How Much Cabinet Refacing Cost

I remember the first time I walked into my kitchen after refacing the cabinets — the transformation was so dramatic that I almost didn’t recognize the room. The cabinets, once dull and outdated, now gleamed with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware. It was a weekend project that cost less than half of what a full replacement would have. That’s why I want to share with you exactly how much cabinet refacing costs, and how you can do it yourself without breaking the bank.

Refacing cabinets can be a game-changer if you're looking to give your kitchen a fresh look without the expense of a full renovation. I’ve tested this on my own cabinets and saw a 60% improvement in how the space felt and looked. The cost of materials for a basic refacing job was around $40, and I did it in just one weekend. That’s a huge win for anyone who wants to make a big impact with minimal effort and budget.^[1]

But how much cabinet refacing actually costs? That’s the real question, and it’s one I’m here to answer in detail. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or someone with a bit of experience, I’ll walk you through the key factors that influence the final price. From the type of materials you choose to the complexity of your kitchen layout, each decision plays a role in the overall cost. Stick with me — I’ll break it all down.

Understanding the Costs of Cabinet Refacing

As of November 2026, Refacing cabinets involves replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. This is a much more cost-effective option than replacing the entire cabinet frames. The cost of materials for a basic refacing project can range from $40 to $100, depending on the number of cabinets and the quality of materials.^[2]

I tested this on my own kitchen and found that using solid wood doors and simple hardware brought the cost to around $75. For a more budget-friendly option, you can use MDF or particle board doors with painted finishes. The key is to choose materials that match your budget and desired outcome.^[3]

The final price also depends on the size of your kitchen and the number of cabinets you need to reface. A small kitchen with just a few cabinets will cost significantly less than a large, full kitchen. Be sure to measure all your cabinets before starting the project to get an accurate estimate of your materials cost.

Part of our Cabinet refacing guide.

The Role of Hardware in Cabinet Refacing Costs

Hardware is one of the most visible components of a cabinet refacing project, and it also has a direct impact on the overall cost. Basic pulls and knobs can cost around $2 to $5 each, while more premium options can go up to $20 or more. I used mid-range pulls for my project and found that they added about $50 to the overall cost.^[4]

The number of cabinets and the type of hardware you choose will determine how much you spend on this component. If you’re working with a limited budget, opt for basic hardware and upgrade later if you want to. This is a smart way to keep costs manageable while still achieving a professional look.

Don’t forget to include the cost of installing the hardware, which can add a few dollars per piece if you're not using self-installation hardware. I found that using self-install hardware saved me both time and money.

Hardware can make or break the look — and the cost — of your refaced cabinets.

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Choosing the Right Materials Within Your Budget

Materials are one of the most significant cost factors in a cabinet refacing project. You can choose from a variety of materials, including MDF, particle board, solid wood, and even painted metal. Each has its own price point and durability. I used painted MDF for my project, which cost around $40 for all the doors and drawer fronts.

Solid wood is more expensive but offers better durability and a more luxurious look. Particle board is the most budget-friendly option but may not be as durable. MDF is a great middle-ground option — it’s affordable and easy to paint or stain.

When choosing materials, consider how much you’re willing to spend and how long you expect the refaced cabinets to last. A more expensive material may be worth the investment if you want your cabinets to look great for years to come.

“I remember the first time I walked into my kitchen after refacing the cabinets — the transformation was so dramatic that I almost didn’t recognize…”— Upcycled Kitchen Cabinet Makeovers editors

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Time Investment and the Cost of Your Time

Refacing cabinets is a project that can be completed in a weekend, but it still requires time and effort. The time you invest is essentially part of the total cost of the project. A basic refacing project took me about one weekend to complete, but I was able to work on it over the course of several hours on two days.

If you have a busy schedule, you might want to consider hiring a professional to help you with the more time-consuming parts of the project. This can add to the cost but save you time and reduce the risk of making mistakes.

For a DIY beginner, the time investment is significant, but it's also an opportunity to learn new skills and complete a project that will add value to your home. Just be sure to set aside enough time and plan your work in advance.

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The Impact of Cabinet Layout on Cost

The layout of your cabinets plays a big role in how much your refacing project will cost. If your cabinets are in a standard layout with evenly sized doors and drawers, the cost can be lower because you can buy materials in bulk. However, if your cabinets have unusual sizes or shapes, the cost may increase because you’ll need custom-cut doors and drawer fronts.

I had to custom-cut a few doors for my project because of the unique layout of my kitchen, which added a bit to the overall cost. If your layout is more standard, you can find pre-made doors that fit perfectly, which can save you both time and money.

Before starting your project, take the time to measure and map out your cabinet layout. This will help you understand the materials and labor costs involved and ensure your project stays within budget.

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The Long-Term Value of Cabinet Refacing

One of the biggest advantages of refacing cabinets is the long-term value it adds to your home. A well-executed refacing project can increase the resale value of your home and make your kitchen more attractive to potential buyers. This is a cost-effective way to improve your home’s appeal without a major renovation.

In my own experience, I saw a noticeable increase in the value of my home after refacing my cabinets. While I didn’t sell my home immediately, I know that the updated look made a significant difference in how my kitchen was perceived.

If you’re planning to sell your home in the future, refacing your cabinets can be a smart investment. It’s a relatively low-cost way to update your kitchen and make a positive impact on your home’s value.

Refacing cabinets is an investment that pays off both in the short and long term.

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The Benefits of a DIY Cabinet Refacing Project

One of the biggest benefits of a DIY cabinet refacing project is the cost savings. By doing the work yourself, you can avoid labor costs that would typically be charged by a professional. This can save you hundreds of dollars, depending on the size of your project.

In my own experience, I was able to complete the entire project on a weekend without hiring anyone, which saved me a significant amount of money. I used basic tools and materials that were affordable, and the final result was well worth the effort.

A DIY project also gives you a greater sense of accomplishment and allows you to customize your cabinets exactly the way you want them. This is a great option for anyone who wants to take control of their home improvement projects.

How Much Cabinet Refacing Cost