Thinking about refacing your cabinets? Surprisingly, there are many misconceptions about this process. For one, many believe refacing is just a “quick fix” that doesn’t address underlying problems, so getting new cabinets is better. Others think refacing offers little personalization.
We’re here to debunk these cabinet refacing myths. Let’s examine some pressing kitchen refacing misconceptions and explain why quality refacing is, in reality, a wise investment that offers long-term benefits to homeowners like yourself.
Common Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Myths—Debunked
Myth #1: Refacing Limits Your Design Options
Those unfamiliar with modern solid wood refacing think there are few options in styles and colors when you choose to reface your existing cabinets. This is simply not true! For example, American Wood Reface offers dozens of door styles, countless solid colors and transparent wood finishes, all available in eight different wood species. The possible combinations are endless and ensure you find the perfect design to suit your style.
Some people believe that cabinet refacing prevents them from changing their layout or cabinet function, and even if they replace cabinet doors and drawer fronts, they’ll still be stuck with the same boxes. So, why not replace everything?
What they don’t realize is that quality solid wood refacing is highly customizable. During kitchen remodels, a skilled refacer, such as American Wood Reface, can relocate appliances, increase space for larger appliances, reconfigure cabinets for different functions, extend cabinets to the ceiling, add new cabinets, build islands, extend, raise, or lower countertops, build more storage spaces, and much more. Unlike the limited options of box-store replacement cabinets, the masterful carpenters of American Wood Reface can create nearly anything you can envision. Leave it to us to turn your dreams—however complex—into reality.
Myth #2: Refacing is Just a Quick, Temporary Fix
Preserving existing cabinet boxes sometimes leads homeowners to believe that refacing doesn’t address the problems with their old cabinets. As a result, they might be more inclined to opt for a complete cabinet replacement instead.
On the contrary, a quality refacing contractor that uses ¼” select-grade solid hardwood provides a high-caliber installation that ensures your cabinetry lasts the life of your home. In fact, American Wood Reface offers a Limited Lifetime Homeowner Warranty to back that up. We also utilize advanced finishing technology to provide superior protection against moisture and scratches, as well as premium cabinet hardware and other upgrades that extend the lifespan of refaced cabinets.
Myth #3: Refacing Doesn’t Improve Your Home’s Value
Some homeowners think refacing has little to no impact on their property value. After all, it’s a simple matter of changing cabinet exteriors to make them look good, so it shouldn’t make a significant difference. Here’s where they’d be wrong.
Many people (41.44%) agree that kitchens are the most important rooms in a home. This means any upgrade you make, including custom cabinet refacing, enhances a home’s value over time.
American Wood Reface uses premium materials, such as ¼” select-grade solid wood, advanced finishes, and high-quality hardware to achieve the appeal of upscale furniture. This, along with expert customization and enhanced functionality, creates a beautiful kitchen that inspires high buyer demand and increased value at sale.
Myth #4: Refacing is Just a Cosmetic Upgrade
Typical wood refacing involves replacing doors, drawer faces, and hardware, sometimes – but not always—covering or refurbishing cabinet boxes. So, it’s no surprise that a common cabinet refacing myth is that it’s only a cosmetic upgrade, leading many to opt for a complete replacement instead.
However, the best refacers cover all sides of the cabinets, including the bottoms of uppers, with matching-finish wood for a clean, seamless appearance as well as optimal structural integrity. The ultimate refacing company, such as American Wood Reface, also installs additional enhancements, such as crown molding and other trim, under- or interior-cabinet lighting, new stone countertops, backsplashes, and much more. The addition of optional dovetailed drawer boxes, new matching shelves, as well as storage and functionality features further enhances the usability of the space, creating a comprehensive overhaul of the kitchen’s appearance and function.
If we had to choose between refacing vs. replacing cabinets, the former is more adaptable and beneficial over time.
Myth #5: Refacing is a DIY-Friendly Option
Cabinet refacing seems easy enough, so why not do it yourself and save on labor costs? Many budget-conscious homeowners follow this mindset – and rightly so. But refacing is a specialized skill, taking years to perfect. “Winging it” often leads to rookie mistakes, timeline extensions, and other expenses that end up costing more than hiring a qualified contractor.
This is why professional refacing is far superior to DIY in this instance. Expert contractors like American Wood Reface have spent decades perfecting their skills and craftsmanship. Such expertise reduces errors and increases efficiency, saving you time and money in the long run.
Enjoy the Benefits of Refacing with American Wood Reface
Cabinet refacing might seem impractical, but it’s quite the opposite. It’s a quick and cost-effective way to elevate your kitchen far beyond a simple appearance upgrade. Now that we’ve debunked some cabinet refacing myths, use this knowledge to determine whether it suits your needs.
If you’re curious to learn more about refacing, give us a call. American Wood Reface offers high-quality and long-lasting cabinet transformations, using premium 1/4″ solid select-grade wood and new hand-crafted doors to ensure your refreshed cabinetry stands the test of time.
