Custom Cabinet Company in Portland FAQs

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, and your cabinets are one of the first things people notice when they walk in. Updating them can make a noticeable difference in your space, giving your kitchen a new look while also increasing your home’s value.


As a trusted custom cabinet company in Portland, Cabinet Cures transforms kitchens with professional cabinet refacing and all-wood craftsmanship. Below, we’ve answered the most common questions homeowners in the Portland metro area ask before starting their project.

What Is Cabinet Refacing?

Cabinet refacing is the process of giving your existing cabinets a completely new look and feel, without replacing the entire cabinet structure. We replace your doors, drawer fronts, and apply new real-wood coverings to your existing cabinet boxes. This gives you a brand-new look without tearing out your entire cabinetry. The steps generally include:

  • Removing doors, drawer fronts, and hardware
  • Cleaning, patching, and preparing cabinet box faces
  • Applying new wood panels/trim to cabinet boxes
  • Installing new doors, drawer fronts, hinges, and hardware
  • Final adjustments, quality check, and walk-through

Who Handles the Installation?

Our in-house team handles installation. That means you won’t get subcontractors with varying standards. It’s our workers, our oversight, our responsibility to get the job done right.

Can I Still Use My Kitchen During the Process?

Refacing is less invasive than a full kitchen remodel, which means less disruption overall. However, to ensure a smooth and efficient process, cabinets will need to be emptied, and access to appliances or the sink may be limited at times. We’ll coordinate with you to minimize inconvenience as much as possible.

Can You Repair Cabinets Before Refacing?

In many cases, yes. If your cabinets are structurally sound, repairing and refacing them is often a better choice than replacing. Our team will inspect your cabinetry, repair what’s needed, and then proceed with refacing for a completely updated look.

How Many Colors Can I Choose From?

You can choose from over 35 stain colors using the proprietary finish system and other finishes. For people looking for a paint color, our tinted lacquers are provided by Sherwin Williams and give our customers access to their full color catalog.

Do You Offer Free Design Services?

Yes! Every project begins with a free in-home or showroom design consultation. Our experienced designers will help you choose colors, finishes, door styles, and layout updates to complement your home and lifestyle.

How Long Does a Cabinet Refacing Project Take?

Most refacing projects can be completed in just a few days — typically one week or less, depending on the size and scope of your kitchen. Custom cabinet installations may take longer, but we always provide a clear timeline before starting your project.

Do You Use Veneers on the Exteriors of the Cabinets?

No. Cabinet Cures never uses veneers or laminates. Every visible surface — doors, drawers, and sides — is made from ¼” wood skins. That’s part of what makes us the custom cabinet company Portland homeowners trust for high-quality, long-lasting cabinetry.

Do You Build Brand-New Custom Cabinets, or Only Reface?

We offer full custom cabinetry when refacing isn’t suitable (for example, if cabinet boxes are damaged, or you want a layout change). Every cabinet we build is made from real wood, custom-designed, and installed by our team.

Refacing is a great option when the structure is still sound and you’re happy with the layout — it gives you that refreshed high-end look without full demolition.

Is Refacing Cheaper Than Full Cabinet Replacement?

Almost always. Because we’re retaining what’s structurally sound and only replacing visual elements, refacing requires less material, labor, and demolition. Some sources suggest refacing can cost 30–50% less than full cabinet replacement.

Plus, you save on waste removal, relocation of utilities, and extra finishes.

What Is a Corbel?

A corbel is a small, decorative piece of wood that’s often installed under countertops, shelves, or the edges of cabinets. Think of it as a stylish little bracket that supports weight while adding character to your kitchen. Corbels can be simple and clean for a modern look, or carved with intricate details for a more traditional style. Our corbels are made from ¼” wood skins, and finished to match your refaced cabinets. You’ll usually see them along the edges of a countertop, island, or shelf, creating a polished, custom look.

Is There a List of Cabinet Terms I Can Read?

Yes! Please visit our Kitchen Cabinet Refacing Terminology Page to learn more about cabinets and cabinet refacing!

How Is Cabinet Cures Different From Other Cabinet Companies?

Cabinet Cures stands apart for our 40+ years of experience, family-owned values, and commitment to craftsmanship. We offer:

• A full-service Portland showroom where you can explore styles, finishes, and design ideas
• Free professional design consultations to help bring your vision to life
• Locally sourced, all-wood products
• A fully custom experience from design to installation

How Do I Get Started?

Getting started with Cabinet Cures, your trusted custom cabinet company in Portland, is simple. Just visit our Portland showroom or contact us to schedule a free design consultation today.

ARE YOU LOOKING INTO CABINET REFACING?