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The kitchen in many older houses has an undersized window, and replacing it with a larger one is one way to visually broaden the space. Enlarging a window opening isn't a difficult framing project, but it usually involves changing the size of the header, which supports the weight of the wall above the window. You can save money in this regard by nailing together two lengths of two-by-four lumber to make a 4-inch header. It's best to cut any exterior siding after doing the framing to make sure the hole is exactly the right size.
An old or outdated kitchen can quickly date and bring down your entire home. A new, complete kitchen remodel may cost as much as $20,000 or more if you let the pros do it, but you can get an updated and more modern kitchen for $1,000 or less by following a few tricks and tackling the work yourself. Utilize paint, tile and a few basic carpentry skills to transform the look of your kitchen on a budget.
A galley kitchen is a very user-friendly space for a cook, but a bar area will make it more user-friendly for family members and guests. Figuring out where to place a bar will require going over options to see what works. Every family functions differently in terms of cooking, dining and entertaining. By envisioning how to install a bar and stools in various designs, you can make an excellent choice.
Tray and other dimensional ceilings can be stunning architectural design elements in any room, and they elevate the kitchen to more than just the workhorse of the house. But where there's a dimensional ceiling, there are usually soffits -- and soffits cry out for lighting. There are several options available to you, depending upon where the soffit is in the room and what type of lighting you need.
Decorative and functional posts appear in both newer homes and older construction. The architect uses posts as decorative elements that give the kitchen a more modern feel. Depending on the design of your home, the posts may have a functional purpose as load-bearing supports. Use remodeling ideas that give the kitchen posts a new look without removing them from the room.
Remodeling a kitchen can be viewed either as an exciting opportunity to create the cooking space of your dreams or a daunting task, and knowing where to start can sometimes be a challenge. There are several places you can look to for inspiration in choosing what color schemes, styles and decor themes you may want to incorporate into your remodeled kitchen.
When you want to give your old, tired kitchen a facelift but don't have the time, energy or cash for a complete remodel, there are several things you can do to change the appearance of this instrumental room. Rather than ripping out cabinets and tearing down walls, you can make several small cosmetic improvements that will give the illusion of a total kitchen redo and revitalize the place where you prepare your family's meals.
Many older homes were remodeled in the 1970s as kitchen construction materials such as laminated cabinets and Formica countertops became available in a wider range of colors. Unfortunately, these materials and colors don't fit modern kitchen styles. However, a few inexpensive changes can turn an unattractive retro kitchen into a more palatable place to cook.
Remodeling a bathroom is a common home improvement project. Common remodeling techniques include updating shower head fixtures, replacing toilets and changing electrical and plumbing work. Although there are contractors who specialize in bathroom remodeling, homeowners can do some work with basic supplies. Each remodeling project is different, but most require specific supplies to ensure the project is finished on time and looks good.
Craftsman, Mission Style, Prairie Style and Bungalow Style are all terms that define similar architectural and decorating motifs that have their roots in the Arts and Crafts movement. As the highly embellished Victoria Era faded out and the desire for mass-produced furnishings declined, a return to simpler and more functional design became popular. Depending on your geographical location, a derivative of the Arts and Crafts style was given a name and description. Frank Lloyd Wright popularized the Prairie Style in the mid-western states, Mission style developed in the west and bungalow style homes were being built throughout America. Clean lines,…
Floating walls are specially constructed for areas where soil shifting may cause damage to homes. These walls are designed to shift along with the floor and ceiling, an occurrence which is fairly common when unstable soil expands and contracts with temperature or moisture. The walls, which look like standard walls, are most common in finished basements but may also be used in kitchens. Decorating is generally the same as other walls, though some considerations may be necessary.
Shellac is a finish commonly used on raw wood surfaces to prime or seal. As a primer, shellac serves a base coat before a surface is ready to be painted. Shellac is normally applied to a surface that has previously been sanded and is applied using a roller. Shellac dries quickly, usually within two to three hours, but it is best to let the shellac primer dry for 24 hours or overnight before you begin painting over it.
Traditional homes are often defined by full height walls that separate the kitchen from the dining room and the living room. Modern lifestyles dictate the need for open spaces that allow for family interaction. By incorporating partial walls into your kitchen's design, you can enjoy the benefits of both worlds.
Use a brick wall to add elegance to any front yard or lawn space. Renovate the brick wall to last for many years, because this type of structure adds real curb appeal when designed properly. Drive around various neighborhoods to get ideas for your own brick wall. Go over complementary materials that can be used with brick, as well as interesting shapes or curvature of such walls. Experiment with various designs before choosing one that will work best.
Unfortunately, many pre-existing homes are not adequately equipped for most disabled persons. In these situations, a disabled homeowner needs to secure additional funding for domestic remodeling jobs, such as lowering light switches, reducing countertop height and installing handicapped-accessible features for staircases and in bathrooms. Because of the high costs associated with these remodeling jobs, it is often challenging for those on a fixed income to come up with enough liquid capital for the remodeling work. There are several resources available to homeowners and their families.
An old gas, oil-fueled or electric furnace can cost a lot of money in energy and repair bills. Update your home with a new, energy-efficient furnace that can pay for itself in a matter of months. Finance the installation through a traditional lending option, or make the most of the low-interest finance programs offered by many furnace installers.
Replacing your old gas, oil-fueled or electric furnace with a modern, high efficiency gas furnace will save you money by reducing your fuel cost. You will reduce repair bills and at the same time improve your environmental footprint.
Shellac can be purchased in clear or tinted colors. Tinted finish shellac paint is not as popular as clear shellac, which is used in woodworking. However, tinted paint shellac has the same properties. Similar to lacquer, shellac rubs out smooth. Unlike lacquer, shellac is easy to brush and roll in place.
Installing a fence on your property is an investment in the value of your home. The wide variety of fencing available makes this an opportunity to beautify your home, enhance your security and privacy, keep trespassers out and keep pets and young children in. If your credit score is high enough, you can finance your fence installation through a traditional lending institution. If you have poor credit, other options may be available to you.
Eat-in kitchens do not have to be small, cramped spaces with a table in the middle. There are many ways to change the current layout of your eat-in kitchen so that it can serve as your eating space without competing with needed counter space. In order to remodel an eat-in kitchen, there are a few things to consider, such as the colors and theme you want to use as well as what your budget is.
The bungalow style is a type of architecture that usually consists of overhangs in the exterior of the house and a low rise, usually of 1 or 1 1/2 stories. Bungalows are designed to be built in close proximity to each other and require a small area, thus allowing for many units to be built in a community. Bungalow styles are prevalent worldwide, including the United States, Australia, Great Britain and Canada.
Give a bungalow an upscale look by blending new materials with the old. Keep old window frames, built-in cabinets and wood flooring, for example. The character of the home should be preserved while adding modern appliances, fixtures and fresh paint. A bungalow typically has one floor of rooms that flow together with limited hallways or no hallways. However, some bungalows have a second floor with one or two bedrooms under a raised roof. Improve the first floor to fit well with second-floor rooms by planning upgrades and colors that blend well on both levels.
To estimate your kitchen remodeling expenses, decide if you want luxury finishes, midrange products or a mix of both. If you can keep some of your current fixtures and materials, you'll save on both labor and supplies. Though you can keep your budget in check by doing the work yourself, substandard results will detract from the resale value of your home. Only tackle the jobs that you've done before.
Bungalow bathrooms can be challenging to renovate. The spaces may be oddly-shaped, too large or too small, full of period touches and vintage toilets and tubs. Some of that deserves to be preserved. Some should be replaced so the bathroom functions as more than a museum piece. Simple solutions involve adding or subtracting furniture, customizing cabinets, getting theatrical or adding a whole new bathroom in contemporary bungalow style.
The signature of 1950's kitchen countertops are their color, pattern, materials and layout. Arguably more vibrant than the modern 21st-century kitchen where stainless steel reigns, there is also now a harkening back to the 1950's kitchen design, including its countertops. What was once old can be new again by understanding and honoring the fundamentals of 1950's countertop design.
When building a new home or remodeling your current dwelling, planning the kitchen can be one of the most exciting parts of the project because it is such a pivotal room in your home. However, while building your dream kitchen can be enjoyable, there are many details to take care of that can quickly become overwhelming if you are not prepared. Creating a checklist with all of the major steps that you must take to complete the project may help the process go more smoothly and ensure that you wind up with the kitchen that you envision.
Kitchen islands are both attractive and functional. They are the "go to" spot for stacking bags of groceries and an ideal spot to station a buffet for gatherings and parties. Kitchen islands enhance the ability to perform multiple tasks in the kitchen. Cooks can prepare a meal, store away kitchen items and carry on a conversation all at the same time. Islands are also a showcase piece that makes a kitchen look well planned and complete.
Kitchen styles of the 1950s were cutting-edge, and the 2010s have a similar cultural call to bring life back to the traditional home center of the kitchen. A 1950s kitchen style may seem archaic, but many of its features are already a part of our contemporary kitchen, and the retro style, in general, is becoming more of a design demand.
Undertaking the project of remodeling your kitchen has the potential to become a nightmare if you aren't diligent about planning properly and following through with your plan during the construction phase. Certain practices that you can engage in will facilitate remodeling processes. One of the main things you need to make sure to do is to keep the job on schedule. Once things go off schedule, problems can develop in all aspects of the job.
In each episode of "HGTV'd," a family gets a surprise home makeover from an HGTV designer. To be a contestant for an HGTV home makeover, you must submit an application video. This video serves as an audition, and the decision-makers at HGTV take both your home and your personality into consideration. You're in this for a home makeover, but HGTV is casting a television episode, so your application should be as engaging as possible.
The environmental movement, often looked upon as no more than a trend, has gathered huge momentum of late and the green construction industry is booming. As a natural part of that shift, a number of green building certifications and methods of recognition have cropped up for both commercial and residential buildings.
Getting rust stains out of a kitchen sink requires just a few common household items. Clean rust in a kitchen sink with help from the owner of Healthy Home Cleaning in this free video clip.
Remodeling an old, out-of-date kitchen might be your dream; unfortunately, it will remain a fantasy if you do not have the funding. Kitchen remodels can cost tens of thousands of dollars, sometimes more, depending on how much of your kitchen will be gutted. However, if ripping out and replacing cabinets and tile isn't in your budget, do a little bit of recycling. Instead of paying big bucks to flip your entire kitchen, work with what you have to create a beautiful space without the hefty price tag.
You should not automatically make designing a kitchen completely a DIY project. Consider hiring professionals like architects or Certified Kitchen Designers. Just keep in mind that though these professionals may deliver useful ideas, you are the one who is going to have spend significant chunks of time inside the room. For that reason, the ultimate decision must be based on your lifestyle needs and budgetary considerations.
By incorporating a few practical upgrades and fresh color, it's possible to give almost any home a nice, inexpensive makeover, if you approach the remodel with an artistic eye. For example, by changing just one wall color in a room, you can incorporate a brand new color scheme for furnishings. Adding a few bath and kitchen upgrades can help, too.
Almost everyone dreams of owning a cabin, but remodeling it to work well for the family takes careful thought. The limited space of a small cabin requires using all floorspace wisely so that the cabin doesn't seem cramped. Use materials and furnishings that fit your personal taste if you will spend lots of time there. Review cabin design books for remodeling a cabin that you will lease or sell.
You may be considering remodeling your kitchen for a variety of reasons that may range from a desire to improve the kitchen's functionality to outright whim or fancy. Whether or not you convert these thoughts into action depends on factors such as temperament, time and money. The extent to which you may recoup your remodeling costs depends on a myriad of elements, including pure luck.
While home improvement is usually expensive, there are various ways that do-it-yourselfers can fix up the kitchen at a fraction of the cost. The most economical kitchen cabinets are already at your disposal -- the cabinets you already have, but upgraded. Provided the wood is in good condition, you can refresh tired cabinets over a couple of weekends.
By adding new exterior materials and landscaping, you can change the exterior look of a bungalow dramatically. In most cases, however, you will want to maintain much of the charm of this type of home. Review many options before making choices, but ensure the changes will blend well with other neighborhood houses. Also design upgrades that improve the home's interior, especially the kitchen and living room areas.
Almost every home needs upgrades every three to five years. Changing just a few aspects of the kitchen, bathrooms and main living space can make a big difference. However, it sometimes pays to do an extensive makeover. You don't necessarily need to engage in a major remodel or recoup the investment in the near term. Sometimes, you simply want to improve the home because you plan to live there and enjoy it for several years.
Much more goes into remodeling than tearing out fixtures and choosing wallpaper. In a real estate market in which home values are uncertain, everything that you do to your house has the potential to affect your real estate investment, for better or for worse. There are many different online tools that will help you plan your remodeling scheme and decide what you can (and can't) afford.
Among all the rooms in the average home, the kitchen would probably rank among the most important. It's where food is stored, cooked and sometimes even eaten. People in the home are in and out of the kitchen all day as well. When the time comes to remodel it, though, people often find themselves confronted by something close to sticker shock. In truth, it can be one of the most expensive rooms to remodel properly.
Remodeling a kitchen can be a time consuming and expensive endeavor. The best ideas for kitchen remodeling should make the space more functional as well as attractive. A well-designed kitchen decor scheme and layout can make your life easier as well as improve the value of your home.
Remodeling a kitchen is among the best investments a homeowner can make. Not only is the kitchen an important room in the home, but well done remodels also can bring in as much as 105 percent of the investment upon reselling. To get the most out of the job, maintain an appropriate budget and timeline. Making smart design decisions and using quality materials is an ideal way to create an eye-catching kitchen.
Kitchen remodeling can be one of the most stressful construction projects any homeowner will experience. The process dislocates you from where you prepare your food, meaning you'll have to find a makeshift replacement or eat out for every meal. Kitchen appliances are constructed in sizes that vary slightly enough to make measurement complications far too common. Plan ahead, triple-check your measurements and prepare for the remodeling process to take longer than you expected.
Remodeling a kitchen or a bathroom brings with it several concerns that you don't normally face during a renovation of other rooms in the house. These concerns are doubled if you are planning on remodeling both the kitchen and basement at the same time, as part of a complete home overhaul. You can make the already intrusive process of renovating these two functional rooms less frustrating by creating a list of things to do ahead of time that will head off some common troubles.
If you would like to remodel your kitchen and you are not an expert at home repairs and renovations, then odds are you are going to need to hire a remodeling contractor. When you contract out the work for your kitchen remodeling, you need to be very careful about the professional you choose to complete the project. When you don't take your time to find the right contractor, you could end up paying too much for work you're not happy with.
Revamping the kitchen in a historic home should ideally blend the old with the new. Interesting old cabinets, flooring and window frames, for example, should remain. New appliances and countertop materials can harmonize with what's incorporated from yesteryear. Consult with remodeling experts who can advise how to approach a specific remodel for a home such as yours, especially if the home is on a historic register or might be registered in the near future.
Going green is a concept that will help you protect the environment, conserve natural resources and save money at the same time. This gives you plenty of incentive to incorporate green concepts in your kitchen redo. Because your kitchen is probably the most heavily used room in your home, making it greener can have a huge impact on the environment and your energy bills.
Remodeling a kitchen allows homeowners to make the kitchen work area more efficient, to transform the style and décor or to add space for multitasking. Keep a record of the suggestions, tips and advice you receive from all sources in case you need to refer back to them or forget a piece of advice that will come in handy.
An island adds valuable counter and storage space to a kitchen and they can also be used as a space for dining or gathering. If you want to give your kitchen a face-lift, consider including an island in your remodeling plans. An island can serve as a focal point for the kitchen, and updating one that is already present can transform the look of the space.
A kitchen island is one of the most useful aspects in a modern kitchen. It provides you with additional room for cooking, working, dining or socializing when someone is in the kitchen cooking. When planning to install a kitchen island, the design needs to be geared toward your specific needs. Before beginning the building process, there are certain aspects that should be considered at the planning phase.
Remodeling your kitchen can be an exciting home improvement project that helps you tailor the room to your needs. However, a kitchen remodel also involves many decisions and options that can quickly become overwhelming if you are not prepared. Before beginning a kitchen remodeling project, there are several basic elements that you should consider to ensure that your kitchen turns out as you hope.
A large family room will enhance the market value of most homes. Planning the space to function in specific ways for your family will ensure the room gets a lot of use. A larger room offers good options for relaxing, dining and using media equipment. Combining two rooms to create an open space is relatively simple, especially if the adjoining wall is not a load-bearing wall. A larger room is also enjoyable to decorate in most cases, because you can move furniture to the center of the floor space.
Remodeling a kitchen can become a very frustrating experience if you don't arm yourself with patience fortified with an adequate degree of determination. The kitchen remodeling process can mean going without your cooking appliances for several weeks. You must also take an active part by being aware of potential mistakes and missteps like wrong colors, inaccurate cutting and measurement issues. Overriding all of the possible problems at stake in kitchen remodeling is making sure that the final design reflects your ideas and desires.
Remodeling a kitchen is a project that you can do on your own or hire a professional. Unless you are experienced and have the time to complete this job on your own, hiring a contractor can get expensive due to labor costs. To determine the labor costs on a kitchen remodel, you have to do your research on contractors and determine which one is best for you. It may not always be best to go with the cheaper labor costs.
Planning the remodel of a kitchen can be an exciting opportunity to create the kitchen that meets all your needs. Before you get caught up in the excitement of aspects like choosing new appliances and fixtures, though, you need to prepare yourself for the actual work that is involved in remodeling a kitchen. Several factors must be taken into account before the first nail or screw is driven into place.
Kitchen remodeling is a serious undertaking that should not be entered into lightly. Before you start the remodeling process, take some time to think through the task. By doing so, you can likely ensure that your resulting kitchen is everything that you wanted it to be and prevent the process from becoming an overly taxing one.
You may finally have the kitchen of your dreams after it is newly remodeled. Changing your kitchen brings new flooring, cabinets, countertops and appliances, taking it into the modern age. Complete the transformation process by decorating your remodeled kitchen to reflect the changes you made.
Kitchens of the 1950s were cheerful, cozy places to be. They were the family hub, where warmth and good smells emanated from the stove as the family gathered at mealtimes. For those who appreciate the nostalgia of the '50s kitchen, it's possible to bring back the look and ambience of days gone by.
You've made a significant investment in your kitchen by installing new cabinets. Now it's time to look at the rest of the kitchen and decide how you can make everything else look just as fresh and stylish. Your kitchen will most certainly need a fresh coat of paint, along with improved lighting fixtures, new appliances and other upgrades.
Bungalows or Craftsman-era homes are prevalent in California and other areas of the United States. Most of these homes were built in the 1920s through the 1940s. They are often compact, but feature built-in millwork and other architecturally significant details. When remodeling a bungalow house, you must make some updates so that the house accommodates your modern life-style, while still preserving its character and defining elements.
Remodeling different parts of your house can greatly increase the value of your home. The kitchen offers a wide variety of remodeling options that can completely change the feel of one of the most used space in many homes. You can give the home a rustic feel by using vintage appliances or use modern appliances and color schemes to make it more chic. Hiring an interior decorator can be very expensive. Luckily, many online solutions exist to help you design your kitchen remodel at your own pace and for free.
If you are the owner of a home with a luxury kitchen, you likely spent quite a bit of money for high-end appliances, natural stone counter tops and custom cabinetry. However, if you long for a change, there are a few ways to update your kitchen without spending a lot of money all over again. The luxury kitchen basics are already in place, so you just need to make a few changes to give the space a new look.
Whether you are just moving into an older home with outdated kitchen lighting or if you just need to update your current kitchen lighting, it is not a difficult process to remodel the ceiling lighting. Factors that come into play when deciding on the project's scope include the amount of money you are willing to spend, the time you are willing to spend and the style of your kitchen.
Combining one or more rooms into one space will often make a house appear larger. A new design can incorporate freestanding support columns, partial dividing walls and sliding doors between room sections. Having a totally open area still requires defining separate spaces for cooking, dining or entertaining. Strategic placement of furniture and cabinets will help define these separate areas. With fewer walls and an open floor plan, a house will accommodate more people for social gatherings or holiday events.
Remodeling an apartment kitchen is a task that may seem difficult to complete due to the compact size of the area you have to work with. Although an apartment kitchen is smaller than a kitchen in a house, you can still maximize the space you have to create a workspace that has the same feel and visual appeal as that of a home. Since most apartments are rented units, if you are not the landlord, it is important to check your rental agreement to see if you are permitted to make major changes.
Home remodeling is typically an expensive endeavor. The cost of materials and skilled labor, along with those unforeseen problems that tend to crop up along the way, can drive a project over budget. Of course, you can save a bundle by completing the work yourself, eliminating the cost of professional labor. But if you lack the skills or the time to renovate yourself, there are other ways to keep costs down. Little changes can make a big impact. Plan ahead, research costs and implement these cost-cutting measures in your remodeling project.
Remodeling your kitchen isn't just about getting rid of that 20-year-old refrigerator. In fact, a kitchen remodel is one of the best things you can do to increase the market value of your home. With careful planning and wise money management, you can boost your home's worth and get the kitchen you've always wanted --- all without breaking the bank.
If you enjoy entertaining, a home bar may be one of the best-used fixtures in your home. But if you've used that bar for a while, it may be looking a bit dated. It may be time to remodel. You may want to consider moving the bar to another place in the room, or it might be in the best spot right now. Regardless, your remodeled bar promises to be a gathering place that you will enjoy for many years to come.
Revitalize your kitchen, bathroom or dining room by painting the cabinets. Painting kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities or built-in china cabinets is an inexpensive way to refresh the rooms. With some work and time, you can do this project yourself and save the expense of a complete remodeling and still have a new fresh look. Be prepared for it to take two weeks or more and plan the project for when there is not too much activity in the room.
When a finish becomes dull, cracked or simply dated, it's time to take action. Instead of throwing out a cabinet when it becomes an eyesore, consider painting it. Regardless of the previous finish, painting is possible. Take the time, and turn that old cabinet into a do-it-yourself project to be proud of.
Green building has proved so much more than a trend; it has staying power. However, people who plan to remodel their existing homes often feel excluded from the green building movement. In reality, green remodeling projects can result in some of the greenest structures around. Before you begin a green remodel, evaluate your budget and main concerns. You'll be surprised to find that your interior will feel much more comfortable, yet you'll be spending less on your energy bills.
Kitchen remodels are among the most expensive projects homeowners take on. Expensive finish materials and appliances contribute to the high cost of making a dream kitchen a reality. But remodeling your kitchen does not have to deplete your savings. By planning carefully and taking the time to look for discounts, it is possible to transform the space while saving money.
Furnishing and decorating a kitchen is a matter of personal preference. One homeowner's ideal country kitchen may be another's bad dream. But priorities for anyone who's furnishing and decorating a kitchen should be ergonomics and practicality. The family cook needs to be comfortable while he's working. He needs a kitchen where he can reach and find everything easily. A space such as this, regardless of its size, is likely to please the person or people who use it.
Turn an old table, shelf or wooden object into a unique collage of family photos or art object through the craft technique known as decoupage. Decoupage transforms your old wood furniture into a delightful work of art using nothing more than glue and shellac. This project takes a few hours to complete, but may require significant planning time for you to get your layout just right.
Painting cabinets is a much more wallet-friendly way to revamp a space when a complete remodel is neither necessary nor financially possible. With the right preparation, any cabinet---no matter how old or grimy--can be repainted to reflect your changing tastes and completely invigorate a room. The shade of brown you choose will determine the number of coats of paint you'll need.
If your cabinets have been shellacked, you'll need to remove the glossy element before you can paint. Shellac is a type of glossy varnish typically applied to wood cabinets. It often adds a yellow or orange cast to the finish. Unlike painted cabinets, the glossiness of shellac does not hold paint well unless you prepare the surface before you apply the paint, requiring extra preparation. You must remove the shellac before applying the paint if you want to keep the paint from flaking off the surface at a later date.
If you've got an old kitchen cabinet that's become dingy and worn, don't replace it until you assess whether it just needs refinishing. Most wood cabinets that aren't painted are finished with wood stain, topped with varnish or polyurethane. Replacing the stain and the gloss can make a cabinet look new. Only solid wood cabinets -- not wood veneer -- should be refinished.
Painting is an inexpensive way to update old cabinets, cover damage or give a room a new look without replacing the cabinets. Oak cupboards present an extra challenge for painting, however, because of the open grain of the wood. Without proper preparation, the grain will show through the paint, even after several coats. In order to get a smooth, even finish, proper preparation is essential. A wood grain filler and a coat of primer will provide the surface necessary to get a professional look.
Shellac is a type of finish used on cabinets and cupboards. Painting over shellac requires a lot of preparation. The cabinets must be cleared of the glossy shellac finish before the paint can be applied. Inadequate preparation of the shellac cupboards may result in an easily chipped paint finish. Painting kitchen cupboards is an easy and inexpensive way to update your cabinetry. Although painting shellac cabinets is cheap, it can be a time consuming process. Extra time spent during the preparation process will give you a professional finish.
Ranch-style homes were introduced to the U.S. in the 1920s, becoming popular post-World War II. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, most new homes being built were some variation on the ranch style. Typically long, rectangular homes, ranch houses generally have open floor plans and are single-story, with the exception of split-level, or raised ranches which have two stories. Homes built in the 1950s-60s usually have small U-shaped kitchens, often with awkward corners that can make storage difficult. Remodeling can be tricky, depending on your floor plan. However, outdated flooring, cabinets, countertops, appliances and tiles are generally easy to replace.
An Airlite is a specific style of row home, or town home, with many examples found specifically in Philadelphia, Penn. Airlite row homes became popular in the 1940s, and they are regaining interest for their space, efficiency and proximity to the city. They are constructed with a kitchen and dining room sharing space at the back of the house, and few windows. Remodel by using space creatively to modernize your Airlite home and increase its value.
A kitchen with a high ceiling can make your space seem less cramped and more open and inviting. Unfortunately, some people run into problems decorating due to all that extra space. A higher ceiling means you have more wall to decorate, and that's not always possible, though a few visual tricks can alleviate that issue. Follow a few steps to improve the decor of your high-ceiling kitchen and make it more inviting.
Only a fraction of people ever get to configure their kitchen exactly the way they want it. If you are building a new kitchen or completely remodeling, you are probably very excited and very overwhelmed. Deciding which appliances are worth paying for may be difficult, especially if you are splurging on high-end selections. Knowing which ones warrant the splurge can ensure that you are satisfied with your finished kitchen.
Remodeling your kitchen does not require you to spend a month or even a weekend performing the remodel. Instead, you may wish to remodel your kitchen in a day. Remodeling your kitchen in a day may require you to remodel certain aspects of it and not others; for example, you may decide to paint the walls rather than replace the flooring. However, you do not need any specific carpentry skills or tools to remodel a kitchen in a day.
Bucks and Montgomery counties are located in southeastern Pennsylvania and are within commuting distance of Philadelphia and New York City. Should people from Bucks and Montgomery counties opt to sell their houses for shorter commutes, The Home Depot spokesman for Pennsylvania, Nick Blassman, states a kitchen remodeling should be considered first before listing the house on the real estate market, as a kitchen is 5 to 15 percent of the total worth of the house.
Remodeling a kitchen can be an expensive and time-consuming process, so choose the room's color scheme carefully. The floor, appliances, cabinets and walls all need to flow using complementary colors, or you may quickly be displeased with the look of your new kitchen. If you need help picking out some base colors for the remodeled kitchen, keep these suggestions in mind.
Kitchen remodeling can get rather expensive if you are planning to overhaul the whole room. For this reason, it is best to estimate the cost of the project so that you know what you are getting into ahead of time. Before you estimate you kitchen remodel, decide what exactly you want include, such as cabinets or flooring. This way you can concentrate only on the expenses that are necessary to complete the work.
A kitchen built in a ranch house 50 years ago is probably in need of some attention after half a century of wear and tear. Changing culinary tastes and design standards have likely outdated a kitchen in a ranch-style house as well. Adding modern appliances and putting a new sheen on the counters and cabinets will spruce up your kitchen and make it a more enjoyable place to cook.
The stages of a kitchen remodel begins with a survey of what you've got, what you want to get rid of and what you want to add. Remodeling the kitchen can be either a very complex exercise that totally transforms the area or it can mean just a cosmetic change of buying new appliances. Either way, you need to go into your kitchen remodeling with a goal as well as a plan to reach that goal.
If you have just starting on the process of remodeling your kitchen, you're bound to need ideas and help laying out those ideas. If you plan to do the remodel yourself, then you won't have a contractor to assist you with this. There are, however, online tools that help you design and lay out your kitchen, and you can use many of these tools free of charge.
Small 10x12 kitchens are difficult to work in with more than one person and typically don't come with all the bells and whistles that a larger kitchen sometimes has; however, this doesn't have to be the case, and with a little remodel, you can spruce up your little space and enjoy your upgrade. As a bonus, smaller kitchens do have one advantage. Remodeling doesn't normally cost as much because you don't have to buy as much material.
Many bungalows were built in the post-war years of the 20th century, and many still have their original kitchens. Standards have changed since then, and many people, even those who love their bungalows, find the kitchens cramped, poorly laid out and inconvenient. A bit of creativity and possibly the help of a professional designer can transform a bungalow kitchen from a headache to the highlight of your home.
When starting to remodel a kitchen, you need to consider more than simply color and decorations. You need to figure out how to lay out your cabinets, whether or not to add an island feature and what type of countertops will work best for you. But a do-it-yourselfer doesn't need to figure this out all by himself. Kitchen remodel tools help you with the process, and many of these tools are free.
When your budget is low and your kitchen needs a facelift, look for small projects that can be completed without outside help. By completing the labor yourself, you can stick with your budget and spruce up your kitchen. Many kitchen remodeling projects can be completed in an afternoon or on a weekend.
Remodeling your kitchen can improve its looks, functionality and energy efficiency. Although kitchen remodels can be expensive, you can recoup a significant percentage of the project cost when it's time to sell your home.
The Mission-style kitchen is a study in simplicity and rich materials. Mission style combines Arts and Crafts elements with American Southwest and Spanish mission influences. The shapes are pared down and angular, and the fixtures are unadorned. But decorative touches show up in accessories and in the way the materials are worked.
Put serious thought into your kitchen remodel before you remodel it. Remodeling a kitchen can be expensive, but it increases the value of your home. Kitchens come in many styles, shapes and colors. Take your specific kitchen shape into account when deciding what to incorporate into your kitchen remodel. Storage, food preparation and clean up must be considered when remodeling your kitchen, as these are the basic functions of a kitchen. You do not have to move appliances when remodeling, unless of course you wish to do so.
It's time to spice up the boring, white kitchen ceiling. Many homeowners' forget to remodel their ceilings when redoing their kitchens. White ceilings do not have any character or design. Instead of having a white ceiling in your kitchen, remodeling the ceiling will help to emphasize the beauty of your kitchen. Remodeling your ceiling creates an elegant look and feel to your kitchen. Ceilings painted in a color become noticed by everyone who enters a home.
Much more casual than a dining room table, kitchen bars are places where you have your morning coffee, where the kids have a quick snack, and where friends or family sit and chat with you while you cook. Over time, a kitchen bar can become outdated or worn down. It's possible to creatively transform your bar at little to no cost.
You can create the illusion of a new kitchen stove by giving your old stove a face-lift. You can do this by cleaning the stove thoroughly, painting it, replacing old knobs and handles, and adding burner covers. You can roll the paint on or use spray paint. Any stove can be repainted. Dover white is a popular color that blends well with any theme. Black is also popular, but choose any color that you like.
Not only does remodeling a kitchen make it more pleasant to cook in, but it also makes the space more appealing for potential buyers when the home is sold eventually. Although kitchen remodels vary drastically in scope and cost, even the most basic kitchen remodeling jobs focus on at least some of the main target areas.
Many homeowners leave kitchen remodeling last on their "to do" list because they fear it will be expensive. It can be, but it is also possible to achieve a fresh new kitchen look on a limited budget. If your kitchen components don't need to be ripped out and replaced, you can find many cheap remodeling ideas that will transform the space.
A successful kitchen remodel depends on two preliminary steps. First, realistically assess how much money you can spend so that you can make good decisions about the process at every step. Second, make a simple plan view drawing of the kitchen, looking down from above. Drawing it at 1/2-inch scale will make it easier to put in details.
The 1950s were known for bright colors and a clean look. This retro or vintage look is now coming back, especially in regard to kitchens. Designers make decorations that look like they came from the 1950s, including brightly colored pots, pans and utensils. Homeowners are even flocking to thrift stores and yard sales, hoping to find a few authentic pieces for their home. Ideas for remodeling a 1950s-style kitchen can let you recreate the look of the era right in your own home.
You may have ideas regarding what you'd like your new kitchen to look like, but are unsure of how to go about putting together a design. With 3D kitchen remodeling tools, you can create the kitchen of your dreams. Computer software programs are available that will allow you to see what your new kitchen will look like before you begin remodeling in real life.
Kitchens with high ceilings have a lot of potential for creative decorating. The high ceilings create a sense of space, making the room seem larger than it actually is. They also provide wall space for extensive cabinets, art, and windows. In addition, the ceilings themselves may be suitable for the addition of skylights.
While restoration requires knowledge of historical accuracy and renovation requires extensive carpentry skills, remodeling is typically less complex. Remodeling a kitchen can be as simple as repainting the walls and installing new appliances or as complicated as installing new cabinetry and countertops. The most important piece of the remodeling puzzle is advance planning.
When it's time to remodel your kitchen, you may want to jump in and do the work yourself instead of hiring a handyman to do it for you. People who havea natural flair for crafts will enjoy repainting furniture and making simple, relatively inexpensive changes that will transform the kitchen. Whether you plan on making large remodeling changes or small additions, consider the functionality of the kitchen and how to make it work best for you and your family.
Many homeowners remember the warmth and coziness of Grandma's kitchen. With bread baking in the oven, pies cooling in an open window and pots of coffee brewing on the stove, memories of this time in our lives are special. Designing a retro kitchen that reminds us of a vintage space is a wonderful way to recreate Grandma's kitchen in our own homes. With the mixing of a retro color palette, white cabinetry, vintage-looking appliances, old linens and accessories in mid-century motifs, a vintage kitchen is attainable for most homeowners who desire a room that reflects a simpler time.
Kitchens are often the centerpiece of a house. Everyone in the family uses them, guests often see them, and a good bit of time is spent in the kitchen. When people think to remodel their house, the kitchen is more times than not the first place they target. But remodeling a kitchen isn't as simple as picking a new one out from the store and bringing it home. You have to consider every aspect of the kitchen, from the floor to the ceiling and everything in between.
If your kitchen is large enough, you can easily add an island to give you some extra space for working, storage, eating, cooking or preparing meals. You'll want at least three or four feet on each side of the island to move about comfortably, more if you're adding something that opens, such as a dishwasher or oven. After measuring your kitchen, you can start thinking about how you want to use your island and what style you desire.
The challenge with remodeling an antique kitchen is finding the appropriate balance. You don't want to wipe out all the antique items and aspects of this room as these things are what make it unique; you also don't want your kitchen to become another carbon copy of a modern kitchen found in a magazine. Instead, you want to find a harmony between the elements in your kitchen that are old-fashioned and the modern comforts and characteristics you'd like to introduce.
When a kitchen appliance stops working or is just looking outdated, it is probably time to change out that appliance. As you consider getting a new appliance, things like price, function, color and size all have to be looked at. Your kitchen appliances are likely to be the most costly change you will make to your kitchen, second only to your cabinets. Putting forth the effort to select the best appliance will be rewarded with appliances that fit the look and function of your kitchen.
The decorating style of the 1940s allowed for bold, bright colors. When remodeling your 1940’s kitchen, consider implementing your favorite bold color into your kitchen. Consider shopping local consignment shops for vintage artwork and decorative display items for your kitchen remodel. You do not have to change your appliances when designing your 1940’s kitchen; instead think about colors, vintage items and bold patterns. Allow your imagination to guide you during your remodel, but take into consideration the kitchen was typically the most used room in the home during this era and plan accordingly.
Kitchen remodeling can be an expensive task, requiring thousands of dollars. But an investment such as this can pay off greatly in the form of property-value appreciation. A newly renovated kitchen not only enhances your own living space but also can be a major selling point for an individual property. There are several ways you can finance a kitchen renovation project, allowing you to maintain your cash reserves especially if you are in a financially tight situation.
Kitchens are probably the most popular room in a home. Planning a kitchen for a new home can be a fun and exciting experience as you think about the ways our family will utilize the space. In addition, homeowners who are remodeling their kitchen should also take the time to plan out the space before they begin renovations. Deciding on a good budget and layout will help you to get started.
Remodeling a kitchen can cost thousands of dollars. Learning how to do much of the remodeling yourself will allow you to recycle some of that extra money you would spend on contractors for things that you really want. Handy homeowners can DIY most, if not all, of the projects in a kitchen remodel.
Remodeling a galley kitchen on a budget does not involve replacing expensive appliances or laying new flooring. Removing unnecessary items from your kitchen such as accessories or doors immediately creates an illusion of openness, thus making your galley kitchen feel and look larger. Painting gives your kitchen a fresh, newly remodeled look and feel as well. When arranging your kitchen, take into consideration the functionality of where you place items within your galley kitchen.
According to Realtor Magazine, a minor kitchen remodel will most likely give you a return on your investment when you put your house on the market. Even if you do not plan to sell your house, a low-budget remodel can transform a heavily-trafficked, outdated kitchen into a inviting, useful, family-friendly space.
Remodeling a commercial kitchen has with a specific purpose. Perhaps your commercial kitchen has been around for years and needs a facelift. Maybe your restaurant has new management and the boss says it's time to change. Whatever the case, remodeling a commercial kitchen does not have to be a difficult task. Careful planning for the safety and functionality of the kitchen will benefit the restaurant in the long run.
Before you begin a kitchen remodel, consider how you want to use the kitchen and prepare a kitchen layout plan that helps you accomplish your goals. Finances and time can seriously restrict remodel plans so, when planning, include the expense of the project as well as how long it will take to complete. There are few hard and fast kitchen remodeling rules but some things remain tried and true.
When remodeling your contemporary kitchen, take into consideration that contemporary kitchens typically consist of man-made products--stainless steel, laminate, frosted glass, concrete and lacquer, according to the Kitchens.com website. Contemporary kitchens commonly contain clean lines and lack embellishments, drawing stylistic inspiration from Germany, Italy and Scandinavia. When remodeling your contemporary kitchen, take into consideration your personal carpentry skills. You may wish to hire a professional contractor for your remodeling project.
Narrow kitchens also known as galley kitchens resemble a hallway. These kitchens do not typically have any windows in them and are often found in apartments. Incorporating more light into a narrow kitchen makes it appear and feel much larger. Placing appliances in inconvenient areas in the kitchen may become bothersome after awhile. When designing your remodel, consider the functionality of your kitchen.
Remodeling a tiny kitchen does not require you to completely perform a full-scale remodel. Changing a few things can open your space up. Consider the size of the items in your kitchen when you design your kitchen remodel. Scale large items down in your kitchen. For example, if you have large canisters on your counter, purchase smaller versions for a more balanced look and feel to the kitchen.
While a kitchen remodel can be exciting, it doesn't come without challenges. While your kitchen is being re-invented, you and your family will have to find alternative methods to store and prepare food. Logical discussion and advance preparation can make this transition period much easier for all of you. By fashioning a makeshift kitchen area elsewhere in your home, your family members won't feel quite as displaced.
Remodeling a kitchen to black and white allows for limitless possibilities. Perhaps you do not like the look of black or white appliances; if this is the case, stainless steel works well in a black and white kitchen as well. Black and white naturally contrast one another in a kitchen. If your kitchen does not have a lot of room use black sparingly, as too much will make your kitchen feel small.
The room that usually needs help in an older home is the kitchen. Because the kitchen is the hub of the home you want to have modern amenities there. But you do not need to gut a kitchen. Paint changes a space immediately. Updated floors, appliances and countertops can bring a modern atmosphere into an older home.
A country kitchen inspires a warm and inviting feel to the heart of the home. Most any kitchen can be remodeled to meet the standards of a country kitchen. A few specific steps and some moderate effort will ensure that your remodel is a success and that your kitchen is the country kitchen of your dreams in no time.
The kitchen is the heart of your home. It is a place to prepare the family meals, create feasts for the holidays and grab quick snacks. Remodel a drab outdated kitchen into a luxury kitchen of your dreams. A high end kitchen is designed with natural granite countertops, farm sinks, copper sinks, pot fillers, warming drawers, dishwasher drawers, double ovens and refrigerator drawers. The cabinetry is custom designed with attention to detail. Plan to remodel a luxury kitchen if you will be living in the house for more than seven years.
The kitchen is a focal point of your home and the hub of family activity. It also is one of the most important rooms of your house if you are considering putting it on the real estate market. Remodeling your kitchen can be a huge and sometimes expensive undertaking. It is always best to create a checklist before you begin.
Remodeling for a more functional kitchen design begins with a checklist of observations about the kinds of meals that you plan to cook and how many people will be eating that food. A functional kitchen remodeling checklist also will consider the amount of entertaining you plan to do, the other activities that may regularly be taking place inside the kitchen and how adaptable the new design will be to lifestyle changes over time.
A kitchen in an old home has unique problems and potential. The countertop and sink might be worn and yet positioned in the optimal place. Cabinet doors might be ugly though otherwise in perfect working order. Appliances might work just fine but look like antiques. To remodel the kitchen in an old home, consider turning old into new rather than throwing everything away. Your kitchen remodel will cost far less but still give you the beautiful modern kitchen you dream of.
Looking to change your kitchen but don't have much of a budget to work with? If you're tired of the kitchen you're currently working with, take heart. It turns out that minor kitchen remodeling jobs have a high return on investment at 85.2 percent, according to Remodeling magazine. What seem like small changes to your existing kitchen can reap financial rewards.
Kitchen renovations are often one of the most expensive remodeling projects in the home. Between pricey kitchen appliances, wood cabinetry and countertops, the remodel of your kitchen is likely to cost a hefty sum; however, there are many ways to help reduce the costs involved with a kitchen redo. One way to cut back on expenditures is to remodel your laminate kitchen countertops by applying a beautiful faux paint technique. With a few paint supplies and several simple faux finishing paint steps, kitchen countertops are renovated with a beautiful finish and an economical price tag.
There are many affordable ways to remodel a kitchen that will yield desirable results in a short time. Most of these projects can be done by yourself with a little bit of research and preparation. It's important to have an overall kitchen design in mind before attempting one of these projects.
Making a checklist for your plans to remodel or renovate your kitchen can help prevent unexpected problems on the way to completion. This checklist can also guide you toward creating the most efficient kitchen for your specific needs rather than trying to duplicate a dream kitchen you have seen that simply is not suited for your situation.
When you remodel your kitchen, you should have some goals in mind. Whether you are remodeling to give yourself more counter space or making some changes to the overall theme of your kitchen, you should have a plan in advance so you can set a budget. Once you have your plan in mind and your budget set, you can begin to explore a variety of kitchen remodeling ideas.
Remodeling a kitchen on a budget is very doable with a "surface remodel." More cosmetic than construction, this leaves the kitchen configured the way it was. There's no need to move the sink or plumbing--just give the walls a new paint job, replace old appliances, and add new cabinet doors and countertops. With a surface remodel, small changes can go a long way in making the kitchen appear fresh and up-to-date.
If you cannot afford new kitchen countertops, remodeling the ones that you already have is a good alternative. There are many techniques for creating a new look with the kitchen countertops that already exist, but many of them are difficult, time-consuming and require a great amount of skill. In addition, some refacing styles are not widely appreciated, which can lower the resale value of your home. One of the easiest countertop remodels to accomplish yourself is overlaying your existing countertops with concrete. Concrete is popular in modern homes, it looks fantastic and is neutral enough to suit a multitude of…
Get creative when remodeling your kitchen or bathroom on a low budget. Many thrift stores carry items gently used for an inexpensive price. You can find great deals at garage sales as well. Remodeling your kitchen or bathroom does not have to cost a small fortune. Spending a small amount of money combined with effort can give you a new look and feel to your home.
Kitchens and bathrooms sell a home. Often the most used rooms in a home, they can become worn and sad looking. A kitchen and bath remodel will update your home and make it feel fresh again. Homeowners who are considering a remodel should think about the basics of a room remodel before getting started.
Remodeling a kitchen with brick adds charm and warmth to the room. Brick is a durable, long-term material that will likely outlast many other elements of the kitchen. Brick can be installed by professionals during a remodel, or if you have do-it-yourself skills you may be able to do some or all of the work yourself.
Kitchen and bathroom remodels will bring you the largest return on investment upon home resale. The return on investment (ROI) of a remodeled kitchen can reach 100 percent when you sell your home. The downside is that kitchen remodels can cost more than $50,000. However, depending on some key factors and how much elbow grease you are willing or able to expend, you can remodel your kitchen on a budget.
If your small kitchen has been the bane of your cooking existence, remodeling the area into a sleek galley kitchen can make the space more efficient and revitalize your culinary interest. Known for their narrow design and facing cabinets, galley kitchens are common in older houses, but their space-saving designs are making a comeback.
Kitchens sell houses for a reason. It's the most expensive room to remodel, and homebuyers know it. Remodeling can range from a few hundred dollars, if you're sprucing up the paint and decor, to tens of thousands if you're replacing appliances and countertops. To keep the cost down, use your existing layout and replace items. This is cheaper than changing where the sink and everything else is located. When you estimate a kitchen remodel, take into account the mechanical, labor and fixture costs.
Kitchens serve as a hub of activity in many homes. They often serve not only as a cooking and eating spot but also a place to do homework and complete projects. A kitchen remodel can maximize the space you have, make the kitchen more functional and increase its visual appeal. Remodeling a kitchen space yourself makes the project affordable and rewarding. Careful planning before you begin increases the chances of a successful kitchen remodel.
There is not one right way to remodel a vintage kitchen. This is because doing a "vintage" remodel essentially means that you are staying true to a certain time period or era. A vintage kitchen can be 1960s vintage, 1980s vintage or even 1999 vintage. Remodeling a vintage kitchen means paying attention to the small details and playing up important trends in the look of time period you are trying to achieve. However, vintage remodeling does not mean slavishly following the bad ideas of previous generations.
A home that boasts an original 1950s kitchen is likely to be charming but outdated and worn. It may be tempting for homeowners to rip out an old kitchen and start fresh with modern finishes and amenities. However, there are a few things that homeowners can do to a 1950s kitchen that will update and make the space more functional for cooking and eating---while staying true to its vintage style.
The average cost of kitchen remodeling depends on the size, condition and layout of the existing kitchen. It also depends on the quality of materials you use. According to bhg.com, cabinets account for half of the cost of the remodeling project. The total cost varies according to the individual items you choose.
One of the most important rooms in the house, the kitchen should be functional without losing style. Remodeling the kitchen improves not only the look of the entire house, but also improves the chances of selling the home when the time is right. No matter what your budget is, there are endless options to updating the look of the kitchen without going overboard on the spending.
Kitchens and bathroom remodelings usually give you the best return on your investment when you sell your home. Whether you plan to move soon or live in your home indefinitely, putting money into the kitchen is a smart investment. It's even better if you can cut remodeling costs on the project. The key is to save money without sacrificing the quality and finished look of the remodeled kitchen.
Remodeling a kitchen can be an expensive, arduous process. Before undertaking the overhaul project, it is a good idea to make a list of all the things you want to change and upgrade. If you are going to completely remodel your kitchen, you don’t want to find out when it is over that you forgot to do something. Minor changes can vary based on the individual doing the remodeling, but there are a few major factors that everyone should consider.
According to CNN Money, upscale kitchen remodeling in 2010 does not produce the same return on investment it did at the height of the housing boom in 2005. It is more important than ever to make wise choices for a kitchen makeover. Thoughtful budgeting, realistic expectations and taking enough time to research and plan will help you avoid some of the most common big mistakes in kitchen renovation.
A kitchen remodel serves to update your existing kitchen, make it more functional and increase the value of your home should you choose to sell. Before tackling a project, it's important to determine what you're able and willing to spend on your kitchen.
The kitchen is the heart of any home and it's often the most expensive area to remodel. Although kitchens offer a high return on investment, a full renovation might not be within your budget. But you should be able to revitalize your kitchen relatively cheaply and still have money left over to accessorize.
Demolishing your own kitchen for a remodel can save you a lot of money. Some homeowners might think gutting a kitchen is as simple as taking a sledgehammer to the cabinets and walls, but they are sadly proved wrong once they start. A few basic tips can help homeowners demolish their kitchen without damaging their home.
Kitchen closets often serve as a pantry, storing surplus food or items that don't fit in the kitchen cupboards. Kitchen closets also tend to end up as a dumping ground for lots of random items. Most homes have limited closet space so making the best use of a closet in the kitchen is important. A kitchen closet remodel helps you make the most of the space, whether you use it as a closet pantry or for another purpose.
A refinished kitchen sink can create a totally new effect in a kitchen and it's a simple, low cost alternative to replacement that you can complete in a day. Transforming a plain white sink into a re-glazed, functional, accent piece is possible by applying a new color and a bright, glossy, scratch free surface. Refinishing a sink seems difficult at first, but with the right tools and instructions, you can resurface your sink for the cost of the bonding agent, refinishing paint coating and a few other inexpensive items.
For years, you've managed to get by with your microwave sitting on your countertop. Now that it's time for a kitchen remodel, you can get that microwave off your countertop and into a designated space. You'll have more space for food preparation and a more attractive kitchen.
Visions of stainless steel appliances and granite counters often turn to nightmares for homeowners attempting a kitchen remodel. With a main room of the home in a state of chaos, it's easy to see how the project can wear on all family members. But a little preparation goes a long way if you're planning to give your kitchen a makeover.
Grease traps are sometimes referred to as interceptors. Most municipalities requir grease traps be installed in restaurants, school kitchens and commercial cooking establishments. Typically, grease traps are not required in residential homes. Traps function as small reservoirs that divide grease and other materials from the waste water. This prevents grease, oil, fat, wax and other debris from entering the local sanitary system. Heavy accumulations of waste leads to breakdowns in the system, such as overflows, backups and other problems.
Kitchen islands add countertop work space for kitchens, serve as informal dining areas, and create a gathering spot in one of the most popular rooms in the house. Remodeling an outdated kitchen island makes the area as beautiful as it is functional. Consider the uses of the island when deciding what changes to make to the area. If your budget doesn't allow a complete kitchen makeover, a remodel of the kitchen island provides a small change that can perk up the entire room.
A dingy kitchen floor detracts from the room as a whole, making it seem outdated and dirty. A new floor surface makes the room more inviting for dinner guests and the residents of the home. Set a budget for the kitchen floor remodel to ensure you don't go overboard. Factor in installation costs if a professional contractor will handle that part of the project.
Most people spend a majority of their time in the kitchen, either preparing food, eating or doing the dishes. If you have a dull, drab kitchen, a good remodel or even just sprucing it up can lighten up your spirits. Take some time to decide how you can make yours more appealing.
Kitchen remodeling costs vary significantly based on a number of factors. The average kitchen remodel costs between $18,000 and $25,000 but can reach up to $100,000 depending on the size and details selected. Estimating the cost of kitchen remodeling prepares a homeowner for what to expect when embarking on the project. Before you begin estimating the costs, determine how much you have to spend. Setting the budget before you begin helps you keep things in perspective and may avoid overspending. Remember that many remodeling projects go over budget when unexpected problems arise. Build in a buffer in the remodeling budget…
With the popularity of home cooking and entertaining shows, having a sharp, well-designed kitchen is more important than ever. Modernizing your kitchen is one of the best ways to increase the value of a home, and you can do it without breaking the bank.
Are you having trouble coming up with kitchen remodel ideas for the redesign of your kitchen? If so, there are quite a few sources of inspiration out there if you are willing to go out and look for them. Redesigning a kitchen is an expensive, time-consuming process and you want to make sure that everything is done exactly the way you want it. If you are in need of inspiration to come up with new kitchen remodel ideas for your home, there are quite a few places that you can turn.
Remodeling your kitchen can transform your home and add resale value. However, getting from concept to completion can be intimidating, especially when you decide to hire a contractor. Contracting for a kitchen remodel requires up-front planning and research, but doing so will set expectations, control costs and establish the basis for a written contract.
Planning your kitchen remodeling job is not easy, but as a homemaker you know the importance of having a kitchen that fits the lifestyle and eating habits of the family. You can actually improve its function by strategically planning your kitchen layout and implementing it.
You may have a tight budget, but a well-planned kitchen remodel can almost double the return on your investment. Kitchens sell homes. Don't spend up to a third of your limited funds on contractors; if you’re skilled at handling power tools and using a paintbrush or want to try your hand at laying flooring, do some of the work yourself. Even if you’re not planning to sell, spend every dollar wisely to capitalize on your remodeling project.
According to Remodeling Magazine's 2008-2009 Cost vs. Value Report, mid-range major kitchen remodeling projects yielded a 76 percent return on investment. Even minor kitchen renovation projects resulted in an 80 percent payback. Going with an eco-friendly or green kitchen can increase return by reducing energy costs.
Many homeowners reach a point where they know that their kitchen has problems. Often these problems include inadequate countertop space, cabinets that open and hit other appliances or doors, poor lighting, not enough floor space for two people to cook together, nowhere to sit and eat, poor window and doorway placement and not enough space. Before you can remodel your kitchen, you often have to remodel the existing kitchen design so that the function, as well as the appearance of the kitchen, will improve the value of the home and meet your needs if you intend to live in the…
Tall ceilings are usually considered an asset in a space. However, if you have a kitchen with tall ceilings, this scenario can pose a challenge in determining the configuration of the room. What do you do with that odd space left above the kitchen cabinets? How do you appropriately light the room? How can you use this extra space for vertical storage? Consider these strategies for remodeling a kitchen with tall ceilings.
When you're considering how to remodel your kitchen, don't just think about what kinds of cabinets you'd like or what type of countertop might match them. Think themes, and then choose your kitchen essentials with the theme in mind. What era or place do you want to evoke? What kind of feeling do you want to create? Before you raise the first hammer, you should be able to describe, in a few words, the theme your kitchen will have. Make that the framework for the project.
A kitchen remodel is often an exciting prospect that is anticipated with nervous anticipation. Imagining the finished kitchen can tend to captivate the attention, while the process between the point of imagination and reality remain unclear. Most homeowners have a reasonably good idea of what they think they want. Often they will check out cabinets and floor tile and admire particular counter tops. But unless the kitchen is a direct swap out of finishes, there is a lot more to a kitchen remodel than the pieces.
Remodeling a kitchen can be a tough job, as the aesthetic aspect is not the only thing you should consider; functionality is also what you should keep in mind. Unlike the living room or the bedroom, the kitchen is your important work space. It is the place where you should be able to move around conveniently, and everything should be handy for you to grab. Here are some nifty remodeling ideas that will bring both practicality and charm to your beloved kitchen.
Kitchens used to be work zones that were hidden from guests. Now, a kitchen is the center of a home where guests are invited. Because of this change, the kitchen has to perform even more functions today than it did in years past. It isn't enough for a kitchen to serve basic cooking needs, today's kitchen needs to serve the eye visually, provide adequate room for more than one cook and be an area for visitors to sit and be in the middle of the home. When a guest is invited into the kitchen, it represents the deepest expression of…
A kitchen remodel is the single best way to add value to a home. Unfortunately, it can also rack up a pretty big price tag. However, it is completely possible to shape up your kitchen into a beautiful central area for your living space under $3000. You simply have to budget well, put in your own sweat equity, and make smart material choices.
Besides being an important gathering spot in the home, the kitchen can also be the most trafficked area. U-shaped kitchen plans provide no walk-through path, and so choosing this style of kitchen plan can keep a lot of the traffic from actually entering the work area. This is seen as a plus for many cooks---it keeps accidents to a minimum and allows them to continue working without interruption. Create a U-shaped kitchen remodel that works best for the cook.
Italian kitchen themes are popular because they are charming and functional, and they inspire the desire to cook. With a mix of traditional rustic decor and contemporary design, any kitchen can take on a Tuscan theme that will have you churning out great recipes in no time.
For many, the kitchen is the hub of a home. Whether it's just family or you're entertaining a large group, having a well-functioning kitchen is a great asset to a cook. If you're able to design a kitchen with a luxury budget, amenities are available that will elevate your kitchen and your experience cooking in it. According to the Kitchens.com website, an upscale kitchen remodel will cost approximately $110,000 in 2009. If you're willing to spend that kind of money, get the best of everything.
If you are looking to sell your home, realtors and remodeling magazines suggest that updated bathrooms and kitchens bring a huge return for the cost of renovation. You don't have to spend a lot of money when renovating kitchens and baths. You can do in on the cheap by searching home store clearance sales, surplus stores and salvage yards for appliances, cabinets, sinks, flooring and more.
Learning to remodel kitchen counters can be a sure path to creating counters that are more stylish, more functional or simply change the overall look of a room. They can be used to lighten up a dark kitchen or liven up one that is drab and without color. You can save a great deal of money by learning to do it yourself and still have the high-end touches you prefer with your kitchen counters.
Remodeling your kitchen can be exciting. A new look, feel and function can make the heart of your home even more inviting. Deciding what colors to use often is one of the hardest parts of the process. To get started, consider how the space will be used. Colors play a part in how people feel, so think about the way the kitchen will be used, what kind of reaction you want from guests and about contrasts. Make sure everything flows together well, is pleasing to the eye and functional, and your kitchen remodel will be a success.
It's hard to survive without a kitchen; so, it's important to keep access to the kitchen while remodeling. Get tips for surviving a kitchen remodel from an experienced handyman in this free video on do-it-yourself home repairs.
Kitchen remodeling is a great home improvement investment and can be done on a budget. Update kitchen light fixtures, cabinets and countertops with tips from a professional home repairman in this free video on home improvement.
Galley kitchens typically can be found in apartments, condos, townhouses and smaller homes. In a galley kitchen two counters run parallel to each other with appliances spaced along them. One of the great advantages of a galley kitchen is that a cook can turn from one counter to the other without walking any distance. One distinct disadvantage is the limited floor space makes it difficult for more than one person at a time to use the kitchen. Generally, galley kitchens have no room for a table and chairs and storage space is at a premium. Try these ideas to remodel…
Remodeling your kitchen can be a budget nightmare. There are many ways to cut expenses without cutting quality and style.
You have a low to medium kitchen remodeling budget but you have GREAT taste. Where do you compromise?
Families spend a great deal of time in the kitchen, not only eating meals, but also talking, playing games, and doing home and office work. In most homes, the activities of the entire household revolve around the kitchen. This is why the layout and design of the kitchen is so important.
The kitchen is supposed to be the heart of the home, but what happens when the heart of the home is also the eyesore? You remodel it of course! However, if you have been to the idea center at your local hardware store or looked for idea books at the bookstore, the possibilities are endless and sometimes daunting. Things will go easier if you create your plans yourself, ahead of time and then bring in the professionals to do the dirty work.
A cook or chef will tell you that cooking with the right equipment and space does make a great difference in preparing meals. Unfortunately, many people don't have the luxury of a large kitchen to work in. Cooking in a small kitchen with confined counter space can be frustrating. With some planning and organization, you will find you can do very well without having to remodel your kitchen. Make your kitchen work for you, not the other way around.
Though it may not be the most fun part of a remodeling project, one must consider a kitchen's layout and logistics before embarking in any remodeling. First determine your budget and your goals. Then reearch the latest remodeling trends and technoloogy for kitchen appliances. This will help you determine your budgetary priorities, whether they be in the kitchen floors, appliances, furniture, cabinets, lighting or walls. Pay special attention to your floor plan. Though most rooms in your home have large, wide-open spaces, kitchens tend to be limited spatially, meaning that cabinet space, lighting fixtures and appliances have limited room into…
Sometimes, the hardest part of redecorating is deciding what you want done. Kitchen upgrades not only improve how you feel about your home, they can substantially raise the value of your property. The kitchen is one of the most used rooms in your home and the wear and tear will show over time. You can find great ideas and photos for redecorating your kitchen.
So you want to know how to plan a kitchen remodel on paper. When you know what you want, you can design a kitchen remodel on the back of a napkin, or on architectural blueprints. With a pencil, piece of paper and a ruler, you too can plan your kitchen remodel on paper.
Find out how to prepare a kitchen sink to be remodeled, plus get tips on how to clean rust off of a sink, in this free DIY home improvement video.
Kitchen remodeling can range from a few hundred dollars to many thousands of dollars, but it doesn't have to break the bank. Depending on the amount of remodeling to be done, costs can generally be broken down to the cost of labor, mechanical and fixtures. Put aside some extra money for unexpected costs too. Here are some tips to help you estimate the costs of a kitchen remodeling.
Remodeling a kitchen is a great way to increase the value of your home. The project can range in price from a few hundred dollars if you need to replace an appliance to thousands if you want to modernize outdated countertops, flooring and wall coverings. Following are some steps for remodeling your kitchen.
No matter how well it goes, building or remodeling a kitchen is a tough, disruptive process. But there are things you can do to make it a more pleasant memory.
