I have these outdated honey oak kitchen cabinets that are about 35 years old, and I really dislike their appearance. There's also a noticeable gap between the cabinets and the ceiling that feels like wasted space. The granite countertops are about 10 years old. I wish I had replaced the cabinets back when we did the countertops. I'm looking for the most budget-friendly options to update these cabinets since we're on a fixed income. Should I get quotes from contractors, or reach out to Home Depot or Lowe's for estimates? Where do I even begin?
3 Answers
Your budget will really determine your options here. What’s the exact amount you’re willing to spend? Also, how many cabinets do you have to deal with?
Painting is definitely the cheapest way to refresh your cabinets. Just clean, sand, prime, and paint! If they’re in decent shape, you could also consider just swapping out the door fronts for a more modern look. Back in 2021, I bought some really old Amish cabinets that were in great condition and way better quality than modern ones from big box stores. You might even look into new drawer slides if needed, but those cabinets might last a long time as is.
If your cabinets are still structurally sound, painting, updating to hidden hinges, and getting new hardware is the most affordable way to freshen them up. If you’re going to paint anyway, consider replacing the doors for a modern look. Adding some trim or a crown to close that ceiling gap could also help.