How to Save Thousands on a Kitchen Remodel in Dakota County

Thinking about remodeling your kitchen in Dakota County? Before you start tearing out cabinets and budgeting for weeks of mess and disruption, there’s a smarter option that could save you thousands of dollars. It’s called kitchen refacing.
That's where we come in!
At Signature Home Services in Apple Valley, we help homeowners across the Twin Cities transform their kitchens quickly, affordably, and beautifully with cabinet refacing.
Let's dive into the nitty gritty, and while we're at it, let's debunk some myths!
Remodel vs. Reface: What’s the Difference?
A full kitchen remodel involves gutting your entire kitchen. That means tearing out old cabinets, possibly changing the layout, and reworking plumbing, electrical, countertops, flooring, and more. It’s a large investment of both time and money.
For certain type of projects, this is probably your best choice. If you're trying to move around or add plumbing, or if you're trying to tear down walls to build more spacing for your kitchen, there's really no escape from a full gut and remodel.
But that's not all projects. Most people just want to get an updated and modern look.
Queue refacing!
Kitchen refacing keeps your existing cabinet boxes in place. We replace your doors and drawer fronts with brand-new, professionally installed components. Then we apply a durable veneer to the face frames and any exposed cabinet surfaces. The result is a completely new look, without the mess or cost of a full remodel.
You can also update your hardware, install soft-close features, and even swap out countertops or backsplashes if you want a fuller refresh.
I know it sounds like refacing is just "painting" but it's a lot more involved. We'll talk about this more in a bit.
How Refacing Saves You Thousands
Lower labor costs
Since we aren’t tearing out or rebuilding anything, labor is minimal compared to a full remodel.
No need to move plumbing or electrical
Keeping the layout the same avoids expensive changes to plumbing lines, outlets, and fixtures.
You keep what still works
If your cabinet boxes are in good shape, there’s no reason to replace them. Refacing works with what you already have.
Faster project timeline
Most kitchen refacing projects are completed in less than a week! That means less downtime and less disruption in your home.
Same visual impact
Your kitchen will look brand-new with new doors, drawer fronts, hardware, and optional upgrades like countertops or backsplashes.
Does Refacing Really Last?
Yes, absolutely. At Signature Home Services, we don’t use cheap paint or temporary fixes. We use high-quality veneer wraps that are heat-resistant, easy to clean, and built to last. The material we use won’t chip like painted cabinets and offers a factory-quality finish.
Our expert installers also ensure your new cabinet doors and drawer fronts are aligned, secure, and functional. With proper care, a refaced kitchen can last 15 to 20 years or more.
What If My Cabinets Are Damaged?
If your cabinet boxes are still structurally sound, refacing is a great option. Surface wear, scratches, or outdated finishes are all resolved through the process. If you do have water damage or structural issues in some areas, we can replacing only those boxes while refacing the rest. It’s still far more affordable than a full remodel.
Is Refacing Just a Paint Job?
No. This is one of the most common misconceptions we hear. Cabinet refacing is not painting. We don’t spray or brush anything onto your existing surfaces. Instead, we install brand-new doors and drawer fronts, then apply a durable veneer to match. It creates a consistent, professional look that holds up much better than paint.
You can choose from a wide variety of colors, textures, and styles. Some of the most popular options with our Dakota County clients include:
- White shaker
- Modern flat-front in espresso or navy
- Classic woodgrains like oak and walnut
- Matte black with brushed brass hardware
We’ll help you design a look that matches your taste and adds value to your home.
Why Dakota County Homeowners Are Choosing Refacing
Kitchen refacing has become a top choice for homeowners in Apple Valley, Lakeville, Eagan, and the surrounding areas because it offers the perfect blend of style and savings. It’s ideal for homeowners who:
- Are happy with their current kitchen layout
- Want to avoid a full demolition
- Need a fast, affordable update
- Care about quality and long-term value
With Signature Home Services, you’re not only getting a fresh new kitchen. You’re getting over 20 years of local remodeling experience, certified and trained installers, and a company that stands behind its work with integrity and transparency.
Ready to Start Your Kitchen Transformation?
If you're ready to save thousands while getting the look of a brand-new kitchen, let’s talk. We offer free in-home consultations so you can get real answers, real options, and a quote that fits your goals.
Call us at (651) 273-1046 or fill out a form here!
Let us show you how beautiful and budget-friendly kitchen refacing can be.