The cabinets are one of the focal points of your kitchen. Unfortunately, years of use, accumulation of cooking grease, fingerprints, and regular use can take a toll on your kitchen cabinets, making them look shabby and undermining the overall look of your kitchen. Cabinet refacing is an option some people look at to save a few dollars.
However, some old cabinets just can’t be refaced, and you’ll need to replace them. But how do you tell that it’s time for cabinet replacement? Here are some critical signs to look out for:
Poor Overall Function
One of the major reasons to consider cabinet replacement over refacing or repair is when your cabinets’ overall function doesn’t work for you. Here are some common functionality issues that would make you want to replace cabinets:
- Accessing the cabinets is challenging, often requiring you to remove some items to reach others at the back.
- The cabinets open up incorrectly. For example, two cabinet doors may slam into each other if you open them simultaneously.
- The drawers get stuck and make irritating sounds when being opened.
Severely Damaged Cabinet Structure
If your cabinet frame is water damaged, covered with mold, or rotted, repairing it may not fix the problem, and you’ll need to replace the entire cabinet. Damage by pests and pets can also make the cabinet structure irreparable.
If your cabinet structure is damaged beyond repair for whatever reason, it is not advisable to reface the cabinet. You might want to consult a professional remodeling company to help you determine if your cabinets need replacement.
Worn Out Cabinet Box
If your cabinet box is so worn that you cannot re-drill new holes or install new hinges, the cabinet box structure is not solid enough to support new cabinet doors. If you cannot work with the existing wood, then you need to replace the entire box.
Otherwise, you will end up wasting money on frequent repairs. Ensure the wood can support new drillings and hinges before investing in new cabinet doors or refinishing your old doors.
You’re Changing the Entire Kitchen Layout
Cabinet refacing or repair usually works for kitchens that are keeping the same layout. If you plan to change your entire kitchen layout, or you want to move the kitchen to a completely different location in the house, you’ll need to invest in new custom cabinets. The chances are that you will not achieve the desired look and functionality if you try to integrate your old cabinets into the new kitchen layout.
It is always advisable to work with experienced professionals when it comes to kitchen cabinet replacement. A kitchen design professional will evaluate your needs and provide cabinets that suit your taste and budget.
If you are ready to replace your old kitchen cabinets, you won’t regret it when you hire Kitchen Design Solutions, for the project. We are a premier kitchen design and remodeling company in Savannah, GA, as well as Bluffton, Hilton Head and Beaufort, SC, ready to transform your kitchen with new custom cabinets. Contact us today to talk with our kitchen planners about your kitchen cabinet needs.
