The kitchen is the heart of the home, and as such often takes up a large portion of renovation budgets. However, what people may not expect is that cabinetry is one of the most significant contributors to that cost. Custom cabinetry can be upward of tens of thousands, depending on the quantity and materials used. Alternatively, stock cabinets cost only a fraction of that. While price makes the decision seem obvious, there are pros and cons to both options.

Stock Cabinets

Stock cabinets are an affordable choice. The reason they are cost-effective is due to the manufacturing process. Stock is also considered prefabricated, meaning that these cabinets are not made to a specific kitchen but rather to a mass-produced plan. This type of cabinet making is hugely cost-effective because there is less waste and construction is in a controlled environment, meaning that the savings are passed onto you, the consumer.

Also, because these cabinets are mass-produced, you can purchase most options directly without any wait time. This means you can demo your kitchen one day and pick up your cabinets the next, allowing for a fast and streamlined remodel.

However, the obvious downside to prefab cabinets is the lack of customization and material options. Custom cabinets are often better quality and fit than stock cabinets found at your local big box chain.

Custom Cabinets

Custom cabinets are expensive. However, this expense can be mitigated by making well-thought-out decisions about your budget. For instance, don’t make your entire kitchen from hard maple or oak when another wood species will look similar or perform just as well. Also, don’t have a whole cabinetry wall if it is unnecessary.

Custom means that everything is made to order, and that equates to a higher price and a longer timeline. The less material that is required, the less expensive and faster the project will be. However, with that higher price tag comes better quality, beauty and customization.

The kitchen is the heart of the home, but it does not have to break the bank. Whichever cabinet option you choose, talk to a designer and builder to find the right balance between beauty and cost.

The kitchen is the center point of most homes. But the kitchen is more than a place to cook food and clean dishes. Customize the look and feel of your kitchen with kitchen fixtures. Often these inexpensive items can give your kitchen an update and a little personality.

Lighting

Kitchen lighting doesn’t merely allow you to see what you are doing. Overhead fixtures dictate the amount of light in the space. For specific tasks, under cabinet lighting or lights above an island can enhance the light in certain areas. Take your lighting to decorative levels with pendant lights and wall sconces. Fluorescent, recessed and track lighting a great for functional lights. Use a variety of lighting to enhance the space or alter the mood depending on which lights are on.

Faucets

Faucets are common kitchen fixtures that can change the look of your space. The sink is a commonly used feature in the kitchen and the faucet is the focal point. Short faucets, long swan-like faucets and automated faucets are all options to make the most of your sink. Add a pull-out sprayer or a pot filler for increased functionality. Finishes come in a variety of looks such as brass, copper, oil-rubbed bronze, polished or brushed chrome and nickel. You can even customize the look of the faucet handles.

Hardware

Cabinets draw the eye as they take up the majority of space in the kitchen. Regardless of the type of cabinets you have, you can accessorize them with decorative cabinet hardware. Choose between handles or knobs in a variety of materials, colors, shapes and sizes. Match them to your faucet or showcase more of your eclectic style. Mix and match or make them all the same, the options are endless.

Kitchen fixtures give your kitchen a distinct personality that is all your own. These simple things can upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen and increase the functionality of the space.

If your kitchen has an outdated or worn-down look, it’s time to remedy the problem with kitchen remodeling. Perhaps the dilemma holding you back is an impending move. Here are five suggestions for kitchen upgrades that are more cost-effective than a full remodel. These tips are sure to help you see and appreciate your space in a new light and may just push a future potential buyer to make an offer.

Update Hardware

One of the least expensive options for quickly updating a room is replacing or adding new hardware to your cabinetry. Whether your current hardware is overly worn or just outdated, there is a plethora of options on the market at nearly any price range.

Backsplash Upgrade

The sky’s the limit when it comes to design possibilities for your kitchen walls. A kitchen remodeling professional can provide suggestions to result in a breathtaking, fresh look without investing in a complete room re-do.

Give Cabinetry a Facelift

New kitchen cabinets can be incredibly expensive. If old cabinetry is keeping your kitchen from shining, there are more affordable options for making them look their best. Having cabinets refaced allows for a fresh look without incurring the cost of a full replacement.  

Replace Your Countertops

If you’re only making one upgrade to your kitchen, choosing to replace your countertops can have a big impact. With a wide range of materials and price ranges, there’s a lot of room for making your kitchen look unique. Choose higher-end stone such as marble or granite, or choose a very modern material, like butcher block.

Choose New Flooring

Having your contractor install new flooring in your kitchen is a great way to breathe new life into the space. Consider beautiful tile for an eye-catching look that will endure for years.

There’s no reason why you should deny yourself a beautiful kitchen before you move. Especially when you keep in mind that even the simplest of kitchen remodeling projects could result in more interest and a quick sale after listing. Explore your options with a professional contractor for an inspired kitchen you can be proud of.

There are multiple factors to keep in mind when upgrading your bathroom. One of the most impactful decisions you’ll make is in regards to your bathroom countertops. Explore these five material options before your contractor begins work to help you pinpoint the best fit for your space and needs.

Solid Surface

Solid surface materials are engineered to resemble natural stone. The structure allows for it to be shaped, so it’s possible to achieve the clean-lined appearance of an integrated sink basin. Solid surfaces are easy to care for and less expensive than natural stone, however, if your goal is a luxury appearance, the engineered material has a more artificial-looking quality.

Natural Stone

Natural stone is a luxury, premium choice for bathroom countertops. Choosing stone provides for a truly one-of-a-kind, unique look as no two slabs of the building material look exactly the same. Natural stone does require more upkeep than some other options, as it will need to be periodically resealed.

Laminate

If you haven’t checked out modern laminate, don’t write it off. The material has improved throughout the years and you’ll find laminate available in a wide array of textures and colors. It doesn’t convey the same sense of glam or luxury as other choices, but the price for laminate countertops is hard to beat.

Tile

Opting for countertops constructed of porcelain or ceramic tile allows for a unique design and look. Depending on the type of tiles chosen, this can be a budget-friendly choice. Drawbacks include that they can easily crack and cleaning all of the grout can be hard work.

Cement

Cement is a current trend for countertops. The material provides a modern look that sets your space apart from other bathrooms. Countertops made from cement are strong and durable and should be installed by a professional contractor with ample experience in working with the material.

The options are nearly endless when it comes to designing your dream space. Keep in mind how often the bathroom is used, your budget and the maintenance required before making your final decision. Your remodeling professional can help you choose the bathroom countertops that you’ll love for years to come.

There are many decisions to make when it comes to your kitchen remodeling project, and choosing your new countertops is an important one. There are many things to consider before your contractor installs your new counters, such as your budget, the look you want to achieve and the work you’re willing to put into maintenance. Here are four countertop materials to consider along with the major pros and cons to each.

Natural Stone

The most popular type of natural stone used for countertops continues to be granite, which is available in a wide range of colors. It’s recommended that daily cleanups are handled with a stone cleaner rather than a multi-purpose one. While widespread use and availability have lowered the price of natural stone, this choice will often still be on the pricier end of the options listed here.

Solid Surface

Engineered solid surfaces are an excellent kitchen remodeling choice for their durability. They stand up well to stains and scratches and are repairable in most instances. With an endless variety of colors and designs, you’ll have no trouble finding one that vibes well with your kitchen look. Little maintenance is required for the upkeep of solid surfaces, and pricing can be similar to that of granite.

Wood

Butcher block countertops allow for dicing and chopping right on the material’s surface, and there’s no need to worry about damage from hot pots and pans. Wood is a softer material, so scratches and other marks are to be expected. That well-loved and worn look can certainly add charm to a kitchen, but if you prefer a cleaner look, wood may not be the best choice for you.

Laminate

If it’s been a while since you’ve taken a look at laminate countertops, you may be pleasantly surprised by your options. One of the biggest pluses of laminate is the prices are economical, however, they cannot handle high heat and can suffer damage from hot cookware.

As you can see, there are a number of countertop options available to transform your kitchen. Consult with your kitchen remodeling professional for help in making the best surface decision to fit both your space and needs.

Unless your home was constructed to your specifications, you’re probably dealing with a standard kitchen layout chosen by the original builders. Depending on how that space is constructed, it may not fit your family’s lifestyle. Most kitchens are built from basic templates that allow the homeowner to upgrade and customize small things within the standard design. If that is the case, you could end up needing more space, functionality and conveniences than your stock kitchen provides. Fortunately, a custom kitchen design can solve these problems and give you the features you need with a look that’s truly your own.

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If you are trying to increase the value of your home, bathroom remodeling is a great place to start. Potential homeowners seem to recognize the value of a new bathroom and after they look at several homes, you want your home to be memorable. So what should you do to update your bathroom?

 

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