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Refaced kitchen with new cabinet doors and a graphic overlay with a power drill for cabinet refacing.

Essential Tools Every DIYer Needs for Kitchen Renovations

Introduction

Considering a kitchen upgrade? Equip yourself with the right refacing tools to ensure a smooth and successful project. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a beginner, it’s important to have the right tools at your disposal. In this blog post, we highlight the must-have tools every DIYer needs to tackle cabinet refacing with confidence and precision. From basic essentials to specific refacing tools, we list everything you need to tackle your DIY kitchen reno!

Essential Tools

  • Powered drill
  • Set of various sized drill bits
  • #2 Phillips head screwdriver
  • Painter’s tape
  • Measuring tape
  • Pencil and fine point permanent marker
  • Hinge mounting screws
  • Door bumpers
  • Hammer or rubber mallet
  • Ruler
  • Scotch brand heavy-duty mounting tape
  • Hardware installation template

Purpose of Each Tool in the Refacing Process

  1. Powered Drill

Speed up your project and save your wrists! A powered drill provides consistent and controlled drilling speed and torque for accurate pilot holes. They also accommodate various drill bits and attachments for versatile use in different installation tasks.

  1. Set of Various Sized Drill Bits

Various sizes of drill bits are needed to accommodate different screw sizes for hardware and hinges. They create pilot holes of varying diameters to prevent wood splitting and ensure a secure fit. They also enable precise drilling depths specific to installation requirements.

  1. #2 Phillips Hand Screwdriver

The handheld screwdriver is used to drive the hinge mounting screws into place, securing the hinges. It also helps install decorative hardware screws and securely attach handles to doors.

  1. Painter’s Tape

Painter’s tape is useful for marking drill depths to prevent over-drilling and for marking overlay dimensions for proper door placement. It protects cabinet surfaces, ensures correct alignment for drawer fronts, and marks drill hole positions for consistent hardware placement.

  1. Measuring Tape

The measuring tape facilitates accurate measurements needed for precise installation of doors and hardware.

  1. Pencil and Fine Point Marker 

Having a pencil or fine point marker is useful to mark center points for hinge placement and drill holes on the back of drawer fronts for hardware alignment.

  1. Hinge Mounting Screws

Hinge mounting screws are needed to securely attach hinges to both the door and the cabinet frame. This ensures stable alignment and smooth door operation while providing firm anchoring during installation.

  1. Door Bumpers

Door bumpers prevent doors from slamming, protecting both cabinet and door surfaces from damage. They also reduce noise by cushioning the impact when doors are closed.

Hammer or Rubber Mallet 

A hammer or rubber mallet is useful for gently securing hinges or hardware, assisting in the precise alignment of components during installation, and providing controlled force for tapping items securely into place.

  1. Ruler 

A ruler is needed for measuring and marking precise drilling and installation locations. Using a ruler ensures uniformity and alignment of components such as hinges and hardware. It also helps when verifying dimensions and maintaining consistency throughout the installation process. 

  1. Scotch brand heavy-duty mounting tape

Scotch brand heavy-duty mounting tape helps temporarily attach drawer fronts or templates to surfaces, aiding accurate positioning and alignment before permanent installation. It provides a strong hold for adjustments or repositioning, ensuring secure placements with flexibility. 

  1. Hardware Installation Template

A hardware installation template provides guidance for consistent and accurate placement of hardware. It simplifies the marking of drill holes for precise installation. It also helps maintain uniformity and alignment of hardware across multiple installations, ensuring professional results.

Conclusion

A kitchen renovation can seem overwhelming but having the right tools can make all the difference and give you an end result you can be proud of. From the versatility of a powered drill to the practicality of painter’s tape and a measuring tape, each tool serves a specific purpose for a smooth installation process. For more information about the refacing installation process please click here. Start your DIY kitchen renovation journey now with Front + Center and turn your vision into reality! 

Before and after image of a kitchen refresh from Gray Rose Home

The Cost of a Full Kitchen Remodel

The Average Cost

Renovating a kitchen is a significant investment, but understanding the costs can help you plan for your project. Let’s look at the average cost of a full kitchen remodel and explore some ways to keep the price within your budget.

The average cost of a full kitchen remodel varies greatly depending on the size of the kitchen, materials used, labor, etc…

Minor vs. Major Remodels

Minor kitchen remodels might include

  • New paint
  • Backsplash
  • Countertops
  • Flooring
  • Sink and faucet upgrade

Major kitchen remodels may also include:

  • New appliances
  • Lighting fixtures
  • Plumbing and electrical
  • New cabinet boxes

Most kitchen remodels fall between $20,000 and $50,000, with the average cost being about $25,000 – a hefty price tag and a hefty time commitment too.

Many homeowners want to upgrade the look of their kitchen but can’t justify the financial or time cost of a full remodel. One budget-friendly alternative is refacing.

Refacing – The Budget-Friendly Alternative

Let’s look at an example to see how Melissa Segelin (@grayrosehome) beautifully transformed her kitchen on a budget with cabinet refacing! We’ll break down the total cost of her refacing project using Shaker Doors and Drawer Fronts in Clay and Salt.

Products Used:

Final Price (Before Discount): $4188
With 20% Off Monthly Promo $3350

Total Cost Savings From Refacing

The average cost of a full kitchen remodel is about $25,000. However, Melissa Segelin chose a budget-friendly alternative by opting for refacing instead.

So, the total savings from refacing can be calculated as follows:

$25,000 (full remodel cost) – $3,350 (refacing cost) = $21,650 Cost Savings

Refacing offers a significant reduction in costs while still achieving a refreshed and updated look for the kitchen. It’s a budget-friendly option for homeowners who want to transform their kitchen without the expense and time commitment of a full remodel.

Ready to save big on your dream kitchen refresh? Shop now and see how you can achieve a stunning transformation without breaking the bank.

Shop Your Dream Kitchen

Clean, modern kitchen refresh with white cabinets.

From Clutter to Clarity: Spring Kitchen Refresh

Spring is a time for renewing your home, starting with one of the most used spaces: the kitchen. Here’s how you can transform your kitchen from clutter to clarity with a kitchen refresh.

Decluttering

Kickstart your kitchen makeover by decluttering, a pivotal first step that transforms your space into an organized haven. Begin by evaluating every item in your kitchen: keep, donate, or discard. This decision-making process reduces visible clutter, simplifying organization.

If you find the process overwhelming, try these methods:

  • One Room at a Time: Focus on one area or one type of item at a time to avoid burnout.
  • Four-Box Method: Use four boxes labeled “Keep,” “Donate,” “Store,” or “Trash” to categorize items.
  • 5-Minute Daily Declutter: Dedicate just five minutes each day to decluttering, making the task manageable and routine.

These strategies make it easier to maintain a clutter-free kitchen, ensuring everything you keep has a purpose and a place.

Smart Storage Solutions

After decluttering your kitchen, assigning a specific place for each item is crucial for maintaining order. Enhance your storage with drawer boxes from Front + Center, ideal for organizing everything from utensils to spices. Use floating shelves for easy dish storage and pull-out pantries for organizing food and appliances. Under-sink storage for cleaning supplies and corner drawers for other items can help you maximize every inch of space. These solutions keep your kitchen tidy and make it more functional.

Maximize Vertical Space

To maximize your kitchen’s vertical space, look beyond the usual storage solutions. Besides installing floating shelves for easy access to dishes and glassware, consider adding hanging pot racks. These racks are practical for storing pots and pans overhead—freeing up cabinet space—and also serve as a stylish focal point in your kitchen. This approach minimizes mess, maximizes space, and adds a sleek, modern look to your kitchen.

Functional Unity and Building a Routine

Enhance your kitchen’s look and usability by choosing finishes and materials that match your style and offer practical benefits for the perfect kitchen refresh. High-quality 3D laminates, for example, provide durability and ease of cleaning, making them an ideal choice for busy kitchens.

Learn more by visiting myfrontandcenter.com

Remodeled kitchen with white cabinet doors and drawer fronts.

Measure Twice, Cut Once: Eliminating Inaccuracies in Your Kitchen Face-lift

DIY enthusiasts can give their kitchen a makeover without spending too much money or time by opting for cabinet refacing. F+C’s website offers an extensive selection of styles and colors, allowing you to choose the perfect new look for your kitchen cabinets. Try the Measure With Confidence ™ program to ease your worries and cover your order in case of measuring errors! The beauty of cabinet refacing lies in its simplicity and the dramatic impact it can have on your space.

Tools and Inspiration

 Before diving into your project, gather your right tools and inspiration! You’ll need a tape measure, a pencil, and a notepad. If you want to capture before-and-afters, you’ll also need a camera! When you’ve got your tools, head over to our website to explore the myriad of cabinet styles and colors available. This exploration will inspire your project and help you choose the perfect design for your kitchen.

Measuring for Accuracy

Accurate measurement is the cornerstone of a successful cabinet refacing project. Begin by measuring the width and height of your current cabinet doors and drawer fronts. Remember to account for the overlay—the portion of the cabinet frame covered by the door or drawer front. A precise overlay measurement ensures a seamless fit and professional appearance. For an extra layer of precision, measure twice! For more information on measuring, view our measuring page!

Unparalleled Support

We understand even with the best preparations questions, and uncertainties can arise. Our team is always ready to assist you, offering support through LiveChat and our dedicated customer service number (800) 816-6422. If you need help to get started or have questions about measuring, we’re here to ensure your project progresses without a hitch.

Measure with Confidence™ Program

For those feeling unsure about DIY cabinet refacing, our Measure with Confidence™ Program can ease your worries. This safety net ensures measurement errors are covered up to your selected coverage amount. Get expert guidance and submit your project details through our online system. This program safeguards your investment, providing peace of mind.

Conclusion

Cabinet refacing is a rewarding DIY endeavor which can improve your kitchen’s look. Armed with the right tools, inspiration, and our continuous support, you’re on the path to success. Remember to “measure twice, cut once”, and approach your makeover with confidence. Front + Center is always here to assist, so your project crosses the finish line flawlessly.

Modern kitchen with refaced cabinet doors and fronts - shaker profile in white color.

Breaking it Down: The Real Costs of Kitchen Refacing

A Fresh Start for Your Kitchen

If the thought of a full kitchen remodel is too daunting or feels out of reach because of costs, cabinet refacing might be for you! Give your kitchen a fresh look by replacing old cabinet doors with new ones, while keeping and refurbishing the existing cabinet boxes. 

Refacing is a popular choice for both DIY enthusiasts and those with more advanced remodeling skills. Paint your cabinets for an easy transformation or choose our engineered materials for a more refined finish. Refacing is an appealing option for those looking to renew their kitchen without the extensive costs of a complete overhaul.

Balancing Budget and Style

Typically, kitchen cabinet refacing projects fall within the range of $10,000 to $15,000. However, this estimate excludes expenses related to appliances, countertops, and flooring. The final price also may vary depending on factors such as the chosen finishes, door styles, and additional customization options. For instance, opting for premium finishes or intricate door designs may slightly increase the overall cost.

According to HomeAdvisor, as mentioned on HGTV’s website, the average cost for a full kitchen remodel in 2023 ranged from $14,549 to $40,425. This range can cover a variety of remodeling scales, from minor updates to more comprehensive renovations. For more lavish remodels, the costs can soar to as much as $130,000+. Let’s Break it down. 

Cabinet Boxes: Replacing cabinet boxes might cost between $5,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on materials and kitchen size.

Countertops: New countertops can range from $2,000 for basic materials to over $10,000 for high-end stone like granite or marble.

Flooring: Updating kitchen flooring can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000, with premium materials like hardwood at the higher end of the spectrum.

Choosing to reface cuts down on the expenditure for new cabinet boxes and minimizes the need for additional plumbing, electrical, and construction work often required in a full remodel.

Eco-Savvy and Smart Spending with Refacing

Cabinet refacing offers a green approach to kitchen makeover without handing over a pretty penny. By updating your existing cabinet boxes, you reduce environmental impact. Plus, use the money you saved for other kitchen upgrades. Reinvest in upgrading countertops, flooring, or appliances to amplify the aesthetic of your space! You can conserve resources and reallocate your budget for a comprehensive, cost-effective kitchen transformation.

To summarize, refacing offers a clever, cost-effective, and eco-conscious solution for enhancing your kitchen. For a specific estimate tailored to your project, visit Estimate Your Space.

Source: HGTV. “What Is the Average Cost to Remodel a Kitchen?” Available Here.

Landscape image of stylish modern kitchen transformation with sage green cabinet door fronts and drawers.

Green + Gorgeous: Your Guide to Sustainable Kitchen Transformations

 Revamp + Revitalize with Cabinet Refacing

2024 is here, and it’s the perfect time to make our homes eco-friendly havens, starting with our kitchens. How? Meet cabinet refacing – the solution to a sustainable kitchen transformation. Reduce waste by keeping your current cabinet boxes and giving them a stylish makeover. This reduces the use of wood and diminishes emissions from manufacturing and transportation. Think of it as giving your kitchen a “green facelift.” It’s a small step with a big impact, allowing you to contribute to a healthier planet while enjoying a kitchen that feels brand new.

A Smart Switch

Is your refrigerator running…up your utility bill? We wouldn’t be surprised if it is. Energy.gov states modern refrigerators use 75% less energy than those made in 1973. That’s quite the difference! The savvy switch from energy-guzzling models to sleek, energy-star rated counterparts will reduce your carbon footprint and trim down your utility bill. It’s the perfect union of functionality, savings, and a commitment to the environment.

Every Drop Counts

Water conservation is simple. Start with installing low-flow faucets and fixing leaks. Then do a victory dance with the environment! Choosing water-efficient dishwashers can safeguard this precious resource, too. These minor changes can make an enormous wave in reducing water wastage. Every mindful step you take saves our precious H2O and crafts a kitchen space that’s trendy and eco-conscious. 

Decor with a Green Touch

You can make your kitchen into a world of upcycled elegance, where every decor piece in your kitchen isn’t just an accessory; it’s a statement of sustainability and style. Vintage glassware gleaming on open shelves, a repurposed wine crate doubling as a spice rack, and antique handles gracing cabinet doors are just a few great examples of this. Upcycling is more than reusing; it’s infusing your kitchen with a distinctive charm that celebrates creativity and eco-conscious living.  Old treasures find new life, and your kitchen becomes a gallery of sustainable beauty.

Nurture the allure of your newly refaced cabinets with eco-conscious cleaning rituals. Choose natural, non-toxic cleaners – a gentle embrace for your stunning cabinets and our precious planet. Take it a step further and make your own sustainable and affordable surface cleaner. Combine Simple Green in a 50/50 mix with water, add 10-15 drops of essential oil like lemon for fragrance, and transfer to a spray bottle. Now you’ve got a gentle, eco-friendly degreaser perfect for your kitchen!

Conclusion

Your 2024 kitchen makeover is more than a pretty face- it’s a statement of dedication to the planet. Give your cabinets a chic new look with cabinet refacing, the solution to a sustainable kitchen transformation. Pair them with energy-efficient appliances, and adopt water-wise habits. These choices are a recipe for a kitchen that’s both breathtaking and mindful. Cheers to creating a more stylish, greener, more sustainable kitchen in 2024!

Visit our website to browse our cabinet refacing products or learn more about the refacing process.

Clean, modern kitchen with white door refacing fronts.

Overcoming the Fears of Cabinet Door Refacing

In the realm of home renovations, the prospect of a cabinet door refacing project can be both exciting and daunting. It’s a transformative journey that promises a fresh, updated space but often comes with its fair share of fears. Let’s explore these common apprehensions and discover how to navigate them with confidence. 

1. Budget Concerns

Finances are a significant source of anxiety for many contemplating a room makeover. However, knowing your financial boundaries can ease this common fear. As you begin your journey, create a practical budget, use expert quotes, and find cost-effective materials! With Front + Center, achieving an affordable and stunning room makeover is a practical journey.

2. Disruption to Daily Life

Worried about disruption during your remodel? With Front + Center, choose professional installation or go the DIY route—your call. Timelines vary based on factors like installer availability and project scope. Most cabinet refacing projects take 1-4 days, and the full process, from meeting a Pro to installation, spans 4-6 weeks. DIY? It’s on your time, making your project a breeze. Let’s make it happen, stress-free! 

3. Fear of Regret

Don’t let the fear of design missteps hold you back. Visualize your kitchen’s finished look and combat uncertainty through mood boards. The beauty of cabinet door refacing? Even if you want a fresh vibe in a few years, you can effortlessly transform your kitchen multiple times, all while keeping the sturdy foundation of your cabinet boxes. Its design freedom at its finest! 

4. Worries about Measuring 

Although measuring is a crucial step in your kitchen refacing journey, it doesn’t have to induce anxiety. At Front + Center, we understand the importance of accurate measurements, and we’re here to make sure it gets done right. The Measuring page on our website offers detailed instruction, making the whole process a breeze. Still worried you’ll need a guiding hand? Reach out through our chat function or give us a call at (800) 816-6422.

5. Sustainability Concerns

Concerned about sustainability? By reusing existing cabinet boxes, we reduce landfill waste and the environmental impact of manufacturing new ones. Front + Center takes it a step further—we use VOC-free materials in our engineered Fronts + Refacing Supplies. It’s a worry-free, sustainable choice for your kitchen makeover.

Refacing your kitchen is a thrilling transformation journey, complete with its share of fears. But fear not! Armed with knowledge, realistic expectations, and our stellar team here to help, you’re ready to navigate with confidence. Take the “Is Refacing Right for Me?” quiz if you still have reservations or chat with us now!

The JOY Factor: Elevate Your Home Happiness with DIY Cabinet Door Refacing

Modern kitchen with natural wood and fineline shaker cabinet doors from Front + Center in the color sage.

Embarking on a home improvement project is about changing aesthetics and creating spaces that resonate with joy. Your home remodeling journey needs to begin somewhere. Why not start where you can get the most joy out of your upgrade?

In her recent article (linked below), Brenda Richardson examines a report by the National Association of Realtors. The report highlights the home remodeling projects that bring the most happiness. You might be surprised to find out which room bring the most happiness for your dollar.

What is the JOY Factor? Unveiling the Essence of Home Happiness

The JOY Factor measures the joy and fulfillment people feel after finishing a remodeling project. This includes the visual appeal, practicality, and overall improvement of living quality in the renovated space.

Americans invest a staggering $400 billion per year in home renovations in pursuit of joy, Richardson points out. Only 35% of homeowners express a preference for moving to a new home rather than tackling the overwhelming task of remodeling.

The Perfect 10: Kitchen Renovation and Front + Center’s Expertise

The report unveils a complete kitchen renovation, a project that Front + Center specializes in, scores a perfect 10 on the Joy Score. This score signifies satisfaction and a profoundly heightened desire to be at home. What a powerful testament to the joy a meticulously transformed space can bring. Cabinet refacing is an affordable and sustainable alternative to a full cabinet box rip out and remodel. 

Front + Center’s engineered materials go beyond simple cabinet doors; they are a canvas for homeowners to craft personalized, joy-filled spaces. We offer a durable finish that enhances the appearance of your kitchen and gives you the satisfaction of a DIY cabinet door refacing project well done!

Thanks for reading this blog post about the joy factor and DIY cabinet refacing! To get started with your project, order a FREE Color Swatch from Front + Center!

References

Richardson, Brenda. “Home Remodeling Projects That Pay Back the Most in Happiness.” Forbes, Forbes Magazine, 8 Jan. 2021, www.forbes.com/sites/brendarichardson/2019/10/06/home-remodeling-projects-that-pay-back-the-most-in-happiness/?sh=f1e96a2160dc.

National Association of REALTORS® Research Group. National Association of Realtors®, www.nar.realtor/sites/default/files/documents/2019-remodeling-impact-10-03-2019.pdf.

In Pursuit of Purpose: Embracing 2024’s Livable Kitchen Color Trends

If you’re anything like us, you’re constantly looking for new ways to freshen up your home’s decor. Well, 2024 is shaping up to be an exciting year for interior design! We’re saying goodbye to some old favorites and welcoming in some fabulous new trends. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of design for the coming year!

Terra Cotta Takes Center Stage

First and foremost, let’s talk about terra cotta. This earthy, warm, and timeless material has been making a comeback in a big way. Terra cotta is trending like never before, and it’s not just for flower pots anymore. This natural hue is driving new neutrals into our homes, creating a sense of warmth and vibrance that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re incorporating it into your decor through pottery, tiles, or even wall paint, terra cotta is here to stay, and it’s all about embracing its rich, earthy tones.

Cracked Pepper: The Color of 2024

Every year, we eagerly await the announcement of Behr’s color of the year, and 2024’s choice has us all buzzing with excitement. Say hello to “Cracked Pepper”! This deep, dramatic shade is all about embracing eclectic design and making a bold statement. It’s the perfect choice for those who want to step out of their comfort zone and experiment with more adventurous color palettes. Whether you’re using it on your walls, in your accents, or even as a cabinet color, Cracked Pepper is sure to bring an air of sophistication and drama to your space. Check out Front + Center’s Pepper Shaker for an easy way to incorporate this color in a big way.

Green Replaces Blue

In the world of furniture and cabinetry, there’s a major shift happening. Blue, which has been a staple in interior design for quite some time, is taking a back seat to green. This refreshing change brings a sense of nature and tranquility into our homes. Whether you opt for a true green like sage or a more subtle neutral-cast hue, green is the new go-to color for adding a pop of personality to your furniture and cabinetry.

Millennial Pink is Out

It’s time to bid adieu to millennial pink. While it had its moment in the sun, it’s time for this trend to take a backseat. Instead, we’re embracing bolder, more vibrant colors that infuse our spaces with energy and personality.

A Backlash to Farmhouse

As much as we love the charm of farmhouse style, there’s a noticeable shift away from it in 2024. Don’t get us wrong; farmhouse will always hold a special place in our hearts. But now, we’re seeing a desire for homes that exude character and warmth while still maintaining a contemporary and clean look. It’s all about striking that perfect balance between rustic charm and modern sophistication.

Purposeful, Meaningful Spaces

In 2024, the focus is on creating purposeful and meaningful spaces in our homes. We want rooms that feel lived in but not cluttered. This means carefully curating our decor and furnishings to tell a story, reflect our personalities, and serve a practical purpose. It’s about creating spaces that make us feel truly at home.

Contemporary Kitchen Cabinets with Personality

When it comes to the kitchen, contemporary is the name of the game in 2024. But don’t think for a second that contemporary means sterile! People are looking for kitchen cabinets that are not only sleek and modern but also have the ability to hide clutter while showcasing touches of personality. It’s all about clever storage solutions and incorporating unique design elements that make the heart of your home truly special.

New Neutrals: Welcome CLAY

To complement the terra cotta trend, we’re seeing the emergence of new neutrals like CLAY and DUNE. These soft, earthy tones pair perfectly with terra cotta accessories, art pieces, rugs, and even counter stool upholstery. CLAY brings a sense of balance and harmony to your space, making it the perfect companion for our beloved terra cotta. 

Pictured: Mitre Shaker Style in Dune

See how Lindsay Polidore infused purposefulness into her kitchen with this warm, comfortable color.

So there you have it! The design trends for 2024 are all about embracing the warmth of terra cotta, experimenting with dramatic colors like Cracked Pepper, and creating purposeful, meaningful spaces that reflect our personalities. It’s an exciting time for embracing 2024’s livable kitchen color trends in interior design, and we can’t wait to see how you bring these trends to life in your own homes.

Customer Spotlight: Lake and Lumber

Lake and Lumber: LAKE HOUSE CABINET REFACING WITH FRONT + CENTER

At Front + Center we love highlighting our customers who go on to create beautiful spaces using our products. We see so many talented designs, DIY projects, and kitchen remodels that we want to share the results with you and hopefully pass along some inspiration or help for your next project.

In a recent project, we were able to work with Melissa from Lake and Lumber. She was working on a lake house project that was looking to get a face-lift in the kitchen via cabinet refacing. The results turned out amazing! In the following she discusses her project and the process she went through in her own words.

“5 years ago we purchased our lake house in southeast Michigan as an estate sale purchase and we have never looked back. It was in desperate need of a makeover (hello beige!) and piece by piece, we cleaned, painted, styled, and brought it to life. However, the 1960’s kitchen with original cabinetry, brown laminate countertops, and asbestos-filled flooring seemed like the project that would always get kicked down the road. After all, kitchen renovations are EXTREMELY pricey, right? That was until we stumbled upon Front + Center and their DIY cabinet refacing options…

I had heard of people having their kitchen cabinets “refaced” and had always been told that the process costs upwards of 10k for an average-sized kitchen, which was WAY out of our budget for a project on our “second home.” What I didn’t realize, was that the majority of that cost was in labor and that Front + Center was bringing its DIY cabinet refacing supplies to market, aimed specifically at people like us who have a basic understanding of a few power tools and paint and are willing to put in a little elbow grease to get it done!

Before we get too deep here, let me show you what we were working with. The cabinet boxes were old, but still in really good shape. The layout of the kitchen (other than the oversized refrigerator that is awkwardly placed) worked for us, which meant that there was no need to rip out all of the cabinets. This is one of the main factors to consider when deciding if refacing is right for you; does your current layout work for you and your family? The second decision was whether to paint the cabinet boxes (hybrid refacing) or do a full reface. The full reface, which is offered by Front + Center is done using a 3M backed material to “skin” your old cabinets. I chose the painting option to save money and for the ease of installation. If your cabinet boxes are in really rough shape, you may choose to go with a full reface.

Step one was to order cabinet finish samples from Front + Center. You can order free samples here and they arrive in 7-10 business days. Be sure to pull the protective film off of each sample to see an accurate finish (coming from someone who did NOT)! We decided to take the plunge with a deep blue color called Deep Sea. It seemed like the perfect way to add color to the lake house and with plans for a white marble backsplash and countertops, I just couldn’t resist!

Once you have decided on a color, the next step is to measure. While this can seem intimidating at first, Front + Center has worked hard to make it DIY-friendly and even has an entire section of their website dedicated to walking you through the process! You can find the videos and measuring steps here! All I had to do was measure my openings and add .5″ to each side. Since the doors come pre-drilled for hinges, the hard part is done for you!

Once the cabinet faces had been measured you are able to choose from 4 different door styles and 8 colorways! The online ordering process is seamless and the cabinet refacing supplies will be shipped directly to your home in a few weeks. While waiting for the door and drawer fronts to arrive, I focused on prepping and painting the cabinet boxes! I removed the old door/drawer fronts and all hardware. Using wood filler, I patched old hardware holes, as well as any dents or dings. Next, I gave all of the cabinet boxes a light sanding to rough up the old finish and prep for paint. When it is time to choose your paint, simply take your Front + Center samples to your local paint store (I chose Sherwin Williams) and ask for a cabinet-grade paint. This will help to achieve a higher level of durability which is essential in a kitchen or bathroom! Trust me, it is worth the price!

My cabinet refacing supplies arrived just in time and they were packaged beautifully! Each door and drawer face is also coated with a clear plastic film, which allows for added protection during the installation process. We opted for a 1/2 inch overlay, which is highly recommended for DIY applications. This gave us a clean, modern look, without as much room for error as the full overlay option. When purchasing hinges, we chose the 1/2 overlay hinges with a soft close option. All you need is a rubber mallet to knock the hinges in place and a drill to install them on your boxes.

The final step was to add decorative hardware and remove the clear protective film from each door and drawer face! I used the Kreg Cabinet Hardware Jig to get the placement just right.

Final thoughts and pricing: I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect when we started this process. I have seen professionally refaced kitchens and I couldn’t imagine that mine would look just as good for less than 1/3 of the price. That’s right, 1/4 of the price! My 19 cabinet doors and 10 drawer fronts came to a grand total of $3100 INCLUDING tax and freight. The kitchen has been done for almost a month now and we are blown away by the quality and durability of the doors and drawer fronts. The entire process was seamless and the DIY install couldn’t have been easier. Our dream kitchen is a reality and we owe that to Front + Center!”

Front + Center wants to help the world elevate their living spaces with high-end cabinet refacing products. If you are looking into a new renovation or design project, give us a call or contact us and we can help you get all the information you may need to feel comfortable tackling your project.

Lake and Lumber
To check out the full article on her website click here.
Melissa’s Website