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Kitchen Cabinets

Why Updated Kitchen Cabinets Are A Must-Have

  1. The Risks of Old Cabinets
  2. Signs It's Time to Upgrade Your Cabinet
  3. Benefits of Upgrading Your Cabinets

 

Upgrading kitchen cabinets can significantly enhance not only the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen but also its functionality and safety.

An outdated kitchen is unsafe, energy-inefficient, and devaluing to your home.

Fortunately, upgrading your kitchen cabinets is a simple yet effective home improvement project that can significantly enhance the functionality of your kitchen.

By redoing kitchen cabinets, you can enhance your home's value, safety, and functionality.

image showing an happy senior in their kitchen with their nephew

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The Risks of Old Cabinets

As we age, the safety of our homes becomes increasingly important.

Unfortunately, old kitchen cabinets can pose significant safety risks to seniors and their families.

Here are some of the dangers associated with outdated cabinets…

Safety Hazards

Safety hazards associated with old kitchen cabinets and drawer fronts can be a serious concern to homeowners.

Here are some of the most common risks to be aware of:

  • Loose or broken hinges: Cabinets with loose or broken hinges can be unstable and potentially fall off the wall, causing injury or damage.

In fact, the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimates that approximately 12,000 people are injured by falling cabinets each year.

  • Damaged handles: Handles that are loose or broken can be a safety hazard, especially if they are sharp or protruding. They can also make it difficult to open and close cabinets, which can increase the risk of falls or injuries.

  • Loose doors: Doors that are loose or broken can fall off the cabinet and cause injury or damage. They can also make it difficult to access items in the cabinet, which can increase the risk of falls or injuries.

  • Toxic materials: Older cabinets may contain materials such as lead paint, which can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.

image showing someone repainting cabinets

study by the Environmental Defense Fund found that 20% of homes built before 1960 still contain lead-based paint.

Even just painting cabinets can make a big change and enhance safety in your kitchen. By choosing the correct paint color you can make it feel larger and more open. 

  • Lack of accessibility: Cabinets that are difficult to access can increase the risk of falls or injuries. For example, cabinets that are too high or too low can cause strain on the back, neck, and shoulders.

  • Fire hazards: Cabinets made from flammable materials, such as particleboard, can increase the risk of fire in the home.

According to the National Fire Protection Association: cooking equipment is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries.

 

Decreased Home Value

Outdated kitchen cabinets can also have a negative impact on the value of your home, which can be a concern if you are considering selling your home in the future.

How?

  • Outdated design: Old cabinets may have a design that is no longer in style or popular with potential buyers.

image showing old peeling cabinet needing replacement

 

  • Wear and tear: Over time, cabinets can become worn and damaged, which can decrease their overall appearance and make them less functional.

  • Functionality issues: Cabinets that are difficult to open or close, have broken hardware, or are missing shelves can decrease the functionality of your kitchen.

  • Poor storage solutions: Older cabinets may not have modern storage solutions, such as pull-out drawers or adjustable shelves.

  • Lack of energy efficiency: Older cabinets may not be energy-efficient, which can increase your energy bills and decrease the value of your home.

For example, cabinets that do not have proper insulation can allow air to escape, which can make your home less energy-efficient.

It's important to address outdated cabinets to maintain the value of your home.

Redoing kitchen cabinets can not only enhance the functionality and safety of your kitchen but also increase the value of your home.

Signs It's Time to Upgrade Your Cabinets

As we've seen, outdated cabinets can pose safety risks and decrease the value of your home. Still not sure if it's time to upgrade your cabinets? Here are some signs to look out for:

  • Wear and tear: Cabinets that are chipped, scratched, or damaged can make your kitchen look outdated and decrease the value of your home.

  • Lack of storage space: If you're constantly struggling to find space for your pots, pans, and dishes, it may be time to upgrade your cabinets.

 

In this way, you can include modern storage solutions such as pull-out drawers and adjustable shelves.

  • Outdated design: If your kitchen cabinets have an old-fashioned design that is no longer in style, it may be time to upgrade to a more modern look.

  • Safety concerns: If you have loose or broken hardware on your cabinets, it's important to address these safety concerns.

 

image showing broken hinges

You can upgrade to new cabinets with secure hardware and childproof locks.

  • Decreased functionality: If your cabinets are difficult to open or close, have broken hardware, or are missing shelves, it may be time to upgrade to new cabinets that will enhance the functionality of your kitchen.

It's important to address these signs and upgrade your cabinets to maintain the safety and value of your home.

According to Remodeling Magazine, the average cost to remodel a kitchen is around $35,000, but the return on investment can be as high as 60%.

Project Avg. Cost Avg. Resale Value 1 year later % on Return
Attic bedroom $31,366 $23,232 73%
Bathroom addition $14,216 $11,704 81%
Deck $5,865 $4,498 5%
Home office $10,526 $5,723 54%
Minor Kitchen remodel $14,773 $13,039 87%
Major Kitchen remodel $38,769 $31,344 80%
Master suite $63,275 $47,699 74%

 

Upgrading your cabinets is a worthwhile investment that can enhance the functionality, safety, and value of your home.

Benefits of Upgrading Your Cabinets

Upgrading your kitchen cabinets can provide a wide range of benefits for you and your home. Here are some of the key benefits to keep in mind.

Enhanced Safety

As we've seen, old cabinets can pose safety hazards, especially for households with young children or elderly individuals. How upgrading your cabinets can enhance the safety of your kitchen:

  • Secure hardware: Upgrading your cabinets can provide you with secure hardware that will help prevent accidents and injuries.

New cabinets often come with high-quality hinges, handles, and knobs that are more durable and secure than old cabinets.

Additionally, childproof locks can be installed to prevent young children from accessing hazardous materials or sharp objects.

  • Better organization: Upgrading your cabinets can also provide you with better organization options, which can help reduce clutter and prevent accidents.

Cabinets with pull-out drawers, adjustable shelves, and other custom storage solutions can help you keep your kitchen organized and free of potential hazards.

image showing kitchen cabinet organization

  • Reduced risk of falls: Old cabinets can sometimes be difficult to open or close, which can increase the risk of falls and injuries.

New cabinets with smooth and easy-to-use hardware can reduce the risk of falls and improve overall safety in your kitchen.

  • Enhanced fire safety: Upgrading your cabinets can also enhance fire safety in your home.

Cabinets made from non-combustible materials can help prevent fires from spreading and provide additional protection for your family in the event of a fire.

Increased Home Value

Redoing kitchen cabinets can have a significant impact on the value of your home. If you invest $10,000 in a kitchen remodel, you can expect to recoup $7,220 when you sell your home.

Improving your cabinets can give your home a competitive advantage over similar homes on the market.

Tip: The cost to paint kitchen cabinets and drawer fronts is significantly lower than replacing them.

Aesthetically Pleasing Design

Upgrading your cabinets can give your kitchen a fresh, modern look that will enhance the overall aesthetics of your home. How upgrading your cabinets can improve the overall look and feel of your kitchen:

  1. Customization options: Upgraded cabinets offer a wide range of customization options, including different materials, finishes, and hardware. This means that you can tailor your cabinets to your style and preferences, creating a kitchen that reflects your unique personality and taste.

  2. Updated style: Old cabinets can quickly make a kitchen look outdated and dull. Upgrading your cabinets can provide your kitchen with an updated style that can make it feel new and fresh. This can be especially important if you're looking to sell your home, as an updated kitchen with modern cabinets can be a major selling point.

  3. Color and texture: Upgrading your cabinets can also provide you with the opportunity to add color and texture to your kitchen. Whether you prefer a bold, colorful look or a more subtle, textured design, new cabinets can provide you with the perfect canvas to express your style.

  4. Improved lighting: New cabinets can also improve the lighting in your kitchen.

kitchen cabinets lights

Upgraded cabinets often come with built-in lighting options, such as under-cabinet lighting, which can provide a warm and inviting ambiance in your kitchen.

In addition to these benefits, upgrading your cabinets can also provide you with a renewed sense of pride and enjoyment in your home.

A new, stylish kitchen with upgraded cabinets can be a source of joy and comfort for you and your family for years to come.

Improved Storage and Organization

Upgrading your cabinets can also provide you with more storage space and better organization options.

Outdated cabinets can often be poorly designed, with limited storage space and inconvenient layouts that make it difficult to keep your kitchen organized.

Modern cabinets often include features such as pull-out drawers, and adjustable shelves. Consider open shelving if you'd like to go for a modern style. These storage solutions can help you make the most of your kitchen space.

Better Functionality

Old cabinets may be difficult to open or close, have broken hardware, or be missing shelves.

New cabinets can provide you with improved functionality and ease of use.

image showing a repairman installing kitchen cabinets

 
Energy Efficiency

When it comes to upgrading your kitchen cabinets, energy efficiency may not be the first thing that comes to mind.

However, outdated cabinets can contribute to energy loss in your home, which can lead to higher energy bills and a less comfortable living environment.

Upgrading your cabinets can provide a range of benefits for improving energy efficiency in your home:

  1. Improved insulation: Upgraded cabinets often come with improved insulation, which can help prevent heat loss and air leaks in your kitchen. 
  2. Energy-efficient lighting: Upgraded cabinets often come with energy-efficient lighting options, such as LED lights, which can help reduce energy usage in your kitchen. These lights can also provide better lighting quality and reduce the need for additional lighting fixtures.
  3. Efficient appliances: Upgraded cabinets can also provide space for energy-efficient appliances, such as refrigerators, dishwashers, and ovens. These appliances can help reduce energy usage in your kitchen, leading to lower energy bills and a more eco-friendly home.
  4. Reduced environmental impact: By upgrading your cabinets to be more energy efficient, you can also reduce your environmental impact. Lower energy usage means fewer greenhouse gas emissions and a smaller carbon footprint, which can help preserve the planet for future generations.
  5. Increased home value: According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, energy efficiency is one of the most desirable features for homebuyers.

Upgrading your cabinets to be more energy-efficient can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

image showing functional cabinets

Environmental Friendliness

Upgrading your kitchen cabinets can not only improve the look and functionality of your kitchen but also contribute to a more environmentally friendly home.

Outdated cabinets can be made from materials that are harmful to the environment and contribute to the depletion of natural resources.

Upgrading your cabinets can provide a range of benefits for improving the environmental friendliness of your home.

Redo your cabinets and use sustainable materials such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, or recycled materials. These materials are renewable and have a lower environmental impact than traditional materials like particleboard or plywood.

man painting kitchen cabinets

Finish them with low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints or stains, which emit fewer harmful chemicals into the air. This can help improve indoor air quality and reduce the negative impact on the environment.

Reduce waste by including features such as recycling bins or composting stations to reduce waste in the kitchen. This can help divert organic waste from landfills, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and preserving natural resources.

Finally, increase your home value. 

According to the same report by the National Association of Realtors, homebuyers are increasingly interested in eco-friendly features when searching for a new home.

Upgrading your cabinets for environmental friendliness can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

If you are considering upgrading your cabinets for environmental friendliness, it's important to work with a professional contractor who specializes in sustainable materials and practices.

They can guide you in choosing the best materials and finishes for your cabinets and help you make informed decisions that align with your environmental values.

Improved Air Quality

Old cabinets can sometimes be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, especially if they have been exposed to moisture over time.

Upgrading to new cabinets can help improve the air quality in your home and reduce the risk of respiratory issues.

Cost-effective

Rather than investing in a full kitchen remodel, updating your cabinets can provide a significant improvement at a fraction of the cost.

It can also provide long-term savings.

New cabinets with better organization and storage options can help you save money on food waste and grocery bills by making it easier to keep track of what you have and avoid buying duplicate items.

Upgrading your kitchen cabinets can provide a wide range of benefits.

If you're considering upgrading your cabinets, it's important to work with a professional contractor and choose the right materials and design features to suit your needs.

image showing a professional kitchen contractor installing new kitchen cabinets

Conclusion

Upgrading your kitchen cabinets is a crucial step in improving the safety, functionality, and value of your home. Outdated cabinets can pose safety hazards and decrease the overall value of your home.

On the other hand, upgrading to modern and eco-friendly cabinets can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen, increase your home's resale value, and even positively impact the environment.

Don't overlook the importance of your kitchen cabinets - invest in an upgrade today.

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Related resources

Kitchen Remodel Cost Guide [2024]

Is Open Shelving In Kitchen a Good Idea?

Complete Guide to Window Repair

How Much Does a Walk in Shower Cost

Last update: 05 Jul 2024

Written by Anna

MyGreenHome editors Team is a professional team of copywriters and writes with dozens of years of experience covering consumers, financial and business products and services

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