Kitchen remodeling will help you get a newer and more efficient kitchen. However, for the best results, here are 5 things you need to consider.
1. Picking the ideal countertops
Choosing the ideal countertop for the kitchen is not always easy due to the large number of options available. Here are some countertops you can consider for your kitchen mod:
Quartz Countertops: The most common and perhaps the most durable countertop material is quartz. It resembles natural stone and does not need to be sealed once installed. This type of countertop is, however, susceptible to heat and can be expensive to repair once damaged.
Granite, soapstone and marble countertops: Granite, soapstone and marble also give a natural look to your surfaces, but sealing at least once a year is necessary. All these materials have unique designs, patterns and colors that guarantee you will find your preferred style. Soapstone and granite resist wear and tear, while marble withstands heat better. Keep in mind that soapstone can crack and develop a patina after some time.
Laminate countertops: If you have a tight budget, installing laminate or tile countertops may be the best option. These are relatively cheap and are a great choice if you are a DIY enthusiast. Tiles are easily replaced if cracked. Larger tiles can help you minimize grout lines. Laminate and tile countertops are easy to clean, and tiles are not susceptible to scratches, heat and stains. The moisture that collects between the mortar lines can, however, lead to the growth of molds.
Other options include concrete and stainless steel, both of which are ideal for heavy use. A butcher block countertop can give your kitchen a classic look, but it requires frequent oiling and sanding to eliminate scratches. Stainless steel, although expensive and great for enhancing the aesthetics of your kitchen, is prone to dents. Concrete countertops need sealing to keep them from splitting.
2. Types of flooring ideal for your kitchen
Factors such as how often you cook, what your budget is, and your floor plan will influence the type of flooring you choose. Here are some types of land you should consider based on those factors.
Hardwood floors: Hardwood is often used in cases where the kitchen has an open floor plan and where you are looking for a durable flooring material that will not lose its visual appeal after a few years. Hardwood gives the home a higher resale value and the pre-finished type is moisture resistant. Hardwood flooring is the most expensive compared to other flooring options. Exposure to moisture predisposes hardwood to buckling, warping and crowning.
Tile floors: Tile floors keep your kitchen looking clean and elegant as they are easy to clean. They only require regular vacuuming and dusting as long as no spills occur. They require minimal maintenance, and modern technology has made use of designs that imitate natural stone. Porcelain tiles are poor in moisture absorption and do not scratch easily. Although tile is ideal for kitchens with heavy foot traffic, it can crack and chip easily if you drop something heavy.
Vinyl floors: If you intend to change your kitchen on a small budget, the best choice would be vinyl flooring. This type of floor provides cushioning to your feet and is therefore ideal if you spend a lot of time in the kitchen. If this is the feature that appeals most to you, consider choosing cushioned vinyl flooring backed with a layer of foam.
3. Plumbing considerations for your kitchen remodel
Rerouting of pipes and other utilities may be necessary for some Kitchen remodeling projects. A qualified plumber is in the best position to advise you on the best pipe material to use as well as help you reroute utilities. Copper pipes are the choice you need if you are looking for a plumbing option that offers longevity. Old copper pipes can be recycled. However, it is an expensive option and not suitable if you want an environmentally friendly option.
Chlorinated PVC is a plastic pipe product whose composition consists of additional chlorine that provides safe drinking water. This pipe is ideal for DIY-ers as it only requires cutting using a handsaw (or other pipe cutting tool) and then joining together with matching valve fittings with recommended adhesives.
The cross-linked polyethylene, known shortly as PEX is the best for retrofitting as it can extend around the entire kitchen. Its versatility allows it to go around corners and obstructions, which also makes it ideal for briy makers.
4. The best lighting options for your kitchen
Kitchen lighting has a big impact on the atmosphere, the mood of the kitchen and its overall quality. Kitchen lights and fixtures come in various shapes, designs and styles, which can be quite confusing. It is necessary to do research in advance to establish which lighting options will suit your kitchen plan.
Ceiling lights are the most common as well as the most affordable lighting option. Combining these with task lights that give you localized light is recommended. Task lights can be installed on kitchen islands where food preparations are made.
Contemporary pendant lights or recessed lights are ideal if your cabinets are open, while under-cabinet lights provide an awesome lighting effect on your countertops if your cabinets are overhead. For lights that are hard to access, consider investing in longer-lasting bulbs.
Kitchen lighting is not about going overboard with crazy designs and styles but rather playing light into the overall theme of your kitchen. If you need help installing recessed lights or other types of lighting, you should hire a professional electrician.
5. Maximize your storage
It seems that there is never enough space in the kitchen. In fact, most kitchen remodeling projects are undertaken with the goal of maximizing space and helping to downsize the kitchen. Pullout organizers are a common phenomenon in most kitchens. Grouping your tools by task in each pull-out organizer can help maximize efficiency. Installing dividers in the pullouts helps to take care of unruly utensils like spoons and spatulas.
Kitchen corners are often overlooked, which makes them end up as wasted spaces. Hiring a kitchen designer to help you build custom corner cabinets will help you utilize this unused space. Consider hanging baskets that can be used to store small equipment.
Before you start with a kitchen home remodeling project, Visualize what you anticipate as your result, then set a budget. Go for quality materials and consider replacing appliances like kitchen faucets with modern ones.
Author bio:
Amanda Hill is the Marketing Manager at PVC Fittings Online, a leading distributor of PVC pipes, valves, fittings, plumbing supplies and more. For more information, visit our website or call us at (866) 777-7990.
