Refinishing kitchen cabinets is an easier and more affordable alternative to having to reface them. If your cabinets are just beginning to show their age and haven't sustained any real damage, then refinishing them could just be the solution you need. It is also a good way to give your kitchen a whole new look without having to break the bank to get it done: most refinishing jobs only cost a few hundred dollars.

The first step to refinishing kitchen cabinets is taking them off the hinges. This is most likely the most simple step in the whole process, but it is almost impossible to get it done with them still hanging up. This is due to the fact that you could accidentally cause some damage to other parts of the cabinets, and it is uneasy to refinish them without staining the countertops with the varnish.

After you have taken the doors down it is time to sand them. This can be done with sanding paper or a sanding block, but it is simplest with an electric sander. Preferably sanding should be done with fine-grit paper to ensure the smoothest results possible, but if there are several layers of paint already already applied you may need to go with a higher grain. Ensure to keep on safety goggles and a mask during this part because of the possibility of getting wood chips in your eyes or mouth, which is dangerous. You are attempting to get rid of the previous finish, so it could be time consuming.

After getting everything sanded, the step after in refinishing kitchen cabinets is painting them. You could use either finisher or paint, depending on your choice. If you are using paint, be sure to apply a coat of primer before to make sure that no previous damage or stains are visible the paint. Also make sure to use oil-based paint instead of latex, as oil-based paints tend to dry harder and will be better to the touch overall.

After you have done all of the above and hung the cabinet doors back on their hinges, you are finally done with the refinishing process. While it is a little harder than having to completely reface them, the lower price is worth it in many cases. The effort and time you need to completely and successfully refinish your cabinets can be quite exhaustive, but being able to look at your kitchen and see it look brand new without having to spend over $800 is a great feeling. Refinishing kitchen cabinets may be an overall more laborious route, but it is the most rewarding once it is all done.

Giving your kitchen a whole new look is a labor-intensive and strenuous. Going ahead and refinishing kitchen cabinets instead of refacing them is one of the most difficult parts, but it is far more affordable than refacing them.