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Reface or Replace: What is the Best Option for Your Kitchen Cabinetry Update

Damaged or outdated cabinets and drawers in your kitchen can compromise the look and feel of the whole space. But what is the best way to fix them?

When your kitchen cabinets or drawers are damaged or outdated, it affects the whole look of your space. If the damage is minor, a simple repair might do. However, if the damage is extensive or the cabinets look really old, you may need a different solution.

At this point, most people wonder whether it’s better to reface kitchen cabinets or replace them. Which option is the best and most budget-friendly?

Beautiful white cabinetry in a modern open plan kitchen

Reface vs. Replace

Think of refacing cabinetry as a much-needed facelift for your kitchen. It’s like giving your old cabinets a stylish makeover. To reface cabinets, the doors and hardware are removed from the existing frames and swapped out for something fresh and new. It’s a quick way to reface the kitchen and give it a whole new personality without gutting the entire space.

Replacing, on the other hand, is a complete kitchen renovation. You say goodbye to your old cabinets entirely, frames and all, and welcome a new custom-built kitchen. While it’s a bigger project, it gives you the chance to completely rethink and redesign your kitchen layout.

Whether you go for a reface or full replacement, you’re bound to give your space the stylish upgrade it deserves.

The Benefits of Cabinet Refacing

Lots of storage in a newly renovated kitchen

Good as a Cosmetic Upgrade

If your current cabinetry is in good shape and functions well, then a kitchen reface is the perfect cosmetic upgrade. It’s like giving your kitchen a quick facelift without the hassles.

Lower Costs

A kitchen reface costs lower than a full replacement. With less labour and fewer materials needed, it’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on style.

A Quicker Upgrade

Refacing cabinets is a speedy process since only the exterior parts are changed. With the right professional help, your kitchen can get a fresh look in no time.

Not for the Faint-Hearted

Unless you’re a seasoned tradesperson, refacing kitchen cabinets is best left to the professionals. It takes an expert to assess your cabinetry and deliver the perfect reface solution. Leave it to the pros for a flawless finish.

The Benefits of Replacing

Total Refresh

Opting to replace kitchen cabinets gives your entire kitchen a fresh, new look, but new cabinets may not match old elements. A full renovation is generally the best solution to harmonise your space.

Upgraded Functionality

When you replace kitchen cabinetry, you get the chance to rethink, redesign, and enhance the functionality, storage, and appearance of your kitchen. It’s your opportunity to plan and create the kitchen you’ve always wanted.

When Refacing is Not an Option

Sometimes, a kitchen reface isn’t feasible. If your cabinets are badly damaged, have interior rot, or are simply too old, replacing them might be your only option.

Value Added

Replacing generally adds more value to your home compared to just refacing. A well-executed kitchen renovation is an investment that will increase the value of your home.

Still Unsure? Contact Nouvelle to Make an Informed Decision

Nouvelle has been renovating kitchens and bathrooms for over 30 years. Our expert kitchen designers are ready to help—they know how to maximise your space, design to reflect your lifestyle, and keep everything within your budget and timeline. We handle all the headaches, so you can enjoy your stunning new kitchen, whether refaced or replaced, without the stress.

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