The Greater Sacramento Ca. guide to Cabinet Refacing vs. Replacement: Which Is Right for You?

September 8, 2025

If you’ve been living with the same kitchen for 20 years or more, chances are you’ve wondered: should we reface our cabinets or replace them altogether? Both options can dramatically improve your kitchen’s look and function. The best choice depends on your goals, budget, and how your kitchen is currently built.

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing is often called a “mini kitchen remodel.” Instead of tearing out your cabinet boxes, we update the outside of your cabinets. This includes:

• Installing brand new cabinet doors and drawer fronts in the style of your choice
• Applying matching veneer, laminate, or real wood to the existing boxes
• Adding upgrades such as soft-close drawers, roll-out shelves, or pull-out pantries
• Our “mini kitchen remodel” often includes countertop replacement with engineered quartz or natural stone countertops and a new timeless backsplash

The result? Your kitchen looks brand new—without the cost or time of a full remodel.

What Is Cabinet Replacement?

Cabinet replacement means removing your existing cabinets and starting fresh with new, custom-built cabinetry. At Kitchen Mart, our in-house craftsmen design and build cabinets from solid plywood boxes with your choice of hardwood doors—maple, walnut, cherry, oak, and more.

With replacement, you can:

• Completely change your kitchen layout
• Add or remove cabinets to improve storage
• Choose from face frame, frameless, or inset construction styles
• Incorporate custom features designed just for your home

Replacement gives you total design freedom.

Why Choose Refacing?

Refacing is ideal if:

• You like your current kitchen layout
• Your existing cabinet boxes are solid and in good condition
• You want to save time and money compared to replacement
• You’re looking for a green solution that reduces waste

Most refacing projects are completed in just a few days, with less mess and disruption.

Why Choose Replacement?

Replacement is the right option if:

• You want to reconfigure your kitchen’s footprint
• Your cabinet boxes are damaged or poorly built
• You’d like features not possible with existing cabinets
• You want a one-of-a-kind design made just for your home

Replacement requires more time and investment, but the payoff is unmatched in terms of flexibility and function.

Which Option Is Right for You?

Both cabinet refacing and cabinet replacement can transform your kitchen. The choice comes down to your current cabinets, your design goals, and your budget. Many Sacramento homeowners choose refacing for its speed and value, while others opt for custom cabinetry when they’re ready for a complete transformation.

At Kitchen Mart, every project—whether it’s refacing or replacement—is completed by our own in-house craftsmen. With no subcontractors, you get peace of mind knowing your remodel is in expert hands from start to finish.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Whether you’re considering a “mini remodel” with cabinet refacing or a complete custom cabinetry transformation, Kitchen Mart has been helping homeowners for nearly 50 years. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy the beauty and functionality of your new kitchen for decades to come.

Cabinet Refacing vs. Cabinet Replacement: 

Kitchen Mart Difference

At Kitchen Mart, we do more than just upgrade cabinets—we bring quality, craftsmanship, and smart storage solutions to every kitchen we transform.

With hundreds of door styles to choose from and hardwood, dovetail drawers as our standard, we ensure durability and beauty in every detail. Our full-extension drawers and best-in-class soft-close guides provide smooth, effortless functionality.

We help maximize your space with pull-out trash and recycle stations, Lazy Susans for blind corners, tray dividers, and other smart storage solutions. Plus, our full-overlay refacing options and ability to match new cabinetry seamlessly create a cohesive, high-end look. With real wood, veneer, and custom color choices, we make it easy to achieve the kitchen of your dreams.

Final Thoughts

Both cabinet refacing and custom cabinetry have their advantages, and the best choice depends on your budget, goals, and your kitchen’s current condition. Whether you opt for a budget-friendly refresh or a high-end transformation, upgrading your cabinets is a fantastic way to enhance your kitchen’s beauty and functionality.

Need help deciding? Schedule your free in-home consultation today and one of our expert designers or come visit our Sacramento or Rocklin showrooms.