The Kitchen Blog

Terrazzo Flooring | Cost | Buying Tips | Installation | Maintenance

Ganka — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 12:42:22 +0000

Terrazzo flooring is a conglomeration of stone, marble and glass mixed into a resinous matrix. The terrazzo is poured, left to dry completely and then ground and polished. It is typically seen on walls, stairways and floors. Terrazzo floor can be poured into a designated room and it also comes in tiles.

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This beautiful mixture originated in Italy a long time ago and has gone through enough changes to make it as good a choice now as then.

Benefits of terrazzo flooring

Terrazzo flooring is very strong and easily resists damage. It resists fire and nearly always is non-slip. This is a great choice for a kitchen where wear and tear is common.
One of the significant pluses is that terrazzo floor is very low maintenance. After the designated sealer has been applied and dried, this mosaic floor is also waterproof. Cleaning calls for merely a broom and a swish of a mop.
Versatility is always appealing and terrazzo fits the bill. There are numerous versions of color, texture and finish and designs. Terrazzo flooring gives you the freedom to create intricate and multicolored designs such as graphics and a myriad of geometric shapes. It would be impossible for any two terrazzo floors to look identical.
Terrazzo flooring is especially appealing due to its being “green”. Its material components are all natural, there are no volatile organic compounds (VOC’s) in terrazzo and it has a great deal of recycled material. This will only become more appealing as time goes by.
This product is perfect for people with environmental allergies. Because terrazzo flooring is so hard and dense, no mold or allergens can penetrate it. It is also good for pet owners.

Limitations of terrazzo flooring

Something to keep in mind is that if you have terrazzo flooring in your kitchen and you spend a lot of time on your feet, you might want to lay rugs down in key areas of the room to soften it up for your feet and knees.
Due to the nature of the product, terrazzo flooring is very heavy. It would behoove you to get a professional to assess your home to see if its structure can withstand such substantial flooring.
Temperature can be both a problem and a blessing. During the hot months, terrazzo floor is refreshingly cool. When the weather cools it also holds the temperature. Installing radiant floor heating would make the environment perfect.

Price of terrazzo flooring

Uniqueness usually means higher costs, and this is no exception. If you decide to hire a terrazzo artisan, you will be paying for his skill, attention to detail and creativity. If you are diligent in finding a talented artist, your terrazzo floor will be a showpiece and it will give you a high return should you decide to sell your house.

If you need to stick to a budget and an artist doesn’t fit into it, there are always the less expensive pre-made terrazzo tiles. The one thing you give up is the lack of design choices.

Buying tips for terrazzo flooring

You have likely been thinking often about your new terrazzo floor and you know what you like, but it doesn’t hurt to ask for references and pictures of completed projects. You also might read architecture books and interior design literature to see if anything probes your imagination.

Keep in mind that large designs make your kitchen look more spacious. Your design should keep in tune with the size of the room. On the other hand, a detailed design might get lost in a lofty room.

Terrazzo flooring installation

Installing terrazzo flooring is a serious project. Not only is it labor intensive, it is bulky, heavy and requires skilled professionals to do it properly. Make certain that you check out everything about the process before you sign anything. If you must see more finished products before proceeding, then do so – it is your right and good sense.

Terrazzo flooring maintenance

Make certain that the workmen explain exactly how you are to care for your terrazzo floor.
A standby that always works well is re-sealing. It keeps the pores tightly closed so no liquid can seep through and discolor the terrazzo flooring. Once the sealing is complete, all that you will need to do is sweep when necessary and run a mop over it once.
If you should unfortunately need a repair, consult a professional. This is not for the do-it-yourself method.
If the terrazzo floor is in the kitchen, be aware of spilling acidic foods on the floor. If they are left there for any length of time, the acid in them can etch the floor.

How-To Videos

How to Install a Terrazzo Floor

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Porcelain Flooring | Cost | Buying Tips | Installation | Maintenance

Ganka — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 09:51:37 +0000

Both porcelain and ceramic tile floorings are made from clay. Their difference lies in the fact that porcelain flooring is manipulated more extensively. It is packed more densely and fired in extremely hot kilns. Porcelain flooring is a denser product.

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The many benefits of porcelain flooring

Porcelain tile flooring can be lovely in many rooms, but it is in the kitchen that it is really put to the test. Its density keeps liquid on the surface so it won’t stain, and it resists scratches.
Despite what we know about the fragility of porcelain, it is a practical choice for your floors, as well as being cost-effective. A porcelain floor is easy to clean and it’s hygienic. It is also more chip-resistant than ceramic floor due to the higher density.
A special plus of porcelain flooring is that it can mimic other beautiful options. Wood, glass, metal, marble, slate and granite all can be visually recreated with porcelain at a lower cost, which will keep you within your budget.
There are a wide variety of porcelain floorings available. It comes in many colors, sizes, patterns and finishes. Out of all of the visual options, a porcelain floor can probably be close or just the exact same as you wanted your floor to be.
Porcelain floor is great if you own pets.

Limitations of porcelain flooring

Again, all that density and hardness can be tough on your feet and legs if you stand and cook a lot in your kitchen. That does not mean that porcelain flooring is not a good choice, but you might want to cushion yourself with a variety of rugs placed strategically in high traffic areas.

Porcelain flooring price

As a rule, porcelain floor is a bit more expensive than ceramic floor. You can expect it to be about $3.00/square foot plus installation costs. Different brands of porcelain are superior to others. Look for high quality strength and a reliable manufacturer with the size and design that’s appropriate for your home.

Buying tips for porcelain flooring

A rule of thumb with any floor covering is to buy extra. You never know when you might have an accident that needs repairing. Having porcelain tiles from the same batch will assure you get an identical color and texture.
The PEI rating of porcelain tile flooring is important to note. This refers to the tile’s hardness and durability. In general, PEI III and PEI IV are good for kitchen floors.
You probably are clear about what you want in most aspects of your life. For something unique and very attractive, you could buy different colors and shapes of porcelain tiles. Lighter porcelain tiles will make the kitchen look bigger too.
If your countertops or backsplashes are made of porcelain, you could choose porcelain floor tiles of the same color and pattern. This will bring in a uniform look.
Porcelain flooring also comes in various finishes. Polished porcelain is easier to clean and it looks clean longer than a matte finish. It can, however, be a bit more slippery.
Big porcelain tiles mean that you will need less grout. Grout also comes in a variety of colors and you can choose one that matches your porcelain floor. To keep your grout looking clean and nice, it would be best to buy a darker color.

Porcelain flooring installation

Laying porcelain flooring is really a job for the professional. It is not for a do-it-yourselfer. It’s heavy and awkward, and wrong handling may cause breakage before installation or even after installation. The professional worker will make the surface smooth, flat and packed. He will lay the tiles down, leaving a small, even space between the tiles for the grout. Once each tile is where it ought to be, it is leveled and the spaces are filled with grout. He then will likely apply sealant. It takes a great deal of practice to get those grout lines even.

Arranging the porcelain tiles also takes a professional. By laying the tiles down, he can see how different patterns will look and can then decide where the best place to begin laying the tiles will be.

Porcelain flooring maintenance

Read the literature that you get with your porcelain flooring. It will give you the manufacturer’s maintenance recommendations. And make sure that you follow these instructions to the tee.
With regards to unglazed porcelain tiles, resealing remains a part of the job. It helps in keeping things beautiful and free of detrimental liquids that may get through and damage your porcelain floor.
The same goes for grout. It too needs protection occasionally.
The rest of the time, you just need your broom and mop for when it’s necessary and that’s it. No fancy wax or other products, and especially NO abrasives.
Try hard not to drop heavy items on the porcelain floor. It can lead to cracking, which would be very upsetting.

How to get the best price on a porcelain flooring

BuildDirect and Flooring Select appear to be some of the best places to buy the porcelain flooring from. Besides the best prices, their customer friendly policies make buying from them a pleasure.

How-To Videos

How to Install a Porcelain or Ceramic Tile Floor

How to Repair a Porcelain or Ceramic Tile Floor

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Wood Kitchen Cabinets Review

Ganka — Fri, 26 Feb 2010 09:42:50 +0000

Wood kitchen cabinets should be considered the perfect blend of form and function. Not only do you have the durability and solid construction of wood, but you have its beauty, warmth and elegance as well.

There are many different types of woods to choose from including hard woods such as ash, oak and maple, and softer woods such as walnut and cherry. Each wood type has its pros and cons, including the price that you can expect to pay for it and the best ways to use them. In addition to the woods listed, there are other choices including less common woods such as birch, hickory, pine, beech and the exotics such as mahogany and ebony.

Wood kitchen cabinet costs

While additional features like bins, drawers, baskets, a Lazy Susan or specially ordered hardware types can drive up the cost of your wood kitchen cabinets, some woods just cost more from the start than others. Pine is one of the least expensive wood types in most cases while maple and oak tend to be moderately priced. Walnut and cherry, especially high grade cherry, can be more expensive and the exotic woods such as mahogany and ebony are the most expensive of all.

The fewer blemishes or imperfections that a wood has, the more expensive it will be as well. This is true, even for the lower end woods like pine. A pine cabinet with no blemishes and even color will cost more than one that has knot holes or color variations.

Tips for buying wood kitchen cabinets

Real wood kitchen cabinets are great because they are strong and last for many years, but they also raise the property value of your home. If you have a kitchen that has MDF products such as engineered wood, particle board and fiber board, they typically do not withstand the regular wear and tear in the kitchen.
You must also decide between softwood or hardwood. Typically, hardwoods are preferable for kitchen cupboards and it is advisable that you opt for that. Hardwoods such as walnut, oak, ash, cherry, mahogany and maple offer longevity and durability.
Though custom built wood cabinets may be pricier, they are built to fit into your kitchen. They are unique. On the other hand readymade wood kitchen cabinets may not fit the unique design of your kitchen, more so if you had an odd shaped kitchen.
Another option to consider with your wood kitchen cabinets is ready to assemble. Not only will you save money, you will also save on the shipping and handling fees as well. Wood cabinets that come in pieces rather than already assembled may sustain less damage during transit as well. Moreover, if you are a do-it-yourself type of person, then you will enjoy the installation work. If you are not handy, though, you can have your RTA cabinets installed by professionals and still be ahead.
Choose a wood that suits your taste and style, and one that will allow you to enjoy your kitchen for many years. For a light look, opt for woods like beech, ash, oak, birch, chestnut or maple. For a distinct grain pattern choose woods such as walnut, hickory, oak or ash. Choose woods like cheery or maple if you want a more even structure.
It is advisable that you look at samples before you decide what type of wood to go in for. Some of the chief manufacturers of wood kitchen cabinets are: Kraftmaid, Merillat, Thomasville and Artistokraft.
Woods of different types can mix together beautifully and are often used in combination for decorating effect. You could use a cheaper wood for the main cabinet and then punch up its appearance with accents and other touches of higher end woods.
If your intention is to paint your wood kitchen cabinets as soon as they are installed, then it is perfectly sensible to opt for the lower cost wood varieties rather than the higher end. After all, what is the sense in buying a beautiful cherry cabinet if you are only going to paint it white? If, however you use an expensive wood, use a stain as it will bring out the natural beauty of the wood and will give your kitchen a classic feel and look.

Caring for wood kitchen cabinets

Use a soft cloth, some hot water and a mild soap to clean your wood kitchen cabinetry. However, make sure not to leave any water behind on the wooden surface. If not wiped quickly, over time, too much of water can cause damage to your finish.

At regular intervals and in between washes, it is a good idea to clean your wood kitchen cabinets with a good furniture polish. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or any type of liquids that have acetone on your wood kitchen cabinets. The chemicals present can discolor and even damage your cabinets.

It is recommended that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions (if any) for maintenance and cleaning of your kitchen wood cabinets.

Metal Kitchen Cabinets Review

Ganka — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:59:55 +0000

Metal kitchen cabinets can be one of the most unique and versatile choices that you can make. There are various metals that can be used with stainless steel being one of the most common and most popular. Other metal cabinet options such as copper can be a good choice as well. Cabinets made of metal can be painted to suit the décor of the room and can be great to work with.

The greatest features of metal kitchen cabinets

Some of the best features of metal kitchen cabinets include:

High resistance to corrosion and staining.
Highly durable. Metal kitchen cabinets are typically used in food service and industrial settings because of their durability.
Metal kitchen cabinets are extremely easy to maintain and to clean as well. They are also hygienic because of their non-porous surface, which does not allow bacteria to get deep into it.
Metal kitchen cabinets can be recycled when they have reached the end of their useful life.
Metal cabinets are very modifiable. They can be painted to fit in any type of décor, and can also be modified in other ways as well.
Stainless steel is a very shiny metal that reflects light very well, which can make a kitchen seem brighter and bigger.

Drawbacks of metal kitchen cabinets

There are some drawbacks of metal kitchen cabinets as well, however. These include:

Metal kitchen cabinets can be noisy, especially when coupled with other “noisy” kitchen materials, such as tile or stone floors.
Metal, especially stainless steel cabinets can be cold and industrial in appearance. While pairing them with warmer materials in the room can help, it is important to note that the cabinets are typically the first thing that people notice when they walk in the room.
The shinier the metal choice, the harder they will be to keep looking good; shiny metal kitchen cabinetry will eventually show off every fingerprint, every scratch and every dirt that they get through daily use.
Metal kitchen cabinets can be susceptible to dents and scratches that ruin the finish, over time.

Metal kitchen cabinets cost

Metal kitchen cabinets are rather expensive. Of course, the price depends on several factors, such as cabinet quality, design, thickness of the metal, manufacturer and the size of your kitchen.

Additional features such as drawers, baskets, storage above your stove, a Lazy Susan will end up costing more. Furthermore, hardware options such as knobs, pulls, door handles also affect the price of your metal kitchen cupboards.

Tips for buying metal kitchen cabinets

Stainless steel is the most common and popular metal for kitchen cabinets. Such cabinets are well-suited in a contemporary kitchen due to its industrial and sleek look.
Cabinets made of copper are a good choice for a warmer, cozier feel that is perfect for country and rustic kitchen decors.
Pre-fabricated metal kitchen cabinets are available for purchase as are cabinets manufactured to certain sizes. Another option is custom cabinets. You may find more design choices with the custom variety, but the cost is also higher.
The quality of your cabinets is higher, when the metal is thicker. The highest quality of stainless steel is usually 18 gauge (though 16 gauge is better) and marked as 304. This type of stainless steel has great corrosion and stain resistance features, in addition to minimizing noise.
Many manufacturers sell metal kitchen cabinets with sheet metal that is overlaid on base material. This base material could be particle board, plywood or medium density fiberboard (MDF). While this certainly minimizes the noise, the longevity and durability of the cabinets depend on the quality of material underneath. Moreover, fiberboard and particle board tend to sag, if not supported appropriately. Another point to be noted is that both fiberboard and particle board do not hold screws as tightly as plywood or wood, and this may cause the hinges becoming loose and a big pain to deal with. Fiberboard and particle board also warp and swell, if they get wet. Essentially, plywood or wood base is recommended, though they are more expensive.
Metal kitchen cabinets with satin, matte, or textured with different patterns and grains finish, help in concealing fingerprints and scratches.
Consult with a professional designer during the planning stages as they can be a great resource in helping you fulfill your dream of the perfect kitchen.

Caring for metal kitchen cabinets

Cleaning your metal kitchen cabinets is quite simple. All you need is mild soap and some water. When you finish washing, make sure to rinse and wipe completely dry to get rid of any water stains.

At times, you may need a cleaner of some sort to help get rid of tough grease and grime marks. While all-purpose do a good job, avoid using any abrasive substances as it will scratch the surface. In addition, do not use scrub brushes or steel wool for cleaning your metal kitchen cabinets as these too can damage the cabinets.

Do make sure to check with your installer for specific instructions on your metal cabinets.

Oak Kitchen Cabinets Review

Ganka — Fri, 19 Feb 2010 09:40:50 +0000

Oak is one of the most solid and beautiful of all of the wood cabinet choices, as well as one of the most long-lasting. This is extremely important when it comes to the kitchen, as the cabinets in the kitchen are subjected to extreme conditions such as water and steam, and of course continuous use. If sealed properly, oak kitchen cabinets will withstand all possible conditions, and yet maintain their integrity.

Typically found in two natural colors, a reddish-brown and a very light, almost white color, oak also tends to have a very distinctive grain pattern as well. The red oak cabinets are best used in kitchens that are trying for a warm and cozy feel while the lighter white oak kitchen cabinets are good to make the room appear to be larger and brighter than it actually is.

White oak kitchen cabinets are great for customization. They can be stained to match the interior of any kitchen – from country to traditional and contemporary kitchen styles, white oak cabinets are perfect. Moreover, as kitchen styles change, you can sand and stain your white oak cabinets a different color, giving it a completely different feel.

Due to its availability, oak is less expensive compared to other wood used for kitchen cabinets. In fact, for just under $3,000, you could set up an entire 10 by 10 kitchen. This is rather affordable considering the amount you would have to pay for other types of wood. Oak kitchen cabinets are also extremely popular in the market, mostly this is due to its multiple benefits: sturdiness, versatility, durability and low cost.

Oak kitchen cabinets can last practically forever, so they are a very good investment for your kitchen and your home. The downside to this choice though is the fact that oak is not considered to be a sustainable material and is therefore not a green choice at all. Oak cabinets can be made from reclaimed wood; however they are often created from trees that are cut down. Oak trees take a very long time to grow back so they will not replenish the supplies quickly.

Tips for buying oak kitchen cabinets

Kitchen cupboards of solid oak are recommended because of their durability and style, and also because they will raise the property value of your home. It is to be noted that most MDF products which includes engineered wood, particle board and fiber board that have an oak veneer are not able to withstand the normal kitchen environment easily.
Pre-made oak kitchen cabinets are typically cheaper, however if you have a kitchen that is oddly shaped or a nonstandard size you may be in for trouble. In this case, you may have to go with the additional expense of a custom made oak cabinet set so that they will actually fit into the room correctly, look good and function properly.
In addition to getting the right size for your oak kitchen cabinets, you should also make sure that you get the right features and additions so that your kitchen is not just another room in your home, but one of your favorites. Some of the special touches that you can consider adding to your oak kitchen cabinets include baskets or bins for additional storage and organization, rotating cabinets that allow you quick access to items, and pull out drawers that can more than double your space without taking up floor space. However, these additional features mean that the price of your oak kitchen cabinets will go up.
Another option to consider with your oak kitchen cabinets is ready to assemble. Not only will you save money, you will also save on the shipping and handling fees as well. Oak kitchen cabinets that come in pieces rather than already made may sustain less damage during transit as well. You can save additional money by building and installing the RTA oak cabinets yourself. If you are not handy, though, you can have your cabinets installed by professionals and still be ahead.
Major manufacturers of wood kitchen cabinetry are Thomasville, Kraftmaid, Merillat and Aristokraft.
Make sure to choose oak color that will complement the overall appearance of your kitchen. Before finalizing a color, have a look at samples, to make sure you choose a color that matches your kitchen. Also, keep in mind that oak darkens over time.

Caring for your oak kitchen cabinets

Because it is so durable, you can have oak kitchen cabinets for practically forever. As your tastes and needs change, you can opt to paint or stain the cabinets to fit in with new décor.

You should make sure that you are caring for and cleaning your oak kitchen cabinets properly, including the occasional washing with warm water and mild soap. Otherwise, you can just wipe them off with a damp cloth or with a soft cloth and furniture polish.
Do not use too much of water, and make sure that all water is completely dried off or else it can damage the finish.
Avoid harsh liquids and chemicals while cleaning your oak kitchen cabinets or there could be chances of discoloration.
It is best to follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions when it comes to taking care of your oak kitchen cabinets.

Maple Kitchen Cabinets Review

Ganka — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 15:25:54 +0000

Of all of the woods to choose from, maple remains a very popular choice for kitchen cabinets. Solid and durable, maple is the hardwood that many people turn to not only for its good looks but also for its high resistance to wear and tear. Think of all of the abuse that your kitchen cabinets must endure: hot and steamy conditions, grease, water and constant opening and closing; maple can take everything that you dish out to it.

Characteristics of maple kitchen cabinets

Maple cabinets can be one of the best investments that you can make in your kitchen not only because they will last practically forever, but because they are so versatile. Because maple kitchen cabinets will not wear out before you get sick of your kitchen’s decorating scheme, you can sand them down and repaint or refinish to suit your new look without harming the finish of your cabinets at all.
For something that is lighter than oak, maple is perfect. It gives a feel of brightness and extra spaciousness. Maple tends toward a lighter color and can be almost white in appearance in its natural state. Some maple can be a little darker in appearance and the wood is easy to paint or stain to match any decorating scheme that you choose.
The grains and patterns of maple tend to be more subtle, so painting your maple kitchen cabinetry will not cost you any natural wood appearance.
Like oak, maple is not as expensive as other real wood cabinets. This is mainly due to its availability. Considering its versatility, strength and affordability, you will find that maple kitchen cabinets are a worthwhile investment. In fact, this is one of the reasons that maple kitchen cabinets are so popular.
A typical 10 x 10 kitchen set up with maple cabinets would be around $3,000 or less unless you have to upgrade or opt for additional features.

Buying maple kitchen cabinets – few tips to keep in mind

Solid maple kitchen cabinets are an investment in your home and will increase the property values. Maple veneer kitchen cabinets tend to be of lesser quality and may not last long enough to be considered a bargain at all.
Ready Made vs. Custom Built Cabinets – If your kitchen is oddly shaped or an unusual size, your best and possibly only bet is to go with custom built maple kitchen cabinets. It is important to note that while this may drive the cost up, it will be better than dealing with cabinets that do not fit correctly in the long run.
To save some money on your choice, select ready to assemble maple kitchen cabinets (also known as RTA) instead of pre-made. Not only does this reduce the cost, but it reduces the chance of damage during shipping. Moreover, if you are a do-it-yourself type of person, then you can enjoy the installation work. If you are not handy, though, you can have your cabinets installed by professionals and still be ahead. It must be noted that, in addition to the lower cabinet price of RTA cabinets, their shipping cost will also be lower.
Extra Elements vs. Basic Cabinets – The more additions you make to your maple kitchen cabinets, the more the cost will go up, however if it is worth it to you to have them, they can be considered a good investment. Some options to consider are bins and baskets that make storage and organization much easier and Lazy Susans or carousel cabinets can make it easier to find what you are looking for. (Or to hide the snacks.)
Hardware Options – The hardware you choose for your maple kitchen cupboards will also increase the price that you are paying. The fancier the knobs, pulls or hinges, the more the cost will go up.
Merillat, Aristokraft, Kraftmaid, and Thomasville are some of the well-known manufacturers of wood kitchen cabinets.
Opt for a color that will complement the overall appearance of your kitchen. Look at samples and showrooms before you decide on a color for your kitchen. It should be noted that maple tends to get yellow in time, a buttery, almost pale yellow color, when exposed to direct sunlight. So it is advisable to talk it over with an interior designer when you are looking for maple kitchen cabinets.

Caring for your maple kitchen cabinets

Care for your maple kitchen cabinets correctly and they will last practically forever.

Once a week, you should polish the cabinets with a soft cloth and furniture polish.
As needed, you should wash the maple cabinets with warm water and mild soap; however make sure that you do not overly wet them while doing so.
Avoid using any harsh chemicals on your maple cabinets, especially acetone as it will discolor and cause damage to your cabinets.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on how to care and maintain your maple kitchen cabinets.

Cherry Kitchen Cabinets Review

Ganka — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:41:04 +0000

If there is anything more luxurious to use in your kitchen than cherry kitchen cabinets, you probably could not afford it anyway. It is one of the richest looking of all of the wood choices and is durable despite its semi-soft nature. With proper care and maintenance, your cherry kitchen cabinets will last a long time and will continue to be gorgeous despite the abuse they are going to endure during their lifetime.

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms of the house, and the cabinets will see different types of conditions including steam, heat, grease and water as well as almost constant use. The cabinetry that you choose and install will see cooking, opening and closing and various near disasters and will have to endure these without being destroyed.

Characteristics of cherry kitchen cabinets

Cherry tends to have a more subtle grain with a very smooth, almost silky texture to it.
New cherry kitchen cabinets tend to be a lighter color, almost a light golden color, in fact. This color will darken to the rich, reddish brown that is most often associated with cherry in time, mainly as a result of sunlight exposure. (Think of it as a tan for your cabinets.)
In some cherry woods, there might be streaks of other colors that can range from very light yellow to green and sometimes even pink.
There can also be small blemishes such as small knots and pinholes, however if you opt for a higher grade of wood, you can eliminate the majority of these. It will raise the price of your cherry kitchen cabinets considerably.
Cherry, even at the lower grades, can be an expensive choice but it is a worthwhile investment to your home.

Tips for buying cherry kitchen cabinets

You may paint cherry, however, if you are not going to allow it to remain at its natural color, you might ask yourself if you can justify the additional expense. Also, painting cherry kitchen cabinets hides the natural beauty of the wood.
Cherry kitchen cabinets will darken with time and with exposure to sunlight, so you should plan for this change while considering your color scheme. Be sure to consult with a professional designer when planning your project.
Cherry is a dramatic choice and can look good with many color combinations and other materials, however, black granite countertops paired with cherry cupboards is a timeless classic that will never go out of style.
Beautiful, well-made cherry kitchen cabinets are sturdy and will increase the property value of your home as well. While they are cheaper, the lesser quality cabinets that feature cherry veneer over top of particle board, fiber board or other wood-like products are not as durable and will need to be replaced fairly quickly.
Opting for custom built cherry cabinets may increase the overall cost, but might be necessary if your kitchen is not standard in size or shape.
The price of your cherry kitchen cabinets might be increased by additional features that you might like to have included such as Lazy Susans, bins, baskets or others.
The hardware that you choose for your cherry kitchen cabinets will not only increase their beauty and functionality, but will also influence the overall cost as well.
To save some money on your choice, select ready to assemble cherry cabinets (also known as RTA) instead of pre-assembled. Not only does this reduce the cost, but it reduces the chance of damage during shipping. Moreover, if you are a do-it-yourself type of person, then you can enjoy the installation work. If you are not handy, though, you can have your cabinets installed by professionals and still be ahead. It must be noted that, in addition to the lower cabinet price of RTA cabinets, their shipping cost will also be lower.
Some of the big manufacturers of wooden kitchen cabinets are Kraftmaid, Merillat, Thomasville and Aristokraft.

Caring for your cherry kitchen cabinets

Care for your cherry kitchen cabinets correctly and they will last practically forever.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions properly.
Wash your cherry kitchen cabinets with a soft cloth, mild soap and warm water but make sure that you do not soak them and dry thoroughly.
Between washings, use a mild furniture polish to keep your cherry cabinets gleaming like brand new.
Do not use any abrasive cleaning agents, especially those that contain acetone as it will discolor and damage your cherry kitchen cabinets.

Kitchen Design Software – Plan3D Online Kitchen Planner

Ganka — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 09:42:51 +0000

A remodeled kitchen can add tremendous value to your home — not to mention providing you and your family with a great gathering place.

If you have a kitchen design project in mind, plan3D will help you visualize it quickly in realistic 3D. Plan3D is a new generation of 3D software that gives you a real-time cinematic kitchen design. This kitchen design software automatically creates blueprints with dimensions for you – as well as elevations and overheads.

Before you purchase your cabinets, flooring or whatever else, see it in vivid 3D format, so that you know how it will look and feel before you waste time and money. Whatever your kitchen plans are, you can make them better with plan3D.

The online kitchen planner includes all the tools you need to design your kitchen. In addition, you don’t need any special training to put this great tool to use for yourself. Just add cabinets, dishwashers, countertops, cook tops and refrigerators with a few clicks of the mouse and rearrange them until you get exactly what you want. Choose from hundreds of wood finishes, tiles, Formicas, linoleums, paints, wallpapers, and trims to get a look that is just right. Drag and drop any image directly onto any surface in your plan. You get over 5,000 high-quality 3D furniture, appliances, countertops, sinks and other home-related design objects that you can use in your projects and view from any angle.

Everything can be scaled to the size you need. See your kitchen with every size refrigerators, stoves, cook tops, microwaves, freezers and other appliances.

You also get many textures that you can apply to furniture, walls, appliances, floors etc. Textures are images like fabrics, bricks, cement, wood, tiles, and so on.

Using plan3D kitchen design software you can work in different views at the same time. Whatever you do in one view affects the others. You get complete control of every surface in your interior design projects. Whether it’s a kitchen or any other room, you control the type of flooring, wall paint, furniture, artwork, windows, doors, and almost anything else you imagine. See, for example, how lights and shadows affect furniture and window placements.

You can print or export your results with detailed dimensions to emails and other programs. Thus, you could discuss them with architects, contractors or interior designers, which results in hours of saved time and reduced fees.

There is however, one drawback with regards to this online kitchen design program – it is not compatible with Linux or Macintosh Operating Systems.

Click here to learn more about plan3D kitchen design software. Your subscription to plan3D includes kitchen design and all of the following built into one, easy to use tool for one price:

Home design
Interior design
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Travertine Flooring | Cost | Buying Tips | Installation | Maintenance

Ganka — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 09:59:07 +0000

As you scan the various possibilities for your kitchen flooring, and your eyes rest on a matte surfaced natural stone with conflicting color shades, you are looking at travertine stone. Travertine flooring appeals to many modern homeowners due to its unique appearance that stands out from other natural stones.

Travertine is commonly found in Turkey, Italy, Mexico and Peru. This stone forms from geothermal springs. In its natural form, often algae, macrophytes, and other organisms can be found living on the service, which is what also causes the holes or “porosity” of the rock (don’t worry, if you’re not a fan of the “hole”-like appearance, installers will often fill these with grout. You will find travertine in “filled” and “unfilled” forms).

Advantages of travertine flooring

Travertine is a sedimentary rock by nature and has been formed by years of deposition. Therefore travertine flooring is extremely tough, and can last for generations even under rugged and moist conditions such as those in kitchens.
Travertine flooring comes in various earthy colors that include beige, walnut, gold, cream and ivory, and can give your kitchen a classy look. These natural colors are the result of the addition of various minerals during its formation. Red travertine is due to the iron content and can give your kitchen floor an exclusive look.
Due to the inconsistencies in coloring and texture, every travertine floor looks different. Travertine is nature’s work of art, and will add value to your home.

Disadvantages of travertine flooring

Travertine flooring, though comfortable during summers, can get uncomfortably cold during winters. Under floor heating systems could keep the floor at a soothing temperature during winters.
Travertine flooring, being hard, does not absorb impact of walking around during long cooking hours and can tend to get uncomfortable. A few floor rugs placed at certain areas such as around sinks and countertops could give a more comfortable working experience.

Cost of travertine flooring

It would cost you anything from $2 to $3 or more to buy travertine floor tiles. Installation charges would add to the total cost. Every tile contractor sets a different price depending on where the stone was imported from. Larger and thicker tiles would obviously cost more. The richer the color variations, the higher would the cost be. Remember that your cost would also depend on the total area of your kitchen floor.

Good grade travertine flooring is always worth the investment, since apart from serving you for many years it will give your kitchen a richer feel.

Tips for buying travertine floor tiles

Since travertine could break during installation and later, it is recommended to buy a few extra boxes of tiles. Tiles that are bought separately at a later time could look out of place and will definitely be more expensive to buy.
Travertine can come filled or unfilled. Some prefer it unfilled as it looks rustic and distinct. However, filled travertine flooring, even though on the expensive side, will require less maintenance than unfilled one.
You will also have to decide on whether you want your travertine flooring polished or honed; brushed or tumbled. Polished or honed travertine exudes a modern look, whereas brushed or tumbled one gives a more rugged appearance. While polished travertine is easier to clean, bear in mind that a polished floor can be very slippery.
Choose travertine floor tiles in keeping with the type of tiling used on your countertops and backsplashes. Your travertine floor tiles must also blend with the rest of your kitchen décor. If you cannot find the same type of tiles, you can buy tiles with similar shades that complement each other and bring in a uniform look.
If your kitchen is small, you can give it a spacious look by installing lighter and larger travertine floor tiles. This would also mean less grouting and more hygiene.

Installation of travertine flooring

Besides proper preparation of the surface, travertine flooring also requires careful sealing, and therefore doing it all by yourself could lead to a lot of breaking and a shabby finish. For travertine to look its best, it needs to be installed by a professional installer.

Along with proper fixing of the tiles, an experienced and licensed contractor will also take care of the aesthetics. They know how to make the required markings and run the travertine floor tiles along walls and corners. They also know how to use tiles from different boxes, rather than just from one box, to prevent color climaxing in a particular place. After aligning and leveling the tiles with minimum gaps in between, a professional installer will fill in the grout and apply a sealant to the entire travertine surface.

Maintenance of travertine flooring

In order to keep your travertine flooring in good condition, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions provided on the box.
With time, the sealant and grout can get eroded, leaving your travertine flooring vulnerable to seepage and discoloration. You would therefore have to redo the grouting and sealing every once in a while to protect your travertine tiles.
Citric juices and corrosive cleaning agents must be avoided as they can eat into the sealing and grout lines.
Never scrub your travertine tile flooring. Gentle sweeping or vacuuming followed by damp mopping is all that is required to keep it clean.

How to get the best price on a travertine flooring

Amazon and BuildDirect appear to be some of the best places to buy the travertine flooring from. Besides the best prices, their customer friendly policies make buying from them a pleasure.

Related links:

Granite Flooring | Cost | Buying Tips | Installation | Maintenance

Ganka — Fri, 15 Jan 2010 09:58:48 +0000

If you are looking for natural stone flooring that is harder and more durable than marble, granite flooring is the one to go in for.

Advantages of granite flooring

Granite is very hard as it is formed when volcanic magma solidifies naturally. Therefore it is also highly durable and best suited for areas such as kitchen floors, where there is high action and humidity.
Granite flooring is easy to maintain, and with a little maintenance will last till the next generation.
Granite is not as porous as marble and other natural stones. Hence it does not get corroded, stained or scratched easily. It can also withstand high kitchen temperatures and does not get cracked. If sealed properly, granite does not require resealing as often as other natural stones.
Granite flooring is usually dark colored, and therefore looks grand. It can therefore change the ambience of your home and fetch a higher resale value.
Since the colors and patterns on granite floor tiles are formed naturally, every granite piece will look different and yet blend so well with other pieces, that together they can increase the aesthetics of your kitchen floor. Also the color variations are so many that granite floor tiles can fit into just any interior design style.
Due to its almost non porous surface, granite flooring does not accumulate bacteria, mold and allergens, thus keeping your kitchen in top hygienic condition.
In order to further blend with your kitchen interior design and furnishings, granite tile flooring comes in various man made finishes. You can have a high gloss finish, in which the granite crystals can be clearly seen, or you can go in for a matte finish, which is also known as the honed finish. A satin finish or leather finish is an intermediate between high gloss and honed finish. Then there is also the flamed and brushed finish.

Disadvantages of granite flooring

Granite flooring gets cold and uncomfortable during winter. This limitation can be dealt with by using modern home heating systems.
Due to the hardness of granite flooring, it does not absorb the impact of walking, like wood. Therefore standing for long hours in the kitchen can be rather uncomfortable. Rugs can be placed on these action areas, especially around countertops and sinks, in order to dampen the impact and provide comfort to the soles of feet and joints.

Cost of granite flooring

Granite flooring comes in the price range of $3 to $4 plus for a square foot. You will have to pay separately for installation. There are certain factors upon which the price depends, such as the manufacturing company and the country from which it originates. Other obvious factors include size of the tiles, thickness, color, natural patterns and the square footage of your kitchen floor.

Granite flooring could be an expensive deal. However it is a onetime investment that can last a lifetime.

Tips for buying granite floor tiles

It’s a good idea to purchase some extra boxes of tiles for replacing broken tiles in the future. You may never find the same design and pattern at a later time. Even if you do, they may be comparatively expensive.
Good grade granite flooring is beveled and calibrated at the workshop to give it a sophisticated and elegant look.
If you have installed a granite countertop or a granite backsplash in your kitchen, you can choose the same type of granite floor tile to maintain uniformity.
No matter how beautiful your granite floor tiles may be, if you do not match them well with the rest of your kitchen interior design, they may look odd. An experienced interior designer can use granite pieces of different shapes and colors to form a unique pattern that stands out.
You can also use the color and size of your granite floor tiles to give your kitchen a spacious look. For this you will have to choose a lighter color shade and a tile size that is slightly larger.
If you ever go in for the polished finish, you must understand that a wet floor may lead to accidents due to slipping, especially if you have young children around the house. If you are concerned about this, you can always go in for honed finished granite flooring.
If you want to reduce the seams and grout lines, you should go in for tiles of a larger size. This will also make the granite floor easier to clean.

Installation of granite flooring

Installing granite flooring is a lot of hard and dirty work. As a do-it-yourself project, it may take a long time and not bring in the best results. Therefore let a professional installer do the job for you. Professionals will not only do the job accurately, they also know how many tiles will be required and how to fit the tiles along walls and cabinets in an aesthetic manner. They know how to prepare the floor surface with the right underlayment in order to keep the tiles leveled and aligned. Since your granite flooring will represent your style for a long time, it is best to let a skilled person do the job.

A skilled person knows how to make the required markings and arrange the various patterned tiles uniformly. By using pallets from different boxes rather than from one box, an experienced installer can avoid odd spots in the granite flooring.

Maintenance of granite flooring

The most relevant maintenance instructions will be provided by the manufacturer. So you must follow those instructions.
Over the years, your granite flooring may have to endure spillage of beverages and food products. This could lead to staining. In addition, corrosive cleaning liquids may dissolve the grout lines, making them look dark and prominent. You therefore may have to arrange for regular resealing, depending on the level of work conducted.
As a daily cleaning measure you may sweep the granite floor or vacuum clean it. Thereafter using a damp soapy mop will be sufficient. Never use phenyls or corrosive cleaning agents. They may eat into the sealant and expose grout lines.
Although granite is very solid, do not take any chances. If at all there is a spillage of acidic organic liquids such as lemon juice, vinegar or tomato juice, wipe it off immediately to prevent etching.

How to get the best price on a granite flooring

Amazon and BuildDirect appear to be some of the best places to buy the granite flooring from. Besides the best prices, their customer friendly policies make buying from them a pleasure.

Related links: