Kitchen Renovations

Everybody knows that making home renovations beautifies the home and adds to its usefulness. It also increases the market value of the house and quality of life of the owners. This is especially true when it comes to home improvement projects such as a kitchen renovation.

Let's face it; the kitchen is the central gathering point in the home, morning, noon and night. Not only do family meals originate there, but many homeowners in the Toronto, Montreal, and Calgary and other cities across Canada are increasing the size or design of the kitchen to provide extra space for more relaxed dining. The dining room is then either converted into a more formal area, for entertainment purposes, or else transformed into a den or family room.

Outline Your Goal

If you, like many other homeowners, are planning a kitchen remodeling project to modernize fixtures and upgrade appliances or increase overall space, you are probably a little dazzled and overwhelmed by available options.

To simplify matters, make a list of what your goal is. What is it you want to achieve with renovations? Is it to exchange old appliances for new, provide more cupboard, counter, and storage space, increase floor space, or simply to beautify the room?

Once you've established what your purpose is, consider only those options that will help accomplish it. Don't allow your head to get turned by state-of-the art "kitchenery," or pushy store clerks trying to make a sale.

Following Through

After establishing your purpose for the renovation and deciding upon floor plan design, you will need a materials list to get a better idea of project needs and costs.

If you already haven't, now is a good time to consider hiring a reliable contractor. Contractors are usually the person who creates the materials list. Not only do they have a realistic grasp on what project needs are, but they most probably work with several businesses and can get the best prices on materials

Helpful Tips

Whether you plan on doing all or just part of the kitchen renovations yourself, consider these helpful tips:

1. Take all measurements twice to avoid costly mistakes.
2. Smooth lines and simple patterns make small kitchens appear larger.
3. Neutral and pastel color schemes help create a feeling of more space.
4. If you have older flooring, use caution. Some older vinyl-type flooring materials contain asbestos - creating a hazardous work environment when cut or sanded. Acquiring the services of an experienced floor contractor is your safest option for this type floor removal.
5. A tack rag will prove invaluable for removing dust from work surfaces; purchase one, or make one yourself. Use a 24-inch square of cheesecloth, moistened with water. Add several teaspoons of turpentine. Squeeze out excess; add several drops of varnish. Store in an airtight jar when not in use.
6. When replacing cabinetry, consider covering the range hood with a decorative panel made in the same style as your cabinets. The hood nearly disappears, and the effect stunning.
7. Recessed lighting strategically placed not only looks terrific, but ensures all kitchen work surfaces receive adequate illumination.

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