Save Money with Cabinet Refinishing

Cabinet refinishing is a great way to save money and still have a beautiful or unique kitchen. The cost of replacing kitchen cabinets can be very high. Homeowners can easily spend several thousands of dollars on new cabinets and countertops.

The next best alternative is refinishing, if your cabinets are in good shape it can be a real money saver. Kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities can be dressed-up, all it requires is a plan, a little effort, and persistence. The steps can be applied equally well to bathroom vanities and any built in cabinetry such as bookshelves.

Many decorative effects can be achieved during any cabinet refinishing project, especially with paint. A different color on the doors or a crackle finish is just a couple of examples.

Painted cabinets can add a new look and style to an otherwise dreary kitchen or bathroom. A tough scratch resistant finish is possible, resulting in an entirely new look, done for a fraction of the cost of a new set of wood cabinets or vanities.

If you like the current look of your kitchen or bathroom the finish can be revitalized to look new again. Stained cabinets can be brought back to life with a little elbow grease, the proper materials, and some good tools. Refinishing kitchen cabinets i s one of the most popular and cost effective refinishing projects for both a homeowner and professional painter.

With the addition of new hinges, handles or knobs you can have a whole new kitchen. The money you save by doing it yourself can be applied to purchasing new counter tops or flooring to complete this new look.

Tips for refinishing cabinets

• Look in magazines and the local home improvement centers for ideas. A blueprint of ideas is needed before you start.
• Books are great for answering questions and supplying additional ideas for getting the job done right. And contacting a contractor will be able to answer all your needs and help you choose the right materials and finishes appropriate for your project.
• Kitchen cabinet refinishing can be a large project that will take time and effort. Try to set up a temporary kitchen to minimize any interference with the refinishing process.
• Clean, clean and clean some more. This is very crucial for the best results. Kitchens and bathrooms are difficult areas to keep clean. All soap and chemical residues or grease must be completely removed.
• Take everything apart that you can. Remove all hinges and handles. Remove the doors and drawer fronts for easer sanding and application of the finish.
• Drawer fronts are often secured with a few screws to the drawer box. If your fronts cannot be removed, remove all items from the drawers and plan on refinishing with the fronts attached.
• Purchase all materials before starting. This way you won't run out in the middle of something.
• Think safety first. Properly dispose of rags and cleaning chemicals. And wear the appropriate eye and lung protection.
• Be patient. This is a big job that takes time to do right. A hired contractor will be able to take the doors to their facility where they can work on them on their own time making the job go quicker and more convenient for you.