Refacing Kitchen Cabinets: Cost per Square Foot
When it's time to update your kitchen, refacing kitchen cabinets is a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to full cabinet replacement. But how much does it cost to reface kitchen cabinets per square foot? Let's delve into the details to help you budget for this transformative project.
Understanding Cabinet Refacing
Cabinet refacing involves replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts, while keeping the existing cabinet boxes. The boxes are then covered with a matching veneer or new material. This process gives your kitchen a fresh look without the high cost and waste associated with full cabinet replacement.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets
The cost of refacing kitchen cabinets per square foot varies based on several factors. Here are some key elements that influence the price:

- Size of the Kitchen: Larger kitchens require more materials and labor, increasing the overall cost.
- Material Choice: Premium materials like solid wood or high-end laminates cost more than standard options.
- Door Style and Hardware: Custom or intricate door styles and high-quality hardware can increase the cost.
- Labor Costs: Labor costs vary by location and can significantly impact the total project cost.
Average Cost of Refacing Kitchen Cabinets per Square Foot
On average, the cost to reface kitchen cabinets ranges from $100 to $300 per linear foot. To find the cost per square foot, you'll need to calculate the square footage of your cabinets. Here's a simple way to do that:
- Measure the width and height of your cabinets.
- Multiply the width by the height to get the square footage of each cabinet.
- Add up the square footage of all cabinets to get the total square footage.
- Divide the total cost of refacing by the total square footage to find the cost per square foot.
For example, if your cabinets total 100 square feet and the refacing project costs $3,000, the cost per square foot would be $30.
Comparing Cabinet Refacing with Other Options
Before making a decision, compare the cost of refacing with other kitchen cabinet options:

| Option | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Refacing | $10 - $30 |
| Staining or Painting | $5 - $15 |
| RTA (Ready-to-Assemble) Cabinets | $50 - $200 |
| Custom Cabinets | $500 - $1,200 |
Tips for Saving on Cabinet Refacing Costs
To save on cabinet refacing costs, consider the following tips:
- Choose standard door styles and hardware to reduce labor costs.
- Opt for mid-range materials to balance cost and quality.
- Do some of the work yourself, like removing old doors and hardware.
- Get quotes from multiple contractors to ensure you're getting the best price.
Refacing kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to update your kitchen's look. By understanding the cost per square foot and comparing your options, you can make an informed decision that fits your budget and style.