<p>A kitchen update is exciting, but let’s be honest—the budget is usually the first thing on everyone’s mind. You want a beautiful, high-impact change without the stress and expense of a total gut job. That’s where your cabinets come in. Giving them a new look is the fastest way to transform your kitchen, and you have two great options: painting or refacing. To make the right choice, you need a clear picture of the <strong>cost of painting kitchen cabinets vs refacing</strong>. This guide is designed to give you just that. We’ll explore what goes into each price tag, from materials to labor, so you can plan your project with confidence.</p><div data-mega-embed="true"><meta charset="utf8"><meta content="width=device-width,initial-scale=1" name="viewport"><title>CTA Button</title><style>.cta-container[[INVALID_TOKEN]].cta-button[[INVALID_TOKEN]].cta-button:hover{background:#fff;color:#333;box-shadow:0 6px 20px rgba(124,179,66,.4)}.cta-button:active[[INVALID_TOKEN]].cta-button:focus[[INVALID_TOKEN]]@media (max-width:768px){.cta-button[[INVALID_TOKEN]]}</style><!-- Demo with blue background similar to your site --><div style="background:linear-gradient(135deg,#1e3c72,#2a5298);height:400px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center"><div><a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/contact-us/">REQUEST YOUR FREE ESTIMATE</a></div></div><!-- Code you can copy for your Scorpion site --><div style="background:#f9f9f9;padding:40px;margin-top:40px"><h3 style="text-align:center;margin-bottom:20px;color:#333">Copy this code for your Scorpion site:</h3><pre style="background:#f0f0f0;padding:20px;border-radius:8px;overflow-x:auto;font-size:12px"><style>
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</pre></div></div><h2>Key Takeaways</h2><ul><li><strong><a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/blog/2010/january/should-you-repaint-or-replace-your-kitchen-cabin/">Choose painting for a budget-friendly refresh; choose refacing for a total style transformation</a></strong>: Painting is the perfect solution when your cabinets are in good shape but need a color update. Refacing is the better investment when you want to completely change the door style without a full remodel.</li><li><strong>The condition of your cabinets is a major deciding factor</strong>: If your cabinet boxes are structurally sound, both options are on the table. However, if your doors are warped, damaged, or a style you dislike, refacing offers a more practical and durable solution than simply painting over the problem.</li><li><strong>A professional finish is all about the prep work</strong>: The longevity of both painted and refaced cabinets depends entirely on the quality of the preparation. Hiring a specialist ensures meticulous cleaning, sanding, and priming, which is the key to a durable, factory-like finish that withstands daily use.</li></ul><h2>Painting vs. Refacing Cabinets: What's the Real Cost?</h2><p>When you’re ready for a kitchen refresh but not a full-scale remodel, your cabinets are the perfect place to start. The big question is often whether to paint or reface them. While both can completely transform your space, they come with very different price tags. Understanding the real cost of each option helps you make a smart investment in your home.</p><p>Painting is almost always the more budget-friendly route, giving your existing cabinets a fresh, modern look for a fraction of the cost of replacement. Refacing, on the other hand, involves a bigger investment because you’re getting brand-new doors and drawer fronts. The right choice depends on your budget, the condition of your current cabinets, and the final look you’re hoping to achieve. Let’s break down the numbers so you can see where your project might land.</p><h3>How Much Does Cabinet Painting Cost?</h3><p>Professional <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/services/cabinet-painting-and-refinishing/">cabinet painting</a> is a fantastic way to get a high-end look without the high-end cost. Generally, you can expect the price to range from $1,500 to $5,000. The final quote depends heavily on the size of your kitchen and the number of cabinet doors and drawers you have. This price typically includes the essential prep work—thorough cleaning, sanding, and priming—which is key to a durable, factory-like finish. It also covers the high-quality paint and the skilled labor required to get the job done right. It’s a cost-effective solution that delivers a major visual impact.</p><h3>How Much Does Cabinet Refacing Cost?</h3><p>Cabinet refacing is a more involved process, and its cost reflects that. On average, homeowners spend around $7,000 on refacing, with most projects falling somewhere between $4,000 and $10,000. The reason for the higher price is that you’re not just changing the color; you’re replacing all your cabinet doors and drawer fronts and applying a new veneer to the cabinet boxes. This allows you to completely change the style of your cabinetry. The final cost to reface cabinets can vary quite a bit depending on the materials you choose, such as laminate, thermofoil, or real wood veneers.</p><h3>Don't Forget These Hidden Costs</h3><p>Whichever path you choose, it’s smart to budget for a few extra costs that might not appear on the initial estimate. New hardware, like knobs, pulls, and hinges, can make a huge difference but can also add a few hundred dollars to your total. If your cabinet boxes have any existing damage, like water warping or broken frames, those repairs will need to be addressed before any work can begin. Finally, once your cabinets look brand new, you might find that other parts of your kitchen suddenly look a little dated, which could inspire you to budget for a new backsplash or a fresh coat of paint on the walls.</p><h2>What Factors Influence Your Final Price?</h2><p>When you get a quote for a kitchen cabinet project, the final number isn't pulled out of thin air. Several key factors determine whether your project lands on the lower or higher end of the price spectrum. Understanding these variables helps you set a realistic budget and see exactly where your money is going, whether you choose to paint or reface. From the sheer number of cabinet doors to the type of finish you choose, each decision plays a part in the total investment. Let's break down the four biggest factors that will shape your final quote.</p><h3>How Size and Layout Affect the Quote</h3><p>The most straightforward factor influencing your project's cost is the size of your kitchen. A larger kitchen with more cabinets, an island, and a walk-in pantry will naturally require more materials and labor than a small galley kitchen. It’s not just about square footage, but the total surface area that needs to be prepped and finished. The layout also matters. Intricate designs, hard-to-reach corners, or custom features can increase the time our team spends on prep work and application, which is reflected in the quote. This is why the average cost for a project like refacing can range so widely—a project for a small, simple kitchen will be thousands less than one for a large, complex space.</p><h3>Why Your Choice of Paint and Materials Matters</h3><p>The materials you select are a major driver of the final cost. Generally, a professional <a href="https://allbrightpainting.com/services/cabinet-painting/">cabinet painting</a> project is more budget-friendly than refacing. For painting, the price can vary based on the type of primer and paint required for your specific cabinet material (e.g., wood vs. laminate). High-quality, durable paints cost more upfront but deliver a longer-lasting finish that resists chipping and wear. For refacing, your options expand to different veneers, like affordable laminates or premium solid wood. Each choice comes with a different price tag, allowing you to decide where you want to invest. Choosing top-tier materials for either process ensures your kitchen looks great for years to come.</p><h3>How Your Cabinets' Current Condition Plays a Role</h3><p>The starting condition of your cabinets is a critical piece of the pricing puzzle. If your cabinet boxes are structurally sound and just need a cosmetic update, painting is an excellent and cost-effective choice. However, if your cabinets have peeling veneer, water damage, or warped doors, they will need significant repairs before any paint can be applied. This extra labor and material for restoration will add to the cost. In some cases, if the damage is extensive or you simply can't stand your old cabinet style anymore, refacing becomes the more practical investment. A thorough initial inspection helps us determine the best path forward for a flawless result.</p><h3>The Cost of Labor vs. Your Time (DIY)</h3><p>Deciding between a DIY project and hiring professionals comes down to a trade-off between your money and your time. While tackling <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/blog/2025/november/kitchen-cabinet-refinishing-cost-a-full-breakdow/">cabinet painting</a> yourself is the cheapest option on paper, it demands a huge time commitment, specialized tools, and a good amount of skill to get a smooth, professional-looking finish. A DIY mistake can lead to drips, bubbles, and peeling paint that costs more to fix down the line. Hiring a professional team means you’re paying for expertise, efficiency, and peace of mind. You get a guaranteed, high-quality result without sacrificing your weekends or living in a chaotic construction zone for weeks on end.</p><h2>Which Option is Right for Your Kitchen?</h2><p>Deciding between painting and refacing your kitchen cabinets can feel like a major crossroads in your home renovation journey. Both options can completely transform your space without the cost and chaos of a full-gut remodel, but they solve different problems and come with very different price tags. The best choice for you really comes down to three things: your budget, the condition of your current cabinets, and the final look you’re hoping to achieve.</p><p>If you’re happy with the style and layout of your kitchen but are tired of the color or finish, a professional paint job can be a game-changer. It’s a fantastic way to get a fresh, modern look for a fraction of the cost of other updates. On the other hand, if your cabinet doors are dated, damaged, or you’re dreaming of a whole new style—like moving from traditional raised panels to a sleek, contemporary flat-front—refacing is the more effective route. It gives you the appearance of brand-new cabinetry by replacing the doors and drawer fronts while keeping the existing cabinet boxes intact. Let’s break down the specifics of each to help you find the perfect fit for your home.</p><h3>The Pros and Cons of Painting Cabinets</h3><p>Painting is an incredibly popular choice for a reason. It’s the most budget-friendly way to make a significant impact, with professional <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/services/cabinet-painting-and-refinishing/">cabinet painting services</a> typically costing far less than refacing. You also have nearly unlimited color options, allowing you to perfectly match your kitchen’s new vibe.</p><p>However, painting is a surface-level change. It won’t alter the underlying style of your cabinet doors. If you have oak cabinets from the 90s, painting them will give you beautifully painted 90s-style cabinets. The other consideration is durability. While a professional finish is designed to last, painted surfaces in a high-traffic kitchen can be more prone to chipping or wear over time compared to the factory-finished veneers used in refacing. This means you might need to plan for occasional touch-ups down the road.</p><h3>The Pros and Cons of Refacing Cabinets</h3><p>Refacing is your best bet when you want a dramatic style overhaul without changing your kitchen’s layout. This process involves replacing all your cabinet doors and drawer fronts and then applying a new veneer to the visible parts of the cabinet boxes. The result is a kitchen that looks entirely new. You can change the wood species, style, and color all at once. This option also allows for other customizations, like adding matching panels to your appliances for a seamless, high-end look.</p><p>The main drawback is the cost. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost to reface cabinets is significantly higher than painting, often landing between $4,000 and $10,000. While it’s still more affordable than a full replacement, it’s a much larger investment than a paint job.</p><h3>Common Myths About Painting and Refacing</h3><p>One of the biggest myths is that cabinet painting is just a temporary fix that will inevitably chip and peel. While that can be true for a rushed DIY job, it’s not the case for professional work. With meticulous prep work, high-quality bonding primers, and durable topcoats, a professionally painted finish is built to withstand daily use for years. You can see the difference for yourself in our <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/our-portfolio/">portfolio of completed projects</a>.</p><p>Another common misconception is that refacing is a waste of money and you should just replace everything. In reality, if your cabinet boxes are in good structural shape, refacing is a smart, sustainable, and cost-effective way to get the look of a brand-new kitchen. It saves perfectly good materials from the landfill and saves you from the extra costs of demolition and installation.</p><h2>How Long Will Your New Cabinets Last?</h2><p>A kitchen update is an investment in your home's daily life and long-term value. So, when you’re deciding between painting and refacing, it’s not just about the look you’ll get tomorrow—it’s about how that look will hold up for years to come. The durability and required upkeep for each option are very different, and understanding them is key to making a choice you’ll be happy with down the road. One path requires a bit more TLC to stay looking fresh, while the other is built for long-term resilience. Let’s break down what you can realistically expect from both painted and refaced cabinets.</p><h3>The Lifespan of Professionally Painted Cabinets</h3><p>The longevity of painted cabinets hinges almost entirely on the quality of the preparation and application. A professional <a href="https://allbrightpainting.com/services/cabinet-painting/">cabinet painting</a> job involves meticulous cleaning, sanding, and priming to ensure the paint adheres properly and creates a hard, durable shell. When done correctly, a high-quality paint finish can look beautiful for 8 to 15 years. However, it’s important to remember that even the best paint job is still a surface coating. In a high-traffic area like the kitchen, painted cabinets are more susceptible to chipping, scratching, and showing wear, especially around knobs and handles where they’re touched most often.</p><h3>The Durability of Refaced Cabinets</h3><p>Cabinet refacing offers a more robust and long-lasting solution because it involves more than just a surface coating. During refacing, your cabinet boxes are covered with a new, durable material like a high-quality laminate or real wood veneer. Then, you get brand-new, factory-finished doors and drawer fronts. These materials are specifically engineered to withstand the heat, moisture, and daily use of a busy kitchen. Because the finish is applied in a controlled factory environment, it’s often tougher than a painted finish, making it highly resistant to chipping, peeling, and fading. A properly refaced kitchen can easily last 20 years or more, maintaining its fresh look with minimal effort.</p><h3>Factoring in Future Maintenance and Touch-Ups</h3><p>Thinking about long-term upkeep is crucial. With painted cabinets, you should plan for some maintenance. Over time, you’ll likely need to perform touch-ups to fix the inevitable nicks and chips that come from everyday life. While minor, this means keeping leftover paint on hand and being prepared to make small repairs every few years to keep them looking their best. Refaced cabinets, on the other hand, are a lower-maintenance choice. The durable surfaces are simple to wipe clean and are far less likely to get damaged. This often means you can enjoy a like-new kitchen for years without worrying about ongoing repairs, giving you a truly <a href="https://allbrightpainting.com/about-us/">worry-free experience</a>.</p><h2>What Does the Process Look Like?</h2><p>When you’re thinking about a kitchen update, the final look is exciting, but the process of getting there can feel a little daunting. Understanding what a project actually entails from start to finish can make all the difference in your decision. Both painting and refacing are detailed processes that require skill and patience, but they follow different paths to achieve that beautiful final result. Knowing the steps involved and how long your kitchen might be out of commission helps you plan your life around the work and sets clear expectations from the get-go. It’s one thing to see stunning before-and-after photos, but it’s another to know exactly what will be happening in your home day-to-day. Will you need to clear out your entire kitchen? Will there be a lot of dust? How long until you can put your coffee maker back on the counter? We believe a smooth, transparent process is just as important as a beautiful outcome. Let’s walk through what you can expect with each option, so you can visualize which process feels like a better fit for your home and lifestyle.</p><h3>The Cabinet Painting Process, Step-by-Step</h3><p>A professional <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/services/">cabinet painting</a> job is far more than just slapping on a quick coat of paint. To get that smooth, durable finish that looks like it came straight from the factory, there’s a meticulous preparation process. First, your cabinet doors and drawer fronts are carefully removed and often taken off-site to a controlled spray booth. Back in your kitchen, the cabinet boxes are prepped. Every surface is thoroughly cleaned to get rid of any built-up grease or grime, then sanded to create the perfect surface for primer to adhere to. Any dings or imperfections are repaired before a high-quality primer is applied. Finally, several coats of professional-grade paint are sprayed on, ensuring a flawless, long-lasting result.</p><h3>The Cabinet Refacing Process, Step-by-Step</h3><p>Cabinet refacing gives your kitchen a brand-new look while keeping your existing cabinet layout. The process starts with removing your old cabinet doors and drawer fronts. The front surfaces of your cabinet boxes are then prepared and covered with a new, high-quality wood or laminate veneer that matches your new cabinet style. This step is what really transforms the look of your existing framework. Once the boxes are resurfaced, brand-new, custom-made doors and drawer fronts are professionally installed. To complete the transformation, new hardware like handles, hinges, and pulls are put on. You get the appearance of a completely new set of cabinets without the cost and disruption of a full tear-out.</p><h3>How Long Will Your Kitchen Be Out of Commission?</h3><p>It’s the big question on every homeowner’s mind: How long will I be without my kitchen? For a professional paint job, you can typically expect the project to take several days. The detailed prep work and the necessary drying time between coats of primer and paint are crucial for a durable finish and can’t be rushed. Refacing can also take a few days, depending on the size of your kitchen. A professional team always works to minimize disruption. For painting, this often means taking doors and drawers off-site to be finished, which keeps your home cleaner. You can see the beautiful results of a well-managed project in <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/our-portfolio/">our portfolio</a>. You’ll still have access to your kitchen, just without doors for a bit</p><h2>Making the Best Choice for Your Home and Budget</h2><p>Deciding between painting and refacing often comes down to three things: the condition of your current cabinets, your vision for the space, and your budget. Both are fantastic ways to update your kitchen without the cost and chaos of a full remodel. Let’s break down which path might be the right one for you, helping you feel confident in your choice.</p><h3>When to Choose Painting</h3><p>Painting is your best bet when you’re happy with the layout of your kitchen and the style of your cabinet doors, but the finish is worn, dated, or just not your color. If your cabinet boxes and doors are still in good structural shape, a professional cabinet painting project can completely transform them for a fraction of the cost of replacement. It’s the most cost-effective option for a high-impact update that doesn’t break the bank. This is the perfect solution for giving a sturdy but tired kitchen a fresh, modern, and clean new look.</p><h3>When Refacing is Worth the Investment</h3><p>If your cabinet boxes are solid but the doors are damaged, warped, or you simply can’t stand the outdated style, refacing is worth the investment. This process involves replacing all the doors and drawer fronts and then applying a new veneer to the cabinet boxes to match. While it costs more than painting, it’s still significantly less than a full cabinet replacement. Refacing gives you a <a href="https://kitchencabinetguys.net/blogs/cabinet-refacing-vs-refinishing" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">complete style overhaul</a>, allowing you to switch from traditional arched doors to a sleek, modern Shaker design. It’s the ideal middle ground for achieving the look of a brand-new kitchen without the brand-new price tag.</p><h3>How Each Option Impacts Your Home's Resale Value</h3><p>A beautiful kitchen is one of the biggest selling points of a home, and both painting and refacing are excellent investments. A professionally painted kitchen looks fresh, bright, and well-maintained, which can seriously impress potential buyers and add to your home’s appeal. Refacing, on the other hand, offers the powerful visual impact of a brand-new kitchen. For buyers, seeing new doors and hardware can make the entire space feel more valuable and move-in ready. Whichever you choose, a high-quality, professional finish is what turns a simple update into a true value-add for your property.</p><h2>How to Hire the Right Pro for the Job</h2><p>Choosing the right professional for your cabinet project is just as important as deciding between painting and refacing. The quality of the workmanship will determine how your cabinets look and how well they hold up over time. A great contractor delivers a beautiful, durable finish and a stress-free experience, while the wrong one can leave you with a mess and a kitchen you can’t use. To make sure you find a team you can trust, it’s essential to know what to look for, what to ask, and which red flags to avoid.</p><h3>What to Look for in a Cabinet Contractor</h3><p>Cabinet painting isn’t just a smaller version of painting a room—it’s a highly specialized craft. You’ll want to find a contractor who has specific experience with cabinets, not just a general painter. A true cabinet pro understands the intensive prep work required, from degreasing and sanding to priming with the right products for a smooth, durable base. They also know how to achieve that flawless, factory-like finish, which usually involves spraying the doors and drawer fronts off-site in a controlled environment. When vetting a company, look for a detailed <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/our-portfolio/">portfolio of their work</a> that showcases a variety of cabinet projects. This proves they have the right skills and equipment to do the job correctly.</p><h3>Key Questions to Ask Before You Hire</h3><p>Once you have a few potential contractors in mind, it’s time to ask some pointed questions. Getting at least three estimates is a good start, but don’t just compare the final numbers. A quality contractor should be happy to explain their process and the value they provide.</p><p>Here are a few key questions to ask:</p><ul><li>Can you walk me through your step-by-step process?</li><li>What specific primers and paints do you use for cabinets and why?</li><li>Are you fully licensed and insured?</li><li>How will you protect my kitchen and the rest of my home during the project?</li><li>How long do you expect the project to take from start to finish?</li></ul><p>A professional team will have clear, confident answers that give you peace of mind.</p><h3>Red Flags to Watch Out For</h3><p>Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to look for. Be wary of any contractor who gives you a vague quote over the phone without seeing your kitchen first. A suspiciously low bid is another major red flag; it often means the contractor is cutting corners on prep work, using cheap materials, or doesn’t have proper insurance. If a company is hesitant to provide references or show you examples of their past work, consider it a deal-breaker. A reputable painter is proud of their results. Finally, be cautious of anyone who pressures you for a large upfront cash deposit. A trustworthy <a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/residential/">painting company</a> will have a professional payment schedule outlined in a clear, written contract.</p><h2>Related Articles</h2><ul><li><a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/blog/2010/january/should-you-repaint-or-replace-your-kitchen-cabin/">Should You Repaint or Replace Your Kitchen Cabinets</a></li><li><a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/blog/2025/december/a-simple-kitchen-cabinet-refinishing-cost-calcul/">Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Cost Calculator (2025)</a></li><li><a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/blog/2025/november/kitchen-cabinet-refinishing-cost-a-full-breakdow/">Kitchen Cabinet Refinishing Cost Breakdown</a></li></ul><div data-mega-embed="true"><meta charset="utf8"><meta content="width=device-width,initial-scale=1" name="viewport"><title>CTA Button</title><style>.cta-container[[INVALID_TOKEN]].cta-button[[INVALID_TOKEN]].cta-button:hover{background:#fff;color:#333;box-shadow:0 6px 20px rgba(124,179,66,.4)}.cta-button:active[[INVALID_TOKEN]].cta-button:focus[[INVALID_TOKEN]]@media (max-width:768px){.cta-button[[INVALID_TOKEN]]}</style><!-- Demo with blue background similar to your site --><div style="background:linear-gradient(135deg,#1e3c72,#2a5298);height:400px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center"><div><a href="https://www.allbrightpainting.com/contact-us/">REQUEST YOUR FREE ESTIMATE</a></div></div><!-- Code you can copy for your Scorpion site --><div style="background:#f9f9f9;padding:40px;margin-top:40px"><h3 style="text-align:center;margin-bottom:20px;color:#333">Copy this code for your Scorpion site:</h3><pre style="background:#f0f0f0;padding:20px;border-radius:8px;overflow-x:auto;font-size:12px"><style>
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font-weight: bold;
text-transform: uppercase;
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</pre></div></div><h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2><p><strong>Will painting my oak cabinets completely hide the wood grain?</strong> This is a fantastic question because it gets right to the heart of managing expectations. While a professional paint job will completely cover the color of the oak, the deep texture of the wood grain may still be subtly visible up close. Proper sanding and high-quality primer can minimize this texture significantly, creating a much smoother surface. However, it’s best to think of it as giving your cabinets a beautiful new color while retaining some of their natural character.</p><p><strong>How should I care for my newly painted cabinets to make them last?</strong> The best way to protect your investment is with a simple and gentle cleaning routine. For everyday smudges, a soft, damp cloth is usually all you need. If you encounter something tougher, use a mild soap and water solution. The key is to avoid harsh chemical cleaners or abrasive sponges, as these can wear down the finish over time. Wiping up spills, especially around the sink, as soon as they happen will also go a long way in keeping your cabinets looking flawless for years.</p><p><strong>Can you paint any type of cabinet, like laminate or thermofoil?</strong> Yes, but this is where hiring a true professional really matters. Painting non-wood surfaces like laminate or thermofoil requires a very specific preparation process and specialized bonding primers. Without the right products and techniques, the paint simply won't stick for the long haul. A skilled team will know exactly how to prep these slick surfaces to create a durable, lasting finish that looks just as beautiful as it would on wood.</p><p><strong>If I choose to reface, am I limited to the same cabinet style I have now?</strong> Not at all! This is actually one of the biggest advantages of refacing. Because you are getting brand-new doors and drawer fronts, you have the freedom to completely change the style of your kitchen. You can easily go from a traditional raised-panel door to a clean and modern Shaker style or a sleek, flat-front design. It’s the perfect way to get a totally new look without altering your kitchen’s existing layout.</p><p><strong>Why is it a red flag if a contractor gives me a quote over the phone?</strong> A reputable contractor will always insist on seeing your kitchen in person before providing a final quote. Every kitchen is different, and an accurate price depends on factors that can’t be seen over the phone, like the exact number of doors and drawers, the current condition of the cabinets, and the complexity of your kitchen's layout. An in-person assessment ensures the quote is fair and comprehensive, preventing surprise costs down the line. It’s a sign that the contractor is thorough and professional.</p>