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If you’re looking to give your kitchen a quick, easy, and low-cost makeover, you can achieve it by replacing kitchen cabinet doors. The cost depends on the material and style, but it is still far more economical than a complete renovation. You will be surprised at the radical change you can achieve.
In this blog post, you will learn about the advantages of different materials and how to choose the color based on the impact you want to create. Whether you decide to do it yourself or hire professionals, we will provide you with the necessary materials and tools, along with a step-by-step guide to help you achieve your dream kitchen.
Advantages of Each Material
We present the different material options for replacing kitchen cabinet doors, considering all budgets.
Among the more economical options are laminated or stratified cabinet doors. They are resistant to scratching and impact.
Melamine cabinet doors typically have particleboard inside. They are resistant to temperature changes and humidity and come in a wide variety of colors. It is important to choose high-quality ones, as the edges may peel off and allow moisture to seep in.
PVC or poly-laminated cabinet doors are made of Medium-Density Fiberboard (MDF) but are coated with PVC or poly-laminate. PVC is 100% waterproof and moisture-resistant, resistant to insect attacks, and non-flammable. However, a drawback is that the PVC sheet does not tolerate extreme temperatures well.
Next in line are the higher-end options. Lacquered cabinet doors have a natural wood or medium-density support and undergo several layers of paint, providing an impeccable finish. They are listed among the materials most susceptible to dents and scratches. The appearance ranges from glossy to matte or satin.
Veneered cabinet doors typically have particleboard inside and a fine layer of varnished natural wood on the exterior. Although it is not solid wood, it imparts the beauty of solid wood but is more economical.Regarding wooden cabinet doors, there are those made with solid wood and those crafted with particleboard covered by a layer of solid wood veneer. They stand out for their warmth and natural beauty, and they are highly durable.
How does color influence your kitchen?
White and Pastel Tones
You might wonder why white and pastel tones are the most commonly used colors in kitchens. This is because white gives a sense of greater brightness, spaciousness, and cleanliness, while pastel tones create warm and peaceful environments. They are ideal for small kitchens or those with little light.
Vibrant Colors
Vibrant colors are a fun option to add your personal touch. You can play with bright or bold colors, dare with oranges, reds, purples, greens.
Dark Colors
They can be a very elegant option for kitchens that are spacious and well-lit. For the most optimal result, we suggest that the countertop, walls, and ceiling be light or white.
Let’s get to work!
With the choice of cabinet doors made, let’s begin the renovation. Below, we detail the materials, tools, and step-by-step process. Keep in mind that the instructions we provide are general and for guidance purposes.
Materials and Tools:
Kitchen doors
Moldings and/or cornices
Drill driver
Combination drill and countersink bit
Hinges (if necessary)
Handles (if necessary)
Adjustment screws
Wood screws
Miter saw or ribbed saw and miter box
Mounting adhesive
Applicator gun
Clamps
Pencil/pen
Ruler/tape measure
Step by Step
In the event that the new cabinet doors don’t have pre-drilled holes, you’ll need to mark the position and diameter for the hinges, the screw guides, and the handles. It is essential to do this with precision, so have a ruler or tape measure and a pencil or pen on hand. Use the drill and the combination drill and countersink bit to make the holes.
To remove the current kitchen cabinet doors, use the drill driver or a screwdriver. If the hinges are in good condition, you can reuse them. The same goes for the handles, but for a complete aesthetic change, we suggest replacing them. You’ll also need to remove the cornice and molding.
When installing the new kitchen cabinet doors, we recommend first screwing in the handles. Then, place the doors in the cabinets, securing them with cup hinges. To adjust the level and height, use the adjustment screws and a screwdriver.
To ensure the new doors fit perfectly, take measurements for the new moldings and cornices and cut them using the miter saw, or if unavailable, use a ribbed saw and miter box.
Finally, apply mounting adhesive to the back of the moldings/cornices using the applicator gun. Remember to secure them with clamps (also known as grips or C-clamps); you can remove them once the adhesive has done its job.
PIC Home Pros is here to help!
While it’s not a complicated process, like any remodeling, it needs to be done with the necessary care to achieve an optimal result. Additionally, certain steps require specific tools that may not be found in some households as they are not used on a daily basis. For these reasons, we invite you to meet our experts; feel free to contact us to get a free estimate.
