Kitchens Are Now The Central Room Of The House
Author: Bruce Lipski
Over the years, the kitchen has developed into the most popular room in the house. Where else can you snack, eat, talk, gather, and drink? We have to eat three times a day and so the kitchen has always gotten a lot of use.
In the last 20 or so years, realizing how many things kitchens are used for and how much use they get, builders started making houses with larger kitchens. Gone are the small kitchens that have only the basics and only enough room for a couple people at a time to stand in. They have been replaced with much larger kitchens with such amenities as kitchen islands, bars, multiple sinks, fancy lighting, and very large refregerators.
The new modern kitchen is designed to be the central gathering place in the house, if need be. A house with a beautiful large kitchen is so much easier to sell than a house with a small kitchen. Everything is being made larger now and that includes everying that goes in a kitchen. Some kitchens have dual dishwashing units as though one wasn't enough. Refrigerators have developed into huge units that come in extra wide and tall sizes. Kitchen sinks can have as many as one, two, or three bowel for multiple uses. Kitchen islands, once unheard of, continue to get bigger and bigger. Many kitchen islands now include the stove and/or the kitchen sink.
Because of this increase in popularity, kitchen design has become big business. There are huge sections in home improvement stores just devoted to the kitchen. Large varieties of kitchen cabinets, kitchen blinds, kitchen sinks, kitchen stoves, and kitchen islands can be designed and bought. You can hire companies to come in and evaluate your kitchen and give you ideas on how to upgrade it.
Kitchen lighting also plays a big pert in the overall feel and style of your kichten. Many new kitchens come with fancey track lighting that is used to highlight certain areas and make the kitchen seem bigger than it is. The right use of kitchen lighting can go a long way in modernizing your kitchen.
When people look at a new home, the most important room seems to be the kitchen. The kitchen was once just another room in the house and all it had to do was function properly. Now, however, the kitchen has to work and look great at the same time. Is it time to take another look at what can be improved in your kitchen?
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/interior-design-articles/kitchens-are-now-the-central-room-of-the-house-592420.html
About the Author:
Are you looking for some great kitchen color ideas ? If you are looking for kitchen floor ideas or any other ideas to make your kichen look better, please visit my website Kitchen Design Ideas .
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
10 Things to Do to Remodel Your Kitchen Faster
Author: Dan Fritschen
Remodeling a kitchen can be a very big job. Depending on the extent of the remodeling project, remodeling a kitchen can take weeks or even months. There are, however, some things you can do to remodel your kitchen faster. The ten ideas listed below will get you started on ways to remodel your kitchen faster and still have a finished room that shows quality work and attention to details. 1. Work with the existing space if at all possible. Moving walls takes a great deal of time. It is also costly. If you are trying to update or remodel, try to think creatively about how you can make better use of the existing space. If you are trying to enlarge the kitchen, try to do so by moving or removing only one wall. This will reduce the amount of electrical work, as well as the amount of framing and drywall work necessary. 2. Don’t move the sink. Moving plumbing also takes a great deal of time, and adds significant cost to your project. Even if you are replacing the sink, keeping it in the same location will save the time of rerouting pipes, which could also result in the need for work to replace flooring. 3. Don’t move a gas line or gas appliances. Moving a gas line will take additional time in completing your kitchen remodel. In many localities, this will require the assistance of a professional. You will need to schedule this work and allow the time necessary to move the line and then make any necessary repairs to walls and flooring. 4. Choose standard-sized pre-built stock cabinets. These cabinets will probably be available for immediate pick-up or delivery, eliminating the wait for custom work and delivery. These stock cabinets will be ready to simply set in place and attach to walls or floor. This saves the assembly time required for special-order cabinets and the on-site construction time for custom cabinets. 5. If you choose custom or semi-custom cabinets, pitch in and assemble the cabinets yourself for your contractor. Assembling pre-cut cabinets is not terribly difficult if you have some do-it-yourself remodeling experience. Assembling cabinets takes time, however. If you can assemble the cabinets in advance and have them ready for your contractor or for installation, you will save time during the actual remodeling project. 6. Use large stock cabinets to make a pantry instead of building a closet. This saves the time of knocking out wall, re-framing for the closet, hanging the drywall, etc. You might even find that you prefer the appearance of the matched cabinetry throughout your remodeled kitchen. 7. Reface instead of replacing your cabinets. If your existing cabinets are in reasonably good condition, have them refaced instead of replacing them. This will also save time. In some cases, the actual work can be done in a day. 8. Install a new countertop. A new countertop will make your remodeled kitchen look bright and clean. Your choice of countertop material could completely change the appearance of your kitchen. 9. Don’t install a backsplash. If you are trying to remodel your kitchen faster, don’t take the time to install or replace a backsplash. Tile installation takes some time to set and allow it to dry completely. If you are in a hurry, leave this for a weekend project at some point in the future. 10. If you are building a window seat, save construction time by installing stock cabinets as the base for the seat. You can easily find stock cabinets the right height for a seat. Just choose cabinets that match or complement your kitchen cabinets. Then you need only position the boards on top of the cabinets and add cushions. These ten ideas can save time on your kitchen remodel. You will probably think of others as you begin planning your project. But you can make a good start with these ten things to do to remodel your kitchen faster. Copyright 2008 by ABCD Publishing
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/10-things-to-do-to-remodel-your-kitchen-faster-584130.html
About the Author:
Dan Fritschen, Publisher at ABCD Publishing, is a consultant to both individuals and businesses who are trying to decide whether to remodel or move. ABCD publishing currently owns two helpful websites, www.remodelormove.com and www.remodelestimates.com.
Remodeling a kitchen can be a very big job. Depending on the extent of the remodeling project, remodeling a kitchen can take weeks or even months. There are, however, some things you can do to remodel your kitchen faster. The ten ideas listed below will get you started on ways to remodel your kitchen faster and still have a finished room that shows quality work and attention to details. 1. Work with the existing space if at all possible. Moving walls takes a great deal of time. It is also costly. If you are trying to update or remodel, try to think creatively about how you can make better use of the existing space. If you are trying to enlarge the kitchen, try to do so by moving or removing only one wall. This will reduce the amount of electrical work, as well as the amount of framing and drywall work necessary. 2. Don’t move the sink. Moving plumbing also takes a great deal of time, and adds significant cost to your project. Even if you are replacing the sink, keeping it in the same location will save the time of rerouting pipes, which could also result in the need for work to replace flooring. 3. Don’t move a gas line or gas appliances. Moving a gas line will take additional time in completing your kitchen remodel. In many localities, this will require the assistance of a professional. You will need to schedule this work and allow the time necessary to move the line and then make any necessary repairs to walls and flooring. 4. Choose standard-sized pre-built stock cabinets. These cabinets will probably be available for immediate pick-up or delivery, eliminating the wait for custom work and delivery. These stock cabinets will be ready to simply set in place and attach to walls or floor. This saves the assembly time required for special-order cabinets and the on-site construction time for custom cabinets. 5. If you choose custom or semi-custom cabinets, pitch in and assemble the cabinets yourself for your contractor. Assembling pre-cut cabinets is not terribly difficult if you have some do-it-yourself remodeling experience. Assembling cabinets takes time, however. If you can assemble the cabinets in advance and have them ready for your contractor or for installation, you will save time during the actual remodeling project. 6. Use large stock cabinets to make a pantry instead of building a closet. This saves the time of knocking out wall, re-framing for the closet, hanging the drywall, etc. You might even find that you prefer the appearance of the matched cabinetry throughout your remodeled kitchen. 7. Reface instead of replacing your cabinets. If your existing cabinets are in reasonably good condition, have them refaced instead of replacing them. This will also save time. In some cases, the actual work can be done in a day. 8. Install a new countertop. A new countertop will make your remodeled kitchen look bright and clean. Your choice of countertop material could completely change the appearance of your kitchen. 9. Don’t install a backsplash. If you are trying to remodel your kitchen faster, don’t take the time to install or replace a backsplash. Tile installation takes some time to set and allow it to dry completely. If you are in a hurry, leave this for a weekend project at some point in the future. 10. If you are building a window seat, save construction time by installing stock cabinets as the base for the seat. You can easily find stock cabinets the right height for a seat. Just choose cabinets that match or complement your kitchen cabinets. Then you need only position the boards on top of the cabinets and add cushions. These ten ideas can save time on your kitchen remodel. You will probably think of others as you begin planning your project. But you can make a good start with these ten things to do to remodel your kitchen faster. Copyright 2008 by ABCD Publishing
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/10-things-to-do-to-remodel-your-kitchen-faster-584130.html
About the Author:
Dan Fritschen, Publisher at ABCD Publishing, is a consultant to both individuals and businesses who are trying to decide whether to remodel or move. ABCD publishing currently owns two helpful websites, www.remodelormove.com and www.remodelestimates.com.
Shopping for Kitchen Cabinets: Choosing the Right Kitchen Cabinet for your Price Range
Author: Gary Nealon
Kitchen Cabinets are by and large the core of any kitchen. They can be highlighted by kitchen appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, cooktop, dishwasher and microwave, or these appliances can be modified to blend in by using panels that match your kitchen cabinets.
Shopping for kitchen cabinets can be intimidating, especially for a first time buyer. There are hundreds/thousands of major kitchen cabinet companies, and many more smaller custom kitchen cabinet shops where you can get any cabinet made from any species of wood that your mind can imagine. Add to that list the explosion of RTA Kitchen Cabinet importers, and the laminated cabinet manufacturers, and suddenly the list can be overwhelming. Not to mention the fact that higher price always means high quality in construction, or more features being available.
In the past, pricing had always been the way to categorize kitchen cabinets. Traditionally, tthe higher-quality cabinets simply cost more money. As I mentioned before, with more and more importers conforming to the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association) building standards, some of the RTA Kitchen Cabinets or Stock kitchen cabinets can actually be a sturdier cabinet than the traditional, made to order cabinets. Regardless of what type of kitchen cabinet you decide to go with, it does not take much effort to spend tens of thousands of dollars on the actual kitchen cabinets.
Most kitchen cabinet manufacturers build their kitchen base and wall cabinets in standard sizes. The kitchen base cabinets are often 34.5 inches tall and 24 inches deep. They come in widths starting at 12 inches and can go up to 48 inches often in increasing width increments of 3 inches. Kitchen wall cabinets are often 12 inches deep and 30 inches or 42 inches tall. They also come in the same size widths as the base cabinets. Wall cabinets also come in several different heights and depths for locations such as over the refrigerator or over the microwave/hood range unit. With custom kitchen cabinets, you have even more choices available, since the kitchen cabinets will be created specifically for your kitchen space.
Different semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers make different-sized kitchen cabinets for all sorts of special looks and situations. It is not uncommon to have one cabinet extend beyond adjacent cabinets to create a distinguished look. It pays to shop around to see all of the different possibilities and special cabinet features offered by the custom and semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers.
One of the biggest advantages to true custom kitchen cabinets is the ability to make one giant base or wall kitchen cabinet instead of separate boxes that are screwed together by the installer at the jobsite. A custom-cabinet maker can easily make one giant base cabinet 8 feet long that installs as if it were a piece of furniture. The same is true for wall kitchen cabinets. The advantage of this method is the lack of vertical seams where two traditional cabinet boxes would mate up to one another.
Pay particular attention to the materials used to build the kitchen cabinets. Some kitchen cabinets are made with minimal-quality engineered lumber, particleboard, or fiberboard. . If you plan to load a wall cabinet with heavy traditional china, the weight of the dishes may cause the cabinet to pull apart over time. This is particularly true when it comes to the semi-custom cabinets that the name brand cabinet manufacturers sell at the big box stores (which is why price is not always an accurate gauge of cabinet quality). Many of the RTA Kitchen Cabinet manufacturers use solid plywood sides, which obviously creates a strong kitchen cabinet box than a particleboard or fiberboard box. When it comes to custom cabinets, the material choices are endless and can usually be specified by the customer.
Another factor that will determine the price of kitchen cabinets is the material used to hold it together. Custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers will often use a combination of dovetailed joints, wood biscuits, and glue to create tight joints. Mid-grade kitchen cabinets will have a wide range of materials holding them together (staples and nails on the lower end, to cam lock assembly and wood glue on the higher end). Most RTA Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers utilize the cam lock system, which creates a nice sturdy cabinet, and when enhanced with wood glue, can last a life time. Steer away from any kitchen cabinets that are using staples, wooden dowels, or just screws. The strength of the cabinet will be compromised at the joints with these weaker joining materials.
I have been remodeling houses for over 10 years, and have been able to weed out some of the kitchen cabinet choices that didn't work for me. If you are interested in learning more about my personal preferences, check out my author bio.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/shopping-for-kitchen-cabinets-choosing-the-right-kitchen-cabinet-for-your-price-range-278549.html
About the Author:
Looking to upgrade your bathroom with a decorative bathroom vanity , or simply replace your bathroom vanity ? Check out the Bathroom Vanity Store .
Kitchen Cabinets are by and large the core of any kitchen. They can be highlighted by kitchen appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, cooktop, dishwasher and microwave, or these appliances can be modified to blend in by using panels that match your kitchen cabinets.
Shopping for kitchen cabinets can be intimidating, especially for a first time buyer. There are hundreds/thousands of major kitchen cabinet companies, and many more smaller custom kitchen cabinet shops where you can get any cabinet made from any species of wood that your mind can imagine. Add to that list the explosion of RTA Kitchen Cabinet importers, and the laminated cabinet manufacturers, and suddenly the list can be overwhelming. Not to mention the fact that higher price always means high quality in construction, or more features being available.
In the past, pricing had always been the way to categorize kitchen cabinets. Traditionally, tthe higher-quality cabinets simply cost more money. As I mentioned before, with more and more importers conforming to the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association) building standards, some of the RTA Kitchen Cabinets or Stock kitchen cabinets can actually be a sturdier cabinet than the traditional, made to order cabinets. Regardless of what type of kitchen cabinet you decide to go with, it does not take much effort to spend tens of thousands of dollars on the actual kitchen cabinets.
Most kitchen cabinet manufacturers build their kitchen base and wall cabinets in standard sizes. The kitchen base cabinets are often 34.5 inches tall and 24 inches deep. They come in widths starting at 12 inches and can go up to 48 inches often in increasing width increments of 3 inches. Kitchen wall cabinets are often 12 inches deep and 30 inches or 42 inches tall. They also come in the same size widths as the base cabinets. Wall cabinets also come in several different heights and depths for locations such as over the refrigerator or over the microwave/hood range unit. With custom kitchen cabinets, you have even more choices available, since the kitchen cabinets will be created specifically for your kitchen space.
Different semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers make different-sized kitchen cabinets for all sorts of special looks and situations. It is not uncommon to have one cabinet extend beyond adjacent cabinets to create a distinguished look. It pays to shop around to see all of the different possibilities and special cabinet features offered by the custom and semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers.
One of the biggest advantages to true custom kitchen cabinets is the ability to make one giant base or wall kitchen cabinet instead of separate boxes that are screwed together by the installer at the jobsite. A custom-cabinet maker can easily make one giant base cabinet 8 feet long that installs as if it were a piece of furniture. The same is true for wall kitchen cabinets. The advantage of this method is the lack of vertical seams where two traditional cabinet boxes would mate up to one another.
Pay particular attention to the materials used to build the kitchen cabinets. Some kitchen cabinets are made with minimal-quality engineered lumber, particleboard, or fiberboard. . If you plan to load a wall cabinet with heavy traditional china, the weight of the dishes may cause the cabinet to pull apart over time. This is particularly true when it comes to the semi-custom cabinets that the name brand cabinet manufacturers sell at the big box stores (which is why price is not always an accurate gauge of cabinet quality). Many of the RTA Kitchen Cabinet manufacturers use solid plywood sides, which obviously creates a strong kitchen cabinet box than a particleboard or fiberboard box. When it comes to custom cabinets, the material choices are endless and can usually be specified by the customer.
Another factor that will determine the price of kitchen cabinets is the material used to hold it together. Custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers will often use a combination of dovetailed joints, wood biscuits, and glue to create tight joints. Mid-grade kitchen cabinets will have a wide range of materials holding them together (staples and nails on the lower end, to cam lock assembly and wood glue on the higher end). Most RTA Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers utilize the cam lock system, which creates a nice sturdy cabinet, and when enhanced with wood glue, can last a life time. Steer away from any kitchen cabinets that are using staples, wooden dowels, or just screws. The strength of the cabinet will be compromised at the joints with these weaker joining materials.
I have been remodeling houses for over 10 years, and have been able to weed out some of the kitchen cabinet choices that didn't work for me. If you are interested in learning more about my personal preferences, check out my author bio.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/shopping-for-kitchen-cabinets-choosing-the-right-kitchen-cabinet-for-your-price-range-278549.html
About the Author:
Looking to upgrade your bathroom with a decorative bathroom vanity , or simply replace your bathroom vanity ? Check out the Bathroom Vanity Store .
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Kitchen Countertops: Choosing Which Option is Right for your Kitchen Cabinet Countertop
Kitchen Countertops: Choosing Which Option is Right for your Kitchen Cabinet Countertop
Author: Gary Nealon
Choosing a countertop for your kitchen cabinets can be overwhelming. Depending on your taste and budget, kitchen countertops can be a very expensive investment. Laminate countertops that have been the industry kitchen cabinets standard for decades, but now there are a wide variety of solid core, stone and butcher block countertops to choose from.
Let's talk about Laminate Countertops. This is by far your least expensive option. The typical laminate countertops for kitchen cabinets now are up to 400% more durable than they were just ten years ago. They are more resistant to scratching scuffing and burning. They also come in a huge variety of colors, textures and patterns and finishes. The drawback to laminate is that they CAN be affected by excess heat, say from a pot, and the edges will be exposed. If you are looking for a clean look and durability, laminate countertops will not be your best choice.
Let's talk about finishes. There are three main types of finishes. Gloss, semi-gloss or satin and textured.
Gloss finish is very shiny. It can mimic with great success, stone like polished granite and marble on your kitchen cabinets. It is, though more durable than in the past, the finish that is most prone to scratching and scuffing. It also can show wipe marks more often. So, using this finish above your kitchen cabinets in front of a window or strong light is not usually a good idea. Using a light color will help hide wipe marks. This is a finish you would prefer in an area where your kitchen cabinets get the least amount of use. Using counter protectors on your kitchen cabinets is a good idea with this finish.
Semi-gloss or satin finishes on your countertops are more durable and easier to keep clean because they don't show wipe marks as easily and are more resistant to scratching and scuffing. This finish is the most popular for today's kitchen cabinets. Expect to get many years of service out of a laminate counter with this finish on you kitchen cabinets countertops..
Textured finishes on your countertops can add a lot of interest, but are harder to clean if the texture is very deep. In a deep texture, dirt and grime can settle into the bottom of the grooves, wrinkles or patterns and be a nuisance to clean. Another problem in high use areas is the tendency to wear on the high spots of the texture. This finish on your kitchen cabinets countertops works best in a low light, warm setting like bars and game rooms.
Let's move on to Solid Surface Countertops. Solid core or solid surface countertops are used mainly where you want to eliminate any visible seams in your. They are as durable or more durable than laminate kitchen cabinets countertops but lack the obvious seam line that laminate kitchen cabinets counters inherently have. Sinks and drop levels can be incorporated into one visibly seamless kitchen cabinets countertop. They can also be repaired. This is because the color and pattern goes all the way through the surface. Expect to pay more for this kitchen cabinets countertop material.
Wooden kitchen cabinets countertops, or butcher block tops, are obviously not as durable as other materials. While they are not as durable, they actually get better looking as they get older. As scratches and wear begin to take their toll, butcher block counters become more interesting and warm feeling. They are re-finishable and can last for many years. We recommend still using a cutting board for slicing meat and vegetables, since it is much easier to scrub the bacteria out of a cutting board than out of your kitchen cabinets counter. Be fore-warned, there will be some upkeep with butcher block kitchen countertops. Follow the manufacturers recommendations on care. This material goes well with country or rustic lodge style kitchens.
Another option for your kitchen cabinet countertops would be tile. The options for tiles are endless.... from ceramic, to porcelein, to marble, each one will offer it's unique properties and challenges. While this is a cost effective solution when looking for a countertop for your kitchen cabinets, it also presents some of the biggest maintenance issues. Ceramic tiles will tend to crack if something hits them or if they are not laid properly. You also have to worry about grout lines, which need to be sealed and cleaned properly, since they will have a tendency to accumulate dirt and debris. It also makes it harder to wipe down your kitchen cabinet countertops.
Stone kitchen cabinets countertops usually are you most expensive but most durable. Nothing says wealth and class like stone or marble on your kitchen cabinets. The most important aspect of stone is the installation and finishing. Choose a contractor with lots of experience and a excellent reputation.
Once of the newest trends in kitchen cabinet countertops is concrete. Concrete kitchen countertops provide the durability of solid surface or stone countertops, a wide variety of stains and finishes, and a more attractive price than stone. It can also be poured in unique designs to match the flow of your kitchen cabinets. With concrete kitchen countertops, it is important to find a contractor who has poured and installed them before, since the concrete will crack if not installed properly.
With so many choices for kitchen cabinet countertops, you can really make your kitchen a one of a kind centerpiece for your home.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/kitchen-countertops-choosing-which-option-is-right-for-your-kitchen-cabinet-countertop-275524.html
About the Author:
(RTA) Ready-To-Assemble Kitchen Cabinet & Bathroom Vanity Store is an importer and distributor of Oak, Ginger Maple, Honey Maple, Chestnut Glazed Maple, Marquis Cinnamon, White, and Cherry Ready-To-Assemble Kitchen Cabinets, Bathroom Vanities , and Euro Vanities . Save 30-40% on your next kitchen cabinet or bathroom vanity order.
Author: Gary Nealon
Choosing a countertop for your kitchen cabinets can be overwhelming. Depending on your taste and budget, kitchen countertops can be a very expensive investment. Laminate countertops that have been the industry kitchen cabinets standard for decades, but now there are a wide variety of solid core, stone and butcher block countertops to choose from.
Let's talk about Laminate Countertops. This is by far your least expensive option. The typical laminate countertops for kitchen cabinets now are up to 400% more durable than they were just ten years ago. They are more resistant to scratching scuffing and burning. They also come in a huge variety of colors, textures and patterns and finishes. The drawback to laminate is that they CAN be affected by excess heat, say from a pot, and the edges will be exposed. If you are looking for a clean look and durability, laminate countertops will not be your best choice.
Let's talk about finishes. There are three main types of finishes. Gloss, semi-gloss or satin and textured.
Gloss finish is very shiny. It can mimic with great success, stone like polished granite and marble on your kitchen cabinets. It is, though more durable than in the past, the finish that is most prone to scratching and scuffing. It also can show wipe marks more often. So, using this finish above your kitchen cabinets in front of a window or strong light is not usually a good idea. Using a light color will help hide wipe marks. This is a finish you would prefer in an area where your kitchen cabinets get the least amount of use. Using counter protectors on your kitchen cabinets is a good idea with this finish.
Semi-gloss or satin finishes on your countertops are more durable and easier to keep clean because they don't show wipe marks as easily and are more resistant to scratching and scuffing. This finish is the most popular for today's kitchen cabinets. Expect to get many years of service out of a laminate counter with this finish on you kitchen cabinets countertops..
Textured finishes on your countertops can add a lot of interest, but are harder to clean if the texture is very deep. In a deep texture, dirt and grime can settle into the bottom of the grooves, wrinkles or patterns and be a nuisance to clean. Another problem in high use areas is the tendency to wear on the high spots of the texture. This finish on your kitchen cabinets countertops works best in a low light, warm setting like bars and game rooms.
Let's move on to Solid Surface Countertops. Solid core or solid surface countertops are used mainly where you want to eliminate any visible seams in your. They are as durable or more durable than laminate kitchen cabinets countertops but lack the obvious seam line that laminate kitchen cabinets counters inherently have. Sinks and drop levels can be incorporated into one visibly seamless kitchen cabinets countertop. They can also be repaired. This is because the color and pattern goes all the way through the surface. Expect to pay more for this kitchen cabinets countertop material.
Wooden kitchen cabinets countertops, or butcher block tops, are obviously not as durable as other materials. While they are not as durable, they actually get better looking as they get older. As scratches and wear begin to take their toll, butcher block counters become more interesting and warm feeling. They are re-finishable and can last for many years. We recommend still using a cutting board for slicing meat and vegetables, since it is much easier to scrub the bacteria out of a cutting board than out of your kitchen cabinets counter. Be fore-warned, there will be some upkeep with butcher block kitchen countertops. Follow the manufacturers recommendations on care. This material goes well with country or rustic lodge style kitchens.
Another option for your kitchen cabinet countertops would be tile. The options for tiles are endless.... from ceramic, to porcelein, to marble, each one will offer it's unique properties and challenges. While this is a cost effective solution when looking for a countertop for your kitchen cabinets, it also presents some of the biggest maintenance issues. Ceramic tiles will tend to crack if something hits them or if they are not laid properly. You also have to worry about grout lines, which need to be sealed and cleaned properly, since they will have a tendency to accumulate dirt and debris. It also makes it harder to wipe down your kitchen cabinet countertops.
Stone kitchen cabinets countertops usually are you most expensive but most durable. Nothing says wealth and class like stone or marble on your kitchen cabinets. The most important aspect of stone is the installation and finishing. Choose a contractor with lots of experience and a excellent reputation.
Once of the newest trends in kitchen cabinet countertops is concrete. Concrete kitchen countertops provide the durability of solid surface or stone countertops, a wide variety of stains and finishes, and a more attractive price than stone. It can also be poured in unique designs to match the flow of your kitchen cabinets. With concrete kitchen countertops, it is important to find a contractor who has poured and installed them before, since the concrete will crack if not installed properly.
With so many choices for kitchen cabinet countertops, you can really make your kitchen a one of a kind centerpiece for your home.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/kitchen-countertops-choosing-which-option-is-right-for-your-kitchen-cabinet-countertop-275524.html
About the Author:
(RTA) Ready-To-Assemble Kitchen Cabinet & Bathroom Vanity Store is an importer and distributor of Oak, Ginger Maple, Honey Maple, Chestnut Glazed Maple, Marquis Cinnamon, White, and Cherry Ready-To-Assemble Kitchen Cabinets, Bathroom Vanities , and Euro Vanities . Save 30-40% on your next kitchen cabinet or bathroom vanity order.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Your kitchen knives need your care
Knives may be “just” kitchen tools for some people (even if for some others, they are the basis of their work – cooking); however, just like any other piece of equipment or gadget that you might have around you, they need maintenance. Wherever you are, you need to take care that the blade hits a comparatively flexible material, for example wood or plastic, instead of a rigid material (metal, for example). Regular thumping on a rigid material puts the blade in risk: it will go blunt quickly.
Even if it may seem necessary once in a while, you should avoid using your ceramic or stainless steel kitchen knives for forcing various things open, or as a replacement for a screwdriver. Remember that your cooking knives are kitchen tools, so they should be specifically used in the kitchen, when you are cooking. Even more, avoid using the backside or the sideways of any kitchen tools as knocking instruments save for the situations in which they are expressly intended to deal with such a “job.” If you are knocking or hammering things with your kitchen knives, you risk having the handle come untied or break.
Do not put stainless steel knives to wash together with the rest of your kitchen tools in the dishwasher. It is preferable to wash your kitchen knives separately, by hand. As soon as you have washed them, remember to also dry them, if the handle is made of wood. If you care for the patina on a knife wood handle, you may polish it with mineral oil.
To what concerns the blades, even if the majority of them are mainly created from high degree stainless steel, exterior corrosion or marks will unavoidably become visible. However, do not worry, you can clean the signs of oxidization on the blade with a soft rubbing powder. On the other hand, you have the alternative of the ceramic bladed knives.
These ones come with a series of plus points, as compared against stainless steel blades. For one thing, they are completely resistant to corrosion. Second, they are very unproblematic to clean. Ceramic knives mean that the material of which they are made is stick-resistant. Third, you will not have to worry about sharpening ceramic knives for months. In some cases, if you stick to following maintenance instructions, ceramic knives do not need sharpening for years and years.
When you wash your ceramic knives, remember to wash them separately. Again, as in the case of stainless steel knives, do not put them together with the rest of the kitchen tools in the dishwasher. Regularly, they will not need more than a rapid wash and rinse. Remember that maintenance is key to a long use of your cooking knives.
Even if it may seem necessary once in a while, you should avoid using your ceramic or stainless steel kitchen knives for forcing various things open, or as a replacement for a screwdriver. Remember that your cooking knives are kitchen tools, so they should be specifically used in the kitchen, when you are cooking. Even more, avoid using the backside or the sideways of any kitchen tools as knocking instruments save for the situations in which they are expressly intended to deal with such a “job.” If you are knocking or hammering things with your kitchen knives, you risk having the handle come untied or break.
Do not put stainless steel knives to wash together with the rest of your kitchen tools in the dishwasher. It is preferable to wash your kitchen knives separately, by hand. As soon as you have washed them, remember to also dry them, if the handle is made of wood. If you care for the patina on a knife wood handle, you may polish it with mineral oil.
To what concerns the blades, even if the majority of them are mainly created from high degree stainless steel, exterior corrosion or marks will unavoidably become visible. However, do not worry, you can clean the signs of oxidization on the blade with a soft rubbing powder. On the other hand, you have the alternative of the ceramic bladed knives.
These ones come with a series of plus points, as compared against stainless steel blades. For one thing, they are completely resistant to corrosion. Second, they are very unproblematic to clean. Ceramic knives mean that the material of which they are made is stick-resistant. Third, you will not have to worry about sharpening ceramic knives for months. In some cases, if you stick to following maintenance instructions, ceramic knives do not need sharpening for years and years.
When you wash your ceramic knives, remember to wash them separately. Again, as in the case of stainless steel knives, do not put them together with the rest of the kitchen tools in the dishwasher. Regularly, they will not need more than a rapid wash and rinse. Remember that maintenance is key to a long use of your cooking knives.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Kitchen Cabinet Hardware - A Great Way To Spruce Up The Look Of Any Kitchen
Author: Jesse Akre
The kitchen, it is the one room in the home that you and your family end up spending the most time in. Then, why is it that people tend to neglect it when it comes to decorating and making it look beautiful? If you are spending the most amount of time in there, then it should be equally gorgeous, if not more, than the rest of your home. One way to get your kitchen space on the right track is by purchasing some new kitchen cabinet hardware to give it a stellar, completed look.
Now, you might be thinking, how is new kitchen cabinet hardware going to make my kitchen that beautiful? Well, because it has a pleasing look which comes from the many different materials it can be made from. Those materials include aluminum, brass, stone, wood, ceramic, steel, zinc, pewter, plastic, wood, granite, even porcelain and glass. Each has a gorgeous appearance, plus, they are available in a number of different finishes like brushed, antiqued, satin, polished, dull, and rubbed. With the material and finished options, you can find the perfect ones to complement the kitchen cabinetry that you have, achieving any kind of look that you want in your kitchen. For example, maybe you want a trendy, contemporary look and feel in your kitchen. Then, a great choice for you would be ones crafted out of metal that have a brushed finish. Or, if you want more of an antique feel, then a great option are ones that are also made from metal, but instead have that antique finish to them. Really, you can create any kind of look that you want in your space because of all the many selections that are available. All of these materials are also very durable, which is ideal for you because they will last for years and you will not have to worry about having to replace them because they break or get damaged.
When it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware, there are different types that you can purchase depending upon what you want to replace in your kitchen area. You might need new knobs and hinges for your cabinets, pulls for your drawers, and maybe even a slide or track for inside your drawers. Probably the best thing to do though is to get ones that match because having a miss-matched look in your kitchen is pretty tacky. To find exactly what you are looking for, a fast and easy way is to hit the Internet for some comparison shopping.
So, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/kitchen-cabinet-hardware-a-great-way-to-spruce-up-the-look-of-any-kitchen-171746.html
About the Author:
Jesse Akre, owner of home decorating sites gives information and ideas on cabinet hardware and cabinet knobs . Decorate with style and class. Shop: drawer pulls
The kitchen, it is the one room in the home that you and your family end up spending the most time in. Then, why is it that people tend to neglect it when it comes to decorating and making it look beautiful? If you are spending the most amount of time in there, then it should be equally gorgeous, if not more, than the rest of your home. One way to get your kitchen space on the right track is by purchasing some new kitchen cabinet hardware to give it a stellar, completed look.
Now, you might be thinking, how is new kitchen cabinet hardware going to make my kitchen that beautiful? Well, because it has a pleasing look which comes from the many different materials it can be made from. Those materials include aluminum, brass, stone, wood, ceramic, steel, zinc, pewter, plastic, wood, granite, even porcelain and glass. Each has a gorgeous appearance, plus, they are available in a number of different finishes like brushed, antiqued, satin, polished, dull, and rubbed. With the material and finished options, you can find the perfect ones to complement the kitchen cabinetry that you have, achieving any kind of look that you want in your kitchen. For example, maybe you want a trendy, contemporary look and feel in your kitchen. Then, a great choice for you would be ones crafted out of metal that have a brushed finish. Or, if you want more of an antique feel, then a great option are ones that are also made from metal, but instead have that antique finish to them. Really, you can create any kind of look that you want in your space because of all the many selections that are available. All of these materials are also very durable, which is ideal for you because they will last for years and you will not have to worry about having to replace them because they break or get damaged.
When it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware, there are different types that you can purchase depending upon what you want to replace in your kitchen area. You might need new knobs and hinges for your cabinets, pulls for your drawers, and maybe even a slide or track for inside your drawers. Probably the best thing to do though is to get ones that match because having a miss-matched look in your kitchen is pretty tacky. To find exactly what you are looking for, a fast and easy way is to hit the Internet for some comparison shopping.
So, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.
Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/home-improvement-articles/kitchen-cabinet-hardware-a-great-way-to-spruce-up-the-look-of-any-kitchen-171746.html
About the Author:
Jesse Akre, owner of home decorating sites gives information and ideas on cabinet hardware and cabinet knobs . Decorate with style and class. Shop: drawer pulls
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Painting Kitchen Cabinets to Save Money
Home Improvement,Home Repair,Interior Design
Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. If you want to find out more about kitchen design software go to Kitchen Design Software. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design. For more about kitchen remodeling advice go to kitchen remodeling advice
">If replacing your cabinetry is too expensive for your budget, after cabinet refacing, painting kitchen cabinets is the least expensive option and can really transform your kitchen. Plus this kitchen remodeling job can be accomplished over a long weekend or about 3 days with the right kind of preparation and planning. Depending on the area of the country you live in it is probably not a good idea to do this type of job in the winter months because you will need to have windows and doors open because of fumes from the paint and primer.
Kitchen cabinets take up most of the wall space in most kitchens and because of this by making a change in the look of your kitchen cabinets as in painting, you can greatly improve the look of the entire kitchen.
Whether you want to lighten up dark cabinets or brighten them up with bold colors, paint can provide an instant makeover for almost all types of cabinets. Because of problems of paint adhering well to laminate and melamine cabinets, it isn't recommended to paint these types.
Painting your kitchen cabinets can be the fastest and easiest method to update a tired worn-out looking kitchen and increase the value of your home. Painting the cabinets is a simple and low-cost alternative to an expensive kitchen-remodeling job. Painting the kitchen cabinets can give them a fresh new look. Painting kitchen cabinets will save you money while making it look like you spent a lot on remodeling your kitchen.
You can easily change the kitchen cabinet accessories such as the cabinet knobs and handles. You can leave the insides of the kitchen cabinets alone except the insides of the doors to save even more money on the job and the hassle of having to take out everything that is inside the cabinets.
Preparing the Kitchen Cabinetry for Painting
First you can begin by take off the doors removing any screws and all the hardware from the cabinets. Make sure to clean the cabinets thoroughly before starting to paint with a wood cleaner containing orange oil. This type of cleaner is good for removing grease. If there is any grease, oils or even a little dirt the paint may not adhere to the wood surface correctly. Make sure the surface is totally dry before applying the primer.
Now check for any rough areas on the doors and the cabinet base, sand them down, and wipe away any dust or sawdust from the surface.
Apply an even coat of primer-sealer to the cabinet doors, starting in the center and following the grain of the wood. By using primer-sealer you will not have to sand down and degloss the wood before painting it.
Painting the Cabinetry
When it comes to the choice of the type of paint either a high-gloss or a semigloss paint are recommended for cabinets. Some people feel that semigloss can provide a richer finish however. Use a good quality brush for applying the paint. This will insure a more superior finish. As with the application of the primer-sealer you should start in the center and follow the grain. Two or three coats are required to achieve a good quality finish. The paint should be allowed to dry about four hours per coat. Using thin coats make for fewer brushstrokes and less time for drying.
Once you have all the doors painted, start on the bases. Follow the same steps you did for the doors: sand, clean, seal, then paint. You will not have to worry about doing the inside of the cabinets. It will only be necessary to tape off the edges for a clean finish and just leave them as they are. However you might want to start thinking about replacing the hardware for the drawers and doors to totally complete your new kitchen look.
If you proceed carefully and follow all the necessary steps, you should have a like new kitchen with a fresh look to be proud of.
James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles, visit at Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. If you want to find out more about kitchen design software go to Kitchen Design Software. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design. For more about kitchen remodeling advice go to kitchen remodeling advice
Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. If you want to find out more about kitchen design software go to Kitchen Design Software. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design. For more about kitchen remodeling advice go to kitchen remodeling advice
">If replacing your cabinetry is too expensive for your budget, after cabinet refacing, painting kitchen cabinets is the least expensive option and can really transform your kitchen. Plus this kitchen remodeling job can be accomplished over a long weekend or about 3 days with the right kind of preparation and planning. Depending on the area of the country you live in it is probably not a good idea to do this type of job in the winter months because you will need to have windows and doors open because of fumes from the paint and primer.
Kitchen cabinets take up most of the wall space in most kitchens and because of this by making a change in the look of your kitchen cabinets as in painting, you can greatly improve the look of the entire kitchen.
Whether you want to lighten up dark cabinets or brighten them up with bold colors, paint can provide an instant makeover for almost all types of cabinets. Because of problems of paint adhering well to laminate and melamine cabinets, it isn't recommended to paint these types.
Painting your kitchen cabinets can be the fastest and easiest method to update a tired worn-out looking kitchen and increase the value of your home. Painting the cabinets is a simple and low-cost alternative to an expensive kitchen-remodeling job. Painting the kitchen cabinets can give them a fresh new look. Painting kitchen cabinets will save you money while making it look like you spent a lot on remodeling your kitchen.
You can easily change the kitchen cabinet accessories such as the cabinet knobs and handles. You can leave the insides of the kitchen cabinets alone except the insides of the doors to save even more money on the job and the hassle of having to take out everything that is inside the cabinets.
Preparing the Kitchen Cabinetry for Painting
First you can begin by take off the doors removing any screws and all the hardware from the cabinets. Make sure to clean the cabinets thoroughly before starting to paint with a wood cleaner containing orange oil. This type of cleaner is good for removing grease. If there is any grease, oils or even a little dirt the paint may not adhere to the wood surface correctly. Make sure the surface is totally dry before applying the primer.
Now check for any rough areas on the doors and the cabinet base, sand them down, and wipe away any dust or sawdust from the surface.
Apply an even coat of primer-sealer to the cabinet doors, starting in the center and following the grain of the wood. By using primer-sealer you will not have to sand down and degloss the wood before painting it.
Painting the Cabinetry
When it comes to the choice of the type of paint either a high-gloss or a semigloss paint are recommended for cabinets. Some people feel that semigloss can provide a richer finish however. Use a good quality brush for applying the paint. This will insure a more superior finish. As with the application of the primer-sealer you should start in the center and follow the grain. Two or three coats are required to achieve a good quality finish. The paint should be allowed to dry about four hours per coat. Using thin coats make for fewer brushstrokes and less time for drying.
Once you have all the doors painted, start on the bases. Follow the same steps you did for the doors: sand, clean, seal, then paint. You will not have to worry about doing the inside of the cabinets. It will only be necessary to tape off the edges for a clean finish and just leave them as they are. However you might want to start thinking about replacing the hardware for the drawers and doors to totally complete your new kitchen look.
If you proceed carefully and follow all the necessary steps, you should have a like new kitchen with a fresh look to be proud of.
James Mahoney is the author of many kitchen design articles, visit at Kitchen Designers Ideas.com. If you want to find out more about kitchen design software go to Kitchen Design Software. He also publishes a newsletter on kitchen design. For more about kitchen remodeling advice go to kitchen remodeling advice
Friday, August 1, 2008
Finding the Right Materials for Kitchen Cabinets
If you're looking to brighten your home, make it more modern or even take it back a few years, changing your kitchen cabinets is a great place to start. A new kitchen cabinet set can add value to your home and completely change the atmosphere of the room. Whatever kind of cabinet set you're looking for, you should know a few things about the materials from which kitchen cabinets can be made.
One of the most popular materials for wooden kitchen cabinets is maple. Maple is both durable and versatile. It can be used with many finishes because of its fine, uniform grain. Maple can be painted or stained with ease and can match a variety of kitchens. One of the only downsides of maple is that it tends to yellow in the sun, which isn't a problem if it's painted.
Rivaling maple's popularity is oak. Oak is quite durable, but it isn't as versatile as maple because of its distinct look. The distinctive grain of oak lends itself to old-fashioned, country-styled kitchens, but it doesn't match well in modern kitchen styles. Stains and varnishes take to oak very well and can allow its unique grain to really stand out. There are many different colors of oak since it's one of the most common trees in North America.
If you're looking for something completely different from traditional wood kitchen cabinets, try a set of metal cabinets. From stainless steel to copper, the variety of metals used in modern kitchen cabinets keeps growing. Stainless steel may seem somewhat institutional, but with the right accents it can help create a cozy kitchen. Burnished copper and brushed nickel also are two popular finishes on metal cabinets. Metal cabinets can be noisy, so look at all the materials used in the cabinets. Manufacturers often lay the metal over other, less noisy materials such as plywood or pressboard. This takes the noise level down, but can seriously affect durability. Cabinets will be more or less durable depending on the materials used underneath the metal. Spend a little extra to be sure your cabinets will last a long time.
Melamine cabinets are another option. Melamine is a coating that goes over a base material and provides protection against scratches, stains and flames. It can come in a retro-style, plain white or faux wood grain. The durability of melamine also is dependent on the quality of the base material. The coating doesn't allow moisture into the base material, but if the coating is cracked, melamine cabinets can sag quickly. Otherwise, they are an aesthetically pleasing and relatively durable choice for a kitchen cabinet set.
Whatever the choice of material, a new set of kitchen cabinets will make your entire house look and feel different. The right cabinet set will make your kitchen feel more like home or more like a professional kitchen, depending on your preference. Take the time to check out each material and style available before committing to a new set of kitchen cabinets. The right choice will last for years, or until you're ready to change the atmosphere again.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: I have been remodeling houses and rental properties for over 15 years. I have discovered the secret to saving thousands on kitchen cabinets. Find out my secret to buying kitchen cabinets at 30-40% below retail.
One of the most popular materials for wooden kitchen cabinets is maple. Maple is both durable and versatile. It can be used with many finishes because of its fine, uniform grain. Maple can be painted or stained with ease and can match a variety of kitchens. One of the only downsides of maple is that it tends to yellow in the sun, which isn't a problem if it's painted.
Rivaling maple's popularity is oak. Oak is quite durable, but it isn't as versatile as maple because of its distinct look. The distinctive grain of oak lends itself to old-fashioned, country-styled kitchens, but it doesn't match well in modern kitchen styles. Stains and varnishes take to oak very well and can allow its unique grain to really stand out. There are many different colors of oak since it's one of the most common trees in North America.
If you're looking for something completely different from traditional wood kitchen cabinets, try a set of metal cabinets. From stainless steel to copper, the variety of metals used in modern kitchen cabinets keeps growing. Stainless steel may seem somewhat institutional, but with the right accents it can help create a cozy kitchen. Burnished copper and brushed nickel also are two popular finishes on metal cabinets. Metal cabinets can be noisy, so look at all the materials used in the cabinets. Manufacturers often lay the metal over other, less noisy materials such as plywood or pressboard. This takes the noise level down, but can seriously affect durability. Cabinets will be more or less durable depending on the materials used underneath the metal. Spend a little extra to be sure your cabinets will last a long time.
Melamine cabinets are another option. Melamine is a coating that goes over a base material and provides protection against scratches, stains and flames. It can come in a retro-style, plain white or faux wood grain. The durability of melamine also is dependent on the quality of the base material. The coating doesn't allow moisture into the base material, but if the coating is cracked, melamine cabinets can sag quickly. Otherwise, they are an aesthetically pleasing and relatively durable choice for a kitchen cabinet set.
Whatever the choice of material, a new set of kitchen cabinets will make your entire house look and feel different. The right cabinet set will make your kitchen feel more like home or more like a professional kitchen, depending on your preference. Take the time to check out each material and style available before committing to a new set of kitchen cabinets. The right choice will last for years, or until you're ready to change the atmosphere again.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: I have been remodeling houses and rental properties for over 15 years. I have discovered the secret to saving thousands on kitchen cabinets. Find out my secret to buying kitchen cabinets at 30-40% below retail.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
Discount Kitchen Cabinets vs. Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
A complete set of kitchen cabinets can start at around $800 at the bottom of the line for discount kitchen cabinets and go all the way up to $100,000 for a high quality set.
To estimate the costs of your kitchen cabinets measure the length of the area that will have base cabinets, the ones that sit on the floor, and the length of the wall cabinets.
Add these two numbers together and you have the number of lineal feet of required cabinets. If it is your intent to install a pantry or other cabinet that is floor to ceiling, include the length dimension in both the base and wall cabinet number.
Most home centers and kitchen cabinet specialty retailers will post an average lineal price for each design and quality. The price per lineal foot does not include the countertop or cabinet installation.
The lineal foot price indicated is usually based on a 10-foot long, straight wall configuration, (no corner cabinets required or glass doors). It will not include any trim or cabinet options and in most cases will not include doorknobs, or drawer pulls. Unless specifically indicated the price will not include installation.
As a rule of thumb, you can double the lineal foot price of the cabinets to arrive at the total cost of the project, installed.
The lineal per foot cost is in the doors and hardware. Doors can be made of veneered MDF or hardwoods that are richly stained. Luxury door hardware, such as hinges, knobs, and pulls can add as much as $50 to the price of a specific cabinet.
Drawer slides are also an important price driver. Quality drawer slides make a major difference to the price of a cabinet.
When you are shopping for your cabinets, pay special attention to the hardware that is used and fabrication techniques. Make sure you are comparing similar qualities when looking at best price.
Knowledge and planning are the keys to a successful home remodel project.
Kitchen cabinets have an enormous spread in pricing from $80 a lineal foot for laminate faced, self-assembly to $300 a lineal foot for hardwood doors, glass insets, and ceiling trims.
Because of this spread in price, it is important to set a top amount that you can afford. Then you consider the cabinet designs available up to that price point.
If your cabinets are in good shape, or at least the frame is in good shape, and you like the configuration, consider replacing just the doors. Combined with a refinishing job on the frame, this option can give you a whole new look at a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
The choices are simple when it comes to doors: replace them completely, refinish your existing doors or do a combination of both.
Replacing your doors is quite self-explanatory; unless you have strangely designed custom-built doors, door sizes are standard and replacements will be easy to find at any good home renovation store or cabinet manufacturing company.
Judge replacement doors just as you would the entire cabinets. Look for quality materials and excellent finishes.
Another option is kitchen cabinet refacing. kitchen cabinet refacing involves removing your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers and resurfacing them with wood or laminate veneer. The newly refaced doors and drawer fronts are then mounted using new hinges and pull.
For the best look, the interior edges of the face frame should also be faced, or at least completely sanded and refinished. This process is much less expensive than replacing your kitchen cabinets, yet provides a fresh updated look.
The cost of having the average kitchen refaced by a professional kitchen cabinet refacing company can run between $2500-$5000 depending on the size, number and layout of the existing cabinets, and is considerably less than replacing the whole kitchen. Kitchen cabinet refacing can usually be done in about 3-5 work days.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: Rebecca Noel is a licensed real estate agent and real estate investor. Remodeling houses and home improvement diy are her area of interest. Find out insider information that will save you $1000's on materials and help you get your remodeling projects done weeks faster at Remodeling Recon.
To estimate the costs of your kitchen cabinets measure the length of the area that will have base cabinets, the ones that sit on the floor, and the length of the wall cabinets.
Add these two numbers together and you have the number of lineal feet of required cabinets. If it is your intent to install a pantry or other cabinet that is floor to ceiling, include the length dimension in both the base and wall cabinet number.
Most home centers and kitchen cabinet specialty retailers will post an average lineal price for each design and quality. The price per lineal foot does not include the countertop or cabinet installation.
The lineal foot price indicated is usually based on a 10-foot long, straight wall configuration, (no corner cabinets required or glass doors). It will not include any trim or cabinet options and in most cases will not include doorknobs, or drawer pulls. Unless specifically indicated the price will not include installation.
As a rule of thumb, you can double the lineal foot price of the cabinets to arrive at the total cost of the project, installed.
The lineal per foot cost is in the doors and hardware. Doors can be made of veneered MDF or hardwoods that are richly stained. Luxury door hardware, such as hinges, knobs, and pulls can add as much as $50 to the price of a specific cabinet.
Drawer slides are also an important price driver. Quality drawer slides make a major difference to the price of a cabinet.
When you are shopping for your cabinets, pay special attention to the hardware that is used and fabrication techniques. Make sure you are comparing similar qualities when looking at best price.
Knowledge and planning are the keys to a successful home remodel project.
Kitchen cabinets have an enormous spread in pricing from $80 a lineal foot for laminate faced, self-assembly to $300 a lineal foot for hardwood doors, glass insets, and ceiling trims.
Because of this spread in price, it is important to set a top amount that you can afford. Then you consider the cabinet designs available up to that price point.
If your cabinets are in good shape, or at least the frame is in good shape, and you like the configuration, consider replacing just the doors. Combined with a refinishing job on the frame, this option can give you a whole new look at a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
The choices are simple when it comes to doors: replace them completely, refinish your existing doors or do a combination of both.
Replacing your doors is quite self-explanatory; unless you have strangely designed custom-built doors, door sizes are standard and replacements will be easy to find at any good home renovation store or cabinet manufacturing company.
Judge replacement doors just as you would the entire cabinets. Look for quality materials and excellent finishes.
Another option is kitchen cabinet refacing. kitchen cabinet refacing involves removing your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers and resurfacing them with wood or laminate veneer. The newly refaced doors and drawer fronts are then mounted using new hinges and pull.
For the best look, the interior edges of the face frame should also be faced, or at least completely sanded and refinished. This process is much less expensive than replacing your kitchen cabinets, yet provides a fresh updated look.
The cost of having the average kitchen refaced by a professional kitchen cabinet refacing company can run between $2500-$5000 depending on the size, number and layout of the existing cabinets, and is considerably less than replacing the whole kitchen. Kitchen cabinet refacing can usually be done in about 3-5 work days.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: Rebecca Noel is a licensed real estate agent and real estate investor. Remodeling houses and home improvement diy are her area of interest. Find out insider information that will save you $1000's on materials and help you get your remodeling projects done weeks faster at Remodeling Recon.
Kitchen Cabinet Miraculous Cleaning
So, your kitchen cabinets are a mess, and you dread forking out all that cash for new ones. Well, maybe new ones are not what you need. The first place to start, may be with a thorough cleaning of the ones you have. A good amount of elbow grease may be just what you need to get rid of all that cooking grease and accumulation of muck from over the years. Particularly if all the drawers, hinges and hardware are still in good working order. A simple solution of soapy water and effort may do the trick. Make sure to wipe all the soap off before drying and replacing the cabinets. Removing hardware handles and pulls first, gives you a chance to clean them separately and an opportunity to remove any gunk that may have built up between the hardware and the cabinets themselves.
Maybe you still like the look of your cabinets, but their just a little grungy. If your cabinets are made of solid wood and need a little more cleaning than just soap and water, then there is another approach you can try. It's a bit more of a caustic approach, but will do the job when something a little tougher is required. You'll need a combination of 3 tablespoons turpentine, 3 tablespoons boiled linseed oil, and 1 quart of boiling water. You have to be very careful with this recipe, as it is a somewhat flammable mixture. Any brushes or rags that come in contact with this stuff will be somewhat flammable as well. Be sure to dispose of them per your local city ordinances.
Once you've got your little concoction ready, it's time to get to work. Either cover or remove anything around the cabinets that you don't plan on cleaning. This includes cabinet hardware, countertops, floors, walls, and small appliances. If you can empty the cabinets as much as possible, it will facilitate cleaning inside as well as out. Be sure to wear gloves while doing this job, as to avoid any damage to your skin. Removing cabinet doors may be helpful as well, depending on how flexible you are, when it comes to reaching inside to the deepest recesses of your cabinets. As before, removing the hardware and washing it separately is a good idea, plus you get better access to the small sections of cabinet that were underneath the hardware pulls and hinges. Wipe all the cabinet clean with a rag dipped in your cleaning solution. Use a different clean rag to dry the surface, once all the old gunk has been removed. Once everything is clean and dry, replace all the hardware, and put the kitchen cabinet doors back on.
Hopefully your cabinets look just like new, and you've saved yourself a few thousand bucks in replacement costs. If your still not to keen on how they look, then maybe it's time to consider a fresh coat of paint or varnish to brighten things up. We repainted our dark old cabinets with a fresh coat of while melamine paint and new updated hardware. While we did eventually replace them, the paint and new hardware made them bearable for a few more years.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: Read more great information on your kitchen design and kitchen cabinets , visit http://foolishmumbles.com/2006/09/29/kitchen-cabinet-miraculous-cleaning/
Maybe you still like the look of your cabinets, but their just a little grungy. If your cabinets are made of solid wood and need a little more cleaning than just soap and water, then there is another approach you can try. It's a bit more of a caustic approach, but will do the job when something a little tougher is required. You'll need a combination of 3 tablespoons turpentine, 3 tablespoons boiled linseed oil, and 1 quart of boiling water. You have to be very careful with this recipe, as it is a somewhat flammable mixture. Any brushes or rags that come in contact with this stuff will be somewhat flammable as well. Be sure to dispose of them per your local city ordinances.
Once you've got your little concoction ready, it's time to get to work. Either cover or remove anything around the cabinets that you don't plan on cleaning. This includes cabinet hardware, countertops, floors, walls, and small appliances. If you can empty the cabinets as much as possible, it will facilitate cleaning inside as well as out. Be sure to wear gloves while doing this job, as to avoid any damage to your skin. Removing cabinet doors may be helpful as well, depending on how flexible you are, when it comes to reaching inside to the deepest recesses of your cabinets. As before, removing the hardware and washing it separately is a good idea, plus you get better access to the small sections of cabinet that were underneath the hardware pulls and hinges. Wipe all the cabinet clean with a rag dipped in your cleaning solution. Use a different clean rag to dry the surface, once all the old gunk has been removed. Once everything is clean and dry, replace all the hardware, and put the kitchen cabinet doors back on.
Hopefully your cabinets look just like new, and you've saved yourself a few thousand bucks in replacement costs. If your still not to keen on how they look, then maybe it's time to consider a fresh coat of paint or varnish to brighten things up. We repainted our dark old cabinets with a fresh coat of while melamine paint and new updated hardware. While we did eventually replace them, the paint and new hardware made them bearable for a few more years.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: Read more great information on your kitchen design and kitchen cabinets , visit http://foolishmumbles.com/2006/09/29/kitchen-cabinet-miraculous-cleaning/
Friday, July 11, 2008
Cabinet Refacing, A Popular Alternative To Replacing
by: glenn@isnare.com
When remodeling your kitchen, an alternative to replacing your cabinets entirely, is to reface them. With refacing cabinets, you can achieve a beautiful new kitchen while spending half the amount of money. You will literally be giving your cabinets a face-lift!
In the refacing process, existing doors, drawer fronts and hardware are removed and replaced with new ones. For cabinet doors, a wide variety of veneers and laminates are available to cover old surfaces. Other noticeable surfaces such as cabinet ends and frames are finished to match. Cabinet interiors are either refinished or repainted. Cabinet refacing is available in a variety of styles, materials and colors.
Neither the kitchen layout nor the amount of space available is affected by refaced cabinets. Doors, drawer fronts, and hardware are refaced and then put right back into their previous place, leaving your current arrangement untouched. A beautiful new look will be created, but you will still be standing in the same kitchen. If you are looking for a more drastic change, consider installing a few new cabinets to alter the look a bit more. In addition, new pull out or swivel shelves can also be installed to enhance the appearance and feel.
One of the most important factors in refacing your cabinets is that you find a licensed contractor. Getting a contractor that is licensed and bonded means that you will receive quality work without some of the hassles of hiring someone not qualified. Make sure you shop around and get multiple quotes. Contractors typically have different rates depending on the number of employees that will be working on your project. By getting multiple bids you can lower your cost and find a contractor you are comfortable
Not only does refacing cabinets improve the overall look of your kitchen, but it also greatly improves the durability of your cabinets. It helps protect and lengthen the life of your existing cabinetry, adding overall worth to your home.
When remodeling your kitchen, an alternative to replacing your cabinets entirely, is to reface them. With refacing cabinets, you can achieve a beautiful new kitchen while spending half the amount of money. You will literally be giving your cabinets a face-lift!
In the refacing process, existing doors, drawer fronts and hardware are removed and replaced with new ones. For cabinet doors, a wide variety of veneers and laminates are available to cover old surfaces. Other noticeable surfaces such as cabinet ends and frames are finished to match. Cabinet interiors are either refinished or repainted. Cabinet refacing is available in a variety of styles, materials and colors.
Neither the kitchen layout nor the amount of space available is affected by refaced cabinets. Doors, drawer fronts, and hardware are refaced and then put right back into their previous place, leaving your current arrangement untouched. A beautiful new look will be created, but you will still be standing in the same kitchen. If you are looking for a more drastic change, consider installing a few new cabinets to alter the look a bit more. In addition, new pull out or swivel shelves can also be installed to enhance the appearance and feel.
One of the most important factors in refacing your cabinets is that you find a licensed contractor. Getting a contractor that is licensed and bonded means that you will receive quality work without some of the hassles of hiring someone not qualified. Make sure you shop around and get multiple quotes. Contractors typically have different rates depending on the number of employees that will be working on your project. By getting multiple bids you can lower your cost and find a contractor you are comfortable
Not only does refacing cabinets improve the overall look of your kitchen, but it also greatly improves the durability of your cabinets. It helps protect and lengthen the life of your existing cabinetry, adding overall worth to your home.
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Shopping for Kitchen Cabinets: Choosing the Right Kitchen Cabinet for your Price Range
Author: Gary Nealon
Kitchen Cabinets are by and large the core of any kitchen. They can be highlighted by kitchen appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, cooktop, dishwasher and microwave, or these appliances can be modified to blend in by using panels that match your kitchen cabinets.
Shopping for kitchen cabinets can be intimidating, especially for a first time buyer. There are hundreds/thousands of major kitchen cabinet companies, and many more smaller custom kitchen cabinet shops where you can get any cabinet made from any species of wood that your mind can imagine. Add to that list the explosion of RTA Kitchen Cabinet importers, and the laminated cabinet manufacturers, and suddenly the list can be overwhelming. Not to mention the fact that higher price always means high quality in construction, or more features being available.
In the past, pricing had always been the way to categorize kitchen cabinets. Traditionally, tthe higher-quality cabinets simply cost more money. As I mentioned before, with more and more importers conforming to the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association) building standards, some of the RTA Kitchen Cabinets or Stock kitchen cabinets can actually be a sturdier cabinet than the traditional, made to order cabinets. Regardless of what type of kitchen cabinet you decide to go with, it does not take much effort to spend tens of thousands of dollars on the actual kitchen cabinets.
Most kitchen cabinet manufacturers build their kitchen base and wall cabinets in standard sizes. The kitchen base cabinets are often 34.5 inches tall and 24 inches deep. They come in widths starting at 12 inches and can go up to 48 inches often in increasing width increments of 3 inches. Kitchen wall cabinets are often 12 inches deep and 30 inches or 42 inches tall. They also come in the same size widths as the base cabinets. Wall cabinets also come in several different heights and depths for locations such as over the refrigerator or over the microwave/hood range unit. With custom kitchen cabinets, you have even more choices available, since the kitchen cabinets will be created specifically for your kitchen space.
Different semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers make different-sized kitchen cabinets for all sorts of special looks and situations. It is not uncommon to have one cabinet extend beyond adjacent cabinets to create a distinguished look. It pays to shop around to see all of the different possibilities and special cabinet features offered by the custom and semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers.
One of the biggest advantages to true custom kitchen cabinets is the ability to make one giant base or wall kitchen cabinet instead of separate boxes that are screwed together by the installer at the jobsite. A custom-cabinet maker can easily make one giant base cabinet 8 feet long that installs as if it were a piece of furniture. The same is true for wall kitchen cabinets. The advantage of this method is the lack of vertical seams where two traditional cabinet boxes would mate up to one another.
Pay particular attention to the materials used to build the kitchen cabinets. Some kitchen cabinets are made with minimal-quality engineered lumber, particleboard, or fiberboard. . If you plan to load a wall cabinet with heavy traditional china, the weight of the dishes may cause the cabinet to pull apart over time. This is particularly true when it comes to the semi-custom cabinets that the name brand cabinet manufacturers sell at the big box stores (which is why price is not always an accurate gauge of cabinet quality). Many of the RTA Kitchen Cabinet manufacturers use solid plywood sides, which obviously creates a strong kitchen cabinet box than a particleboard or fiberboard box. When it comes to custom cabinets, the material choices are endless and can usually be specified by the customer.
Another factor that will determine the price of kitchen cabinets is the material used to hold it together. Custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers will often use a combination of dovetailed joints, wood biscuits, and glue to create tight joints. Mid-grade kitchen cabinets will have a wide range of materials holding them together (staples and nails on the lower end, to cam lock assembly and wood glue on the higher end). Most RTA Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers utilize the cam lock system, which creates a nice sturdy cabinet, and when enhanced with wood glue, can last a life time. Steer away from any kitchen cabinets that are using staples, wooden dowels, or just screws. The strength of the cabinet will be compromised at the joints with these weaker joining materials.
Kitchen Cabinets are by and large the core of any kitchen. They can be highlighted by kitchen appliances such as the refrigerator, stove, cooktop, dishwasher and microwave, or these appliances can be modified to blend in by using panels that match your kitchen cabinets.
Shopping for kitchen cabinets can be intimidating, especially for a first time buyer. There are hundreds/thousands of major kitchen cabinet companies, and many more smaller custom kitchen cabinet shops where you can get any cabinet made from any species of wood that your mind can imagine. Add to that list the explosion of RTA Kitchen Cabinet importers, and the laminated cabinet manufacturers, and suddenly the list can be overwhelming. Not to mention the fact that higher price always means high quality in construction, or more features being available.
In the past, pricing had always been the way to categorize kitchen cabinets. Traditionally, tthe higher-quality cabinets simply cost more money. As I mentioned before, with more and more importers conforming to the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association) building standards, some of the RTA Kitchen Cabinets or Stock kitchen cabinets can actually be a sturdier cabinet than the traditional, made to order cabinets. Regardless of what type of kitchen cabinet you decide to go with, it does not take much effort to spend tens of thousands of dollars on the actual kitchen cabinets.
Most kitchen cabinet manufacturers build their kitchen base and wall cabinets in standard sizes. The kitchen base cabinets are often 34.5 inches tall and 24 inches deep. They come in widths starting at 12 inches and can go up to 48 inches often in increasing width increments of 3 inches. Kitchen wall cabinets are often 12 inches deep and 30 inches or 42 inches tall. They also come in the same size widths as the base cabinets. Wall cabinets also come in several different heights and depths for locations such as over the refrigerator or over the microwave/hood range unit. With custom kitchen cabinets, you have even more choices available, since the kitchen cabinets will be created specifically for your kitchen space.
Different semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers make different-sized kitchen cabinets for all sorts of special looks and situations. It is not uncommon to have one cabinet extend beyond adjacent cabinets to create a distinguished look. It pays to shop around to see all of the different possibilities and special cabinet features offered by the custom and semi-custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers.
One of the biggest advantages to true custom kitchen cabinets is the ability to make one giant base or wall kitchen cabinet instead of separate boxes that are screwed together by the installer at the jobsite. A custom-cabinet maker can easily make one giant base cabinet 8 feet long that installs as if it were a piece of furniture. The same is true for wall kitchen cabinets. The advantage of this method is the lack of vertical seams where two traditional cabinet boxes would mate up to one another.
Pay particular attention to the materials used to build the kitchen cabinets. Some kitchen cabinets are made with minimal-quality engineered lumber, particleboard, or fiberboard. . If you plan to load a wall cabinet with heavy traditional china, the weight of the dishes may cause the cabinet to pull apart over time. This is particularly true when it comes to the semi-custom cabinets that the name brand cabinet manufacturers sell at the big box stores (which is why price is not always an accurate gauge of cabinet quality). Many of the RTA Kitchen Cabinet manufacturers use solid plywood sides, which obviously creates a strong kitchen cabinet box than a particleboard or fiberboard box. When it comes to custom cabinets, the material choices are endless and can usually be specified by the customer.
Another factor that will determine the price of kitchen cabinets is the material used to hold it together. Custom kitchen cabinet manufacturers will often use a combination of dovetailed joints, wood biscuits, and glue to create tight joints. Mid-grade kitchen cabinets will have a wide range of materials holding them together (staples and nails on the lower end, to cam lock assembly and wood glue on the higher end). Most RTA Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers utilize the cam lock system, which creates a nice sturdy cabinet, and when enhanced with wood glue, can last a life time. Steer away from any kitchen cabinets that are using staples, wooden dowels, or just screws. The strength of the cabinet will be compromised at the joints with these weaker joining materials.
Sunday, July 6, 2008
Kitchen Cabinet Door Hinge - Types of Kitchen Cabinet Door Hinges
By Arturo Ronzon
You have decided to remodel your old kitchen. You have chosen the cabinet design, the wood, and the finish and are ready to go. You may have forgotten one important element. You probably haven’t given much thought to the hardware you are going to use. It is a decision that is just as important as any other in this process, choosing a kitchen cabinet door hinge and drawer pulls that will complement the new decor of your kitchen.
When shopping for a new kitchen cabinet door hinge, you will be presented with many choices. A semi concealed kitchen cabinet door hinge is for a cabinet with a face frame. Half of the kitchen cabinet door hinge is visible and the other half of the hinge is mounted on the back of the door.
A surface mounted kitchen cabinet door hinge is for a cabinet with a face frame where both leaves of the hinge can be seen from the front of the kitchen cabinet. You can also buy a hidden version of a surface mounted kitchen cabinet door hinge.
Overlay or inset kitchen cabinet door hinge, is a hinge that shows the pin from the front of the cabinet. They include partial and full wrap hinges that fasten to the back of the door and the back or edge of the side panel or the face frame.
A European kitchen cabinet door hinge is fastened to the back of the door and to the inside side panel or they attach to the edge of the face frame. This kitchen cabinet door hinge is completely hidden.
You may opt for a pivot kitchen cabinet door hinge. This type of hinge comes in a wide range of styles and work on a door that will pivot at two points instead of along a hinge pin. You can install some of these type hinges as concealed hinges.
A kitchen cabinet door hinge that will permit the door to pivot open and side back into the sides of the kitchen cabinet is called a pivot door slide or a flipper door slide. You thought that the hardware for your new kitchen was a simple thing and it turns out you have many choices for different uses when you are choosing a kitchen cabinet door hinge.
You have decided to remodel your old kitchen. You have chosen the cabinet design, the wood, and the finish and are ready to go. You may have forgotten one important element. You probably haven’t given much thought to the hardware you are going to use. It is a decision that is just as important as any other in this process, choosing a kitchen cabinet door hinge and drawer pulls that will complement the new decor of your kitchen.
When shopping for a new kitchen cabinet door hinge, you will be presented with many choices. A semi concealed kitchen cabinet door hinge is for a cabinet with a face frame. Half of the kitchen cabinet door hinge is visible and the other half of the hinge is mounted on the back of the door.
A surface mounted kitchen cabinet door hinge is for a cabinet with a face frame where both leaves of the hinge can be seen from the front of the kitchen cabinet. You can also buy a hidden version of a surface mounted kitchen cabinet door hinge.
Overlay or inset kitchen cabinet door hinge, is a hinge that shows the pin from the front of the cabinet. They include partial and full wrap hinges that fasten to the back of the door and the back or edge of the side panel or the face frame.
A European kitchen cabinet door hinge is fastened to the back of the door and to the inside side panel or they attach to the edge of the face frame. This kitchen cabinet door hinge is completely hidden.
You may opt for a pivot kitchen cabinet door hinge. This type of hinge comes in a wide range of styles and work on a door that will pivot at two points instead of along a hinge pin. You can install some of these type hinges as concealed hinges.
A kitchen cabinet door hinge that will permit the door to pivot open and side back into the sides of the kitchen cabinet is called a pivot door slide or a flipper door slide. You thought that the hardware for your new kitchen was a simple thing and it turns out you have many choices for different uses when you are choosing a kitchen cabinet door hinge.
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Shopping For Kitchen Cabinets- Making the Buying Process Easier
Buying kitchen cabinets has become easier then ever. You can now go online, pick your cabinet style, pick your color, and see what you're getting. The better kitchen cabinet sites will even offer to send you samples. There are always pitfalls to buying online, but this article will guide you through that and make your online experience memorable and money saving at the same time.
When shopping online you are really going to find four different styles of cabinets- made to order, semi-custom cabinets, stock cabinets, and RTA Cabinets. What I would like to focus on are the RTA Cabinets, which is where you are going to save the most money and still get a higher quality product. What does RTA mean and why is it so important? RTA kitchen cabinet or RTA bathroom vanity should be a phrase to get familiar with and at the same time, be comfortable saying. Ready to assemble is the words behind these three letters. The reason it is so important is because you can buy RTA kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities and save 30% to 40% from buying retail. Yes, that is a fact. Buying cabinets and assembling them yourself will save you a good amount of money. Don't worry the cabinet are easy to assemble. Well, I should say some styles of RTA are easy to assemble, but I will get to this later, just remember that if you get the correct RTA kitchen cabinets, you will have very little trouble with putting them together.
Buying online can be confusing, since there are hundreds of sites selling the same style of cabinets at a wide range of prices. Go to a few RTA sites and make sure you have compared prices. The good RTA sites will not offer gimmicks like free shipping. There is no such thing; these sites will make up for it with higher pricing. Also look for the straight forward, no frills sites. These sites usually offer the best pricing, and should be warehousing the cabinets, not using a 3rd party to ship their product. In the event there is a problem with the cabinets, it will be that much more difficult to resolve the problems if there is a 3rd party involved.
If you go to a retail store, like IKEA or home depot, you will see their version of RTA cabinets. Unfortunately these stores carry an inferior product, but lead you to believe that they are giving you quality at a good price. When actually it is less of a product and more expensive, its strange but they are giving you less and charging you more.
As I prompted before, I promised to explain why some RTA kitchen cabinets are better than others. When shopping around, make sure the RTA bathroom vanity or RTA kitchen cabinets is made of solid wood faces and paneled wood sides, buying particleboard is simply not a good idea.
So in the end, shop around at a few different websites, make sure that you are comparing apples to apples. Make sure you are buying a cabinet that is solid wood and has paneled wood sides. Nothing else is good enough for your kitchen. Finally make sure the site is a reliable site, call them or look through the site. Look for testimonials or other proof of reliability. By keeping these things in check and making sure the web site follows through with samples or answers to your questions, will not only make your experience easier, but it will also make it worthwhile. Good luck and start shopping for your new RTA kitchen.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: I have been remodeling houses and rental properties for over 15 years. I have discovered the secret to saving thousands on kitchen cabinets. Find out my secret to buying kitchen cabinets at 30-40% below retail.
When shopping online you are really going to find four different styles of cabinets- made to order, semi-custom cabinets, stock cabinets, and RTA Cabinets. What I would like to focus on are the RTA Cabinets, which is where you are going to save the most money and still get a higher quality product. What does RTA mean and why is it so important? RTA kitchen cabinet or RTA bathroom vanity should be a phrase to get familiar with and at the same time, be comfortable saying. Ready to assemble is the words behind these three letters. The reason it is so important is because you can buy RTA kitchen cabinets or bathroom vanities and save 30% to 40% from buying retail. Yes, that is a fact. Buying cabinets and assembling them yourself will save you a good amount of money. Don't worry the cabinet are easy to assemble. Well, I should say some styles of RTA are easy to assemble, but I will get to this later, just remember that if you get the correct RTA kitchen cabinets, you will have very little trouble with putting them together.
Buying online can be confusing, since there are hundreds of sites selling the same style of cabinets at a wide range of prices. Go to a few RTA sites and make sure you have compared prices. The good RTA sites will not offer gimmicks like free shipping. There is no such thing; these sites will make up for it with higher pricing. Also look for the straight forward, no frills sites. These sites usually offer the best pricing, and should be warehousing the cabinets, not using a 3rd party to ship their product. In the event there is a problem with the cabinets, it will be that much more difficult to resolve the problems if there is a 3rd party involved.
If you go to a retail store, like IKEA or home depot, you will see their version of RTA cabinets. Unfortunately these stores carry an inferior product, but lead you to believe that they are giving you quality at a good price. When actually it is less of a product and more expensive, its strange but they are giving you less and charging you more.
As I prompted before, I promised to explain why some RTA kitchen cabinets are better than others. When shopping around, make sure the RTA bathroom vanity or RTA kitchen cabinets is made of solid wood faces and paneled wood sides, buying particleboard is simply not a good idea.
So in the end, shop around at a few different websites, make sure that you are comparing apples to apples. Make sure you are buying a cabinet that is solid wood and has paneled wood sides. Nothing else is good enough for your kitchen. Finally make sure the site is a reliable site, call them or look through the site. Look for testimonials or other proof of reliability. By keeping these things in check and making sure the web site follows through with samples or answers to your questions, will not only make your experience easier, but it will also make it worthwhile. Good luck and start shopping for your new RTA kitchen.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: I have been remodeling houses and rental properties for over 15 years. I have discovered the secret to saving thousands on kitchen cabinets. Find out my secret to buying kitchen cabinets at 30-40% below retail.
A Simple Guide to Building Kitchen Cabinets
Building kitchen cabinets is certainly within the reach of most people, especially if they are of a regular size. Even though carcasses come in different sizes, they are all essentially built in exactly the same way, so once you have put the first couple together the rest should be a lot easier to manage.
But admitting your kitchen isn't a regular square or rectangle shape? What if you have a sloping roof? Or an awkward recess? Or simply an irregular wall that needs to be hidden behind your kitchen cabinets?
In this case, building kitchen cabinets might not be as easy as you think. Proper preparation is required here to make sure the finished kitchen looks as good as it should. Here are some tips for making your ideal kitchen come true.
Building kitchen cabinets of an irregular shape needn't be as hard as you think. In fact, in some cases such as the above example of the irregular walls you might not need to butcher regular size cabinets at all.
Find out if the kitchen range you are considering has wall cabinets that are the same height as floor cabinets. If it does, simply buy a wall cabinet in place of a floor cabinet. They are not as deep and will save you the trouble of trying to cut an awkward shape in the back of your floor cabinet.
Building kitchen cabinets that need to go under a sloping roof can be done in two ways. The easiest option is to buy several different heights of cabinet, so that the cabinets are staggered in height. Attractive boxes can be bought to fit in the gaps, or alternatively you can use the space for storing cookery books.
Secondly, and depending on what style door you choose, you can cut down both the door and the cabinet, so as to allow a perfect fit between the sloping roof and the cabinet itself. Make sure the door won't scrape against the wall when it's fitted.
When you are building kitchen cabinets, it's important to fit all the carcasses in place first, before you fit the doors or interiors. This is the quickest and easiest way to install any kitchen, and it means your doors will stay wrapped up and safely stored away while the main building work is done.
Imagine how you will feel once you hang the doors and get them level, you can then stand back to admire your new kitchen. Your joy will be infectious to everyone around since you designed and built it.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: Captivating articles about products and services you need and must have. Subscribe to my feed.
Link. Visit my website for more fascinating articles
But admitting your kitchen isn't a regular square or rectangle shape? What if you have a sloping roof? Or an awkward recess? Or simply an irregular wall that needs to be hidden behind your kitchen cabinets?
In this case, building kitchen cabinets might not be as easy as you think. Proper preparation is required here to make sure the finished kitchen looks as good as it should. Here are some tips for making your ideal kitchen come true.
Building kitchen cabinets of an irregular shape needn't be as hard as you think. In fact, in some cases such as the above example of the irregular walls you might not need to butcher regular size cabinets at all.
Find out if the kitchen range you are considering has wall cabinets that are the same height as floor cabinets. If it does, simply buy a wall cabinet in place of a floor cabinet. They are not as deep and will save you the trouble of trying to cut an awkward shape in the back of your floor cabinet.
Building kitchen cabinets that need to go under a sloping roof can be done in two ways. The easiest option is to buy several different heights of cabinet, so that the cabinets are staggered in height. Attractive boxes can be bought to fit in the gaps, or alternatively you can use the space for storing cookery books.
Secondly, and depending on what style door you choose, you can cut down both the door and the cabinet, so as to allow a perfect fit between the sloping roof and the cabinet itself. Make sure the door won't scrape against the wall when it's fitted.
When you are building kitchen cabinets, it's important to fit all the carcasses in place first, before you fit the doors or interiors. This is the quickest and easiest way to install any kitchen, and it means your doors will stay wrapped up and safely stored away while the main building work is done.
Imagine how you will feel once you hang the doors and get them level, you can then stand back to admire your new kitchen. Your joy will be infectious to everyone around since you designed and built it.
Article Provided By: My Articles Directory
About the Author: Captivating articles about products and services you need and must have. Subscribe to my feed.
Link. Visit my website for more fascinating articles
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Kitchen Design – Understanding The Work Triangle And Kitchen Layouts
Having a good layout for your kitchen is important, because the kitchen should be an efficient and pleasant area in which to prepare meals and do related tasks. Understanding the kitchen work triangle concept and the basic kitchen layouts is a valuable starting point for having a good kitchen design that you like.
The kitchen work triangle consists of the distance between the sink, refrigerator and range or cooktop. Each one of these areas becomes a focal point in the kitchen and forms the three points of a triangle with different distances between them. Done correctly, the kitchen work triangle provides the most efficient food preparation area layout in the kitchen.
Whether you’re remodeling an existing kitchen or building a new one, an efficient design means that your work triangle minimizes the number of steps the cook must take between the three areas during meal preparation and cleanup. The total distance from the sink to the stove to the refrigerator and back to the sink should be not less than 12 feet total nor more than 27 feet. Each triangle leg should measure between 4 and 9 feet in length. The kitchen isles should be at least 42 to 48 inches wide to allow people to move around easily and for appliances to be opened with ease.
When selecting the floor plan for your kitchen, here are basic kitchen layouts to consider:
* L-Shaped Kitchen - this is the most popular kitchen design. It consists of a long leg and a shorter one and this type of design can be used in small and large kitchens. The L-shaped kitchen gives you the possibility of having a center island depending on the space available. In general, this design will have 2 or 3 appliances on one wall. The usual arrangement is to have the refrigerator at one end, the range or cooktop at the other end with the sink located in the middle. This shape of kitchen generally provides good traffic flow.
* Double L-Shaped Kitchen - this kitchen design has a lot of cabinet space and plenty of counter space. This design is used in large kitchens with two cooks, and it has two or more entering areas, which can cause traffic flow problems. To avoid some of these problems, create two separate working areas on each L of the kitchen so that workflow does not get interrupted by human traffic.
* U-Shaped Kitchen - this kitchen design shape has three walls instead of two, and the sink usually is located in the middle wall section. The refrigerator and range or cooktop are usually on the side walls opposite each other. The U-shaped kitchen design gives room for ample countertop space, and you have three walls for cabinets and appliances. This kitchen layout tends to create a working triangle that is very efficient.
The only problem with this type of kitchen design is that sometimes the two U corners are not used appropriately. Make sure you buy the appropriate storage items for the corner cabinets created by the U shape design. The U shape design can also create dark kitchens because of the shape and the amount of cabinets. Using skylights, large windows, lots of under-cabinet task lighting and light colors will help keep the kitchen bright with sufficient light to see what you’re doing.
* G-Shaped Kitchen - this type of kitchen shape is becoming very popular, and it gives you a fourth wall to use. The G-shape can be used if you have more than one cook in the house. This fourth wall section can be used for a counter, island and storage space. With this kitchen layout you can have two sinks, perhaps two cooktops or two ranges. You could have two working triangles - one for sink, cook top or range and refrigerator and a second working triangle with another sink, built-in grill and cooktop. It allows two cooks to do different things at the same time and entertain large groups of people.
* Single-Wall Kitchen - if you do not have much space, you may only be able to have an I-shaped kitchen. No problem. Just be sure the sink is placed between the refrigerator and the stove. Locate the refrigerator so that the refrigerator door opens away from the kitchen sink. This is a very common arrangement for small kitchens in narrow spaces.
* Galley-Shaped Kitchen - this type of kitchen design is more common in apartments or in homes where space is limited -- it is often called the corridor style. The kitchen cabinets and the appliances can be located on opposite walls for better work flow - place the range or cooktop on one side of the kitchen along one wall and the refrigerator and sink on the opposite wall.
To eliminate traffic issues in this type of kitchen design, one entry is often closed off. This type of layout should only be used by one cook. If you want to maintain both exits, place the refrigerator near the end of the galley kitchen for easy access - this way, your family and friends can reach the refrigerator without interfering with the person who is cooking. If you need extra storage in the galley kitchen, install tall kitchen cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling. Wall storage is crucial - buy a stepladder to use when you need to reach the upper shelf of the cabinets, and place the items you use less frequently on the upper shelves.
By understanding the kitchen work triangle concept and how you want your kitchen to function, you’ll be more likely to create the kind of kitchen you’ve always wanted. Today, kitchens are often viewed as the hub of the home as well as a social center for family and friends. Planning your kitchen can be a challenge, but the rewards you’ll receive are very much worth the time and effort.
The kitchen work triangle consists of the distance between the sink, refrigerator and range or cooktop. Each one of these areas becomes a focal point in the kitchen and forms the three points of a triangle with different distances between them. Done correctly, the kitchen work triangle provides the most efficient food preparation area layout in the kitchen.
Whether you’re remodeling an existing kitchen or building a new one, an efficient design means that your work triangle minimizes the number of steps the cook must take between the three areas during meal preparation and cleanup. The total distance from the sink to the stove to the refrigerator and back to the sink should be not less than 12 feet total nor more than 27 feet. Each triangle leg should measure between 4 and 9 feet in length. The kitchen isles should be at least 42 to 48 inches wide to allow people to move around easily and for appliances to be opened with ease.
When selecting the floor plan for your kitchen, here are basic kitchen layouts to consider:
* L-Shaped Kitchen - this is the most popular kitchen design. It consists of a long leg and a shorter one and this type of design can be used in small and large kitchens. The L-shaped kitchen gives you the possibility of having a center island depending on the space available. In general, this design will have 2 or 3 appliances on one wall. The usual arrangement is to have the refrigerator at one end, the range or cooktop at the other end with the sink located in the middle. This shape of kitchen generally provides good traffic flow.
* Double L-Shaped Kitchen - this kitchen design has a lot of cabinet space and plenty of counter space. This design is used in large kitchens with two cooks, and it has two or more entering areas, which can cause traffic flow problems. To avoid some of these problems, create two separate working areas on each L of the kitchen so that workflow does not get interrupted by human traffic.
* U-Shaped Kitchen - this kitchen design shape has three walls instead of two, and the sink usually is located in the middle wall section. The refrigerator and range or cooktop are usually on the side walls opposite each other. The U-shaped kitchen design gives room for ample countertop space, and you have three walls for cabinets and appliances. This kitchen layout tends to create a working triangle that is very efficient.
The only problem with this type of kitchen design is that sometimes the two U corners are not used appropriately. Make sure you buy the appropriate storage items for the corner cabinets created by the U shape design. The U shape design can also create dark kitchens because of the shape and the amount of cabinets. Using skylights, large windows, lots of under-cabinet task lighting and light colors will help keep the kitchen bright with sufficient light to see what you’re doing.
* G-Shaped Kitchen - this type of kitchen shape is becoming very popular, and it gives you a fourth wall to use. The G-shape can be used if you have more than one cook in the house. This fourth wall section can be used for a counter, island and storage space. With this kitchen layout you can have two sinks, perhaps two cooktops or two ranges. You could have two working triangles - one for sink, cook top or range and refrigerator and a second working triangle with another sink, built-in grill and cooktop. It allows two cooks to do different things at the same time and entertain large groups of people.
* Single-Wall Kitchen - if you do not have much space, you may only be able to have an I-shaped kitchen. No problem. Just be sure the sink is placed between the refrigerator and the stove. Locate the refrigerator so that the refrigerator door opens away from the kitchen sink. This is a very common arrangement for small kitchens in narrow spaces.
* Galley-Shaped Kitchen - this type of kitchen design is more common in apartments or in homes where space is limited -- it is often called the corridor style. The kitchen cabinets and the appliances can be located on opposite walls for better work flow - place the range or cooktop on one side of the kitchen along one wall and the refrigerator and sink on the opposite wall.
To eliminate traffic issues in this type of kitchen design, one entry is often closed off. This type of layout should only be used by one cook. If you want to maintain both exits, place the refrigerator near the end of the galley kitchen for easy access - this way, your family and friends can reach the refrigerator without interfering with the person who is cooking. If you need extra storage in the galley kitchen, install tall kitchen cabinets that go all the way to the ceiling. Wall storage is crucial - buy a stepladder to use when you need to reach the upper shelf of the cabinets, and place the items you use less frequently on the upper shelves.
By understanding the kitchen work triangle concept and how you want your kitchen to function, you’ll be more likely to create the kind of kitchen you’ve always wanted. Today, kitchens are often viewed as the hub of the home as well as a social center for family and friends. Planning your kitchen can be a challenge, but the rewards you’ll receive are very much worth the time and effort.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Cabinet Hardware and Door Hardware Makes a Quick and Easy Remodel
Author: Anna Woodward
When people are interested in remodeling their houses, they spend months drawing up plans, shopping for appliances and fixtures, cabinet hardware or countertops, picking out tub, faucets and accessories that will highlight the house. The ability to purchase beautiful styles and finishes of cabinet hardware and fixtures used to be restricted to those who could afford to spend a lot of money on their renovation. But, with the influx of new manufacturers, high fashion design is attainable for individuals of all socioeconomic backgrounds. Many companies can offer consumers both unique style with gorgeous finish and a great price.
Remodeling your Kitchen
Before remodeling your kitchen, research and take pictures of your dream cooking space. If you are looking to remodel your kitchen cabinets and if they are made of real wood, you may want to cut down cost and paint them yourself instead of replacing them. Older cabinets usually have more character and are more durable than the newer ones. If your cabinet needs to be totally replaced, then you can cut costs by ordering unfinished kitchen cabinets and painting them yourself. When choosing paint, ask your local paint store for a primer that sticks to a laminate surface. In addition, decorative crown molding can give kitchen cabinets a polished professional look.
Always a quick and easy update to older cabinets is refreshing them with new cabinet hardware, handles or knobs. Just switching out the worn and dingy to a newer modern style can make the cooking space feel so much fresher.
Floor in kitchen are subject to a lot of abuse over the same area. Instead of replacing floors, sanding and stripping can help the floor look more beautiful again especially when painted with high gloss enamel which will give the wood a new finish. Imperfections on old flooring can be covered with a lovely rug. Install new window curtains to change the look of a kitchen. Change your lighting by changing the ceiling fixtures, bulbs or lamps. Changing the lighting can create a whole new look and can even make the kitchen look larger. Where space is at a premium, look for creative storage options.
Remodeling the Bathroom
Select faucets and door hardware that are within scale of other elements in the room. If you are putting in a kitchen sink, carefully consider fixtures. As you choose the faucet for your bathroom project, make sure your bath accessories are available in that same style and finish to keep the personality you brought to the room consistent. Unique showerheads and shower systems continue to grow in popularity and can also bring customization to your bathroom.
Again, keep the styling and finish compatible with other fixtures in the room whenever possible. Research a product's quality. A pretty faucet is not pretty if it leaks or does not operate smoothly. Buy components that ensure a long-lasting, reliable product because you don't want to renovate that same room next. Shop around for the styling and finish you prefer and then compare prices with other brands that offer a similar style.
The choices available to you for your home remodeling project are endless. Make sure you bring out your personality with the unique projects. Create a beautiful room with great styling and design.
When people are interested in remodeling their houses, they spend months drawing up plans, shopping for appliances and fixtures, cabinet hardware or countertops, picking out tub, faucets and accessories that will highlight the house. The ability to purchase beautiful styles and finishes of cabinet hardware and fixtures used to be restricted to those who could afford to spend a lot of money on their renovation. But, with the influx of new manufacturers, high fashion design is attainable for individuals of all socioeconomic backgrounds. Many companies can offer consumers both unique style with gorgeous finish and a great price.
Remodeling your Kitchen
Before remodeling your kitchen, research and take pictures of your dream cooking space. If you are looking to remodel your kitchen cabinets and if they are made of real wood, you may want to cut down cost and paint them yourself instead of replacing them. Older cabinets usually have more character and are more durable than the newer ones. If your cabinet needs to be totally replaced, then you can cut costs by ordering unfinished kitchen cabinets and painting them yourself. When choosing paint, ask your local paint store for a primer that sticks to a laminate surface. In addition, decorative crown molding can give kitchen cabinets a polished professional look.
Always a quick and easy update to older cabinets is refreshing them with new cabinet hardware, handles or knobs. Just switching out the worn and dingy to a newer modern style can make the cooking space feel so much fresher.
Floor in kitchen are subject to a lot of abuse over the same area. Instead of replacing floors, sanding and stripping can help the floor look more beautiful again especially when painted with high gloss enamel which will give the wood a new finish. Imperfections on old flooring can be covered with a lovely rug. Install new window curtains to change the look of a kitchen. Change your lighting by changing the ceiling fixtures, bulbs or lamps. Changing the lighting can create a whole new look and can even make the kitchen look larger. Where space is at a premium, look for creative storage options.
Remodeling the Bathroom
Select faucets and door hardware that are within scale of other elements in the room. If you are putting in a kitchen sink, carefully consider fixtures. As you choose the faucet for your bathroom project, make sure your bath accessories are available in that same style and finish to keep the personality you brought to the room consistent. Unique showerheads and shower systems continue to grow in popularity and can also bring customization to your bathroom.
Again, keep the styling and finish compatible with other fixtures in the room whenever possible. Research a product's quality. A pretty faucet is not pretty if it leaks or does not operate smoothly. Buy components that ensure a long-lasting, reliable product because you don't want to renovate that same room next. Shop around for the styling and finish you prefer and then compare prices with other brands that offer a similar style.
The choices available to you for your home remodeling project are endless. Make sure you bring out your personality with the unique projects. Create a beautiful room with great styling and design.
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Kitchen Cabinet Hardware – A Great Way To Spruce Up The Look Of Any Kitchen
by: Jesse Akre
The kitchen, it is the one room in the home that you and your family end up spending the most time in. Then, why is it that people tend to neglect it when it comes to decorating and making it look beautiful? If you are spending the most amount of time in there, then it should be equally gorgeous, if not more, than the rest of your home. One way to get your kitchen space on the right track is by purchasing some new kitchen cabinet hardware to give it a stellar, completed look.
Now, you might be thinking, how is new kitchen cabinet hardware going to make my kitchen that beautiful? Well, because it has a pleasing look which comes from the many different materials it can be made from. Those materials include aluminum, brass, stone, wood, ceramic, steel, zinc, pewter, plastic, wood, granite, even porcelain and glass. Each has a gorgeous appearance, plus, they are available in a number of different finishes like brushed, antiqued, satin, polished, dull, and rubbed. With the material and finished options, you can find the perfect ones to complement the kitchen cabinetry that you have, achieving any kind of look that you want in your kitchen. For example, maybe you want a trendy, contemporary look and feel in your kitchen. Then, a great choice for you would be ones crafted out of metal that have a brushed finish. Or, if you want more of an antique feel, then a great option are ones that are also made from metal, but instead have that antique finish to them. Really, you can create any kind of look that you want in your space because of all the many selections that are available. All of these materials are also very durable, which is ideal for you because they will last for years and you will not have to worry about having to replace them because they break or get damaged.
When it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware, there are different types that you can purchase depending upon what you want to replace in your kitchen area. You might need new knobs and hinges for your cabinets, pulls for your drawers, and maybe even a slide or track for inside your drawers. Probably the best thing to do though is to get ones that match because having a miss-matched look in your kitchen is pretty tacky. To find exactly what you are looking for, a fast and easy way is to hit the Internet for some comparison shopping.
So, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.
The kitchen, it is the one room in the home that you and your family end up spending the most time in. Then, why is it that people tend to neglect it when it comes to decorating and making it look beautiful? If you are spending the most amount of time in there, then it should be equally gorgeous, if not more, than the rest of your home. One way to get your kitchen space on the right track is by purchasing some new kitchen cabinet hardware to give it a stellar, completed look.
Now, you might be thinking, how is new kitchen cabinet hardware going to make my kitchen that beautiful? Well, because it has a pleasing look which comes from the many different materials it can be made from. Those materials include aluminum, brass, stone, wood, ceramic, steel, zinc, pewter, plastic, wood, granite, even porcelain and glass. Each has a gorgeous appearance, plus, they are available in a number of different finishes like brushed, antiqued, satin, polished, dull, and rubbed. With the material and finished options, you can find the perfect ones to complement the kitchen cabinetry that you have, achieving any kind of look that you want in your kitchen. For example, maybe you want a trendy, contemporary look and feel in your kitchen. Then, a great choice for you would be ones crafted out of metal that have a brushed finish. Or, if you want more of an antique feel, then a great option are ones that are also made from metal, but instead have that antique finish to them. Really, you can create any kind of look that you want in your space because of all the many selections that are available. All of these materials are also very durable, which is ideal for you because they will last for years and you will not have to worry about having to replace them because they break or get damaged.
When it comes to kitchen cabinet hardware, there are different types that you can purchase depending upon what you want to replace in your kitchen area. You might need new knobs and hinges for your cabinets, pulls for your drawers, and maybe even a slide or track for inside your drawers. Probably the best thing to do though is to get ones that match because having a miss-matched look in your kitchen is pretty tacky. To find exactly what you are looking for, a fast and easy way is to hit the Internet for some comparison shopping.
So, if you and your family end up spending the most amount of time in your kitchen, then it should probably be one of the rooms in your home that is the most beautiful. One easy and simple way of making your kitchen space into an elegant dream is by purchasing some fabulous kitchen cabinet hardware for it. Extremely beautiful, these wonderful accent pieces will give your kitchen a completed look that is sure to please.
Thursday, June 19, 2008
How To Get Your Dream Kitchen...
Author: Ron Lonsdale
Your dream kitchen is one you love to be in and to come home too. It doesn't just meet your everyday needs - it is much more. A dream kitchen reflects your personality and tastes and fits your lifestyle exactly. It is all about the feeling you get from carefully selecting, installing and using your kitchen.
A kitchen is much more than a place to prepare a meal. It's about how it looks, how it feels, and the experience and the emotion of living and creating in the perfect environment.
This means you need to personalize it - put the stamp of your personality on your kitchen. Personalizing your kitchen is all in the details. Your perfect kitchen must be one that:
• you love to live and create in
• it excites your every sense
• reflects you and your personal style
• you must show-off and really impresses your friends
• makes entertaining fun and easy
• works efficiently and quickly for you
• functions as perfectly as it looks
A perfect kitchen comes in many forms and is made up of numerous components and appliances. From lighting to cabinetry you need to select the best products. Your ideal kitchen is one that is filled with items that are beautiful, durable and function perfectly together.
You must have the best quality and value components for your kitchen. Today's dream kitchen is one of the biggest, if not the biggest investment you will make in your home.
After choosing your cabinets and appliances, it's a good time to put the final touches on your kitchen to make it run like a well-oiled, personalized machine.
The lights in your kitchen make a big impact. Small accessories will influence the style of your kitchen and determine how easy it is to use. Versatile work surfaces are critical for a functional space that allows you to create. It's your kitchen, so let your personality shine through!
Your dream kitchen is not about the price. A well designed, finely crafted kitchen can be designed and built at a reasonable cost. Establishing a realistic budget for your project and shopping accordingly are essential.
Choosing your kitchen style and bringing it to life is really the fun part. Cabinetry is available at a wide range of prices. You don't have to invest in the most expensive cabinetry on the market to build the perfect kitchen. You can save by selecting and buying the components yourself and developing a plan and budget based on your needs.
Surfaces must be smooth and seamless. Cupboards should go up to the ceiling eliminating dust catching wasted space. Bench tops should have no visible joins with under bench sinks that sit below the bench top so you can't see the edges. To ensure you design your dream kitchen you must:
• streamline all surfaces
• integrate appliances - make them scarce
• choose a beautiful splashback
• select a modern bench top
• use an island for entertaining
• choose color to create calm
• design the right layout
• switch to clever lighting
• minimize handles
• maximize your storage
When it comes to getting a perfect new kitchen a little bit of knowledge goes a long way. Planning will save you time, money and ensure your kitchen totally meets your needs.
Your dream kitchen is one you love to be in and to come home too. It doesn't just meet your everyday needs - it is much more. A dream kitchen reflects your personality and tastes and fits your lifestyle exactly. It is all about the feeling you get from carefully selecting, installing and using your kitchen.
A kitchen is much more than a place to prepare a meal. It's about how it looks, how it feels, and the experience and the emotion of living and creating in the perfect environment.
This means you need to personalize it - put the stamp of your personality on your kitchen. Personalizing your kitchen is all in the details. Your perfect kitchen must be one that:
• you love to live and create in
• it excites your every sense
• reflects you and your personal style
• you must show-off and really impresses your friends
• makes entertaining fun and easy
• works efficiently and quickly for you
• functions as perfectly as it looks
A perfect kitchen comes in many forms and is made up of numerous components and appliances. From lighting to cabinetry you need to select the best products. Your ideal kitchen is one that is filled with items that are beautiful, durable and function perfectly together.
You must have the best quality and value components for your kitchen. Today's dream kitchen is one of the biggest, if not the biggest investment you will make in your home.
After choosing your cabinets and appliances, it's a good time to put the final touches on your kitchen to make it run like a well-oiled, personalized machine.
The lights in your kitchen make a big impact. Small accessories will influence the style of your kitchen and determine how easy it is to use. Versatile work surfaces are critical for a functional space that allows you to create. It's your kitchen, so let your personality shine through!
Your dream kitchen is not about the price. A well designed, finely crafted kitchen can be designed and built at a reasonable cost. Establishing a realistic budget for your project and shopping accordingly are essential.
Choosing your kitchen style and bringing it to life is really the fun part. Cabinetry is available at a wide range of prices. You don't have to invest in the most expensive cabinetry on the market to build the perfect kitchen. You can save by selecting and buying the components yourself and developing a plan and budget based on your needs.
Surfaces must be smooth and seamless. Cupboards should go up to the ceiling eliminating dust catching wasted space. Bench tops should have no visible joins with under bench sinks that sit below the bench top so you can't see the edges. To ensure you design your dream kitchen you must:
• streamline all surfaces
• integrate appliances - make them scarce
• choose a beautiful splashback
• select a modern bench top
• use an island for entertaining
• choose color to create calm
• design the right layout
• switch to clever lighting
• minimize handles
• maximize your storage
When it comes to getting a perfect new kitchen a little bit of knowledge goes a long way. Planning will save you time, money and ensure your kitchen totally meets your needs.
Learn How to Change the Look of Your Kitchen Cabinets with Minor Changes
Learn How to Change the Look of Your Kitchen Cabinets with Minor Changes: "Over time the surface and outlook of kitchen cabinets can become dull. This is due to the moisture that is found in a kitchen along with the steam and cooking fumes.
One of the easiest and least expensive ways to change the look of your kitchen is by replacing your kitchen cabinet handles. Although the changes might be small, but they are important as they tend to draw the eye in.
Choosing new kitchen cabinet handles can be more difficult than you think. With so many different kinds of styles and colors to choose from, it's not an easy task to pick just one that will blend in you with kitchen.
Kitchen cabinet handles can come in a circular shape, rectangular square and even oblong. If your cabinets already have a rectangular border around them, maybe you would to avoid handles of the same shape.
The next big decision is the material that the handles are crafted from. Metals and plastics are generally the two most popular. Although wicker handles are making a comeback as well.
New handles are a fun way to change the look of your kitchen. Maybe you want to be bold and put red handles on white doors or black handles on yellow doors.
Replacing your kitchen cabinet hinge is another easy yet eye catching changes. Many people find it easiest to choose a kitchen cabinet hinge that matches the handles they use. In fact many hardware and home improvement stores pack their handles and hinges together. This is certainly the best way to ensure that all of the hardware on your cabinets matches.
What happens if you decide on a colored handle? You also might want to consider colored hinges. Generally colored hinges are crafted from plastic. It wouldn't be a good choice for cabinet that will be used frequently."
One of the easiest and least expensive ways to change the look of your kitchen is by replacing your kitchen cabinet handles. Although the changes might be small, but they are important as they tend to draw the eye in.
Choosing new kitchen cabinet handles can be more difficult than you think. With so many different kinds of styles and colors to choose from, it's not an easy task to pick just one that will blend in you with kitchen.
Kitchen cabinet handles can come in a circular shape, rectangular square and even oblong. If your cabinets already have a rectangular border around them, maybe you would to avoid handles of the same shape.
The next big decision is the material that the handles are crafted from. Metals and plastics are generally the two most popular. Although wicker handles are making a comeback as well.
New handles are a fun way to change the look of your kitchen. Maybe you want to be bold and put red handles on white doors or black handles on yellow doors.
Replacing your kitchen cabinet hinge is another easy yet eye catching changes. Many people find it easiest to choose a kitchen cabinet hinge that matches the handles they use. In fact many hardware and home improvement stores pack their handles and hinges together. This is certainly the best way to ensure that all of the hardware on your cabinets matches.
What happens if you decide on a colored handle? You also might want to consider colored hinges. Generally colored hinges are crafted from plastic. It wouldn't be a good choice for cabinet that will be used frequently."
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Discount Kitchen Cabinets vs. Kitchen Cabinet Refacing
Author: Rebecca Noel
A complete set of kitchen cabinets can start at around $800 at the bottom of the line for discount kitchen cabinets and go all the way up to $100,000 for a high quality set.
To estimate the costs of your kitchen cabinets measure the length of the area that will have base cabinets, the ones that sit on the floor, and the length of the wall cabinets.
Add these two numbers together and you have the number of lineal feet of required cabinets. If it is your intent to install a pantry or other cabinet that is floor to ceiling, include the length dimension in both the base and wall cabinet number.
Most home centers and kitchen cabinet specialty retailers will post an average lineal price for each design and quality. The price per lineal foot does not include the countertop or cabinet installation.
The lineal foot price indicated is usually based on a 10-foot long, straight wall configuration, (no corner cabinets required or glass doors). It will not include any trim or cabinet options and in most cases will not include doorknobs, or drawer pulls. Unless specifically indicated the price will not include installation.
As a rule of thumb, you can double the lineal foot price of the cabinets to arrive at the total cost of the project, installed.
The lineal per foot cost is in the doors and hardware. Doors can be made of veneered MDF or hardwoods that are richly stained. Luxury door hardware, such as hinges, knobs, and pulls can add as much as $50 to the price of a specific cabinet.
Drawer slides are also an important price driver. Quality drawer slides make a major difference to the price of a cabinet.
When you are shopping for your cabinets, pay special attention to the hardware that is used and fabrication techniques. Make sure you are comparing similar qualities when looking at best price.
Knowledge and planning are the keys to a successful home remodel project.
Kitchen cabinets have an enormous spread in pricing from $80 a lineal foot for laminate faced, self-assembly to $300 a lineal foot for hardwood doors, glass insets, and ceiling trims.
Because of this spread in price, it is important to set a top amount that you can afford. Then you consider the cabinet designs available up to that price point.
If your cabinets are in good shape, or at least the frame is in good shape, and you like the configuration, consider replacing just the doors. Combined with a refinishing job on the frame, this option can give you a whole new look at a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
The choices are simple when it comes to doors: replace them completely, refinish your existing doors or do a combination of both.
Replacing your doors is quite self-explanatory; unless you have strangely designed custom-built doors, door sizes are standard and replacements will be easy to find at any good home renovation store or cabinet manufacturing company.
Judge replacement doors just as you would the entire cabinets. Look for quality materials and excellent finishes.
Another option is kitchen cabinet refacing. kitchen cabinet refacing involves removing your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers and resurfacing them with wood or laminate veneer. The newly refaced doors and drawer fronts are then mounted using new hinges and pull.
For the best look, the interior edges of the face frame should also be faced, or at least completely sanded and refinished. This process is much less expensive than replacing your kitchen cabinets, yet provides a fresh updated look.
The cost of having the average kitchen refaced by a professional kitchen cabinet refacing company can run between $2500-$5000 depending on the size, number and layout of the existing cabinets, and is considerably less than replacing the whole kitchen. Kitchen cabinet refacing can usually be done in about 3-5 work days.
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A complete set of kitchen cabinets can start at around $800 at the bottom of the line for discount kitchen cabinets and go all the way up to $100,000 for a high quality set.
To estimate the costs of your kitchen cabinets measure the length of the area that will have base cabinets, the ones that sit on the floor, and the length of the wall cabinets.
Add these two numbers together and you have the number of lineal feet of required cabinets. If it is your intent to install a pantry or other cabinet that is floor to ceiling, include the length dimension in both the base and wall cabinet number.
Most home centers and kitchen cabinet specialty retailers will post an average lineal price for each design and quality. The price per lineal foot does not include the countertop or cabinet installation.
The lineal foot price indicated is usually based on a 10-foot long, straight wall configuration, (no corner cabinets required or glass doors). It will not include any trim or cabinet options and in most cases will not include doorknobs, or drawer pulls. Unless specifically indicated the price will not include installation.
As a rule of thumb, you can double the lineal foot price of the cabinets to arrive at the total cost of the project, installed.
The lineal per foot cost is in the doors and hardware. Doors can be made of veneered MDF or hardwoods that are richly stained. Luxury door hardware, such as hinges, knobs, and pulls can add as much as $50 to the price of a specific cabinet.
Drawer slides are also an important price driver. Quality drawer slides make a major difference to the price of a cabinet.
When you are shopping for your cabinets, pay special attention to the hardware that is used and fabrication techniques. Make sure you are comparing similar qualities when looking at best price.
Knowledge and planning are the keys to a successful home remodel project.
Kitchen cabinets have an enormous spread in pricing from $80 a lineal foot for laminate faced, self-assembly to $300 a lineal foot for hardwood doors, glass insets, and ceiling trims.
Because of this spread in price, it is important to set a top amount that you can afford. Then you consider the cabinet designs available up to that price point.
If your cabinets are in good shape, or at least the frame is in good shape, and you like the configuration, consider replacing just the doors. Combined with a refinishing job on the frame, this option can give you a whole new look at a fraction of the cost of new cabinets.
The choices are simple when it comes to doors: replace them completely, refinish your existing doors or do a combination of both.
Replacing your doors is quite self-explanatory; unless you have strangely designed custom-built doors, door sizes are standard and replacements will be easy to find at any good home renovation store or cabinet manufacturing company.
Judge replacement doors just as you would the entire cabinets. Look for quality materials and excellent finishes.
Another option is kitchen cabinet refacing. kitchen cabinet refacing involves removing your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers and resurfacing them with wood or laminate veneer. The newly refaced doors and drawer fronts are then mounted using new hinges and pull.
For the best look, the interior edges of the face frame should also be faced, or at least completely sanded and refinished. This process is much less expensive than replacing your kitchen cabinets, yet provides a fresh updated look.
The cost of having the average kitchen refaced by a professional kitchen cabinet refacing company can run between $2500-$5000 depending on the size, number and layout of the existing cabinets, and is considerably less than replacing the whole kitchen. Kitchen cabinet refacing can usually be done in about 3-5 work days.
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Saturday, June 14, 2008
Some Things to Know About The Kitchen Hinge
By Arturo Ronzon
When you are replacing or refacing your existing kitchen cabinets, you need to consider the hardware for your new purchases. The right hardware for your new kitchen cabinets will be the final touch the room needs to bring it all together. Kitchen cabinet hardware consists of drawer pulls, kitchen cabinet pulls, and the kitchen cabinet hinge to name a few.
There is a lot to consider when you are shopping for the kitchen cabinet hinge. With all the manufacturers to choose from, it can become a difficult undertaking. You not only have to choose a manufacturer for the kitchen cabinet hinge, but you will need to decide what type of finish you want and what style will be right for the look you are seeking.
A kitchen cabinet hinge comes in many styles. There is an overlay kitchen cabinet hinge, an inset kitchen cabinet hinge, a flush kitchen cabinet hinge, or a concealed kitchen cabinet hinge. There is also a wrap kitchen cabinet hinge, a self-closing or free-swinging kitchen cabinet hinge.
A concealed kitchen cabinet hinge is not visible when the kitchen cabinet door is closed.
The demountable kitchen cabinet hinge comes in a single or double selection. These types screw directly into the face frame. A free-swinging kitchen cabinet hinge online doesn’t use any type of closing mechanism so it doesn’t close by itself. It doesn’t matter with this type whether the kitchen cabinet hinge is concealed or not.
A self-closing kitchen cabinet hinge will close by itself with no help from you. These types of cabinets are not recommended for those with small children. You don’t want to worry that little fingers will be hurt when using them.
You can find a lot of information if you visit your local home improvement store. If you have any questions, you will be able to speak to someone on staff. They will be able to help you and lead you down the right path regarding the kitchen cabinet hinge that will work best for your lifestyle.
You can also do research about kitchen cabinet hinge online. You can learn much when you surf home improvement sites and you won’t feel like such a dunce when you go into the store to shop.
When you are replacing or refacing your existing kitchen cabinets, you need to consider the hardware for your new purchases. The right hardware for your new kitchen cabinets will be the final touch the room needs to bring it all together. Kitchen cabinet hardware consists of drawer pulls, kitchen cabinet pulls, and the kitchen cabinet hinge to name a few.
There is a lot to consider when you are shopping for the kitchen cabinet hinge. With all the manufacturers to choose from, it can become a difficult undertaking. You not only have to choose a manufacturer for the kitchen cabinet hinge, but you will need to decide what type of finish you want and what style will be right for the look you are seeking.
A kitchen cabinet hinge comes in many styles. There is an overlay kitchen cabinet hinge, an inset kitchen cabinet hinge, a flush kitchen cabinet hinge, or a concealed kitchen cabinet hinge. There is also a wrap kitchen cabinet hinge, a self-closing or free-swinging kitchen cabinet hinge.
A concealed kitchen cabinet hinge is not visible when the kitchen cabinet door is closed.
The demountable kitchen cabinet hinge comes in a single or double selection. These types screw directly into the face frame. A free-swinging kitchen cabinet hinge online doesn’t use any type of closing mechanism so it doesn’t close by itself. It doesn’t matter with this type whether the kitchen cabinet hinge is concealed or not.
A self-closing kitchen cabinet hinge will close by itself with no help from you. These types of cabinets are not recommended for those with small children. You don’t want to worry that little fingers will be hurt when using them.
You can find a lot of information if you visit your local home improvement store. If you have any questions, you will be able to speak to someone on staff. They will be able to help you and lead you down the right path regarding the kitchen cabinet hinge that will work best for your lifestyle.
You can also do research about kitchen cabinet hinge online. You can learn much when you surf home improvement sites and you won’t feel like such a dunce when you go into the store to shop.
How to Organize a Kitchen
By Sherrie Le Masurier
There's no doubt about it, a well-organized kitchen is an efficient one. Learning how to organize your kitchen is easy if you keep a few key factors in mind.
This article features the importance of purging yourself of kitchen items you don't need, discusses the importance of replacing (or in some cases repairing) things that don't work properly, as well as the importance of storing items close to where they'll be used. You'll also learn why keeping your counters clutter-free is important and why taking the time to clean as you go saves you time in the long run.
Purge
Be honest with yourself - when was the last time your used that melon baller or cookie press? What about all those other kitchen gadgets you have lying around - do you even know what they do? And what about those items you have duplicates of - do you really need to have more than one?
Consider also what kinds of tools you have that could do double duty. For instance, Susanne and I use our ice cream scoops for both serving ice cream and portioning out muffin batter and ground meat for mini meat loaves.
Plus if you get rid of those extra items you don't really need, you won't waste valuable kitchen storage space or have to hunt past them when looking for other things.
Fix or Replace
A kitchen isn't efficient if it contains things that don't work up to par. If only one side of your toaster works or the non-stick finish on your frying pan is worn - replace it! However if the item is something that can be fixed, don't automatically toss it. Instead try to fix it yourself or find a reputable handyman or service person to do the job.
Keep Things Accessible
Efficient kitchens are all about having what you need at your fingertips. You can enhance the efficiency of your kitchen even more by storing the items you use on a frequent basis close to the area of your kitchen you use them in. That way, you save unnecessary steps and don't have to search out all the necessary items to complete a task.
Infrequently used items like the pan you roast your holiday turkey in should be stored on a high shelf or in the back of a kitchen cabinet. You could also opt to store such items elsewhere in your home like in the garage, basement, guest room closet, or even in a box under your bed.
Eliminate Clutter
If it doesn't need to be on your counter - get rid of it. Only tools you need to keep handy and those that can't be stored in drawers, cabinets, or hung on your backsplash should be kept on your kitchen counters.
Clean As You Go
It really pays to organize and clean at the same time. Each time you clean out a drawer or cabinet take the time to wipe it out before replacing the contents. That way, your kitchen is not only organized but it's also clean and you won't have to do another big cleaning job for awhile. Also, if you get in the habit of cleaning up immediately after making a meal or snack you'll find regular kitchen maintenance less of a chore. Each time you enter your kitchen to perform a new task it will be like starting with a clean slate, you won't have to wash a pile of dishes or clear off the counter first.
While the above are key factors in effectively organizing your kitchen, there are several other things to consider if you want your kitchen to operate efficiently on a daily basis. Give some thought to how your kitchen is used. Once you've considered the many roles your kitchen plays e.g. baking, entertaining friends, doing homework etc. you'll want to create individual activity zones and related storage areas.
Buying the Perfect Kitchen Cabinets For Your Style and Lifestyle
By Gary Nealon
Selecting the right kitchen cabinets can be an eye-opening experience (and expensive). Kitchen cabinets come in a wide variety of styles, materials, finishes, and levels of quality. From wood or metal to veneers like melamine, cabinet set designs are varied. Whatever style or theme you're conveying in your kitchen, there are kitchen cabinets to complement it.
Many traditional styles of kitchen cabinets are made from hardwood. They may have mullion glass doors to complement fine china sets, along with cathedral-type arch work. Traditional cabinets will also have the largest selection of accessories and modifications. Many of the designs come from the 18th and 19th centuries and can transform your kitchen into a timeless masterpiece. Whether renovating to match the rest of your historic home, or bringing some historic charm to your house, traditional cabinets are a great way to go.
Provencal kitchens are designed to evoke French country kitchens. They often lack high-wall cabinets, relying instead on low cabinets for pots, pans and serving ware. Shelves lining the walls keep essentials at hand. The entire kitchen is focused around the dining table. Colors range from light and dark browns to deep greens. If you want to travel to the Provence region whenever you cook and entertain, look at some Provencal cabinet sets and match your table accordingly.
If you're looking for something more down-home, try a country-style kitchen cabinet set. Country-style cabinets have very clean lines and a simple look. Ordinary paint may be chipped away to give the wood a rustic feel and the handles may be mismatched to give the kitchen a "thrown-together" look. Even in the same room, finishes may be different to enhance this look. If you're ready to make your kitchen look just like an old farm house, invest in some country-style cabinets.
Cottage-style (also called rustic-style) kitchens mix the shelving units of the Provencal style with the distressed look of country cabinet sets. They bring the same sense of comfort as these two styles. Cottage cabinet sets come in a variety of woods, from oak to maple. A very common type of wood used for cottage cabinets is Pine or Notty Pine. Pine is known for its bold grain lines and durable strength. A cottage kitchen is meant to be cozy and comforting. Sometimes cottage cabinets don't have doors; which allows serving wares to be easily accessed. If this sounds like the kitchen of your dreams, choose cottage cabinets.
Modern kitchen cabinet styles rely on sleek surfaces and clean lines. They may be constructed of wood or metal, or covered in a shiny, stain-resistant laminate. The emphasis in modern cabinet styles is cleanliness. The distinct feature of modern cabinets is the seamless look and sharp lines. You can find stainless steel cabinets that give the appearance of an industrial kitchen or you can install maple cabinets to give the kitchen some warmth and atmosphere. There are many options to choose from in modern cabinet styles. Most modern kitchens will be partnered with industrial grade appliances for the professional cook. When you want an easy-to-use, easy-to-clean kitchen style, look no further than the modern cabinet section.
Regardless of the style or look that you are going for in your kitchen, there are hundreds of different styles out there (so make sure you do some research before settling for the wrong one). There are even more varieties of kitchen cabinets than are listed here, so you've got many options to consider. A well-designed kitchen is the centerpiece of a home, so make sure you take your time when choosing your kitchen cabinet set.
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Wholesale Kitchen Cabinet Hardware - The Importance of The Right Kitchen Cabinet Hardware
By Arturo Ronzon
You can find lots of great deals on wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware online, if you just take the time to do a little research. You don’t have to pay expensive retail prices to finish your kitchen precisely the way you want it, and your kitchen cabinet hardware will play a large role in accomplishing that. Can you imagine if you put modern wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware on your colonial style kitchen cabinets? What if you put antique draw pulls on your brand new art-deco kitchen cabinets? It wouldn’t look very good; that is why your kitchen cabinet hardware is an important component in giving your kitchen the look you want it to have.
Many times the wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware company you choose will offer you samples of the products you are interesting in buying. It is a cold, hard fact that while shopping online is easy and convenient things don’t always look the same once you get them home as they did in the picture. The reality is that samples cost money. Not just for the item, but shipping and handling as well. Before you decide on a company that you want to do business with, find out their policy regarding samples.
You will find many styles, colors, and designs when you begin to research wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware. When you were planning and designing your new kitchen, you had a particular look you where going for when you chose the design for your kitchen. Try to stick with that theme when you are shopping for wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware, or you may find you are more confused than ever. Usually you are given an option of choosing a type of hardware. For instance, if you want your kitchen to be modern, don’t look in categories that have antique glass drawer pulls or antique solid brass kitchen cabinet hardware.
The wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware is as important as the finish you chose for your cabinets. Don’t be hasty when you buy it and be sure to do some research online so you can get your wholesale kitchen cabinet hardware at the best price you can find.
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