Kitchen: Kitchen Remodeling tips
Kitchen Remodeling Tips
For many people the thought of kitchen remodeling may seem like overwhelming task , full of difficulties, problems and huge expenses. Doesn’t have to be that way. Actually it can be interesting challenge and fun. Lets simplify the whole process. Doesn’t matter how extensive your remodeling project will be, you will have to deal with few basic elements which modern kitchens are build from.
● Kitchen cabinets are installed along one or more walls used to store food and kitchen ware. They are the key component to form kitchen layout and accommodate appliances. Usually are permanently attached to the walls and even if they may look like furniture , they will stay with the house. Not every kitchen need new cabinets. For the fraction of the cost the old cabinets can be updated by repainting, refinishing or refacing giving the whole kitchen brand new, fresh look.
● Countertop is installed on top of base cabinets. It can be made from different materials preferably moist and heat resistant, with cutouts for sink, cook top or other top mounted appliances.
● Backslash is usually made of the same material as countertop. It can be narrow 6” toll or full height to cover part of the wall between countertop and wall cabinets. Main reason for backsplash is to prevent liquids to spill behind cabinets, but also can be important decoration element
● Kitchen appliances. Refrigerator, stove with oven, range hood, dishwasher and microwave are considered as standard kitchen equipment. Assuming your kitchen is large enough, you may decide to install additional appliances like freezer, vine cooler, trash compactor, double oven just to make the life little easier. All those appliances come in variety of finishes and beside serving the purpose can play important role as décor element. They can be replaced at any time without any cabinetry adjustments, provided that new appliances got the same dimensions.
● Plumbing fixtures. Two plumbing fixtures : kitchen sink and faucet are exposed at all time so choosing the right style and finish is important from designer point of view. Other equipment like water purification system or garbage disposal are installed inside sink base cabinet. Durability and low maintenance should be considered.
● Light fixtures. Recessed ceiling lights, ceiling fans, low voltage counter lights mounted under wall cabinets with dedicated switches that’s only examples of many available options.
● Flooring. Kitchen floor is considered as high traffic area and should be covered with tough and easy to clean material. Floor tiles ( ceramic, natural stone ) and sheet vinyl are most popular choice.
● Finish carpentry. Window and door casing, crown moldings, baseboards can make huge difference on overall appearance.
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