Cabinet Painting vs. Replacement: A Complete Cost Analysis

One of the most common questions we receive from Hamilton homeowners is whether they should paint their existing cabinets or replace them entirely. The answer depends on several factors including budget, timeline, cabinet condition, and your long-term goals. Let's break down everything you need to know to make the best decision for your kitchen.

Cost Breakdown: Painting vs. Replacement

When Cabinet Painting Makes Sense

Cabinet painting is an excellent choice when:

Your Cabinets Are Structurally Sound

If your cabinet boxes, doors, and drawer fronts are in good condition without significant damage, sagging, or structural issues, painting can give them a completely new look at a fraction of replacement cost.

You Like Your Kitchen Layout

When you're happy with your kitchen's functionality and storage but want a fresh aesthetic, painting is the perfect solution. There's no need to reconfigure a layout that already works for your family.

Budget Is a Primary Concern

Cabinet painting typically costs 60-80% less than replacement while delivering dramatic visual impact. For Hamilton families working with a renovation budget, this option maximizes value.

You Want Quick Results

Professional cabinet painting usually takes 3-5 days compared to 2-4 weeks for replacement. Your kitchen remains functional throughout most of the process.

When Replacement Might Be Better

Consider replacement when:

Significant Structural Issues

If cabinet boxes are sagging, doors won't close properly, or there's water damage, replacement may be more cost-effective long-term than extensive repairs plus painting.

Outdated Layout or Functionality

When your kitchen layout doesn't meet your family's needs - perhaps you need more storage, better organization, or different cabinet heights - replacement allows for complete reconfiguration.

Very Poor Cabinet Quality

Builder-grade cabinets from the 1980s and 1990s sometimes have such poor construction that investment in replacement makes more sense than painting.

Major Kitchen Renovation

If you're already changing countertops, appliances, flooring, and layout, replacement might provide better overall value and design cohesion.

The Hidden Costs to Consider

Cabinet Painting Additional Expenses

• Hardware: $200-600 for new hinges, handles, and drawer slides
• Interior Painting: $500-1,000 if you want cabinet interiors painted
• Minor Repairs: $200-500 for filling holes, fixing small damage

Replacement Hidden Costs

• Countertop Modification: $500-2,000 if new cabinets don't align with existing countertops
• Electrical/Plumbing: $800-3,000 for relocating outlets or plumbing
• Flooring: $1,000-4,000 if cabinet footprint changes
• Wall Repairs: $300-800 for patching and painting walls

Timeline Comparison

Quality and Longevity

A common concern about cabinet painting is durability. When done professionally using high-quality materials and proper techniques, painted cabinets can last 10-15 years or more. Key factors for longevity include:

• Professional Preparation: Proper sanding and priming ensure paint adhesion
• Quality Paint: Cabinet-grade paints are formulated for durability
• Expert Application: Spray application provides smoother, more durable finish than brushing
• Proper Curing: Allowing adequate drying time between coats

Making Your Decision

Consider these questions to help guide your choice:

1. What's your budget? If you have $10,000 or less, painting is likely your best option for maximum impact.
2. How long do you plan to stay in your home? If you're selling within 5 years, painting provides excellent ROI.
3. What's your timeline? Need results quickly? Painting is your answer.
4. Are you changing anything else? If you're doing a complete kitchen overhaul, replacement might make more sense.

Professional Assessment

The best way to make this decision is to have a professional evaluate your specific situation. At Painters Hamilton, we provide honest assessments and will recommend replacement if we believe it's in your best interest. Our free consultations include:

• Detailed cabinet condition evaluation
• Cost comparison for your specific kitchen
• Color and finish recommendations
• Realistic timeline expectations
• Honest assessment of potential outcomes