Cabinetry can be fixed using one of two primary techniques: resurfacing or replacement. Choosing the best option requires weighing the pros and cons of each.
If you are tired of your outdated kitchen cabinetry,
you have two basic options: replace it or resurface it. Both can provide excellent results, but you should weigh your options carefully before making your final decision.
Benefits of Resurfacing
Resurfacing your cabinetry can look great. In fact, sometimes it looks as good as a full replacement. It is a lot more affordable, however, because you are not adding completely new wood to your entire kitchen.
Resurfacing also does not require you to completely unpack your kitchen, so it disrupts your life much less. It is much quicker, so you can have your functional kitchen in just a few days.
Finally, because you are not removing and disposing of working wood, this process is easier on the environment. Most people end up discarding their old cabinets when they opt for a replacement, and this is wasteful and not eco-friendly. Resurfacing allows you to recycle what you already have.
Drawbacks of Resurfacing
Resurfacing does not work when you want to change the layout of your kitchen cabinetry. After all, if you are changing the image of your cabinets, they are going to stay where they are. It also does not make sense to invest money into cabinets in poor condition or that were poorly made. In these cases, you are probably better off with a complete replacement.
Benefits of Replacement
When you opt to have your cabinets replaced instead of resurfaced, you can ensure that it looks exactly how you want it to. You will have the flexibility to remodel the kitchen a little, adding a pantry if needed or opening up some counter space. The final look will be completely streamlined and professional, and you will have the certainty that comes from knowing exactly what type of rood your cabinets are made from.
Replacing cabinets allows you to get rid of any that are damaged or worn out. Poorly constructed cabinets are not a problem when you opt for replacement. Even if all of your cabinets are in great shape but one, resurfacing may be challenging. In this case, replacement allows for a unified, professional look.
Drawbacks of Replacement
Replacing cabinetry is the more expensive of the two options. Even if you choose the cheapest products for your new cabinets, you are going to pay more than you would pay to have them resurfaced. If money is tight, this can be a serious drawback.
Removing and rebuilding cabinets takes a lot of time. Plan to have your kitchen out of commission for several weeks while you have this done. For some people, this simply will not work. If you cannot have your kitchen out of commission, then plan to have your cabinetry resurfaced instead of replaced. In the end, the choice is yours and may come down to budgetary needs, but always weigh all of the options before you make a choice.
