Cabinet Refacing Options: Know Your Veneers

Choosing the right veneer is an important part of any cabinet refacing job; the right choice can yield significant savings in a project that's already budget-friendly. Some homeowners insist on only the best, but for others, budget is the primary concern - especially when the goal is simply to rent or sell an older property, or to update style without the cost and mess of a full kitchen remodel. Whether you're a do-it-yourselfer or you're having the job done professionally, knowing your cabinet refacing options can help move you in the right direction. Take a look at three popular cabinet veneers:

Wood

Genuine wood veneers are still the choice pick for homeowners with the highest quality standards, and who don't mind paying extra for top notch material. Using wood can cost anywhere from $2,000-$6,000 more than RTF or other budget options, bringing a cabinet refacing job to the $10,000 mark or higher. But if compromise isn't an option, a wood veneer can provide you with elegant, lasting and authentic cabinets for years to come.

RTF

Rigid thermofoil (RTF) is one of the most popular cabinet refacing options for budget-conscious homeowners. A great alternative to real wood, RTF can not only save you thousands over genuine wood veneer, but the flexible material creates a convincing replica of real wood grain, even from short distances.

Because RTF is easy to shape, it lends itself nicely to beautiful cabinet designs that can incorporate arches and other decorative features, and its affordable durability works great for families with a lot of traffic from children and pets.

Plastic

While not as durable or malleable as RTF material, plastic veneer has a wide range of colors and wood-like designs available to choose from, and it can be a great way to achieve a sleek, modern look.

As with anything, when you evaluate cabinet refacing options, be sure your choices match your goals for the project to get the most out of the time and money spent to update your home.