Do’s and Don’ts of Kitchen Cabinet Refacing vs Full Replacement
Save or replace? Making the Right Cabinet Call in 2025
When planning a kitchen upgrade, most Burnaby homeowners ask the same question: Should I reface or fully replace my kitchen cabinets?
It’s a big decision, and it depends on your space, budget, and future. In 2025, options for kitchen cabinet refinishers in Burnaby are better than ever, but sometimes, starting fresh with custom cabinets in Burnaby is the smarter move.
In this blog, you’ll learn exactly when to choose refacing, when to consider full cabinet replacement, and the cost comparisons based on current Burnaby market data.
Do: Consider Refacing if Your Cabinets Are Structurally Sound
Refacing means keeping your current cabinet boxes (the inner structure) but replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and adding a new finish (paint, veneer, or laminate). It’s ideal if:
- Your cabinet layout already works
- Boxes are made of plywood or solid wood and are in good condition
- You want a faster, budget-friendly update
- You’re happy with the storage capacity
2025 Cost of Refacing in Burnaby:
According to Homestar’s, cabinet refacing in Burnaby now costs between $5,000–$12,000, depending on materials and kitchen size. It’s about 40–60% cheaper than a full replacement.
Pro tip: For a modern look, go for matte finishes or wood-grain laminates—both are trendy in 2025 and lower maintenance.
Don’t Reface if You’re Changing the Layout or Adding Storage
Refacing can’t fix functionality. If your current cabinets don’t offer enough storage, are poorly placed, or are too old to support modern features like soft-close drawers or pull-outs, refacing will only give you a surface-level facelift.
In that case, a full replacement with custom cabinets in Burnaby is a better investment.
Refacing also doesn’t work well if the cabinet boxes are made of particleboard or damaged wood—they’ll eventually break down, costing more in the long run.
Do: Choose Full Replacement for Long-Term Value
If your goal is a complete transformation—think updated storage, increased property value, and improved use of space—then full cabinet replacement is the way to go. Especially if your kitchen is 15+ years old or hasn’t been touched since the early 2000s.
Today’s kitchen remodelers in Burnaby offer designs tailored to both big and small kitchens. They build custom storage, vertical solutions, built-in organizers, and modern cabinet features.
In fact, most new Burnaby homes and remodels in 2025 are opting for:
- Floor-to-ceiling pantry cabinets
- Open shelving + closed storage combos
- Deep drawers over narrow cupboards
- Handleless, soft-close cabinet designs
2025 Cost of Cabinet Replacement in Burnaby:
Expect to spend between $17,000 and $35,000, depending on your kitchen’s size, materials, and features. This includes design, removal, building, and professional installation by kitchen cabinet experts in Burnaby.
While it’s more expensive than refacing, full replacement often comes with warranties of 5–10 years, especially when you go through reputable names like Cabinets R Us.
Don’t Ignore the Hidden Costs of Poor Refacing
A common mistake? Hiring low-budget refinishers who cut corners. Bad paint jobs, cheap veneers, or incorrect installations can peel, chip, or warp within a year.
Here’s what else to avoid:
- DIY jobs without experience (causes surface damage)
- Skipping warranty coverage
- Choosing short-term fixes over long-term needs
Burnaby homeowners in 2025 are becoming more practical—many choose partial replacements (like new upper cabinets only) or combine refacing with strategic cabinet add-ons for better balance.
Which Option Saves More in the Long Run?
Refacing
- Cost (mid-size kitchen): $6,500 – $9,000
- Timeline: 3–5 days
- Warranty (avg.): 1–3 years
- Layout changes possible: No
- Increases home value: Low – Moderate
- Works for small kitchens: Yes
Full Replacement
- Cost (mid-size kitchen): $18,000 – $30,000
- Timeline: 2–4 weeks
- Warranty (avg.): 5–10 years
- Layout changes possible: Yes
- Increases home value: High
- Works for small kitchens: Yes
Final Word: Ask These 3 Questions Before You Choose
- Is my cabinet structure strong enough to support new doors?
- Do I want a simple refresh or a full redesign?
- Am I staying in this home for 3+ years?
If your answer leans toward long-term value and better space use, full replacement makes more sense. If you’re prepping a home for sale or just want a fresh look on a budget, refacing is smart.
Whichever route you choose, make sure to talk to local kitchen remodelers in Burnaby who understand 2025 trends and pricing.
Where Cabinets R Us Fits In?
As one of the top-rated names in kitchen & cabinets in Burnaby, Cabinets R Us offers both expert kitchen cabinet refinishers in Burnaby and complete replacement solutions.
Here’s what they provide:
- In-home consultations with honest estimates
- 5-year warranty for full replacement jobs
- Affordable cabinet refacing packages
- 2025-inspired materials and designs
- Custom solutions for both small and large kitchens
Whether you want to save with smart refacing or go big with a custom cabinet transformation, Cabinets R Us is here to help you do it right.
