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Photo of white cabinet door hardware installation with text overlay: Cabinet Hardware Placement: A Simple Guide

Where To Place Cabinet Hardware: Guide for Paneled & Slab Cabinet Doors

When you’re updating your kitchen with new cabinet fronts, choosing the right hardware is only half the decision—the other half is deciding where to place it.

While it might seem like a small detail, hardware placement plays a big role in both the function and overall look of your kitchen. That’s why we’ve created a simple guide to help you visualize the most popular options for both panel and slab styles.

Why Hardware Placement Matters

Great hardware placement should:

  • Feel natural and comfortable when you open a cabinet or drawer
  • Complement the lines and proportions of the door style
  • Contribute to a clean, consistent look across your kitchen

There’s no one “right” option—but there are some best practices, depending on your door style and how you use your kitchen. Below are our most common placement options, broken out by panel and slab designs.

Paneled Door & Drawer Placement

Panel-style doors have built-in detailing and structure, so placement often aligns with those visual elements for balance.

For Doors:

  • Aligned: Pulls or knobs are aligned with the top rail of the door frame—clean and traditional.
  • Offset: Slightly offset from the rail and stile intersection—adds a modern twist.
  • Centered: Centered within the corner of the door frame—symmetrical and eye-catching.

For Drawers:

  • Centered (both vertical and horizontal): A classic choice for balanced visual appeal.
  • Above Rail: Great for multi-panel drawers where the top pull sits just above the panel’s rail for easy access.

Slab Door & Drawer Placement

Slab-style doors have a smooth, modern face—so placement decisions are often about proportion and visual weight.

For Doors:

  • Standard placement is 2″ from the bottom and side, which keeps it functional and clean, while maintaining a modern feel.

For Drawers:

  • Centered: Straightforward and balanced.
  • Top Down Match: Aligns the placement from drawer to drawer for a unified stacked look.
  • Raised: Shifts the pull slightly upward on each drawer for easier reach and a more contemporary vibe.

Tips for Choosing the Right Option

When choosing your hardware placement, consider how you use your space on a daily basis. If comfort and ease of access are top priorities, raised drawer pulls may offer a more ergonomic option. In modern kitchens, slab doors paired with clean, minimal hardware placement help maintain a sleek, streamlined aesthetic. For more classic or transitional styles, aligned or centered hardware on paneled doors provides a timeless, balanced look. And if you’re ever unsure, centered placement is always a safe and stylish choice.

Not quite sure which placement is right for your space?

Seeing your hardware options up close can make all the difference. Try testing a few placement ideas with painter’s tape or a paper template before you commit. And if you’re looking for the perfect knobs or pulls to complete your look—explore our hardware today! Our team is always here to help you make the best choice for your kitchen.

Front + Center Partners with HGTV Star, Dave Marrs

We’re thrilled to announce our partnership with the incredible Dave Marrs—home renovator, builder, and co-host of Fixer to Fabulous on HGTV!

Known for transforming outdated spaces into warm, welcoming dream homes, Dave brings his trusted eye for design and building experience to Front + Center. Together, we’re showing homeowners and pros that a kitchen makeover doesn’t have to involve disruptive demolition.

“What I really like about Front + Center is that it’s simple, it’s sustainable, and it’s quick,” Dave shares in our newest video. “There are just so many advantages to not having to rip out your entire kitchen and start over.”

What is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing is a smart alternative to a full kitchen remodel. Instead of tearing out your entire kitchen, refacing keeps your existing cabinet boxes in tact and replaces only the visible components—like doors, drawer fronts, hardware, and hinges. It offers the same fresh, updated look you’d expect from a full remodel but without the cost, mess, or extended downtime.

At Front + Center, we specialize in high-quality, durable cabinet refacing materials such as doors and drawer fronts in various styles and finishes, hardware, soft close hinges, and other materials that allow homeowners and professionals to give their kitchens and other spaces a  refresh without starting from scratch. 

If you’re comparing cabinet refacing to a full kitchen remodel, here’s what you need to know:

  • Timeline: Refacing projects are typically completed in days, not weeks—no need to move out or disrupt your routine. Remodeling can take weeks or even months, depending on the scope.
  • Cost: Refacing is significantly more affordable than a full remodel, with the average project costing about one-third to half the price of replacing all cabinetry.
  • Sustainability: By reusing your cabinet boxes, refacing generates less waste and supports a more eco-friendly renovation.
  • Customization: With refacing, you can still update your space with appliance panels, glass door inserts, soft-close drawers, new hardware, floating shelves, lighting, and more—without changing the entire layout. You can also still replace countertops and flooring at the same time or even later on down the road. The customization options are nearly endless. 

Design That Preserves Character

Dave Marrs believes that “beautiful spaces are most often imperfect and full of character—just like the people who live in them.” That belief is exactly why this partnership makes so much sense. With Front + Center, homeowners don’t have to erase what makes their home special to enjoy an update. 

Instead, cabinet refacing offers a thoughtful way to update the space with new colors, materials, and finishes—while preserving the kitchen’s original footprint and charm.

“I was a little nervous when I started too,” Dave admits, “but after doing my first kitchen with Front + Center, it’s quick, it’s easy, it’s economical—and it completely transforms your kitchen.”

Dave Marrs Recommends Cabinet Refacing

In our latest video, Dave shares his personal experience working with Front + Center—what surprised him, what made the process simple, and why he confidently recommends it to both homeowners and fellow pros. 

Whether you’re on a tight timeline, a tight budget, or just looking for a smarter way to upgrade your kitchen, Dave’s testimonial highlights why cabinet refacing is the perfect solution.

Tamara Day Introduces the Hometown Collection—Where Every Door Tells a Story

Design That Feels Like Home

We believe your kitchen should reflect who you are—and that’s exactly what these new door styles deliver. Meet the Hometown Collection by designer and TV personality Tamara Day. Each door style is more than a cabinet door; it’s a reflection of personal history. These styles were created with design-forward thinking, and the kind of character that makes a house feel like home.

Inspired by the places that shaped her most, Tamara Day brought her signature blend of livable luxury and heartfelt design to life in three distinct cabinet door front styles: Manhattan, Timken, and Salina. Available in all of our colors—and even as a paintable option for a custom match—these doors were created to fit any design vision, from bold and modern to soft and classic.

“Great design is for everyone at every price point,” says Tamara. “With Front + Center, great design is exactly what you will get! A wide selection of colors, styles, and a custom kitchen that is unique to you!”

Manhattan

If your design taste leans modern but you love a timeless touch, Manhattan may be the perfect match. Inspired by Tamara’s formative years living in the city, this door style is designed to make a statement.

“When I think of Manhattan, I think of the years I spent learning and growing in a place full of energy and opportunity,” she shares. “This door style reflects that vibrant, elevated feeling. It’s bold yet timeless, designed to make a statement without overwhelming the room.”

Clean lines and thoughtful craftsmanship come together to create a style that feels sophisticated and fresh—perfect for those who want their kitchen to stand out while still feeling classic.

Timken

Named after the small town where Tamara’s father, Ward, grew up, the Timken door brings with it a sense of legacy and understated elegance.

“Timken is a tribute to the rich family history that shaped who I am today,” Tamara says. “This door combines classic design with a touch of nostalgia… It’s the kind of door that will always stand the test of time.”

The defining feature of Timken is its subtle octagonal shaping. This style offers just enough detail to be interesting, while remaining understated and timeless.

Salina

A tribute to Tamara’s own roots, the Salina door captures the charm and warmth of a hometown kitchen.

“Salina holds such a special place in my heart because it’s where my story began,” she says. “With a design that feels both grounded and inviting, it has a way of transforming any space into a place that feels like home.”

The rounded edges and soft curves of Salina bring a gentle elegance to any space. Salina’s welcoming vibe makes it an ideal choice for creating a space that’s relaxed, approachable, and filled with meaning.

Why Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing gives your kitchen a new look without the cost or disruption of a full renovation. With Front + Center, you can replace your cabinet fronts with beautifully crafted doors while keeping your existing cabinet boxes intact. It’s eco-friendly, affordable, and allows you to customize your space with added upgrades like new hardware, lighting, paneling, new countertops, backsplash, and any other elements you want to upgrade.

Personalize Your Space with the Tamara Day Hometown Collection

Whether you’re drawn to the clean edges of Manhattan, the refined lines of Timken, or the gentle curves of Salina, the Hometown Collection allows you to build a kitchen that feels custom to you. Each door style has its own unique vibe, bringing just the right touch of charm and character to your next project. It’s all about those subtle details that make a space feel like home.

Why Cabinet Refacing Is Better Than Painting

​When contemplating a kitchen makeover, homeowners often gravitate towards the idea of painting their existing, outdated cabinets for an updated look. While painting may appear to be a cost-effective solution, it’s essential to understand the potential drawbacks and the benefits of refacing before making a decision.

Understanding Cabinet Refacing

When you reface, you replace the visible parts of your cabinetry—such as doors, drawer fronts, and hardware—while the existing frames and cabinet boxes stay intact. This process provides a fresh, updated look without the need for a complete cabinet replacement. It’s an effective way to transform your kitchen’s appearance, especially if you’re satisfied with the current layout and the cabinet structures are in good condition.

The Drawbacks of Painting Cabinets

While painting cabinets can refresh their look, there are several drawbacks. Painted cabinets are prone to chipping, peeling, and showing wear over time, leading to frequent touch-ups and maintenance. Achieving a professional finish requires meticulous preparation, including thorough cleaning, sanding, and priming. Without proper execution, the results may not be the quality you expected. Additionally, painting only changes the color of your cabinets; if the door styles are outdated or damaged, paint won’t address these issues.

Cost Comparison: Painting vs. Refacing vs. Replacing

Generally, painting is the least expensive option, with costs ranging from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the kitchen size and labor involved. Cabinet refacing is more costly than painting but less expensive than a full replacement. The average cost for cabinet refacing ranges between $4,000 and $9,500, depending on factors like materials used and the number of cabinets. A full replacement is the most expensive route, with costs that can be upwards of $77,000. However, a full replacement varies widely based on materials and kitchen size. 

Customization and Upgrades with Refacing

One of the advantages of cabinet refacing is the ability to customize and personalize your kitchen further. You can add matching panels to cover appliances, creating a cohesive and modern look. Incorporating glass panels into cabinet doors allows you to showcase dishware or add visual interest. Choosing new knobs, pulls, and handles can complement your kitchen’s refreshed style!

Conclusion

While painting kitchen cabinets might offer a quick fix, the potential for chipping, ongoing maintenance, and limited improvements make it a less favorable option for homeowners. Refacing provides a durable, customizable, and cost-effective alternative to a full cabinet replacement. By choosing refacing, you can achieve a significant kitchen transformation that encompasses both style and functionality.

Kitchen of a freshly refaced kitchen with a spring outdoor setting.

Give Your Kitchen a Spring Refresh With Cabinet Refacing

Spring is the perfect time to rejuvenate your kitchen, starting with your cabinet fronts. Clean, well-organized cabinets enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen and improve functionality. Here’s a comprehensive guide to cleaning your cabinet fronts and optimizing storage with smart solutions and organization.

Cleaning Your Cabinet Fronts

  1. Create Your Own Cleaning Solution: Prepare a gentle cleaner by mixing 50/50 one part dish soap with one part hot water. This solution effectively cuts through grease without damaging the cabinet finish.​
  2. Apply to Solution: Dampen a microfiber cloth with the cleaning solution, ensuring it’s not overly wet to prevent moisture damage. Wipe each cabinet door from top to bottom, paying special attention to handles and edges where grime accumulates.​ Avoid spraying any solution directly on the cabinet front.
  3. Tackling Stubborn Grease Stains: For persistent grease spots, create a paste using baking soda and water. Apply it to the affected area, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently scrub with a sponge or soft brush.

Organizing Your Cabinets

A well-organized cabinet system increases efficiency while using your kitchen. Here are some tips to achieve optimal organization:

  • Declutter: Remove items you no longer use or need. This creates more space and makes organizing easier. 
  • Group Similar Items Together: Store like items together, such as placing all baking supplies in one area and cooking utensils in another. This zoning method can help to streamline the cooking processes. ​
  • Use Drawer Dividers and Shelf Risers: This can help separate items within drawers and maximize vertical space in cabinets, keeping everything in its place. ​
  • Adjust Shelf Heights: Customize cabinet shelves to accommodate items of varying heights, making efficient use of space.
  • Utilize Cabinet Sides: The sides of cabinets can be equipped with hooks or slim shelves to hold utensils, spices, or towels, making use of every inch of space.​
  • Incorporate Baskets and Bins: Use baskets or bins inside cabinets to group similar items together. This approach keeps your cabinets organized and makes it easier to find what you need.​

Smart Storage Solutions

Once you’ve organized the essentials inside and are noticing you still need more storage space, consider these solutions to maximize space and functionality:

  • Extend Cabinets to the Ceiling: Utilize the often-wasted space between the top of your cabinets and the ceiling by extending your cabinets upward. This not only provides additional storage but also creates a seamless, built-in look.​
  • Install Floating Shelves: Add floating shelves to open wall space for extra storage and as a decorative display area. They are perfect for storing frequently used items or showcasing decorative pieces such as plates, bowls, and other cookware. 
  • Add a Kitchen Island with Cabinets: Adding a kitchen island equipped with cabinets offers extra storage and counter space. This addition can serve as a focal point in your kitchen while providing many practical benefits.

Spring is the ideal season to breathe new life into your kitchen, focusing on both its aesthetic and functionality. By implementing effective cleaning, well thought-out organization strategies, and smart storage solutions, you can turn your kitchen into a place where you truly love to be!​

Ready to Start Your Cabinet Refacing Spring Project?

With cabinet refacing, you can turn your kitchen into a space that meets your functional needs and inspires you. Whether you’re aiming to modernize your cabinets, enhance storage solutions, or seek professional design guidance, our team is here to assist. Explore our wide selection of cabinet styles and colors today! 

The Sustainability Behind Cabinet Refacing

Introduction

When it comes to updating your kitchen, sustainability is a responsibility. Transform the look of your space while prioritizing the health of our planet. Let’s explore how kitchen refacing and our commitment to sustainable materials make a difference.

The Refacing Process is a Smarter, Greener Choice

Refacing is an affordable and sustainable way for homeowners to update their kitchens or any other space in their home. Instead of tearing out and discarding all of your existing cabinets, refacing allows you to reuse the cabinet boxes and replace only the cabinet fronts with new doors and drawer fronts. This approach reduces landfill waste while giving your kitchen a stunning new look. It’s a smarter choice for your home—and the planet. Plus, when you keep your existing boxes the carbon footprint of shipping is reduced since you aren’t shipping air around the country!

MDF Composite Doors

All of our door fronts use MDF composite doors as core material. MDF is crafted from wood fibers (repurposes sawdust and wood chips) and resin, making it an engineered material that uses fewer natural resources than solid wood. This type of door uses 99% of the tree as opposed to solid wood which uses less than half. This material also stores 40% more carbon than is used in production making it a climate positive product. Compared to solid wood, MDF is more sustainable to produce, reducing the environmental impact without compromising on style and performance.

Introducing ECOS: Taking Sustainability to the Next Level

We’re excited to take our commitment to sustainability even further with the launch of our ECOS products. This new line features 3D Laminate cabinet fronts made from recycled materials. Materials like recycled water bottles are being repurposed to create the beautiful, durable surfaces in our ECOS products. 

The ECOS line includes three stunning new shades:

  1. Roja ECOS – A warm, earthy red
  2. Baja ECOS – A cool, coastal blue
  3. Oasis ECOS – A serene, desert-inspired neutral

By refacing and choosing colors from the ECOS line, you’re not just upgrading the look of your kitchen, you’re also making a decision to support recycled materials and reduce landfill waste. 

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint 

Every small decision adds up to big changes for our planet. Whether it’s opting for the refacing process versus a full remodel, choosing our MDF composite doors, or exploring the new ECOS line, you’re taking steps towards a greener future. 

Shop our new ECOS products now! 

Graphic featuring the new Front + Center mobile app used in a kitchen refacing project.

Introducing the Front + Center App: The Ultimate Tool for DIY Kitchen Remodeling

Introduction

We are thrilled to announce the launch of our new app, specifically designed to make the refacing process easier than ever. With just a few taps, you can calculate your door sizes, choose your favorite colors and styles, and place your order.

Why We Created the Mobile App

Starting a kitchen project can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to selecting the right style and calculating door sizes. Our app was developed to simplify this process. We believe that the app makes refacing accessible even for those new to DIY projects. “Design thinking workshops uncovered customer insights that helped steer the creation of this app and other support that we hope will encourage DIYers to start a kitchen refresh and feel confident that Front + Center is there to help them every step of the way,” noted Missy Sjerven, Vice President of Marketing.

Explore the App’s Features

  1. Product Selection Assistance

Users can explore Front + Center’s curated cabinet styles and finishes to find the perfect look for their space.

  1. Measuring and Calculation Support

The app accurately calculates each door’s needed dimensions based on cabinet openings and layout, ensuring users can order with confidence.

  1. User-Friendly Ordering Process

With each step clearly laid out, users can easily finalize their design and place an order, with expert assistance available if needed.

Download the Mobile App Today!

The Front + Center App empowers users to take on kitchen upgrades with confidence, knowing they can achieve high-quality results without the typical high costs and stresses of traditional renovations. Select your version below to download the app today!

Download for iOS

Download for Android

About Front + Center

Front + Center is an online retailer specializing in high-quality cabinet refacing products. F+C cabinet fronts are designed to make DIY home improvement simple, stylish, and accessible. Through innovative tools like the new mobile app, F+C is committed to transforming spaces, empowering homeowners, and bringing joy to DIYers across the country.

Sage green kitchen with IKEA cabinet boxes and doors from Front + Center

Reface Your IKEA/Frameless Cabinets With Front + Center Doors

Introduction

Looking to give your kitchen a fresh new look without the hassle or cost of a full renovation? Cabinet refacing is a simple and budget-friendly solution that can transform your space. Whether you have Frameless or IKEA cabinets or face frame cabinets, refacing allows you to keep your existing layout and cabinet boxes while swapping out doors and drawer fronts for a modern, updated look. It’s an affordable and easy way to achieve a stylish kitchen makeover without the need of a major remodel. 

How to Identify Face Frame vs. Frameless or IKEA Cabinets

Before you begin your project, it’s important to determine whether your cabinets are framed or frameless. Framed cabinets have a frame on the front of the cabinet, while Frameless do not. 

  • Framed cabinets have a noticeable front frame, as seen on the left side of the image below. This frame surrounds the cabinet opening, giving the structure added support but slightly reducing access to the interior.
  • Frameless cabinets, like IKEA models, have no front frame, as seen on the right side of the image below. 

No matter which style you have, refacing works for both, allowing you to refresh your cabinets without replacing them entirely.

Benefits of Frameless or IKEA Cabinets

Frameless cabinets open up more possibilities for your cabinet layout needs. With the universal application of Frameless cabinets, the functionality and ease of access can improve your space, offering flexibility to add drawers of any height or create door layouts. With Face Frame cabinets, you’re limited to the existing opening sizes whereas Frameless cabinets also offer options for more storage solutions and overall design flexibility.

Why Reface IKEA Cabinets?

There are many reasons to consider refacing. You might want to change the current color of your cabinets, fix damaged doors or drawers, or switch out old hardware (like changing from knobs to pulls). Refacing is a budget-friendly way to complete your IKEA/frameless cabinets. It’s an easy, affordable way to modernize your kitchen’s look and improve its functionality.

How to Determine if You Need a Replacement Drawer Box

Front + Center drawer boxes are miter folded and flat-packed, making them easy to assemble. Consider replacing your drawer box if you have a 3-sided drawer (to add a matching drawer front). Other reasons may include changing the layout from a door to drawers, or creating a combination of door and drawers. You may also need to replace the drawer if it’s damaged or if you want to upgrade to a soft-close drawer slide for a smoother glide. 

Why Purchase From F+C?

We have an amazing team ready to assist you with your design or answer any questions you may have. Ensure your project goes smooth and quickly by reaching out to our support team as you start your project. We can’t wait to help you make your vision a reality!

Start Your Refacing Project Today

We offer a wide range of door styles, colors, and customization options. Whether you’re upgrading an IKEA cabinet box or another Frameless system, we’ve got the perfect solution for your space.

Talk to a designer for FREE to get started!

White and Sage colored kitchen with refaced cabinet doors from Front + Center with text overlay "Home Upgrades Made Easy"

Cabinet Refacing: Home Upgrades Made Easy 

Introduction 

When it comes to updating your kitchen, a full remodel can feel like a daunting and expensive task. Cabinet refacing offers a simple, cost-effective alternative to giving your space a fresh new look. By replacing only the doors and drawer fronts and keeping the existing cabinet structure intact, cabinet refacing offers a stunning transformation without the mess and stress of a complete remodel. In this blog post, we will explore why cabinet refacing is not only easier but also a smarter option for homeowners seeking a kitchen upgrade. 

Why Cabinet Refacing is Better Than a Traditional Remodel 

Cost-Effective 

One of the biggest advantages of cabinet refacing is its affordability. Full kitchen remodels can be expensive, largely due to the cost of materials and labor associated with replacing cabinetry. With refacing, you get a brand-new look for a fraction of the price because the existing cabinet structure is reused. This means you can achieve a refreshed, updated kitchen without the high costs of new cabinetry or extensive construction work. 

Less Waste, More Sustainable 

Cabinet refacing is an eco-friendly choice. Since you’re reusing the existing cabinet framework, less material ends up in landfills. This reduction in waste makes refacing a more environmentally responsible option than a traditional remodel. A full remodel often involves the demolition of entire kitchen structures meaning more materials are required to rebuild.

Faster Process 

Time is another major factor when considering a kitchen update. It often takes up to 12 weeks to complete a remodel from start to finish. A full remodel involves removing all existing elements and starting new, resulting in the prolonged unavailability of your kitchen. A full remodel also comes with many challenges that make it unrealistic for most DIYers to take on by themselves. This means hiring a contractor and subjecting yourself to their timeline. While this process will give your kitchen a much more dramatic change, refacing only takes three weeks to complete and is structured to be a DIY process. 

Customizable to Your Style 

While cabinet refacing is faster and cheaper, it doesn’t mean you’re limited in design choices. You can still personalize your kitchen with a wide variety of door styles, finishes, and hardware options. Whether you prefer a modern, sleek look or a traditional aesthetic, cabinet refacing allows you to tailor your kitchen’s appearance to your unique style. Plus, adding new hardware or decorative touches can completely change the feel of your space without the need for major changes. F+C offers many different styles and colors to keep the door open for any redesign you are looking for. 

Minimal Structural Changes 

Unlike a traditional remodel that may require reworking your kitchen’s layout, plumbing, or electrical system, cabinet refacing keeps things simple. Since you’re not changing the overall structure of your kitchen, you avoid the complexities and additional costs associated with permits and extensive renovations. It’s a perfect solution for those who want cosmetic upgrades without the hassle of altering the kitchen’s bones. The frames stay the same; just the doors and drawer fronts are replaced. 

Why Cabinet Refacing is Easier 

No Need for Major Demo 

One of the most challenging parts of a full kitchen remodel is the demolition. Tearing out old cabinets, countertops, and sometimes even walls creates dust, debris, and disruption. Cabinet refacing eliminates this mess entirely—there’s no need for major demolition work. Because the existing cabinet structure remains, your home isn’t turned into a construction zone. The process is much less invasive, making it far less stressful for homeowners. 

DIY-Friendly 

Another reason cabinet refacing is easier is its accessibility for DIY enthusiasts. Many homeowners with basic tools and skills can handle a refacing project on their own, saving even more on labor costs. F+C also offers a helpline, a live chat feature, and step by step instructions to aid with this process. For those who prefer to hire a professional, the job is still far less labor-intensive and complicated than a full kitchen remodel, reducing both time and expense. 

Minimal Disruption 

A full kitchen remodel often means weeks of living without a functioning kitchen—no cooking, cleaning, or even access to your appliances. Cabinet refacing offers minimal disruption to your daily life. Since the project takes only a couple days once supplies are delivered, and the kitchen remains usable throughout the process, you can continue your routine without a major interruption. There are also no harmful chemicals used in this process, which means you can have peace of mind when using your space. 

Simplified Planning 

Planning a full kitchen remodel can be overwhelming, with endless decisions about layout, appliances, countertops, and more. Cabinet refacing simplifies the process. You don’t have to worry about moving plumbing or electrical lines, and there’s no need for complicated structural changes. With fewer decisions to make and less design complexity, refacing offers a streamlined, stress-free approach to updating your kitchen. F+C also has lots of inspiration featured on our website, along with lots of tips and tricks, making it even easier. 

Conclusion 

Cabinet refacing is the perfect solution for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen without the cost, time, and hassle of a traditional remodel. It’s an affordable, fast, and easy way to achieve a fresh new look while minimizing waste and disruption. If you’re considering changing the look of your kitchen, refacing might be the ideal option to breathe new life into your space—without the headache of a full renovation.

Wide-angle image of two kitchens before and after cabinet refacing.

How Long Does it Take To Reface Cabinets? 

Introduction

Giving your kitchen a new look can be a long and difficult process, but it doesn’t have to be. Choosing to reface your cabinets rather than doing a complete remodel is a great way to transform your look in less time and for less money. If you’re considering refacing and want to know how long it takes, keep reading as we break down how long the process typically takes from start to finish.

The Refacing Process: How Long Does it Take?

The refacing process takes about two to three weeks from start to finish – including shipping times. One of the best parts – your kitchen stays usable for almost the entire process! You start by measuring and ordering your new fronts. While you wait for your fronts to arrive, you can prepare your existing cabinet boxes, including sanding and painting. Once they arrive, simply install them onto your prepared cabinet boxes, and you’re done!

Steps For a Cabinet Refacing Project

  1. Browse Options: Explore door styles and finishes, and order free swatches.
  2. Estimate Cost: Count the number of openings you plan to update to estimate the project’s cost.
  3. Measure: Use our guide to calculate the size needed for new doors and drawer fronts.
  4. Order Custom Doors: Place your order for custom-made doors.
  5. Install: Follow our step-by-step guide to: paint cabinet boxes, install hinges, drill pilot holes, install doors, attach drawer fronts, and place handles.

The less invasive nature of the process involves refacing cabinet doors rather than removing and replacing everything. Additionally, there is no need to worry about toxic fumes from glue or paint since the doors arrive pre-finished and ready for installation. The process is simple and has step-by-step instructions so you can feel confident in upgrading your kitchen even with minimal experience or tools!

How Long Does it Take To Remodel A Kitchen?

A full remodel offers the ability to completely change the layout and look of your kitchen if that is your goal. However, this process is time consuming and invasive. It often takes up to 12 weeks to complete a remodel from start to finish. A remodel typically involves removing all existing elements and starting new, resulting in the prolonged unavailability of your kitchen. A full remodel comes with many challenges that make it unrealistic for most DIYers to take on by themselves, meaning they will have to hire a contractor which can be very expensive. While this process will give your kitchen a much more dramatic change, it comes with many costs that might make it infeasible for many homeowners.

Steps for a Full Kitchen Remodel

  1. Plan Changes: Decide on the changes you want and explore options.
  2. Hire a Contractor: Discuss plans and possibilities with your contractor.
  3. Material Prep: Allow time for the contractor to gather necessary materials.
  4. Inspections: Prepare for city inspections and potentially involve additional trades.
  5. Demolition: Remove existing kitchen features.
  6. Rebuild: Rebuild cabinet boxes, paint, and reinstall appliances if the layout changes.
  7. Install Features: Install cabinet doors, handles, and other finishing touches.

Examples of Refaced Kitchens

A completely new look can be achieved without the hassle of a complete remodel. Here are some examples of kitchens that were refaced with cabinet doors from Front + Center. 

Considering Refacing Your Cabinets?

Are you considering refacing your cabinets for a project like a kitchen, bathroom, or office? Front + Center offers many great options for high-quality, affordable cabinets and drawers. When you order from Front + Center, you get dedicated support throughout the entire process – from designing, to measuring and ordering, all the way to installation! To get started, check out our door styles and colors, or order a free color swatch to see the colors in person and start working on your design!