What Is the Downside of Cabinet Refacing?

Many homeowners in Sarasota and nearby areas ask me if cabinet refacing is worth it. Refacing is a great way to refresh your kitchen or bathroom without the cost of replacing all your cabinets. But, like any project, it has its drawbacks.


Let me break it down and explain the challenges you might face.

Limited Changes

Cabinet refacing doesn’t fix layout or storage problems. If your cabinets don’t work well for you, refacing won’t help. You’re keeping the same frames, just giving them a new look.


  • Example: I had a client whose kitchen didn’t have enough storage space. They thought refacing would solve their issues. After talking it over, they decided to replace their cabinets. A new layout gave them more storage and better functionality.
an image of someone imagining a new kitchen

Not For Damaged Cabinets

Refacing will only work if your cabinet frames are in good shape. If there’s water damage, warping, or rot, refacing won’t solve those problems. Fixing or replacing damaged cabinets adds costs.


  • Pro Tip: Before refacing, check your cabinets carefully. If the structure isn’t solid, replacing your cabinets might be a better long-term choice.
refaced kitchen cabinetry

Shorter Lifespan

Refaced cabinets don’t last as long as brand-new ones. Most refaced cabinets last 10–15 years with good care. In contrast, new custom cabinets can last 20–30 years or more.



If you’re staying in your home long-term, investing in replacements might be smarter. But if you’re planning to sell in a few years, refacing can give your home a fresh look for less money.

Limited Customization

Refacing can change the look of your cabinets but not the structure. You can’t easily add features like deep drawers, pull-out shelves, or other upgrades.


  • Example: A Sarasota client wanted pull-out shelves added to their refaced cabinets. Unfortunately, their cabinet frames weren’t compatible. In the end, they chose new custom cabinets that offered all the features they wanted.
refaced kitchen cabinetry

When Refacing Works Best

Cabinet refacing is a good option if your cabinets are in good condition and you like the current layout. It’s faster and costs less than replacing your cabinets altogether. Plus, you can still choose new doors, finishes, and hardware to get a fresh style.



But, if your cabinets are damaged or you want a completely new layout, replacement might be a better option.

My Final Thoughts

I’ve worked on cabinets for many years, and I know every project is different. Refacing works well for some homeowners but not for others. The best choice depends on what your home needs.


At Sarasota’s Custom Cabinets, we offer refacing, custom cabinets, and complete replacements. If you’re unsure what’s right for you, give us a call or visit our showroom. Let’s find the best solution for your space.

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