How Much Cost to Refinish Kitchen Cabinets? DIY vs. Pro

Are you wondering how much it costs to refinish your kitchen cabinets? The kitchen cabinet refinishing price can range widely. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred dollars for a DIY job to several thousand dollars if you hire a professional. This guide breaks down the average cost to refinish cabinets, comparing DIY cabinet refinishing cost versus the cost to paint kitchen cabinets professionally, and explores cheap cabinet refinishing options while explaining kitchen cabinet staining cost too. We’ll even touch on when refinishing kitchen cabinets vs replacing them is the best option and briefly cover the cost to reface kitchen cabinets.

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Estimating Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Costs

Several factors influence the overall kitchen cabinet refinishing price. The size of your kitchen, the material of your cabinets, the complexity of the design, and whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional all play a significant role. Here’s a deeper dive:

Key Cost Factors

• Size of the Kitchen: Larger kitchens with more cabinets naturally require more materials and labor.
• Cabinet Material: Solid wood cabinets are generally more expensive to refinish than laminate or veneer.
• Cabinet Condition: Heavily damaged cabinets requiring extensive repairs will increase the overall cost.
• Desired Finish: A simple paint job is often less expensive than a complex staining and sealing process.
• DIY vs. Professional: DIY saves on labor costs but requires your time and effort. Professionals charge for labor but bring expertise and efficiency.

Average Cost Breakdown

Item	DIY Cost (Approximate)	Professional Cost (Approximate)
Materials (Paint, stain, etc.)	$100 – $500	$200 – $700
Supplies (Sandpaper, brushes, etc.)	$50 – $150	Included in labor cost
Labor	Your time!	$30 – $75 per hour
Total Cost	$150 – $650	$1,000 – $5,000+

Important Note: These figures are estimates. The actual cost will vary depending on your specific situation. You can find a more tailored quote using a cabinet refinishing cost calculator available online.

DIY Cabinet Refinishing: A Step-by-Step Guide

Refinishing your cabinets yourself can be a rewarding, cost-effective project. However, it requires patience, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn.

Preparing Your Kitchen

• Empty the Cabinets: Remove all items from inside your cabinets and drawers.
• Remove Hardware: Take off all knobs, pulls, hinges, and other hardware. Store them in a safe place.
• Protect Your Workspace: Cover countertops, floors, and appliances with drop cloths or plastic sheeting.
• Good Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area.

Cleaning and Sanding

• Clean Thoroughly: Wash the cabinets with a degreasing cleaner to remove grease, grime, and dirt.
• Rinse and Dry: Rinse the cabinets with clean water and allow them to dry completely.
• Sand the Surface: Use sandpaper (typically 120-grit followed by 220-grit) to create a smooth, even surface for the new finish to adhere to.
• Dust Removal: Thoroughly remove all sanding dust with a tack cloth or vacuum.

Applying the Finish

• Priming: Apply a primer coat to the cabinets to improve adhesion and create a uniform base for the paint or stain.
• Painting/Staining: Apply your chosen paint or stain in thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.
• Sealing (Optional): Apply a clear topcoat to protect the finish and add durability.

Reassembly

• Reattach Hardware: Once the finish is completely dry, reattach the hardware.
• Replace Doors and Drawers: Reinstall the doors and drawers, ensuring they are properly aligned.
• Clean Up: Remove all drop cloths and plastic sheeting, and clean up your workspace.

DIY Cabinet Refinishing: Material Cost

Here’s a more detailed estimation of DIY cabinet refinishing costs:

Material	Estimated Cost
Cleaner/Degreaser	$10 – $20
Sandpaper	$10 – $20
Primer	$20 – $40
Paint/Stain	$50 – $200
Brushes/Rollers	$20 – $40
Tack Cloths/Rags	$10 – $20
Protective Gear	$10 – $20
Total (Approx.)	$130 – $360

Professional Cabinet Refinishing: What to Expect

Hiring a professional offers several advantages, including expertise, efficiency, and a guaranteed quality finish. However, it also comes at a higher cost.

The Professional Process

• Consultation and Estimate: A professional will assess your cabinets, discuss your desired finish, and provide a detailed estimate.
• Preparation: They will protect your kitchen, remove hardware, and thoroughly clean and sand the cabinets.
• Professional Application: They will apply the finish using professional-grade equipment and techniques.
• Cleanup: They will clean up the work area and dispose of all waste materials.

Factors Affecting Professional Costs

• Labor Rates: Labor costs vary depending on location and the experience of the professional.
• Materials Used: The quality of the paint or stain and other materials will affect the overall cost.
• Complexity of the Job: Intricate designs, extensive repairs, or custom finishes will increase the price.

Average Cost To Refinish Cabinets Professionally

Service	Cost (Approximate)
Consultation/Estimate	Free
Material Costs	$200 – $700
Labor Costs (per cabinet door)	$75 – $150+
Labor Costs (per cabinet)	$150 – $300+
Total Cost (Average)	$1,000 – $5,000+

Cabinet refinishing cost per linear foot can also be used as an estimation tool. Expect to pay anywhere from $50 to $150 per linear foot for professional refinishing, depending on the complexity and chosen materials.

Grasping the Differences: DIY vs. Pro

Choosing between DIY and professional refinishing depends on your budget, skill level, and available time.

DIY Pros

• Cost Savings: Significant savings on labor costs.
• Flexibility: Work at your own pace and schedule.
• Personal Satisfaction: The satisfaction of completing the project yourself.

DIY Cons

• Time Commitment: Refinishing cabinets can be a time-consuming project.
• Skill Required: Requires patience, attention to detail, and some level of DIY skills.
• Potential for Mistakes: Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming to fix.

Professional Pros

• Expertise and Experience: Professionals have the knowledge and experience to ensure a high-quality finish.
• Efficiency: Professionals can complete the job much faster than DIYers.
• Guaranteed Results: Professionals typically offer a warranty or guarantee on their work.

Professional Cons

• Higher Cost: Labor costs can significantly increase the overall price.
• Less Control: You may have less control over the process and materials used.
• Scheduling: You need to schedule the work around the professional’s availability.

Cheap Cabinet Refinishing Options

If you’re on a tight budget, several cheap cabinet refinishing options can help you update your kitchen without breaking the bank.

Consider these strategies:

• Painting vs. Staining: Painting is generally less expensive than staining, as it requires less surface preparation.
• Refacing instead of Refinishing: While this guide is about refinishing, consider refacing if your cabinet boxes are in good shape. It is usually cheaper than replacing all cabinets but more expensive than refinishing.
• Minimal Changes: Keep the original hardware or opt for inexpensive replacements.
• Limited DIY: Tackle the easier tasks yourself (cleaning, sanding) and hire a professional for the finishing touches.

Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets vs Replacing

Sometimes, refinishing is not the best option. If your cabinets are severely damaged, warped, or outdated in style, replacing them may be a better long-term investment.

When to Refinish

• Cabinets are structurally sound.
• You like the existing cabinet style.
• You want to update the color or finish.
• You are on a limited budget.

When to Replace

• Cabinets are damaged beyond repair.
• You want to change the cabinet style.
• You are planning a major kitchen renovation.
• You have a larger budget.

Interpreting Kitchen Cabinet Staining Cost

If you opt for staining, be prepared for a potentially higher cost compared to painting. Kitchen cabinet staining cost depends on the wood type, the desired stain color, and the number of coats required. Staining requires more prep work to ensure the stain penetrates evenly and highlights the natural wood grain.

Fathoming Cabinet Refacing Costs

Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts and applying a new veneer to the existing cabinet boxes. While not the focus of this guide, it’s worth noting that cost to reface kitchen cabinets typically falls somewhere between refinishing and replacing, offering a middle-ground option. Expect to pay $1,000 to $10,000+ depending on the size and complexity of the project.

FAQs About Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing

• How long does it take to refinish kitchen cabinets?

  • DIY projects can take anywhere from a weekend to a week or more, depending on the size of the kitchen and your skill level. Professionals can typically complete the job in 3-5 days.

• What kind of paint is best for kitchen cabinets?

  • Acrylic latex paint is a popular choice for its durability, ease of application, and low VOC content. Oil-based paint offers a harder finish but requires more prep work and longer drying times. Cabinet-specific enamel paints are also excellent options.

• Can I paint laminate cabinets?

  • Yes, you can paint laminate cabinets, but it requires proper preparation. Sanding, priming with a bonding primer, and using a high-quality paint are essential for a successful outcome.

• How do I choose the right stain color?

  • Consider the existing colors in your kitchen, such as countertops, flooring, and appliances. Test different stain colors on a hidden area of your cabinet to see how they look with the wood and lighting.

• Do I need to sand before painting cabinets?

  • Yes, sanding is crucial for creating a smooth surface and helping the primer and paint adhere properly.

• What is the easiest way to refinish kitchen cabinets?

  • Painting is generally considered the easiest way to refinish kitchen cabinets, as it requires less surface preparation than staining. Consider using a paint sprayer for a smoother, more professional finish.

By carefully considering these factors and weighing the pros and cons of DIY versus professional refinishing, you can make an informed decision and achieve beautiful, updated kitchen cabinets without breaking the bank. Remember to obtain multiple quotes if opting for professional services and carefully research all materials before starting any DIY project.