USA Home Repair Remodeling

Kitchen Remodeling Lexington KY can be cosmetic or involve changing the layout and utility systems in the space. Generally, it begins with framing changes (moving or adding windows and doors), utilities, and drywall finishing.

Remember storage! A well-designed remodel will ensure ample room for all your cookware, appliances, and supplies.

Cabinets are one of the largest and most expensive elements of kitchen remodeling. New cabinets account for 30% of the total cost of a remodel, so it’s important to carefully consider your options and choose wisely.

There are two primary approaches to cabinetry: refacing and replacement. Refacing refers to covering existing cabinets with a veneer that matches or complements the color of your flooring, countertops and other wood built-ins. This is a more economical approach than replacing the cabinets entirely. It’s also possible to add a custom finish to your cabinets for a completely different look.

A cabinet is a furniture piece that is anchored to the wall and typically contains drawers or doors. It’s most often found in the kitchen, but it can be used in other rooms of the house to store items like utensils, dinnerware and bottled hygienic products. Cabinets are available in a wide range of styles, sizes and finishes.

The cabinetry in your kitchen helps determine how the room functions and looks. Whether you’re planning on installing new custom cabinets or refacing your existing ones, it’s crucial to establish a budget before the project starts. This will help avoid any unexpected costs or delays.

Cabinetry in the kitchen includes base cabinets and upper cabinets. Base cabinets are the most important part of your kitchen and support countertops. They’re usually 24 inches deep and vary in width and height. Upper cabinets, also known as wall cabinets, contrast the base cabinets and hang on the walls.

A corner base cabinet is an angled unit that fits into the space and often includes a special storage feature like lazy Susan shelves or pull-out pantry shelves. A pantry cabinet is a tall cabinet with a cutout to accommodate a slide-in wall oven.

While refacing or painting your existing cabinetry is an option, many homeowners prefer to replace the doors and drawer fronts. This is a faster and more cost-effective approach than replacing the entire cabinet. It’s important to properly measure your cabinets and use a professional when ordering your replacements.

Before your cabinets are installed, you should set up a temporary kitchen in another area of the home. This will save you time and money from having to eat out during the project.

Countertops are a key kitchen remodeling element that can add both function and beauty to the workspace. When choosing a countertop, you can choose between natural stones and manufactured materials that provide a wide range of looks. Aside from aesthetics, other factors to consider include maintenance and durability. Natural stone countertops, like granite and marble, require regular resealing and specialized cleaning care. Concrete, slate, and quartz offer a more durable alternative that can resist heat and stains.

Wood countertops are another popular choice and, when properly sealed, are sanitary for food preparation. They’re also available in a range of colors and can create a natural, traditional look. While wood offers natural beauty, it scratches and dents easily, so it requires regular refinishing to maintain its appearance. Stainless steel countertops are an elegant option that can create a modern, industrial-style kitchen. Despite their high price tag and the need for regular polishing, these countertops are highly scratch-resistant and can withstand heavy use.

Ceramic tile countertops can be designed to mimic the look of granite, marble and other natural stones or can feature a variety of patterns and textures for an artistic statement. The one drawback of tile countertops is that grout lines can be a challenge to keep clean.

Other countertops, such as solid surface and concrete, are durable options that come in a wide array of colors and finishes. They can be formed into unique shapes and even embedded with broken tiles, glass and sea shells. Concrete is especially versatile and fits a variety of kitchen styles, from farmhouse to industrial.

Recycled aluminum counters are a newer option with an eco-friendly design. They’re made from 88%-100% recycled material and look similar to stainless steel but are less expensive and easier to maintain.

You can also customize your countertops by adding a built-in sink or including a backsplash. While backsplashes are primarily for decoration, they’re also effective in preventing water, grease and other messes from damaging walls behind the counters. Including a backsplash can add up to 5% to the total cost of your kitchen remodel, though simple backsplashes are generally less expensive than those that feature intricate designs or unique shapes.

When it comes to kitchen remodeling materials, countertops and cabinets get the most attention. But flooring is just as important and offers a unique opportunity to add style, comfort and durability. It’s not a choice you want to take lightly because you’ll be living with it for a long time.

The flooring you choose should be able to stand up to high traffic, withstand the rigors of daily food prep and cleaning, and look good for the years you’ll use it. It should also be a good fit for your family’s lifestyle and budget.

Depending on your design goals, there’s something out there for every taste and price range. Sheet vinyl and engineered vinyl planks are inexpensive, easy to clean, and come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. Laminates, another popular choice, look like wood and are much easier to install than solid hardwood. Bamboo floors offer a wood-like appearance with a natural grain pattern and are harder than many hardwoods. Concrete floors have gained popularity for their sleek, industrial look. They can be stained or polished to create a variety of styles and are stain-resistant.

Solid hardwood floors are a popular and durable choice, but they’re expensive. Engineered wood feels and looks like solid hardwood but costs less and is easier to install for DIYers. Bamboo and cork are eco-friendly alternatives to solid wood floors that can also be installed as a DIY project.

Tile is a popular choice for its durability, versatility and beauty. Ceramic tile is available in a wide array of colors, shapes and textures to complement any style. Porcelain and natural stone tiles are also water resistant and can look stunning in the right setting.

If you’re going for a rustic, lodge-style look, consider a stone-terrazzo hybrid that incorporates light and dark natural stone in varying tile sizes. Mosaic tile is a trendy option for adding visual interest to the kitchen floor. This bold look can make the room feel brighter and more spacious. It’s an especially good choice if your kitchen doesn’t have a lot of windows for natural light.

One of the most exciting aspects of kitchen remodeling is selecting new appliances. Whether you’re replacing an appliance that is broken or just upgrading to more advanced features, choosing the right refrigerator, dishwasher and cooktop can make all the difference in how your kitchen looks and functions. Choosing the right major appliances means considering your cooking and dining habits, space, layout and other factors such as cost and energy efficiency.

The first step is to establish your budget for the project and compare that against the types of appliances available. You’ll also need to determine the layout of the kitchen and choose between freestanding or built-in models.

Typically, a new kitchen requires at least a refrigerator, oven, stove and dishwasher. You might want to consider a beverage or wine fridge, extra dishwasher, or other specialized appliances as well. It’s important to consider how these appliances fit into your kitchen’s overall design, as they will be a major focal point of the room.

When shopping for appliances, it’s best to begin early in the process of the remodel. The appliances you select will affect all the other components of your kitchen including layout, plumbing, electrical and even countertop cutouts. Choosing a refrigerator with the right dimensions, a dishwasher with enough space for your dishes, and other considerations can help ensure that the other beautiful elements of your new kitchen will work together perfectly.

While brand names and innovative features are appealing, it’s important to remember that the main function of appliances is to make meals for you and your family. When it comes to picking the best appliances for your home, be sure to focus on how you cook and dine. Read reviews and ratings from consumer reports, Wirecutter, and other expert sources to get a better idea of which brands and styles to purchase.

It’s also a good idea to avoid over-customizing your kitchen. While a walk-in wine cellar may be the dream of many homeowners, it can limit future home buyers and prevent your kitchen from appreciating in value. By keeping these tips in mind, you can choose the perfect appliances for your new kitchen and enjoy a beautiful and functional space for years to come.