Cabinet Painting vs. Cabinet Refacing: Which One Is Right for You?

Thinking about giving your kitchen or bathroom a fresh new look? Cabinets often take up the most visual space in these rooms—and updating them can completely transform your space. But the big question is: Should you paint your cabinets or reface them?



At Guevara Painting & Cleaning Services, we help homeowners across Austin, TX choose the best, most cost-effective solution for their home updates. In this post, we’ll break down the key differences between cabinet painting and cabinet refacing, and help you decide which is right for your goals and budget.

What Is Cabinet Painting?

Cabinet painting is the process of professionally sanding, prepping, priming, and painting your existing cabinet doors and frames. It’s not just a quick DIY coat—it’s a detailed process that gives old cabinets a fresh, like-new finish in any color or style you want.

✅Pros of Cabinet Painting:

• Much more affordable than replacing or refacing
• Wide variety of color choices and finishes
• Faster turnaround (usually 2–4 days)
• No need to remove your existing cabinetry
• Great for solid wood cabinets in good structural condition

❌Consider If:

• Your cabinet material is laminate or damaged particleboard
• You want to change the layout or hardware configuration

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors and drawer fronts entirely while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. New veneers are added to the frames to match the doors, and new hardware is often installed.

✅Pros of Cabinet Refacing:

• Keeps existing cabinet layout while upgrading the exterior
• Offers a more dramatic change in door style
• Still less expensive than full cabinet replacement
• Great for homeowners who want a more modern or custom look

❌ Consider If:

• You’re working with a tight budget
• Your cabinets are already in great condition and just need a facelift

If your cabinets are structurally sound, solid wood, and you’re happy with the layout, cabinet painting is often the smartest and most affordable way to make a big impact. Refacing is ideal if you want to change the door design or if your current cabinet fronts are too worn for paint.