Kitchen: Updating Old Cabinets
Updating Old Cabinets
Many older houses have original kitchen cabinets made out of solid wood, very durable and fitting existing space perfectly. They may look little worn out and need some refreshing. It can be done in several ways changing significantly overall kitchen appearance. Here are some popular options:
● Repainting is probably most economical choice. In order to do it properly it require some preparation of surfaces in form of sanding, patching holes ( if any ), removing/reinstalling hardware, cleaning etc.
● Refinishing means removing old layers of paint or varnish to original wood and apply new finish as desired. Removal part can be done mechanically simply by sanding down the surface or chemically using appropriate paint/varnish removal. Both methods are time consuming and require patience and focus on details.
Kitchen cabinet refinishing and repainting are definitely “DO IT YOURSELF” projects.
● Refacing is little more complicated. The whole method is about keeping existing cabinet boxes and replacing everything which is visible : doors, drawer faces, front frame, side panels, crown moldings etc. This option gives the owner choice of wood, style of doors ( plane or raised panel ) and specific finish.
● Replacing hardware. Visible hardware: door hinges, knobs, handles can be easily replace provided they fit existing notches and pre-drilled holes. They are available in variety of finishes : chrome, satin nickel, antique brass, polished brass, white, black etc.
All those methods are very cost efficient compared to cabinets replacement. Kitchen layout will not change, countertop and backsplash remind the same and plumbing fixtures and appliances are not affected.
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