Refacing laminate cabinets is a cost-effective way to update and refresh the look of your kitchen or bathroom without the expense and hassle of a full renovation. This process involves covering the cabinet surfaces with new laminate or wood veneer, giving them an entirely new appearance.
Ideal for those who want a modern look on a budget, cabinet refacing can dramatically transform the appearance of a space with relatively modest effort. Not only does it improve aesthetics, but it also extends the life of your existing cabinets, making it an environmentally friendly option as well. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to reface laminate cabinets, ensuring a professional finish and refreshed ambiance.
What Is Refacing
Refacing is a renovation technique that involves updating the external surfaces of cabinets rather than replacing them entirely. This method typically includes removing old cabinet doors and drawers, applying a new veneer or laminate finish to the cabinet boxes, and installing new doors and drawer fronts. Additionally, new hardware such as handles and hinges can be fitted to complete the transformation.
The process of refacing is usually quicker and less disruptive than a full-scale cabinet replacement, allowing homeowners to achieve a modern and fresh look without the high costs and time commitment associated with extensive remodeling. It is an excellent choice for those who want to improve the aesthetic appeal and functionality of their kitchen or bathroom while maintaining the existing structure.
Benefits of Refacing Laminate Cabinets
Refacing laminate cabinets offers numerous advantages that make it an attractive option for homeowners looking to enhance their spaces. One of the primary benefits is cost savings. Refacing is significantly less expensive than a complete cabinet replacement, allowing you to allocate your budget to other areas of renovation or decoration.
Additionally, the process is quicker and less disruptive, meaning you can enjoy your newly refreshed space sooner and with minimal inconvenience. Environmentally, refacing reduces waste by repurposing existing materials, contributing to a more sustainable home improvement solution. Furthermore, this method allows for a high degree of customization, offering a wide range of styles, colors, and finishes to suit any decor preference, which ensures your cabinets reflect your personal taste and the latest trends.
10 Methods How to Reface Laminate Cabinets
1. Cleaning and Prepping the Cabinets
Before refacing your laminate cabinets, thorough cleaning and preparation are essential. Over time, grease, dirt, and grime can accumulate on the surface, which may prevent new materials from adhering properly. Start by removing all the cabinet doors, drawers, and hardware, and then clean the surfaces with a degreasing cleaner or a solution of warm water and mild detergent.
Scrub the laminate with a soft cloth or sponge, focusing on any particularly dirty areas. Once clean, rinse the surfaces with water and allow them to dry completely. Prepping the cabinets properly ensures that the new refacing material will adhere securely and last longer.
2. Sanding the Laminate Surface
Although laminate is a smooth surface, sanding it lightly can help improve the adhesion of new materials, such as paint, veneers, or adhesive overlays. Use 120- or 220-grit sandpaper to lightly sand the cabinet surfaces, focusing on removing the glossy top layer of the laminate.
Be sure not to sand too aggressively, as this can damage the underlying material. After sanding, wipe down the surfaces with a tack cloth to remove any dust or debris. This method prepares the laminate to receive the new finish and ensures that the refacing material adheres securely.
3. Applying Adhesive Veneers
One of the most popular ways to reface laminate cabinets is by using adhesive veneers, which come in various wood grains, colors, and patterns. These peel-and-stick veneers are easy to apply and can give your cabinets a completely new look. Measure the cabinet doors and cut the veneer sheets to fit, allowing for a slight overhang that you can trim later. Peel off the backing and carefully press the veneer onto the surface, smoothing out any air bubbles or wrinkles as you go. Use a utility knife or a straightedge to trim the excess veneer for a clean finish. Adhesive veneers are a quick and simple way to achieve a professional, updated look.
4. Painting the Laminate Cabinets
Painting laminate cabinets is another effective method for refacing them, allowing you to completely change their color and style. To paint laminate cabinets, start by sanding the surface lightly to remove the glossy finish. Apply a high-quality primer specifically designed for laminate surfaces. Once the primer has dried, apply two coats of paint, allowing sufficient drying time between coats. Use a foam roller or a brush to achieve a smooth finish. Paint offers a versatile option, allowing you to choose any color and finish, from matte to glossy, to match your interior design preferences.
5. Using Chalk Paint for a Matte Finish
Chalk paint is an excellent choice for refacing laminate cabinets if you prefer a matte, vintage, or farmhouse-style look. Chalk paint requires minimal surface preparation, making it an easy option for DIY refacing projects. Simply clean the laminate surface, apply the chalk paint directly, and let it dry. For a rustic or distressed look, you can lightly sand the edges or corners of the cabinets after painting. Once dry, seal the paint with wax or a matte sealer to protect the finish. Chalk paint provides a soft, matte texture that can give laminate cabinets a cozy, lived-in feel.
6. Installing Wood Veneer Panels
For a more natural or traditional look, you can reface laminate cabinets by installing wood veneer panels. Wood veneer is a thin layer of real wood that can be applied over the laminate surface, giving the cabinets the appearance of solid wood. Start by measuring and cutting the veneer to fit each cabinet surface. Apply wood glue or contact cement to both the veneer and the laminate surface, then press the veneer onto the cabinet and use a roller to smooth out any air pockets. Once the veneer is applied, trim the edges and sand any rough spots. Finish by applying a stain or varnish to enhance the natural wood grain.
7. Adding Beadboard Panels
Beadboard panels can add a charming, cottage-inspired look to your laminate cabinets, giving them texture and depth. Beadboard is a decorative paneling with vertical grooves that can be applied directly to the cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Measure and cut the beadboard panels to fit the cabinet surfaces, then attach them using wood glue or finishing nails. Once the panels are in place, you can paint or stain them to match your desired aesthetic. Beadboard panels are an excellent choice for adding visual interest to flat laminate surfaces and can easily transform the look of your cabinets.
8. Installing New Cabinet Doors
If the cabinet doors themselves are outdated or damaged, replacing them with new doors is a great way to reface laminate cabinets without completely remodeling the cabinetry. You can purchase pre-made doors in various styles, such as shaker, raised panel, or flat panel, or you can have custom doors made to fit your cabinets. Choose doors made from wood, MDF, or even glass to match the new look you want to achieve. Installing new doors provides a fresh start, allowing you to update the cabinet style while keeping the existing cabinet boxes intact.
9. Applying Wallpaper or Contact Paper
Wallpaper or contact paper can be used to reface laminate cabinets for a bold or decorative update. There are countless patterns and designs available, from modern geometric prints to classic floral motifs, making it easy to personalize your space. Start by cutting the wallpaper or contact paper to the size of the cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Peel off the backing and carefully apply the paper to the surface, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles. Trim any excess paper around the edges. This method offers a temporary, affordable, and creative way to reface laminate cabinets without a permanent commitment.
10. Updating the Cabinet Hardware
Sometimes, updating the cabinet hardware can make a significant difference in the appearance of laminate cabinets, even without refacing the entire surface. Replacing outdated knobs, handles, and pulls with new, stylish hardware can give the cabinets a fresh, modern look. Choose hardware that complements the new style you’re going for, whether it’s rustic, contemporary, or classic. Consider using brushed nickel, matte black, or antique brass finishes to enhance the overall design. Updated hardware can make your cabinets feel completely transformed without the need for extensive refacing work.
Conclusion
Refacing laminate cabinets offers a cost-effective and versatile way to breathe new life into your kitchen or bathroom without undergoing a full renovation. Whether you choose adhesive veneers, paint, wood veneers, or even new hardware, each method provides a unique opportunity to express your personal style while enhancing the functionality and appearance of your space. Thanks for reading, and we hope this has given you some inspiration on how to reface laminate cabinets!
