Should I reface or replace my kitchen cabinets?

Refacing is often the smart middle-ground choice for Ottawa homeowners - it gives you a fresh new look at about 40-60% of the cost of full replacement while keeping your existing cabinet boxes intact.

When Refacing Makes Sense

Refacing works best when your cabinet boxes are structurally sound and you're happy with the current layout. This involves keeping your existing cabinet frames and drawers, then applying new veneer to the visible surfaces and installing completely new doors and drawer fronts. In Ottawa's market, cabinet refacing typically runs $8,000-$18,000 for an average kitchen, compared to $15,000-$35,000 for full cabinet replacement.

The process is also much faster - refacing usually takes 3-5 days versus 2-3 weeks for full replacement. This means less disruption to your daily routine and no need to set up a temporary kitchen for weeks. You'll also avoid the mess and disposal costs of tearing out existing cabinets, which is particularly valuable in Ottawa's older homes where cabinet removal can be challenging.

When Full Replacement is Worth It

Replace your cabinets if you want to change the layout, add storage, or if the existing boxes are damaged. Warped shelves, broken drawer slides, or cabinets that are falling apart won't be solved by refacing. Similarly, if your kitchen layout doesn't work for your family - maybe you need deeper counters, different heights, or want to add an island - replacement gives you complete design freedom.

Full replacement also makes sense if you're doing a complete kitchen renovation including moving plumbing, electrical, or walls. In these cases, the additional cost of new cabinets versus refacing becomes less significant as part of the total project budget.

Ottawa-Specific Considerations

Many Ottawa homes built in the 1960s-1980s have solid wood cabinet boxes that are perfect candidates for refacing. However, homes with original 1950s metal cabinets or particle board boxes from the 1990s are usually better served with complete replacement.

Consider your timeline carefully - if you're planning to sell within 5-7 years, refacing might provide better return on investment. For your "forever home," replacement gives you exactly what you want for the long term.

For a detailed assessment of your specific cabinets and kitchen goals, contact Justyn Rook Contracting for a free consultation. We can help you determine which approach will give you the best value for your Ottawa kitchen renovation.