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Kitchen Cabinets: Repaint or Replace?

If the kitchen cabinets are looking a little ragged, it may be time to consider redoing them. The question then becomes, do you repaint them or replace them? If the home repair budget allows you to only repaint them, the choice is already made. However, if you have the option of doing one or the other, the list below will help you make the decision about which option is better for you.

Solid Surface

Before committing to replacing the kitchen cabinets, evaluate them first. If the wood or metal is flimsy, split or otherwise broken, it may be more challenging to make them look good with just a simple paint job. However, if the cabinets are in good condition, but aesthetically unappealing, painting may be a more economical choice. Wooden cabinets that have a plain front can easily have molding added to the doors to change the look. If the doors are cut in such a way that the original design cannot be altered, just keep in mind that even with a paint job, they will still have the same outdated look you are trying to change. Cabinets that can be altered and are in good, solid condition make the best surfaces for repainting.

Time & Space

Repainting kitchen cabinets is no short and easy process. Old paint must be removed, the cabinets have to be sanded, primer needs to be applied and then two coats of paint need to go on next. If you do not have the necessary tools to complete the job and your space is limited, repainting the cabinets can turn into a huge nightmare. The amount of time needed to complete the job must also be taken into consideration. The job will take longer than a weekend to allow for proper drying time and paint adhesion. If you rush the process, the cabinets will not turn out the way you had hoped and you will be dissatisfied with the resulting look of your kitchen.

Cost

The biggest factor, when deciding whether to repaint or replace the kitchen cabinets, is the cost of kitchen cabinets. Painting, while it is more time consuming for you, is a lot less expensive than replacing the kitchen cabinets. A couple of cans of high-quality paint and primer, a handheld sander and a lot of time and patience can make unappealing cabinets an integral part of an attractive kitchen design. Replacing the cabinets is a lot costlier and often requires the help of a professional contractor. The benefit to replacing them is that if the cabinets are broken or constructed of flimsy material, the new cabinets will last much longer and look better in the long run. If you decide to replace the cabinets, shop around for a reputable contractor and get written estimates before beginning. Keep in mind that if the cabinets are being completely replaced the kitchen will be unavailable for use for the duration of the remodel. If they are being repainted, you will still be able to cook on a limited scale.

Kitchen remodeling is one of the most important steps that homeowners can take to raising the value of their home. Deciding whether to repaint or replace is one of the first steps in that remodel. Remember that if you want to change the layout of the kitchen, a remodel is really the only choice. Weigh the pros and cons of each option and choose the one that will work best for your home and your lifestyle.

Jessica Ackerman, author and staff designer at WallDecorandHomeAccents.com, specializes in tropical wall decorations and wine metal art.