If you love your kitchen layout but hate how your cabinets look, refacing is one of the smartest upgrades you can make. It’s faster, cleaner, and significantly more affordable than replacing every cabinet box. But one of the first questions homeowners ask is simple:
“What is the real cost of cabinet refacing in Chapel Hill, NC?”
In this guide, we break down everything you need to know, average prices, what impacts the final cost, the difference between refacing and replacing, local material trends, and how to choose the right contractor. Whether you’re in Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, or the surrounding Triangle area, this resource will help you budget with confidence.
Average Cost of Cabinet Refacing in Chapel Hill, NC
The average cost of cabinet refacing in Chapel Hill, NC ranges from $4,200 to $12,500, depending on size, material quality, and customization. Most homeowners fall into the $6,500–$9,500 range for an average-sized kitchen.
Typical Cost Breakdown
| Kitchen Size | What You Get | Average Price |
| Small Kitchen (10×10) | Basic laminate, standard hardware | $4,200–$6,000 |
| Medium Kitchen | Veneer or mid-range wood, upgraded hardware | $6,500–$9,500 |
| Large Kitchen | Premium hardwoods, soft-close systems | $9,500–$12,500+ |
Because Chapel Hill homes often include custom cabinetry, wider kitchen layouts, and higher-end finishes, many local projects trend toward the mid-to-high end of the spectrum.
What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing is a kitchen renovation option that updates the appearance of your old cabinets while keeping the existing cabinet boxes in place. Instead of tearing out your cabinetry, a contractor replaces:
- Doors
- Drawer fronts
- Hinges
- Hardware
- Exterior veneers or laminates
This allows you to achieve a brand-new look at a fraction of the cost of a full replacement.
What Impacts the Cost of Cabinet Refacing in Chapel Hill, NC?
Several local and project-specific factors influence pricing. Understanding these helps you determine where your budget should go.
1. Material Type (Biggest Cost Factor)
The material you choose has the greatest impact on the total cost.
Most Common Options:
✔ Laminate
Budget-friendly, durable, available in many colors.
$50–$90 per linear foot
✔ Veneered Wood
Real wood surface fused to a stable backing.
$90–$140 per linear foot
✔ Solid Wood Doors
Best long-term durability and luxury appeal.
$140–$200+ per linear foot
In Chapel Hill, Shaker-style solid wood and premium white oak veneers are among the most requested upgrades in 2026.
2. Size of Your Kitchen
More doors + more drawer fronts = higher cost.
Homes in Chapel Hill, especially in neighborhoods like Meadowmont, Southern Village, and Lake Hogan Farms, tend to have:
- Larger kitchens
- More custom cabinet sections
- Extra pantries or kitchen islands
All of these add to the final price.
3. Hardware Upgrades
Upgrading hardware can raise your final cost by $200–$800, depending on what you choose.
Popular local trends include:
- Matte black or brushed gold pulls
- Soft-close hinges
- Hidden Euro-style hinges
- Minimalist bar pulls
These upgrades bring a modern look without major cost increases.
Call us today for expert cabinet refinishing services in Chapel Hill.
4. Additional Repairs or Modifications
Sometimes cabinet boxes need minor repairs before they can be refaced. Common add-ons include:
- Fixing water-damaged sink base cabinets
- Reinforcing shelves
- Replacing drawer slides
- Adding soft-close mechanisms
- Modifying cabinets to fit new appliances
These upgrades can add $150–$1,200 depending on the complexity.
Cabinet Refacing vs Cabinet Replacing: Which Is Better?
If you’re unsure whether refacing is the best option, here’s a side-by-side cost comparison:
| Feature | Refacing | Replacement |
| Cost | $4,200–$12,500 | $12,000–$30,000+ |
| Time Required | 3–6 days | 3–6 weeks |
| Disruption | Very low | High |
| Keeps Layout? | Yes | May change layout |
| Value Increase | Excellent ROI | High ROI, but higher cost |
For most homeowners, refacing provides the best balance of beauty, speed, and cost-efficiency.
Why Chapel Hill Homeowners Prefer Cabinet Refacing
Chapel Hill’s real estate market continues to grow, and homeowners want upgrades that boost value without overspending. Cabinet refacing does exactly that.
Local benefits include:
✔ Works well with existing custom cabinetry
✔ Ideal for older homes with solid wood cabinet boxes
✔ Adds major visual impact before listing a home for sale
✔ Higher ROI compared to full replacement
✔ Fast turnaround with minimal dust and disruption
For homeowners in Chapel Hill and surrounding Triangle areas, it’s one of the most popular remodeling choices in 2026.
How to Estimate Your Own Cabinet Refacing Cost

To calculate your own estimate, ask yourself:
- How many cabinet doors and drawers do I have?
- Do I want laminate, veneer, or solid wood?
- Do I want new hardware or soft-close upgrades?
- Do I need modifications to fit new appliances?
- Is my kitchen small, medium, or large?
If you can answer these questions, a contractor like Wallscapers can give you a fast, accurate quote.
How Wallscapers Delivers High-Quality Cabinet Refacing in Chapel Hill, NC
Wallscapers specializes in cabinet refacing, refinishing, painting, and full kitchen upgrades across Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Durham, and the surrounding areas.
When you hire Wallscapers, you get:
- Expert craftsmanship
- Premium materials
- Transparent pricing
- Clean, efficient processes
- 5-star customer service
They handle everything from material selection to final installation, ensuring your kitchen looks brand-new without the cost of a full remodel.
Is Cabinet Refacing Worth the Cost?
For most homeowners, yes, especially in Chapel Hill, where home values are rising and modernized kitchens sell quickly.
Cabinet refacing gives you:
- A completely updated kitchen look
- Higher home value
- A modern aesthetic
- Increased functionality with new hardware
- A faster, budget-friendly renovation
It’s one of the highest ROI improvements you can make for the cost.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of cabinet refacing in Chapel Hill, NC helps you make an informed decision about your kitchen renovation. With average prices ranging from $4,200 to $12,500, it’s a cost-effective way to transform your kitchen without a full remodel. For homeowners seeking luxury results, improved home value, and fast turnaround times, cabinet refacing is an excellent choice.
For expert craftsmanship and transparent pricing, Wallscapers is one of the most trusted names in the area.
FAQs About Cabinet Refacing in Chapel Hill, NC
Is cabinet refacing cheaper than replacing cabinets?
Yes. Refacing usually costs 50–70% less than full cabinet replacement while giving your kitchen the same “brand-new” look.
How long does cabinet refacing take?
Most projects take 3 to 6 days, depending on kitchen size and material choice.
Can I change the color and style of my cabinets during refacing?
Absolutely, you can choose new colors, door styles, hardware, and finishes to completely change the kitchen’s appearance.
Does cabinet refacing add value to my home?
Yes. It improves kitchen appeal, increases buyer interest, and offers one of the highest ROI upgrades you can make before selling.
Will refacing work if my cabinet boxes are damaged?
Minor damage can be repaired, but severely damaged or low-quality boxes may require partial replacement. Wallscapers can inspect and advise you.