The Average Cost to Resurface Cabinets

Considerations

• Resurfacing cabinets is time consuming. Doing it properly requires removing cabinets doors and all their parts. If you plan on using the assembly hinges and screws, put them in a safe place so they are not lost. Also select a designated area -- whether it is outside, in the garage or on a floor area, ensure the area is protected with plastic sheeting -- to clean and resurface the cabinet doors. Select two days to dedicate time to this project and ensure you have the skills and tools to disassemble and reassemble the cabinet doors.

Products and Tools

• Resurfacing cabinets requires several tools: lacquer/paint stripper, a screwdriver, a large and small putty knife, a paintbrush, fine-grade sandpaper and plastic sheeting. You can use an electric sander if one is available. Because cabinets already have a smooth surface, you will only need the fine-grade sandpaper to for corners and edges, and areas that may require basic sanding because of burns, scrapes and other damage. All of these items are available at any large general merchandise or home improvement store. The average cost is under $100, even if you require a large amount of stripper for more cabinets.

The Process

• After selecting the area you choose to resurface the cabinets, remove the cabinet doors off of the cabinets. Place the cabinet doors on the plastic sheeting. Also use plastic sheeting on the floor areas of the cabinets attached to the wall. The plastic sheeting will help protect areas because the stripper is aggressive and can remove all types of finishes. When doing the backs of the cabinets on the wall, paint the areas with the stripper a section at a time. Remove the stripper before starting another section. On the cabinet doors, paint the stripper on the door, and remove it with a putty knife after about two minutes. Use fine-grade sandpaper to remove inconsistencies on the cabinet’s services.

Additional Options

• After resurfacing the cabinets, they can be lacquered or painted. Purchasing new hardware such as hinges and handles can also and improve the appearance of the cabinets. The cost of the hinges range from approximately $5 to $20 for a package of two hinges. The price of handles, lacquer or paint varies based on texture and quality.