Cabinets are one of the first things people notice in your kitchen or bathroom. But over time, they can lose their shine. If you’re looking to give them a fresh look without the cost of replacing them, refinishing is the way to go. The big question is—how do you find cabinet refinishing near me that’s reliable, affordable, and high quality?
Let’s break it down step by step.
What is Cabinet Refinishing?
Cabinet refinishing means giving your cabinets a fresh finish without replacing them. It’s a smart way to save money and still get a “like-new” look.
Instead of ripping everything out, a refinishing expert will:
- Clean the cabinets
- Sand or strip the old finish
- Apply new stain, paint, or coating
It’s quicker than replacing cabinets. It’s also better for the environment and your wallet.
Why Choose Cabinet Refinishing?
There are a few big reasons why people search for cabinet refinishing near me:
- Cost savings: Refinishing is cheaper than buying new cabinets.
- Time-efficient: It usually takes just a few days.
- Less mess: No need to tear out or reinstall.
- Custom look: You can choose any style, color, or finish.
So if your cabinets are in good shape but just need a facelift, refinishing is a great choice.
How to Start Your Search
When searching for cabinet refinishing near me, start simple. Use Google. Type in the keyword and look at the top results. Pay attention to:
- Ratings and reviews
- Photos of past work
- Location
- Services offered
Don’t just look at ads. Scroll to the local listings and organic search results. These usually give you a more honest picture of a company’s work.
Ask for Recommendations
One of the best ways to find quality services? Ask around.
- Talk to friends, family, or coworkers.
- Check local Facebook groups.
- Post on community forums like Nextdoor.
You’ll likely hear about who to hire—and who to avoid.
If someone says, “These guys did my kitchen, and it looks amazing,” you’re on the right track.
What to Look For in a Refinishing Company
Not all companies are created equal. Here’s what to check before hiring:
- Experience: Look for someone who’s been doing this for years.
- Photos: A picture says more than a quote.
- Clear process: They should explain every step.
- Materials used: Ask about the type of paint or finish.
- Warranty: A good company stands behind their work.
You want someone who treats your home like their own.
Ask the Right Questions
When you talk to a company offering cabinet refinishing near me, ask:
- How long will it take?
- Do I need to empty my cabinets?
- What kind of finish do you use?
- Is there a strong odor?
- Will it chip or peel over time?
These questions help you understand what to expect.
Compare Quotes (But Don’t Just Pick the Cheapest)
It’s tempting to choose the lowest price. But cheap doesn’t always mean good. A super low quote might mean:
- Rushed work
- Low-quality materials
- No warranty
Ask for at least three quotes. Compare what’s included. Make sure you’re getting value, not just a low number.
Visit a Local Showroom (If Possible)
Some refinishing companies have a physical space where you can see samples or past work. If they do—visit it. You’ll get a better sense of their quality and style.
Not every company has a showroom, but the ones that do often take extra pride in their work.
Look for Local Experts
When you search cabinet refinishing near me, stay local. Local businesses care more about their reputation in the community. They also:
- Arrive faster
- Understand local trends
- Are easier to reach
Plus, supporting local businesses helps the entire community.
Online Reviews Matter
Don’t skip this step. Read both good and bad reviews. Look at:
- Yelp
- Better Business Bureau (BBB)
Are there lots of happy customers? That’s a good sign. Are there complaints about missed appointments or poor work? Take note.
The Refinishing Process: What to Expect
A good refinishing job usually follows this process:
- Assessment: They look at your cabinets and give you options.
- Cleaning: All grease and dirt is removed.
- Sanding or stripping: Old paint or stain is removed.
- Repairs: Any small dings or chips are fixed.
- Priming and painting/staining: The new finish is applied.
- Drying and sealing: A protective coat is added for durability.
This process usually takes 3–5 days.
DIY or Hire a Pro?
You might think, “Can I just do this myself?”
Sure, you can. But ask yourself:
- Do I have time?
- Do I know how to sand and strip wood?
- Can I paint evenly and cleanly?
If not, it’s safer (and often cheaper in the long run) to hire a pro. Especially when it comes to kitchen cabinets that get heavy use.
How Much Does It Cost?
Costs vary depending on:
- Cabinet size and number
- Type of wood
- Type of finish
- Your location
On average, expect to pay between $1,500 and $4,000. Still, that’s far cheaper than full cabinet replacement, which can run $10,000 or more.
Final Tips Before Hiring
- Don’t pay 100% upfront. A deposit is normal, but final payment should come after the job is done.
- Get everything in writing: scope of work, price, timeline.
- Ask for before-and-after photos.
- Ask for references—and actually call them.
When you’re looking for cabinet refinishing near me, take your time and do your homework. It’s worth it.
FAQs
Q: Is cabinet refinishing better than replacing?
A: Yes, if your cabinets are still in good condition. Refinishing costs less and takes less time than replacing.
Q: How long does cabinet refinishing take?
A: Most jobs take 3 to 5 days, depending on the size and the number of cabinets.
Q: Will refinishing make my cabinets look brand new?
A: Yes. A proper refinishing job can give your cabinets a fresh, new look that lasts for years.
Q: How do I know if a company does good work?
A: Check reviews, ask for references, and look at before-and-after photos. You should also ask about their process and materials.
Q: Is cabinet refinishing safe to do while I’m living in the home?
A: Yes, most refinishing work is safe. But there may be some odors from the paint or finish. Ask your contractor if they use low-VOC products.