The Real Cost of a Kitchen Renovation vs. Cabinet Refinishing

(And Why You Might Only Need a Fraction of the Budget)

Let’s talk numbers—because when it comes to updating your kitchen, the difference between a full renovation and cabinet refinishing is not small change.

Many homeowners are shocked to learn just how expensive a full remodel can be—and even more surprised to find out how far their budget can stretch when they don’t tear everything out.

At SwiftCoat, we specialize in high-impact transformations that don’t require gutting your kitchen. So let’s break it down:

Average Cost of a Full Kitchen Renovation

A complete kitchen remodel typically includes:

• Demolition

• New custom or semi-custom cabinets

• Countertops

• Backsplash

• Plumbing and electrical updates

• Flooring

• Paint, hardware, and appliances

The total?

Anywhere from $25,000 to $75,000+, depending on size and finishes.

That number doesn’t just hit your wallet—it can also hit your lifestyle. Full kitchen remodels take 6–12 weeks on average, which means eating out, living in construction dust, and losing access to your kitchen for way too long.

Now Let’s Talk Cabinet Refinishing

If your cabinets are in good shape structurally and you like your kitchen layout, refinishing is the smarter option.

At SwiftCoat, we:

• Degrease, sand, and prime every surface

• Use spray application (no brushes, no streaks)

• Apply a durable, professional-grade finish

• Complete the entire job in just 2 days

• Save you thousands

The total?

Most refinishing projects cost between $3,000 and $7,000, depending on kitchen size and upgrades like two-tone color or new hardware.

That’s up to 80% less than a renovation—and you still get a stunning, showroom-quality result.

When Is Renovation the Right Choice?

We’re not saying refinishing is always the answer. If your cabinet boxes are damaged, if your layout needs reconfiguring, or if you’re already replacing your floors, a full remodel may make sense.

But if your cabinets just look tired or dated—refinishing gives you the upgrade without the chaos.

Final Thoughts: Save the Cabinets. Save the Cash.

Kitchen renovations are big investments. Cabinet refinishing? That’s a smart upgrade.

✅ Less money
✅ Less mess
✅ Less downtime
✅ Same "WOW" factor

Ready to see if refinishing is the right move for your kitchen?