Your kitchen cabinets might still be functioning well, but they don’t look the way they used to. Maybe the paint is worn, the color feels dated, or the stain just doesn’t match the rest of your home anymore. And while a full remodel sounds nice, it’s probably not something you’re ready to dive into right now.
At Roe Painting, we’ve helped homeowners figure out when repainting their cabinets is a smart, cost-effective way to refresh their kitchen and when it might not be worth it. We know what works, what doesn’t, and how to get great results without gutting the entire space.
In this article, we’ll break down exactly when repainting makes sense, what the process looks like, and how to tell if it’s the right next step for your kitchen.
In simple terms, repainting involves applying a new painted finish to your existing cabinets. This means sanding them down and applying a bonding primer before applying fresh coats of paint.
Repainting differs from refacing, which involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts. While refacing can also give your kitchen a fresh look, it’s often more expensive and doesn’t offer the same level of customization as repainting.
Repainting your kitchen cabinets isn’t just a quick fix. It’s often the smartest way to upgrade your kitchen without tearing everything out. Before you commit to a full remodel, here are a few solid reasons why repainting might give you the transformation you want without the time, mess, or cost of replacement.
Renovations can get pricey fast. Repainting your kitchen cabinets, however, is like getting the most bang for your buck. On average, repainting costs about one-third of what you’d spend on replacing your cabinets entirely. That’s a substantial savings, especially considering that cabinets can account for up to 29% of the total cost of a kitchen remodel. That’s a big chunk of your budget right there.
So, repainting is a fantastic option if you’re looking to update your kitchen without diving into a full-blown renovation. It allows you to refresh the look and feel of your space without the hefty price tag. Plus, with the money you save, you might have some leftovers for other improvements—or just something fun.
A full kitchen remodel can turn your home upside down. We’re talking weeks (if not months) of dust, noise, and having your kitchen out of commission. It’s a significant disruption, especially when your kitchen is the heart of your home. Repainting, on the other hand, is a much quicker and less invasive process. Depending on the size of your kitchen and the project scope, it could be completed in just a few days.
This means you won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of living in a construction zone. Instead, you’ll be back to enjoying your kitchen in no time, with a fresh new look that feels like an upgrade without the chaos of a complete remodel.
When you repaint your kitchen cabinets, you can tailor the look to your style. Whether you’re looking to add character with a bold color or create a clean look with bright neutrals, repainting gives you the flexibility to achieve your desired aesthetic. You can even choose more than one color in your space by pairing different colors for your upper and lower cabinets, or give your island a pop of color.
The beauty of repainting is that it allows you to personalize your kitchen without being limited by the pre-set options of new cabinets. You’re free to design a space that reflects your taste and complements the rest of your home. It’s a chance to make your kitchen uniquely yours.
If you’re concerned about your environmental footprint, repainting is a more sustainable choice than replacing your cabinets. Keeping your existing cabinets will reduce waste and lessen the demand for new materials. It’s a small but meaningful way to positively impact the environment.
Beyond just reducing waste, repainting also contributes to the longevity of your existing cabinets. Instead of discarding them, you’re giving them a second life, which aligns with a more sustainable lifestyle. It’s a responsible choice that benefits both your home and the planet.
By now, you might be considering repainting your kitchen cabinets, but how do you know if it’s the right choice for your home? Let’s break down a few key factors to help you decide.
The first thing to look at is the current condition of your cabinets. Are they still structurally sound? If your cabinets are sturdy, with doors and drawers that work well but look a bit tired or outdated, then repainting is likely an excellent option. Consider giving them a fresh coat of paint—they’ll look brand new on the outside while still having all the good qualities they started with.
When It’s Not Right for You: If your cabinets show signs of serious wear and tear—like warping wood, significant water damage, or broken frames—it might be time to consider a full replacement. Repainting can do wonders for the appearance of your cabinets, but it won’t fix structural issues. In such cases, investing in new cabinets might be a more practical and long-lasting solution.
Let’s talk numbers. Your budget is always a crucial factor in any home improvement project. Repainting is often the more budget-friendly option, offering a significant refresh without the major expense of a complete remodel. Instead of paying $8,000 to replace all of your cabinets, you can completely change and upgrade your space for around half the cost.
Moreover, repainting your cabinets can offer a high return on investment, especially if you’re planning to sell your home soon. A well-executed repainting job can make your kitchen look updated and attractive to potential buyers, potentially increasing your home’s overall value. It’s a smart financial move that can pay off in terms of cost savings and resale value.
Project Type |
Estimated Size |
Estimated Cost |
|
Cabinet Repainting |
30 to 40 doors and/or drawers |
$3,330 to $4,400 |
|
Full Replacement |
30 to 40 doors and/or drawers |
$8,000 to $26,000 |
If you choose to replace your kitchen cabinets, you can save money by opting for semi-custom cabinets over custom cabinetry. However, if your kitchen has a unique layout or size requirements, you may end up having to go with custom cabinets to suit your space.
Now, think about the look you want to achieve in your kitchen. If you’re generally happy with the layout and design but want to update your cabinets’ color, finish, or overall style, repainting is an ideal solution. It gives you the flexibility to transform the look of your kitchen without changing the existing structure. Whether you’re envisioning a brighter, more modern space or a cozy, traditional feel, repainting allows you to make that change with minimal disruption.
When It’s Not Right for You: A complete remodel might be more appropriate if you’re dreaming of an entirely new kitchen layout or significant structural changes—like adding more cabinets, altering the floor plan, or introducing new appliances. Repainting is perfect for cosmetic upgrades, but it’s not designed to accommodate significant design changes. If your vision for your kitchen goes beyond a fresh look, it may be time to explore more comprehensive renovation options.
If you’ve decided that repainting is the right choice for your kitchen, you might wonder what the process looks like when you hire a professional. Most cabinet painting projects will take anywhere from 3 to 7 days.
Here’s a brief overview of how that process breaks down:
After living with cabinets that feel tired, worn, or simply out of date, it might be tempting to take a sledgehammer to your kitchen. However, if your cabinets are still in working condition, consider cabinet painting as the solution that will transform your kitchen into a space you love to be in.
Now that you know the benefits, limitations, and what the repainting process actually looks like, you’re in a much better position to make a confident, informed decision. Whether you want a brighter kitchen, bolder color palette, or just a clean, updated look, repainting offers a practical path forward without the stress of a full renovation.
Your next step? Check out our gallery of recently finished kitchen cabinet transformations to see what’s possible, or schedule a complimentary consultation with Roe Painting to get professional advice specific to your kitchen.