Not Paint: There's A Better Way To Give Kitchen Cabinets A Brand-New Look

A new coat of paint is a relatively fast, affordable way to revive old cabinets. However, you don't have to paint outdated kitchen cabinets to give them a makeover, and in fact, it's not always the best choice. If your cabinet doors are damaged, outdated, or crafted from a low-quality composite material like MDF, replacing them is a more effective long-term solution.

There are also certain types of wood cabinets you should never paint; open-grain wood like oak requires heavy priming and sealing, so replacing the doors is actually a better value. Cabinet refacing involves removing the old cabinet doors and replacing them with new ones while leaving the main cabinet boxes in place. It is a more complex and costly home improvement project, yet still less expensive than completely replacing old cabinets. Plus, it gives you the opportunity to choose a more modern design and more durable materials to give cabinets a brand new look.

The cost to replace your cabinet doors will depend on the style and material you choose, the number of doors being replaced, and the local rates for professional installation in your area. On average, installing new real wood cabinet doors can cost between $50 and $200 per door, with added costs for labor and finishing. Removing the old doors and hardware and disposing of them yourself could save you some money. Overall, you may find that the cost is worth it, as it's a small change that will make tired kitchen cabinets feel new again.

You have two big choices to make when replacing cabinet doors: Do you want something trendy or timeless? There is no right or wrong answer to that question. If you don't plan on selling your home any time soon, don't be shy about making changes that reflect your personality and unique style, like modern, bold kitchen cabinet designs and colors. If you prefer a more minimalist, traditional vibe, or want to make home improvements that increase the resale value of your property, you should opt for classic cabinet door styles. For instance, glass-front, Shaker, and raised or flat panel cabinet doors work well in a contemporary kitchen with a modern, sleek aesthetic. Beadboard cabinets are a classic cabinet style that is versatile and affordable, and they complement a farmhouse or cottagecore kitchen. 

You also want to choose cabinet doors that seamlessly integrate with existing colors, finishes, decor, and overall architecture of your kitchen. Complicated, intricate woodwork may not suit a clean, crisp, streamlined kitchen design. Bright, bold colors may clash with existing backsplashes, tile, or flooring. Dark, moody wood may make a small kitchen feel claustrophobic and cramped.

Also consider your lifestyle and how much time you want to devote to cleaning sticky, greasy kitchen cabinets. Flat panel and Shaker cabinets are the easiest to clean, while beadboard, glass-front, and louvered doors can trap dust and debris more easily. Finally, choose an option that fits your budget. Maple flat panel or Shaker doors usually cost less than premium wood like walnut or complex louvered or beadboard construction.