reface

Reface is a term used in several trades to describe the act of applying a new outer layer or surface to something, or the new surface itself. As a verb, it means to replace or renew the facing on a surface. As a noun, a refacing can refer to the material or process used to provide that new facing. The word derives from the root face, with the prefix re- indicating renewal or replacement.

In construction and architecture, refacing refers to updating the exterior or interior surfaces of a building by installing a new facing material, such as veneer, tile, brick, stone, or metal. Refacing can improve aesthetics, protect underlying structures, or address wear and weathering without a full rebuild. It may involve removing damaged facing and installing new panels or coatings, and it often aims to preserve the original layout while changing its appearance.

In woodworking and cabinetry, refacing typically means replacing the visible surfaces of cabinet doors and drawer fronts or applying new veneer to existing components. This can refresh a kitchen or furniture piece without replacing its entire structure, and may include updating hardware, edges, and alignment.

In dentistry, cosmetic refacing is a procedure that reshapes or overlays the visible portion of a tooth using enameloplasty, veneers, or similar techniques to improve symmetry and color.

Other uses include industrial contexts where a bearing surface or a machined face is resurfaced to restore accuracy, and in popular culture, where Reface is the name of a mobile app that performs face-swapping using images and videos.