19

Mar

Planning a DIY Kitchen Renovation? Read This First

New kitchen design trends come out every year. Nothing beats classic designs, but it can be nice to refresh your kitchen’s look once in a while. For example, you can have your old countertop changed into a brand-new one. In that case, you should choose among the best countertop replacement companies near your area.

Renovating your kitchen can be challenging yet fulfilling, especially when you see the finishing results. But simply replacing your old countertop into new quartz kitchen countertops or even hiring granite contractors can be expensive. On the contrary, a little bit of resourcefulness and creativeness can do the trick.

How much do kitchen renovations usually cost?

One of the most popular home improvements a lot of homeowners invest in is renovating the kitchen. However, a kitchen renovation – whether just replacing your old countertop into granite countertops, or a complete makeover – requires careful budgeting on your part.

According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, the average cost of renovating a 210-square foot kitchen can cost around $65,000. While it can take a toll on your budget, having a kitchen renovation can be one of the best decisions you will ever make.

The good news is that you can still be able to do a kitchen renovation. To do that, you can simply follow these steps so you can achieve your dream kitchen eventually.

How to plan for a kitchen renovation

  1. Create a “master plan”.

The first stage is coming up with a comprehensive plan. This includes all the nitty-gritty details of the entire kitchen makeover – from choosing the best quartz kitchen tops and reliable quartz countertop contractors around, down to your refrigerator’s relocation spot.

While replacing some kitchen items may be necessary during the renovation, some can stay as is. For example, keeping your current kitchen walls will save you thousands of dollars from tearing it out as well as messing up your electrical and plumbing systems.

  1. Decide whether to keep your kitchen items or to buy a new one.

It depends on your requirement. For example, you may want to consider changing into engineered stone countertops and replace your current one. Otherwise, you can keep those you can still use, including kitchen appliances, flooring, cabinetry, and lighting fixtures.

  1. Repair or add a creative touch when necessary.

There are some kitchen items that may need replacing – say, an outdated kitchen flooring. But in some cases, you can unleash your creative side. For example, instead of replacing your entire dining table and chair set, you can repaint it with fresher and livelier color. The same can apply when updating your kitchen cabinets and cupboards as well.

Other DIY kitchen renovation tips

Kitchen renovation can be expensive, but there are many ways to save extra cash. One way is to do some things on your own. Of course, with a little help of research and your trusted and knowledgeable friends. Here are some other tips you should consider when doing the renovation yourself:

  1. Set your budget.

Before starting with the project, it is important to know how much you are willing to spend. Consider the kitchen items and fixtures that need to be replaced – say, new granite countertops — as well as those that will only require repairs.

  1. Schedule when you are going to do the renovation.

Scheduling a renovation during the holiday season can be impractical because you will be preparing and cooking a lot during that time. In this case, it is ideal to schedule renovation months before a special event such as Thanksgiving or a birthday party. On the other hand, some homeowners schedule theirs during spring or summertime so they can have the chance to do picnics in their backyard.

  1. Create a makeshift kitchen.

While the renovation is ongoing, it is important to have a temporary kitchen. Relocate your refrigerator or microwave elsewhere that won’t hamper the renovation process. You can also use paper plates or plastic cups and utensils in case the kitchen sink may be inaccessible for a while.

  1. Check whether permits are necessary.

Permits may be necessary if there will be changes on your electrical or plumbing system. These permits may vary from area to area, so it is best to do your research.

Finding a reliable kitchen renovation company

Doing the renovation on your own can save you thousands of dollars and you can do it in your own time. But if you are planning to replace your countertops, it may not be bad to seek professional help from the best quartz countertop contractors in Rockville or elsewhere near your area.

07

Mar

Why Engineered Stones Countertops are Ideal for your Kitchen

Engineered stone countertops are made of crushed stones which are bound together by polymer resin or cement mix. Marble and quartz are the most used stones that produce engineered stones and are bonded together to create non-porous and beautiful engineered stone countertops. Apart from kitchen countertops, the engineered stone can be used for flooring and on walls. The engineered stone is made by forming blocks using machines after which the blocks are made into slabs for countertops or tiles.

Why Engineered Countertops

  • Strong, Durable and Attractive

Engineered kitchen countertops have a consistent look and will not fade for the longest time and have a uniform color making it perfect if you want to match your kitchen colors. The countertop comes in a variety of colors including earth tones colors. Colourants can be added to achieve the desired tone. While the engineered countertop is much cheaper, it has the same qualities as granite or any other slab. Engineered stones are resilient and durable ensuring that they last longer especially in a busy kitchen.

  • Heat Resistant

The engineered stones countertop is heat resistant and won’t crack easily. The engineered kitchen countertop is resistant to your cracks, which makes it ideal for the kitchen. Engineered stone does not accumulate bacteria or mold making more hygienic to use as the kitchen countertop.

  • Easy to Clean

The engineered countertops don’t absorb water or any dirt making it easy to clean. The stone is not susceptible to stains and that makes cleaning the engineered stone easier

  • Hygienic

The engineered countertop is non-porous and will not attract any germs or ide germs in the spaces.

The disadvantage of Engineered Kitchen Countertops

The only con to the Engineered kitchen countertops is, it’s hard to curve.

Steps to follow when maintaining Engineered Kitchen Countertops

  • Engineered countertops require minimal maintenance to keep their look
  • Regularly clean the countertop with warm water and mild soap. The countertop is highly resistant to stains and therefore don’t require much cleaning. Glossy finished surfaces require mild cleaners.
  • Don’t use strong chemicals, to clean the surface. Use the ingredients as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • In case of any stubborn stains, use a mild scouring pad to clean off the stain.
  • While installing the countertops, contact an expert installer to ensure its well done. Ensure that during installation there is expansion and contraction space for the countertop.
  • Scrape off any materials stuff on the countertop with a plastic knife
  • Occasionally polish the surface to give a shiny look
  • Avoid placing hot and very cold items on the countertop, as this will cause damage to the engineered countertop

Whether you choose granite countertops Rockville, quartz countertops or the Engineered stone countertops ensure it serves your purpose. Engineered stone countertops are ideal, especially for a busy kitchen. The countertop doesn’t require much maintenance; therefore if you are looking for simple and elegant, then this will work perfectly for you.