Are you torn between resurfacing and replacing your countertops? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide what’s best for your budget and your lifestyle.

Before we get started, here are the main differences between resurfacing and replacing:

Replace: You will need to tear down your existing countertops and install new ones.

Resurface: Your existing countertops will be stripped of their finish (if present) and then coated with a new surface.

Resurfacing has its pros and cons; there is no right or wrong answer; it all depends on what you’re looking for in terms of style, cost, and ease of maintenance. Let’s look at each option in more detail.

Pros of Resurfacing:

If you don’t want to replace all of the cabinets, then resurfacing is a great option
Saves you money – A kitchen countertop resurfacing costs about 40% less than replacing the same size countertops. If you have just one countertop to do, it will cost even less since there won’t be any new cabinets involved.

Cons of Resurfacing:

Since it’s not permanent, it may not last as long as entirely new ones. But with the right contractor and materials, the countertops can last for years

Pros of Replacing:

It gives you a chance to update the entire look of your kitchen for a great price.

Cons of Replacing:

You will need to replace all other cabinets to get rid of the old ones and add new ones. This can be expensive depending on what style and size of cabinets you want.
You’ll likely have to do some demolition work before installation.

If there are already installed tile counters that need removing, this will cost extra money and time.

So which one is right for you?

If you have a tight budget and can’t afford to replace all of your cabinets, then it might be best to resurface. But, if you have enough money saved up to replace the entire kitchen – including the counters and the cabinets they sit on top of – it’s likely worth spending more money on replacing instead of resurfacing.

Resurfacing: Great choice if your current countertops are stained/discolored or outdated but still in good condition (no cracks or chips). Also, great if you want a quick update and don’t want to spend lots of money on a big, permanent change.

Replacing: Great choice if you’d like to completely redo your kitchen and get new cabinets that match the new countertops; also great if your current countertops are damaged or outdated.