Remodeling your kitchen cabinets can completely change how your kitchen looks and feels even without a full renovation. Whether your cabinets are old, dull, or just not your style anymore, there are smart ways to give them new life.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to remodel kitchen cabinets, including cost, design ideas, and easy steps you can follow even if you’re on a budget.
Let’s start with the basics. Here’s a simple step-by-step plan that works for any kitchen:
Decide what you want to change the color, doors, or the entire setup.
Take measurements of your cabinets and layout.
Choose your style (modern, traditional, farmhouse, etc.).
Set a budget that covers materials, paint, and labor.
For old wooden kitchen cabinets, sanding and repainting can make them look brand new.
For laminate cabinets, go with resurfacing or applying a new veneer.
Choose durable materials like plywood or solid wood if you’re replacing parts.
Pick a finish that matches your kitchen matte, glossy, or stained.
Take off doors, drawers, and handles.
Label each piece so you can reattach them easily.
Clean all surfaces before painting or refinishing.
Fill any cracks or dents.
Sand the surface to make it smooth.
Apply primer if you’re painting.
Painting is the easiest and most affordable way to remodel.
Refacing means keeping the cabinet boxes but replacing doors and drawer fronts.
Replacing is best for severely damaged or outdated cabinets.
Install new handles, knobs, or hinges.
Add under-cabinet lighting or organizers for a modern touch.
Check that all doors and drawers open smoothly.
If you’re trying to save money, here are smart ways to remodel your kitchen cabinets without overspending:
Keep your current cabinet layout to avoid plumbing or electrical changes.
Repaint instead of replacing.
Replace only the cabinet doors for a fresh new look.
Use affordable materials like laminate or MDF.
DIY small tasks like sanding and painting and let professionals handle installation.
Update hardware (handles, knobs) for a quick facelift.
These budget-friendly steps make a big difference without breaking the bank.
The cost of remodeling kitchen cabinets depends on the size of your kitchen, material choice, and type of work.
Here’s a rough estimate:
Painting or refinishing: $300–$1,500
Refacing: $4,000–$10,000
Replacing cabinets: $8,000–$20,000+
Adding countertops and upgrades: $15,000–$30,000
If you’re hiring a kitchen remodeling service in NJ, Adan Construction offers fair, transparent pricing with high-quality materials and expert craftsmanship.
Old cabinets can look brand new with some creativity and care.
Here’s how to remodel old kitchen cabinets effectively:
Deep clean to remove grease and dirt.
Sand surfaces before painting or staining.
Replace worn handles or hinges.
Add new trim or molding for a classy touch.
Consider two-tone colors: lighter uppers and darker lowers.
If the structure is solid, there’s no need to replace everything. Small updates can make a huge difference.
Not every remodel needs a full teardown.
Here are ideas to remodel existing cabinets without replacing them:
Paint or stain for a new finish.
Add crown molding or decorative panels.
Replace only the doors and drawers.
Install glass inserts in a few doors for a modern touch.
Add interior lighting or soft-close hinges.
These small updates make your kitchen feel new while keeping costs low.
Oak cabinets are strong and long-lasting, but their old-fashioned color can date your kitchen.
Here’s how to update them:
Sand off the shiny topcoat.
Prime and paint in neutral shades like white, gray, or navy.
Swap out bulky handles for sleek modern ones.
Add open shelves for balance.
Modern colors and hardware can completely change how your oak cabinets look fresh, clean, and timeless.
Timing depends on the scope of your project:
Painting or refinishing: 3–5 days
Refacing: 1–2 weeks
Full replacement: 3–4 weeks
At Adan Construction, we plan each project carefully so there are no delays you’ll know exactly what to expect from start to finish.
Here are some creative makeover ideas for inspiration:
Paint dark cabinets white for a brighter space.
Try two-tone color combinations like blue and white.
Add open shelving for easy access and a modern touch.
Use bronze or black handles for a bold contrast.
Upgrade countertops to match your new cabinet look.
Seeing before and after kitchen cabinet makeovers will show you how a few simple changes can completely transform your kitchen.
Not cleaning or sanding properly before painting.
Using cheap paint or materials.
Ignoring leveling and spacing.
Rushing the drying process.
Forgetting to label parts during removal.
Taking your time ensures your cabinets last for years.
At Adan Construction, we specialize in kitchen remodeling services in NJ including cabinets, countertops, flooring, and lighting.
Here’s why homeowners trust us:
We work with your budget and style.
We use durable materials and detailed craftsmanship.
Our team finishes projects on time with clean, professional results.
You get honest advice and clear pricing from start to finish.
Remodeling your kitchen cabinets is one of the best ways to refresh your home without a full renovation. Whether you’re painting, refacing, or replacing you can get beautiful results with the right plan and team.
Ready to start your kitchen cabinet remodel in NJ? Contact (201) 500-5742 today for a free consultation. We’ll help you design, plan, and transform your kitchen into a space you’ll love every day.
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