Cabinet Refinishing San Jose CA is a cost-effective way to refresh your cabinets. It is also faster and less disruptive than a full replacement.
However, there are a few things that can increase the overall cost of your project. These mistakes can cause problems with the final result, resulting in expensive repairs or replacements down the road.
1. Not Getting Multiple Estimates
When choosing a contractor for cabinet refinishing or replacement, it’s crucial to get multiple estimates. Prices can vary significantly, especially between locations and contractors with varying experience and skill sets. By gathering quotes, you can find the best value and ensure that your project stays within budget.
In addition to getting a few estimates, it’s also important to check references and reviews before hiring a contractor for any home improvement project. Doing so can help you avoid a bad experience and find someone who will be able to complete your job at a high standard. If possible, try to speak with previous clients about their experiences with the contractor and how well they communicated throughout the project.
Another way to find the right contractor is to search online for local professionals. Sites like Angi (formerly Angie’s List) and Nextdoor often feature listings for skilled tradespeople, as well as local home improvement contractors. Additionally, Facebook Marketplace and local Facebook groups are often used by skilled individuals or small businesses to promote their services, and can be a great resource for finding people who specialize in refinishing and other home improvement projects.
If you’re considering a full kitchen remodel, it’s also worth researching cabinet installation costs. Installing new cabinets can be more expensive than refacing or refinishing because it involves the removal and disposal of existing cabinets as well as installing the new ones. However, it may be the best option if your cabinets are beyond saving through refacing or refinishing, or if you want to make a major change in the layout of your kitchen.
Depending on the materials you choose, cabinet refacing can cost anywhere from $4,300 to $10,000. While it’s more expensive than refinishing, it can offer better durability and a longer-term aesthetic than a simple paint job. In addition, refacing can save you money on remodeling costs by keeping the original cabinet boxes and replacing only the doors and drawer fronts. This can also reduce the need for additional repairs and renovations, such as drywall, flooring, electrical, plumbing, and painting.
2. Not Getting the Right Materials
When it comes to your kitchen, you don’t want to cut corners on a renovation. But, you also don’t want to overspend. Choosing the right materials is key. For example, the cabinets you choose are an important investment, and should provide years of service and value. But, not all cabinet manufacturers are created equal.
While it is tempting to purchase the lowest cost options available, this can be a costly mistake in the long run. Be sure to thoroughly research the different products and brands, paying particular attention to their construction methods and quality control standards. Read reviews, check Better Business Bureau ratings and ask for references. Also, avoid buying “stock” or “ready-to-assemble” (RTA) cabinets from unnamed suppliers without a track record.
It is also crucial to get the right materials when refinishing your cabinets. Using the wrong stain or paint can make your new finish peel or chip prematurely. In addition, the wrong cleaning and maintenance routines can degrade the quality of your cabinet refinishing job over time.
If you wander paint aisles, it’s easy to be misled by the claims on the label. Many people think they can refinish their cabinets with just paint and nothing else, but this is a big mistake. First, you need to prep the surface properly, removing all hardware and carefully sanding everything. Then, you need to prime to ensure the surface is ready for painting and to cover any damage or discoloration. Finally, you must give the paint enough time to dry before applying additional coats.
Refinishing is a much less disruptive and costly option than full replacement, and it can yield a significantly higher ROI. If you take the time to work with a skilled professional and use the best possible materials, it is possible to transform your kitchen into one that will serve your family well for years to come. By sidestepping these common cabinet mistakes, you can create a beautiful space where meals are enjoyed and memories are made.
3. Not Getting the Right Contractor
When it comes to cabinet painting, there are many things that can go wrong if the right steps aren’t taken. That’s why it is important to find a company that specializes in this type of project. It’s also a good idea to ask the company how they prepare their surfaces before painting. You want to make sure they are sanding down any rough areas and completely cleaning the cabinets before painting. This will help ensure a smooth and professional finish.
If the cabinet refinishing is done incorrectly, it can lead to problems like peeling and chipping. This is usually due to the old paint layer not adhering well to the new coats of paint. Other issues that can arise from improper preparation include a sticky or tacky finish, visible brush strokes, and drips. All of these issues can be avoided by hiring a company that takes the time to prepare the surface properly before painting.
In addition to proper prep work, it is also important to make sure that the company is using quality materials. Cheaper materials will often cost more in the long run because they won’t hold up as well. It is also a good idea to check the company’s licenses and insurance before hiring them.
Another mistake that can be costly is replacing the cabinet hardware before refinishing. This can be a huge mistake because it can ruin the look of your entire kitchen. It is also important to consider whether or not the cabinet refinishing is worth it. If the cabinets are in bad shape structurally or need a different layout, it may be more beneficial to replace them altogether. By following these tips, you can avoid some of the most common mistakes that can increase your cabinet refinishing cost.
4. Not Getting the Right Installation
Whether you are getting your cabinets refaced, repainted, or refinished, it’s important to have the right installation. This includes everything from careful measurements to proper surface prep. It is also crucial to have open lines of communication with your contractor and to be sure that all parties are on the same page. Failure to do so can lead to costly mistakes that you may not be able to fix.
Cabinet refacing is a great option for homeowners looking to make major changes in their kitchens without the expense of a complete remodel. However, it is not a perfect solution for everyone and there are some situations where complete cabinet replacement is the best choice. For example, if your existing cabinets are damaged beyond repair or have structural issues, refacing will not solve these problems.
Also, refacing can be difficult if you have custom cabinets or a unique layout. Finally, refacing won’t solve stains or other cosmetic issues that are better addressed with painting or refinishing.
Refinishing is a popular option for many homeowners because it is less expensive than a full replacement and it can be completed in a shorter amount of time. It is also a good option if you have cabinets that are in fairly decent condition but have minor scratches or blemishes.
While refinishing is less expensive than a complete replacement, it is still not an easy DIY project. It requires a lot of time and patience. It is important to properly prepare the cabinets for refinishing to ensure that the finish will adhere well. This includes removing all grease and oil, as well as cleaning the cabinets thoroughly. Additionally, it is important to allow enough time for the cabinets to dry after refinishing.
When it comes to remodeling your home, there are a number of mistakes that can be easily avoided with the right planning and preparation. Making the right choices can save you a lot of money and headaches. By carefully evaluating your options, choosing the right materials and contractors, and creating a budget with contingencies, you can avoid costly mistakes that will increase your cabinet refinishing cost.
