Refacing old cabinets is a popular and cost-effective way to give your kitchen a fresh look without replacing the entire cabinetry. However, homeowners often encounter some surprising things when they embark on this project. In this article, we’ll discuss the biggest surprises homeowners encounter when refacing old cabinets.
Hidden Damage
One of the biggest surprises homeowners encounter when refacing old cabinets is discovering hidden damage. Once the cabinets are stripped of their old finish and hardware, the true condition of the wood is revealed. Old cabinets may have water damage, warping, or rot, which needs to be addressed before refacing. It’s essential to inspect the cabinets thoroughly before beginning the project to avoid any unforeseen problems.
Cabinet Sizes
Another surprising thing homeowners encounter is that the new doors and drawer fronts don’t fit the existing cabinet sizes. This is because older cabinets were built with non-standard sizes, and custom measurements are required. Homeowners may need to have custom doors and drawer fronts made, which can add to the overall cost of the project.
Matching Existing Cabinets
Matching the new cabinet doors and drawer fronts to the existing cabinets can also be a challenge. The new materials used may have a different texture or finish, and the color may not match precisely. Homeowners may need to consider repainting or refinishing the existing cabinets to match the new doors and drawer fronts.
Hardware Placement
Another surprise homeowners encounter is that the placement of the hardware on the new cabinet doors and drawer fronts may not align with the existing cabinet hardware. This can create a mismatched look, and homeowners may need to have new hardware installed or fill in the old hardware holes before installing the new doors and drawer fronts.
Project Timeline
Finally, homeowners may be surprised at how long the refacing project takes. Refacing cabinets is not a quick and easy task and can take several days or even weeks to complete. The project involves removing old finishes, sanding and cleaning the cabinets, fitting new doors and drawer fronts, and installing hardware. Homeowners need to be prepared for the project’s timeline and plan accordingly.
In conclusion, refacing old cabinets can be a great way to update your kitchen’s look without breaking the bank. However, homeowners should be aware of the surprises they may encounter before embarking on this project. It’s essential to inspect the cabinets thoroughly before starting the project, be prepared for custom measurements and matching the new doors and drawer fronts to the existing cabinets, and be aware of the project timeline.
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