Kitchen Wrapping vs New Kitchen — Is It Worth It?

Cost comparison

A full kitchen wrap is typically 70–80% less than a like-for-like new kitchen. You keep the same layout, units and worktops — only the visible surfaces change. A new kitchen means new carcasses, worktops, often plumbing and electrical changes, and a much longer install. If your cabinets are structurally sound and you mainly want a new look, wrapping is usually the better value.

Time and disruption

Wrapping takes 1–3 days depending on kitchen size. No rip-out, no weeks without a working kitchen. Doors are removed and wrapped in our workshop; frames and carcass are wrapped in-situ. A new kitchen can take weeks and often means living around builders and dust. For a quick refresh with minimal disruption, wrapping wins.

Durability and life expectancy

A professionally wrapped kitchen can last 5+ years with correct care. We use branded films and trade-level prep so adhesion and colour hold. It won't change the underlying structure — so if your doors are already worn or you want to change the layout, replacement may still be the right call. We'll tell you honestly at the survey if we think wrapping isn't the best option.

When to replace instead

Replace if: units are damaged, warped or falling apart; you want a new layout or more storage; you're doing a full renovation anyway. Wrap if: the kitchen is dated but sound, you want a new look without the cost and mess of replacement, and you're happy with the current layout. For typical wrap costs, see our kitchen wrapping cost guide.