Kitchen Cabinet Door Replacement Costs: 5 Smart Ideas: Practical small-space kitchen ideas to lower cost and boost style

I once agreed to a client’s request to paint her kitchen cabinets teal at midnight — long story short, I learned that impulsive color choices can cost you sleep and money. That little fiasco taught me that replacing cabinet doors is one of the fastest ways to refresh a kitchen without gutting everything, and small decisions can lead to big savings or surprising headaches.

1. Partial Door Replacement: Mix new fronts with existing cabinets

When the boxes are still solid but the doors show wear, swapping just the cabinet doors can cut costs dramatically. I did this for a condo client who hated the old shaker doors; replacing only the upper doors and repainting the lower cabinets created a boutique look for a fraction of a full overhaul. It’s budget-friendly and quick, though matching veneers or paint exactly can be a little fussy.

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2. Buy ready-to-assemble (RTA) doors for standard sizes

For standard cabinet dimensions, RTA doors save on labor and material. I’ve used RTA panels when clients wanted a modern flat-front style — they arrived fast and installation was straightforward. The upside is lower cost and consistent quality; the downside is fewer custom sizes and limited finishes. If you want to test fit before committing, try using a room planner to map your cabinet sizes precisely.

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3. Reface with thin new door panels — a mid-budget win

Refacing uses new veneer or door panels glued over existing frames and is great when your cabinet structure is sound. I recommended refacing to a family who loved their layout but wanted an updated wood tone; the project felt premium without a full remodel. Advantages: quicker than full replacement and better finishes than RTA. Challenges include alignment and matching trims, so plan for precise measurements.

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4. DIY painted doors: lowest cost, high personality

Painting or reglazing existing doors can be done DIY on a weekend and gives huge visual impact. I’ll admit I’ve sanded and sprayed doors in my garage more times than I can count — it’s satisfying and wallet-friendly. Expect time investment and prep work; paint durability depends on prep and finish coat quality. For tricky cabinets, consider a 3d floor planner to visualize color combos before you paint.

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5. Custom MDF or solid wood doors for long-term value

Going custom costs more upfront but pays off in longevity and exact style matching. I steer clients who plan to stay in their home toward custom doors — they can get inset styles, unique profiles, and solid construction. The benefit is lasting value and resale appeal; the trade-off is higher cost and lead time. If you’re serious about layout changes at the same time, a kitchen layout planner can help coordinate the whole project.

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FAQ

What is the average cost to replace kitchen cabinet doors? Typically $100–$600 per door depending on material and labor; full kitchens vary widely from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.

How much can I save by painting instead of replacing? Painting can cost 20–80% less than replacement, especially if you do it yourself; professional paint jobs increase durability but add labor costs.

Are RTA doors durable? Good quality RTA doors are durable for many years; avoid the cheapest particleboard options and check edge finishes and hinges.

What should I measure before buying new doors? Measure door width, height, overlay type, and hinge placement; accurate measurements prevent costly returns.

Is refacing better than replacing? Refacing is less invasive and usually cheaper, but it only works if cabinet boxes are in good condition.

How long does a door replacement take? A partial door swap can be done in a day or two; full custom replacements may take several weeks for manufacturing and a few days to install.

Will replacing doors increase my home value? Yes, updated cabinets often improve perceived kitchen value and can boost resale appeal; consult local real estate trends for specifics.

Where can I find reliable measurement and layout help? For precise planning, manufacturers and trusted design sources like the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) provide standards and guidance (https://www.nkba.org).

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