Is it cheaper to paint my kitchen cabinets or replace them entirely?

Painting your existing kitchen cabinets will almost always be significantly cheaper than full replacement — typically costing $3,000-$8,000 versus $15,000-$40,000+ for new cabinets in New Brunswick homes.

Cabinet painting costs in New Brunswick typically run $40-$80 per door and drawer face when done professionally, or $3,000-$8,000 for an average kitchen. This includes thorough cleaning, sanding, priming, and two coats of high-quality paint. DIY painting can reduce costs to $500-$1,500 in materials, but achieving a smooth, durable finish requires significant time and skill — expect to invest 40-60 hours over multiple weekends.

The decision often comes down to your cabinet boxes' condition and your timeline. If your existing cabinets have solid wood or plywood construction (common in New Brunswick homes built before 1990), painting can give you 8-12 more years of life. However, if you're dealing with particle board boxes that are sagging, have water damage, or the door hinges are failing, replacement makes more sense long-term.

Full cabinet replacement in New Brunswick ranges from $15,000-$40,000+ depending on materials and complexity. Stock cabinets from big box stores start around $150-$300 per linear foot installed, while custom millwork can reach $800+ per linear foot. Many New Brunswick cabinet shops offer semi-custom options in the $400-$600 per linear foot range — a good middle ground for quality and value.

Consider your home's age when making this decision. In older New Brunswick homes (pre-1970s), existing cabinets may not be standard sizes, making replacement more expensive due to custom work or kitchen layout changes. Painting preserves the existing footprint while updating the look.

Professional painting takes 3-5 days including drying time, while cabinet replacement typically requires 2-3 weeks from ordering to completion. If you're planning other kitchen updates (countertops, flooring, appliances), replacement might make sense to coordinate everything at once.

For the best results with either option, browse verified cabinet painters and kitchen contractors in our New Brunswick directory to get accurate quotes based on your specific kitchen layout and goals.