Kitchen Remodeling – Finishing Materials

Remodeling the kitchen does not have to be a budget busting project if updates are done slowly with focus on one area at a time. Simple changes can make a huge difference, like changing light fixtures to create dramatic effect of space, or a fresh coat of paint. If one area of the kitchen is focused each week, a brand new kitchen can be had in less than three months. Here are a few suggestions for some of the major areas of the kitchen that you can change:

Paint:

Painting is the easy and inexpensive way to change the look of your kitchen. Dated wood cabinets can be painted white to make a small kitchen look larger, while walls or cabinets that are in poor condition can be given a fresh lease in life with paint or faux finish to hide the blemishes. Paint is not permanent and can be changed.

Cabinets: 

When deciding on cabinets for your kitchen, you have options of either European style frameless or cabinets with frame. You can also specify sizes or style with custom made cabinets, or just buy them from a manufacturer from stock. Your choice of cabinet depends highly on the final look you have already in mind when planning your kitchen remodeling.

Countertops: 

From DIY and less expensive laminate tops and tiles, to the very durable, yet very expensive materials like solid surface or granite, though the later choices may not be something you can do on your own and may required professional help when installing them.

Flooring:

The wrong kitchen floor can make a kitchen look dirtier or outdated. However, replacing it doesn’t have to be an expensive or time-consuming project. Most kitchens have square designs, which make them easy to tile. Vinyl sheets are gaining popularity as it is quicker and easier to install than tile. Vinyl now comes in self-adhesive tiles that can cost less than a dollar per square foot. It comes in a wide range of patterns and styles. Ceramic tile has always been popular in pricier kitchens, and wood floors are gaining popularity in both moderate and high end kitchens.

 

Sinks & Fixtures:

Kitchen sinks are made of materials such as solid surface, cast iron, stainless steel and plastic. Think about how much time you spend standing in front of the sink, and then think about the condition of your sink. You might want to consider installing an undermount sink. Undermount sinks sit beneath the counter, which makes wiping the counter much easier. You might also consider installing a porcelain or cast iron sink if you have grown tired of the stainless steel look. Mounting styles are either top-mount or undermount with a combination of sizes and features: single-bowl, double-bowl, deep or shallow. Faucets offer different finishes: polished brass or nickel, brushed nickel, chrome, stainless steel. Other options and price ranges include pull-out sprayers, single-levers, double-handled. 

If you can\’t afford to replace the whole sink, consider replacing the faucet. With so many different shapes, sizes and finishes of faucets, it can be hard to decide which one will work best. A faucet with a high arch works best if you need to fill large pots or buckets. 

Appliances: 

Choose between built-in or free-standing styles, side-by-side refrigerators or units with top or bottom mounted freezers, traditional gas or electric issue, halogen or smooth-top cooktops, double and/or convection ovens, trash compactors, microwaves, range hoods and down-draft vents, or even deciding to covering appliances behind panels should you choose not (or can’t afford) to replace your refrigerator or dishwasher. Appliance panels and trim kits are inexpensive and come in over 200 different colors and designs including stainless steel, sports motif, and chalkboard. This is the perfect answer for mismatching appliances. 

Light Features:

Replacing outdated light features not only gets rid of an eyesore, but also has the advantage of adding more light. The right lighting (and angle) can also make your kitchen look larger, or highlight a certain section that you want to draw attention to. Consider adding track lighting. They come in a variety of widths, are prewired, and are easy to install. Many feature halogen spotlights that can be pointed at key areas of your kitchen like the stove or workstation. 

Backsplashes: 

Backsplash are often unused and ignored. Change this trend by making it colorful or practical. You can add color by tiling it or painting it. Alternatively, you could purchase – or even make – small decorative prints to hang there. If you need more space or like things close at hand, make your backsplash more practical by adding specially designed railings. The railings come with shelves, hooks and other types of holders that can hold frequently used items such as utensils, spices and even cookbooks. 

Recommended reading :

The Kitchen Consultant : a common-sense guide to kitchen remodeling by Herrick Kimball.

ISBN-10: 1561582476 / ISBN-13: 978-1561582471