Yesterday I was once again the lucky recipient of one of those handy home-improvement booklets that come in the mail and are full of services offered by many different random companies. Surely you have received one before, but have you ever noticed how unclear they are about what exactly they are offering? For example, “For only $9995.00 we will design your kitchen and install countertops, in oak or maple cabinetry up to 10 ft. We also install hardware, fixtures, sink and appliances and we give you a design of your kitchen for free.” It almost sounds worth looking into doesn’t it? But like I mentioned above it does make me ask… What EXACTLY does it include? [Read more…]
Lighting is an important aspect of kitchen design.
December 19, 2011 By
Lighting your new space so you can comfortably see and work, is a important aspect of kitchen design. Recessed down lights are currently the most desirable source of general lighting in kitchens and bathrooms for their architectural appeal and even light distribution. While one down light may be all that is needed in a shower stall, in pathways and other public areas, multiple down lights may be required to evenly light the area without shadows. [Read more…]
Finding the right contractor.
December 1, 2011 By
You can’t pick a contractor based only on price! The old adage is really true: “You get what you pay for.” This is especially true in the contracting business. If you want good contracting you should decide to deal with a contractor because of the overall value you receive, not because they are the lowest priced. Here’s why, Value = Quality + Service + Price. It is impossible for any company in any industry to offer the cheapest price, have the highest quality, and provide the best service all the same time. [Read more…]
Replace or Reface?
June 30, 2011 By
It doesn’t take many years before your kitchen can look a little the worse for wear. Colors change, cabinet styles change, and what suited you ten years ago may no longer please you. If you have a country kitchen, but crave a contemporary look, cabinet refacing can provide the look you want for much less than replacing the cabinets.
Refacing can range from simply repainting existing cabinets and drawer fronts and updating hardware to stripping cabinet doors and applying veneer or other decorative elements. Refacing can also include completely replacing cabinet doors in a new style using new materials.
If you’re so inclined you can reface your cabinets and drawers yourself, or you can hire a company that specializes in cabinet refacing to do the work for you. Different companies have slightly different definitions of cabinet refacing. Some build new drawers and doors for existing cabinets while some clean, install new veneers, and add new hardware. The key, if you choose to go with a professional, is to be clear about the range of services and what exactly they can offer you for a given price. [Read more…]
Contractors Are Not All the Same
June 29, 2011 By
Every contractor is different. No two contractors are really the same. Every contractor has different equipment and different employees who know how to do certain kinds of jobs well. Every company has a different number of employees, each with different abilities.
Contracting is art and craftsmanship combined. Most people who hire contractors don’t truly understand that despite all of the technological advances, contractors still use the same quality work habits as twenty years ago. It takes craftsmanship to turn out quality work. Kitchen remodeling contractors have to measure, design and perform complicated calculations before they can start a job. [Read more…]
