Is your kitchen looking tired and dated? Do the cabinets make the room seem dark and closed in? Updating your kitchen can cost tens of thousands of dollars with a full renovation. But you don’t have to undertake a major overhaul to give the space a fresh new look. Simply changing out the cabinet doors provides an affordable makeover that transforms the entire kitchen.
Replacing kitchen cabinet doors allows you to update the style and color without removing the existing cabinet boxes. With some new hardware, a coat of paint, and fresh cabinet doors, you can revive your kitchen on a budget. Read on to learn how switching the cabinetry doors can instantly modernize your kitchen’s aesthetic.
Why Replace Cabinet Doors?
Changing the cabinet doors is one of the most budget-friendly ways to renovate your kitchen. New doors can give worn, damaged, or outdated cabinets an entirely new look for a fraction of the cost of new cabinetry. Other benefits of replacing kitchen cabinet doors include:
- Cost savings compared to a full kitchen remodel. Only the visible door fronts are replaced.
- Ability to do as a DIY project. No need to hire contractors.
- Customize the style to your taste with the door design.
- Introduce color to create a fresh feel.
- Works for both frameless and framed cabinet boxes.
Replacing doors provides a “facelift” for tired kitchens. The simple update makes the space feel new and elegant without the mess and expense of a full renovation.
Planning Your Cabinet Door Replacement
The first step is assessing your existing cabinetry. Take measurements of each cabinet opening and diagram your kitchen layout. This allows you to order replacement doors suited to your existing cabinet box sizes. Consider a few factors as you plan for new doors:
Cabinet Boxes and Frames
Are the cabinet boxes and face frames in good condition? Painting or refinishing may be needed if they are very worn or damaged. New doors look best with fresh cabinet boxes.
Door Styles
Browse door options like slab, flat panel, or raised panel in various materials. Choose a style aligned with your desired kitchen aesthetic. Slab doors offer a seamless, contemporary look for example.
Door Materials
Wood, thermofoil, glass, and metal are common kitchen cabinet door material options. Consider durability – solid wood provides a premium look but requires more maintenance than laminates.
Ordering and Pricing
Once you’ve selected your preferred style and material, order replacement doors sized to fit your existing cabinet openings. Quality can impact cost, but expect to pay around 30-50% of a full kitchen remodel price.
Removing the Old Kitchen Cabinet Doors
Once your new doors arrive, it’s time to remove the outdated ones. Follow these steps:
- Detach the hinges and lift off doors and drawers.
- Remove hinge plates from cabinet frames.
- Thoroughly clean interiors and outside of cabinet boxes.
- Sand and repaint frames if needed.
Work carefully during removal to avoid damaging the cabinet box and frames. Also, number each door and take notes on your kitchen layout to ensure easy re-installation.
Installing the New Cabinet Doors
Adding the fresh new doors is the fun part! Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation. Here are some general steps to attach your new doors:
- Attach new hinges to cabinet frames per included directions.
- Insert doors and drawers, then make minor adjustments for proper alignment and closure.
- Use shims if needed to adjust door position.
- Pre-drill pilot holes for screws to prevent splitting.
- Complete final door adjustments and finish per instructions.
Take your time during installation to ensure the doors function properly. Seal, prime, and paint as the final step to finish off your kitchen’s makeover.
Frameless vs. Framed Cabinet Considerations
Does your kitchen contain frameless or framed cabinetry? This impacts the cabinet door replacement process:
Frameless Cabinets
Frameless, or European-style, cabinets have no face frame around the front. Replacing doors is simplified since the focus is just on the door itself.
Framed Cabinets
Framed cabinets have a face frame bordering the front. When changing doors on framed cabinets, you’ll likely want to refinish or replace the visible frames as well for an integrated look.
Both cabinet styles can be transformed with new doors, but framed cabinets may require a bit more work. Focus on the doors for frameless, and doors plus frames for framed cabinets.
Mistakes to Avoid with Cabinet Door Replacement
Changing cabinet doors yourself can save thousands of dollars. Avoid these common pitfalls for DIY success:
- Forcing doors that don’t fit – Precise measurements are crucial.
- Not pre-drilling pilot holes – Prevent splitting wood when attaching hinges.
- Skipping interior cabinet cleaning – New doors accentuate dirty cabinets.
- Disregarding instructions – Follow manufacturer guidelines for proper installation.
With careful planning and some DIY skills, you can change your kitchen cabinet doors. Just take your time and use good practices.
Cost Comparison to Kitchen Remodeling
What’s the cost to replace kitchen cabinet doors compared to a full remodel? Here are some averages:
- Full kitchen remodel – $15,000 to $30,000+
- Changing cabinet doors – $2,000 to $4,500
The door replacement price can vary based on factors like:
- Existing cabinet quality
- Door materials (solid wood is premium)
- Number of doors
- Custom vs. stock doors
While not cheap, new doors cost a fraction compared to complete tear-out and replacement of cabinets. An affordable kitchen upgrade!
Transforming Your Kitchen’s Look
The change can be amazing with just new cabinet doors. Here are some inspiring kitchen makeovers:
Color Makes a Splash
Introduce vibrant hues like emerald green or cobalt blue to create a colorful focal point. Crisp white doors also lend a light, airy feel.
Two-Tone Style
Pair stained wood lower cabinets with painted uppers for a striking two-toned kitchen. Classic white and dark wood is a popular combo.
Mix up Materials
Blend materials like wood doors on lower cabinets and sleek glass uppers for visual interest. Contrasting textures look fresh.
With strategic color and material selections, new cabinet doors inject major style. The variations are endless for a customized look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I replace my kitchen cabinet doors?
Remove old doors, take measurements, order new doors to size, install hinges and mount replacement doors. Make final adjustments so doors align properly.
What are the best materials for kitchen cabinet doors?
Wood, thermofoil, glass, and metal are top options. Choose based on durability needs, aesthetics, and budget.
Is changing cabinet doors a DIY project?
Yes, replacement doors can be installed by homeowners with some basic skills. Follow included directions closely.
How much does it cost to replace kitchen cabinet doors?
On average, expect to pay $2,000-$4,500. Factors like materials and custom vs. stock impact prices.
Should I reface or replace cabinet doors?
If cabinet box is in good shape, new doors through refacing is best. It’s the affordable way to refresh cabinets.
Replacing your kitchen cabinet doors provides an instant makeover at a reasonable cost. With some handy DIY skills and the right cabinet door selections, you can give your kitchen a complete transformation without removing the existing cabinetry. Just switching out those old, worn doors for fresh new ones allows you to upgrade your kitchen’s style at a fraction of the price of full cabinet replacement. With clever color choices, materials, and designs, the simple act of changing the doors creates a stunning new look.
Ready for a kitchen refresh? It’s time to stop staring at those outdated cabinets and finally swap those doors out for a modern, customized space you’ll love.
