Tariffs Are Driving Up Cabinet Costs — Here’s How Refinishing Can Save You Thousands

3 Bullet Point Summary: 

• New tariffs are pushing up the price of imported cabinetry and raw materials, making remodels more expensive.

• Cabinet refinishing offers a high-end look at a fraction of the cost, without compromising quality.

• Our AUTHORICOAT process helps homeowners modernize existing cabinetry while staying budget-smart.

If you’ve been exploring options for a kitchen or bathroom remodel lately, you may have noticed something frustrating: cabinet prices are climbing—and fast. One major reason? Tariffs.

As trade policies shift, tariffs on imported materials like wood, metal hardware, and even certain cabinetry components have led to higher manufacturing costs—and those increases get passed directly to homeowners. In fact, many full cabinet replacement projects have seen price hikes of 15% or more in 2025 alone.

But before you abandon your remodel or blow your budget, there’s good news: cabinet refinishing can be a smart, cost-effective alternative that helps offset those tariff-related spikes—without compromising on style or quality.

Why Cabinets Are So Expensive Right Now

Cabinets aren’t just boxes with doors—they’re built from multiple imported materials: plywood, MDF, hardwoods, hinges, drawer slides, and specialty finishes. Tariffs on imported plywood and finished wood products have made even domestic cabinet brands more expensive, as they rely on global supply chains for raw materials.

What’s more, longer lead times and freight costs are compounding the issue. You’re not just paying more—you’re also waiting longer.

Refinishing: The Smart Way to Save

Cabinet refinishing is a process where your existing cabinet boxes are kept in place and professionally restored using high-performance coatings. This can include:

• Surface repairs and sanding

• Custom color application

• Durable topcoat sealing

• Optional hardware upgrades

By refinishing instead of replacing, you eliminate the need for new cabinet materials—bypassing many of the costs driven up by tariffs. Homeowners typically save 40–60% compared to full cabinet replacement, depending on the size and scope of the project.

Not All Refinishing Is Created Equal

At The Coatings Authority, we take refinishing seriously. Our proprietary AUTHORICOAT process goes far beyond basic paint or DIY solutions. We use industrial-grade coatings, spray-applied in a controlled environment, to deliver a smooth, factory-like finish that stands up to daily use.

Because the process is fully customizable, you’re not limited to standard colors or sheens. Want a modern white satin, a bold navy matte, or a wood-toned stain? We can do it—and do it right.

When Refinishing Makes Sense

Cabinet refinishing is ideal if:

• Your cabinet layout works well, but the finish is outdated or damaged

• Your boxes are structurally sound

• You want a fast, budget-friendly update with high design impact

Whether you’re planning to stay in your home long-term or preparing it for resale, refinishing provides one of the highest returns on investment of any kitchen upgrade—especially in a high-tariff economy.

Tariffs may be raising the cost of new cabinets, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Refinishing is a smart, sustainable way to get the look you want—without the sticker shock.

Ready to refresh your cabinets and avoid unnecessary costs? Contact The Coatings Authority today to schedule your free cabinet consult and see how much you could save.