How to Choose the Right Countertops for Your Kitchen Remodel

/0 Comments/in /by

Planning a kitchen remodel? The right countertops enhance both style and function. When selecting materials, homeowners should consider durability, maintenance, and aesthetics. Craftsmen Home Improvements, a trusted Ohio remodeler, provides expert guidance to help achieve a seamless kitchen transformation.

Understanding Different Types of Kitchen Countertops

When planning a kitchen remodel, understanding your countertop options helps you make the best choice for your space. Common kitchen countertop materials include granite, quartz, marble, laminate, and solid surface. Each material brings unique benefits that can enhance your kitchen’s look and functionality. The right choice will align with your kitchen’s style and practical needs.

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are a favorite for their durability and natural beauty. This dense igneous rock, formed from cooled magma, is tough enough to handle the demands of a busy kitchen, resisting scratches and heat with ease. Each granite slab is unique, offering a range of colors and patterns that can either make a bold statement or subtly enhance your kitchen’s design.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are durable and easy to maintain. Made from a blend of natural quartz crystals and resin, they are non-porous and resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria.

As a man-made material, quartz can replicate the look of natural stones like marble and granite or offer bold, modern designs. This flexibility means homeowners can find a quartz countertop that matches their kitchen’s traditional or contemporary style.

Marble Countertops

Thanks to their distinctive veining and variety of colors, marble countertops bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to any kitchen. From the classic white with gray veins to more adventurous hues like green or pink, each marble slab has its own unique charm.

Marble requires careful maintenance due to its porous surface, which can absorb stains and develop etching from acidic substances like lemon juice or vinegar. Regular sealing helps protect it, while prompt cleaning of spills preserves its appearance.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops are a practical choice for homeowners on a budget. They are created by bonding paper or fabric with resin and are both affordable and easy to install.

A major advantage of laminate is its design versatility. Modern printing techniques allow the laminate to imitate pricier materials like granite or marble convincingly. With a vast array of colors and patterns, laminate can complement any kitchen style.

Solid Surface Countertops

Solid surface countertops are a practical choice for modern kitchens, offering a sleek, seamless look. Made from acrylic or polyester resins, these non-porous surfaces resist stains and bacteria, making them ideal for families focused on hygiene. While they don’t replicate the natural veining of stone, solid surfaces come in a wide array of colors and patterns to fit different design tastes. 

Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Countertop Materials

Selecting the right countertop involves balancing style, budget, and practicality. Consider how your kitchen is used daily, and choose a material that aligns with your needs.

Durability and Maintenance

Some materials, like quartz and granite, resist scratches and heat, making them ideal for busy kitchens. Others, such as marble, require more upkeep due to their porous nature. Regular sealing, cleaning, and proper care can extend the lifespan of your countertops.

Aesthetic Appeal and Style

Countertops should complement your kitchen’s design. Consider color, texture, and finish to match cabinetry and flooring. A polished surface adds a sleek look, while a honed or matte finish creates a softer appearance.

Budget Considerations

Costs vary widely, with laminate and solid surfaces being more affordable, while natural stone and quartz tend to be higher-end. Prioritize spending based on how much use and wear your countertops will see. Investing in a durable, low-maintenance material can save money in the long run.

Get the Right Countertop for Your Kitchen at Craftsmen Home Improvements

Choosing the right countertops improves both the function and style of your kitchen. By considering durability, maintenance, style, and budget, you can find a material that suits your needs. 

For expert guidance and a wide selection of countertop options, contact Craftsmen Home Improvements. Our team is ready to help you create a kitchen that exceeds your expectations. Visit our website today to schedule a free consultation.

 

Image credit: idea _Photo / Shutterstock

Kitchen Backsplash Ideas

/in , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.The kitchen is one of the main areas that prospective buyers consider when looking at a house. How a kitchen looks can greatly affect its value, which makes a kitchen remodel one of the more important home improvement projects. A tile backsplash is one of those design elements that can significantly influence the overall look of a kitchen as the eye is naturally drawn to it when entering the room. When choosing a backsplash, the first thing to consider will be the style in which the rest of the kitchen is decorated. In particular, it is important to look at the cabinets and countertops near the sink. The homeowner should choose something that fits in with what they already have. Doing this allows a backsplash to enhance the kitchen’s décor while also narrowing down the vast number of options.

Here are some of the more popular and visually appealing backsplash ideas that can help to improve a kitchen’s look:

Subway Tile Backsplash
These tiles have been used in commercial kitchens for years and have recently become popular with homeowners. Their understated look makes them easy to pair with just about any kitchen décor. They are widely available can be purchased in a vast number of colors and textures. The materials used to make subway tiles range from ceramic to granite.

Glass Tile Backsplash
Glass backsplashes have the twin benefits of being easy to clean and relatively inexpensive (though not all types of glass tile will be budget-friendly). Glass is also easy to install by screwing or gluing it to the wall. Homeowners have wide range of options to choose from with glass tiles being available in various colors. Types of glass tile include those made from tempered glass, which is scratch resistant. They also have the option of getting tiles that are made from recycled glass.

Stainless Steel Backsplash
Stainless steel can help a kitchen to feel more like that or a restaurant. Stainless steel’s durability is well known and it is heat resistant as well. Unlike other materials, it can handle just about anything that a homeowner is likely to throw at it. Cleaning it is easy, requiring only a little disinfectant and a rag. Furthermore, stainless steel backsplash tiles are flexible in that they are a good fit for just about any kitchen style.

Stone Backsplash
Options with stone backsplashes include those made with crush quartz that has been mixed with a resin (engineered stone). This material makes for an extremely durable backsplash that is resistant to both scratches and heat. Homeowners should note that a professional must handle the installation of engineered stone; it is not a DIY task. Granite and marble are both popular stone backsplash materials with granite being the more traditional choice. Each slab of natural stone is unique, which means that homeowners have the option of giving their kitchen its own distinctive look.

Brick Backsplash
Brick can provide a kitchen with a historic look. Homeowners can opt for brick or brick veneer, which is easy to install and easier to clean than real brick. Additionally, there is no need to seal brick veneer.

Wise Ways to Maximize a Kitchen Remodel

/in , , , /by

The home improvement project associated with the most return on investment is kitchen renovation. It can drastically improve the satisfaction current homeowners have for their home, and increase home value for those looking to sell, but these benefits don’t come cheap. Keeping the price tag down does not have to mean resorting to a fully do-it-yourself plan either – professional designers and contractors bring near-endless industry knowledge and expertise that saves homeowners from headaches and potentially expensive mistakes.

Appliances
Appliances, both large and small, are the number one element that contributes to overspending on kitchen remodeling. To keep costs reasonable, homeowners should give serious thought to what they actually need. The 8 burner, cast-iron stove with a grill and quadruple oven may be tempting but when the most homeowners may use these features only once or twice, the 5-digit price tag makes it obvious that ultra-high end appliances like this aren’t the best choice. The same goes for specialty items like pasta machines: a stand mixer with multi-function attachments will replace nearly all of these for far less cost. “Scratch and dent” appliance stores also offer excellent savings, especially when the item is discounted because of a minor blemish on the back that no one will see. Walls & TilingThe nearly endless options for tile make a beautiful kitchen possible without breaking the bank. Choosing materials wisely or tiling only the necessary areas will keep budgets reasonable while still creating a beautiful space, and professional designers will know exactly how to achieve this without looking “cheap.”

Cabinets
Cabinets are another area where it’s easy to overspend, but with careful planning costs can be kept reasonable. Hiring a professional designer to assist with layout will help maximize the available space while still achieving a cohesive and attractive look. Professionally installed, well-made cabinets are absolutely worth investing in so they will last for decades.

Countertops
Like cabinets, this is an area to give careful thought to and allow a little flexibility in the budget. Countertops are of utmost importance as without a good work area a kitchen is nearly useless. There are many options for all types of budgets that will also last for years and look great.

When planning a kitchen remodel, function should come before form but neither aspect need be ignored. A kitchen with carrera marble, a $40,000 refrigerator and a wine cellar may look nice but if the layout is poor and the materials are high maintenance it isn’t of much use to anyone, and an outdated kitchen is not living up to its full potential if its so unwelcoming that no one wants to use it. Discussing budget, family habits and needs with a designer will result in a kitchen that works smoothly and efficiently, and looks fantastic.

Quick Guide to Kitchen Remodeling

/in , , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

Tips & Tricks For Every Kitchen Remodeling Project

Remodeling your kitchen is a great home improvement project that can breathe new life into your space. The kitchen is the heart of the home, and it can set the tone of your home decor with dramatic impact. If you are thinking about completing a kitchen remodel for the first time, you may not be certain what to expect or how to proceed. By focusing on a few points, you can more easily complete the project that you have in mind.

Select the Right Kitchen Remodeling Contractors

As a first step, you need to find skilled contractors to work with. From gutting your kitchen to installing new flooring, a kitchen remodel is a major project that you do not want to embark on alone. When you demand professional, quality results you need to carefully select the right team to assist you. Pay attention to the experience and skills of the contractors before comparing the cost of their services if you want to make the best selection for your home.

Choose the Right Kitchen Design

A kitchen design should be both functional and stylish. You may choose to keep the layout similar to the existing kitchen and simply replace the features, or you may have a more of a significant design change in mind. The perfect design is one that fits your family’s lifestyle and that enhances the style in the rest of the home.

Consider Ways to Save Money On Your Kitchen Remodeling Projects

If you are like most homeowners who are preparing to embark on a major home improvement project, you may have already established a budget for the project. Consider setting up a free in-home consultation, trusted companies will provide these to you at no cost.  As you select the contractors who you want to work with and choose your materials, you may find that you need to adjust your budget accordingly. However, rather than change the scope of your project, another idea to consider is cost-saving alternatives. For example, rather than using granite counter tops, you may consider using a more affordable concrete counter top that has been decoratively finished to look like granite. This is just one of several different options that you can consider when you want to save money on your project, and the right home improvement contractor can help you to identify ideas that are specific to the scope of your project.

Through your kitchen remodeling project, you can improve the style and function of your space as well as the value of your home. Getting started on a project of this magnitude can seem intimidating, but taking the first steps will get the ball rolling so that you can achieve the end result you are dreaming about. As a first step, take time to learn more about the remodeling contractors that have experience with kitchen remodeling projects. The right contractor can guide you through the rest of the process.

9 Steps to a Fantastic Kitchen Remodel

/in , , , , /by
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.
Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

Best Process For Kitchen Remodeling

Between choosing appliances, flipping through reference photos, and deciding on a contractor, kitchen remodeling can be a a long and involved process. Following the proper procedure and hiring the right people, however, can lead to an easy installation and a beautiful new kitchen.

1. Decide on Style and Function
Before home improvement can occur, it is important to determine preferred style, desired kitchen layout and individual lifestyle needs. Look at reference photos to get a sense of the different aesthetics from eclectic to traditional. Decide whether the kitchen will be used primarily as a cooking space, or whether it should have a breakfast nook.

2. Make a Budget
Creating a budget helps to determine the scope of a kitchen remodel project. Become educated about the price of cabinets, appliances and materials. This helps narrowing down choices and guides the project towards eventual success.

3. Talk to Professionals
Once a budget and style have been decided, it is time to consult with a professional. Craftsman Home Improvement provides free in-home consultations, and can help people choose color schemes, cabinets, counter tops and more. The Craftsman professionals can also provide bathroom makeover tips, how-to help and answer any other home remodel questions.

4. Financing
When consulting with contractors, remember to inquire about their financing options. At Craftsmen, loans and financing services are available for your Cincinnati kitchen remodel.

5. Design the Kitchen
Once a professional has been hired, it is time to plan the kitchen. This process involves layout, floor plans, space planning and more. Clients and contractors work together to create a kitchen plan that fits within the available budget and suits the client’s wants and needs.

6. Choose Fixtures
Once the essential layout has been determined, it is time to decide on the final details. Choosing light fixtures, flooring, counter tops, refrigerators and more. These choices usually reflect the chosen style, whether it be contemporary kitchen or an old time kitchen.

7. Finalize the Plans
Before the installation can begin, it is important to finalize floor plans and electrical drawings. This ensures that the contractor and client are on the same page about the scope of the project.

8. Installation
A good contractor can install a kitchen quickly and efficiently, with little disruption to a client’s day. During a Craftsmen installation lead installers are always on hand to answer questions, solve problems and guide the installation process to its successful completion.

9. Inspection
Once the installation is complete, the lead installer will inspect the new kitchen to ensure that it fulfills all local codes and that it has been completed to the client’s satisfaction.

Craftsmen works with clients to make their dream kitchens a reality. Consult with a Craftsmen professional to begin a kitchen, basement or bathroom remodel.

Tips for Kitchen Renovation

/in , , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Kitchen remodeling is an exciting experience, but it’s also a huge project. It’s sometimes hard to know where to start, and can easily become overwhelming. The tips below describe the most important steps to take before starting a big project like this.

Set Concrete Goals

Before diving into a project it is essential to determine what is expected from the end results. A great way to do this is by looking at the kitchen and making a list of pros and cons. The list can then be utilized to change the cons of the space into something you like.

Popular reasons for remodeling:

  • Larger Kitchen / Kitchen Expansion
  • Open floor space
  • Countertop Expansion
  • Additional light fixtures
  • Style Modification

Seek advice from a local home improvement center in order to find out what is needed to meet project goals.

Set a Budget

Like any other remodeling project, things can get expensive fast. It is essential to create a budget so you know what you can spend. The larger the budget the more freedom you will have, but it is possible to meet goals with a smaller budget.

Contractor Estimates

Home improvement stores will usually have a list of available contractors. It is necessary to set up an appointment with a contractor so they can look at the existing kitchen and give an estimate of how much the remodel will cost.

It is important to find a good contractor, but keep in mind that this process can take awhile. It is wise to meet with several contractors and make comparisons on price and opinion. A detailed, written estimate should be provided and a request can be made for information about the experience and credentials of each contractor.

Budget Revisions

After talking to contractors, the budget might be too low for what is wanted. At that point, the homeowner has two choices: raise the budget or lower the amount of work. If the homeowner chooses to lower the amount of work, priorities should be made and some changes will have to be left out.

A great option for people on a budget is to try DIY projects. Many how-to manuals are available for simple home improvement jobs that anyone can do. Another option is to substitute expensive products with less expensive ones.

Request A Kitchen Remodeling Quote

Communication is Key to a Dream Kitchen

/in , , , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Kitchen remodeling can be costly and time-consuming. Especially, if the homeowner decides to take on several DIY projects. No matter how handy you are, it’s best to hire or consult with a professional. They will get the job done right, saving precious time and money. If you are planning on hiring a professional for your remodel, there are several things you can do to stay in control of your remodel, and make sure you’re happy with the end results.

Plan, Budget and Communicate

You should always start with a clear plan and a set budget. Schedule your plans and projects so you won’t get lost in all the work. Determine a budget so you don’t end up spending more than you intended. Don’t rush through these steps because they are just as important as the remodel itself.

While setting your plan, keep functionality in mind. You’ll be with your kitchen for awhile so make sure the plans meet your everyday needs. Unless you’re planning to do another remodel in a few years, it’s best to stay away from recent trends. What’s in today might be out of style tomorrow, and changing your kitchen isn’t as easy as changing your wardrobe. It’s recommended that you avoid design trends like breakfast nooks or trash compactors. Instead, go for extra traditional and useful extras like counter space and storage.

A kitchen remodel is a major project and in most cases should be handled by a professional. Talk extensively with your contractor and let them know every detail of the plan and budget. Be clear about what you want. If you have any questions for your contractor ask them as soon as it comes up, so there in no confusion. By setting a plan, budget and communicating with your contractor, you will be well on your way to the kitchen of your dreams.

Making the Most of a Small Kitchen

/in , , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Small kitchens can be frustrating, but there are ways to optimize the space for convenience. Kitchens are one of the most important spaces in a home, and when it’s small and hard to use it can negatively effect the way a person feels about their home. Utilizing extra space and storage can make a world of difference in a small kitchen.

Cabinets are a great way to change the dynamic of your kitchen. In many cases, cabinets are installed in ways that waste a great deal of space and storage area. Changing your cabinets is a great way to gain more space without tearing down any walls. This strategy can also be applied to appliances. There is a certain flow that should exist in a kitchen between the space, appliances and storage. If your oven is on one side of the kitchen and your countertop is on the other this can create an annoying waste of time. Consult with a contractor, and find out what you can do to improve your kitchen.

Craftsmen Home Improvements provide ideas on how to turn a narrow, rectangular shaped kitchen into a cooking space with convenient dining zones. By redesigning the location of cabinets, appliances and sinks with added “free space” at the “L” of the rectangle, a kitchen island can be added. This will give it a modern look that adds cabinet and counter space within the extended island. The best kitchen remodeling ideas are those that reduce wasted countertop, cabinet, wall and floor space.

Small Kitchen Design Extending Depth

When small kitchens have limited wall space, this may be due to the actual locations of walls. For example, smaller homes built in the late 1950s and 1960s often included a small kitchen with single door access to a larger dining room. This kitchen design is also seen in urban apartments. There are several remodeling options that can create a modern, spacious kitchen. By removing completely or relocating the wall between the kitchen and dining room, a much larger kitchen is possible. Another remodeling plan is to relocate a dividing wall and add a breakfast nook in the kitchen that creates its own wall between kitchen and dining room. Contact Craftsmen Home Improvements to learn more.

BIG BUTTON

Design Advice From The Pros

/in , , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Creating the perfect design for your kitchen requires considerable thought and research. Your kitchen should not only meet your current needs, but also improve the chances of selling in the future.

Trends of the Past

The kitchen hood was an obsession in recent years, but its popularity is winding down gradually. Colored appliances threatened to return with the “Arctic White” look, but stainless steel is still the go-to color that fits with most designs. The farmhouse sink was all the rage in 2011 and 2012, but the stainless sink returned as the workhorse for today’s busy families. Crystal and frosted glass fronts on cabinets had their day, but are now being replaced by more modern cabinetry. Storage for small appliances was common in past years, but this used up valuable cabinet space. These are all styles to avoid for a kitchen remodel. Trendy styles should be avoided at all costs because even if it’s in now, it might not be in the future and this could minimize the chances of selling your home.

Modern Design

Furniture-style cabinets, open shelving and sleek, modern styling are expected to be the hottest trends in 2015. Cabinets with vertical slats are also making an appearance. Innovative ceiling designs, dramatic wallpaper and glimmering metallic accents are other features that will create a fresh feel for kitchens in the coming year. Color-wise, expect to see tones based on tribal designs that express ethnicity and cultural heritage, instead of the generic styles of the past

Make the Most of Kitchen Space
As you consider kitchen designs for the future, think about how your family uses the kitchen today. As technology becomes more prevalent in our lives, a charging station for devices could be very useful. A good choice is to include drawers for notebooks, pens and batteries. Entertaining has become much more casual, and finding ways to incorporate guests into the cooking experience will make your design more contemporary. The kitchen island has expanded into a focal point for many kitchens.

Professional Advice

Experts advise studying your current kitchen design to determine its shortcomings. You can design ways of overcoming these flaws. Think about how you use your kitchen for everyday tasks and consider ergonomic improvements to make your work easier. Think about fixture that fit the style, but also serve a purpose or function. Spend plenty of time on lighting for optimum efficiency. For those troublesome problems, consult with Craftsman Home Improvements for their knowledge and expertise on functional kitchen areas.

Request A Free In-Home Consultation

Modern Kitchen Design Ideas

/in , , , , , /by

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.Kitchens are the heart of a home and the center for family activity and communication. In the 21st c., the modern trend has become one of the most popular design styles for home remodels because of its sleek and clean look. This article will discuss some of the ways to achieve the modern look and bring the kitchen back to the 21st c.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

The Open Floor Plan

In the past, kitchens were a place for cooking and homes included living rooms as the space for gathering. Separate kitchens were largely a mark of status in Western cultures. However, the latest designs call for a blending of function. Open floor plans remove the barrier between these two areas in order to maximize space and create a sense of openness. The open floor plan adjusts cabinets, countertops into a way that makes the area seem larger, which makes it perfect for entertaining. Smart storage that maximizes space, open shelving and low drawers are helpful methods to achieve this look.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

Sustainability Meets Technology

The majority of cutting edge designs often utilize organic materials like stone, wood, ceramic, glass or metal to achieve the modern look. However, they also use the latest technology to optimize energy consumption. Concrete countertops and sealed concrete floors make for a surprisingly elegant concept with a small footprint. Many homeowners install special tints to match the concept of the room to make the look more cohesive. Appliances and light fixtures are sleek, clean cut, and make the most of water and energy. Using reclaimed materials for functional surfaces and decoration is a trendy way to optimize modernity while remaining economical.

Craftsmen Home Improvements, Inc.

Color is Key

White has always been a popular color for modern kitchens because of its ability to give off a feeling of openness. Surprisingly, blue is popping up in more and more contemporary kitchens. These bright colors positioned around a central island or a gracefully curved bar can enhance the cohesiveness of a kitchen. Bright blue and white create an almost optical illusion by making the room look bigger than it actually is. Brightly colored appliances and even silver tiles and fixtures can provide another pop of color and heighten the vibrancy of the space.

Find a Reputable Contractor

These design trends echo the principles established in earlier design periods. However, an open plan kitchen and living room require careful thought and planning. Contracting with a reputable firm such as Craftsmen Home Improvements can ensure that a homeowner’s dream space becomes a reality. The dedicated professionals work with their clients every step of the way to provide accurate budgets, high quality materials and seasoned expertise. Be sure to do research on your contractor before you make your selection. It is important to find a respected and skilled contractor that you can trust.

Contact Craftsmen Home Improvements Request An Estimate