December 18, 2018 By

4 Kitchen Projects You Don’t Want To Put Off

4 kitchen projects you don't want to put off As you head into the new year, you might start wondering what kitchen projects to tackle. Here are a few that should definitely make your list.

1. Electrical Wiring

Nobody wants to spend money on things that you can’t see. Which is why electrical wiring often gets relegated to the bottom of the kitchen projects list. But electrical wiring is important to focus on. If you live in an older home, have an electrical inspector come in to test the wiring. You could have old wiring or even insufficient wiring. If the previous home owner did a lot of DIY projects, your electrical may not even be up to code.

The result of poor wiring could be as simple as the inconvenience of a blown fuse. Or it could be as dangerous as a fire. The problem is that you don’t know what is going on with your wiring until a problem emerges. Take preventative action and move it to the top of your kitchen projects list.

2. Upgrading Appliances

Kitchen appliances are expensive, and it can be financially difficult to replace them. But if you are running an inefficient refrigerator, you can actually save money with a new appliance. By investing in Energy Star appliances, you will start seeing the savings on your electrical bill immediately. Some utility companies also offer rebates if you upgrade appliances, so you could also save that way. The point is that while the initial price tag may seem high, a new refrigerator or stove might actually be in your budget.

3. Kitchen Countertops

Countertops should be at the top of any kitchen projects list. They will be one of your major purchases, but the impact that they have will make it worth it. In fact, you could get away by cutting a few corners on other projects if your countertops make a big enough splash. There are many types of countertops to choose from, so having an expert opinion is a good idea. A quick consult with a professional will give you a feel for what will work with your existing décor and will open your eyes to many new and exciting types of designs.

4. Lighting

Lighting can seem like a small matter, but it can actually make a big difference in your home. Poor lighting can make even the best kitchens seem dim and dingy. It can also lead to inadequate light over workspaces, making your kitchen less efficient. Before you make your first purchase, though, take a few days to track and map out the paths you make in a kitchen. Then, be sure to plan lighting that will work for your usage. Mix up one or two focal lights with smaller track lighting and accent lighting. If you are replacing a light over the kitchen table, look for a dimmable light to help alter the mood.If you are on a budget but want to start on your kitchen projects, look for lighting to give you a quick, affordable boost.

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November 18, 2018 By

4 Reasons It’s Always A Good Idea To Invest In A Kitchen

4 reasons its always a good idea to invest in a kitchenNot many people have the wherewithal to invest in a complete home renovation. It therefore ends up being the budget that determines just what part of the house gets updated. If you’re not sure if investing in a kitchen is a good idea, here are four reasons why it’s always a good idea to invest in a kitchen.

Selling Value

An updated, modern kitchen will go a long way in selling value, if you choose to move. But don’t wait until you decide to move to invest in a kitchen. After all, you’ll want to enjoy the hard work that you’ve put into it. Even kitchens that are five years old still have a large selling value. When remodelling, try to choose a more neutral, classic choice. This way anyone who looks at your house can envision themselves in it. If you need to add your personality to your kitchen remodel, choose bright walls. Putting on a new coat of paint is easy if you plan on selling in the future.

Energy Savings

There are a lot of appliances in a kitchen, and that means ample opportunity for sky-high utility bills. Investing in new appliances means that you will save when it comes to electrical and even gas bills. Look for Energy Star appliances that have been manufactured to smartly use electricity. Also look for different settings. A dishwasher, for example, that can run quick or half loads means that you won’t have to use as much water to get a small number of dishes clean. Many local utility companies will also offer rebate programs, so check out their websites to see if you can save even more money.

Wear and Tear

The kitchen is the most-used room in a house and can quickly take a bit of a beating. While bedrooms and even the living room usually just need a fresh coat of pain, the kitchen will need a complete overhaul in its lifetime. Knicks in the countertop, broken cabinet hinges, dings in the tile: all are common in a kitchen. It’s definitely not practical to remodel your kitchen every two or three years but start planning on when it makes the most sense. If you have small children, wait until they are in school. This way they’ll not only be out of the house more when the repairs are happening, but they will hopefully be out of the complete mess stage of toddlerhood.

Positive Energy

The final reason why investing in a kitchen is always a good idea is really quite simple. You use your kitchen a lot and want to enjoy it. A kitchen should inspire you and make you want to bring people together. If it doesn’t, start envisioning a new kitchen’s potential so that you can add a bit of joy to the home.

 

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October 18, 2018 By

5 Reasons a Shower Surround is the Way to Go

5 reasons a shower surround is the way to goRemodelling a bathroom is a fun, creative experience, but often the number of choices becomes overwhelming. The focal point is often the shower, as this can be a very large piece in the bathroom. How you design your shower is an important part of the creative puzzle. One design element that is picking up steam is the shower surround. Easy to install, customizable, and pleasant to look at, shower surrounds are the way to go.

Less expensive

Shower surrounds are less expensive than tiling a shower. Most people have a finite budget when it comes to a bathroom remodel, so price is a very important issue. Shower surrounds can help keep your budget in check. Not only will they fit most people’s budget, but because they still look nice, you can use the money that you saved on other elements of the bathroom.

Versatility

No matter the size of your shower, there is a shower surround that will fit the space. There are pre-fab surrounds and there are also custom-made surrounds. So if you have a unique space then no worries as there will be a way for a customized shower surround to fit.

Easy to clean

Shower surrounds are usually just one or two pieces and even these pieces will be expertly sealed together. So, cleaning becomes a lot easier. You can simply spray and wipe down the interior of the shower. Tiles are easy to clean, but the grout in between them is a lot harder. Grout can quickly become discolored and often needs to be cleaned with a special brush.

The silicone seal between tile and a bathtub is also the perfect place for mold to grow. This seal needs to be expertly cleaned. If not, it often needs to be dug up and replaced to keep it looking fresh.

Modern designs

Shower surrounds come in many different varieties, so no matter what your design plans are, there is an option for you. There are flat designs but there are also designs with built-in shelves. Some even have benches built in. Shower surrounds have kept up with modern designs and no longer look out of place in new bathrooms.

No leaks

Leaks in any bathroom are always a concern, no matter the type of material that is used. When you have a shower surround expertly installed, you can be assured that there will be no leaks. Instead the plumber will make sure that the pipes behind the wall are tightly sealed. Only after this is determined will the shower surround be installed.

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September 18, 2018 By

5 Different Types of Kitchen Countertops

5 different types of kitchen countertopsKitchen countertops are often the focal point of any kitchen. Great care needs to be taken when deciding what will look the best in this busy room. Here are five different types of kitchen countertops and what to expect from them.

Stainless Steel

If you are an avid cook, or just a germaphobe, then stainless steel countertops are an innovative way to stylize your kitchen. While they are most often found in restaurants and industrial kitchens, stainless steel is slowly creeping its way into residential kitchens.

The positive side of stainless steel is that it is extremely easy to clean. It is also hardy and indestructible and will last a long time. However, stainless steel can scratch and dent, so the aesthetics may not be what you want over a long time. They are also quite expensive so it’s important to know you want them in your home for a long period of time in order to get your money’s worth.

Butcher Block

Butcherblock, made of different types of wood, gives a nice, warm, and inviting look to a kitchen. Options include bamboo which is sustainable, and maple, which is hardy. There are many different types of designs you can make with butcher block countertops, depending on the type of wood you use and the placement of the grain.
The biggest issue with butcher block countertops is that they require a fair bit of upkeep. To keep them sanitary, they will need to be sealed which has to be reapplied. They also get their fair share of scratches and stains.

Tile

One of the lesser used types of countertops is tile, but because of this, when you see it, it really packs a visual punch. Tile countertops can be all manner of style and material.

With tile countertops, its important to keep the grout intact and clean. Grout can also become discolored over time, so be sure to clean it with water and vinegar. If a tile piece becomes cracked or lose, it is relatively easy to fix, as long as there are extra tiles around.

Natural Stone

Natural stone is considered as on of the more premium types if countertops. Stone types such as granite and quartz need very little upkeep and add a dazzling shine to your kitchen. Marble can also be used, and while its natural design is a great focal point, it is more likely to crack or chip.

If you have the budget for a complete kitchen reno, natural stone is usually where that money ends up in.

Solid Surface

If you want the look of a high-end natural stone countertop, but don’t want to invest in the expensive materials, then a nice alternative is a solid surface countertop. These products are man-made to look like their natural kitchen countertops. They can be found in a variety of styles and colors to suit all kitchen décor. Solid surface countertops are easy to clean and will last for a long time.

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August 18, 2018 By

Top 5 Kitchen Color Trends

top 5 kitchen color trends

When selecting a color palette for your new kitchen, it all comes down to personal taste. There are many ways to create a welcoming environment and color is just one of them. Here are the top 5 kitchen color trends this year and ideas on how to achieve the look you want in your kitchen.

1. Bold Colors

Go big or go home with color. Whether it’s neon green, apple red, or deep blue, one of the top kitchen color trends includes pops of color. The nice thing about this trend is you get to decide just how much color is included in your kitchen. And, you can start high or low. Color on the ceiling is certainly a bold move, but one that can separate your kitchen from others. If you’re not sure about being that daring, opt for accent walls, kitchen cabinets, or even a bit of color in your tile.

2. Earth Tones

If you want color but are nervous about making too bold of a statement, then opt for earth tones. Natural browns and tans help create a warm environment in a kitchen. This color choice is easiest seen in kitchen cabinets. Choose natural woods and instead of painting them, stain them. This way the wood grains are accented and become the focal point of the whole kitchen.

3. Gray Tones

While beige once reigned supreme, it has now been taken over by grey. There are many shades of grey, from light off-white to deep storms, so choosing gray again comes down to taste. This neutral pairs well with other bold colors and can help make your kitchen seem open. Gray is one of the kitchen color trends that will stick around for a while.

4. All White

An all white kitchen remains one of the most classic of kitchen color trends. All white signifies space, cleanliness, and openness. At the same time, it also creates a welcome feel to the kitchen. The really nice thing about an all white kitchen is that you can easily add pops of color if you want to change the décor around. This means that as your tastes evolve, you can add different lighting fixtures or accessories and change your kitchen without having to invest in a large renovation.

5. Metallic Accents

Metallic accents is one of the hottest kitchen color trends right now. While chrome and stainless steel have always been kitchen favorites, new metallic choices are also emerging. Copper is big and can be seen in copper mugs and copper pots and pans. Gold is also a popular trend and can be seen in many kitchen accessories. Metallic accents bring a lot style wise, so use them carefully. They are best used in small amounts to as to not overwhelm the existing décor.

 

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July 18, 2018 By

How To Keep A Kitchen Island Functional

how to keep a kitchen island functionalThe kitchen island is often the focal point of a room, and it’s important that it not only looks good, but has a purpose. Here are some tips on how to keep a kitchen island functional.

Storage

The best way to keep a kitchen island functional is to use it for storage. Whether it is open shelves or hidden shelves, be sure to have a kitchen island that works for you, not against you.

Large, stationary kitchen islands often have shelves behind cupboard doors. This is great except, depending on the size of the island, these shelves can actually be quite deep and impractical. If you find this is the case, don’t be afraid of creating extra doors on the other side. This way you can access the shelves from both side and keep everything better organized.

If your kitchen island has open shelves, be sure to invest in stylish bins and baskets to keep everything organized. Wire baskets will fit in a rustic-themes kitchen. Stainless steel bins adhere to a modern look. This is an easy way to add décor and add to your theme.

Whatever the design, the best way to jeep a kitchen island functional is organize is so that it works for you. Keep utensils that you use every day close at hand. Put larger, less used items, farther back. Function is the key to organization.

Portability

A Kitchen island is often stationary, but if you have the opportunity to create a movable kitchen island, be sure to take it. Portability gives you the freedom to move your kitchen island according to your needs. If you are short on counter space, then an island can quickly maneuver to be extra prep space. It can also be positioned as a place for appetizers so guests can nibble and watch you in action.

If there are extra bodies in the kitchen than normal, then moving the kitchen island out of the activity zone may actually be the best bet. Move it to the side or out of the room completely so that nobody accidently stubs their toes.

Kitchen islands that are portable can also serve double duty as a table. You can move it into an open area, add some bar stools, and a cozy table for two is set.

De-Clutter

The biggest downside to a kitchen island is that they can quickly become a dumping ground for all sorts of odd and ends. There are two approaches to combat this.

The first is to have a clean surface rule. Under no circumstance is there to be anything on the kitchen island except meal prep. Be sure, then, to have adequate homes for all the junk mail, keys, and miscellaneous that often finds its way to the surface.

The other solution to keep your kitchen island functional is to acknowledge that it will always be a place for clutter. Then, create an organizing system. Have small baskets with labels ready. Put out a mail slot to keep flyers upright and accessible. And be sure to go through everything at least once a week to weed out expired coupons and children’s permission slips.

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June 18, 2018 By

4 Kitchen Reno Mistakes To Avoid

4 ktichen reno mistakes to avoid

Before you dive into your next project, think about the many kitchen reno mistakes to avoid. Read on to help you plan your dream kitchen.

Budget

Not sticking to your budget is one of the biggest reno mistakes to avoid. It’s so easy to try to justify the next purchase because it looks so nice. Planning a budget is more than just picking random numbers out of the air. It requires a lot of research and a bit of fluidity.

When starting a budget, think about how much you can reasonably spend. Important factors to consider are if you will be selling the house in the near future or now. If you plan on moving, then it may be wise to scale back; after all, even if it looks nice, there’s no guarantee that the new buyers will even want to keep the new design. If you will be staying in the house for a long time, then try to spend the top of your budget so that you can get the most enjoyment out of it.

Once you have a total budget, minus 10% from this number. That 10% will be your contingency fund; once you start tearing down walls, there may be a lot of unforeseen costs. With this new number, start dividing it into categories: appliances, paint, accessories. Don’t forget costs for items you can’t see, like plumbing and electrics.

Keep going back to your budget as your kitchen reno progresses. If you always know your numbers, then one of the kitchen reno mistakes you can avoid is going over budget.

Workflow

There are three main parts of the kitchen that create a triangle workflow: the sink, the stove, and the refrigerator. Make sure that there is a clear path between these elements. Practice going between the three areas and envision yourself prepping, cooking, and cleaning. If you find that you have to walk around the island to reach the refrigerator, then you may need to rethink the design. This kitchen reno mistake needs to be thought of early in the planning stage. It’s a lot harder to move a sink after a completed kitchen reno than before.

Choose appliances first

It can be easy to overlook appliances and go straight for tile, countertops, and cabinets. But appliances should really be the first step in a kitchen reno. Refrigerators come in many different depths and widths. Stoves, too, can vary in width. Instead of having a gap between the stove and the countertop, place the appliance first so that the countertop can be measured to fit exactly.

It’s also a good idea to find out how noisy your dishwasher will be. It’s nice to be able to turn on the dishwasher immediately after dinner. But, if the living area or TV area are right next to it, then it can easily disrupt your evening plans.

Big picture

Finally, an important kitchen reno mistake to avoid is forgetting about the big picture. Don’t pick out individual accents or appliances until you compare them to the entire scheme. This way everything will flow together and be harmonious.

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May 19, 2018 By

How To Paint Kitchen Cabinets

how to paint kitchen cabinets

Kitchens are a big investment. From floors to countertops to cabinets, each piece can cost a lot both in terms of time and money. Often when choosing to remodel a kitchen, at least one element is sacrificed. If you’ve decided on new countertops but still want to do something with your cabinets, painting them is a good idea. It takes a lot of time and effort, but if done correctly, the results can be well worth it.

Preparation

First of all, pick a time that you will need your kitchen the least amount. If you have kids, wait until they are in summer camp or can spend some time with their grandparents. Summer is a good time as it means you can use your BBQ instead of the stove. No matter when you decide to paint your kitchen cabinets, be aware that you will want people to spend as little time in the kitchen as possible.

The first step to paint kitchen cabinets is to remove them. Detach any hardware and be sure to label everything. Some cabinets may look like similar sizes, but can actually be off by a bit. Save time at the end by labelling which cabinet door goes where.

Next, sand down the doors using-grit paper. As you go along, if you see any holes or scratches, use wood filler to even the surface. After the filler has dried, be sure to sand any remnants down.

Painting

First, prime the wood. This ensures that everything is sealed and there is a nice, even color to begin with. Make sure the primer is completely dry. It can be tempting to rush but if the paint is still a bit tacky, then it can ruin the next coat of paint.

When it comes to actually painting kitchen cabinets, you have two options. You can use a brush or you can use a paint sprayer. What you choose will depend on your comfortability and your space. If you do not have a garage or yard with which to use a sprayer, then a brush will have to suffice.

If you can, however, a paint sprayer will provide a more even texture to the cabinets. It is best to practice with it on a some wood, just to get a hang of the sprayer. The cabinet boxes and any trim should be painted with a brush.

Installation

Once everything is dry, it is time to reassemble the kitchen cabinets. You can definitely use your existing hardware and hinges, but now would be the perfect time to replace anything that looks dingy. Hardware can be relatively inexpensive but makes a big difference in a room. There are also great hinges that close lightly which can alleviate hard knocks and loud noises.

Make sure you take before and after pictures so that everyone can admire your DIY prowess!

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April 19, 2018 By

3 Different Stove Types To Choose From

3 different stove types to choose from

A stove is an important part of any kitchen which means that it should be properly researched before deciding what will work best for you. There are many times of stoves but the most popular are electric, gas, and induction.

1. Electric Stove Types

Electric stove types are the standard appliance, especially with any new houses. Within this category are either coil burners or glass-covered burners. Most new electric stoves are usually housed under a glass surface.

Electric stoves are the industry standard mainly because they are energy efficient. Electricity is usually less expensive than gas so you will save money both on the appliance and your utility bill.

The biggest negative with electric stoves it can be difficult to find the right temperature for your cooking. They can take a long time to reach a high heat and an even longer time cooling down to a low heat. This can result in burned cooking quite easily if the stove is not attended to. It often takes a person a lot of practice to find the best ways to cook on an electric stove for consistent results.

2. Gas Stove Types

Loved by professional and hobby chefs alike, gas stoves were once considered one of the best stove types. The reason for this is that they offer near instantaneous heat change. Instead of waiting for an electric stove to change to a new temperature, gas stoves change as soon as you turn down the flame.

While older models required you to light the flame yourself, which was a deterrent to some, newer models have a button which lights the flame for you. All this results in a much more user-friendly device.

One downfall to gas stoves is that they can be harder to clean and need a bit more scrubbing power. Thankfully, newer models have better materials and there are more powerful cleaning agents suited specifically for gas stoves.

3. Induction Stove Types

Induction stove types are becoming more popular thanks to their innovative technology. In fact, they can almost be seen as a hybrid between electric stoves and gas stoves. Induction stoves use electricity but because of their technology, finding the right temperature is similar to the ease that gas offers.

Induction stoves use magnetic technology to work. Under the cooking surface are a series of electromagnets which react to the pots and pans places on top of them. The resistance that is created results in the heat used for cooking. As a bonus, the cooking surface remains cool which is especially great if you have children with curious hands.

There are two drawbacks to induction stoves. The first is that you need specialized pots and pans. Most cookware is labeled as to what stove type it will work on, so it is easy to purchase. This does mean, though, that it can be an added expense.

Expense is the other drawback to induction stoves. Because this is newer technology, most inductions stoves are more expensive than electric or even gas. They are a big investment. Thankfully, as induction stoves become more prevalent, the price is beginning to decrease.

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March 18, 2018 By

How To Declutter Your Kitchen

how to declutter your kitchen

The kitchen is one of the most important rooms in a home. It brings people together and creates memories. When you’re in your kitchen you want to feel relaxed and inspired. Read on to discover how to declutter your kitchen and make it live up to its full potential.

Make a Plan

Before you start to declutter your kitchen, make a plan. Start a list of the different zones in your kitchen. These could include the pantry, under the sink, pots and pans, glassware, etc. Then, decide where you want to start.

Timing is an important factor. When organizing your pantry, do so before a big grocery shop so that you won’t have extra food items to go through. This also allows you to know exactly what needs to be replenished. Under the sink usually involves chemicals, so if you have young children, this task is best done when they are not at home, or are in bed.

Make Piles

Take everything from a specific zone and put it in a different place, like the table. This allows you to start fresh and really see what you have. It’s also a great opportunity to clean the area before you put anything back.

Make piles as you go through your items: keep, donate, garbage. Really think about if you need the item. If it’s a seasonal item, like a Christmas platter, decide if it should be kept in the kitchen or if there is a different storage area it can live in for the rest of the year.

Items like coffee mugs can accumulate quickly. Think about how many people in the house actually use them, and try to pair them down. Often there will be a set of coffee mugs that came with the dishes and more unique ones that may have been gifts. Think about which ones you use. There’s no point keeping coffee mugs just because they match the plates.

If you’re really not sure if you need an item or not, put a little tag on it. If you find that the item isn’t used in the upcoming months, be sure to get rid of it.

Don’t buy too many organizers

It can be a knee-jerk reaction when you start to declutter your kitchen to run out and buy nice-looking organizers. But try to be patient. Wait until you have gone through everything before buying baskets and bins. This will ensure that you buy the right amount. Also, try to keep the same style so that everything looks unified.

If you find that down the road you feel like you need to buy more organizers for your items, don’t. Instead of buying more baskets to keep items in, try to pare down the amount of items in the first place.

Keep to a Theme

Kitchens are not overly large spaces, so it’s important to keep to one theme. A unified look will bring the room together and keep it looking simple and clean. All stainless steel appliances show a modern look. Choose either chrome or brass fixtures, not both. Simplicity doesn’t mean boring; it means quality.

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