Replacing Vs. Painting Cabinets — Your Best Options

Your kitchen is where you connect with loved ones, cook mouthwatering meals, share stories over the dining table, and create cherishable memories. And so, it deserves an upgrade once in a while.

In any kitchen renovation, the cabinets play an integral role. Should you replace them entirely — or will a fresh coat of paint do? This blog post is your comprehensive guide on whether you should paint vs. replace your kitchen cabinets. Keep reading to learn all about it!

Painting Your Cabinets

You can hire professional(s) to paint your cabinets for a sleek finish or paint them yourself if you have some free time and are in for a good DIY project. All you need to do is empty the cabinets and prepare them (for example, by priming them) — and finally, apply the paint. Here’s a detailed guide on how to paint your cabinets.

Choose the paint color according to the ambiance you wish to create. A neutral lover? All-white cabinets will create an elegant look. Want a little color? Pastel shades have your back. Wish to create a statement? Opt for something bold — perhaps bright yellow!

Pros Of Cabinet Painting

It is cheaper than replacing cabinets.
It is more convenient, providing an easy way to upgrade your kitchen according to the latest color (and finish) trends.
Painting is a faster option than replacement.

Cons Of Cabinet Painting

Painted cabinets can easily peel and flake.
They require more maintenance, as paint attracts dust and grime more than wooden surfaces.
They’ll require additional maintenance earlier as compared to replaced cabinets.
Painting cabinets yourself is harder than it looks.

Replacing Your Cabinets

Replacing your cabinets involves removing all existing cabinetry and installing it afresh, including hardware, doors, and countertops. However, the components involved can make the process complex. So, although it’s possible to do it yourself with basic know-how, we’d recommend consulting a professional to do the job.

Here are the types of cabinetry you may choose from:

Stock cabinets: simple, pre-built cabinetry
Semi-custom cabinets: similar to stock cabinets but with additional details (for example, glass inserts)
Custom cabinets: made to order and include personalized details, such as slide-out shelves, organizers, and custom colors

Pros Of Cabinet Replacing

Replaced cabinets last longer.
They add to and increase the resale value of your home.
You have the option of redesigning your kitchen layout.

Cons Of Cabinet Replacing

Replacing cabinets is more expensive than painting your cabinets.
You will need professional help.

Should I Paint Vs. Replace Cabinets?

If your existing cabinetry is in good shape but just look outdated, applying a fresh coat of paint will give them the new and upgraded look you’re after especially if you also update the hardward. This, of course, is a more inexpensive approach than a complete replacement.

However, bear in mind that you may need to replace them sooner than you would with new cabinets, and they’ll require more maintenance, too.

If you wish for a longer-term upgrade and are willing to invest, consider replacing your cabinets. They are also a fantastic option if you want a massive change. With custom cabinetry, you can have whatever you envision! Be ready to hire professionals if you’re in for this option, though.

Both painting and replacing cabinets have their pros and cons, and the one most suitable for you depends on the type of project and end result you’re seeking. A thorough read of this blog post will give you all the necessary information you need to reach the best decision.

Paint vs. replace cabinets? We hope you now have the answer!