Before starting a refacing project it's important to have all of the necessary cabinet refacing supplies.
Refacing cabinets means adding new doors and hardware and fixing up the framework that holds them with new veneers or other appropriate materials. The result is cabinetry that looks new for roughly half the cost of new custom work.
Cabinet refacing is a great way to update your kitchen or bathroom without going to the expense of replacing the cabinetry. It's less expensive, more environmentally friendly, and will give your room a fresh new look in little time.
Cabinet Refacing Materials
Plastic laminate, wood veneer and rigid thermofoils are several of the most commonly used substances used to reface cabinets.
- Plastic laminates are the cheapest route to go when it comes to refacing cabinets, but remember that you get what you pay for. The appearance usually isn't great, with the wood grains looking obviously fake.
- Wood veneers are the most popular material. They look great and are available in many different wood tones and styles. With veneers you get the look of wood without having to replace the cabinets. Because they look so great and are made of good quality, veneers are the most expensive option.
- Rigid thermofoils are one of the newest substances used in cabinet refacing. They are made up of fiberboard covered in a pressure molded vinyl foil. There aren't as many colors and wood grains available, however they are much more pliable than laminates and veneers. This means that they can be molded to create a wide range of styles (such as raised panels and arches). In terms of cost they usually fall somewhere between laminates and veneers.
When refacing cabinets you'll also want to think about whether or not you want to replace the hardware and drawer tracks. Obviously it will add to the cost, but if you're already going to the effort and expense of refacing, it's something you might want to consider.
Supplies for Cabinet Refacing
Once you've got the major elements, you'll want to make sure you have all the necessary tools and supplies to get started. Make a shopping list and make sure you've got everything.
- Tape measure - will be used over and over again throughout the process. Don't even think about starting without one.
- Utility knife - for trimming self-adhesive veneer to fit the cabinets.
- Screwdriver - for removing and replacing hardware and hinges.
- Drill - will make removing the cabinet doors much easier and save time. It can also be used to drill through the new material to make holes for hardware.
- Clamps - can be used to hold new materials in place. They're not necessary for self-adhesive veneers, but they're good to have on hand just in case.
- Small crowbar - for prying away the drawer fronts from the box.
- Hammer and small nails - great to have on hand in case things need to be tacked in place temporarily (especially when attaching molding).
- Wood glue - for applying the plywood end panels which are not self-adhesive.
- Handsaw - will be necessary for cutting away some excess plywood and molding.
- Screws - for securing new hardware and hinges.
- Level - just to make sure the cabinet doors are even.
These are the basic supplies that will help you in your cabinet refacing project and ensure that you get the job done right.
Where to Get Refacing Supplies and Materials
Cabinet refacing supplies and materials can be found at pretty much any local home improvement store. Large stores such as Home Depot are a great option, but even smaller hardware stores should carry the appropriate supplies.
When it comes to cabinet refacing, the options are pretty much endless. Refacing is less expensive than purchasing new custom cabinets, and when the job is done properly it can look just as good. Before starting any refacing project make sure you've got the right supplies and materials, and follow all of the instructions carefully.
