If you live in an older home, your kitchen is likely out of date. It can get in the way of fully enjoying your space and making all the meals you’d like. Fortunately, there are many ways to bring an old kitchen back to life. This article will explore a few suggestions for updating your kitchen.

Painting or Repainting Cabinets

If your cabinets aren't too old or falling apart, one of the more cost-effective ways to bring them back to life is using paint and primer. Cabinet doors are easily removed (usually with a screwdriver). Latex paint tends to be more user-friendly as it is easier to clean up. It also dries much more quickly than oil-based paint. If the cabinets need to be sanded or stripped before they can be repainted, keep in mind that this is a time-intensive process that requires a level of skill. Consider hiring a service to do this if your budget allows. Changing the handles, hinges, and other hardware also helps give cabinets a new fresh look.

Cabinet Refacing

Refacing cabinets is a very effective way to renew and refresh your kitchen design. But unlike painting, this process will require the skills of an experienced professional. Cabinet refacing involves either stripping or sanding the cabinet surface, and applying a new surface, commonly called a veneer, to the freshly prepared surface. In cases where the original surface remains in good condition, the new veneer can be applied directly over the existing surface.

Additionally, drawer faces and door faces are removed and replaced as well. And as with painting, hardware can be (and generally is) changed and updated. The homeowner chooses which veneer works best with his or her tastes, and with the layout of the kitchen. Once the job is completed, the cabinets appear to look new again. This option is more expensive than repainting the cabinets, so proper research, and consultation with professionals is necessary to ensure cabinet refacing fits into the budget.

Appliance Replacement

If your kitchen is out of date, it’s likely that your appliances are as well. Because of this you might want to consider replacing them. If this isn’t in your budget, then repairs can make a difference too. Washer and dryer repair services can also handle kitchen appliances. You can schedule them to inspect your appliances and make any upgrades that will improve their functionality.

These are just a few of the ways you can improve your outdated kitchen. Schedule a meeting with a contractor or interior designer for more ideas.