Computed decision comparison
Refinish vs replace cabinets cost
The modeled upfront totals are $29,952 for Cabinet refinish scope proxy and $39,149 for Cabinet replacement scope proxy, a difference of $9,197.
The baseline store has no cabinet-only record. This transparent proxy applies the existing economy and premium material selectors to the same one-kitchen remodel model rather than inventing cabinet rates.
Side-by-side upfront cost
| Measure | Cabinet refinish scope proxy | Cabinet replacement scope proxy |
|---|---|---|
| Materials | $16,395 | $25,592 |
| Labor | $11,457 | $11,457 |
| Permits | $900 | $900 |
| Disposal | $1,200 | $1,200 |
| Planning range | $20,966–$48,222 | $27,404–$63,029 |
| Typical upfront total | $29,952 | $39,149 |
Cabinet refinish scope proxy derivation: One-kitchen baseline with existing economy material factor. Cabinet replacement scope proxy derivation: One-kitchen baseline with existing premium material factor.
Upfront, 10-year, and 20-year totals
| Horizon | Cabinet refinish scope proxy | Cabinet replacement scope proxy |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront | $29,952 | $39,149 |
| 10 years | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan |
| 20 years | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan | Not modeled: no sourced lifespan |
When each model aligns with the decision
| Decision priority | Model comparison | Aligned option |
|---|---|---|
| Lower modeled upfront total | Difference $9,197 | Cabinet refinish scope proxy |
| Lower labor share | 38.3% vs 29.3% | Cabinet replacement scope proxy |
| Narrower published range | 2.30× vs 2.30× | Cabinet refinish scope proxy |
This table compares model properties; it does not recommend a material, system, repair, or replacement.
Open the underlying calculators
Comparison questions
Which option has the lower modeled upfront cost?
Cabinet refinish scope proxy is lower in the current static default by $9,197. This compares model records, not contractor proposals.
Are 10-year and 20-year replacement costs included?
No sourced lifespan field exists in the shared baseline store, so the site does not invent replacement cycles. Those horizon cells remain explicitly not modeled.
Do both options use the same source system?
Yes. Both are computed from the current baseline store and index snapshots. Any proxy, quantity normalization, or retained legacy factor is disclosed beside the option.