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Kitchen Remodel
Cabinet Refacing vs Replacing: 2026 Cost Comparison
Refacing saves 40–60% — here's when it's worth it and when new cabinets are the right call.
BuildMate Editorial Updated March 2026 6 min read
The numbers
A typical 10x10 kitchen: new stock cabinets $6,000–$10,000, semi-custom $12,000–$22,000, custom $22,000–$40,000. Refacing (new doors, drawer fronts, veneer on boxes) runs $4,500–$9,500.
Reface when
- Boxes are solid plywood/particleboard in good shape
- Layout works — you're not moving cabinets
- You want a fresh look on a 3–5 year timeline before selling
Replace when
- Boxes are damaged, warped, or MDF that's swelling
- You want to change layout, add drawers, or upgrade to soft-close
- The home is a long-term hold and you want 25+ year cabinets