HGTV Star Mike Holmes Says To Do One Thing Before Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

If your cabinets are damaged or dated, Mike Holmes has some tips to consider before tearing them out. Although it might be tempting to start from scratch, replacing them can be a pricey process. Host of several HGTV shows, including "Holmes on Holmes," Mike Holmes is an expert in home maintenance and repairs. Not only can his advice save you money, but it can also help you curate a space that works for your lifestyle.

Holmes told HGTV Canada that you should always think ahead when it comes to selecting your new cabinetry. In other words, try to complement your future kitchen rather than your existing space. "Before you replace the cabinetry, think about what other pieces will need to be swapped out in the next five or 10 years," he shared. "Think long-term and make sure that your new cabinets will match any updated appliances or countertops in the future." When it comes to kitchen cabinets, you should definitely follow his tips and tricks for a seamless home renovation.

Although you might be tired of the way your cabinets look, there are a few alternatives to consider before replacing them altogether. Two techniques Holmes recommends are painting and refacing your cabinet doors and drawers. "Painting your cabinets freshens up the existing look of your kitchen cabinetry, while refacing them gives it a new look almost entirely," he explained to HGTV Canada. "Either way, both choices give you a less expensive option in lieu of doing a full replacement, which is great for any homeowner on a budget." For a highly-rated finish, consider the all-in-one cabinet paint by Heirloom Traditions. Just keep in mind that colorful painted cabinets are often a designer's dream or worst nightmare.

If you're intent on doing a full remodel, you can find cheap kitchen cabinets in plenty of places. But before you throw yours away, Holmes has a more eco-friendly solution. Because of the high cost of replacing cabinets, your fellow homeowners may be looking for a secondhand option. "Now, if you decide to replace your cabinets, but they're still in decent shape, donate them to the Habitat ReStore," Holmes told HGTV Canada. Another clever idea is to repurpose your kitchen cabinets as a built-in storage unit, bookcase, or sideboard.