Steps of the Refacing Process

Cabinet refacing involves several steps and considerable home improvement skills.  Look for a cabinet refacing company that has been in business for several years.  A good contractor will describe the process for you in detail.  Of course, it never hurts to have a little information ahead of time.  Here’s how it works:

1. The Cabinets Are Emptied
This seems like the quick part, but it can be a real mess if you don't do it with some panache from the get go.  Just before you start, line up enough boxes to hold everything and separate the items by shelf.  When it's time to put them back, it will be a breeze.  Furthermore, there's nothing more irritating than to start cramming unrelated things together and have a box of baking powder spill onto the dinner dishes simply because you didn't have enough boxes for the baking supplies.

2. Your Kitchen Is Protected
Since the kitchen cabinet boxes will be covered with a new surface, there may be dust, sawdust or stray dust bunnies floating around.  To avoid damage or mess, your stove and counters should be protected using plastic or drop cloths. Tools may possibly, unintentionally slip and fall, so a good cover up will shelter areas from scratches.  Your fridge may butt up against cabinets; if so, it should be moved into another spot.

3. Cabinet Doors and Hardware Are Removed
Cabinet hardware includes pulls, hinges, drawer runners and knobs.  As it is removed, it should be separated and labeled.  It makes the final steps go quickly and eliminates tons of aggravation.

4. Cabinet Box Is Refaced
Preferably you've decided on a contractor who demands quality.  If so, the outer surface of your cupboards will be lined with 1/4" solid wood, veneer or thermofoil, making them secure, classy, and looking like new.

A few of the advantages include:

• Cabinets will look brand new 
• Considerably wider range of alternatives in wood species and glazing 
• Larger choice of decorative door panels 
• Cupboards are more functional 
• Hinges are concealed 
• Custom look - you can do anything that can be done with new cabinets - crown molding, decorative panels, etc.

5. Preparation For Hardware Installation
Thorough and exact measuring and marking for hardware installation guarantees a pleasing visual placement and eliminates plenty of exasperation for misplaced marks and unbalanced placement.

6. Installation Of New Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
When the cabinets are replaced, new hardware is installed after the doors are hung.

7. Installation Of Kitchen Cabinet Doors
When the new doors and drawer fronts are replaced to their correct position, they are checked for accurate closing and symmetry.

8. Finishing Touches On Newly Refaced Kitchen Cabinets
If any pulls or knobs have not been added, this is the time.

That's it! Cabinet refacing is one of the most popular and most cost-effective ways to spruce up your kitchen.  You will be amazed to see the modern and updated look it adds to your space.  A pro, who knows how important it is to be meticulous in his execution of the project, will deliver one of the most outstanding upgrades you can do to your home.