Can You Change Kitchen Cabinets But Keep The Countertop?

Removing and Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

If you’re looking to completely remove the kitchen cabinets and install something new, here are some easy to follow instructions. After this, we’ll discuss how you can resurface cabinets if you’re looking for a quick and easy redesign.

Step 1

Start by unscrewing all of the installation screws that are keeping the cabinets attached to the walls. If the cabinets were put in before the floors, you might not be able to remove them completely.

If you’re working with a toe base that was built-in rather than being a separate piece, you’ll have to get rid of the boxes. After you’ve removed the screws, you can move onto step number two.

Step 2

Next, you’ll need to cut around the plumbing of the sink. Use a saber saw or a salzsaw to get the job done. The cut has to be big enough for the whole cabinet to slide past the sink.

If you’re looking for an alternative to cutting the back of the cabinet around the plumbing, you’re in luck. You can knock the back off of the cabinet’s sides and remove it later, leaving it in place until then.

Step 3

For the third step, you’ll be removing the cabinet parts from underneath the counter cut. After you get this done, you can assemble 2″ by 4″ studs. These are used to prop the countertop in place while you work on changing the rest of the cabinets.

Step 4

Step 5

Whether you bought new cabinets from Home Depot or you’re making them from scratch, it’s crucial to have the proper measurements. As you begin to install the cupboards, you’ll remove the props as you go.

Don’t shy away from cutting down cupboards to have them fit properly. You can always put in a toe base that can close out the cabinets on the bottom.

Something to Note

Changing the kitchen cabinets while keeping the countertops isn’t as daunting as it seems. It does take a bit more patience and critical thinking. Some situations allow homeowners to remove massive sections at once, while others require a piece by piece removal.

Your main focus when doing this home renovation is that the countertops are supported. The last thing you want is to have to replace something you intended to keep.

Resurfacing Kitchen Cabinets

Tools Needed

Materials Needed

Step 1

The first thing you want to do is evaluate the cabinets you’re working with. This will help you decide whether or not to resurface or replace them. When evaluating your cabinets, here’s what you should be looking for:

If any of these things are lacking, it may be better to replace the unit entirely. It can even save you money and last longer in your kitchen.

Step 2

The next thing you should do is prepare to work on the cabinets. This means ordering any hardware and materials you may need. You’ll also want to remove anything that is in the drawers or cupboards and store them in another location.

Remove all hardware and take off the doors, drawers, and drawer fronts. Before moving onto the next step, make sure you have the proper safety gear such as gloves and goggles.

Step 3

Clean the sides and faces of the cabinets using a cleaner that can remove grease and oil. Let it dry completely before moving forward. Then, take medium-grit sandpaper and scuff all exposed areas.

Step 4

Wipe down all surfaces with a tack cloth to get off any excess dust from sanding. Then you’ll want to measure and cut plywood panels to fit the exposed ends of the cabinets. Do this by applying carpenter glue and press the pieces into place.

To secure the panels, use finishing nails. Next, fill in any leftover holes with wood filler and allow it to dry. Simply sand down until smooth, and you’re ready for the next step.

Step 5

The fifth step involves measuring all of the rails and stiles before taking record of the measurements. Then you’ll cut veneer strips according to the measurements previously noted.

Always apply veneer with the stiles and allow it to overhang slightly. Peel one corner back and press it firmly into place. Repeat this process until the entire surface is covered, using a utility knife to trim the excess once finished.

Step 6

Prepare the doors and drawers by cleaning them and allowing them to dry thoroughly. Then you’ll need to sand the surfaces and wipe them down with a tack cloth. You can apply a stain to match the new veneer using a paintbrush.

Step 7

Apply a protective coating by using a water-based polyurethane. This will dry fast and doesn’t have a chemical-like odor when applied. Brush in the direction of the wood grain and sand after it dries.

Wipe down the surface after sanding and repeat this process two more times or until you have the desired look.

Step 8

Reassemble all of the cabinets and ensure that all the doors are facing the same direction. After this, you can add hardware such as drawer pulls and cabinet knobs.

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