tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76059879059355755252024-03-12T21:03:37.700-07:00Kitchen Cabinet IdeasKitchen Cabinet Ideas<a href="http://kitchencabinetideas.blogspot.com">kitchen cabinet ideas.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-38017906387569294322008-11-04T19:55:00.000-08:002008-11-04T21:25:17.295-08:00How to Install Door Knobs and Door Pulls To Your Kitchen CabinetThere are quite a number of places you can purchase your <a href="http://locatereviews.com/2087237741">door knobs and door pulls</a> from the internet and usually it is quite easy to choose. Changing your kitchen door knobs and door pull for your existing kitchen cabinet or for your newly installed kitchen it is not a very difficult task. I have come up with a just a few simple steps to guide you through the whole process and to achieve flawless results on every door and drawer.<br />• Installing cabinet door knobs and pull is a relatively simple process. All you need are some tools and some patience, and you can transform your kitchen cabinets from functional to fabulous. You will need:<br />1. a drill with a 3/16” drill bit (in most cases)<br />2. leveler<br />3. marker<br />4. masking tape<br />5. A nail or center punch for making an impression to help you to drill accurately.<br />6. Phillips screwdriver or straight head, depending on the type of screws you are using.<br />• Installing Knobs are easier than handles because they only require one screw instead of two. For the easiest type of installation application, look for knobs that are already pre-attached with screws.<br /><br />• If you are planning to replace cabinet handles or pulls, you must make sure that your new knobs and pulls has the same drill centers as your existing model. Otherwise, you have to either choose a hardware that will be able to cover your existing hole (some come with backplate) or you have patched it up yourself.<br /><br />• To determine the drill center of your old <a href="http://locatereviews.com/2087237741">cabinet hardware</a>, measure the distance between the two drill holes (to get accurate measurement reading, uninstall one of your old hardware). Before you start drilling, hold your new hardware against the marked door or drawer front to make sure that the new knobs or pull screws position are align.<br /><br />• In order to prevent splitting of your solid wood cabinetry and drawers, remember install all cabinet hardware more than 1” from the cabinet’s edge.<br /><br />• For contemporary flat panel doors, knobs should be installed 1-1/2”-2” from the open corner of the cabinet.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZplFXDabZ9XFp1D8HwgBAZ7Rv1Aw1UMIym2Pim_PhTKtATNw-Bn59hbJgpwCa9fLMSslmn_YnwkDD0JCVF5xl8BxqhCLSWVItm_hPkIa7dRN5TsEMxlH_OULoCFKXaiMc_oXnqp3ZwdU/s1600-h/Door+knobs.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZplFXDabZ9XFp1D8HwgBAZ7Rv1Aw1UMIym2Pim_PhTKtATNw-Bn59hbJgpwCa9fLMSslmn_YnwkDD0JCVF5xl8BxqhCLSWVItm_hPkIa7dRN5TsEMxlH_OULoCFKXaiMc_oXnqp3ZwdU/s320/Door+knobs.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265032315017230706" /></a><br />• For contemporary flat panel doors, horizontal pulls should be installed 2”-4” from the bottom of the cabinet and 2” from the open edge of the cabinet.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGOwRdU4vM0CBwkshvYjHDal1JbtVd7BLltGXBiMnzobMxR38Is-vTmo7w2puNkRcJjwKOJJfHFykb25H7g1UCoOMtZiiWRNTvIgSdkUGfDmjXTpwTw245HTBuUkaC9hNT2stka0C_dE4/s1600-h/Door+Pull.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGOwRdU4vM0CBwkshvYjHDal1JbtVd7BLltGXBiMnzobMxR38Is-vTmo7w2puNkRcJjwKOJJfHFykb25H7g1UCoOMtZiiWRNTvIgSdkUGfDmjXTpwTw245HTBuUkaC9hNT2stka0C_dE4/s320/Door+Pull.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265018958547589570" /></a><br />• You might required different length of screws for your kitchen cabinet doors and drawers so make sure you check it before ordering your new hardware. If cabinet doors thickness is ¾” , which will accommodate the hardware’s standard 1” screw. Drawers with applied faces, however, may be thicker, and will likely require longer screws. If you are not sure you can always request for a longer screws and cut it yourself (you must chamfer the screws tip with a grinder after you cut it).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZ-gFxH4xFUGbkjdggnaqjggVpY2qSqfku4Lnf_SwvK7hO8YMhVuYf9WfH5blXAU2-6klwh4ZDJngNtr6bPUnirNQPLBhLXALu5UHkAAKLTrAQcd6A6-Bjc9T7ArDenOFLSc7tv-IWJg/s1600-h/Screw+Chamfer.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 278px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDZ-gFxH4xFUGbkjdggnaqjggVpY2qSqfku4Lnf_SwvK7hO8YMhVuYf9WfH5blXAU2-6klwh4ZDJngNtr6bPUnirNQPLBhLXALu5UHkAAKLTrAQcd6A6-Bjc9T7ArDenOFLSc7tv-IWJg/s320/Screw+Chamfer.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5265036165680202962" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-81690453048400155432008-11-03T22:25:00.000-08:002008-11-03T22:43:07.350-08:00Cork Flooring for Your KitchenCork has everything going for it. It is eco-friendly and non-slip. It allows a floor<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4x-i6VqizA7vrRPtm0StbpSANDKyINOX3mDeLh03gPISG7ILQ5I6XE6SOUkC96CE4PeP8YRHAvxsat_HhgBQ1BnzQZ5yeWqkV1btGEgwSlyS28DoGaIf5Iaq1rXVKyfkM-kwKqzSI_k/s1600-h/Cork+flooring.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 178px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP4x-i6VqizA7vrRPtm0StbpSANDKyINOX3mDeLh03gPISG7ILQ5I6XE6SOUkC96CE4PeP8YRHAvxsat_HhgBQ1BnzQZ5yeWqkV1btGEgwSlyS28DoGaIf5Iaq1rXVKyfkM-kwKqzSI_k/s200/Cork+flooring.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264686367774323218" /></a> to ‘breathe’ and doesn’t develop mould if it gets damp. It is also a very good sound and heat insulator. If you drop a dish on it, the dish will not break, but will leave a small dent. Within a few hours the dent vanishes due to its incredible resiliency. Cork is something worth bearing in mind if you live in an upper-floor apartment. Most importantly, following the revival of seventies style, cork tiles are now firmly back in fashion.<br /><br />Available in the tile or plank form, cork is fairly straight forward to lay. It can be easily cut and glued on top of hardboard or plywood, but make sure the surface beneath coat bare tiles with three or four coat of sealant to keep them looking their best and to give extra water-resistance. To maintain your green credentials, stick to deep brown but, if you are not into the natural look, colored cork tiles are now also easy to find. <br /><br />Cork flooring is also wonderful for homes with family members with allergies. It is hypoallergenic and does not absorb dust or mites, letting you mop the floor clean to remove the allergens. This makes it an ideal flooring for people with allergies, as the dust will not cause them problems.<br /><br />Cork flooring is great for any kitchen because of the multitude of design choices that your can choose from. Simple, country design blends just as easily as sleek, modern design does. The wide array of colors and shades of light and dark really open up all avenues for decorating. You can get more advice and quote on cork flooring from your <a href="http://www.dpbolvw.net/click-3175374-10362932" target="_blank" onmouseover="window.status='http://www.reliableremodeler.com/partners/';return true;" onmouseout="window.status=' ';return true;">local contractor.</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-53770089451376808282008-11-03T21:38:00.000-08:002008-11-04T17:53:33.995-08:00Rubber Flooring For Your KitchenRubber floors have become increasingly popular over the past few years. Synthetic<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPcNdEsmQphD3v-G10BTUMI4wwRZYDdbPgOVgL2JLJJVhZFCHk_TfkPZQfXjem2ZZz7VSt2BYv-uifer-AOn3tbndvpbIdU87L6Pe7vr39-z7YXEDlO60Prutd1AwEC71vbOTgGbGZP84/s1600-h/Rubber+flooring.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPcNdEsmQphD3v-G10BTUMI4wwRZYDdbPgOVgL2JLJJVhZFCHk_TfkPZQfXjem2ZZz7VSt2BYv-uifer-AOn3tbndvpbIdU87L6Pe7vr39-z7YXEDlO60Prutd1AwEC71vbOTgGbGZP84/s200/Rubber+flooring.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264689606111871842" /></a> rubber is available in a fantastic range of colors and textures and flexible rubber tiles. Rubber flooring is its cushioning effect which dissipates impact energy and thus reduces strain on joints and muscles. This then helps to provide comfort underfoot and <b>prevent fatigue</b>. This makes it an ideal flooring for situations where people will be standing for long periods. This cushioning comes from rubber’s highly-elastic polymer chains arranged in a unique cross-linked network, which enables them to act like miniature springs beneath your feet and gives rubber some of its great resilience under heavy weights. <br /><br />Another advantage of a rubber flooring is <b>hygienic and safe</b>. With the smoother surface it does not easily harbor pet hairs, dust mites and other allergens. Rubber flooring also give extremely high surface traction, making rubber flooring an ideal anti-slip floor covering in both work and home environments.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiQ-8fY7I1mtS3hx-pjYkKYfyTEjxhkSaX5rXPBxJ_6P7kMCFi3xzbcOzBjMaV1ujzF5gBIsN5HOUd4IKgA9BFbMDDig3wfLh5Sm5cMS8RTyjDBn0PjZgmwB6tRXyiDc7gavyKNacSrY/s1600-h/Dalsouple+rubber+flooring.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQiQ-8fY7I1mtS3hx-pjYkKYfyTEjxhkSaX5rXPBxJ_6P7kMCFi3xzbcOzBjMaV1ujzF5gBIsN5HOUd4IKgA9BFbMDDig3wfLh5Sm5cMS8RTyjDBn0PjZgmwB6tRXyiDc7gavyKNacSrY/s200/Dalsouple+rubber+flooring.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264985231390134658" /></a>To lay rubber flooring first you need to make sure the floor beneath is dry and flat. Once a tiled rubber floor has been finished and sealed with a top coat of matt or gloss sealer, it only needs a wipe with soapy water to keep it clean. While a mat finish looks more sophisticated and modern, bar in mind that it will show the dirt more readily. Rubber, particularly if it’s a light color can stain. Poured rubber floors have a more durable and uniform finish but installation can be difficult and the costs are higher.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-43556512600975235892008-11-02T05:33:00.000-08:002008-11-03T19:55:47.462-08:00Vinyl Flooring For Your KitchenIn contrast to Lino, Vinyl is completely synthetic but it is also highly practical,<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4G2Fd39DX3eQYI1L6wQBX6ZU6Ih9YWR-Sr4OObhUj85ZD6FsflSGzikMEfE5frOGZ2I2H3Sp1EDYVkzb5I4EMpM816ozU3a0rsPbhoJPZFpCWAKZnUJHq26EECd0hVbC1joBP6_aJUww/s1600-h/vinyl+flooring.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 154px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4G2Fd39DX3eQYI1L6wQBX6ZU6Ih9YWR-Sr4OObhUj85ZD6FsflSGzikMEfE5frOGZ2I2H3Sp1EDYVkzb5I4EMpM816ozU3a0rsPbhoJPZFpCWAKZnUJHq26EECd0hVbC1joBP6_aJUww/s200/vinyl+flooring.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264645692469155458" /></a> particularly I the kitchen. It is flexible, waterproof, and reasonable affordable and easy to keep clean. It also comes in a host of colors and patterns. The most popular contemporary vinyl are those which mimic natural flooring materials – wood, stone, marble, for example or even glass and steel. These can be expensive but need no sealers and little upkeep, so after cost are low. Vinyl does not wear particularly well, however and can be damaged by heels or heavy item drag on the surface.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Durability & Life Expectancy</span><br />A properly installed and maintained, high quality vinyl floor can last 20 to 30 years. Recent improvements in wear layers have enhanced vinyl's resistance to stains, scratches, moisture and fading. Because the 12' width allows for fewer or even no seams, vinyl floors reduce or eliminate places where dirt or moisture can accumulate. Vinyl's surface is waterproof for worry-free living, even when spills are not wiped up immediately. Because of all of these benefits, vinyl sheet is one of the best choices for high traffic areas, or households with active children or pets. You can get a reliable flooring contractor <a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3175374-10362932" target="_blank" onmouseover="window.status='http://www.reliableremodeler.com/partners/';return true;" onmouseout="window.status=' ';return true;">here.</a> <br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Keep in mind:</span><br /> * Thinner vinyl is more susceptible to gouging and other durability problems.<br /> * Thicker vinyl is a better choice for performance in high-traffic areas.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Typical Warranties</span><br />Five to 20 year range, depending on quality, against rips tear, gouges and stains. Better quality floors carry a lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects and wear-through. Lower end products may warrant for fewer years and/or just certain aspects. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Care & Maintenance</span><br />The original and still the best, easy care resilient flooring! Vinyl never needs waxing, buffing or polishing. Simply sweep as needed and mop occasionally with a vinyl floor cleaner. Liquids pool on the surface, making clean-up easy. Because vinyl is waterproof and stain resistant, clean-ups can wait until you're ready to mop them up.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-66182927390414080782008-11-02T05:27:00.000-08:002008-11-03T19:56:51.907-08:00Linoleum Flooring for KitchenMade of powdered cork and linseed oil, Lino is an entirely natural product that improves with age. It is anti-static and anti-bacterial - hence it is use in<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5LuGKVhEfNDflrGyrC8NkChE9WgSxP1sDJHaWS2knxnKDZv6N_C08hw6cyjV3b_Y9QAKxq7ctvdhQOvDO4tAFLD88amrMBytGfsf_P4v4RaqUEyNQ1sPCZSEb4nn7fkjXP30TlSBS4I/s1600-h/Linoleum+flooring.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT5LuGKVhEfNDflrGyrC8NkChE9WgSxP1sDJHaWS2knxnKDZv6N_C08hw6cyjV3b_Y9QAKxq7ctvdhQOvDO4tAFLD88amrMBytGfsf_P4v4RaqUEyNQ1sPCZSEb4nn7fkjXP30TlSBS4I/s200/Linoleum+flooring.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264646303230719810" /></a> hospital corridors. While colors for Lino used to be fairly limited, there is a wide choice today thanks to huge advances in its production. You can choose from hundreds of tones and finishes and ca also find patterned Lino or get a design created specially for you, though this will be expensive. Available in sheet or in tile form, Lino can be laid by an amateur but you must make sure that your sub-floor is in good condition because Lino can be damaged by damp. If you have chosen a design with complex inlaid patterns, however an <a href="http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-3175374-10362932" target="_blank" onmouseover="window.status='http://www.reliableremodeler.com/partners/';return true;" onmouseout="window.status=' ';return true;">expert</a> should be called in to lay it.<br /><br /><b>Durability & Life Expectancy</b><br />Linoleum can last more than 40 years if installed and maintained correctly. Proper maintenance includes polishing your floor. Linoleum with a permanently bonded, high performance coating will resist stains, scratches and clean as easily as a vinyl sheet floor. If the linoleum does not have this manufacturer’s protection, it will need a regular maintenance program that includes polishing, stripping and reapplying of polish to protect the floor’s surface.<br /><br />One of linoleum's most distinctive qualities is that the entire thickness of the wear layer (everything except the jute backing) is homogeneous. This means the color and pattern extend throughout the entire floor surface. So, if linoleum wears down with use, or is chipped or gouged, the gorgeous colors and pattern will still remain. That said, linoleum is very resistant to gouging and scratching, and stands up to heavy traffic. That's why linoleum is as popular in non-residential buildings as it is in today's home. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Keep In Mind:</span><br /> * Linoleum’s natural ingredients are susceptible to damage if not protected by either a manufacturer’s bonded topcoat, or polish applied after installation.<br /> * Like hardwood, linoleum will suffer permanent damage if it is exposed to standing water, continuous moisture, or a moist subfloor.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Care & Maintenance</span><br />Linoleum should be swept regularly to remove dirt, and mopped as needed with a neutral pH floor cleaner recommended by the manufacturer. Some types of household cleaners will damage linoleum, so it's imperative to use a cleaner recommended specifically for linoleum flooring.<br /><br />Polished linoleum floors need more maintenance than floors that have a manufacturer’s bonded protective coating. Maintenance includes occasional stripping and repolishing—multiple times per year in high traffic rooms---once every other year in low traffic rooms. You’ll know when it’s time to polish your floor when it begins to look dull, even after mopping.<br /><br />Apply the polish recommended by the manufacturer. You'll know it's time to polish your floor when it begins to look dull, even after mopping. Floors in high-traffic rooms might need polishing twice a year; low-traffic rooms might need polish once a year or every other year. Old polish layers need to be stripped before new polish is applied because the old polish loses its protective qualities.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Keep In Mind:</span><br /> * Although a manufacturer’s bonded coating and/or your own polishing protects the floor’s surface, never use a harsh alkalis or high pH products such as ammonia to clean linoleum.<br /> * Natural linoleum needs to be protected by polish. The polish needs to be stripped and reapplied over the lifetime of the floor.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-9220408403235582912008-10-31T05:26:00.000-07:002008-11-03T20:08:51.280-08:00Concrete and Composite Floors for Your KitchenAmalgams, such as concrete and terrazzo, used to be the stuff of commercial interiors but increasingly we are seeing them brought into the home environment. Very hardwearing and available in a number of finishes these once-industrial materials are perfect for the modern kitchen floor.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Concrete</span><br />Concrete is the ultimate utilitarian kitchen floor. A blend of cement, aggregate and<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghb7Mxn8bQmEg7iz51t9q9Xi4etD9t6F_7QVJ9ylGfNKrg7XWZlBEs8dyoQWVhrLpK1xjZ1QT6A-eKWWnftlQJoSnseQ-Uh2-uRWf2XQ9kTyZ_O6yc4g5nPALgeYvEBMC-ch3owuwNtAw/s1600-h/concrete+kitchen+flooring+2.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghb7Mxn8bQmEg7iz51t9q9Xi4etD9t6F_7QVJ9ylGfNKrg7XWZlBEs8dyoQWVhrLpK1xjZ1QT6A-eKWWnftlQJoSnseQ-Uh2-uRWf2XQ9kTyZ_O6yc4g5nPALgeYvEBMC-ch3owuwNtAw/s200/concrete+kitchen+flooring+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264648423353158178" /></a> sand, it can be made in variety of textures and colors and can be polished, ground and waxed to become a beautiful smooth and glossy surface. Concrete is available in slabs or tiles but for best results, have it expertly laid in situ to give a smooth and even finish – though you will pay for the privilege. It is a very heavy material so if you want to use it on an upper floor gets professional advice. Concrete will need sealing to give a hard and high-gloss finish but once that is done, you will have a floor that is sleek, durable and extremely low maintenance. Though a staple of the contemporary and industrial loft look, a concrete floor is neutral enough to work just as well in a more traditional home and you can always stud it with a border pattern of pebbles for a rustic Mediterranean effect.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Terrazzo</span><br />A mix of marble or granite chippings with concrete or cement, terrazzo works <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_sxxTd5UzykB2dy1RF1dEosjZASq1gN0jDWOymyzdwRUxHMbA1etdesvkTcsYO_Mqe0bv_PmmIaeGRWfz1_9IFizJ1Psb_ypCOOwEWhqToHKjS3eTO5A8ceDUOgOJ7f37M4dwM_RNA0/s1600-h/Terrazzo+kitchen+flooring+2.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 152px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC_sxxTd5UzykB2dy1RF1dEosjZASq1gN0jDWOymyzdwRUxHMbA1etdesvkTcsYO_Mqe0bv_PmmIaeGRWfz1_9IFizJ1Psb_ypCOOwEWhqToHKjS3eTO5A8ceDUOgOJ7f37M4dwM_RNA0/s200/Terrazzo+kitchen+flooring+2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264649313015629410" /></a>brilliantly on a kitchen floor. It is extremely hardwearing and generally non-slip, though avoid wax polish. It can be laid in situ like concrete or bought in tile-form for a more decorative result. Laying different colored tiles next to each other or in a specific pattern will avoid that uniform shop floor look. Low maintenance and waterproof, it is a little less expensive that stone and comes in a variety of colors and textures, depending on its make-up. Once it has been finished with a proprietary sealer, it just needs a mop with water now and then to keep it clean.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-16966578880264069922008-10-29T05:21:00.000-07:002008-11-03T20:12:22.492-08:00Hardwood Flooring For Your KitchenBare wood floors have enjoyed increased popularity recently. Solid parquet and wide, close-laid floorboards were always intended to be bare, but now even the humble old floorboard has been liberated from its covering of linoleum and fitted carpet and is being stripped, varnished or painted.<br /><br />A wood floor in a kitchen is kind to the feet and, if well finished will be water-resistant and easy to clean. Use a just damp mop to avoid water staining. Gap <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHmTTg7RxXXz1oN6qhvroE1cbm7o9fCBWxcq3lYOc6QNsp8EHNZLH0JdSPj-8KLjfkdhXwIUQb0n7ONUUWgRwXuTcoYBBmUfC-3tjCGHkIuBd0xDtkizVD16WMYKoLplRcHAp-PNOJfs/s1600-h/Hardwood+kitchen+flooring.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHHmTTg7RxXXz1oN6qhvroE1cbm7o9fCBWxcq3lYOc6QNsp8EHNZLH0JdSPj-8KLjfkdhXwIUQb0n7ONUUWgRwXuTcoYBBmUfC-3tjCGHkIuBd0xDtkizVD16WMYKoLplRcHAp-PNOJfs/s200/Hardwood+kitchen+flooring.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5264650199685206210" /></a>between old floorboards will attract kitchen dust and dirt, so fill them in with thin strips of wood (or cork if the is not in a noticeable place).<br /><br />New wood floors can often be laid on top of an existing wood floor but nail-down boards will need a solid sub-floor. They give a uniform, clean look and according to the type of wood it will bring warmth and patina to an otherwise functional space. Reclaimed floorboards add instant character but can be expensive and there is no guarantee of uniformity. <br /><br />Hygiene and safety are obviously essential in a kitchen, so ensure that any varnish, lacquer or paint finish is waterproof but not slippery. For a non-shiny, natural look, wood floors can be simply finished with wax or oil and resin but remember that these will need to be reapplied every couple of months. All solid wood floors are fairly expensive (but should last a lifetime). Cheaper, though less durable option include wood-strip flooring or plywood sheets, which if varnished can make an attractive modern floor.<br /><br />• Revamp a tired wood floor with a wood stain or paint finish. They are generally easy to apply to any sanded floor and if topped with a sealant then it should last well. A covering of diluted whitewash can give a limed-oak look to darker boards.<br />• Solid wood floors are not recommended for use I basements because of potential moisture problems. It is better to use engineered wood flooring here (parquet or strip flooring).<br />• If a patch of your floor does become stained, sand it back as soon as you can and re-lacquer.<br />• If you had a scratch, first use rough grit sandpaper #120 then use #240 for final sanding before reapplying lacquer. (Note: when sand scratched area, you must also sand the surrounding scratched area as to prevent a big dent on your floor.)<br /><a target="_new" href="http://EzineArticles.com/"><br /><img src="http://EzineArticles.com/featured/images/e6_purple.gif" border="0" alt="As Featured On Ezine Articles"><br /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-20479020100345537432008-10-27T15:57:00.000-07:002008-10-30T17:23:46.249-07:00Advantages and Disadvantages of a Tiled Kitchen WorktopIf you’re looking for a traditional style kitchen to match with your over all design of your house then you might want to considered a tiled kitchen worktop. The cost of putting a tiled kitchen worktop is cheaper than stone worktop.<br /><br />A tiled worktop is strong, durable and low maintenance. Water and heat resistant and impervious to most food spills, ceramic tiles make a functional and hardwearing kitchen surface. Available in thousands of colors, shapes, sizes and patterns, they allow great scope of creativity. Tiling a worktop can be tackled by an amateur but make sure that the surface is level, use an appropriate grout and waterproof sealant and reapply the sealant every six month. Remember that all unglazed tiles should also be sealed. Below are some of the advantages and disadvantages of a tiled <a href="http://kitchencabinetideas.blogspot.com">kitchen worktop.</a><br /><br />Advantages<br />• Colorful tiles or mosaic make a great decorative impact in a kitchen and provide light relief from expanses of white units and stainless steel.<br />• Tiles are relatively cheap and easy to lay. <br />• A tiled worktop is hard-wearing.<br />• It can be replace easily if you accidentally broke one of the tile.<br />• You can easily match your kitchen worktop with the rest of your kitchen wall.<br />• It will look great if you attach a wooden profile edging instate of a usual tile edging.<br /><br />Disadvantages<br />• Won’t be completely flat and thus won’t work effectively on it’s own as a kneading surface.<br />• If the grout is not flush with the tiles, dirt will gather in the cracks. Clean regularly with a small bush to avoid staining.<br />• Tiles can chip, so buy extra in case you need to replace any at a later date. (Note: Worktop needs a thicker grade of tile that a wall)<br />• Will need to be accurately cut and shaped to fit around pipes and sinks.<br /><a target="_new" href="http://EzineArticles.com/"><br /><img src="http://EzineArticles.com/featured/images/e6_purple.gif" border="0" alt="As Featured On Ezine Articles"><br /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-50153779846573839332008-10-22T22:53:00.001-07:002008-11-03T21:21:07.943-08:00How to Choose The Right Flooring for Your KitchenChoosing flooring for your kitchen it may sounds easy but actually that are may factor to consider. Therefore need to understand all options before making a decision as it will be very costly to remove and replace. <br /><br />The kitchen floor takes more of a beating than any other floor in the house. Not only it is subjected to water and food spills, it is topped with heavy appliances and suffers the constant battering of shoes and feet as we spend hours of our day preparing food, cooking, washing up. What’s more, the kitchen floor is also likely to be bombarded with brushes, brooms and chemical cleaners.<br /><br />Basically there are 6 types of flooring that are more suitable to kitchen use.<br />1. Wooden floors.<br />2. Tiled floors.<br />3. Stone floors.<br />4. Concrete and composite floors.<br />5. Cork and rubber floors.<br />6. Lino and vinyl floors.<br />Each and everyone has its strength and uniqueness. I will touch each and every one of them in detail in my next coming articles. But before choosing the type of flooring for your kitchen there are a few facts that you should consider first.<br /><br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Prepare the ground</span> – Before you lay down any new flooring, you need to make sure that the existing surface is up to it. The sub-floor whether at ground level or suspended on an upper floor, it should be flat, dry and stable. If there is any damage (a broken floorboard, for example), it needs to be sorted out before you put any new flooring on top. Poor floorboards can be topped with a layer of hardboard or plywood to give you a more stable surface. A pitted concrete floor can be evened up with leveling compound. Get advice from a professional floor fitter if you can’t manage the job yourself.<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Keep out the damp</span> – Most concrete sub-floors at ground level need a damp proof membrane (DPM). In modern buildings these are generally fitted as standard, though it is worth checking if you are not sure. In old buildings, however it is rare to find a DPM and indeed the traditional sub-floors may cause moisture to travel higher up the wall. The best thing if you live in an old house is to get advice from the experts as to how to proceed.<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Cable access</span> – If you have yards of cable running underneath the floor for modern telecommunications such as the telephone, computer and so on, make sure when you put a new flooring material on top that you will still be able to access them for maintenance. It is also worth drawing up a plan of what runs where to make any repair work that becomes necessary easier.<br />• <span style="font-weight:bold;">Non-slip</span> – Many of the best flooring materials (stone, tiles & concrete) can get slippery when they are wet, so think up ways of protecting yourself without sacrificing your chosen look.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-8167400992603911672008-10-22T08:06:00.000-07:002008-10-29T05:27:21.566-07:00Advantages and Disadvantages of a Metal Kitchen WorktopSometimes when we went to a restaurant and we see their kitchen and its all made of metal and you might wonder is it suitable for my kitchen. Well there might be some advantages and disadvantages as a restaurant kitchen they are more towards a commercial whereas home is always a home but a good kitchen consultant should be able to design for you a super cool kitchen with a mix of other element like wood, glass and stone. <br /><br />Shiny stainless steel worktops have become increasingly popular over the last few years and as well as looking chic and sleek have a lot of practical benefits too. They are strong and durable water and heat resistant and even better is they are very hygienic. Though stainless steel will show smudges and marks, a wipe over with a lightly oiled cloth should bring up a shine. Zinc, by contrast, will stain very easily (which is all part of its appeal) but, being soft, it is very to apply to a worktop and will give you that Parisian café look in an instant. I have list down some advantages and disadvantages of a metal kitchen worktop and it will help you to understand better:<br /><br />Advantages<br />1. Stainless steel comes in various textures and finishes, from brushed to polished gloss to ridge.<br />2. Available in thin sheets, it is reasonable pliable and easy to apply, even to curved surface.<br />3. If polished it makes a highly reflective surface and enhance the light.<br />4. A stainless steel worktop with integral sink and draining board makes for a very streamlined kitchen and no joint means no seepage in the units below.<br />5. It will match very well with your contemporary or modern design kitchen cabinet as it will give a very minimalist look.<br />6. Stainless steel is non-porous so you can have a clean your kitchen easily by just using a mild soap and a soft sponge.<br /><br />Disadvantages<br />1. High quality stainless steel is quite expensive although high street kitchen shops are starting to introduce less costly ranges.<br />2. Essentially a cold material, it won’t bring warmth to the kitchen but works well when teamed with wood or paintwork.<br />3. Combining metal and glass kitchen utensils with a metal worktop won’t make for a quite kitchen.<br />4. It can be quite easily get scratch especially if it a polished worktop.<br />5. If you a hard object dropping on it, your worktop will get a dent just like your car.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-75133730794248926612008-10-09T08:01:00.000-07:002008-10-29T05:26:25.091-07:00Advantages and Disadvantages of Wooden Kitchen WorktopsWorktop is one of the hardest working surfaces in the kitchen. Constant preparations are and sometimes its like a chopping board, it is subjected to knocks, scratches, water and food spills. Therefore when we choose a worktop for our kitchen there are quite a number of criteria that we should consider.<br /><br />Wooden work surfaces have shaken off their scrubbed kitchen table image and now that timber is being sourced from all over the world, some very durable woods are available (though avoid buying endangered tropical hardwoods if you can: a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) label marks out wood from sustainable source. Wooden worktops need to be sealed to protect them from humidity (particularly in centrally heated homes) and can be either finished with a lacquer, which should be reapplied each year, or oiled every two to three months. Oiled wood is tougher and more resistant to heat marks that lacquered wood and it also improves with age. Another option is t use en-grain wood (e.g. wood that has been turned on end and glued together in blocks). This has the look of a chopping board, is less liable to warp and makes a good cutting surface as it is much harder. Varnished plywood (glued together in layers to give a stripy profile) can also make a good and very reasonably priced worktop. The cost varies according to the type of wood and application: generally speaking, the more hardwearing the wood, the higher the cost.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Advantages:</span><br />• The huge variety of woods means great potential for creativity: a wooden worktop can look dark and luxurious (stained oak works well – if you can find it from a sustainable source); warm and honey-colored (reclaimed teak, maple) or pale and interesting (beech, elm, spruce).<br />• It is warm, mellow, natural and improves with edge.<br />• Wooden worktop a bit softer and are able to absorb clatter.<br />• It can be used to soften the hard edges and shiny finished of stainless steel and glass and will also add warmth to a cool white kitchen.<br />• Can be installed by a proficient amateur.<br />• Fairly easy to maintain: reapply oil (tung oil, available from DIY stores) or lacquer when needed and avoid harsh abrasive cleaners. Can survive a good scrub if you feel the need.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Disadvantages:</span><br />• All wood will warp to some extent in a centrally heated kitchen, though hardwoods will be less affected.<br />• The joins of end-grain wood can start to open up if not properly sealed.<br />• Will stain, scratch and burn so be prepared to use chopping board.<br /><br />I will talk about other types of kitchen worktop in my next post. Stay tune!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-615300276156885902008-10-07T08:17:00.000-07:002008-10-07T23:58:11.821-07:00What Is Eco-Friendly KitchenKitchen is usually the least eco-friendly room in the house. Appliances eat up energy and water, and we are careless with these resources. On top of that, we use detergents and disinfectants that are full of petrochemicals and phosphates and we fill our bins with non-biodegradable waste.<br />Whether you are creating a new kitchen from scratch or just going for a revamp, put environmental issues at the top of your shopping list and buy appliances and products that have good eco-friendly credentials.<br /><br />So before you start looking for a kitchen cabinet manufacturer or consultant, you should know that there is more then 130 kitchen cabinet manufacturers already earned KCMA seal. In order for this manufacturer to be able to receive this award they must earn at least 80 out of 105 possible points in the categories that consider formaldehyde emissions, use of recycled material, manufacturing process, environmentally stewardship and community relations.<br />For more information on the above eco-friendly kitchen cabinet companies, please visit www.kcma.org.<br /><br />There are many ways that you can help your kitchen to be eco-friendly besides getting an eco-friendly kitchen cabinet consultant, here are some the ideas that you can try to implement yourself:<br /><br />• Wood - ensure it comes from sustainable sources with certification from FSC.<br />• Plywood and MDF(Medium Density Fiberboard) - These material required binders and therefore they does not contain UF and with low formaldehyde.<br />• Finishing material – Manufacturer should only use water-base lacquer.<br />• Tiles – That are made of recycled aluminum, brass and glass.<br />• Flooring – Eco timber flooring comes from fast-growing renewable sources.<br />• Appliances - All their parts should be able to recycle at the end of their usefulness, energy saving, consume less water and self cleaning (so that you use less detergent).<br />• Cleaners – Try to avoid chemical-based kitchen cleaners.<br />• Lightings - Install dimmers in your kitchen so that you are able to cut down energy consumption or even better install <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000GBIVVS?ie=UTF8&tag=htup-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000GBIVVS">energy saving light bulb</a> as they usually consume less then half the energy and it has a lifespan of more then 10 times of incandescent light bulb. <br />• Minimize packaging. Buy food with as little packaging as possible, avoid plastic packaging and recycle as much as you can.<br /><br />We should do our part to take care of our fragile environment to ensure that our grand children, great grand children are still able to enjoy it. The thing that we take for granted right now…. Trees, green grass, clean water, fresh air to breath might rare to them if we don’t take action right now.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-85734031019515628662008-10-04T19:24:00.000-07:002008-11-03T21:20:34.312-08:00How to Make Our Kitchen SaferBoiling Water, sharp knife, gas appliances, electrical appliances….. Our kitchen has a lot of potential hazards. Therefore below are lists of advice that I would like to provide to kitchen user. Let’s make our kitchen a safer place.<br /><br />1. Don’t place sockets or light switches near the cooker of the sink.<br />2. Choose flooring that won’t get slippery when wet. e.g. high polish tiles.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEED4JlfImhaWBxy0Gw_d4LBAGKodRUFjAPIDcxWbhv44W2i7SOEXCwGKYNeI7_xJKHfs475dZ1Y-GNBMWwjy9ATQYLi-9eoTJ4iq4bVN01p6pmgsbWyBAN_3sfUB-FFX7C7nLN77e5L8/s1600-h/Stove+Guard.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEED4JlfImhaWBxy0Gw_d4LBAGKodRUFjAPIDcxWbhv44W2i7SOEXCwGKYNeI7_xJKHfs475dZ1Y-GNBMWwjy9ATQYLi-9eoTJ4iq4bVN01p6pmgsbWyBAN_3sfUB-FFX7C7nLN77e5L8/s320/Stove+Guard.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254603004279204338" /></a><br />3. Ensure that no gas appliances leaks. Have old gas cooker checked at least once a month. You can get advice here.<br />4. Position a gas hob away from windows and doors: draughts can easily blow out the gas without you realizing.<br />5. Take sensible fire precautions: fit a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00032NDSG?ie=UTF8&tag=htup-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B00032NDSG">smoke alarm</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=htup-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00032NDSG" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" border="0" height="1" width="1" />, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000IHSN3Q?ie=UTF8&tag=htup-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B000IHSN3Q">fire extinguisher </a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=htup-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B000IHSN3Q" alt="" style="border: medium none ! important; margin: 0px ! important;" border="0" height="1" width="1" />and use non-flammable materials around the cooking area.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsJPD9ckoO7IT9KCEF14pOHvoYavA3RhNNoKJBv9elw6IdaRdXNHup4JGpQeyCLckn54JQ-yZ5bvIka8ABJ-BlWfOXQ15lptUdc23HMugTeesOE6RvyO5F9jZ8cSnCui74VPPZyQCdGA/s1600-h/Oven+Door+Guard.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpsJPD9ckoO7IT9KCEF14pOHvoYavA3RhNNoKJBv9elw6IdaRdXNHup4JGpQeyCLckn54JQ-yZ5bvIka8ABJ-BlWfOXQ15lptUdc23HMugTeesOE6RvyO5F9jZ8cSnCui74VPPZyQCdGA/s320/Oven+Door+Guard.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254603351548319234" /></a><br />6. Install good lighting: a dimly lit kitchen is a dangerous one.<br />7. Make sure there are no jagged corners or sharp edges on worktops or furniture.<br />8. Avoid trailing cables: appliance and light flexes must be kept under control.<br />9. If you have a small child, invest in cupboard locks so that kitchen cleaning products (and food!) are kept out reach.<br />10. Make sure that anything on castors has a locking mechanism so that it can be kept stable.<br />11. Install oven door heat shield in order to protect children from getting burn while backing. You can purchase this item <a href="http://www.ovenguard.com.au">here.</a><br />12. Install stove guard to protect children from accidentally being scald by your stove during and after cooking. You can purchase this item at <a href="http://www.totsafe.com">here.</a><br /><OBJECT classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://fpdownload.macromedia.com/get/flashplayer/current/swflash.cab" id="Player_a20e8327-50bb-40cf-a093-009f04d218ef" WIDTH="400px" HEIGHT="150px"> <PARAM NAME="movie" VALUE="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fhtup-20%2F8010%2Fa20e8327-50bb-40cf-a093-009f04d218ef&Operation=GetDisplayTemplate"><PARAM NAME="quality" VALUE="high"><PARAM NAME="bgcolor" VALUE="#FFFFFF"><PARAM NAME="allowscriptaccess" VALUE="always"><embed src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fhtup-20%2F8010%2Fa20e8327-50bb-40cf-a093-009f04d218ef&Operation=GetDisplayTemplate" id="Player_a20e8327-50bb-40cf-a093-009f04d218ef" quality="high" bgcolor="#ffffff" name="Player_a20e8327-50bb-40cf-a093-009f04d218ef" allowscriptaccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" align="middle" height="150px" width="400px"></embed></OBJECT> <NOSCRIPT><A HREF="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822%2FUS%2Fhtup-20%2F8010%2Fa20e8327-50bb-40cf-a093-009f04d218ef&Operation=NoScript">Amazon.com Widgets</A></NOSCRIPT>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-77759302095690375282008-10-01T18:42:00.000-07:002008-11-03T21:33:30.451-08:00How To Choose The Right Kitchen Cabinet ConsultantKitchen is the heart of our home, as we spend most of our time in the kitchen. Therefore we should pay more attention to prevent making the wrong decision. If we were to make a wrong decision on our kitchen cabinet design, we might have to live with it for quite some time as it is not easy to replace one. As a result, I would like to provide a check list for home owners who are planning to purchase or remodeling your existing kitchen cabinet.<br /><br />1. Look for a reliable kitchen consultant.<br />• A <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3175374-10362932" target="_blank" onmouseover="window.status='http://www.reliableremodeler.com/partners/';return true;" onmouseout="window.status=' ';return true;">professional consultant</a> should be able to provide you with a lot ideas and solutions for your new kitchen. They should be able to guide you and give you a solution base on your budget.<br />• A knowledgeable consultant will be able to advise you on the shape (work triangular) of your kitchen and the position of all your appliances, sink, oven and <a href="http://locatereviews.com/1313075117">kitchen island</a> to make your kitchen experience more enjoyable. <br /><br />2. What kind of style of kitchen you are looking for.<br />• The style of kitchen should follow the overall design of your house.<br />• Country style.<br />• Contemporary style.<br />• Classic<br /><br />3. What is your preference on the type of material for your kitchen cabinet.<br />• Wood: Oak, Maple, Cherry, Pine, Hickory<br />• MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard)<br />• Melamine Laminated<br />• Thermofoil<br />• Veneer<br /><br />4. What kind of construction of the cabinet.<br />• <a href="http://locatereviews.com/1633753406">Modular Kitchen</a><br />• Semi-custom<br />• Custom<br />• What type of joint and hardware do they use for their structures<br />• What type of material do they use for their internal structures<br /><br />5. Warranty for their product.<br />• How long is their warranty period?<br />• What are the things that their warranty does not cover?<br />• If there is a problem, how fast is their responds time.<br /><br />6. Additional services and upgrades.<br />• Up grades of soft-close drawer slides, soft-close hinges, child safe door & drawer, tempered glass….<br />• Increase the depth of the base unit. (usually is 24 inches)<br />• All the storage solutions.<br />• The types of finishing they can offer.<br /><br />7. What is your budget and how to determine the right amount?<br />• Usually the cost of putting up a kitchen cabinet including appliance but excluding electrical wiring, gas lines and plumbing should be around 10% - 20% of value of the house.<br /><br />Usually I would advice home owners to do more research on your own lifestyle -do you entertain a lot? how often do you cook? how big is your family? and finally you should get at least 3 <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3175374-10362932" target="_blank" onmouseover="window.status='http://www.reliableremodeler.com/partners/';return true;" onmouseout="window.status=' ';return true;">quotes</a> for your kitchen cabinet. Have Fun.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-24564469060939911002008-09-27T09:29:00.000-07:002008-11-03T21:28:59.776-08:00How To Build A Great Outdoor Kitchen<span style="font-family: arial;">Sometimes it is nice to cook outside from our usual place. Therefore, an outdoor kitchen will be assets if we plan it well. Another good reason for you to have an outdoor kitchen is that it will increase the value of you home and sometime that could be your main selling point.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;">1. Roof over the kitchen area.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> You should at least build a roof to cover all the appliances especially those runs on electricity. Make sure the worktop, patio are slop to prevent standing water. If your area rains quite often, you should consider installing a drain around the base of your kitchen.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;"> 2. Ventilation.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> <a href="http://www.kqzyfj.com/click-3175374-10278860" target="_blank"><br /><img src="http://www.lduhtrp.net/image-3175374-10278860" width="125" height="125" alt="Up to 75% off at StacksandStacks.com" border="0"/ align=right></a>Make sure to position your grill far enough away from your house. Down-wind might also cause the smoke and odor to be a nuisance around eating area, so you should think carefully and plan the kitchen in the right location. If your outdoor kitchen is in a covered area or under a screened porch, you should consider installing a mechanical ventilation. So, always remember that an open air kitchen will have somewhat uncontrollable wind, therefore plan it well as smoke and odors blown into your eyes or in your house might ruin your great evening with your friends and family.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;"> 3. Use Durable Material.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> Indoor materials are definitely not suitable for outdoor kitchen, including those worktops that are made from strips of wood laminated together. Make sure the material that you choose are FDA approved for food contact and the material should not easily produce mildew or mold during raining season.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;"> 4. Plan sufficient lighting and outdoor speakers.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> Make sure those task area like the grill, sink and work area are well lighted. To improve the overall ambiance of your outdoor kitchen you should consider installing a dimmer a few good speakers. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-family: arial;"> 5. Utility connections.</span><span style="font-family: arial;"> Bring the electric, gas and water to your outdoor kitchen could be a big expensive task therefore you should consider getting an advice from a <a href="http://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-3175374-10362932" target="_blank" onmouseover="window.status='http://www.reliableremodeler.com/partners/';return true;" onmouseout="window.status=' ';return true;">professional contractor</a> in order to conform to your local codes and utility company rules and regulation. All utility runs should be buried in a trench and mark them properly to prevent accidents happened.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: arial;"> So, remember to choose materials that are durable, shade all your important appliances against rain and must be able to withstand winter weather or at least it is easily detach for storage. Get all your utility done properly and make sure the cooking area is well ventilated. Lighting and managing the rain water away from cabinets are also important. Have Fun. </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7605987905935575525.post-14757236636015843542008-09-21T21:18:00.000-07:002008-11-03T21:37:56.526-08:00How To Design Your New Kitchen<script charset="utf-8" type="text/javascript" src="http://ws.amazon.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&MarketPlace=US&ID=V20070822/US/htup-20/8005/48886300-385d-492b-aba8-61d2ac413a3a"></script> <noscript></noscript><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" >Before looking for a kitchen cabinet specialist for your new house or remodeling your new house, there are a few basic information you should have:<br /></span><p><span style=";font-family:Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">1. 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Typically how many people cook at the same time?</span> You might need to consider this as you might need a bigger work space for the cooking and preparation area and also the number of sinks you need.</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family:arial;">6. The frequency of cooking for you family and also how ofter you entertain your guest.</span></p><p style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-family:arial;">7. Is your kitchen and living are in the same area?</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">8. Do you family spent most of their time in kitchen?</span> e.g. doing laundry, doing computer work, watch television.</span></p><p><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">9. Other special requirement.</span> e.g. disable person, babies, young children, or old people.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0