The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where we cook, gather, and create memories. But let’s face it, kitchens can get a little … dated.

Especially the cabinets. They take up a lot of visual space, so when they’re tired-looking, it can drag down the entire room.

So, what do you do when your cabinets are screaming for an update? It’s time to make a decision: between painting cabinets vs replacing them, what should you choose?

While both options do have their upsides, the best choice for you depends on several factors like the state your cabinets are in, both visually and functionally. But before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, here’s what a refresh can do for you.

One of the biggest advantages of a refresh is the increase in property value. Studies show that painting the inside and outside of your home can increase its value by a whopping $4000! That’s a 107% ROI for sprucing up your interior—not bad, right? Not to mention how a fresh coat of paint can create a modern feel and add a pop of personality to your space.

Now, onto the big question, painting cabinets vs replacing them: which is the best way to go?

Is painting your cabinets the best choice?

It’s time for the exciting stuff! Painting your kitchen cabinets is a great way to create a dramatic change in the look and feel of your kitchen. For one, it is much more cost-effective than completely replacing them (we’ll go into more detail later), and you get to choose from a variety of colors and styles to make sure your kitchen looks exactly the way you want it to.

Painting your cabinets is a great way to give your space a splash of color while also retaining its original character.

But hold your horses, before you go grab a brush and start splashing color everywhere; there are a few things you need to consider.

1. Cabinet Material

Not all materials will look the same or retain paint color the same way. While painting works great for wood or wood-composite cabinets, it might not work for laminate or thermofoil cabinets. Make sure the paint you choose works well with the cabinet material. A professional painter can help you pick the right paint for your needs.

2. Cabinet Condition

While painting is a great way to give your cabinets an all-new look, if they are warped, water-damaged, or have major cracks, painting them won’t help much.

Now, this might all seem like a ton of work, and it’s natural to feel a bit out of your depth when trying to choose. In that case, don’t be afraid to choose a professional painter. In fact, 41% of people agree that it’s best to entrust the task of painting their homes to professionals rather than trying to DIY it. Professional painters can assess your cabinet condition and recommend paints that will work well with them, and ensure a flawless finish.

Is replacing your cabinets better?

While painting is a great way to get your cabinets looking as good as new, there are situations where you might have to replace them altogether. If all else fails, this might be the route you have to take.

Here are some situations where you might want to consider replacing your cabinets:

1. Falling Apart

Let’s face it, no matter how dearly you care for your cabinets, they will reach the end of their lifespan eventually. If your cabinets are giving you trouble constantly, it might be time to go for a replacement.

2. Not Functioning Properly

If your cabinets have an awkward layout or the drawers and shelves are just not cutting it anymore for what you need, replacing them can help you create a more user-friendly and functional space.

3. Planning a Transformation

If you’re considering a complete kitchen overhaul, where the entire look and feel of your kitchen is going to change, keeping the same cabinets is probably not the best idea. Replacing your cabinets is a surefire way to give a completely new feeling to your kitchen.

While all this may sound well and good, there are some key factors that you should consider before going all out with a complete cabinet replacement. The first one, obviously, is the cost. Replacing your cabinets is going to cost significantly more than a paint job, so only go for it if you really, really, (really) need it. You should also choose high-quality materials that complement your home’s style. While this means they’ll last longer and add value to your property, it also means the costs are going to stack up.

That’s not all, the replacement process is going to affect your daily routine as well; you will have to live with a less-than-ideal kitchen for a while until the renovations are done.

Painting cabinets vs replacing them: What should you choose?

Short answer, painting. Long answer; well, let’s break it down.

In most cases, painting your cabinets would be the smarter choice. Here’s why:

• It’s more budget-friendly and gives you almost the same returns as a replacement, as long as they are structurally sound
• Painting, especially with the help of a professional painter, is a quick and easy process. This means you won’t have to sacrifice your daily routine while your kitchen is being renovated
• There’s a wide variety of colors and finishes to choose from, giving you ample choice to create the ideal look for your kitchen, whether it’s classic or contemporary

Now, we all know that cost is a big consideration when it comes to any home improvement decision. So, let’s take a look at how painting stacks up with replacement when it comes to your cabinets.

In general, painting will cost between $30 and $60 per linear square foot of cabinetry. So, for example, the painting cost for a kitchen with 20 linear feet of cabinets would be between $600 and $1,200.

Replacing cabinets can range from $110 to a staggering $1230 per linear foot, depending on the quality and customization. Stock cabinets fall between $110 and $330, while custom ones can set you back $470 to a cool $1,230.

However, you should also keep in mind additional considerations like the overall condition of your kitchen and cabinets, the level of transformation you are looking for, and how important functionality upgrades are for you, to make the best decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are some commonly asked questions to consider:

1. Can I paint my cabinets myself?

Painting cabinets can be a DIY project, but achieving a professional finish requires careful preparation, the right tools, and proper technique. Consider hiring a professional painter for a flawless outcome.

2. How long will painted cabinets last?

High-quality paint and proper application can extend the life of your cabinets for many years. A professional paint job can last up to 8 years.

3. What are some trendy cabinet colors for painting?

Trends come and go but classic neutrals like white and gray are always popular choices. Bold colors like blues and reds or two-tone combinations are also trendy options you can go for.

4. Should I consult with a professional before making a decision?

Absolutely! Painters can offer valuable insights based on your specific cabinets, budget, and desired outcome. Consulting professionals can help you make an informed decision and ensure a successful project.

Make an informed decision between painting cabinets vs replacing them

And that’s it. If your cabinets are structurally sound and you’re happy with the layout, painting is the best way to go. Only opt for replacements if your cabinets have major functionality issues or you crave a complete transformation.

No matter which path you choose, a refreshed kitchen can help you enjoy the space all the more—and remember, if your choice is to paint, a professional painter offering interior painting services can give your cabinets a beautiful, long-lasting finish that you’ll love for years to come.

So, are you ready to fall in love with your kitchen all over again?