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Complete Cost Comparison Guide
Cabinet Painting vs Replacement: Which Saves More Money?
Tired of your dated kitchen cabinets? You have two options: paint them or replace them entirely. For most San Diego County homeowners, cabinet painting delivers the dramatic transformation you want at a fraction of the cost. Here's a complete breakdown to help you decide.
Cost Comparison: Painting vs Replacement
Cabinet Painting
$3,000 - $7,000
Average kitchen (20-30 doors)
- Completed in 3-7 days
- Kitchen stays functional
- No plumbers or electricians needed
- Eco-friendly (less waste)
- Keep existing layout and hardware
Cabinet Replacement
$15,000 - $40,000+
Average kitchen (stock to semi-custom)
- Takes 4-8 weeks
- Kitchen unusable for days
- May need plumber/electrician
- Old cabinets go to landfill
- Can change layout entirely
Cabinet painting saves you $12,000 - $33,000 compared to replacement
When Cabinet Painting Makes Sense
✓ Paint Your Cabinets If:
- Cabinets are structurally sound
- You like the current layout
- You want a quick transformation
- Budget is a priority
- Cabinets are real wood or quality MDF
- You're keeping existing countertops
✗ Replace Cabinets If:
- Significant structural damage or rot
- Water damage beyond repair
- You want to change the layout
- Full kitchen remodel planned
- Cabinets are low-quality particleboard
- Need more storage capacity
What Cabinet Painting Includes
Professional cabinet painting is more than just slapping on a coat of paint. At Franklin Custom Finish, our comprehensive process ensures a factory-quality finish that lasts:
Preparation
- • Remove all doors, drawers, and hardware
- • Degrease with TSP solution
- • Sand all surfaces for adhesion
- • Fill dings, scratches, and grain (if desired)
- • Apply bonding primer
Application
- • Professional HVLP spray equipment
- • Premium cabinet-grade paints
- • Multiple thin coats for durability
- • Light sanding between coats
- • Final clear coat (optional)
We use the same professional-grade paints and techniques as high-end cabinet refinishing shops. The result is a smooth, durable finish that withstands daily kitchen use. Many homeowners also choose to combine cabinet painting with interior wall painting for a complete kitchen refresh.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does cabinet painting cost vs replacement in San Diego?
Cabinet painting in San Diego County typically costs $3,000-$7,000 for an average kitchen, while full cabinet replacement costs $15,000-$40,000+. Painting saves 50-75% compared to replacement while achieving a dramatic transformation.
Is it worth painting cabinets instead of replacing them?
Yes, if your cabinets are structurally sound. Cabinet painting delivers a brand-new look at a fraction of replacement cost, typically completed in 3-7 days vs 4-8 weeks. It's also more eco-friendly and doesn't require plumbers or electricians.
How long do painted cabinets last?
Professionally painted cabinets with proper preparation and premium cabinet-grade paints last 8-15 years with normal use. Quality matters—we use Benjamin Moore Advance, Sherwin-Williams Emerald, and specialty lacquers for maximum durability.
When should you replace cabinets instead of painting?
Replace cabinets if they have significant structural damage, water damage, outdated layout you want to change, or if you're doing a full kitchen remodel with new flooring and countertops. Otherwise, painting is typically the smarter choice.
Get Your Free Cabinet Painting Estimate
Transform your kitchen cabinets for a fraction of replacement cost. Contact Franklin Custom Finish for a detailed estimate.