Cost to Add Decorative Elements on Refaced Cabinets: A Comprehensive Guide
Refacing your cabinets can be a fantastic way to give your kitchen a fresh new look without breaking the bank. By replacing the doors, drawer fronts, and hardware of your existing cabinets, and applying a new veneer to the cabinet boxes, you can achieve a dramatic transformation at a fraction of the cost of replacing the entire cabinetry. However, when it comes to adding decorative elements to your refaced cabinets, the cost can vary greatly depending on several factors.
Factors Affecting the Cost of Adding Decorative Elements on Refaced Cabinets
The cost to add decorative elements on refaced cabinets depends on several factors, including the size of your kitchen, the materials you choose, labor rates, and your location. Material choice, from laminate to solid wood, has the greatest impact on overall price. Labor often makes up the majority of the total cost, especially for complex designs. Optional upgrades like lighting, hardware, or backsplashes can further increase expenses.
Common Decorative Elements to Add to Refaced Cabinets
- Soft-close hinges and drawer slides: These add a touch of luxury and prevent slamming, making them a popular choice for homeowners who want to upgrade their kitchen's functionality.
- Crown molding and light rails: These decorative trims can give your cabinets a more custom, built-in look, adding a touch of elegance to your kitchen.
- Glass-front doors: Perfect for showcasing decorative dishes, glass-front doors can add a touch of sophistication to your kitchen.
- Under-cabinet lighting: This can help to create a warm and inviting ambiance in your kitchen, making it perfect for cooking and entertaining.
- Decorative trim and molding: You can add decorative trim and molding to your cabinets to give them a more custom look, or to match the style of your kitchen.
Cost of Adding Decorative Elements on Refaced Cabinets
The cost of adding decorative elements on refaced cabinets can vary greatly depending on the materials and labor costs in your area. Here are some estimated costs for common decorative elements:

- Soft-close hinges and drawer slides: $50-$200 per cabinet
- Crown molding and light rails: $100-$500 per cabinet
- Glass-front doors: $200-$1,000 per cabinet
- Under-cabinet lighting: $100-$500 per cabinet
- Decorative trim and molding: $50-$200 per cabinet
Tips for Saving Money on Decorative Elements for Refaced Cabinets
While adding decorative elements to your refaced cabinets can be expensive, there are ways to save money. Here are some tips:
- Choose affordable materials: Opt for laminate or MDF instead of solid wood for your decorative elements.
- DIY installation: Consider installing the decorative elements yourself to save on labor costs.
- Shop around: Compare prices from different suppliers and contractors to find the best deals.
- Prioritize: Focus on the most important decorative elements and skip the rest to save money.
Conclusion
Adding decorative elements to your refaced cabinets can be a great way to give your kitchen a fresh new look, but it can also be expensive. By understanding the factors that affect the cost and choosing affordable materials and DIY installation, you can save money and achieve the look you want. Remember to prioritize your needs and focus on the most important decorative elements to get the best value for your money.