How much does cabinet refacing cost in Chicago?

Cabinet refacing in Chicago costs $8,000-$20,000 for most kitchens depending on size and materials. Small kitchens (10-12 cabinets) run $8,000-$12,000. Medium kitchens (13-18 cabinets) cost $11,000-$16,000. Large kitchens (19-25 cabinets) range $14,000-$20,000. This includes new doors, drawer fronts, veneer for box exteriors, new hardware, and installation. Premium options with specialty finishes or features reach $18,000-$25,000. Additional costs include soft-close upgrades ($400-$800), interior painting ($800-$1,500), roll-out shelves ($150-$300 each), and unexpected issues like countertop removal ($800-$1,500). Refacing saves 40-60% versus cabinet replacement which costs $15,000-$45,000 for similar kitchens.

Is it better to reface or replace kitchen cabinets?

Choose refacing if your cabinet boxes are solid wood or plywood, structurally sound, and the layout works well - saves $7,000-$25,000 while transforming appearance. Choose replacement if boxes are particleboard or damaged, layout is dysfunctional, or you need different storage configurations. Refacing works best for: 1980s-2000s quality cabinets in dated finishes, budgets under $18,000, quick timelines (3-7 days vs 4-6 weeks), and keeping existing countertops. Replacement wins when: cabinets are water-damaged or cheaply constructed, workflow frustrates you daily, storage is insufficient, or you're doing full kitchen remodel anyway. Both deliver 65-75% ROI in Chicago when matched correctly to situation. The expensive mistake is choosing wrong approach - refacing cheap particleboard wastes money, replacing quality solid wood overspends unnecessarily.

What is the downside of refacing cabinets?

Cabinet refacing limitations include: cannot change layout or add cabinets (same footprint), won't fix structural problems or water damage, quality depends entirely on existing box construction, visible seams where veneer meets, lifespan limited to remaining box life (15-20 years typical), and hidden costs emerge if counters must be removed or backsplash interferes. Refacing also can't upgrade interior organization without additional cost, may show imperfections if boxes aren't perfectly square, and won't increase storage capacity or reconfigure workspace. Biggest downside is wasting money refacing cheap particleboard boxes that won't last another decade - better to replace entirely. Refacing works brilliantly on quality 1980s-2000s solid wood construction but fails on damaged or low-quality original boxes. Also can't solve fundamental layout problems like terrible work triangle or insufficient counter space.

How long does cabinet refacing last?

Cabinet refacing lasts 15-20 years when done on quality solid wood or plywood boxes that are structurally sound. The new doors, drawer fronts, and veneer hold up excellently - the lifespan limitation is the existing cabinet boxes underneath. If original boxes were built with quality materials in the 1980s-2000s, refacing extends useful life by 15-20 years. If boxes are already 30+ years old or were cheap particleboard construction originally, refacing may only last 8-12 years before boxes fail. Compare to full cabinet replacement lasting 25-30 years with semi-custom quality or 30-40 years with custom cabinets. Key factors affecting refacing longevity: original box quality and age, presence of water damage, structural soundness, and installation quality of refacing work. Best longevity comes from refacing solid 1980s-1990s cabinets that have 15-20+ years of life remaining in the boxes.

Can all cabinets be refaced?

No, not all cabinets should be refaced. Good refacing candidates have: solid wood or plywood box construction, structural integrity with no water damage or warping, level and square boxes, functional layout you want to keep, and sufficient remaining lifespan (15-20+ years). Poor refacing candidates include: particleboard or MDF boxes (common 1990s-2000s builder-grade), water-damaged or warped cabinets near sinks, structurally compromised boxes with failing joints, severely outdated layouts that waste space, cabinets with wrong heights or depths, and boxes already 40+ years old even if solid wood. Chicago's vintage homes often have 1960s-1970s cabinets too small for modern use - these need replacement not refacing. Thermofoil or laminate cabinets can technically be refaced but rarely make financial sense. Get professional inspection before deciding - contractor should honestly assess whether boxes justify refacing investment or replacement makes more sense.

Does cabinet refacing include new hardware?

Yes, professional cabinet refacing includes new hardware - hinges, drawer slides, pulls, and knobs are standard. New European-style hinges ($3-8 each) ensure doors hang properly and close smoothly. Soft-close hinges cost extra ($400-$800 upgrade for full kitchen). Drawer slides are typically included with drawer front replacement - soft-close slides may cost extra ($600-$1,200). Decorative hardware (pulls and knobs) ranges from included basic options to premium upgrades ($500-$2,000 depending on style and quality). Total hardware typically represents $800-$1,500 of refacing cost for standard options. Avoid contractors who reuse old hardware - 20+ year old hinges and slides will fail soon, ruining your new doors. Quality refacing jobs replace all functional hardware to ensure everything works properly for the next 15-20 years.

How much does it cost to replace kitchen cabinets in Chicago?

Cabinet replacement in Chicago costs $15,000-$45,000 for most kitchens. Small kitchens (10-12 cabinets) run $15,000-$22,000. Medium kitchens (13-18 cabinets) cost $20,000-$32,000. Large kitchens (19-25 cabinets) range $28,000-$45,000 for semi-custom quality. This includes cabinets, demolition, installation, basic hardware, and soft-close upgrades. Stock cabinets cost 30% less but lower quality. Custom cabinets cost 40-60% more ($35,000-$75,000). Hidden costs add $5,000-$12,000: countertop removal/reinstall ($1,500-$3,000), plumbing ($800-$1,500), electrical updates ($1,000-$2,500), drywall repair ($1,200-$2,500), flooring fixes ($800-$1,500), backsplash replacement ($2,000-$5,000). Total typical project: $22,000-$55,000. Timeline 4-6 weeks with kitchen unusable 2-3 weeks. ROI 70-75% in Chicago market.

What is cheaper: refacing or replacing cabinets?

Cabinet refacing is significantly cheaper, costing 40-60% less than replacement. Refacing costs $8,000-$20,000 versus replacement at $15,000-$45,000 for typical Chicago kitchens - savings of $7,000-$25,000. Small kitchen comparison: refacing $8,000-$12,000 vs replacement $15,000-$22,000 (save $7,000-$10,000). Medium kitchen: refacing $11,000-$16,000 vs replacement $20,000-$32,000 (save $9,000-$16,000). Large kitchen: refacing $14,000-$20,000 vs replacement $28,000-$45,000 (save $14,000-$25,000). However, cheaper doesn't mean better value. Refacing on quality solid wood boxes delivers excellent ROI. Refacing cheap particleboard boxes wastes money - better to spend more on replacement that lasts 25-30 years. Factor in hidden replacement costs (demolition, plumbing, electrical, drywall) that add $5,000-$12,000, making actual gap even larger.

Cabinet Refacing vs Replacement Chicago

Reface vs Replace: Chicago Reality 2025

Cabinet refacing costs $8,000-$18,000 in Chicago versus $15,000-$45,000 for full replacement - saving 40-60% while transforming your kitchen's appearance. Refacing works when cabinet boxes are solid and the layout functions well, replacing only doors, drawer fronts, and veneer. Full replacement makes sense when boxes are damaged, you need layout changes, or cabinets are low-quality particleboard. The decision isn't just about cost - it's about whether your existing cabinet structure is worth keeping for another 15-20 years. Wrong choice wastes money either way.

You're staring at oak cabinets from 1995 thinking they look dated but wondering if you really need to rip everything out. The boxes seem solid. The layout actually works. But those honey oak doors and that builder-grade style? They're killing your kitchen's vibe and probably your home's resale value too.

This is the exact moment when Chicago homeowners either make a smart $10,000 decision that transforms their kitchen, or waste money on the wrong approach. After completing 200+ cabinet projects across Chicago - split almost evenly between refacing and replacement - Assembly Squad has seen both brilliant choices and expensive mistakes.

The frustrating part? Most contractors push whatever service they specialize in rather than what's actually right for your kitchen. Cabinet refacing companies claim everything can be refaced. Cabinet dealers insist you need all new boxes. Neither tells you the truth: it depends entirely on your specific situation.

This guide breaks down real Chicago pricing for both options, explains exactly when each approach makes financial sense, reveals hidden costs that change the math, and shows you how to avoid the expensive mistakes we see homeowners make constantly.

Cabinet Project ROI in Chicago

65-75% Return

Professional refacing: 65-70% ROI
Quality replacement: 70-75% ROI
Average value increase: $12,000-$18,000

The Real Cost Comparison: Chicago Pricing 2025

Here's what Chicago homeowners actually paid in 2024-2025 for both approaches:

Project Scope	Refacing Cost	Replacement Cost	Savings	Timeline
Small Kitchen (10-12 cabinets)	$8,000-$12,000	$15,000-$22,000	$7,000-$10,000	3-5 days vs 2-3 weeks
Medium Kitchen (13-18 cabinets)	$11,000-$16,000	$20,000-$32,000	$9,000-$16,000	4-6 days vs 3-4 weeks
Large Kitchen (19-25 cabinets)	$14,000-$20,000	$28,000-$45,000	$14,000-$25,000	5-7 days vs 4-6 weeks
Budget Refacing	$6,000-$9,000	N/A	vs painting $3,500-$6,000	3-4 days
Premium Options	$18,000-$25,000	$35,000-$55,000	$17,000-$30,000	6-8 days vs 6-8 weeks

Important context: Refacing prices include new doors, drawer fronts, veneer for cabinet boxes, new hardware, and labor. Replacement prices are for semi-custom quality cabinets installed, not cheap stock or ultra-premium custom.

What Is Cabinet Refacing? (And What It's Not)

Let's clear up the confusion because contractors throw around terms loosely:

True Cabinet Refacing Includes:

New doors and drawer fronts: Completely replaced with your choice of style, wood species, and finish
Box veneer/laminate: Visible cabinet box surfaces get matching material applied over existing finish
New hardware: Fresh hinges, drawer slides, pulls, and knobs throughout
Interior updates optional: Can paint or line interiors, install roll-outs, add organizers
Same footprint: Cabinet boxes stay in place, no layout changes, existing countertops remain
Structural integrity: Requires solid, level, undamaged cabinet boxes worth preserving

Timeline: 3-7 days total. Kitchen usable evenings. Minimal dust and disruption compared to replacement.

What Refacing Is NOT:

Not painting: Painting costs $3,500-$8,000, keeps existing door style, just changes color
Not door replacement only: Real refacing includes veneering box exteriors for cohesive look
Not a layout solution: Can't move cabinets, add islands, reconfigure workspace
Not a fix for damaged boxes: Won't solve water damage, structural issues, or failing construction
Not cheaper than it seems: Hidden costs (countertop removal, plumbing, electrical) add $2,000-$5,000

When Refacing Makes Perfect Sense in Chicago

✅ Ideal Refacing Candidates

Solid wood or plywood boxes: Built pre-1990s with quality construction that'll last another 20+ years
Functional layout: You like where everything is - sink, stove, fridge triangle works well
Level and square cabinets: Doors hung properly, no sagging shelves, boxes structurally sound
Good storage configuration: Right mix of drawers, cabinets, shelving for your needs
Dated style, not damaged structure: Ugly doors but solid bones - perfect refacing scenario
Budget constraints: Want transformation but can't afford $30,000-$45,000 for replacement
Keeping countertops: Granite or quartz you love stays in place - major cost savings
Quick timeline needed: Can't live through 4-6 week full renovation with family at home

Chicago sweet spot: 1980s-2000s homes with oak or maple cabinets in outdated finishes. Boxes are overbuilt quality from that era.

When Replacement Is the Only Smart Choice

❌ Situations Where Refacing Wastes Money

Particleboard or MDF boxes: Common in 1990s-2000s builder-grade kitchens - won't last another 15 years
Water damaged cabinets: Warped, swollen, or delaminating boxes near sinks or dishwashers
Layout you hate: Wasted space, poor workflow, sink in wrong location - refacing doesn't fix this
Insufficient storage: Need more cabinets, deeper drawers, different configurations than you have
Structural problems: Cabinets pulling from walls, sagging shelves, broken frame joints
Wrong cabinet heights: Non-standard dimensions, too low for comfort, ceiling gap wasting space
Outdated interior organization: Fixed shelves when you need roll-outs, no soft-close, cheap hardware
Replacing countertops anyway: If counters are coming out, replacement cost gap narrows to $8,000-$12,000
Planning to sell within 3-5 years: Cheap refacing on cheap boxes hurts more than helps resale

Chicago reality: Many vintage bungalows and two-flats have 1960s-70s cabinets that are too small, poorly configured, and past their useful life.

The Complete Cost Breakdown: What You're Actually Paying For

Cabinet Refacing Includes

New doors (all styles): $3,500-$8,000
New drawer fronts: $1,200-$2,500
Box veneer/laminate: $2,000-$4,000
New hinges & hardware: $800-$1,500
Labor & installation: $1,500-$3,000
Design consultation: $200-$500
Base Total: $9,200-$19,500

Additional Refacing Costs

Soft-close hinges upgrade: +$400-$800
Premium drawer slides: +$600-$1,200
Interior painting/lining: +$800-$1,500
Roll-out shelf installation: +$150-$300 each
Crown molding addition: +$800-$1,500
Under-cabinet lighting: +$400-$1,000
Typical Add-ons: $2,000-$4,000

Cabinet Replacement Includes

Semi-custom cabinets: $12,000-$25,000
Demolition & disposal: $1,500-$3,000
Installation labor: $3,000-$6,000
Hardware (pulls/knobs): $500-$1,500
Soft-close upgrades: Usually included
Design & planning: $500-$1,000
Base Total: $17,500-$36,500

Hidden Replacement Costs

Countertop removal/reinstall: $1,500-$3,000
Plumbing reconnection: $800-$1,500
Electrical updates: $1,000-$2,500
Drywall repair/painting: $1,200-$2,500
Flooring repair/transition: $800-$1,500
Backsplash replacement: $2,000-$5,000
Typical Extras: $5,000-$12,000

The Refacing Process: What Actually Happens

Complete Refacing Timeline in Chicago Homes

Week 1-2: Consultation, measurements, material selection (door style, wood, finish, hardware)
Week 3-4: Door fabrication period while you use kitchen normally
Day 1 (Installation): Remove old doors/drawer fronts, clean boxes, apply veneer to visible surfaces
Day 2-3: Install new doors with hinges, attach drawer fronts, add crown molding if included
Day 4: Install hardware (pulls/knobs), final adjustments, quality check
Day 5 (if needed): Touch-ups, interior work, organize and clean

Kitchen disruption: Can cook on stovetop evenings, fridge and sink remain functional, dishwasher accessible except installation days. Total down time: 3-7 days versus 4-6 weeks for replacement.

The Replacement Process: What Actually Happens

Complete Replacement Timeline in Chicago Homes

Week 1-3: Design phase, cabinet selection, measurements, finalize layout and specifications
Week 4-7: Cabinet fabrication (semi-custom takes 4-6 weeks, custom 8-12 weeks)
Days 1-2: Complete demolition, remove cabinets/countertops, disconnect plumbing/electrical
Days 3-5: Address surprises (drywall damage, plumbing issues, electrical updates)
Days 6-8: Install base cabinets, level and secure, install wall cabinets
Days 9-10: Countertop template, plumbing/electrical rough-in completion
Days 11-13: Countertop installation, backsplash, final plumbing/electrical connections
Days 14-15: Hardware, doors adjusted, final details, punch list, cleanup

Kitchen disruption: No cooking for 2-3 weeks. Microwave/toaster oven in dining room. Heavy dust despite containment. Family stress high. Need temporary kitchen setup and patience.

Hidden Costs That Change the Math

⚠️ Refacing Costs They Don't Mention Upfront

Countertop issues: Removing counters to veneer under them: $800-$1,500 removal/reinstall
Backsplash damage: Veneer may not go behind backsplash, leaving visible gap: $300-$800 repair
Appliance removal: Built-in microwave, range hood removal for access: $400-$800
Plumbing interference: Supply lines, dishwasher connections block veneer application: $300-$600
Electrical outlets: Need to extend outlets through new veneer thickness: $200-$500
End panel issues: Exposed cabinet sides may need custom panels: $400-$800 each
Hardware holes don't match: New pulls in different location require filling old holes: $300-$600
Discovered box damage: Hidden problems appear once doors removed: $500-$2,000 repairs

⚠️ Replacement Costs They Don't Mention Upfront

Wall damage discovery: Drywall damage behind old cabinets: $1,200-$2,500 repair/paint
Flooring gaps: Floor different under cabinets, visible gaps: $1,500-$3,000 to fix
Plumbing not to code: Shutoffs missing, pipes wrong location: $800-$2,000 updates
Electrical insufficient: Need more circuits for modern appliances: $1,200-$2,500
Structural surprises: Wall not strong enough, needs reinforcement: $800-$2,000
Permit requirements: Chicago permits for significant work: $500-$1,000
HVAC interference: Ductwork blocks new cabinet placement: $800-$1,500 to reroute
Appliance incompatibility: Openings different sizes, need new appliances: $2,000-$8,000

ROI Analysis: Which Delivers Better Value?

Factor	Refacing	Replacement	Winner
Upfront Cost	$8,000-$20,000	$15,000-$45,000	Refacing by $7,000-$25,000
ROI Percentage	65-70%	70-75%	Replacement by 5%
Dollar Value Added	$10,000-$14,000	$12,000-$20,000	Replacement by $2,000-$6,000
Timeline	3-7 days	4-6 weeks	Refacing by 3-5 weeks
Longevity	15-20 years	25-30 years	Replacement by 10 years
Disruption Level	Low - kitchen usable	High - no kitchen 2-3 weeks	Refacing significantly
Layout Flexibility	None - same footprint	Complete redesign possible	Replacement
Resale Appeal	Good if quality boxes	Excellent - all new	Replacement

Neighborhood-Specific Considerations Across Chicago

Lincoln Park & Lakeview - Buyer Sophistication High

Market Expectation: Quality matters more than new

Refacing works if: Original cabinets are quality wood construction, layout is functional, finishes are high-end
Replacement needed if: Dated configurations, low-quality original boxes, or buyers expect "fully renovated"
ROI reality: Quality refacing ($15,000-$20,000) can match returns of mid-grade replacement ($25,000-$35,000)
What sells: Sophisticated finishes, modern hardware, quality construction - age matters less than execution
Average cabinet investment: $18,000-$35,000 for competitive listings

Wicker Park, Logan Square & Bucktown - Character Over Perfection

Market Expectation: Style and function, budget-conscious buyers

Refacing works if: Keeps character of vintage home, updates style, maintains good bones of solid construction
Replacement needed if: Layout is terrible, storage insufficient, or original cabinets are builder-grade junk
ROI reality: Smart refacing ($12,000-$16,000) often outperforms basic replacement ($20,000-$28,000)
What sells: Functional kitchens with personality - buyers DIY-savvy and less demanding than Lincoln Park
Average cabinet investment: $12,000-$25,000 for market-appropriate updates

North Side Bungalow Belt - Practical Value Focus

Market Expectation: Updated but not overbuilt for neighborhood

Refacing works if: Original 1920s-1940s cabinets are solid wood and worth preserving the character
Replacement needed if: Tiny 1920s cabinets too small for modern use, need better storage and layout
ROI reality: Over-improving with $35,000+ cabinets doesn't return investment - $15,000-$25,000 is sweet spot
What sells: Clean, functional, updated appearance - buyers want turnkey but not luxury finishes
Average cabinet investment: $10,000-$22,000 matches neighborhood expectations

Making the Decision: Your Personal Framework

Choose Refacing If...

Cabinet boxes are solid wood or quality plywood AND structurally sound
Layout works well for your cooking/storage needs
Budget is $8,000-$18,000 rather than $20,000-$40,000
You're staying in home 3-7+ years and just need updated appearance
Timeline matters - need kitchen functional quickly
Keeping existing countertops and appliances
Dated style is the problem, not function or structure
Vintage home where cabinet footprint matches architecture

Best ROI scenario: 1980s-2000s solid wood cabinets in wrong finish/style but right function. $12,000 refacing delivers $8,000-$10,000 value increase.

Choose Replacement If...

Cabinet boxes are particleboard, damaged, or structurally compromised
Layout wastes space or creates terrible workflow
Need more/different storage than current configuration provides
Planning full kitchen remodel with new counters, backsplash, flooring
Selling within 2-3 years and need "fully renovated" appeal
Cabinet heights wrong, depths inadequate, or configurations outdated
Budget supports $20,000-$40,000 investment for 25-30 year solution
Want modern features (soft-close, roll-outs, better organization) throughout

Best ROI scenario: Replacing terrible 1960s-90s particleboard with quality semi-custom. $28,000 investment delivers $18,000-$22,000 value increase.

The Third Option: Hybrid Approach

Smart Chicago homeowners increasingly choose a hybrid that nobody mentions:

Strategic Partial Replacement + Refacing

Cost: $14,000-$26,000 | Best of Both Worlds

Replace problem areas: New base cabinets where you need better drawers, pull-outs, organization
Reface wall cabinets: Upper boxes typically in better shape, doors are what you see anyway
Add island: New island with seating while keeping perimeter cabinets
Reconfigure workspace: Replace sink base and adjacent cabinets to improve workflow
Total cost: 30-40% less than full replacement, achieves 80% of the functional improvement

When this works: Some cabinets worth keeping, others need replacement. Requires skilled contractor who does both rather than specialist pushing one approach.

Chicago Cabinet Refacing & Replacement Projects

See real before-and-after transformations showing both approaches

Common Mistakes Chicago Homeowners Make

Refacing Mistakes

Refacing cheap particleboard boxes - wastes money on structure that won't last
Choosing refacing when they hate the layout - cosmetics can't fix function
Hiring cheap refacer who does poor veneer job - shows every flaw
Not upgrading hardware - old hinges/slides ruin new doors
Skipping interior work - new exterior, gross interior looks cheap
Expecting perfection - refacing has limitations, not like brand new

Replacement Mistakes

Replacing perfectly good boxes for purely cosmetic reasons - overspending
Buying cheapest stock cabinets - worse than quality refacing
Not budgeting for hidden costs - project goes $8K-$12K over
Underestimating disruption - family stress destroys relationships
Over-improving for neighborhood - $45K cabinets in $300K home
Ignoring lead times - living without kitchen 8+ weeks on custom

Questions to Ask Before Deciding

Critical Assessment Questions

How old are your cabinets? Pre-1990s solid wood worth refacing. 1990s-2000s particleboard usually isn't.
What's the construction material? Plywood/solid wood = reface candidate. Particleboard/MDF = replace.
Is the layout functional? If you're constantly frustrated with workflow, refacing won't help.
Any water damage or structural issues? These disqualify refacing immediately.
How long are you staying? Less than 5 years = reface. 10+ years = replacement might be worth it.
What's your total budget? Under $15K realistically = refacing. Over $25K = replacement is option.
Are you changing counters? If yes, replacement cost gap narrows significantly.
Can you live through renovation? Young kids, work from home, health issues = refacing's quick timeline wins.
What do similar neighborhood homes have? Match market expectations for best ROI.

Final Thoughts: Making the Smart Choice for Your Chicago Kitchen

The refacing versus replacement decision isn't about which option is better - it's about which option is right for your specific cabinets, your budget, your timeline, and your goals. We've seen $15,000 refacing jobs that transformed kitchens better than $35,000 replacement disasters, and vice versa.

The key is honest assessment. Don't let a refacing specialist convince you that cheap 1990s particleboard boxes are worth keeping. Don't let a cabinet dealer scare you into replacing perfectly good 1980s solid oak construction just because the style is dated. Either waste of money creates regret.

Start with your cabinet boxes. Are they solid wood or plywood? Structurally sound? Level and square? If yes, refacing saves you $10,000-$25,000 while delivering 80% of the visual impact of replacement. If your boxes are damaged, low-quality particleboard, or the layout frustrates you daily, spending more for replacement gives you a kitchen that actually solves your problems rather than just looking different.

In Chicago's competitive real estate market, both approaches deliver solid ROI when done right. The expensive mistake isn't choosing refacing over replacement or vice versa - it's choosing the wrong approach for your specific situation because you didn't understand what you were actually getting.

Ready to figure out which approach makes sense for your Chicago kitchen? Contact Assembly Squad for an honest assessment. We do both refacing and replacement, so we have zero incentive to push you toward either option. We'll inspect your cabinets, discuss your goals and budget, and tell you which approach actually makes financial sense - even if it's painting, the hybrid approach, or doing nothing for now. Let's make sure you spend your money wisely.

Reface vs Replace Kitchen Cabinets: Chicago Cost Analysis 2025