Cabinet Repair San Francisco: Restore, Refresh, and Add Value to Your Home

Aging homes and ever-changing weather make cabinet repair a smart move for San Francisco property owners. The city is filled with beautiful older buildings, but years of use can leave cabinets looking tired or not working right. In a place where property values remain high and sustainability matters, fixing cabinets instead of replacing them keeps your space fresh while saving money and resources.

Quality repairs don't just boost appearance—they help your kitchen or workspace run smoothly every day. By choosing to repair, homeowners and businesses help preserve the unique character of San Francisco interiors and maintain long-term value. Whether it's a sticky drawer or worn door, simple fixes can extend the life of your cabinets and limit waste.

Common Cabinet Issues in San Francisco Homes

San Francisco’s mix of coastal weather, historic buildings, and city living creates unique challenges for cabinets that you don’t always see elsewhere. In neighborhoods from the Outer Richmond to the Mission, locals notice many of the same problems—whether it’s sticky drawers in Edwardians or sagging shelves in Victorians. Here’s a closer look at the most common cabinet issues you’ll find in Bay Area kitchens and why they happen.

Water and Moisture Damage to Cabinets

Coastal fog, high rooftop humidity, and occasional plumbing mishaps mean San Francisco cabinets often battle unwanted moisture. Too much dampness makes wood cabinets swell, warp, and even split apart. Cabinet finishes can bubble or peel. Coastal air brings in extra salt, which only speeds up the wear.

Homeowners see the effects in these ways:

• Doors and drawer faces that don’t fit flush
• Swelling around sink bases
• Blistered or cloudy finishes
• Mold or musty smells, especially in back corners

To make things last, it’s smart to watch areas under sinks, near dishwashers, and by exterior walls. Even a small leak can soak wood panels. If you spot any warping or stains, fast action can keep repairs simple instead of costly.

Worn Finishes and Scratched Surfaces

With families cooking, kids running through hallways, and daily use, it’s easy for cabinet surfaces to pick up scratches, nicks, and faded spots. In some older homes, the cabinet finish may be decades old and losing its shine.

What do homeowners notice?

• Scuffs, gouges, and faded “traffic patterns” on cabinet doors
• Old varnish or paint flaking away, especially near handles
• Dull, cloudy spots that don’t clean up with regular wiping

For light scratches, touch-up pens, wood markers, or even a dab of matching paint can work wonders. Deeper gouges or widespread wear call for sanding, filling, and often a full refinish from a pro. Regular cabinet cleaning and quick touch-ups go a long way to prevent bigger problems.

Hinges, Drawers, and Hardware Problems

Hinges, slides, and pulls take the brunt of city life. Over the years, you’ll see hardware wear out, hinges sag, and drawers stick or jam—especially in homes where salty air and humidity get into the works.

The most frequent complaints include:

• Hinges that squeak, feel loose, or pull away from doors
• Stick drawers, rattling slides, or boxes that don’t close all the way
• Misaligned or uneven doors and drawers that never sit quite right

Small fixes can make a big difference:

• Tightening loose screws or filling stripped holes with wood glue and dowels
• Lubricating drawer slides
• Replacing broken or rusted hardware with quality, moisture-resistant pieces

Modern options like soft-close hinges and full-extension slides don’t just feel better—they last longer and keep cabinets in shape.

Structural Issues: Sagging Shelves and Damaged Doors

Cabinet boxes and shelves carry plenty of weight, especially as families pile in more cookware or pantry items over the years. In older San Francisco homes, original cabinetry might hold up for decades but can start showing strain.

Common structural issues include:

• Shelves bowing in the middle or separating from side walls
• Doors that look crooked or drag when opened
• Cabinet frames or back panels pulling away from the wall

These problems aren’t just annoying—they can cause further damage or even safety risks. Quick repairs keep things sturdy:

• Reinforcing shelves with new brackets or a middle support
• Re-securing loose cabinet boxes to wall studs
• Rehanging or rehabbing doors so they sit straight

If your cabinets look like they’re ready to collapse, don’t wait. In many cases, targeted repairs can add decades to your existing kitchen and save a full replacement down the line.

Cabinet care in San Francisco is both about maintenance and about honoring the character of your home. By understanding these common issues and tackling them early, you maintain both everyday function and long-term value.

Professional Cabinet Repair Services in San Francisco

If your cabinets in San Francisco need more than a quick touch-up, professional cabinet repair can save their style and function without the big mess of full replacement. Knowing the process and available options helps you keep your space looking sharp and working smoothly.

Overview of Restoration Techniques

Professional cabinet repair in San Francisco follows a thorough process. Experts start by removing cabinet doors, drawers, and all hardware, carefully labeling parts to avoid mix-ups later. The real work kicks off with a deep cleaning. Grease, cooking residue, and years of build-up get scrubbed away, often with tough degreasers. This sets the stage for a fresh new look or strong repairs.

Repairs involve:

• Surface prepping: Technicians might sand older finishes or use liquid de-glossers, depending on your cabinet’s material and finish.
• Filling and patching: Nicks, gouges, cracks, or worn corners are filled and sanded smooth.
• Structural fixes: Sagging shelves, split panels, or loose joints are reinforced or rebuilt.
• Priming and painting: Cabinets often get an adhesion-promoting primer before high-quality paint or stain goes on. Paint or finish is applied using fine brushes, rollers, or even professional spray equipment.
• Finishing touches: Doors and drawers are reinstalled, and new hardware like soft-close hinges or updated pulls can be added.

Specialists also use dust barriers, drop cloths, and careful taping to protect other parts of your kitchen or workspace. If you’re updating cabinets in a historic flat or a modern loft, restoration is done with a focus on blending the old with new touches.

Cabinet Repair vs. Replacement: Cost and Value

Cabinet repair is often the smart choice in San Francisco, where saving original features and avoiding construction mess makes sense. Most repair jobs cost just a fraction of what full replacement runs—often 50% to 65% less.

Repair is best if:

• Your cabinet boxes are solid, but doors or drawer fronts are worn.
• You want to refresh the look without changing the entire layout.
• You need quick results (repairs typically take two or three weeks at most).
• Sustainability and waste reduction are a priority.

Replacement may make more sense if:

• Cabinets have severe water or pest damage.
• The cabinet layout doesn’t suit your needs.
• You want totally custom materials throughout.

In practice, many San Francisco property owners pick repair because it preserves unique period details and reduces landfill waste. Today’s repairs deliver long-lasting results thanks to new coatings and improved hardware. A quality repair can help cabinets look—and function—like new for many years.

Top-Rated Cabinet Repair Companies in San Francisco

There’s no shortage of skilled cabinet pros in the Bay Area. Here’s a list of some well-reviewed companies, along with what makes them stand out:

1. Cabinets Bay Area

• Website: cabinetsbayarea.com
• Specialties: Cabinet refacing, custom cabinet builds, full-service kitchen and bath updates.
• What makes them unique: Experienced team handles everything from simple repairs to brand-new custom cabinetry, with design input along the way.

2. Furniture Medic – San Francisco Bay Area

• Website: furnituremedic.com
• Specialties: Repair and restoration for residential and commercial cabinets and furniture.
• Unique offering: Handles everything from everyday wear to fire and water damage repairs, including insurance claims support.

3. Renew Medic

• Website: renewmedic.com
• Specialties: Cabinet cleaning, touch-ups, full refinishing, color changes, and refacing.
• Why choose them: Focus on efficient project timelines and modern finishes for quick, impressive results.

4. The Meticulous Handyman

• Find them on: Yelp
• Specialties: General cabinet repair, fine woodworking for tricky projects, and attention to structural fixes.
• What customers love: On-time service and clear communication.

5. Handyman Heroes

• Website: handymanhero.es
• Specialties: Cabinet repairs, tune-ups, and hardware upgrades for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Highlight: Online scheduling and solid customer service make them a favorite for quick fixes and upgrades.

Many local providers work closely with insurance adjusters and restoration companies, making them the go-to for emergency repairs or after-incident needs. When choosing a company, check reviews, ask about their process, and request a clear estimate up front.

From surface renewals to full structural rebuilds, San Francisco’s top cabinet repair companies combine craft, care, and convenience to help you hold onto what matters in your home or business.

Cost of Cabinet Repair in San Francisco

Cabinet repair in San Francisco sits at the intersection of skilled craft and real-world economics. Local homeowners want to keep their kitchens fresh and functioning without breaking the bank. Whether your cabinets need a quick fix or a complete facelift, knowing typical costs up front helps you plan and choose smartly. Let’s break down what you can expect to spend, why rates are higher (or lower) in the Bay Area, and how to compare pros for the best value.

Price Ranges for Common Repairs

Cabinet repairs can be as simple as tightening a hinge or as involved as full-scale restoration. Here’s what you can expect to pay in the San Francisco market as of mid-2025:

• Basic repairs: Tightening hinges, replacing small hardware, and minor touch-ups start between $120 and $370 per cabinet. If it’s just one squeaky door or a quick fix for a drawer, you’ll often pay on the lower end.
• Replacing bottoms or floors: Water under the sink or at the edges? Swapping out a damaged cabinet floor averages $150 to $600 per spot.
• Hinge and hardware repairs: Swapping out old or rusty hardware runs from $120 to $600, depending on the number and quality of handles or pulls.
• Painting or refinishing: For a full kitchen, expect to pay $2,000 to $6,500 for professional repainting. Refinishing or restaining usually costs between $1,500 and $4,500.
• Refacing cabinets: If you want to keep the cabinet boxes but update everything visible, costs range from $5,000 to $13,000, with simple styles at the low end and premium finishes up top.
• Major repairs or partial replacement: New doors, new structural supports, or a mix of corrections typically runs $2,200 to $6,600.
• Full replacement: Sometimes repair won’t cut it. For comparison, swapping out an entire kitchen full of cabinets costs between $4,500 and $15,000 or more, depending on the size and materials used.

If a single cabinet is badly damaged but the rest are solid, many local pros offer per-cabinet pricing that falls between $364 and $547.

The price you pay depends on details like your cabinet’s age, material, and the scope of work needed.

Factors That Affect Cost in the Bay Area

No two repairs are ever exactly the same, but several consistent factors shape your final bill in San Francisco:

• Labor rates: The city’s cost of living pushes professional labor rates higher than in many U.S. regions. Skilled cabinet workers often charge more per hour to help cover local expenses.
• Material quality: Solid woods (like oak or maple) bump up repair costs because they require careful matching and finishing. Cheaper materials like MDF or laminate are less pricey to repair, but may not last as long.
• Cabinet location and age: Repairing original cabinets in Edwardian or Victorian homes can take more time and care, especially if you want to preserve details. Tight urban kitchens or condos may also mean higher costs due to access and parking challenges.
• Extent of damage: Moisture, mold, and pest damage can quickly turn a simple job into a multi-day project. If mold is present, expect extra charges for cleanup—mold remediation runs $15 to $30 per square foot.
• Permits and special considerations: Structural repairs or large-scale restorations sometimes require city permits. Though most cabinet repairs fly under the radar, it’s smart to ask your contractor if any extra paperwork or inspections are needed. Permits, if required, can add both time and cost.
• Timeline: Rush jobs may come with an upcharge, especially if you’re trying to meet a tight move-in date or complete emergency repairs after water damage.

Many San Francisco pros also prioritize eco-friendly practices. Using water-based finishes or green materials can change your final quote but may help maintain air quality in your home.

Tips for Comparing Quotes and Choosing Contractors

Cabinet repair is part art, part science. Getting the right team for your project can make all the difference. Here are some strategies to help you compare bids and hire with confidence:

• Ask for itemized estimates: Always request a breakdown that lists labor, materials, and any extra charges. This helps you spot big differences between quotes.
• Check licensing and insurance: In California, contractors should be licensed for most repair work. Make sure they’re insured to protect your property.
• Look for local experience: San Francisco’s homes are unique—your contractor should have experience with local buildings, from classic Victorians to modern condos.
• Review photos and references: A track record with before-and-after shots tells you what kind of results you can expect. Recent reviews from Bay Area homeowners can also highlight areas of strength and possible red flags.
• Ask about timelines: Learn how soon they can start, how long repairs will take, and who will be onsite. Delays are common if materials must be ordered or the job requires extra permits.
• Clarify the warranty: Many pros offer a guarantee on their work. Ask for it in writing and be sure you understand what’s covered.

When comparing two or three qualified bids, don’t automatically choose the cheapest. Sometimes, a higher quote delivers better results or avoids costly callbacks. If you’re trying to keep costs down, talk honestly with your contractor about your budget—they might know where you can save without skimping on quality.

Smart planning and careful hiring don’t just save money—they protect your home’s style and function for years to come.

DIY Cabinet Repair Tips for San Francisco Residents

Taking care of cabinet repairs yourself can save time and money, especially in San Francisco where professional rates can quickly add up. Plus, fixing minor issues right away helps your cabinets last longer and keeps your home looking sharp. Here are some easy and effective tips that San Franciscans can use for common cabinet problems before deciding to call in a pro.

Adjusting Hinges and Fixing Misaligned Doors

Cabinet doors that hang crooked or don’t close right are more than annoying—they can worsen over time if ignored. Usually, this is simple to fix with a screwdriver and a little patience. Here’s how you can get those doors swinging smoothly again:

• Tighten the screws: Use a Phillips screwdriver to tighten all screws on the hinges. Loose screws cause sagging and gaps.
• Adjust the hinge placement: Many cabinet hinges have small adjustment screws. These let you move the door up, down, left, or right without removing it. Small tweaks make a big difference.
• Fill stripped screw holes: If screws spin in place, remove them and squeeze some wood glue and toothpicks or a small dowel into the hole. Let it dry, then re-insert the screw for a snug fit.
• Check for binding against neighboring doors: Open both doors and close them together. If they rub, a small adjustment to the hinge position usually clears things up.

Don’t forget to support the door while adjusting, especially on older or heavier cabinets. This avoids extra strain and prevents accidental falls.

Surface Touch-Ups: Filling Scratches and Knicks

In a busy San Francisco household, cabinet surfaces take a beating. Scratches, small holes, and nicks are easy to spot but also easy to fix if you catch them early. Here’s what to do:

• Wood filler for deep scratches: Press wood filler into any gouges with a putty knife. Smooth it out and let it dry fully, then lightly sand until it’s flush with the rest of the cabinet.
• Touch-up markers for minor blemishes: For smaller scratches or worn spots, use a furniture marker or touch-up pen that matches your cabinet’s color.
• Clear coat or wax repair stick: Buff out fine scratches on finished cabinets with a soft cloth and a little polishing compound or a wax stick.
• Paint or finish repairs: If your repairs leave visible spots, touch up with a matching paint or finish for a seamless look.

Work in good light and wipe surfaces clean first to prevent dust from mixing into repairs. For painted cabinets, keep a small pot of matching paint on hand for future touch-ups.

Replacing Hardware and Drawer Slides

Most cabinet hardware will eventually show signs of age or just stop working right. When it does, switching out knobs, pulls, or drawer slides is a quick way to upgrade both function and appearance:

• Remove old hardware
  • Use a screwdriver to take off pulls, knobs, or handles.
  • Unscrew drawer slides from both the drawer and the cabinet box.
• Choose new pieces
  • Match sizes and screw hole spacing for easy installation.
  • Opt for rust-resistant hardware—San Francisco’s humidity can cause cheaper metal to fail.
• Install carefully
  • Align new pulls and handles using a template to keep things straight.
  • For drawer slides, follow the included instructions. Make sure drawers open and close smoothly before tightening all screws.

Tip: If you’re drilling new holes for hardware, cover the spot with masking tape first to avoid splintered wood. Measure twice before you drill!

Supplies Checklist for DIY Repairs

Before you start your repairs, make sure you have the basic tools and supplies. This saves frustration and prevents last-minute runs to the hardware store. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Drill and drill bits
• Tape measure
• Wood glue
• Toothpicks or wooden dowels
• Wood filler or putty
• Putty knife
• Fine-grit sandpaper (180–220 grit)
• Touch-up markers or wax sticks
• Small paintbrush or foam brush
• Masking tape
• Screws, knobs, pulls, hinges, and drawer slides (as needed)
• Safety gear (gloves, dust mask, safety glasses)

Many of these items already live in most toolboxes, but double-check before you start.

When to Hire a Professional

DIY repairs are great for routine fixes, but some situations call for expert help. Don’t risk your safety or the condition of your home on tasks that go beyond simple tune-ups. Call a pro if you run into:

• Structural or water damage: If a cabinet box is soft, sagging, or warped from water, this often points to bigger problems. Pros can assess and fix the cause, not just the symptom.
• Mold or musty smells: Often a sign of ongoing moisture. Remediation and repairs may need special skills and safety gear.
• Cabinet refacing or full refinishing: Applying new veneers or paint for a showroom look requires careful preparation, specialized materials, and sometimes spray equipment.
• Custom fit or specialty cabinets: Unique shapes, older buildings, or historic finishes are better left to experienced technicians.
• Damaged or missing doors/drawers: Building new doors or boxes to match existing cabinets can be tricky if you lack woodworking experience or specialized tools.

Trying to fix these problems on your own can end up costing more in the long run. Professionals in San Francisco are used to the city’s unique building codes, climate, and character, so they know how to deliver results that last.

Efficient cabinet maintenance combines basic skills, the right tools, and a clear sense of your limits. With good planning, you can keep your cabinets looking sharp, running smoothly, and standing strong for years.

Conclusion

Timely cabinet repair keeps your property looking sharp and adds real value, especially in a city like San Francisco where style and condition matter. Whether you’re after a small touch-up or a more ambitious fix, restoring your cabinets saves money and supports sustainability by reducing waste.

You can start with a quick inspection of your own cabinets. Handle smaller jobs yourself or call a trusted pro for more complex work. Both routes make sense in the Bay Area, where quality jobs from experienced specialists can cut costs and speed up the process compared to full replacement.

Keeping your cabinets fresh protects your investment and preserves the character of your home. Thanks for reading—if you found any helpful ideas, feel free to share your experience or tips in the comments below. Your home deserves that extra care.