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Cabinet Refinishing & Refacing Cost in Vancouver BC (2026)

A complete guide to cabinet refinishing, refacing, and replacement costs across Greater Vancouver. Based on our experience completing kitchen renovations with custom cabinetry throughout the region.

$35,000
Avg. Refinishing
$20,000 – $60,000
Price Range
Save 50–70%
vs. Replacement
3–5 days
Typical Timeline

Cabinet Update Options by Cost

Three approaches to updating your kitchen cabinets in Greater Vancouver

Cabinet Refinishing

$4,000 – $8,000

Professional sanding, priming, and repainting or restaining of existing cabinet doors and frames. Best for solid wood cabinets in good structural condition. The most cost-effective way to transform your kitchen.

Cabinet Refacing

$8,000 – $15,000

Replacing cabinet doors and drawer fronts while keeping existing cabinet boxes. Includes new veneer on visible surfaces and new hardware. A mid-range option that gives a completely new look without full demolition.

Full Cabinet Replacement

$15,000 – $30,000+

Complete removal and installation of new cabinets. Choose from stock, semi-custom, or fully custom options. Best when cabinets are structurally damaged or you want to change the kitchen layout entirely.

Refinishing vs. Replacement: Which Is Right for You?

Understanding the trade-offs helps you make the best decision for your kitchen and budget

Refinishing / Refacing

  • ✓ 50–70% less expensive than replacement
  • ✓ Completed in 3–5 days with minimal disruption
  • ✓ Eco-friendly — keeps existing cabinets out of landfill
  • ✗ Cannot change cabinet layout or configuration

Full Replacement

  • ✓ Completely customize layout, size, and configuration
  • ✓ Address structural issues and water damage
  • ✓ Modern features like soft-close and pull-out organizers
  • ✗ 2–4 weeks of construction and higher cost

What Affects Your Cabinet Refinishing Cost?

Six key factors that determine your final price

Number of Cabinets

A typical Vancouver kitchen has 20–30 cabinet doors and drawer fronts. More doors means more labour and materials. Expect to pay $150–$300 per door for professional refinishing.

Cabinet Material

Solid wood cabinets refinish beautifully. MDF and thermofoil cabinets require different techniques and may cost more. Laminate cabinets need special adhesion primers for lasting results.

Finish Type

Basic paint refinishing costs less than specialty finishes. Staining, glazing, or distressed looks add $500–$1,500 to the project. Two-tone cabinet designs are popular but require extra labour.

Hardware Upgrades

New handles, knobs, and hinges can add $300–$2,000 depending on quality. Upgrading to soft-close hinges is highly recommended and typically costs $5–$15 per hinge installed.

Kitchen Size & Accessibility

Larger kitchens with upper and lower cabinets, pantry units, and island cabinets cost more. Hard-to-reach cabinets or intricate moulding details increase labour time.

Current Cabinet Condition

Cabinets with water damage, delamination, or structural issues may need repairs before refinishing. Significant damage may make refinishing impractical — refacing or replacement becomes the better option.

Related Kitchen Projects with Cabinet Work

Browse our completed kitchen renovations featuring custom cabinetry across Greater Vancouver

Surrey

Kitchen Renovation with Custom Cabinets and Quartz Countertops$29,000 - $31,000 4-5 weeksHouseModern Kitchen Renovation with Custom Cabinets$35,000 - $38,000 4-5 weeksCondo

Richmond

Stunning Kitchen Renovation with White Shaker CabinetsTownhouseBathroom Renovation with White Shaker CabinetsHouse

West Vancouver

Stylish Kitchen Renovation with White Cabinets and Gold Handles$29,000 - $33,000 3-4 weeksHouseMake One Into Two Bathroom Renovation with Custom Cabinets$57,000 - $60,000 9-11 weeksHouse

Burnaby

Custom Kitchen Renovation with Wood Veins Cabinets$30,000 - $35,000 4-5 weeksTownhouse

Langley

Modern Kitchen Renovation with White Shaker Cabinets$20,000 - $23,000 4-5 weeksTownhouse

Money-Saving Tips for Cabinet Updates

Consider Refinishing First

If your cabinet boxes are structurally sound, refinishing saves 50–70% over replacement. A professional paint job on solid wood cabinets can last 10–15 years with proper care.

Update Hardware for Instant Impact

New handles and knobs are the easiest and cheapest upgrade. Modern hardware on freshly painted cabinets can make your kitchen look completely renovated for a fraction of the cost.

Choose Durable Finishes

Invest in high-quality cabinet paint or lacquer. Benjamin Moore Advance or similar cabinet-grade finishes cost more upfront but resist chipping and yellowing far better than standard wall paint.

Bundle with a Kitchen Renovation

If you are already planning a kitchen renovation, bundling cabinet work with countertop and backsplash updates often results in better overall pricing and a more cohesive design.

Get Your Free Cabinet Refinishing Quote

Tell us about your cabinet project and receive a detailed estimate within 48 hours — no obligation.

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