How Long Does Cabinet Refacing Last?

December 15, 2024

Cabinet refacing has grown in popularity in recent years as a way for homeowners to update the appearance of their kitchen or bathroom cabinets without the cost and hassle of renovation. Because refacing is fast and affordable, a frequently asked question is, how long does cabinet refacing last? It's a good question, and the answer depends on many factors, such as materials used, the quality of the workmanship, and how well the cabinets are maintained over time. Here we'll look at these factors to help you understand what to expect from refaced cabinets.


If you're not familiar with refacing, it involves replacing your existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts and covering the frames with a veneer or laminate, then installing new doors and drawer fronts to give your cabinets an updated look while keeping the original structure intact. This is ideal if your existing cabinets are in good shape and provide the functionality you need and all you want to do is change their appearance. Refaced cabinets can last as long as new cabinets (15 to 20 years or more), depending on the factors we've already mentioned.

First, the materials used play a significant role in the durability of refaced cabinets. The veneer or laminate applied to the cabinet frames can vary widely in quality. Quality wood veneers offer a classic appearance and can last for decades if properly sealed and maintained. Laminate is less expensive and durable but can be susceptible to chipping or peeling if not installed correctly. The hardware used for the refaced cabinets, such as hinges and drawer pulls, can also impact longevity. It's important to use well-made hardware to ensure the cabinets function smoothly over time and are capable of handling sustained daily use.

Another crucial factor is the quality and workmanship of the installation. A skilled professional can make sure the veneer or laminate adheres seamlessly to the cabinet surfaces with no gaps or bubbles, which could lead to wear and tear and less life expectancy. Properly aligned doors and drawers are also necessary for aesthetics and functionality. That's why choosing the right refacing company is so important. Cutting corners during installation, whether by using subpar adhesives or rushing the process, significantly shortens the lifespan of refaced cabinets.


As we mentioned, the environment where the cabinets are located can affect their longevity. Kitchens and bathrooms are high-moisture areas, which can cause materials to deteriorate more quickly if not designed to withstand such conditions. Inferior wood veneers may warp or swell if exposed to excessive humidity without proper sealing, so laminate options may work best in damp environments. Homeowners can reduce these risks by taking steps to control moisture levels by using fans and quickly addressing any water spills or leaks is essential.

That brings us to proper maintenance, which is a great way to help extend the life of your refaced cabinets. Regular cleaning with non-abrasive cleaners can prevent dirt buildup that might damage surfaces over time. Avoiding abrasive sponges and harsh chemicals is a must because they can damage the veneer or laminate. Keep an eye out for signs of wear, such as peeling edges or loose hardware, and address these issues quickly to prevent further damage.


A simple, every day way to extend the life of your refaced cabinets is to be careful about how they are used. Overloading drawers or cabinet shelving can add strain, potentially causing damage to both the cabinet frames and the refaced surfaces. Ensuring cabinets aren't under any undue stress will help them remain in good condition for years.

When comparing cabinet refacing to a full replacement, some consumers may believe that new cabinets are worth the expense because they will last longer. While it's true that custom-built cabinets constructed from solid wood or premium materials can last 30 years or more, it doesn't mean that refacing is an inferior option. For many homeowners, cabinet refacing is a good balance between affordability and longevity, especially when existing cabinets are in good shape. It's also important to note that even with new cabinets, the factors we've discussed regarding the lifespan of your refaced cabinets still apply.

One more thing to consider is aesthetics. While refaced cabinets can last structurally as long as new cabinets, design trends evolve over time. What looks great today might feel outdated in a decade. This means you're likely to want to change the appearance of your cabinets before they wear out, and refacing cabinets lets you do this without committing to the higher cost of replacement, making it a better value for homeowners in the long run.


To sum it up, cabinet refacing is a great value for homeowners who want long-lasting cabinets without spending the money or time required for a full remodel. By using a professional cabinet reface installer you can trust, choosing quality materials, and exercising regular maintenance, you can expect to get at least 15 to 20 years or more.

Cabinet Refacing You Can Count On
Cabinet Reface Direct is a nationally recognized cabinet refacing and manufacturing company that offers residential and commercial cabinet refacing services. We provide full-service cabinet refacing solutions that include free estimates, a wide choice of design options, and quick, clean installation at an affordable price.

As manufacturer and installer, we oversee every aspect of the process, allowing us to provide our customers with the highest-quality cabinet refacing available. We're so confident in our work that we offer a guarantee on everything we do.

We offer customers a range of cabinet styles, including shaker, slab, and raised panels in various textures and colors, making it easy to customize your space. We carry a selection of handles, knobs, Dovetail drawer boxes, soft-close hinges, soft-close drawer slides, drawer fronts, and other cabinet components to ensure you always have options.

Because we believe everyone should be able to have the cabinets of their dreams, we even offer to finance with interest rates as low as 0% and $99 monthly.

The quality of our materials, our strong commitment to the best craftsmanship, and the attention to detail we put into our installation ensures you'll get the most from your cabinets for decades.

If you're ready to upgrade your cabinets, call Cabinet Reface Direct at 877-673-3223 or fill out our contact form to schedule a FREE consultation and quote with a Cabinet Reface Direct designer today.