Kitchen Remodel · Repair, replace or choose · Updated November 2026
Cabinet Refacing vs. Replacement: Costs and Trade-Offs
Refacing keeps your existing cabinet boxes and covers them with new veneer, doors and drawer fronts. Replacement tears everything out. Refacing typically costs $4,270–$10,200, while new cabinets are priced by the linear foot and usually cost more.
Cost comparison
| Option | Typical cost | What changes |
|---|---|---|
| Cabinet refinishing or painting | $1,900–$4,500 | Finish only; same doors and boxes |
| Cabinet refacing | $4,270–$10,200 | New doors, drawer fronts, veneer and hardware; same boxes and layout |
| Stock cabinets, installed | $100–$300 per linear ft. | Everything; standard sizes |
| Custom cabinets, installed | $500–$1,200+ per linear ft. | Everything; built to fit |
From our kitchen remodel cost guide.
When refacing makes sense
- The cabinet boxes are solid: no water damage, sagging shelves or loose joints.
- You like the layout and do not need more storage.
- You want a new look with less mess and time than a full tear-out.
- Countertops can stay in place, or you are replacing them anyway.
When replacement is the better choice
- Boxes are damaged, especially under the sink.
- You want to change the layout, add an island or move appliances.
- You need different cabinet heights or deeper drawers.
- Particleboard boxes are swelling or falling apart.
Do not forget the countertops
Replacing cabinets usually means replacing countertops too, which adds $1,870–$4,400 (countertop cost by material). Refacing can often leave the countertops in place. For a cheaper update, see painting vs. refacing.
Cost figures are national ranges from the sources listed in our kitchen remodel cost guide, not a quote from FixFinch or any contractor.