Sacramento Cabinet Refacing gives your bathroom cabinets an entirely new look. It’s more affordable than a full replacement and doesn’t require ripping out existing cabinetry.
But refacing won’t address functional frustrations with your current cabinet layout or repair damaged or warped cabinet boxes. It’s strictly a cosmetic improvement. Here’s what you need to know.
Refresh the Look
Cabinet refacing allows homeowners to update the look of their existing bathroom cabinets without ripping them out and replacing them. The process involves applying thin strips of veneer to the cabinet face frames, mimicking their vertical members (“stiles”) and horizontal ones (“rails”), then installing new cabinet doors that match. The result is a dramatically new look for your cabinets at a fraction of the cost and mess of a full replacement project. It’s important to note, however, that refacing is only suitable for cabinets that are in good condition. Cabinets with damaged faces or poorly constructed cabinet boxes won’t be structurally sound after refacing, and you will need to address these issues before attempting a refacing project.
Before starting, it’s important to thoroughly clean and degrease the cabinets using TSP (trisodium phosphate). Also, make sure you remove any drawers and cabinet doors so you can work on a flat surface. After cleaning and sanding, prime the cabinet face frames using a brush and let dry. Then, apply your chosen cabinet paint color and let dry as well. Before applying your top coat or finish, it’s a good idea to use a veneer roller to push out any air bubbles and ensure a smooth surface.
If you want to give your bathroom a more elegant or luxurious look, consider adding decorative trim or molding to the cabinets themselves. This adds texture and layers to the space, allowing you to create an elevated design that will impress guests and buyers alike. For a high-end touch, try molding with a bobbin or ribbed pattern for added visual interest.
While refacing can change the look of your bathroom, it won’t do much for dated or damaged countertops. If you’re looking to improve the overall value of your home, consider upgrading the countertops as well with a more modern material, such as quartz or granite. This will ensure that your kitchen or bathroom is on trend with the rest of your home and will provide a great return on investment when you’re ready to sell.
Refresh the Functionality
If you’re a homeowner, there may come a time when your bathroom cabinets or vanity no longer meet your needs. You might need more storage space, for example. Or you might want a more modern look. Fortunately, you can transform your cabinetry without gutting it and starting from scratch. Instead, you can reface your cabinet doors and add organizational accessories like drawer dividers or baskets. Adding mirrors and lighting will also enhance the new look.
Cabinet refacing is less expensive than replacing the cabinet boxes, so it’s a great option for homeowners who need a quick cabinet refresh. A professional like N-Hance can work with you to select a door style and color that complements your design goals. They can also help you choose other upgrades, such as crown molding or interior cabinet storage options.
Refacing involves covering the existing cabinet box faces with wood veneer or other material. It can be completed in a few days and can be done on a DIY basis. A thorough cleaning of the face frames is required first, including filling in holes and sanding down rough areas to create a smooth surface for the application of the veneer.
A thorough decluttering is also needed to remove any items you no longer need or want from your cabinetry. Once everything is cleaned and organized, the next step is to line your shelves with adhesive shelf liner in a stylish pattern or color. Organizing your cabinetry in this way will not only give it a fresh look, but it will make it easier for you to find what you’re looking for and keep everything neatly stored.
Another easy cabinet update is the addition of unique hardware like pulls or knobs that will set your bathroom apart from the rest. Choose from a variety of styles and finishes, from sleek brushed nickel to vintage-inspired brass. Choosing the right knobs or pulls can be as important as the door style in creating a finished look for your bathroom vanity cabinet or bathroom medicine cabinet. This is a great opportunity to showcase your personal style, and it’s an affordable cabinet upgrade that can change the overall look of your bathroom.
Refresh the Budget
Cabinet refacing is significantly less expensive than the replacement of the existing cabinetry, making it a great option for those on a tight budget. It also provides a more customizable and less disruptive remodel than a complete cabinet replacement, which requires the removal of all cabinets and the installation of new drawer fronts and hardware. However, keep in mind that refacing does not fix layout or structural issues; it is only a cosmetic upgrade.
A cabinet refacing project involves applying veneer wood to the existing face frames of the cabinets. This material may be made from a variety of materials, such as wood or laminate. The strips of veneer are applied to the vertical members of the face frame (known as “stiles”) as well as the horizontal ones, which are called the “rails.” The face frames and rails are then glued to each other and then cut to match the dimensions of the existing doors and drawer fronts.
The process requires careful preparation, as the surfaces must be free of oils and other residues that could interfere with proper adhesion. Before refacing, use a degreaser to clean the entire surface of the existing cabinet boxes and face frames, including any exposed sides, bottom, and inner surfaces. Once the cabinets are thoroughly cleaned, it’s time to start preparing the veneer. Using a sharp utility knife or laminate trimmer, carefully cut the veneer pieces to match the size of the existing stiles and rails.
Once the cabinet box is refaced, it’s ready to install the doors and drawer fronts. Working one at a time, carefully align and pre-drill each door before installing the hinges. Next, carefully align and attach the drawer fronts. Finally, install the pull hardware, following the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure a proper and durable bond.
To refresh the bathroom without spending a fortune, consider adding some decorative accents. Adding a new window treatment, rug, or shower curtain can instantly brighten any space. Alternatively, repurpose a dresser or chest as a vanity and decorate it with a fresh coat of paint or wide ribbons to create an elegant look that’s budget-friendly.
Refresh the Value
Cabinet refacing is an ideal cosmetic upgrade for bathroom cabinets because it costs less than a full remodel and is completed within a more manageable timeframe. But it’s important to note that refacing only works if the cabinet boxes are structurally sound. If they’re warped, water damaged, or uneven, it’s better to invest in new cabinetry because refacing will not fix these issues; it will only hide them.
Refacing requires that the existing cabinet box be cleaned and prepared for application of the veneer, which is glued and heated to create a permanent bond. The installer then installs the new cabinet doors and drawer fronts, completing the look. New hardware is also installed, such as hinges and handles, to match the style of the cabinetry.
Choosing the right finish and door style will help your bathroom cabinets stand out and provide a clean, modern look. Consider high-gloss white or soft blue door fronts paired with slim chrome handles for a sleek, contemporary vibe or flat-front doors in a natural wood finish and oil-rubbed bronze pulls for a classic yet modern look. Frosted glass inserts also add a sense of elegance and sophistication to any bathroom.
By keeping the existing cabinet boxes and installing brand-new door and drawer fronts, you’ll have a fresh look without spending a fortune or disrupting your daily routine. If you’re looking to breathe new life into your bathroom space, TREND Transformations can transform your dated cabinets with a quick and affordable refacing project. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discover your options!