Refacing Plastic Laminate Kitchen Cabinets

Refacing Plastic Laminate Kitchen Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide

Kitchen cabinets play a significant role in the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your kitchen. If you have plastic laminate cabinets that are showing their age or you simply want to update your kitchen's style, refacing is an excellent option to consider. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you understand the essential aspects of refacing plastic laminate kitchen cabinets.

Benefits of Refacing Plastic Laminate Kitchen Cabinets

Refacing involves replacing the cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and hardware, while leaving the existing cabinet boxes in place. Here are some of the benefits it offers:

Cost-Effective: Refacing is significantly less expensive than replacing your entire cabinets.
Time-Saving: Refacing is a relatively quick process that can be completed in a few days.
Versatile: With a wide variety of door styles, colors, and hardware to choose from, you can customize the look of your cabinets to suit your taste.
Less Invasive: Since it doesn't require removing the existing cabinets, refacing is less disruptive to your kitchen.

Materials for Refacing Plastic Laminate Cabinets

There are several materials to choose from for refacing plastic laminate cabinets:

Veneer: Wood veneer is a thin layer of real wood that is applied over the existing laminate.
Laminate: New laminate sheets can be applied over the existing laminate for a durable and affordable option.
PVC: PVC is a waterproof and scratch-resistant material that is also easy to clean.
Solid Wood: Solid wood is a high-quality and durable option but can be more expensive.

Choosing the Right Refacing Contractor

Selecting a qualified refacing contractor is crucial to ensure the success of your project. Here are some tips:

Get Referrals: Ask friends, family, or kitchen designers for recommendations.
Check Licensing and Insurance: Make sure the contractor is licensed and has liability insurance.
Look at Past Projects: Ask for references or visit previous projects to see the quality of their work.
Get a Detailed Contract: Ensure the contract outlines the scope of work, materials used, project timeline, and warranty.

The Refacing Process

The refacing process typically includes:

Preparation: The contractor will remove the cabinet doors and drawer fronts and prepare the surfaces for the new materials.
Applying the New Material: The chosen material, whether veneer, laminate, PVC, or solid wood, will be applied over the existing laminate.
Installing Doors and Drawer Fronts: The new doors and drawer fronts will be fitted and attached to the cabinets.
Hardware Installation: The contractor will install new hardware such as knobs, handles, or pulls.

Maintenance and Care

Refaced plastic laminate cabinets are durable and easy to maintain. Here are some care tips:

Clean regularly with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
Avoid using harsh cleaners or abrasive sponges.
Wipe up spills promptly to prevent staining.
For small scratches, use a fine-grit sandpaper to gently remove them.

By following these guidelines, you can successfully reface your plastic laminate kitchen cabinets, giving your kitchen a fresh, updated look that will endure for years to come.