Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How can I get an estimate?
Complete my online estimate form or text a few photos of your cabinets. I’ll typically provide a ballpark price within 24–48 hours. If the range works for you, I’ll schedule an in-person consultation to inspect the cabinets, discuss your project, and provide a firm price and formal proposal.
Q: Do you work in my area?
I provide cabinet refinishing and refacing throughout Morristown, Dandridge, Greeneville, Knoxville, Johnson City, Sevierville, and surrounding East Tennessee communities- generally within about one hour of Morristown, TN.
Q: How much does a cabinet refinishing project cost?
Cabinet refinishing projects start at $4,500, with an average of $7,500. Pricing depends on the number of doors and drawers, kitchen layout, cabinet condition, wood type, and the amount of preparation required.
Q: How much does a cabinet refacing project cost?
Cabinet refacing typically costs around 50% more than cabinet refinishing.
Q: How long does a Cabinet Refinishing job take/ what’s a typical timeline?
Most cabinet refinishing projects take approximately 8–10 business days. I refinish the doors and drawer fronts off-site at my shop while completing the cabinet boxes inside your home.
A typical project includes:
- Removing and labeling the doors and drawer fronts
- Cleaning, sanding, and preparing every surface
- Priming and spraying the doors at my shop
- Masking and containing the kitchen
- Priming and spraying the cabinet boxes on-site
- Removing the masking and cleaning the work area
- Reinstalling and adjusting the finished doors and drawer fronts
The exact timeline depends on the size and condition of your cabinets.
Q: What Cabinet Coatings do you use and why?
I use professional two-component Novalk cabinet coatings designed specifically for cabinets, millwork, and other high-use wood surfaces.
Unlike ordinary wall or trim paint, these coatings provide excellent adhesion, moisture resistance, chemical resistance, and durability. They also produce the smooth, furniture-quality sprayed finish expected from professionally refinished cabinets.
Q: What should I look for when comparing cabinet painting quotes?
When comparing cabinet refinishing contractors, look for:
- An actual cabinet door sample you can see and feel
- Genuine, positive reviews and testimonials from past customers
- A clear scope of work explaining how the cabinets will be cleaned, sanded, primed, and finished
- True professional cabinet coatings—not standard wall or trim paint
- Spray application on both the cabinet doors and boxes
- Sanding between coats for a smoother, more durable finish
- A strong written warranty covering the coating and workmanship
If these details aren’t clearly explained, consider it a red flag.
Q: Can you “paint” over stained cabinets?
Yes. Most of the cabinets I refinish were originally stained and clear-coated. With thorough cleaning, sanding, and the correct primer, stained cabinets can be painted with excellent adhesion and long-lasting durability.
Q: Do I have to empty my cabinets and drawers?
You do not need to completely empty your cabinets. Items should be moved approximately five inches back from the cabinet openings so I can properly prepare and spray the face frames.
Drawers must be completely emptied so they can be safely removed during the refinishing process.
Q: How should I prepare my kitchen for cabinet refinishing?
Before the project begins, please:
- Clear and clean the countertops
- Empty and dry the dishwasher
- Clean grease and residue from appliances
- Remove rugs, stools, pictures, furniture, and loose decorations
- Vacuum the kitchen floor
- Empty all drawers
- Move cabinet contents at least five inches back
- Turn off gas and power to the range when requested
- Maintain a temperature of at least 70°F during the project
- Move the refrigerator if you want the cabinet surfaces behind it refinished
I’ll review the preparation requirements with you before your scheduled start date.
Q: Should I replace my floors and countertops before or after cabinet refinishing?
It’s best to complete flooring, countertops, and other contracting work before refinishing your cabinets. This helps prevent other trades from damaging the freshly sprayed finish. I’ll carefully protect all new floors, countertops, and surrounding surfaces during the cabinet refinishing process.
If renovations are completed afterward, any damage caused by another contractor will not be covered under my warranty, and the homeowner will be responsible for any touch-up or repair costs.
Q: Can I replace my handles/ hinges?
Yes. New knobs, pulls, and hinges can be installed during your cabinet refinishing project. You’ll be responsible for purchasing the hardware, but I can help confirm the correct sizing before you order.
If the new hardware has different hole spacing, the existing holes must be filled and new ones drilled, which may add to the project cost. Filled holes may telegraph through the finish over time. Because this is sometimes unavoidable, telegraphing is not covered under the warranty.
Q: Do you offer a warranty?
Yes. Cabinet refinishing includes a two-year limited warranty covering coating or workmanship failures under normal household use. Cabinet refacing includes an extended five-year warranty when using one-piece HDF doors from New England Coatings.
Previously painted cabinets may have limited or excluded warranty coverage because the new finish depends on the preparation and adhesion of the existing paint underneath. Any warranty limitations will be explained before the project begins.
Q: Do you only refinish kitchen cabinets?
No. I also refinish bathroom vanities, built-ins, entertainment centers, fireplace mantels, pantry cabinets, and other painted or stained cabinetry throughout East Tennessee. I also offer cabinet refacing, which includes replacing the existing doors and drawer fronts for a more complete transformation.