How do refaced cabinets look compared to new cabinets?

If done correctly it is very hard to see any difference between the two (on the exterior). Though the interior of your cabinets may give it away. The main thing to keep in mind is how much you would save in having both done. If you have no plans on adjusting any sizes of your cabinets such as making the cabinet above your old exhaust fan now small enough to install a microwave instead. Or changing your fridge cabinet. Or adding 1/4" ply to the unders of the wall cabinets if needed. then you can probably save between 25% to 40% on refacing the existing cabinets compared to new cabinets. Of course this depends on who your getting your estimates from. My prices are probably about 30% savings with no changes on existing cabinets. Again the more you change the existing cabinets the less you'll save between the two. Also keep in mind, both new cabinets and refacing cabinets can both be done in mica, thermofoil, and wood veneer. and any type of door and drawer front can be used. Such as flat, raised panel, shaker, etc. with mdf doors to solid wood doors.The type of hinges that are available today, such as the Blum compact 33 series are made for these type of applications and make it easier to get the doors as close as 1/4" between the hinges to give you that European look on those frame cabinets. Just make sure when contracting someone to reface your cabinets, that they are experienced in such things as prepping the the existing surface as in sanding so as for the contact cement to adhere correctly. Good Luck in your decision. And as always get three estimates. ( both ways.).......................

Stewart M Jacobsen.........................................  http://www.jacobsenkitchens.com

1717 S.W 1st Way #13, Deerfield Beach Florida . 33441...Phone:.954-426-6467.. jacobsenkitchens@gmail.com  ........... Website: http://www.jacobsenkitchens.com