COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS

If you're not satisfied with your current cabinet doors and drawer fronts, a full cabinet replacement can completely transform your kitchen. While this is a highly effective way to achieve a fresh, modern look, it does require a significant investment of both time and money—especially if you opt for high-end materials and finishes. Many companies offer new cabinet options along with installation services. However, it's important to plan for the timeline: a full cabinet replacement can take three weeks or more to complete. The benefit, of course, is that everything will be brand new, but understanding the differences in cabinet quality is crucial before making a decision. Most modern cabinets are modular, meaning each cabinet box is built separately. This differs from older, often custom-built cabinets, which were constructed as continuous, non-modular units. Cabinet materials vary widely, and so does their durability. Higher-end cabinets are typically constructed from plywood with wood veneer finishes, and feature solid wood doors. Mid-range options often use a mix of plywood, MDF, and solid wood components. At the lower end of the spectrum, cabinets are usually made from particle board with a thin veneer. These cheaper versions may look good initially but tend to degrade quickly, often needing replacement within 5 to 10 years. When choosing new cabinets, it's important to consider not just appearance and cost, but also the materials used and how long you expect them to last.

There are several options to consider when updating your kitchen cabinets, and the best choice often depends on what you want the final result to achieve. Your options typically include painting, staining, refacing, or installing entirely new cabinets. Each comes with its own set of pros and cons, as well as varying costs. Depending on your goals and the look or functionality you're after, it may be well worth the investment to have the job done professionally and correctly.

Cabinet refacing is an affordable and efficient way to give your kitchen a completely new look—without removing your existing cabinet boxes. New cabinets can be very expensive, and surprisingly, they’re often not built with the same level of craftsmanship as older ones. With the exception of fully custom cabinets, most modern options are modular in design. While there’s nothing inherently wrong with modular cabinets, many older cabinets are constructed to a standard that rivals or even exceeds custom quality. Upgrading to lower-quality new cabinets may not be much of an improvement at all—this is why cabinet refacing often makes more sense. If your cabinet boxes are still in good condition, the smartest approach is to simply update the doors and drawer fronts. By replacing those elements and applying a matching veneer to the exposed surfaces of the cabinet boxes, you can achieve a dramatically updated look without the need for a full replacement. The results can be impressive—many people are surprised by just how transformative refacing can be. Refacing isn’t limited to cosmetic changes either. It can also include adding or removing cabinets, modifying cabinet layouts, and even increasing cabinet height. Best of all, the process takes a fraction of the time compared to a full cabinet replacement. While replacing cabinets can take three to four weeks, refacing can often be completed in just a few days, depending on the size of the kitchen.

Painting your cabinets—whether you choose to do it yourself or hire a professional—can be a great way to refresh your kitchen. However, if you're taking the DIY route, it's important to ensure the job is done correctly. A poor paint job can lead to disappointing results and wasted time, ultimately requiring professional help to fix mistakes. For many homeowners, hiring a professional from the start may be the more efficient and satisfying option. If you're not looking to change the style of your kitchen but simply want a new color, painting can be a cost-effective solution. The process typically involves sanding all cabinet doors, drawer fronts, and boxes, followed by priming and painting. Achieving a smooth, even finish often requires multiple coats of paint. Here are some key considerations when deciding whether to paint your kitchen cabinets: The original cabinet design will remain the same; only the color will change. Hinges will stay as-is, so if you're aiming to update hardware, painting alone may not be enough. New handles can be added, but it's important to check that they fit the existing holes. Wood grain is difficult to conceal with paint—if you prefer a completely smooth finish, painting may not achieve the look you want. Paint won’t hide existing defects in the cabinets. Over time, painted surfaces can chip, flake, and attract grease, requiring maintenance. Painting is a viable and budget-friendly way to give your kitchen a fresh look, but it’s not a permanent fix. For a long-lasting transformation, other renovation options may be worth considering.

Staining your cabinets—whether you do it yourself or hire a professional—can be a great way to refresh your kitchen's appearance. If you choose the DIY route, it's essential to do the job correctly; otherwise, you may end up disappointed with the results and have to spend additional time and money hiring someone to fix your mistakes. Compared to painting, staining is far less forgiving, making professional help a smart choice for many homeowners. If you're not looking to change the style of your kitchen but simply want a new tone or color, staining can be a cost-effective option. The process involves sanding all doors, drawer fronts, and cabinet boxes. However, this step can be tricky depending on the construction of your cabinets. Many modern cabinets are made from veneer-covered plywood, MDF, or particle board—not solid wood—so excessive sanding can damage the thin veneer layer. Here are some important things to consider when staining your kitchen cabinets: The original cabinet design remains unchanged—only the color will differ. Hinges will stay the same, so if you want a different style, staining won’t address that. You can upgrade your cabinet handles, but you’ll need to ensure the new ones fit the existing holes. Staining won't hide defects in the wood; in fact, it may highlight imperfections even more. Stained finishes generally require less maintenance than paint but still need occasional touch-ups over time. While staining is a great option for updating your kitchen without a full renovation, it’s not a permanent fix. The results can be beautiful, but success depends heavily on the materials you're working with and the quality of the application.

When we think about our homes, it’s worth considering where we truly spend most of our meaningful time. While we spend many hours in our bedrooms, much of that time is spent sleeping. The living room is another common gathering place for watching TV and relaxing. But the kitchen—more often than not—is the heart of the home. The kitchen is where we interact most: it’s where meals are prepared, important conversations happen, and family game nights take place. It’s a space filled with activity, connection, and creativity. Given how central the kitchen is to daily life, why wouldn’t we want it to be one of the most beautiful and functional areas in our home? Beyond everyday enjoyment, an updated kitchen also adds significant value when it comes time to sell. An old, outdated kitchen can hold you back in a competitive housing market. On the other hand, a modern, well-designed kitchen can set your home apart from others and give you a valuable edge when attracting buyers.

When it comes to updating your kitchen cabinets, there are a few different routes you can take. You can do the work yourself, hire someone like Joe Buck and his pickup truck, or bring in a professional contractor. Each option has its pros and cons. Taking the DIY approach can be rewarding, but it’s also time-consuming and often more complicated than it looks. Unless you have experience, you might find yourself overwhelmed—and eventually calling in a pro to fix what you started. Hiring a handyman who does this kind of work on the side can be more affordable. But unless you know the person and have seen their previous work, you’re taking a gamble. It’s kind of like asking your hair stylist for therapy—sure, they’re good at listening, but that doesn’t make them a licensed professional. Hiring a professional contractor may cost more upfront, but it often pays off in the long run. Like with any service, prices and quality vary, so it’s important to do your research before committing. Peace of mind, knowing your kitchen is done right, is worth the investment—especially since the kitchen is often the heart of the home. Cutting corners here is usually a decision you’ll regret.

Knowing when it’s time to update your deck comes down to a combination of visual signs, structural integrity, and how well it meets your current needs. Here are some key indicators that it may be time for an upgrade: 1. Visible Damage or Rot: If you notice soft spots, splintering, or visible wood rot—especially on support posts, beams, or joists—it’s a strong sign your deck needs attention. These issues can compromise safety and should be addressed immediately. 2. Loose or Rusted Fasteners: Check for nails, screws, or brackets that are rusted, missing, or no longer holding tightly. Loose connections can indicate that the structure is weakening. 3. Wobbly Railings or Stairs: Railings and stairs that feel unsteady or shift when used are a serious safety concern and may signal that repairs or a full replacement are needed. 4. Boards Are Warped, Cracked, or Splitting: Deck boards that are twisting, bowing, or cracking not only look unsightly but can also become hazardous. 5. Poor Drainage or Mold Growth: If water pools on your deck or you notice mold, mildew, or green algae, the deck materials may be deteriorating and contributing to structural damage. 6. High Maintenance and Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself constantly patching boards, sanding, or staining, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a long-term solution like resurfacing or upgrading to composite decking. 7. Outdated Appearance or Layout: Sometimes the issue isn’t structural—it’s aesthetic. If your deck no longer fits your style, space needs, or how you entertain, it might be time for a refresh. Regular inspections—especially after winter or heavy storms—can help you catch these signs early. If you're unsure, a professional deck inspection can offer peace of mind and guidance on whether repair, resurfacing, or replacement is your best option.

Resurfacing a deck involves several cost components that can vary depending on the size of the deck, its current condition, and the materials you choose. One of the largest expenses is the decking material itself. Options include pressure-treated wood, cedar, composite, or PVC, each with its own price range. You’ll also need fasteners, which can range from standard screws to hidden fastening systems. Other materials like flashing and joist tape are often used to protect the frame from moisture and extend its lifespan. Trim or fascia boards may also be added to give the deck a clean, finished look. Labor costs are another key factor. These include removing the old decking, disposing of debris, and installing new boards. The complexity of the project and regional labor rates will influence the final labor charge. If the deck's frame is in poor condition, you might also need to pay for repairs such as reinforcing joists or replacing damaged beams. In some cases, footings or posts may need to be rebuilt, which can significantly add to the cost. Depending on your local building regulations, permit fees may also apply, particularly if structural changes are being made during the resurfacing process. Additionally, there may be disposal fees associated with removing and hauling away the old decking materials. Although not required, homeowners often consider optional upgrades during resurfacing projects, such as new railings, lighting, or built-in seating. While these features can enhance the deck’s functionality and appearance, they do increase the overall cost. Let me know if you’d like a customized estimate based on your deck’s size and the materials you're considering.

Decks can be built using a variety of materials, each with its own pros and cons in terms of cost, durability, maintenance, and appearance. Here are the most common decking materials: 1. Pressure-Treated Wood Description: The most common and affordable decking material, treated to resist rot, insects, and moisture. Pros: Inexpensive, easy to work with, widely available. Cons: Requires regular maintenance (sealing/staining), can warp or crack over time. 2. Cedar and Redwood Description: Naturally resistant to decay and insects without chemical treatment. Pros: Attractive, natural color and grain, moderately durable. Cons: Softer wood that can dent or scratch; requires sealing and maintenance to last. 3. Composite Decking Description: Made from a blend of recycled wood fibers and plastic. Pros: Low maintenance, resists rot, fading, and insects; long-lasting. Cons: More expensive upfront; can get hot in direct sunlight; not as natural in appearance. 4. PVC (Plastic) Decking Description: 100% synthetic material, not blended with wood. Pros: Extremely low maintenance, waterproof, resists fading and staining. Cons: Highest cost among decking options; can feel less sturdy or "plastic-like." 5. Tropical Hardwoods (e.g., Ipe, Mahogany, Tigerwood) Description: Dense, exotic hardwoods known for strength and durability. Pros: Very long-lasting, rich color, high resistance to rot and insects. Cons: Expensive, heavy, can be difficult to cut or drill; requires special fasteners and tools. 6. Aluminum Decking Description: Less common but incredibly durable and lightweight material. Pros: Fireproof, weather-resistant, low maintenance, long lifespan. Cons: Very expensive, industrial look may not appeal to all homeowners. Each material comes with trade-offs, so the best choice depends on your budget, climate, desired maintenance level, and aesthetic preferences. Let me know if you'd like help comparing materials for your specific project or location.

Yes, you can reuse your existing deck frame—but only if it meets certain conditions. Before resurfacing or upgrading your deck, it’s important to ensure that the underlying structure is safe, sound, and up to current building codes. If the wood is structurally solid with no signs of rot, mold, or termite damage, and if the joists and beams are properly spaced and level, the frame may be suitable for reuse. It’s also crucial that the ledger board is securely fastened to the house and properly flashed to prevent water damage. Frames that were originally built to code and have well-maintained fasteners can often support new decking materials, especially if no major changes are planned. However, there are situations where reusing the frame is not recommended. If the framing wood is rotting, splitting, or compromised by water damage or insects, it should be replaced. Older decks—especially those built more than 15 to 20 years ago—may not meet modern code requirements or have weakened structural integrity. Also, if you're planning to install heavier materials like composite or hardwood decking, the existing joist spacing might be insufficient. Wobbly posts, sinking footings, or the desire to redesign the layout are also signs that a new frame might be necessary. To be sure, it's a good idea to have a professional contractor inspect your deck frame. They can identify whether it meets current standards and recommend reinforcements if needed. In many cases, a solid existing frame can save you time and money, but safety and long-term performance should always come first.

When renewing your deck, you have several options depending on its condition and your goals. For decks that are structurally sound but showing signs of wear, basic maintenance like power washing, sanding, and resealing can refresh the appearance and provide added protection. If the surface boards are worn or damaged but the frame is still in good shape, replacing just the decking boards with new wood or composite materials can give your deck a fresh look and improved durability. In cases where the framing is aged or compromised, you may need to reframe and install new decking, which provides a more secure and long-lasting structure. Upgrading to composite decking is another popular option that offers a low-maintenance, weather-resistant solution with a modern finish. You can also enhance safety and aesthetics by replacing old railings and stairs with updated materials such as wood, aluminum, or cable. For decks that are severely deteriorated or outdated, a full replacement allows for a complete redesign and the opportunity to use higher-quality, longer-lasting materials. Each option varies in complexity and investment, so it’s important to choose the solution that best fits your deck’s condition and your long-term plans.

At Residential Reface, we've partnered with Enhancify to provide you with some of the most competitive financing options available for your next remodeling project. Enhancify works by connecting you with a network of lenders, allowing them to shop around for the best terms and rates on your behalf. This means you get access to flexible financing solutions designed to maximize value and minimize cost—giving you the best bang for your buck. Other Options Include; Home Equity Loan What it is: A lump-sum loan based on the equity in your home. Pros: Fixed interest rate, predictable monthly payments, tax-deductible interest (in many cases). Best for: Larger remodeling projects with a defined budget. Home Equity Line of Credit (HELOC) What it is: A revolving line of credit based on your home’s equity, similar to a credit card. Pros: Borrow as needed, interest-only payments during the draw period, flexibility. Best for: Ongoing or phased remodeling projects. Cash-Out Refinance What it is: Replaces your existing mortgage with a new one for a larger amount, and you take the difference in cash. Pros: Often offers lower interest rates than personal loans or credit cards. Best for: Homeowners who can benefit from refinancing their mortgage while also funding renovations. Personal Loan What it is: An unsecured loan with fixed monthly payments. Pros: No need for home equity, faster approval process. Cons: Higher interest rates, especially with lower credit scores. Best for: Smaller projects or homeowners with limited equity. Credit Cards What it is: Unsecured revolving credit. Pros: Good for very small projects or emergency expenses; some offer 0% intro APR. Cons: High interest if not paid off quickly. Best for: Minor upgrades or short-term financing needs. FHA 203(k) Renovation Loan What it is: A government-backed mortgage for buying or refinancing a home that needs renovation. Pros: Ideal for fixer-uppers; combines home purchase and remodeling costs into one loan. Best for: Buyers purchasing a home that needs work, or current owners with limited equity.

You can schedule a free consultation by contacting us via phone at 763-381-9698 or through email at residentialreface@gmail.com. We will work with you to find a convenient time for your consultation.

We’ll schedule a convenient appointment to visit your home and learn more about the project you’re looking to complete. During the consultation, we’ll walk you through the various options and solutions we offer, helping you understand what can be done with your space. Our goal is to educate you so you can make an informed decision. If your project falls outside our scope, we’ll gladly refer you to a trusted professional who can help. We’ll also take all necessary measurements and provide a clear overview of the process, timeline, and what the project will involve. At the end of the visit, you’ll receive a detailed idea of the expected cost. Our approach is low-pressure—we’re here to guide, not to sell. To ensure everything runs smoothly and efficiently, we ask that all decision-makers be present during the consultation. This helps address any questions upfront and ensures everyone is on the same page.