Should I Replace or Repaint My Cabinets in the Bay Area?
Remodeling or redecorating your kitchen usually involves some consideration of the cabinetry. You may find yourself scratching your head about whether to repaint your old cabinets, or just replace them altogether. Both options are attractive for different reasons, and weighing the pros and cons of each can be helpful.
Despite what some may say, replacing your cabinets with cheap cabinets will not boost your home value. Quality is important in this department. Its’ also important to note, that most cabinet sets only come with the cabinet part of the set. In other words, anticipate spending extra on the knobs, hinges, installation and handles. The installation process is also an expenditure, typically requiring filler strips (strips of rubber or wood) to ensure that the cabinets rest flush against your walls.
However, if you are interested in replacing old cabinets there are some cost cutting possibilities. The first that comes to mind is simple: don’t replace it, just reface it! Refacing can be a great solution for those who may be looking to just spruce a worn out looking set of cabinets. Reface the front and the sides with veneer upgrade the hardware and the crown molding, and they’ll look like new!
Another way to remodel without spending a hefty sum on brand new cabinets is to buy unfinished cabinet and do to the staining yourself. Yes, this DIY approach will greatly diminish costs--BUT it’s also important to bear in mind that if you’re unskilled and inexperienced in staining, the results may end up looking less than professional.
As far as painting goes, it’s almost guaranteed to be easier on the wallet. It’s certainly more affordable, but that doesn’t make it any less involved of a process. Repainting cabinets usually requires a lot more prep work than just popping the lid off of a can and dunking a roller. If the job is going to last and be beautiful, the cabinets must be cleaned, primed, sanded, painted, and finally finished with sealer. Without priming and sanding the paint will corrode and eventually chip away. Also, we at MB Jessee prefer to spray cabinets. This makes them look almost factory finished. This approach should only be handled by a professional painting company.
Another reason that painting can be a great option is that it gives you a great deal of control over coordinating the color and look with your home décor. However, if you’re interested in increasing the market value of your home, stick with neutral colors. All in all, if your present cabinets are solid wood and not in disrepair, painting instead of replacing may be the better choice value-wise.
Please contact MB Jessee if you think you could use assistance with your cabinet or kitchen projects! As well as being a fully outfitted painting company, we’re always available to help with painting ideas, and to give creative painting tips.
