| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Average cost per square foot: $4 – $15 |
| Average total cost: $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Common methods include staining, painting, and glazing |
| Refinishing is generally cheaper than refacing or replacing cabinets |
Refinishing your kitchen cabinets is an economical way to give your kitchen a fresh new look without the expense of installing brand new cabinetry. In this guide, we’ll break down the costs associated with cabinet refinishing and the different methods you can choose from.
Average Cost To Refinish Cabinets
Refinishing kitchen cabinets can vary in cost based on several factors including the size of the kitchen and the chosen method. Here is a general cost breakdown by kitchen size:
| Kitchen Size | Cabinet Square Footage* | Average Cost To Refinish |
|---|---|---|
| Small Kitchen | 150 – 250 | $900 – $2,500 |
| Average Kitchen | 250 – 400 | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Large Kitchen | 400 – 600 | $3,000 – $6,000 |
*Square footage refers to the total surface area of the cabinets to be refinished.
Cost To Refinish Kitchen Cabinets By Method
The method you choose for refinishing your cabinets can significantly affect the overall cost. Here are some of the common methods and their costs:
| Refinishing Method | Cost Per Square Foot | Average Total Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Staining Cabinets | $4 – $15 | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Painting Cabinets | $3 – $15 | $2,000 – $6,500 |
| Glazing Cabinets | $10 – $25 | $2,500 – $10,000 |
Cost To Re-Stain Cabinets
Restaining cabinets involves sanding down the existing finish and applying a new stain. This method is ideal for real wood cabinets and can restore the natural beauty of the wood. Expect to pay between $4 and $15 per square foot.
Painting Kitchen Cabinets
Painting is a versatile option that allows for a wide range of colors and finishes. It is usually the most affordable method, with costs ranging from $3 to $15 per square foot. This method is suitable for various cabinet materials, including MDF and laminate.
Cost To Glaze Wood Cabinets
Glazing adds a semi-transparent coating over a base coat of paint, giving cabinets an antique or vintage look. Due to the additional complexity, glazing tends to be more expensive, with costs between $10 and $25 per square foot.
Cabinet Restoration Cost
Restoration involves extensive work to repair or bring back the original finish of the cabinets. This is usually an option when the cabinets are in poor condition but not beyond saving. Costs typically range from $3,000 to $6,000 for a large kitchen.
Cost Of Bathroom Cabinet Refinishing
Bathroom cabinet refinishing often costs less than kitchen cabinets due to the smaller size. The average cost to refinish bathroom cabinets is around $500 to $1,200, depending on the method and materials used.
Cabinet Refinishing Cost Factors
Several factors influence the cost of refinishing cabinets:
- Kitchen Size: Larger kitchens require more materials and labor.
- Method Chosen: Staining, painting, and glazing have different cost structures.
- Material of Cabinets: Real wood, MDF, laminate, etc., can affect the ease of refinishing.
- Current Condition: Cabinets that need extensive repairs will increase costs.
- Labor Costs: Vary by region and expertise of the contractor.
Is It Cheaper To Refinish, Reface, Or Replace Cabinets?
| Service | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Cabinet Refinishing / Staining | $1,500 – $4,500 |
| Cabinet Refacing Cost | $5,000 – $13,000 |
| Cabinet Replacement Cost | $4,500 – $15,000 |
| Replacing Cabinet Doors Cost | $2,200 – $6,600 |
Refinishing cabinets is generally cheaper than refacing or replacing them entirely. It’s a cost-effective solution that can dramatically improve the look of your kitchen without breaking the bank.
What Is Cabinet Refinishing?
Cabinet refinishing involves sanding down surfaces and applying a new stain, paint, or glaze. This process can reinvigorate old cabinets and give them a fresh, updated appearance without the need for new cabinetry.
Is Refinishing Kitchen Cabinets Worth It?
Refinishing is often worth the investment because:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Cheaper than refacing or replacing cabinets | Sanding creates a lot of dust |
| Updates the kitchen’s look | Can take longer than refacing or replacing |
| Enhances the appearance of real wood | Can’t change the cabinet layout |
| Only works if cabinet boxes and doors are in good shape |
Can I Refinish Or Re-Stain My Kitchen Cabinets?
You can refinish or re-stain many types of cabinets, but some materials are better suited for certain methods.
| Cabinet Surface Material | Stain Or Paint | Paint Only |
|---|---|---|
| Real wood (oak, cherry, maple, etc.) | ✔ | |
| Plywood | ✔ | |
| Wood veneer | ✔ | |
| Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) | ✔ | |
| Laminate / Melamine | ✔ | |
| Thermofoil (RTF) | ✔ | |
| Formica | ✔ |
How Long Does It Take To Refinish Cabinets?
The time required to refinish cabinets can vary based on the method and size of the kitchen. On average, it takes about 3 to 5 days for a professional refinishing job, excluding the time for any additional repairs that may be necessary.
Does Home Depot Refinish Cabinets?
Home Depot offers cabinet refinishing services through its network of licensed contractors. They provide a range of options and can give you an estimate based on your specific needs.
Who Refinishes Kitchen Cabinets?
Several types of professionals can refinish cabinets, including:
- Independent contractors specializing in cabinetry
- Painting companies
- Home improvement stores with specialized services
Getting Estimates From Kitchen Cabinet Refinishers
When looking for a professional to refinish your cabinets, it’s essential to get multiple estimates to compare costs and services.
Questions To Ask
Here are some questions to consider when hiring a cabinet refinisher:
- What methods do you use for refinishing cabinets?
- Can you provide references or examples of past work?
- How long will the project take?
- Is there a warranty or guarantee for the work?
- Do you handle any necessary repairs?
By understanding these aspects of cabinet refinishing, you can make an informed decision that best fits your needs and budget.
