Laminate Cabinet Refacing Do Yourself: My Personal Experience
Have you ever looked at your kitchen cabinets and wished they looked brand new again? That’s exactly how I felt a few months ago. I didn’t want to spend thousands of dollars on new cabinets, but I also didn’t want to live with the old, worn-out look any longer. That’s when I stumbled upon the idea of laminate cabinet refacing.
What is Laminate Cabinet Refacing?
Laminate cabinet refacing is a process where a thin layer of laminate is applied to the surface of your existing cabinets. This can be a cost-effective way to give your cabinets a fresh, new look without having to replace them entirely.
Step-by-Step Guide for Laminate Cabinet Refacing
Here are the steps I followed to reface my own kitchen cabinets:
- Remove all cabinet doors and hardware.
- Clean cabinet surfaces with a degreaser and sand them lightly to create a rough surface for the laminate to adhere to.
- Cut the laminate to size, leaving a little bit of extra on each side to trim later.
- Apply contact cement to both the cabinet surface and the back of the laminate.
- Once the contact cement has dried, carefully align the laminate with the cabinet surface and use a roller to press it down and remove any air bubbles.
- Trim the excess laminate using a router and sand the edges until they are smooth.
- Reattach the cabinet doors and hardware.
Top 10 Tips and Ideas for Laminate Cabinet Refacing
If you’re considering laminate cabinet refacing, here are some tips and ideas to keep in mind:
- Choose a laminate that matches or complements your existing kitchen decor.
- Consider adding new hardware to complete the updated look.
- If you have any damaged or warped cabinets, you may need to replace those before refacing.
- Don’t forget to clean and prep your cabinets thoroughly before starting the refacing process.
- Practice applying the laminate on a small surface before tackling your cabinets.
- Invest in a good-quality router for trimming the excess laminate.
- Consider adding new trim or molding to further update the look of your cabinets.
- Be patient and take your time to ensure a smooth and even application of the laminate.
- Consult with a professional if you’re unsure about the process or have any questions.
- Enjoy your “new” cabinets and the money you saved by refacing instead of replacing!
Pros and Cons of Laminate Cabinet Refacing
Like any home improvement project, there are both pros and cons to laminate cabinet refacing. Here are a few to consider:
Pros:
- Cost-effective compared to replacing cabinets entirely.
- Can be completed in a relatively short amount of time.
- Allows for customization with different laminate patterns and colors.
- Less waste compared to replacing cabinets entirely.
Cons:
- May not be suitable for cabinets that are severely damaged or warped.
- Requires careful attention to detail to ensure a smooth and even application of the laminate.
- May not increase the value of your home as much as completely replacing cabinets would.
My Personal Review and Suggestion
Overall, I’m extremely happy with the results of my laminate cabinet refacing project. My kitchen looks brand new, and I saved a lot of money compared to completely replacing the cabinets. However, I will say that the process can be a bit time-consuming and requires attention to detail. If you’re not comfortable with DIY projects or don’t have the time to devote to this project, it may be best to consult with a professional.
Question & Answer and FAQs
Q: How long does laminate cabinet refacing last?
A: With proper care and maintenance, laminate cabinet refacing can last for many years. However, it’s important to keep in mind that the laminate can become damaged over time and may need to be replaced eventually.
Q: Can I paint over laminate cabinet refacing?
A: Yes, you can paint over laminate cabinet refacing. However, you’ll need to first sand the surface of the laminate to create a rough surface for the paint to adhere to.
Q: How much does it cost to reface cabinets with laminate?
A: The cost of laminate cabinet refacing can vary depending on the size of your kitchen and the type of laminate you choose. However, it’s typically much less expensive than completely replacing your cabinets.