Kitchen Cabinets

If your kitchen is in need of a makeover there are several different options you can consider depending on your budget. The least expensive option is to make do with what you have but try to freshen it up. Clean the cabinets thoroughly, remove the doors, drawer fronts and hardware, and then apply either new stain or paint. Spray applications go on more smoothly, with no sign of brush strokes. Cabinet interiors can also be painted in a contrasting shade to add interest. With new pulls, knobs and hinges, your kitchen will look completely different.

Refacing is another option when your cabinetry is sound and you're satisfied with the layout but want to update the look. There are three basic options; plastic laminates, rigid thermofoils (RTF), and wood veneer. Laminates come in a wide variety of colors and wood-grain styles on otherwise plain doors. RTF is more malleable, and allows you to add a more textured look to the cabinetry such as arches or raised panels. There are fewer color options than with laminates, but the wood grain looks more realistic. Wood veneers give a beautiful, rich look to cabinet exteriors that the other materials can't match, but can be up to 25% more expensive.

Replacing cabinets should only be done if you want to redesign the kitchen and can afford the hefty price tag. However handy you are you'll do best to leave this job to the professionals. Get several quotes and ask for references from satisfied customers. Make sure you know exactly what is, and isn't, included in your contract so that there aren't any nasty shocks down the road.