What you need to know about cabinet veneer refacing

Cabinet veneer refacing is a transformative and budget-friendly approach to revitalizing your cabinetry. It allows for quick color or style changes without the hassle of full cabinet replacement or repainting work. 

But even the most avid DIYer might struggle to achieve a professional-looking finish.

In this guide, we provide valuable tips and insights to help you navigate the cabinet veneer refacing process — whether that involves doing it yourself, hiring a professional, or choosing an alternative approach. We’ll explore different veneer materials and lay out different ways you can reinvigorate your cabinetry with veneers.

What are cabinet veneers?

Cabinet veneers are thin layers of wood or other materials that you apply to the surface of cabinets as a decorative and protective covering. They are a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to refresh cabinets without fully replacing them.

There are several types of cabinet veneers available, including:

• Wood veneers: Made from real wood, veneers come in various species like oak, cherry, and maple, providing a natural and authentic appearance.
• Laminate veneers: These offer a wide range of colors and patterns, making them a versatile choice for many different decor styles.
• Thermofoil veneers: Consisting of PVC or vinyl film, thermofoil veneers provide a smooth and seamless finish. They’re highly resistant to moisture, making them ideal for kitchens.

Should I veneer my cabinets?

That depends. If you go the DIY route, cabinet veneer refacing requires a certain level of home improvement expertise to achieve a professional result. You’ll need a lot of tools to get the job done, and there’s significant room for error in the installation process — particularly if you’re veneering complex cabinet door and drawer surfaces. 

Even if you hire a professional, you still might run up against durability and material quality concerns.

Weigh the pros and cons of veneers, alternative options, and the state of your current cabinetry before you proceed. Let’s take a closer look.

Pros and cons to consider

Cabinet veneer refacing does have its advantages over alternatives like painting, refinishing, or full cabinet replacement. Among them are:

• Cost-effectiveness: Refacing is up to 50% cheaper than replacing.
• Eco-friendliness: Applying veneers produces minimal waste and requires no harsh chemicals.
• Timeliness: Veneering requires fewer and simpler steps than replacing, painting, or refinishing.
• Versatility: Veneers can mimic wood grains and textures painting couldn’t replicate.

Overall, cabinet veneers are a practical and aesthetic solution for cabinet refacing. But keep in mind the drawbacks as you decide on the best course of action for your kitchen or bathroom project. The cons of cabinet veneer refacing include:

• Durability issues: Veneers are susceptible to water damage, peeling, cracking, and chipping.
• Complex installation: There’s a lot of room for error in the installation process. Installing veneers requires a high level of precision and attention to detail — from smoothing out air pockets to ensuring proper adhesion. Missteps can shorten the life span of your cabinetry’s new look.
• Less professional appearance: Veneers simply can’t compete with the quality and look of real wood. Sometimes, it’s worth the extra expense to opt for real wood.

Assess your current cabinetry

Evaluating the condition of existing cabinets is crucial before deciding whether you’ll reface them with cabinet veneers and laminates. Here’s how to assess their condition and make an informed decision:

• Consider your current doors and drawers: Cabinet veneer refacing provides a completely new surface, but keep in mind that doors and drawers with complex detailing may not be the best fit for veneers. Veneering is most suitable for flat-profile doors and fronts, especially if you plan to install the veneers yourself.
• Examine cabinet structure: Check for structural issues like warped cabinet frames, shelves, or drawer fronts. If the cabinets are significantly damaged or unstable, a full replacement might be necessary for safety and longevity.
• Inspect cabinet boxes: Assess the integrity of your cabinet boxes. Cabinets with strong and sound structures are good candidates for refacing. If the boxes are in decent shape but have worn doors or surfaces, refacing is probably still the most cost-effective solution.
• Consider cabinet layout: Evaluate your current cabinet layout and functionality. If it meets your needs, refacing can update the look without the disruption of a full replacement. If you wish to alter the layout significantly, opting for full cabinet replacement is more practical.
• Surface condition: Inspect the surfaces of your cabinet doors and boxes. If your cabinet boxes are in good condition but have outdated or worn surfaces, you don’t need to replace them. 
• Budget and time constraints: Refacing is generally more cost-effective and less time-consuming than painting, refinishing, or cabinet replacement. This makes it a preferred choice for those with budget or schedule limitations.
• Design preferences: If you are happy with your current cabinet configuration and layout but desire a brand-new aesthetic, refacing allows for a wide range of design options without the need for extensive renovation.

Alternatives to cabinet veneer refacing

• Replace cabinet doors and drawers: If your door and drawer fronts feature complex or ornate detailing, refacing your cabinetry with new cabinet doors and drawer fronts might be the best route. 
• Paint or stain your cabinet: Painting or staining is a great option if your cabinet doors, drawers, and structure are in reasonably sound shape but you want to change up the look of your cabinetry. 
• Full cabinet replacement: Opt for full replacement when your cabinets are badly damaged, you want to alter the layout, or you have the budget and time for an extensive renovation. 

How to reface cabinets with veneers 

You’ve done your research, assessed the state of your current cabinetry, and decided veneer cabinet refacing is within your DIY capabilities. Once you’ve settled on your veneers, it’s time to reface your cabinets. As with any home improvement project, the key to success is preparation and patience. Here’s a list of tools and materials you’ll need:

• Cabinet veneers (either peel-and-stick or adhesive-backed)
• Scissors or utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Straight edge or ruler
• Sandpaper (medium grit)
• Tack cloth or microfiber cloth
• Adhesive (if not using peel-and-stick veneers)
• Paintbrush or foam roller (for applying adhesive)
• J-roller or wallpaper smoothing tool
• Wood filler (optional)

Step 1: Preparation

Preparation is essential for a successful refacing project. Clear the surrounding area and remove all items from your cabinets, including the doors, drawers, and hardware. 

If you need to replace veneer on cabinets, you first need to remove the old veneer. Use a utility knife to carefully cut it away. Begin with a small section to see if you can peel it off. Use a paint scraper or putty knife to gently pry it away if it’s stubborn. Be careful not to damage the underlying cabinet surface. 

Next, lightly sand all surfaces of your cabinet. Use a medium-grit sandpaper with a belt sander and/or sand block to create a smooth and slightly roughened surface. Be sure to get down to the raw wood if any paint or stain is present. This prepares the wood for better veneer adhesion.

If necessary, use wood filler to fill any gaps or imperfections and then sand them smooth. Finally, clean the cabinet surfaces with a mild soap and water solution and let them dry completely. Here are some pro tips for cleaning your cabinets:

• Use a simple solution of warm water and mild dish soap.
• Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe down the cabinets.
• Wring out the cloth well to avoid leaving excess water on the surfaces.
• Use a tack cloth to remove any dust and debris left over from sanding. 
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners — they damage the wood. 
• Wear gloves while cleaning to protect your skin from any harmful substances.
• After cleaning, let the cabinets dry completely before continuing.

Step 2: Measure and cut veneers

Measure the height and width of the cabinet surface you’re veneering. Transfer these measurements to the back of the veneer sheet, adding an extra half-inch to each side for trimming later.

Use a ruler to mark your cutting lines on the veneer and then carefully cut along them. Repeat this process for each cabinet surface that requires veneering.

Step 3: Apply the veneer

Unless you’re using peel-and-stick veneers, you now need to apply adhesive. Apply a thin, even layer to the entire cabinet surface using a paintbrush or foam roller. Add another even layer to the back sides of your veneers. Then, wait for the adhesive to become tacky.

Now comes the most delicate part — applying the veneer:

• Carefully position the veneer on the cabinet surface, aligning the edges and corners.
• Starting from the center, press the veneer onto the surface.
• Work your way from the center outward to eliminate air bubbles and wrinkles.
• Use a J-roller to apply firm pressure across the entire surface, ensuring proper adhesion.
• Trim any excess veneer using a utility knife or router, following the edges of the cabinet.

Repeat steps one through three for all cabinet surfaces that you’re veneering.

Step 4: Reassemble cabinets

Once you’ve installed your veneers and the adhesive fully cures (according to the manufacturer’s instructions), reassemble the cabinets by attaching the doors, drawers, and hardware. Now your cabinet refacing project is complete!

As you can see, the process is quite straightforward. With patience and attention to detail, you can install veneers like a pro, giving your kitchen or bathroom cabinets a brand-new look.

General tips for cabinet veneer refacing

• • Plan and measure: Take precise measurements of your cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and boxes. Plan your design and material choices carefully before starting your project.
  • Select quality veneer: Choose high-quality cabinet veneers and laminates that suit your design preferences and budget.
  • Apply adhesive carefully: Adhesive shouldn’t be too thick, and you should not apply your veneers if it’s too wet — wait until it’s tacky. Always use the adhesive recommended by the manufacturer. Use a smoothing tool to remove any air bubbles or wrinkles during application.
  • Take your time: Refacing cabinets can be a meticulous process. Be patient and take your time to ensure a professional finish.
  • Work in sections: Apply your veneers one section at a time, starting with the cabinet boxes and moving on to the doors and drawer fronts.
  • Be careful around grooves: Depending on your cabinet door profile, you will need to take extra caution around any grooves or raised details. Ensure the veneer is flush against these by using a smoothing tool.
  • Handle edge banding: For a seamless look, apply edge banding to the interior and exterior cabinet edges, matching it with the veneer material. This protects them from wear and tear.
  • Safety first: Use appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety glasses, especially when cutting or sanding veneer materials.
  • Allow adequate drying time: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for adhesive drying times. Rushing this step can affect the quality of the finish.
  • Final inspection: Carefully inspect your refaced cabinets for any imperfections or areas that may need touch-ups or adjustments before declaring the project complete.

Remember that while veneer cabinet refacing is a rewarding DIY project, it requires attention to detail. If you’re uncertain about any aspect of the process, consider consulting a professional or seeking guidance from experts in the field.

Learn more with The Cabinet Door Store

The tips in this guide are your roadmap to a successful overhaul of your cabinetry. With careful planning and a bit of patience, you can uplift the appearance of your cabinets and refresh your living space.

If you’re looking for the perfect doors, drawers, or hardware to complete your project, you’ll find what you need at The Cabinet Door Store. Our extensive range of high-quality cabinet components ensures you’ll find the ideal pieces to bring your vision to life.

Visit The Cabinet Door Store today or contact our team for more information. We’ll help you transform your cabinets into works of art that mirror your personal style and taste. Your home deserves it.