Updating your laminate cabinets without replacing them is a great way to save money while giving your cabinets a new look. Here are a few options to consider:
1. Repaint the existing cabinets. A good quality paint job can completely transform the look of your laminate cabinets. Make sure to use a primer and a paint good for laminate cabinets and treat it with a clear sealer to protect it and make it last.
2. Add new hardware. Try out some new handle and knob hardware to give your cabinets an instant makeover.
3. Add decorative trim. Whether it’s beadboard or molding, adding trim to the cabinet faces will aesthetically up the profile.
4. Replace the doors. Replace the laminate doors with solid wood doors for a more comprehensive update.
5. Install wainscoting or use vinyl wraps. Wainscoting is a great way to add a bit of texture and dimension to the cabinets. Alternatively, you can use a vinyl wrap, which is a thin film of adhesive that looks like real wood yet is easier to install than traditional wood pieces.
Can laminate kitchen cabinets be refinished?
Yes, laminate kitchen cabinets can be refinished, but it can be more challenging than refinishing wood cabinets. Laminate cabinets are often pre-finished, so trying to strip them down to the original surface can be difficult and dangerous.
However, with careful sanding and refinishing, they can be refreshed and look like new. Depending on the style of the cabinets and the current condition, a professional may be able to strip and refinish them, so it is always a good idea to consult with a professional before attempting to refinish them yourself.
Additionally, there are some specific paints and products on the market today that can be used to resurface laminate materials in an easier, less hazardous way.
How much does it cost to re laminate cabinets?
The cost of re-laminating cabinets can vary depending on the material you choose, the quality of work by the laminate installer, the number of cabinets that need to be re-laminated and the size of the cabinets.
For example, laminates from high quality materials such as Formica or Wilsonart will cost more than basic melamine laminates. Generally, for a 10 x 10-foot kitchen, the cost of re-laminating the cabinets can range from $1,100 to $3,000, with average prices being around $2,000; this cost includes the laminates and installation.
If you have additional features such as built-in wine racks or other types of cabinetry, this can add to the project cost. Additionally, if you plan on purchasing and installing the laminates yourself, then the cost is greatly reduced, as the only cost you incur is the price of the laminates and the supplies needed for the project.
Is it cheaper to reface or replace cabinets?
It depends on several factors, including the age and condition of your existing cabinets, the type of cabinets you have, and the materials and products you choose. Refacing, or refinishing, existing cabinets is generally much cheaper than replacing them.
This involves merely refacing the cabinet doors and drawers with either paint or new cabinet doors and drawer faces. The total cost of the refacing project can range from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars, depending on the complexity and size of the project.
By contrast, the cost of replacing cabinets can range from several thousand dollars up to more than $15,000 for a more extensive project. When deciding between refacing and replacing cabinets, it’s important to look at both the cost and the long-term quality of the work.
Refacing is often the best choice for cabinets that are in good condition, as this will get you a good quality result for less money. For cabinets that are in poor condition, replacing them may be the more cost-effective option in the long run.
Can you put new laminate over old?
Yes, you can install new laminate flooring over old laminate as long as the existing floor is even, clean, and in good condition. When installing over old laminate, it is important to check the existing subfloor is level and flat.
If it is not, you should consider using a leveling compound over the subfloor before laying the new laminate. You should also ensure that the existing laminate is securely attached. Any loose planks should be properly re-secured with floor adhesive or connect the loose planks back together with the appropriate tongue and groove.
In addition, you should clean the old laminate with an appropriate floor cleaner and remove any dirt and debris before the new laminate installation. Lastly, you need to use a special underlayment designed for laminate flooring, usually a foam or felt layer, which provides insulation and cushioning.
Following these steps will help ensure a successful installation of new laminate over the old laminate flooring.
How expensive is it to refinish kitchen cabinets?
Refinishing kitchen cabinets is an affordable way to give your kitchen a fresh, updated look. The cost of refinishing cabinets depends on the scope of the project and the type of finish used. For example, a light sanding and re-staining of stock cabinets might cost between $400 and $1,200, while replacing doors and drawer fronts could increase the cost to between $800 and $2,500.
Further customization, such as distressing the cabinets and adding new hardware, will increase these costs. However, the savings compared to replacing the entire cabinets can be significant. An investment of $1,000 -$3,000 can create a dramatic new look, while still helping to keep costs down.
Can you paint over kitchen cabinets that are laminate?
Yes, you can paint over laminate kitchen cabinets. Since painting over laminate cabinets can be tricky, it is important to take the right steps to ensure the best results.
Preparing the cabinets is the most important step in this process. You will need to thoroughly clean the cabinets with a degreaser, such as trisodium phosphate or a TSP substitute, to remove any oils and debris on the surface.
Once the cabinets are clean, you need to lightly sand the entire cabinet surface using 150 to 220-grit sandpaper to create a rougher surface for the primer and paint to better adhere.
You should use a solvent-based primer for the best adhesion and finish. Look for a primer that is specially formulated for glossy surfaces and allows for a better bond between the paint and the surface.
After the primer is dry, you can choose your color of paint. To obtain a smooth finish, use a high-grade latex paint. Apply several thin coats with a foam brush or roller and make sure to allow each coat to dry completely.
Once the final coat is dry, you can use a clear sealer to add extra durability to your cabinets.
Take your time when painting laminate kitchen cabinets and make sure to use the right products for best results.
How can I tell if my cabinets are laminate or veneer?
One way to tell if your cabinets are laminate or veneer is to take a look at the surface. Laminate cabinets will have a hard, plastic finish and won’t show any wood grain details. Veneer cabinets, however, will typically show off the wood grain underneath, giving them a more traditional look.
Additionally, laminate cabinets tend to be thinner and lighter than veneer cabinets. You can also explore the edges of the cabinets to get a definitive answer. If the edge of the door or cabinet has a plastic-looking finish, then it is likely laminate.
If the edges look like they have a wood grain, then it is likely veneer. Lastly, you can assess the cabinet door hinges. Laminate doors will typically have concealed hinges, while veneer doors will usually have exposed hinges.
What is the paint to use on laminate cabinets?
When it comes to painting laminate cabinets, the best type of paint to use is a high quality latex paint. This type of paint is specially designed to have a strong bond, so it won’t chip or peel off easily like other paints when exposed to moisture, humidity, and heat.
Keep in mind that laminate is a very slick surface and regular paint may not bond to it properly. Therefore, primers are essential for this type of project. Purchase a primer that is specifically designed for laminate surfaces for the best results.
The actual painting of the cabinets can be done with a brush or a sprayer. If you opt to use a brush, then choose one that is a little softer than those designed for regular paint. This will help ensure that the paint won’t show brush strokes.
When using a sprayer, make sure that you use low pressure and be sure to properly clean your sprayer when you are finished.
Finally, regardless of the type of paint or primer you decide to use, it is important to apply several coats. This will help ensure even coverage, and will make sure that the paint won’t chip or peel easily when exposed to moisture or humidity.
Can you replace just the laminate on a countertop?
Yes, it is possible to replace just the laminate on a countertop. Laminate is a top layer of countertop material that can suffer from wear and tear due to daily use. If the underlying pad or substrate is still in good condition, the laminate can be peeled back and replaced with a new piece.
This requires removing all of the trim along the edges and cutting a template to the exact size and shape of the countertop before applying the new laminate. Adhesive must also be applied to the back of the laminate to ensure that it is properly secured to the substrate.
It is also important to use a decorative edge strip to hide the seam between the laminate and the substrate. While it is possible to do this project on your own, it may be best to leave it to a professional to ensure that it is done correctly.
Is Formica the same as laminate?
No, Formica and laminate are not the same. Laminate is a material composed of several layers of paper and resin that can be used for countertops or other household surfaces. Formica is a brand of laminate and is actually the brand name for a type of decorative and protective plastic laminate sheet.
While Formica is a type of laminate, it is not the same as laminate in general. Formica is a specific type of laminate product, while laminate is an entire category of products that includes more than just Formica.