A kitchen is often the center of the house. It is the place where everyone inevitably gathers for a party, where children sit and do homework after school, and where families are reunited after a busy day apart. If you’re not happy with the look of your kitchen, you may feel like you’re stuck unless you can afford a very expensive kitchen remodel. A total kitchen remodel can cost between $50,000 and $100,000, depending on your choices and the size of the room. However, smart homeowners know that this is not their only option. If you’re interested in changing the look of your cabinets, but are working on a limited budget, here are three options for you.

Change or add hardware

If your cabinet knobs are old and outdated, consider adding new ones for an updated look. If you’re looking for a sleek, contemporary look, consider brushed nickel or stainless steel. If you have a country-style kitchen, wrought iron is an ideal look. Other options include painted porcelain knobs and modern beaded designs. If you’re replacing an existing hardware kit, be sure to bring a knob to the store when you choose a new design. This will help ensure that the new ones will fit into the existing holes, making this a project that can easily be completed in just an hour or two.

If you don’t currently have any hardware in your cabinets, adding it can go a long way in achieving a new look. This is a bit more involved than just replacing the existing hardware, but if you can turn a screwdriver you can do it. You will need to measure and drill a small hole and then simply screw in the new knob. Handy homeowners can complete this project from start to finish in an afternoon.

Cabinet Refinishing

If you’re looking for a more drastic change, consider revamping your closets. One method of resurfacing is cabinet refinishing. If you are refinishing the cabinets, you will need to sand the existing cabinets and apply a new stain or paint. Prices for this type of cabinet resurfacing can vary, but the cost can be extremely low if you tackle it yourself. However, if you are not comfortable with the idea of ​​handling a power sander, it is possible to find local companies that can handle this project. Even if you hire an expert to do it for you, the price is still only a fraction of what it would cost to replace the cabinets yourself.

cabinet repair

Cabinet restoration is another option that costs less than a total replacement. If you are considering refinishing the cabinet, the cabinet doors and drawers will be scrapped, the existing frame will be measured, and new ones will be ordered to fit the existing openings. Veneer will be applied to the exterior of the frame and the new doors and drawers will be stained to match. Refacing is more expensive than refinishing, but can still cost less than half the price of replacement.

Updating the look of your kitchen doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. By making smart upgrades, you can improve the look and feel without breaking the bank. Your family probably spends most of their time together in the kitchen; be sure to create memories in a room you love.