Give Your Kitchen a Makeover By Replacing Cabinet Fronts Only

If your kitchen is looking tired but you don't have the budget for a full remodel, replacing just the cabinet fronts can give you an affordable mini makeover. By switching out the existing cabinet doors and drawer fronts for brand new ones, you can transform the whole look of your kitchen in a fraction of the time and cost.

Replacing cabinet fronts allows you to upgrade the style and finish of your cabinets without tearing them out. The structural boxes can remain intact, saving you from a lengthy demolition process. Because it's less labor intensive, new fronts can be installed over the course of a weekend instead of living through weeks or months of kitchen renovation chaos.

Assess Your Existing Cabinets

Before committing to new fronts, examine the current state of your cabinet boxes. Are the cabinets structurally sound without any signs of damage, rot, or infestation? Do all doors and drawers still operate properly? Identifying issues ahead of time allows you to repair or replace components as needed.

Also look at the layout and configuration. Does it still meet your storage needs and workflow? If not, this project offers a chance to rework the layout before installing the new fronts.

Remove Cabinet Doors and Fronts

Detaching the old fronts takes patience and care to avoid damaging components for reuse. Remove doors by slowly prying each hinge from the frame, using screwdrivers and hammer if needed. Label each door and hinge plate so you can reattach in the same places later.

For drawers, you may need to use a saw to separate decorative fronts from the functional boxes they are attached to. Again, properly label them.

Measure Carefully for the New Pieces

Accurate measurements ensure your new fronts will fit correctly within the openings. Use a tape measure to capture the height, width, and depth of each individual door and drawer front, noting any obstructions from handles or indentations.

Remember to account for slight clearance differences between old and new fronts. A 1/4 inch gap allows space for operating doors and drawers smoothly.

Purchase Replacement Cabinet Fronts

For the most cohesive finished product, have new solid wood fronts custom built to your exact specifications by a cabinet maker. This avoids issues like mismatched grains or tones with the cabinet boxes.

But stock and RTA (ready-to-assemble) fronts offer more budget friendly options with wider style and color availability. Just be meticulous when measuring to achieve the best possible fit.

Prep the Cabinet Boxes

While waiting for new fronts to arrive, repair any lingering damage on existing cabinet boxes and sand surfaces to improve adhesion. Fill gaps around edges with wood filler for a seamless transition between boxes and fronts.

Clean boxes thoroughly and coat with primer for the most durable finish that looks cohesive with your choice of paint or stain.

Install New Cabinet Fronts

When fronts are delivered, organize all materials and tools needed for installation. Adjust hinges by pushing plates into place or drilling new holes. Test fit each piece before permanently securing with screws to ensure proper alignment.

Don't forget to install any new handles or knobs you've selected. Repeat steps for all doors and drawers until your fresh new cabinet fronts are hung.

The final step is applying a durable finish that gives your mismatched components a unified look. Use properly prep steps, primer, and topcoat paint for a smooth and consistent finish. Or consider stain and sealer to accentuate the wood grain of solid fronts.

Let pieces fully dry between finish coats for maximum durability. Avoid cleaning or hard use for several weeks to allow finish to continue curing and strengthening its protective bond.

You can complete a kitchen mini makeover for a fraction of the price of a full replacement. Just switch out those fronts and see your dated kitchen transformed with modern style!