5 Ways to Restyle Your Kitchen Cabinets If your kitchen cabinets are outdated and unattractive,…
5 Useful Tips To Know Before Updating Your Kitchen Cabinets
Kitchen cabinets are one of the most visible and functional parts of your home.
Whether you want to update your cabinetry for a modern look or are considering upgrading them to add storage options, the right approach can completely transform your space.
Join our Raleigh cabinet refacing experts from Cabinet Cures of the Triangle as we explore five useful tips homeowners should know before investing in kitchen cabinet upgrades.
Table of Contents
- 1. Set Clear Goals Before Updating Kitchen Cabinets
- 2. Know Your Budget for Upgrading Kitchen Cabinets
- 3. Choose Between Refacing, Painting, or Replacing
- 4. Don’t Overlook Hardware and Hinges
- 5. Consider the Impact of Lighting
- Updating Kitchen Cabinet FAQs
- Contact Our Raleigh Cabinet Refacing Experts
1. Set Clear Goals Before Updating Kitchen Cabinets
Before starting your project, think carefully about what you want to achieve. Defining goals will help you make smarter choices and avoid unnecessary costs.
Deciding Between a Cosmetic Refresh vs Full Overhaul
Deciding between a cosmetic refresh and a complete kitchen cabinet overhaul is the first step in planning your kitchen remodeling project. A cosmetic refresh, such as painting, refacing, or swapping out hardware, works for cabinets that are structurally sound but just outdated in appearance.
A full overhaul, on the other hand, might be necessary if your cabinets are damaged or if you want to completely change your kitchen’s layout.
Functionality Needs
Think about how you use your kitchen daily and what frustrates you most about your current setup. For some homeowners, that may be a lack of storage for pots and pans, while for others it could be the need for better accessibility with pull-out drawers and shelves.
Align with Your Kitchen’s Style
Your cabinets should harmonize with your overall kitchen style and home architecture. For instance, shaker-style cabinets might look perfect in a Craftsman home, while sleek flat-front cabinets better suit modern spaces. Paying attention to style consistency ensures your updates enhance rather than clash with your home’s design.
2. Know Your Budget for Upgrading Kitchen Cabinets
Budgeting is one of the most important steps when planning to upgrade kitchen cabinets.
Knowing cost ranges ahead of time will help you plan your project realistically.
Typical Cost Ranges
Costs can vary widely depending on the type of update you choose. Painting your cabinets or refinishing to upgrade kitchen cabinets usually ranges from $2,000–$5,000, while cabinet refacing generally falls between $7,000–$15,000.
Full cabinet replacements, especially custom ones, can start at $15,000 and climb much higher depending on the size of the kitchen and chosen materials.
Hidden Costs to Consider
Many homeowners overlook additional expenses that can creep in during the process of upgrading kitchen cabinets. Hardware upgrades, labor fees, and minor modifications to accommodate new layouts can all increase your total cost.
Maximizing ROI
Not all upgrades are equal when it comes to resale value, so it’s important to invest wisely. By balancing aesthetic preferences like color and style with functionality, you’ll get the best return on your investment.
3. Choose Between Refacing, Painting, or Replacing
When updating kitchen cabinets, homeowners usually choose one of three options: refacing, painting, or replacing.
Each comes with unique pros and cons.
Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing involves keeping the existing cabinet boxes but replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware. This approach is less invasive than a full remodel, making it a faster and more budget-friendly option.
For many homeowners, kitchen cabinet refacing strikes the perfect balance between cost savings and a refreshed appearance.
Cabinet Painting
Painting your cabinets is one of the most popular choices for a quick, dramatic transformation. While it’s the least expensive option, painted cabinets require regular maintenance and can chip or fade over time.
Cabinet Replacement
Replacing cabinets requires the biggest budget and time commitment. With replacement, you can change your kitchen’s layout entirely, improve functionality, and choose materials that suit your exact needs.
4. Don’t Overlook Hardware and Hinges When Upgrading Kitchen Cabinets
Small details like knobs, pulls, and hinges can transform the overall look of your kitchen.
New Hardware for Modern Style
Swapping out outdated or worn handles for new hardware instantly modernizes your cabinets.
It’s a small upgrade that can make a big visual difference, especially if you choose finishes that complement your kitchen’s style.
Soft-Close Hinges
Soft-close hinges and drawer glides are a must-have for any modern kitchen upgrade.
Not only do they prevent slamming doors and drawers, but they also extend the life of your cabinets by reducing wear and tear.
Many homeowners also love the added sense of luxury and quiet these features provide.
Trending Finishes
When selecting hardware finishes, it’s important to think about both cabinet color trends and timelessness.
Matte black is currently very popular, offering a bold look that pairs beautifully with light or dark cabinets.
Brushed nickel remains a versatile choice that never goes out of style, while brass and gold finishes bring warmth and sophistication.
5. Consider the Impact of Lighting on Updated Kitchen Cabinets
Lighting is often overlooked, but it can completely change how your kitchen cabinets look and function.
Under-Cabinet Lighting
Under-cabinet lighting adds both beauty and practicality to your kitchen.
It provides direct task lighting for cooking while also creating a warm, inviting ambiance in the evenings.
LED Options
LED lighting has become the go-to choice for upgrading kitchen cabinets because it is energy-efficient, long-lasting, and versatile.
Options range from dimmable white lights to color-changing strips that allow you to set the mood.
Updating Kitchen Cabinet FAQs
How long does it take to upgrade kitchen cabinets?
Painting or refacing cabinets typically takes between three to seven days, with a full cabinet replacement often lasting several weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and installation.
Is it better to paint or replace old cabinets?
Painting can provide a quick refresh, but it often falls short in durability—painted cabinets are prone to chipping, peeling, and fading, especially in high-use kitchens. Full replacement is best if your cabinets are damaged or you want a new layout, but it comes with a higher cost. For most homeowners, cabinet refacing is the ideal middle ground—it offers a like-new look that’s longer-lasting than paint and far more affordable than a full replacement.
Will updating my kitchen cabinets increase home value?
Yes—kitchen updates are one of the top improvements that appeal to potential buyers. Even minor cabinet upgrades like new finishes or modern hardware can increase your home’s value.
Can I DIY or should I hire a professional?
Some updates, like changing hardware or painting a small set of cabinets, can be tackled by confident DIYers. However, larger projects such as cabinet refacing or full replacements require precision and expertise to avoid costly mistakes. Hiring a professional ensures quality results and peace of mind.
Contact Our Raleigh Cabinet Refacing Experts Today
Updating kitchen cabinets is one of the most effective ways to transform your home. For Raleigh homeowners, the right cabinet updates can refresh your space today and add lasting value for years to come.
Learn more about our kitchen cabinet refacing services by calling us at 919–809–6161 or completing our contact form below to receive a FREE estimate today.
Request a Quote Form
We would love to hear from you! Please fill out this form and we will get back to you shortly.
"*" indicates required fields