refinishing Cost Breakdown

Item	Estimated Cost	Notes
Labor	$1,000 – $5,000+	Includes prep work, refinishing, and installation
Materials	$200 – $700+	Includes cleaning supplies, sandpaper, primer, paint, and other materials
Hardware (Optional)	$50 – $200+	New knobs, pulls, and hinges
Total	$1,200 – $7,000+	Depending on the size of the kitchen, the complexity of the job, and the contractor’s rates. This range represents average cost to refinish cabinets.

Pros:

• High-quality, professional finish.
• Saves time and effort.
• Less disruptive to your daily life.
• Warranty on workmanship.

Cons:

• More expensive.
• Requires careful selection of a reputable contractor.
• Less control over the process.

Cabinet Refinishing Cost Estimator

Here is a simple table summarizing the average cost to refinish cabinets based on kitchen size:

Kitchen Size	Estimated Cost Range (DIY)	Estimated Cost Range (Professional)
Small (e.g., Apartment)	$200 – $400	$1,200 – $3,000
Medium (Average Home)	$300 – $500	$3,000 – $5,000
Large (e.g., Luxury Home)	$500 – $700+	$5,000 – $7,000+

Note: These are rough estimates. Get quotes from multiple contractors for a more accurate assessment.

Step-by-Step Guide to DIY Cabinet Refinishing

If you decide to tackle cabinet refinishing yourself, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve professional-looking results:

1. Preparation:
   • Remove cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware.
   • Label each piece for easy reinstallation.
   • Clean all surfaces thoroughly with a degreaser or TSP.
2. Sanding:
   • Sand all surfaces with medium-grit sandpaper (120-150 grit) to remove the existing finish.
   • Smooth out any imperfections with fine-grit sandpaper (220 grit).
   • Wipe away sanding dust with a tack cloth.
3. Repairing:
   • Fill any holes, chips, or scratches with wood filler.
   • Let the filler dry completely and sand smooth.
4. Priming:
   • Apply a thin, even coat of primer to all surfaces.
   • Use a high-quality brush or roller designed for cabinets.
   • Let the primer dry completely.
5. Painting/Staining:
   • Apply the first coat of paint or stain.
   • Let it dry completely.
   • Sand lightly with fine-grit sandpaper between coats.
   • Apply a second coat for full coverage.
6. Finishing:
   • Apply a clear topcoat (varnish or lacquer) for added protection.
   • Let it dry completely.
7. Reassembly:
   • Reinstall hardware and reattach doors and drawers.

Finding a Reputable Professional

If you choose to hire professionals, follow these tips to find a reputable contractor:

• Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain estimates from at least three different contractors.
• Check References: Ask for and contact previous clients.
• Read Reviews: Check online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, and Angie’s List.
• Verify Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the contractor is licensed and insured.
• Review the Contract: Carefully read the contract before signing, paying attention to payment terms, warranties, and project timelines.
• Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the process, materials, and potential challenges.

Refinishing Cabinets vs. Replacing Cabinets

Let’s analyze when it makes sense to refinish vs. replace your kitchen cabinets:

Refinishing

Pros:

• Lower cost.
• Faster completion time.
• Less disruptive.
• Environmentally friendly.

Cons:

• Doesn’t address structural issues.
• Limited design changes.
• May not be suitable for all cabinet materials.

Replacing

Pros:

• Opportunity to change the layout.
• New cabinet styles and materials.
• Addresses structural issues.
• Increases home value.

Cons:

• Higher cost.
• Longer completion time.
• More disruptive.
• Generates more waste.

Maintaining Your Refinished Cabinets

To keep your refinished cabinets looking their best, follow these maintenance tips:

• Clean Regularly: Wipe down cabinets regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap.
• Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that can damage the finish.
• Touch Up Scratches: Use touch-up paint or stain to repair minor scratches or chips.
• Tighten Hardware: Periodically tighten loose knobs, pulls, and hinges.
• Protect from Moisture: Wipe up spills promptly to prevent water damage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the best paint for refinishing kitchen cabinets?

  The best paint for kitchen cabinets is typically a high-quality acrylic latex paint or a specialized cabinet paint. These paints offer good adhesion, durability, and a smooth finish.

• Can I refinish laminate cabinets?

  Yes, you can refinish laminate cabinets, but it requires careful preparation and the use of specialized primers and paints designed for non-wood surfaces.

• What is the average cost to refinish cabinets?

  The average cost to refinish cabinets ranges from $1,200 to $7,000, depending on the size of the kitchen, the complexity of the job, and whether you DIY or hire professionals.

• Is it cheaper to paint or stain kitchen cabinets?

  Painting and staining are often similar in cost, though paint may have a slight edge because it can hide imperfections better than stain and requires less prep work. However, the specific type of paint or stain you choose will also affect the price.

• How long does it take to refinish kitchen cabinets?

  DIY cabinet refinishing can take several days or even weeks, depending on your pace and skill level. Professional refinishing typically takes 3-7 days.

• What are the signs that my cabinets need to be replaced instead of refinished?

  Signs that your cabinets need replacement include structural damage (warping, rotting), severe water damage, and a desire to change the layout of your kitchen.

• What is the cabinet refinishing cost estimator?

  A cabinet refinishing cost estimator is a tool (often a spreadsheet or online calculator) that helps you estimate the cost of refinishing your kitchen cabinets based on factors like kitchen size, cabinet material, and DIY vs. professional refinishing. The estimator provided above can be a starting point.