Custom Cabinet Fronts: A Guide to Making the Right Choice

Transform Your Kitchen Without the Hassle

Ever looked at your kitchen and thought, "I love this space, but those cabinets are stuck in another decade"? You're not alone. Many Denver homeowners feel trapped between living with outdated cabinets or emptying their savings on a full kitchen remodel. That's where custom cabinet fronts come to the rescue.



Custom cabinet fronts let you fall in love with your kitchen again without demolishing your budget or disrupting your life for weeks. Think of it as giving your kitchen a facelift instead of major surgery. You keep the bones (your existing cabinet boxes) but completely transform the appearance with new, made-to-order door and drawer fronts.

The numbers tell a compelling story. By choosing custom cabinet fronts over a complete cabinet replacement, you'll typically save up to 50% on your project costs. Plus, when it comes time to sell, you can expect to recoup 70-80% of your investment – not bad for a project that causes minimal disruption to your daily life!

What makes custom cabinet fronts so special is their versatility. Unlike mass-produced options, these fronts are crafted to your exact specifications. Want Shaker-style doors in a matte navy blue? Done. Dreaming of sleek, handle-free slab fronts in a warm walnut finish? No problem. With hundreds of style, material, and finish combinations, your imagination is the only limit.

And it's not just for kitchens – bathroom vanities, built-in bookshelves, entertainment centers, and even laundry room cabinets can all be transformed with custom cabinet fronts. Whether you have face-frame or frameless cabinets, single doors or double doors, we'll measure precisely to ensure a perfect fit.

Hi there – I'm Mike Martinez from Accountable Home Remodeling. I've helped hundreds of Denver homeowners breathe new life into their spaces without breaking the bank. There's nothing quite like seeing a client's face light up when they see their transformed kitchen for the first time – especially when they realize we wrapped up the project in days, not weeks, and for a fraction of what they expected to pay.

Working With IKEA Frames

IKEA's cabinet systems have become something of a secret weapon for budget-conscious homeowners. Their Sektion kitchen cabinets, PAX wardrobes, and Godmorgon bathroom vanities all share something important: standardized dimensions that make them perfect candidates for a custom upgrade.

When working with IKEA cabinets, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, they use a frameless design, which requires a specific approach to overlays. Typically, custom fronts for IKEA cabinets need a 1/8" gap between doors and a 1/2" overlay on the sides. This creates that sleek, European look that many Denver homeowners are after.

The hinge drilling patterns on IKEA cabinets are also quite specific. When you're ordering your custom cabinet fronts, be sure to mention they're for IKEA cabinets so the manufacturer can drill the hinge holes in exactly the right spots. This small detail makes installation so much easier.

One of my favorite tips for clients working with IKEA systems is to order just the cabinet boxes without doors. You can use IKEA's planning tools to create your layout, then have your custom front provider generate a shopping list for exactly what you need. This approach saves both money and time.

As one Denver homeowner shared during our research: "Using Semihandmade was incredible and made the process SO EASY and painless. The zoom call with an expert was so helpful, and the ordering experience flawless."

The best part? Custom cabinet fronts for IKEA cabinets typically run about $100 per linear foot. That's a fraction of what fully custom cabinetry would cost, but the end result looks anything but budget.

Blending Custom Fronts With Existing Cabinets

Sometimes a complete cabinet overhaul isn't necessary or practical. Maybe you've added an island and just need those cabinets to match your existing ones. Or perhaps you're creating a trendy two-tone look with new uppers and existing lowers. Whatever your situation, blending new custom fronts with existing cabinets is absolutely doable.

Color matching is your best friend in this scenario. Bring a sample of your existing cabinet finish when you're selecting your new fronts. For painted cabinets, professional color matching can create a seamless look that makes it impossible to tell which doors are new and which are original.

Filler strips in matching finishes are another key to success when connecting new and existing cabinetry. These small but mighty pieces create visual continuity and hide any gaps or misalignments between different cabinet sections.

Don't underestimate the power of trim kits either. Adding crown molding, light rails, or toe kicks in matching finishes can tie everything together beautifully. It's like adding the right accessories to an outfit – these finishing touches make all the difference.

At Accountable Home Remodeling, we've helped countless Denver homeowners steer cabinet customization. Whether you're starting from scratch with IKEA boxes or blending new elements with existing cabinetry, we can guide you through the process to create a cohesive, high-end look that reflects your personal style without breaking the bank.

Materials, Finishes & 2024 Design Trends

When it comes to custom cabinet fronts, the materials and finishes you select will make or break your kitchen's new look. I've helped countless Denver homeowners steer these choices, and I'm excited to share what's working beautifully in homes across our area.

Most of my clients are choosing from these popular materials:

Solid wood delivers timeless beauty with natural grain patterns that add character to any kitchen. Cherry, maple, and walnut remain favorites for their warmth and durability.

MDF (medium-density fiberboard) provides a smooth, stable surface that's perfect for painted finishes and won't warp or crack with seasonal changes – a real consideration with our Colorado climate!

Thermofoil wraps MDF cores in a durable vinyl coating, creating a seamless, easy-to-clean surface that's budget-friendly and moisture-resistant.

Acrylic offers that high-gloss, ultra-modern look that's particularly striking in contemporary homes. The reflective quality can make smaller kitchens feel more spacious.

For cabinet boxes, formaldehyde-free plywood delivers strength without compromising indoor air quality – something more Denver families are prioritizing.

Style-wise, shaker remains the most requested door style for its versatility, while slab doors create that clean, modern aesthetic that pairs beautifully with mountain modern homes. Rift oak with its straight, consistent grain has become a standout choice for those wanting natural wood with contemporary appeal.

For finishes, we're seeing a shift toward matte colors that hide fingerprints better than glossy options – a practical choice for busy family kitchens. Nature-inspired hues like sage green, clay, and warm whites are replacing stark whites, while metallic accents add unexpected dimension as accent pieces.

The science behind color choices is fascinating – as explored in scientific research on color perception, the colors we surround ourselves with genuinely affect our mood and energy. I always encourage homeowners to consider how they want to feel in their kitchen when selecting cabinet colors.

Trending Styles for Custom Cabinet Fronts

The Denver market is embracing several distinct cabinet front styles this year:

Japandi Style blends Japanese minimalism with Scandinavian coziness – think clean lines, natural materials, and thoughtful craftsmanship. One Highlands Ranch client told me, "Our Japandi-inspired kitchen feels both peaceful and practical – exactly what we wanted."

Warm Minimalism has become my most-requested style this year. It maintains clean lines but incorporates earthy tones and subtle textures that feel more inviting than stark minimalism. This approach works beautifully in our Colorado homes where we want to bring natural warmth indoors.

Two-Tone Cabinets continue gaining momentum, with many homeowners choosing darker bases with lighter uppers or incorporating a statement island in a contrasting color. This approach adds visual interest without overwhelming the space.

Reeded Panels – those vertical grooves that add beautiful texture – have exploded in popularity. They're appearing on islands, accent cabinets, and even full kitchens. The dimensional quality catches light beautifully and adds architectural interest.

Integrated Pulls create that sleek, handle-free look that's both modern and practical. Many of my clients appreciate the clean lines and the bonus of never catching a pocket or sleeve on a protruding handle again!

Eco-Friendly & Low-VOC Options

Denver homeowners are increasingly environmentally conscious, and I'm proud to offer sustainable options that don't compromise on style or durability.

PureBond plywood uses soy-based adhesives instead of traditional formaldehyde-based options, creating healthier indoor air quality – something especially important in our sealed winter homes.

Cabinet fronts made with wood from sustainable forestry practices ensure we're not depleting forest resources. Look for FSC certification to verify responsible sourcing.

Water-borne finishes have come a long way in recent years. They now offer excellent durability while emitting far fewer VOCs (volatile organic compounds) than traditional finishes. One Golden client recently shared, "Having small children, we were concerned about air quality. Knowing our cabinets have low-VOC finishes gives us peace of mind."

At Accountable Home Remodeling, we've built relationships with manufacturers who share our commitment to environmental responsibility without cutting corners on quality. Your beautiful kitchen shouldn't come at the expense of our beautiful Colorado environment.

When you're ready to explore material and finish options for your custom cabinet fronts, I'd be happy to bring samples to your home so you can see how they look in your actual space and lighting. Sometimes, seeing is believing when it comes to making these important design decisions!

Measuring, Ordering & Lead Times

Getting accurate measurements is the make-or-break moment when ordering custom cabinet fronts. I've seen how even a tiny measurement error can lead to doors that just don't quite fit right. But don't worry – with a little care and attention, you'll get it right the first time.

How to Measure for Custom Cabinet Fronts

Before you grab that tape measure, make sure you have the right tools for the job:

• A quality tape measure with 1/16" increments (precision matters!)
• A notepad to record your measurements clearly
• A friend to help hold the tape for larger cabinets (and to double-check your work)

When it comes to actually calculating the size of your new custom cabinet fronts, the formula changes slightly depending on whether you're working with single or double doors.

For single doors, it's pretty straightforward. Measure the opening width and height, then add twice your desired overlay to both dimensions. So if you have a 12"×24" opening and want a ½" overlay, your door would be 13"×25". The overlay is what creates that professional, finished look where the door slightly overlaps the cabinet frame.

Double doors require a bit more math. Measure the opening width, add twice the overlay, then subtract 1/8" for the gap between the doors. Finally, divide by two to get the width of each door. For example, if you have a 24" opening with a ½" overlay, each door would be 12.4375" wide. Yes, we work in sixteenths of an inch – that's how precise custom work needs to be!

Mike, our lead carpenter at Accountable Home Remodeling, always tells clients: "Measure twice, write everything down clearly, and then measure again. The extra few minutes you spend getting accurate measurements will save you headaches down the road."

When measuring, don't forget to consider practical matters like existing hinges (if you're keeping them), appliance clearance (nobody wants a fridge door that can't fully open!), and how adjacent doors and drawers will interact.

Placing an Order

Once your measurements are ready, the ordering process is pretty straightforward. Most manufacturers have detailed order forms where you'll specify all the important details: door sizes and quantities, your chosen material and finish, edge profile preferences, hinge boring requirements, and overlay specifications.

Before you commit to a full order, I always recommend ordering material and color samples first. It's amazing how different a finish can look in your actual kitchen lighting compared to how it appeared online or in a showroom. This small step has saved many of our Denver clients from color regrets!

For more complex orders, you'll usually receive technical drawings for your approval before production begins. Take your time reviewing these – they're your last chance to catch any potential issues before manufacturing starts.

Most custom cabinet front providers require a deposit when ordering, with the balance due before shipping. At Accountable Home Remodeling, we guide our Denver clients through this entire process, ensuring nothing gets overlooked.

Typical Production & Shipping Timeline

One of the biggest advantages of choosing custom cabinet fronts instead of full custom cabinetry is the significantly faster production timeline. While a complete custom cabinet job might keep your kitchen out of commission for months, custom fronts can transform your space in a matter of weeks.

Here's what the timeline typically looks like:

Manufacturing typically takes 6-10 days for unfinished doors. If you're going with prefinished or painted doors, add about 25-30 business days to allow for proper application and curing of finishes. Quality control and packaging usually adds another 1-2 days, followed by shipping which takes 2-6 business days depending on your location and the shipping method chosen.

For a typical kitchen here in Denver, the entire process—from taking measurements to completing installation—usually takes about 3-6 weeks. Compare that to 8-12 weeks for a full cabinet replacement, and you can see why so many homeowners are choosing this route.

As one of our recent clients in Highlands Ranch told me, "I was amazed we could completely transform our kitchen in under a month. I was expecting the project to drag on for months like my neighbor's full remodel did!"

This quick turnaround is especially valuable if you're updating your space for a special event, preparing to sell your home, or simply don't want to live with a torn-up kitchen for months on end. At Accountable Home Remodeling, we understand that your time is valuable, and we work efficiently to minimize disruption to your daily life while still delivering beautiful, high-quality results.

Installation & Finishing Tips

The magic moment arrives when your custom cabinet fronts are ready to install. This is where your vision truly comes to life! Whether you're rolling up your sleeves for a DIY weekend project or calling in the pros, understanding what goes into a successful installation helps ensure your kitchen or bathroom change delivers that perfect finished look.

Ensuring a Perfect Fit

Even with carefully measured custom fronts, the real world of home construction often throws a few curves our way. Walls aren't perfectly plumb, cabinets settle over time, and what looked level on paper might need some finessing in reality.

European hinges are truly the unsung heroes of cabinet installations. These marvels of engineering (the most common type used with custom cabinet fronts) offer three-way adjustment capabilities that can solve almost any alignment challenge. You can adjust up/down to align the tops of adjacent doors, left/right to create even gaps between doors, and in/out to ensure the door sits flush with the cabinet face.

When installing your new fronts, aim for consistent reveals—those small gaps between doors—of approximately 1/8". This seemingly tiny detail makes a huge difference in the overall look of your cabinetry. Many professionals use small spacers during installation to maintain these consistent gaps throughout the kitchen.

For cabinets without soft-close hinges, magnetic catches are worth their weight in gold. They provide that satisfying "click" when doors close and keep everything neatly shut, even in busy households where doors might otherwise swing open.

One of our Westminster clients recently shared: "I was amazed at how the installers could make tiny adjustments to get everything perfectly aligned. The doors close with a satisfying click, and everything lines up beautifully." It's these small details that transform a good installation into a great one.

DIY vs. Professional Help

There's something deeply satisfying about completing a home improvement project with your own two hands. Installing custom cabinet fronts is definitely more accessible than tackling a full cabinet installation, but it still requires attention to detail and some specialized tools.

If you're considering the DIY route, you'll need a cordless drill/driver, a hinge boring jig (if you're installing new hinges), a quality screwdriver set, a level, and a tape measure. Having a helper for larger doors is not just convenient—it's practically essential to avoid damaging your beautiful new fronts or, worse, hurting yourself.

That said, there are definitely situations where calling in professionals makes sense. If you're replacing more than 10-15 doors, if your cabinet boxes need repair, if you're changing hinge styles, adding soft-close mechanisms, or if your cabinets are older or noticeably out of square—these are all good reasons to bring in experienced installers.

At Accountable Home Remodeling, our installation professionals bring years of experience and specialized tools to ensure your custom cabinet fronts are installed perfectly. We've seen every cabinet configuration imaginable in Denver homes, from century-old craftsman kitchens to brand-new IKEA installations. Our team can typically complete a full kitchen installation in just 1-2 days, minimizing disruption to your daily routine.

The investment in professional installation often pays for itself in time saved, frustration avoided, and the peace of mind that comes with knowing everything is perfectly aligned and functioning as it should. Plus, our installers can address any unexpected issues on the spot, ensuring your project stays on track.

Whether you choose DIY or professional installation, your new custom cabinet fronts will transform your space with remarkable efficiency compared to a full remodel. And when those last hinges are adjusted and the doors swing open with perfect alignment, you'll know you've made a smart investment in your home.

Looking for professional help with your cabinet change? Check out our Kitchen Cabinet Remodeling Near Me services to learn how we can bring your vision to life.

Durability, Maintenance & Warranty

Let's talk about keeping those beautiful custom cabinet fronts looking their best for years to come. After all, you've invested in changing your home, and you'll want that fresh, updated look to last!

The lifespan of your cabinet fronts largely depends on what they're made of. Each material has its own personality when it comes to durability:

Solid Wood cabinet fronts are like that dependable friend who's always there for you. They're incredibly sturdy and can take a beating, but they do have one quirk – they respond to humidity changes by slightly expanding and contracting. Don't worry though! A good finish acts like a protective shield against these mood swings.

MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is the steady, reliable type. It stays put and doesn't warp easily, making it perfect for painted finishes. One thing to note – it's not as fond of water as solid wood is, so it's best to quickly wipe up any spills in bathroom or kitchen areas.

Thermofoil fronts are the easy-going, low-maintenance option. They resist moisture and are a breeze to clean. Just keep them away from extreme heat sources like ovens or dishwashers – they can get a bit flustered and start to peel when things get too hot.

Acrylic fronts are the tough kids on the block. They stand up well to scratches, stains, and moisture, plus they won't yellow with age like some materials do. They're worth considering if you have a busy household with kids or pets.

"The quality of our custom fronts has been outstanding," one Cherry Creek homeowner told us recently. "After two years of daily use with three kids, they still look brand new with just regular cleaning."

Taking care of your custom cabinet fronts isn't complicated – think of it as simple, routine maintenance:

• Give them a gentle wipe-down with a soft, damp cloth regularly
• Treat them kindly by avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
• Check in on those hinge screws occasionally and give them a little tighten if needed
• Address any minor scratches promptly with manufacturer-recommended touch-up products

Most manufacturers back their custom cabinet fronts with warranties ranging from 5-10 years. These typically cover manufacturing defects and finish issues, giving you peace of mind about your investment. At Accountable Home Remodeling, we don't just install and disappear – we stand firmly behind our work with comprehensive warranty coverage and ongoing support for all our Denver Metro Area clients.

We recommend creating a simple maintenance schedule to keep your cabinets in top shape. A quick monthly check for loose hinges and a thorough cleaning every three months will go a long way toward preserving their beauty. For painted finishes, keep a small amount of touch-up paint handy for quick fixes if needed.

"The materials and workmanship are absolutely beautiful," shared one homeowner in a testimonial we found. "You would never know our cabinets weren't fully custom built."

With proper care, your custom cabinet fronts will continue to be the showpiece of your home for many years to come. The small amount of maintenance required is a tiny price to pay for the dramatic change and value they bring to your space.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Cabinet Fronts

How much do custom cabinet fronts cost per linear foot?

When budgeting for your cabinet change, you'll find that custom cabinet fronts typically range from $80-$150 per linear foot. This price varies based on your chosen materials, finishes, and design complexity.

For perspective, a standard 10×10 kitchen with about 25 linear feet of cabinetry would cost between $2,000-$3,750 for the fronts alone, plus installation costs. Many Denver homeowners find this surprisingly affordable compared to a full cabinet replacement.

If you're working with IKEA cabinet systems, you're in luck! Custom fronts for these systems average around $100 per linear foot, giving you that high-end custom look without the premium price tag of fully custom cabinetry.

Several factors influence your final price tag. Solid wood options will cost more than MDF, while intricate panel doors require more craftsmanship than simple slab designs. Your finish choices (painted, stained, or specialty finishes) and hardware selections (particularly soft-close hinges) will also impact the bottom line.

Can I reuse my existing hinges and hardware?

Yes, you often can! Reusing your existing hardware is both budget-friendly and environmentally conscious. However, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind.

For hinges, if they're in good condition and you're maintaining the same overlay style, you're usually good to go. That said, if you're switching from partial to full overlay (or vice versa), you'll likely need new hinges to accommodate the change.

"When clients want to keep their existing hinges, we always examine them carefully first," shares our lead installer. "Sometimes what seems like a small cost savings can lead to alignment issues down the road if the hinges are worn."

European hinges (also called cup hinges) offer the most versatility and adjustment options. If your cabinets currently have older hinge styles, we typically recommend upgrading to European hinges during the refacing process – they'll give your doors that smooth, precise operation that makes a kitchen feel truly high-end.

As for pulls and knobs, these can almost always be reused if you love your current style. That said, many homeowners see cabinet refacing as the perfect opportunity to update their hardware for a complete change. Think of it as changing both your outfit and accessories rather than just one or the other!

Pro tip: If you're planning to reuse hinges, provide a sample to your cabinet front manufacturer to ensure they drill the boring holes in exactly the right locations.

What if my doors warp or don't align after installation?

Even with perfect installation, you might notice some minor alignment issues as your new custom cabinet fronts settle into your home. This is completely normal and usually easy to address.

First, give your new doors 1-2 weeks to fully acclimate to your home's unique humidity and temperature conditions. Wood and wood-based materials are natural products that respond to their environment, so a little patience goes a long way.

Most alignment issues can be resolved with simple hinge adjustments. This is where those European hinges really shine – they typically offer three-way adjustment capabilities (up/down, left/right, and in/out), allowing for precise door positioning.

"I was worried when I noticed a small gap between two of my new cabinet doors," one Highlands Ranch client told us. "But it took our installer literally 30 seconds to make a tiny adjustment to the hinges, and now they're perfectly aligned!"

Sometimes the issue isn't with the doors at all. Check for obstructions preventing proper closure, like items inside the cabinets or damaged cabinet boxes that might need repair.

If adjustments don't solve the issue, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help. At Accountable Home Remodeling, we stand behind our work with follow-up service to ensure everything functions perfectly in your Denver home.

For the rare case of significant warping (uncommon with quality custom cabinet fronts), reputable manufacturers offer warranty coverage and will replace doors that don't meet specifications. That's why we partner only with cabinet front suppliers who back their products with solid warranties.

Conclusion

Custom cabinet fronts offer Denver homeowners a remarkable opportunity to transform their living spaces without the headache of a complete renovation. When you choose cabinet refacing over a full remodel, you're not just saving money—you're choosing a path that respects your time, minimizes disruption to your daily life, and still delivers that jaw-dropping change you're dreaming of.

At Accountable Home Remodeling, we've witnessed countless "wow" moments when homeowners see their refreshed spaces for the first time. There's something magical about watching a tired, dated kitchen become a stunning centerpiece of the home—all without tearing everything out and starting from scratch.

One Arvada homeowner recently shared with us: "I can't believe this is the same kitchen. The new cabinet fronts completely changed the feel of our home, and the process was so much easier than I expected." These kinds of changes are what drive our passion for cabinet refacing.

Our team is committed to supporting you through every step of your custom front project. From those initial "what if" conversations where we explore design possibilities, through the precise measuring process, quality manufacturing, and expert installation—we're with you all the way. We believe that remodeling shouldn't be stressful; it should be exciting and rewarding.

The beauty of custom cabinet fronts is in the details. The perfect overlay dimension. The exact color match to your vision. The satisfying soft-close of perfectly aligned doors. These small touches add up to create a finished product that feels completely custom, even though your original cabinet boxes remain beneath.

Ready to see what's possible in your home? Our team serves homeowners throughout the Denver Metro Area—from Broomfield and Westminster to Thornton, Northglenn, Arvada, Boulder, Denver, Longmont, Aurora, and Lakewood. We'd love to show you how custom cabinet fronts can transform your space with exceptional service and results that consistently exceed expectations.



Your dream kitchen or bathroom is closer than you think. Contact Accountable Home Remodeling today for a personalized consultation, and take the first step toward a beautiful, budget-friendly change that you'll enjoy for years to come.