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What’s the Difference Between Cabinet Refacing and Refinishing in Beaverton, OR?

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When it comes to giving your kitchen or bathroom a fresh new look, cabinets usually take center stage. They not only define the style of the room but also impact functionality and overall value. Homeowners in Beaverton, OR often find themselves stuck between two popular upgrade choices: cabinet refacing and cabinet refinishing.

While the two terms sound similar, they are actually very different processes with unique benefits, costs, and outcomes. If you’re planning a cabinet makeover and wondering which option is best for your home, this detailed guide will explain everything you need to know.

What Is Cabinet Refacing in Beaverton, OR?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing the visible surfaces of your cabinets while keeping the existing structure (or “boxes”) intact. Think of it as giving your cabinets a new skin.

Here’s what typically happens in a refacing project:

  • The old cabinet doors and drawer fronts are removed.

  • New doors, drawer fronts, and veneers are installed to cover the cabinet frames.

  • Fresh hardware (like handles, pulls, or knobs) is added for a modern finish.

Refacing is essentially a cosmetic makeover that transforms the look of your cabinets without replacing the entire unit.

What Is Cabinet Refinishing in Beaverton, OR?

Cabinet refinishing, on the other hand, is the process of updating your cabinets by sanding down the existing finish and applying a new one. Instead of replacing parts, you work with what you already have.

Typical refinishing steps include:

  • Cleaning and prepping cabinet surfaces.

  • Sanding down the old paint or stain.

  • Applying a new paint color, stain, or protective finish.

  • Optionally updating hardware to match the new look.

Refinishing focuses more on reviving your current cabinets rather than changing them completely.

The Key Differences Between Refacing and Refinishing

Although both options are designed to refresh the look of your cabinets, there are some major differences every Beaverton homeowner should understand before choosing.

Feature Cabinet Refacing Cabinet Refinishing
Process Replace doors, drawer fronts, and cover cabinet boxes with veneer Sand and apply new paint/stain to existing surfaces
Scope Cosmetic upgrade with new materials Cosmetic restoration of current materials
Durability Longer-lasting due to new surfaces Depends on condition of old cabinets
Style Options Wide range of materials, colors, and designs Limited to current cabinet style but customizable with paint/stain
Timeline 3–5 days for average kitchen 2–4 days for average kitchen
Cost Higher investment, but still cheaper than full replacement More budget-friendly
Best For Outdated cabinets with good structure Cabinets in good condition that only need a new look

When to Choose Cabinet Refacing in Beaverton, OR

Cabinet refacing is ideal if:

  • Your cabinet boxes are still solid and functional.

  • You want a completely new style (shaker, raised panel, flat-front, etc.).

  • You’re tired of outdated materials and want something modern.

  • You want to improve durability with brand-new surfaces.

  • You’re preparing to sell your home and need a major style upgrade.

Refacing gives you the flexibility to change the entire look of your kitchen or bathroom without the cost of a full remodel.

When to Choose Cabinet Refinishing in Beaverton, OR

Cabinet refinishing makes sense if:

  • Your cabinets are structurally sound but look worn or faded.

  • You like the current cabinet style but just want a fresh finish.

  • You’re on a tighter budget.

  • You want to update the color to match a new décor theme.

  • You’re looking for a quicker, less disruptive process.

Refinishing is best for homeowners who love their cabinet design but want them to look newer and more polished.

Cost Comparison in Beaverton, OR

One of the biggest deciding factors between the two is cost.

  • Cabinet Refacing in Beaverton, OR:
    Prices usually range from $4,000 to $10,000+ depending on the size of the kitchen, the materials chosen, and any additional hardware upgrades.

  • Cabinet Refinishing in Beaverton, OR:
    Refinishing typically costs $2,000 to $6,000 depending on whether you choose paint or stain and how much prep work is needed.

Both are far less expensive than full cabinet replacement, which can cost $15,000–$25,000 or more for a medium-sized kitchen.

Durability and Longevity

  • Refacing: Since new doors, drawers, and veneers are installed, you essentially have “new” cabinets on the outside. With proper care, refaced cabinets can last 15–20 years.

  • Refinishing: The durability depends on the quality of the original materials and the refinishing job. On average, refinished cabinets can last 7–10 years before another refresh might be needed.

Eco-Friendly Options

Both processes are environmentally friendly compared to full replacement, but they differ slightly:

  • Refacing: Reuses the cabinet box, reducing waste, but requires new doors and veneers.

  • Refinishing: Uses existing materials, making it the most eco-friendly option.

For Beaverton homeowners who value sustainability, refinishing is usually the greener choice.

Style and Design Flexibility

  • Refacing offers more flexibility because you can change cabinet door styles, choose from a variety of veneers (wood, laminate, thermofoil), and update hardware. It’s almost like getting brand-new cabinets.

  • Refinishing limits you to your current cabinet door style. However, with creative paint or stain choices, you can still dramatically transform the look.

Which Option Adds More Value in Beaverton, OR?

Both refacing and refinishing increase home appeal, but refacing often provides a higher return on investment (ROI) because it delivers a bigger visual transformation. If you’re selling your Beaverton home soon, buyers are more likely to notice new cabinet doors than a new paint finish.

That said, refinishing still adds value, especially if the goal is to update an outdated color or refresh worn surfaces before listing your home.

Choosing the Right Service in Beaverton, OR

When deciding between cabinet refacing and refinishing, ask yourself these key questions:

  1. Are my cabinets still structurally sound?

  2. Do I want a brand-new look or just a refreshed version of what I already have?

  3. How much am I willing to spend?

  4. Am I planning to sell my home soon or keep it long-term?

  5. Do I want the most eco-friendly solution?

By evaluating your needs, budget, and long-term goals, you can confidently choose the best option for your home.

Final Thoughts

Cabinet refacing and refinishing are both excellent ways to transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom without the cost of a complete remodel.

  • Refacing is the right choice if you want a brand-new style and longer-lasting upgrade while keeping costs lower than replacement.

  • Refinishing is perfect if you’re on a budget and love your current cabinet design, but want to give it a clean, fresh finish.

For homeowners in Beaverton, OR, both options provide affordable, eco-friendly ways to update your home and boost its value. The choice comes down to your design goals, budget, and how long you want the results to last.