White kitchen counter with a farmhouse sink and pull-down faucet under a window

Resources & Remodeling Tips

Thinking about a kitchen or bath project? Our blog breaks down the decisions homeowners ask us about most — from refacing versus resurfacing to how a remodel affects your home’s value. Browse our latest articles below.

Technician refacing cabinets

Maybe you got a quote for a full kitchen remodel and the number was higher than you planned. If so, it's worth asking whether you need new cabinets at all. Plenty of kitchens have cabinet boxes with good shape. Only the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware are showing their age. In that case, refacing may be a better option than replacing the cabinets. Here's how kitchen cabinet refacing works at Better Cabinets & Bath.

What gets replaced and what stays

Refacing replaces the main visible components of the cabinets: the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware.

Face frames are handled differently. Those are the strips of wood around each cabinet opening. We don't replace them. We cover them with a veneer that matches the new doors, so the old finish doesn't show.

The cabinet boxes and the layout stay the same. Your countertops, sink, plumbing, and appliances usually aren't touched, because nothing behind the cabinet fronts gets removed. That's why the job costs less and goes faster than a tear-out.

What condition your cabinets need to be in

Since the boxes stay, they need to be in good condition. New doors can't fix rot, serious water damage, or structural problems. We won't reface over a box with those issues. The sink base is a common trouble spot. Particle boards that get wet over the years can go soft or swell. If you spot a leak under the sink, get it fixed first. The EPA's guide to mold and moisture in the home says to fix plumbing leaks as soon as possible. It also recommends drying water-damaged materials within 24 to 48 hours to prevent mold.

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Bright kitchen with white cabinets and a blue island that opens to a patio

Kitchen remodels are one of the most popular and effective ways to increase the value of a home. A well-designed and functional kitchen is a major selling point for homebuyers and can significantly impact the overall value of a property.

Here are some of the ways that kitchen remodels can increase the value of a home:

Improved Functionality: A kitchen remodel can improve the layout and functionality of the space, making it more efficient and easier to use. This can include adding more counter space, upgrading appliances, and optimizing storage solutions.

Updated Design: A modern and updated kitchen design can significantly improve the overall appearance of a home. This can include updated cabinets, countertops, and flooring, as well as new lighting fixtures and hardware.

Energy Efficiency: Many kitchen remodels include the installation of energy-efficient appliances and lighting, which can save homeowners money on their utility bills and appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.

Increased Square Footage: A kitchen that adds more usable space is one of the biggest benefits. Extra room for storage, prep, and gatherings make a home feel larger and more livable, and that can significantly raise a home's overall value.

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Wood sideboard cabinet with slatted doors in a styled living space

Cabinet Resurfacing vs. Cabinet Refacing

Kitchen remodeling can be a daunting task, especially if you’re on a tight budget. One of the most cost-effective ways to update your kitchen cabinets is by either resurfacing or refacing them. Both options are great alternatives to replacing your cabinets entirely, but it’s important to understand the differences between the two before making a decision.

Cabinet Resurfacing

Cabinet resurfacing, also known as cabinet refinishing, involves sanding down the existing cabinets and applying a fresh coat of paint or stain. This process can be done quickly and efficiently, making it a great option for those who want a quick update to their kitchen without the expense of a full remodel. Resurfacing is a good choice if your existing cabinets are still in good shape, but are looking a little worn or outdated. By painting or staining your cabinets, you can give them a whole new look without the expense of a full replacement. Additionally, resurfacing is a great way to save time and money compared to other remodeling options.

Cabinet Refacing

Cabinet refacing, on the other hand, involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts while leaving the existing cabinet boxes intact. The process involves removing the old doors and drawer fronts, and then attaching new ones. You can also replace the hinges and hardware to complete the transformation. Cabinet Refacing is a more expensive option than resurfacing, but it can be a better choice if your existing cabinets are damaged, or if you want a more significant change to the look and feel of your kitchen. Cabinet Refacing also offers more design options, as you can choose from a wide range of materials and finishes for your new doors and drawer fronts.

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Mother and two kids sitting on the counter in a kitchen with light blue cabinets

Better Cabinets and Bath started with a simple vision: to provide better kitchen and bath redesign options as an innovative and affordable alternative to complete replacement – and we stick to that. This is your dream project and we are here to make those dreams come true. To ensure your satisfaction, we promise that:

  • All our technicians are background checked
  • We are licensed and insured for your protection
  • We will arrive on time
  • We will complete the project within the time promised
  • We only use the highest quality products
  • Your satisfaction is our 100% guarantee
  • You will be offered a no-hassle price
  • You will love your Better Cabinets and Bath experience!

Here at Better Cabinets and Bath, we offer a handful of services. We offer cabinet refinishing, cabinet refacing, and cabinet modifications. Here is a little highlight of each service:

Cabinet Refinishing

Our most common service is cabinet refinishing. First, we clean and sand the cabinet surfaces to create a “fresh canvas” for our work. Secondly, we apply a priming coat to add another layer of protection. Third, we use water-based poly acrylic paint to create the color you have always wanted in your kitchen or bathroom. Lastly, and most importantly, we apply a protective clear coat to keep your new paint safe from any significant knicks and dings!

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White kitchen with a wood-base island, leather bar stools, and brass pendant lights

Ready to Love Your Kitchen or Bathroom Again?

Tell us about your space and we’ll show you what’s possible — no pressure, no obligation. Serving Rockledge, Melbourne, and the Space Coast — from Titusville to Vero Beach.

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