Cabinet Refacing

If your kitchen is in need of a facelift then cabinet refacing is a great way to go. Not only is it cheaper and easier to pull off but it is also a method of recycling, something we all need to do more of. By refacing your cabinets as opposed to taking down the old set to replace with the new, you are saving yourself a lot of intensive labour and potentially tens of thousands of dollars.

Cabinet refacing is the act of applying a new finish over the existing framework from your kitchen. By applying new a new counter top, sink & faucet and new cabinet doors (plus any accessories like hutches) to your old frame you can achieve that new kitchen look without having to break the bank. However, I would only recommend this if your old frame is still structurally sound. If there has been water damage and rot then it would be best to start from scratch so as to eliminate any rapid wear and tear.

You will have to select a style that matches the space you have to work with. If you are adding any new features like a dishwasher then it is import to make up for that extra space somewhere else. This won't work with every shape and style though. The most popular cabinet shapes you will come across will be as follows:

| - the straight line along a flat wall is common among kitchens where space utilization is high priority
| | - the double straight line works well in small apartments where there open space of the kitchen is designed as an aisleway between
the amenities (stove, refrigerator, and generally anything else that needs to be connected to something) and the opposing dry storage space
L - the L shape is popular for its ability to create extra storage space in its corner. The "lazy Susan. - a round pivoting corner shelf commonly featured because of it requires little surface space to access the shelving room. L shapes can be further augmented with an accompanying kitchen island if there is sufficient open space.
U - the U shape is common among larger kitchens where there is space for cabinetry to hug every available wall.

When choosing accessories for your cabinetry you should aim high. The small finishing details can go a long way in making your kitchen exude a feeling of high quality. With your drawer sliders, hinges, knobs and handles you should purchase only the superior hardware as these tend to be what gets the most wear. Avoid going too fancy though, with out having neutral taste your kitchen can suffer in value.