Wondering how long refaced cabinets last? Learn what affects cabinet refacing durability, typical lifespan expectations, and how to maximize your investment.
Lifespan & Durability Guide
When your thinking about cabinet refacing for your Oakville kitchen, one of the biggest questions is ‘how long will this actually last?’
The short answer: professionally refaced cabinets typically last 15-20 years with proper care, with many lasting 25+ years.
But the lifespan of your refaced cabinets depends on several factors – the quality of materials used, how well the work was done, and how you take care of them over the years.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything that affects how long your cabinet refacing will last and how to maximize your investment.
What Actually Gets Replaced During Cabinet Refacing
Before we talk about durability, its important to understand what parts of your cabinets get changed during refacing and what stays the same.
What Gets Replaced:
All cabinet doors (brand new)
All drawer fronts (brand new)
Cabinet hardware like hinges and handles (usually upgraded)
Exterior surfaces of cabinet boxes (Spray Painted on Site)
What Stays:
The actual cabinet box structure
Internal shelving (unless you request upgrades)
The cabinet layout and configuration
This is actually good news for longevity. Your existing cabinet boxes are probably built better than most new cabinets you could buy today. Older cabinets were often made with solid wood or high-quality plywood, not the particle board that alot of modern budget cabinets use.
So when people ask “how long does cabinet refacing last,” what they’re really asking about is how long the new doors, drawer fronts, and finish will hold up. The answer depends heavily on the quality of these materials and the installation process.
For professional cabinet refacing in Oakville, Kitchen Made New uses high-quality materials designed to last as long as the original cabinet boxes – often 20+ years.
Want to understand the complete cabinet refacing process from start to finish?
Expected Lifespan: What the Numbers Really Mean
Heres what you can realistically expect from cabinet refacing at different quality levels:
Budget Refacing (DIY or Low-Cost Contractors): 8-12 years
These projects often use thinner veneers, lower-grade door materials, and less durable finishes. The doors might start showing wear after 5-7 years, and the veneer could begin peeling in high-moisture areas.
Professional High-End Refacing: 20-25+ years
Premium materials, expert installation, and superior finishes mean your cabinets can last as long as completely new custom cabinets would. Some homeowners never need to reface again.
A local homeowner in Bronte recently shared that her parents had their cabinets refaced 23 years ago and they still look fantastic. The key difference? They invested in quality materials upfront and took care of them properly.
Its worth noting that “lasting” doesnt just mean staying intact – it also means continuing to look good. Cheaper refacing might technically survive for 15 years, but could look worn and dated after just 8-10 years. Quality refacing should still look modern and well-maintained throughout its entire lifespan.
The investment in quality materials typically costs 20-30% more upfront but can double the usable lifespan of your cabinets.
Factors That Affect Cabinet Refacing Durability
Several things determine whether your refaced cabinets will last 10 years or 25 years:
1. Materials and Installation Quality
The type of materials and how they’re installed make all the difference. Thermofoil doors are affordable but can peel in high-heat areas near stoves and dishwashers. Solid wood doors cost more but can last decades without issues.
For cabinet box exteriors, the finishing method matters too. Some companies use cheaper vinyl veneer that might peel within 5-7 years. At Kitchen Made New, we use professional spray painting techniques on cabinet boxes, which provides a durable, factory-like finish that can last 20+ years when properly applied.
Even the best materials wont last if they’re installed poorly. Doors need to be properly aligned or they’ll wear out hinges prematurely. Edges need to be sealed correctly to prevent moisture damage. This is why choosing an experienced cabinet refacing company matters so much.
2. Kitchen Usage and Maintenance
A kitchen that gets heavy daily use from a large family will naturally show more wear than a kitchen used by one or two people. If you cook frequently (especially with high heat or lots of moisture), your cabinet finish will face more stress. High-traffic areas like cabinets near the stove, dishwasher, and sink face the most challenges.
How you clean and maintain your refaced cabinets also has a big impact on longevity. Harsh chemical cleaners can damage finishes over time. Excess moisture from not wiping up spills can cause issues. Regular cleaning with appropriate products keeps everything looking good and prevents damage.
3. Environmental Factors
Oakville’s humidity levels, especially in summer, can affect cabinet materials. Homes with poor ventilation in the kitchen may see issues sooner. Temperature fluctuations can also impact certain materials over time. Proper kitchen ventilation helps extend the life of your refaced cabinets.
How Cabinet Refacing Compares to Other Options
Understanding how refacing compares to alternatives helps put the lifespan question in perspective:
Brand New Custom Cabinets: 20-30+ years
New custom cabinets should last longest, but only if you buy quality construction. Budget new cabinets made with particle board might only last 10-15 years – less than quality refacing.
These fall in a similar range to quality refacing, but cost significantly more. Your paying extra for a complete replacement when your existing boxes are probably fine.
Stock/Semi-Custom New Cabinets: 15-20 years
The key insight?
Quality cabinet refacing offers similar longevity to new cabinets at roughly 50% of the cost. Your existing cabinet boxes were likely built better than most new budget cabinets anyway.
If your current cabinet boxes are solid and the layout works for your needs, refacing gives you a fresh look that lasts just as long as replacement would – for way less money.
Still deciding between refacing and replacement? Read our complete comparison guide.
Learn more about cost comparisons in our Cabinet Refacing Cost Guide Oakville.
Signs Your Refaced Cabinets Are Aging Well (vs. Warning Signs)
Time is money, especially when you can’t use your kitchen properly.
Good Signs (Your Refacing is Lasting):
Doors still close smoothly and align properly
Finish still looks fresh without significant fading
No warping or cracking in doors or drawer fronts
Hardware functions smoothly
Warning Signs (Issues Developing):
Finish starting to peel or chip, especially near moisture sources
Doors no longer close properly or hang crooked
Finish showing excessive wear or discoloration
Visible swelling or warping from moisture damage
Hardware becoming loose or doors sagging
The Reality Check:
Most quality refacing should show only minor wear (tiny scratches, slight dulling of finish) even after 10-15 years. If you’re seeing major issues within the first 5 years, something went wrong with either materials or installation.
The good news is that many issues can be repaired if caught early. A loose door can be adjusted, a small section of chipped finish can be touched up, and hardware can be tightened or replaced. Regular maintenance prevents small problems from becoming big ones.
How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Refaced Cabinets
Want to make sure your refaced cabinets last 20+ years? Follow these tips:
Daily Habits:
Wipe up spills immediately, especially near stove and sink
Use your range hood when cooking to reduce moisture and grease
Close doors and drawers gently (dont slam them)
Keep cabinet surfaces dry
Regular Cleaning:
Clean with mild soap and water or cabinet-specific cleaners
Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive scrubbers, or ammonia-based products
Dry surfaces after cleaning
Clean up grease buildup before it hardens
Periodic Maintenance:
Tighten loose hinges and hardware annually
Touch up small scratches or chips promptly
Check for any finish issues at edges and address immediately
Ensure proper kitchen ventilation is working
Protective Measures:
Use trivets or heat pads near cabinets by the stove
Install cabinet liners in areas prone to moisture
Consider adding soft-close hinges to reduce door impact
Keep humidity levels reasonable with proper ventilation
These simple habits dont take much time but can add years to your cabinet lifespan. Think of it like maintaining your car – small regular attention prevents big problems later.
Conclusion
So how long does cabinet refacing last? With quality materials, professional installation, and proper care, you should expect 15-20 years minimum, with many installations lasting 25+ years.
The key is choosing a reputable company that uses quality materials and employs experienced installers. Cutting corners to save a few hundred dollars upfront can cost you thousands in premature replacement costs later.
Your refaced cabinets should look great and function perfectly for at least as long as new mid-range cabinets would – often longer, since your existing cabinet boxes are probably better quality than most new budget options.
Get Your FREE Kitchen Consultation Today
Ready to discuss cabinet refacing for your Oakville kitchen?
Get Your Free In-Home Consultation
We’ll assess your cabinets honestly, show you samples of styles and finishes, and give you accurate pricing for your specific kitchen. No pressure, just professional guidance.
Whether you choose cabinet refacing or full replacement, we’re here to help you make the best decision for your home.
📞 Call: +1 (289) 815-3353
📧 Email: [email protected]
📍 Visit: 1155 North Service Rd W Unit 11, Oakville, ON L6M 3E3
Serving: Oakville, Burlington, Mississauga, Milton, and Hamilton
Learn More About Cabinet Refacing
Want to dive deeper into cabinet refacing? Check out these helpful resources:
Cabinet Refacing Cost Guide Oakville – Detailed pricing breakdown and what affects your final cost
Cabinet Refacing vs Replacement: Which is Right? – Compare both options side-by-side to make the best decision
Best Materials for Cabinet Refacing – Compare solid wood, thermofoil, painted MDF, and laminate options
Cabinet Refacing Process: What to Expect – Step-by-step timeline and what happens each day
