Kitchen Products for Your New Home!

Appliances: How To Decide
You don't want to begin your journey looking for kitchen appliances unprepared. Because an appliance showroom is packed with products, it can be an overwhelming experience if you don't know exactly what you want.
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Kitchen Sinks and Faucets
It wasn't long ago when homeowners had two choices when it came to selecting a new kitchen sink: cast iron or stainless steel. There were fewer choices of colors or shapes and no options for customized sink accessories. Today, homeowners have a multitude of sink choices to help personalize their kitchen.
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Refrigerators

Don't go overboard on all the fancy new features available on the new refrigerators. The sole purpose of a refrigerator is to keep your food fresh, beverages cold, and icebox chilled. What you should be looking for when you are looking at refrigerators is the amount of free space, accessibility, and practical special features. The cubic footage is the first important thing. As a rule of thumb start with the smallest size of ten cubic feet for two people and add one cubic foot for each additional family member. As a general rule, when you are looking for a refrigerator, you will find that most appliance dealers carry about five different sizes that vary from 15 cu. ft. to 26 cu. ft. So you will need to choose the size they carry that is closest to what you need. They may even be able to order the size you want or something close to it. If you like to keep your refrigerator well stocked, you may as well choose a larger refrigerator to start with.

Look at the features that will keep your food fresh. Separate temperature and humidity controls for the different compartments can help keep food fresher. If you want ice and water, know that you will have a little less space. There are different options for ice and water available now on different refrigerator styles that are beneficial.

The three models available are top freezer, bottom freezer and side-by-side. A top-freezer is the lowest priced and usually has the most usable room. Icemakers are available for the freezer. A bottom-freezer will offer pretty much the same usable space, but will offer easier refrigerator access since the refrigerator would start at waist height. They are a little higher in price and have the option of adding an icemaker to the freezer. There is now a bottom-freezer French-door model available that offers the icemaker in the freezer and a water dispenser inside the left door on the side with a water filter. A side-by-side is usually the highest priced model, but offers ice and water on the front of the door. Access is more convenient, but much narrower. The freezer space is limited because of the narrowness. All models come with different features and are priced accordingly. Shelves will adjust, slide, crank, have covers, spill-proof glass, wire, and etc. Other features can be wine racks, refreshment centers, digital and computerized accessories, humidity controls for crispers, night lights, and a multitude of other creative ideas. You can now even get a refrigerator with a built-in LCD screen that provides Internet access and satellite TV.

Prices ranges:
Top-freezer: $600 - $900
Bottom-freezer: $900 - $1500
Side-by-side: $1000 - $2000
Any of these in a built-in model (not including panels): $3500 - $5000

Whirlpool offers a wide variety of refrigerators. The sleek design of the refrigerator may fit flush with kitchen counters for a streamlined look, without sacrificing capacity.

Specialty

If you're looking for something special you might want to check out separate cold storage units such as wine chillers, under-counter refrigerators, drawer refrigerators and ice makers.

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Ovens

Conventional, convection, microwave, and combination are the choices you have for your new oven. What are they and what are the differences?

What is Conventional?
A conventional oven heats mainly on electromagnetic waves that radiate from the sides of the oven. The heat radiates through the oven naturally - warm air rises and is replaced by cooler air, which then rises and is replaced. This is the lowest cost oven with an average cost of $850. The problem with this type of oven is that if you do much baking, you will find that the heat does not distribute equally causing the food on the lower rack to cook quicker than the food on the top rack.

What is Convection?
A convection oven cooks faster than conventional. It works basically the same as a conventional oven, but uses a fan to circulate the heat evenly. This results in more even and faster cooking on all racks. The odors and tastes of different foods will not mix in a convection oven, so you can cook different foods together. Since the air circulates for even distribution you will not have to move things around in the oven to get even cooking. You will have to get used to the oven cooking faster though. Recipe times will need to be adapted. Some new conventional ovens come with a chart you can refer to. Some have an auto adjustment on their digital display that will reset the appropriate time for you when you put the recipes conventional oven time in. The average convection oven cost is $1300.

The innovative Polara(tm) refrigerated range combines cooling and cooking in one appliance. So you can keep dinner cool until you're ready to cook-while you're still miles from your kitchen.

How does a Microwave cook?
Microwaves cook by getting water molecules in the food moving in a rapidly alternating electrical field. In order to cook effectively it is recommended that your microwave operate on 750 to 1,000 watts. Most microwaves come with programmed buttons for specific foods, which is helpful since microwaves cook food much faster than ovens. Microwaves are usually used as a cooking accessory to heat side dishes and warm-up leftovers. They do not cook to the same taste and texture that an oven does. Depending on the size and brand, a microwave can cost from $100 to $500.

What is a Combination oven?
Combination ovens combine the advantages of different types of ovens. Some examples are conventional oven with convection option, microwave that can be used as a halogen light cooker for quicker cooking time, and convection oven that can also be used as a microwave to brown food to look like it was cooked in a conventional oven. Combination ovens allow for quicker cooking options, but are more expensive. These ovens start around $1500.

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Not All Kitchens Are Created Equal

Merillat offers ways to make the most out of a kitchen Island

For prospective new homebuyers, the kitchen can make or break the sale. This was determined in Merillat's study, Model Behavior: How people, think, act and shop in a model home. The study, the first-of-its-kind, examined the key motivations and actions of homebuyers.

The study found that new home shoppers ranked the kitchen as extremely important. In fact, of the shoppers studied, only three percent indicated that they would return to the house for a second visit or consider purchasing the home if they didn't like the kitchen.

"The kitchen is the gathering place for special occasions, family functions and day-to-day activities, which is why it is so important to prospective buyers to ensure that the kitchen meets the needs of their family from a design and functionality prospective," said Karen Strauss, Masco Builder Cabinet Group president.

Kitchen Feature Shoppers Liked Most Certain features in the kitchen caught the eye of prospective homebuyers and drew them into the kitchen. Among those features, islands were the most cited 'wow' factor.

"The island is a great opportunity to add function, style and personality," said Strauss. "This specialty area attracted a great deal of attention and sparked conversations by shoppers."

The Functionality of the Kitchen Island Kitchen islands offer much more than visual appeal, they lend themselves to multiple functions such as storage, convenience, additional workspace and even comfort.

"One way to put the island to work, is by incorporating dual height surfaces," said Paul Radoy, manager of design services for Merillat. "Dual height countertops can provide separate work surfaces, such as a cutting prep area. They can also be used as a serving or buffet area." Radoy added, that dual heights allow for seating at an informal dining area, satisfying homeowners with children, or anyone who entertains. Seating areas can also be taken one step further by incorporating a table into the island, this allows for a more formal seating arrangement.

Adding organizational features is another way to make an island as functional as possible. Pull-out waste baskets, cutting board kits and spice drawer inserts are just a few features that can make an island prep area more efficient. The island workspace can become even more streamlined when essentials such as sinks, cook tops or dishwashers are incorporated into the design.

The Beauty of the Kitchen Island
In addition to the function, most homeowners love the look of an island; however, many overlook its true potential. By adding decorative elements, the island becomes the perfect vehicle for increasing the kitchen's overall style and personality.

"A high-end look can easily be accomplished by contrasting the island with the other cabinetry in the kitchen," said Radoy. "Simply using a different cabinetry style, wood specie or finish on the island adds visual interest." However, in some cases the homeowner may prefer the island to seamlessly match the other cabinetry. In this case, visual interest can still be accomplished by adding details like a built-in wine rack, open display shelves or glass front doors.

Merillat also offers decorative accents that work to enhance cabinetry style and design with details such as feet, legs, corbels, ornamental onlays and molding inserts. These decorative details can change the look of an ordinary island into heirloom furniture, turning an average kitchen into something exceptional.

Islands for any Kitchen
Whether the kitchen is big or small, homeowners of today expect their kitchens to accommodate their busy, multi-tasking lives. They want islands that can handle a variety of activities from cooking, to entertaining, to family time. However, when designing a kitchen island, the most important point to keep in mind is - how are the homeowners going to live in their kitchens and how do they intend to use their islands. Moreover, by incorporating Merillat design elements, a kitchen island can become a functional focal point.

Source thehousedesigners.com

Kitchen Sinks and Faucets

In today's world there are many styles and colors to choose from when purchasing a new sink for your home. The only available choices in the past were cast iron and stainless steel in very few sizes and colors. You could not order a customized sink and you had to design around what was available. Now you can select a sink to fit your design as well as faucets to compliment that style. Here is a guide to some of the choices that are out there for consideration.

The least expensive and most popular option is stainless steel. Concern yourself with quality though; don't just choose the cheapest one. It is best to find a sink that is from 18- to 20-gauge steel. The lower the gauge, the heavier and more durable the steel will be. Content of the steel can also affect its quality. The best combination to look for is 18% chrome and 8% nickel. Chrome adds strength and nickel prevents corrosion.

Stainless steel will compliment commercial-style appliances and can be molded as a continuous part of a stainless steel countertop that will not chip and is easy to clean. It will show scratches quickly and easily. Over time this will develop a natural patina, but this does take time. Choose a satin textured finish if you picked a thin gauge. Thin will dent and make noise and a satin finish can help with this. These sinks are made for under-mount and drop-in models. If you choose an under-mount stainless steel sink, be sure that your countertop is made of a solid material and not a laminate. Otherwise, water exposure can cause separation and bubbling. Average cost of a stainless steel sink is between $350-$800.

Cast Iron Sinks feature an iron base coated with an enamel finish. There are many colors to choose from in a cast iron sink. They are prone to chipping, which will expose the black surface that is beneath the color. Then you will have to deal with rusting and staining. Cast iron sinks are pretty much the most difficult to install because they are very heavy and bulky. There is limited under-mount installation available for them. Expect to pay $300 to $1500.

Composite sinks have three common forms: polyester/acrylic, quartz composite, and granite-based. Polyester/acrylic will scratch, cut, nick, and stain the easiest because they are made from soft materials. Many people still choose them because of the multitude of color options available. These are the lowest cost at $300 to $500. Quartz composite sinks have a much more durable surface. It is made of 70% quartz and 30% resin filler. They can resist much of the everyday cuts, scuffs, and dents; and can withstand harsh cleaning materials or liquids the other sinks can't. Granite-based sinks are the strongest on the market, but are also much pricier. They will not scratch, rust, dent, burn, or crack. Granite-based sinks are only available in matte finish, so if you really want a glossy finish you will want to consider a different type.

Solid Surface sinks are made from solid synthetic sheets, which are formed by mixing a mineral compound with polyester and/or acrylic resins. The nice part of these sinks is that you can have them molded from the same piece of solid surface that you use on your countertop. They come in many colors and designs. If they scratch, you can sand them out. The average cost is around $300 to $700.

Types of Sinks
The least expense and most common option is the self-riming sink. The edges lap the countertop.

The edges are hidden in an under-mount and integral sink. An under-mount attaches below the countertop and an integral is made from the same material as the countertop and fused without seams. Stainless steel, solid surface, and composite materials are flexible enough to mold integral sinks. Both of these sinks offer a clean look and easy cleanup since there are no rims to push crumbs over.

Farmhouse sinks, otherwise known as apron sinks, have an exposed front that sometimes stick out past the front of the cabinet a bit. These are most often used in kitchens with a rustic or country-style decor. The bowl itself is typically deeper than the average sink. They normally do not have a deck. The faucets and other accessories are mounted directly to the countertop right behind the sink bowl.

Note: If you choose a flat-bottomed sink and steep, straight sidewalls, you'll greatly increase the space around the sink for usability.

Sink Styles
The most common sinks are single bowl, double bowl, triple bowl, and main sink plus prep sink.

Single bowls are best for small spaces where you are tight on space or if you like a larger single sink area for rinsing large pans.

Double-bowl sinks have two bowls that are the same size. You usually wash in one side and rinse in the other. You can also get these with one large and one smaller bowl to use as a prep sink to clean fruits and vegetables.

Triple-bowl sinks combine the possible single and double bowl functions by giving two larger, but same size, bowls and also the smaller prep bowl. Most commonly the garbage disposal is built into the smaller bowl.

Prep sinks alone are most often placed in a separate area from the main kitchen sink. They are on kitchen islands or close to the stove. This offers convenient prep cooking.

Sink Accessories
There are some convenient accessories available for your kitchen sink if you spend a lot of time preparing and cooking food. There are cutting boards that fit securely on the sink's sides with holes to scrape the scraps through; it is handy to use this on a sink that has a garbage disposal. Other accessories are available, such as colanders to hang on the side, garbage disposals, dish racks that fit in the basins, and hot water dispensers.

A note about garbage disposals - you want a high horsepower garbage disposal that can handle tough foods like meat scraps. If you're worried about noise using a larger horsepower, just be sure you have a wide dampening collar, because it greatly reduces the noise.

Faucets
In general your faucet will have its own style based on the shape of its handle or handles, its height and its accessories. Keep in mind that your faucet should be chosen to compliment the architectural theme you've created with your countertops, cabinetry and appliances. Faucets also offer a lot in the way of options - adjustable heights, spray and swivel features and multiple colors and finishes.

Don't forget about your sink when you choose your faucet, because if you have a self-rimming sink it comes with predrilled holes so you'll need to make sure your faucet will fit. You can pick any faucet you like if your sink is undermounted or integral, because the holes are drilled by the installer after you've picked out your faucet.

Here's a few things to consider to help choose a faucet that's right for you.
Handles
Handles should be chosen to compliment your kitchen. The traditional style is a two-handled faucet with one knob for hot water and the other for cold water, which allows for independent control of both. However, faucets with one handle are becoming increasingly popular because you can enjoy the convenience of single-handedly controlling your water temperature and volume. Handles come in a thousand varieties, from cross-handles to wrist-blade lever styles.

Finish
Look for a long-lasting, low maintenance finish to compliment your decor. Your choices are quite extensive and include chrome plating, nickel plating, white enamel, brass, colored epoxy, platinum, porcelain, bronze, stainless steel and gold or silver. The favored finishes are chrome and brass because they are easy to maintain and very durable. A word of caution if you go with brass - it requires a special protective coating to prevent it from tarnishing. For lots of color options and easy cleanup go with an epoxy finish.

Material
When it comes to the faucet's main material, your two best options are solid brass or plastic. Solid brass comes highly recommended because it is a much tougher material than plastic and can handle extreme temperatures. Internally, your faucet will control the flow of water using either rubber washers, a plastic or ceramic cartridge, a plastic, brass, or stainless steel ball valve, or a ceramic disk. A ceramic disk is recommended for the same reasons as solid brass.

Spout and spray
A basic kitchen faucet has a standard spout that rises only slightly in height from the faucet body to its tip. A high-arc faucet (also known as high-neck or gooseneck) has a spout that increases dramatically in height, often as high as ten inches or more. This allows for easy rinsing of large pots and presents an elegant look in any kitchen.

Note: If your design calls for a sink with two or three bowls, the length and flexibility of the spout is important. A long spout with a reach of 12- to 14-inches may be called for, as well as one that swivels at least 180 degrees to reach the different bowls. Spouts can be straight, short, elongated, curved, and high-rise, with an integrated spray that pulls out or pulls down.

It's hard to imagine a kitchen faucet that doesn't have some kind of retractable sprayer for washing vegetables and rinsing large pots, which is why almost all faucet manufacturers sell a system with a sprayer - a traditional side sprayer or a modern pullout spray.

Dripless Faucets
Think longevity when you're installing anything that has to do with water. Consider how long a new faucet will last without dripping. Faucets should offer long-term performance and be drip-free for life - of course the operative word is should. To help minimize the chances of dripping it is best to use ceramic disc valving, because it's very durable and leak resistant.

Scald Protection
This may not seem that important to you if you don't have children, but you may someday, so why not add an anti-scald feature to your faucet for a few more dollars.

Look for quality
An inexpensive faucet may look as good as the more expensive one, but don't be fooled - it won't last long. Your flag should go up when plastic is used on integral parts, washers are controlling the flow of water (should have ceramic disks or replaceable cartridges) and are lightweight. Plumbing bills will be far more costly down the road, than purchasing a high quality faucet from day one.

Get enough holes
When you buy a new sink, you'll need to decide how many holes you will need in the "deck" - the flat part behind the bowls. Depending on the style of faucet you choose, you will need one to three holes to accommodate the taps and spigot. More holes will be needed for a hot-water dispenser, a spray accessory (if it's not part of the faucet) or a built-in soap dispenser. It's difficult, but not impossible, to add holes once the sink is in place, so get as many as you think you'll ever need.

Off-set drains
By placing the drains to one side you'll gain more flat space for stacking dishes and glasses and create more usable space under the sink. Offset drains also allow water to drain, even if a large pan or tray is soaking in the sink.

Web or divider
For double bowl sinks, make sure the web divider between the two bowls is lower than the outside sink walls. This will provide overflow protection by allowing water to flow from one bowl to the other.

Trends in Faucets and Sinks
Bigger is better, when it comes to kitchen sinks. The new trend in the kitchen is installing a large, single-bowl sink - which is more efficient for rinsing and washing, especially large pots and pans. The standard single bowl sink is 25 inches, but now people are looking for bowls that are 30 to 36 inches.

Rims are out! The majority of new homeowners are spending the extra money (about a couple hundred more) to get an undermounted or integral sink. It not only looks great, but it is very functional.

Pullout spray faucets and satin nickel or stainless steel finishes are very popular. Another trend is towards decorative faucets, which help add a little spice to your kitchen. If you want a sleeker style and finish, then satin nickel or oil-rubbed bronze are worth checking out. Oil-rubbed bronze is a unique finish which gives a weathered, natural look that changes into a nice patina. For a more rustic/country look you can go for a farm or apron sink.

People like the idea of having a sink on the island where the cooktop is because they won't have to worry about dripping back and forth from the sink to the stove. For an added touch on your island you can get a small basin installed. It may look like just a pottery bowl, but it has real plumbing and is attached to the wall.

Pot-filler faucets are also becoming popular, because people don't want to have to keep running back to the sink to fill a pot. This faucet is attached right by the stove and folds back against the wall when you're not using it.

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Kitchen Countertops

Two decades ago, choosing a countertop was not at all difficult. You chose from less than twenty variations on color of plastic laminate. It was simple. Today the interest and desire of consumers to have a more practical style of countertop has revolutionized the market. Countertops are no longer merely a work surface, but a key element in the design and luxury of your home.

Around the world, manufacturers now offer numerous different styles, color schemes, and materials to match any desire of the consumer. The kitchen is the focal point of any home. Now you have the means to construct the perfect look.

When limited to only a few choices, making a decision was quite easy. When choosing from possibly hundreds of styles, you may become overwhelmed. You may discover the decision to be quite difficult. In this case, here is a descriptive list of products to aid in your decisions toward a perfect kitchen.

Plastic Laminate: Price if compared at $25 to $50 per linear foot installed.
Plastic lamination was the beginning of modernized kitchen. This particular material is by far the most inexpensive and is available in almost all colors and textures. There are four major manufacturers of plastic laminate- Wilsonart, Formica, Nevamar, and Pionite. Each offers hundreds of styles. For an extra amount of cash, you can have your plastic laminate customized. This means matching your own color, texture, and style. One of the pros of this material is that it is very easy to clean, but the con is that cuts or scratches are difficult to repair. An entire counter surface can be installed from $600 to $1800 in most cases. Tip: If you plan to match your countertop and backsplash, inform your installer when ordering so he has enough material and possibly gives you a discount.

Ceramic and Porcelain Tile: Price is compared at $50 to $80 per linear foot installed. Plain colored tiles compare at $2 to $40 per tile. Hand painted tiles compare at $5 to $75 per tile.

If you are trying to create an artistic or specific look in your kitchen, ceramic and porcelain tile is the key. You can accomplish looks from contemporary to retro when working with these materials. If you are unsure of the design and style wanted, most stores will have showrooms to help you choose. Rustic, timeworn, and stone style surfaces are a current trend. If selecting from one of these looks, it is a good idea to ask the designer or salesperson to see several pieces of tile from the same lot. This will allow you to compare color variations from piece to piece.

Porcelain tiles may be a bit more expensive, but the material will handle wear and tear well without losing its ceramic style. Porcelain is the hardest fired product you can find.
A con to installing porcelain tiles is grout lines. It seems no one invests the proper time and energy intended to keep grout clean. Grout requires routine cleaning and care, but is very easy to clean.

Corian and Solid Surfacing: Price is compared at $75 to $150 a linear foot installed.
Dupont manufactures the most readily available and widely known 100% synthetic countertop material. This is Corian. Other manufacturers such as Wilsonart, Formica, and Avenite also produce a variety of styles. Corian is known as a solid surfacing material. It will be made from a pure acrylic product or a polyester-acrylic mix. Although there are some solid colored materials, most have a real stone texture produced by small flecks. The real stone texture is more expensive. The pro of the solid material is that the surface is scratch resistant. If you do get a scratch it can be sanded out. Deep scratches will require replacement of the damaged piece.

Concrete Slab: Price is compared at $50 to $100 per square foot poured.
Concrete is a very old material that is a new trend. It may be purchased in pre-formed sections or poured and formed on-site. Having the concrete poured and formed on-site is appropriate for unusually shaped counters. Although concrete is an old material it has an unusually high price. Because it is susceptible to cracking and its constructive look, consumers are weary about using the product indoors. On the plus side, concrete can be stained to match any color desired.

Granite: Price is compared at $75 to $200 per linear foot installed.
Granite is a timeless countertop surface. Not only does the product stand the test of time, granite slabs greatly increase the value of your home. Therefore, granite is the most expensive of all countertop types. The type, quality, and availability of the material, as well as the edge finish will all affect the price you are going to pay. A popular edge finish is a 1-1/2 inch bull nose, but find out from your fabricator when pricing the material to find out the style of edge included.

Granite is a very practical material due to the near impossibility of damaging the surface stone.

If the price is just too extreme, but you can't resist the look and style, look into granite tiles. A 12-inch square tile contributes identical resistance to that of solid slab. You can also reduce the size of grout by butt-jointing the tiles. Also, you can achieve the same basic look and style of solid granite by combining dark colored granite with dark colored grout.

Composite Stone: Price is compared at $110 to $250 per linear foot installed.

Now, composite stone material is the granite rival. The stone is a synthetic composite made from 90% quartz particles and 10% acrylic or epoxy binder. It is even difficult to decipher between the looks of real stone, composite, and granite. Because the composites are man-made, there is no chance of variation as in granite or marble. Therefore the material does not need to be sealed. Using the same process- Silestone, Okite, CaesarStone, and Dupont's Zodiaq are the major manufacturers. The only difference among these companies are the variations in color and texture. Together they offer over 130 countertops, all of which are scratch resistant. They can stain if not cleaned properly.

Butcher Block: Price compared at $30 per square foot.
Ordinarily comprised from rock maple, it can also be made from oak and cherry or mixed and exotic species. Although the surface it explicit for cutting and chopping, knife marks will show and the surface is also prone to water damages. Tip: If placing the butcher block by a sink, apply several coats of sealant.

Stainless Steel: Price compared at $150 per linear foot.
For a professional style or restaurant appearance, steel is perfect. The stainless steel is an alloy containing minute amounts of chromium for its rust resistant surface. Because of its thinness, it is attached to plywood, which provides strength, and helps mute the sound. The pros of steel are that it is stainless, heat resistant, and easily cleaned. The cons may be far and beyond for some. Fabrication is extremely costly and difficult. It shows scratches, fingerprints, dents, and can be rather noisy work surface. Also, if you tire of the look and style in the future, it is quite difficult to change or replace.

Soapstone (Steatite): Price compared at $55 per square foot.
Historically, soapstone was used in kitchen sinks. Generally it is a dark gray color, smooth to the touch, and respectively stain and burn resistant. It does however need to be treated on a regular basis with mineral oil.

Trendy Countertops

Designers and dealers get together yearly to discuss upcoming trends and exciting new ideas in home decorating. New and extravagant ideas have arisen in the kitchen. High tech laminates, stainless steel, and the mixing of all of the above materials for an artistic and personal design are among the many new ideas. Yet, the latest in cutting-edge technology is cement.

Countertops, Countertops, Countertops

Integrated drain boards and hydraulic lifts that let you access variations in height are helping designed countertops to be as functional and practical as ever. "Surface energy" is the combination of several countertops and a variety of styles and materials. Surface energy has prevented high functionality in the past, but today design pros are embracing new ways to cope.

A Bit of Last Minute Advice

In the end, you want to choose a countertop material that suits you and your home. Remember that none of the materials are trouble-free. Scratching and periodic resealing will apply to certain materials. All of them will stain if not properly cared for. The only material that does not stain is stainless steel, but it does scratch and the look isn't for everyone.

Tile and granite should be tested out before installing. Certain tile may dull when in contact with vinegar or other foods and chemicals. Test the surface before choosing a specific design. Granite can also contain irregularities. Although they are not noticeable on a 4x4 inch sample, it is best to meet the fabricator upon purchasing and choose the slab yourself.

Backsplash

A backsplash can include wall, sink, and prep area protection which makes the surfaces easy to clean. Once you have chosen a countertop, you will want to decide on the desired look of your backsplash. The overall look of your kitchen can be enhanced by a creative backsplash.

Here is information on some popular backsplash materials and their cost and installation.

Ceramic: Price is compared at $2 per square foot for machine-made tiles. Hand-made tiles compare at $20 per square foot. Mass produced tile murals compare at $45 for a six-tile pattern. Labor and installation is compared at $2.50 to $8.50 per square foot.

If you want versatility, ceramic is the way to go. Its shape, size, and color are among the greatest offers of all backsplash materials. Some different possibilities with ceramic include- a matte finish, a glossy finish, raised edges, textured areas for dimension, ability to rotate tiles, combining different shapes and sizes, and accenting. All of these possibilities can really accent your kitchen.


Stone Tile (Granite and Marble): Price is compared at $10 per square foot and up.
Granite and marble tiles come in multiple colors and textures. A new trend is tumbled marble in 4-inch squares. Because of abrasion and acid wash, it has a pitted surface area with softened colors.

Solid Surfacing: Price is compared at $25 to $30 per linear foot for loose. Integral backsplashes compare at $45 to $50. Full-heights compare at $75 per linear foot.

Solid surfacing can be costly due to the amount of wasted material upon installation. If you chose a solid surface countertop for your kitchen you can ask the fabricator if there are enough materials left over to make a backsplash. This way the fabricator does not have to waste left over and you just may get a backsplash for free.

Metal and Metal Laminates: Price is compared at $140 to $160 per square foot for copper or zinc. Stainless steel compares at $20 per square foot. With less metal material, prices compare at $8 per square foot. Fabrication and installation prices compare at $10.
Fabricators can create a backsplash from any sheet metal. This includes copper, steel, zinc, brass, and nickel. Surface textures include hammered, ribbed, and quilted. The problem with metal laminates is finding a fabricator that specializes in sheetmetal backsplashes.

Make a Splash
Picture the area around and above your countertop as a blank canvas. You or your designer can choose from endless textures and materials that will artistically define your kitchen. Glass, hand-painted porcelain, luxury tiles, gleaming metal, risen dimensional, and natural stones are among the possibilities. Mix, match, and accent away.

Source thehousedesigners.com

Kitchen Cabinets

Cabinets are the key ingredient in any kitchen. They will influence the look and feel of the heart of your home more than anything else because it's not only the most visible part of the kitchen, but the "Meeting Place" of every home. Picking the right cabinetry is essential in creating your kitchen's personality. Here's a little Cabinetry 101 to help you get started choosing the right products for your cabinet design.

Stock, Semi-Custom and Custom Cabinets
When you think stock, semi-custom and custom, don't think of these choices in terms of the level of quality, because fine cabinetry is available with all three - as is poor quality. These terms simply designate the type of production method used to make the cabinet. Simply put, stock cabinets are mass-produced, semi-custom are stock cabinets that can be slightly altered and custom cabinets are built to order to meet individual needs and specifications. All three varieties are available in framed (a box with a frame surrounding the front edge) and frameless (a box with no face frame) construction. The cost of having your kitchen cabinets can start around $7,000 to $9,000 for stock and $14,000 to $18,000 for custom. With the amount of styles, materials, brand names, accessories and hardware out there, the price can quickly escalate.

Stock Cabinets
These are the plentiful cabinets, because they're produced in large quantities on a mass production scale. Cabinet manufacturers, dealers and home improvement centers stock pile large quantities of cabinet parts so cabinets can be assembled quickly. Not wanting to miss out on a piece of the pie, stock cabinet manufacturers have greatly improved and expanded its product line to include a nice bounty of sizes, shapes, styles, wood species and finishes. The drawback to using stock cabinets is that you can't make any modifications, so what you see is what you get. You may also find you come up a little short in width and height (filler strips are used to fill the gaps). Stock cabinets still remain the most popular choice because they're affordable and readily available.

Semi-Custom Cabinets
Semi-custom cabinets are a stock line of cabinets where simple modifications will be made at the time of production. Semi-custom also offers you more choices when it comes to style, construction materials and colors. You can be a little more creative when going semi-custom by choosing some unique built-ins like pullout bins, lazy susans, matching interiors and inverted frames. Be sure to ask the manufacturer if this option is available. Be thorough with semi-custom because changes can be very expensive and increase delivery time (which is already a month or more) and they may not be returnable if they don't fit.

Custom Cabinets
Don't be fooled by the word custom or think that you will be able to draw a design and have it made to your specifications, because that is hard to find (and very, very costly). In the real world of manufactured cabinetry, custom can mean anything from slight modifications to elaborate add-ons. Most manufacturers start out with a basic product line offering cabinets in standard sizes and customize from there. The big difference between a semi-custom and a custom manufacturer is the number of changes they are willing to make to their product lines. Most manufacturers offer a large selection of finish options, trims and storage configurations and accessories. Be patient if you go custom because it can take 12 weeks or longer before your cabinets are delivered and in many cases payment in full is required when the order is placed.

Cabinet Doors

You should enter the cabinet selection process through the doors. Their style, color, and decoration will contribute most to your cabinets' overall look. Be sure that your countertops, flooring, and other design elements complement the cabinets you choose. The first thing you need to decide is the material you want to use and how you want to finish it off.

Wood
Wood doors remain the preferred entree, not just because they're so plentiful but because they're durable, beautiful and versatile. The top woods are oak, maple, cherry, hickory and pine. If you're having a hard time deciding what natural wood you prefer, ask yourself what kind of grain you like. If you prefer a hardwood with a tight grain and a strong pattern that darkens when exposed to light, you'll want to go with cherry. Maple is a light hardwood with a tight grain and less noticeable pattern, while oak is a light hardwood with an open grain and striped pattern. For a more open grain with a strong pattern and random knots you can go for pine - just remember it's a soft wood and shows dents and scratches easily. The odd wood out is hickory because it has very dramatic grain patterns and color variations.

Shaping The Door - Slab, Raised and Recessed Panels
When it comes to deciding the shape of your cabinet doors you can choose to go flat, raised or recessed in a pattern that can be plain and simple or intricately carved. Slab is a flat door style that gives the appearance of a solid piece of wood with no raised or recessed profile. They're usually made out of several pieces of solid stock lumber and joined with an adhesive. If you opt for laminate slab you'll get a door made of substrate material and then covered with laminate. The best way to understand the look of a recessed panel is to think of a picture frame with a flat panel. The frame can be attached to the panel by using a mitered joint, tenon and mortise joint (similar to tongue and groove) or cope and pattern joint. These panels are easy to decorate and popular when made with a groove. A raised panel is constructed in the same manner as a recessed panel except it's given an edge by cutting it dimensionally and then routing or shaping the desired edge profile, like square, Cathedral or arched.

Finishing it off
Thanks to hi-tech finishing techniques used by cabinet manufacturers, cleaning your cabinets is no longer a major household chore.

By using polyurethane finishes, particularly those that are heat catalyzed, your cabinets should only require a good dusting or wiping. Think longevity, when you choose your finish, because a clear finish will show the natural changes in wood over time, while staining the wood in its natural color will lock that shade in forever.

Behind The Doors

Know All Your Panels - Side, Back, Top and Bottom
Now that you've satisfied your taste - aesthetically speaking - it's time to get practical and learn about what's behind the doors. After all, a cabinet is just a box...and the quality of the cabinet lies in the construction of the box, not the door. As a rule, when it comes to cabinetry - you get what you pay for. High-end cabinets are usually always high quality and low cost cabinets are just that - poor quality. The majority of cabinet manufacturers offer several different levels of prices based on quality. Don't forget why you need cabinets in the first place - storage.

Your storage area is usually combined of a series of individual boxes, joined together side-by-side. Boxes that sit on the floor (base cabinets) are covered with a countertop, and may have all drawers, doors, shelves, pull-outs or a combination of these. Sink bases almost always have doors, but no shelves or drawers, leaving the interior space open for the sink and plumbing.

Boxes that hang on the wall, are called wall cabinets, and offer storage above countertops and appliances using shelves.

The panels (sides) that make up the box need to have enough strength and structural integrity to keep the box from falling apart. In the base cabinet, the side panels support the full weight of the cabinet on the floor in framed cabinets.

It may surprise you to learn that solid wood is rarely used for cabinet panels. This is because solid wood tends to warp over time when exposed to moisture. Engineered wood, particle board, furniture-grade flakeboard, medium-density fiberboard (MDF) and plywood are more stable than solid wood, and are used in the majority of cabinets. To help make the panels more water-resistant and durable they're usually treated with special chemicals. All of these material have an excellent reputation for durability and screw-holding power, especially plywood. So before you make you're final decision, be sure to look at the quality of its panels - all of them.

It may not sound like a big deal now, but when you start washing dishes or preparing a meal you'll want to know that your toekick board was installed properly. The toekick is a recessed area at the front of the cabinet near the floor that allows you to stand close to the counter. It also adds support to the cabinet floor and keeps unwanted critters out of your cabinets.

Drawers
Your drawers will likely be made of solid wood or MDF, have framed or flat slab fronts and be held together by dovetail, mortise-and tenon or butt joints. Thing big, when you think about your drawers, because that's usually the first place where storage space is never enough. A top drawer should be able to support at least 75 pounds.

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Dishwashers

There are many dishwasher options available these days. Most are very quiet regardless of the sound package you choose compared to older dishwashers. They have many new stylish appearances on the outside as well as additional usage features internally. The rack systems have become better researched and allow more flexibility on dish arrangements. Some dishwashers now have a third rack available specifically for baking sheets that in the past required hand washing.

With new computerized electronics in all but the bottom basic dishwasher of all brands, the efficiency is greatly increased. Dishwashers are now able to sense the amount of water and heat needed to more efficiently reduce waste. They can now even sense the level of cleaning required for the dishes.

The exteriors have also come a long way to look very stylish even with the lower cost machines. The controls are, on many machines, now provided on basic dishwasher packages, placed on the top edge of the door for a much sleeker look and easier viewing, setting, and use. Most all dishwashers are now considered tall tubs. They no longer have a separate toe panel on the bottom and will now blend right in with the kitchen cupboards, although you can still purchase some machines with the toe panel if you desire one.

You may worry that this will be an issue come time that the dishwasher may require servicing, but the lightweight simple installation of them will not cause a problem down the road for servicing unless you have customized a kitchen floor after the dishwasher is installed that it is higher than the bottom of the dishwasher. (This is a flooring note that you should consider, before installing your kitchen appliances). All dishwashers are standard size regardless of brand at this time. You can go to any local appliance dealer or online and print out dishwasher specifications of any built in dishwasher to learn the minimum and maximum height, width, and depth requirements.

When you are given the more expensive option of a stainless steel interior, don't let the salesperson persuade you with the myth of a stainless steel lining being better or higher class. In truth, the main reason that people choose stainless steel is based on the fact that in some areas, the water is very hard, notably high in sulfur, and is damaging to plastic in long term. If you are in an area with decent water or city water, the additional cost is not necessary. Stainless steel is actually harder to keep clean. There are products available if you just have trouble with iron staining or similar issues that you can drop in the dishwasher and run every couple months to easily remove this discoloration without scrubbing.

Depending on the additional features you choose for your dishwasher, expect to pay between $300 and $1500.

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Cooktops

There are a variety of cooktop styles to choose from. They range in price and requirements. The choices are gas burners, electric coils, glass ceramic surfaces, and modular burners.

Gas Cooktops
Gas burners heat with natural gas or propane. They are rated on the BTU (British thermal units) usage, which is the heating power. The higher the BTU rating, the quicker foods and liquids will heat. This can be demonstrated by the time is takes to boil water.

Higher BTU ratings will increase the cost of the cooktop unit. If you plan to use it for just everyday cooking, 9,000 BTU would be acceptable. For high heat needs, such as sauteing, stir-fry, and etc, 12,000 BTU or more will be needed. A high-powered cooktop is normally considered as pro-style. You may also want some of the burner to reduce down to 5,000 BTU for simmering. As a rule of thumb, all new stoves and cooktops are factory made with at least one simmer burner and one boost burner (12,000 BTU or better).

With gas burners you get instant heat and control, rather than waiting for electric to heat up to the temperature you want. All models are now made with electronic ignition. These are safer and more energy efficient than the old-fashion pilot lights.

You are still able to light the burners in the case of a power failure using a match. A word of caution: gas fumes can be very dangerous, so be sure your ventilation and gas-hookup is properly installed and maintained.

Cost for a basic gas cooktop ranges from $300 to $1000. If you purchase from a local dealer, you may find that installation and delivery are included.

They will normally become your future service provider also. Keep in mind that although the appliance has a warranty from the manufacturer, you may have a difficult time finding a service provider in your area if you have not made the purchase from the local dealer.

Electric Coil Cooktops
Electric black coils are metallic tubes covered with insulation that create heat through electrical resistance. The heat moves from the coils to the pot or pan through conduction and radiation. Coils usually cook faster than gas, so if you are using them for the first time, start out with lower temperatures and work up until you get a feel for how quickly they heat. This way you will be less likely to burn your first meal on the new cooktop. Coils are easier to clean and repair. They are normally the lowest cost in electric cooktops for the purchase and repair. Most coil cooktops start around $200.

Glass Ceramic Cooktops
Whether you opt for radiant, halogen or magnetic induction, they all heat up using electricity. The flat, glass ceramic surface has patterns to indicate where to place your cookware. They operate using knobs or a touch pad.

Ceramic cooktops are very easy to clean and keep clean. They give a stylish appearance to your kitchen. These cooktops are equipped with an indicator light to let you know when the cooking areas are still too hot to touch.

It is very important to watch the indicator and be very cautious because you will be unable to tell by looking at the cooking areas if they are still hot. The manufacturers will alert you that any type of pan is safe to use on the cooktop, but it must have a flat bottom.

Pans without a flat bottom can damage the cooktop and be damaged themselves. Steel or cast iron are required if you opt for magnetic induction. If you can't stick a magnet on your cookware, they won't work with this option.

On all glass cooktops you should know two important things...

1. These cooktops will withstand most types of cooking with the exception of boiling sugar water, such as when you make candies. If the boiling sugar water boils over onto the surface, try to clean it immediately as it will bubble, damage, and void the warranty.
   
   
2. Plastic is also a problem, such as bread wrappers. It has been found that if plastic touches the surface while still hot, it melds into the surface and is impossible to remove. Average cost is $500 to $700. Don't let it happen!

Modular Burners
These kinds of burners can run on gas or electricity and allow you to vary the placement of your burners. The benefits to a modular burner are you can use them on an island counter and you can vary the type of cooking you do on the same cooktop. You can expect to pay about $450.

Ranges
A range combines an oven and a cooktop and they generally use the same heat source - gas or electric. A professional-style range affords you the luxury of having a gas burner and electric convection oven. The same pros and cons of oven and cooktop features apply to ranges as well.

When it comes to installation, you can choose from freestanding, slide-in or drop-in. The price varies depending on the style - electric coil ranges will cost between $425-$650; electric smoothtop ranges $650 -$1400; gas burners $550-$2000 and $4000 and up for a pro-style model.

Just as a mental note, keep in mind that all gas appliances are now electric ignition, which is safer and more energy efficient, but in the case of a power outage, you can still light the burners with a match but not the oven.

Ventilation
Grease, smoke, steam, and gas byproducts are always in issue when cooking in your kitchen. The ventilation you choose to address this issue will depend on the layout of the kitchen, your local building codes, and your own personal preference.

The higher the airflow and lower the noise rating will affect the cost of the ventilation hood. Higher CFMs and lower sones will increase the cost.

The CFMs are the cubic feet of air the vent system can move per minute. You can purchase a plain simple vent hood with or without venting to the outside, but if you do a lot of cooking or have planned a stylish kitchen you will most likely prefer either an updraft or downdraft vent hood.

Updraft Vent
An updraft vent is located over a range or cooktop and cleans the air by either pulling the polluted air up by a fan, then through filters and out of your house through a metal duct or by a fan that filters the polluted air and then re-circulates the clean air back into the room. These are very effective and are available in a variety of decorative models. The drawback to this system - they are generally hard to clean and require a filter change regularly. Vents can be as cheap as $100 or as costly as thousands.

Downdraft Vent
The downdraft vent is placed into a base cabinet and expels air by pulling it down through vents located on the sides and back of the cooktop. While appearance may be better, they are not as effective as updraft vents. They only catch the byproducts directly around the vent. Average cost is $500.

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Appliances: How To Decide

Don't be unprepared when you start looking for your new kitchen appliances. There are tons to choose from and it can be overwhelming if you don't already know what you want. Before you shop, know your needs, style preferences, and budget. Here are some helpful tips to get you off to a good start in choosing ovens, cooktops, ranges, refrigerators, ventilation systems, and dishwashers for your kitchen.

The Look

Your appliances should blend with the design of your kitchen. You can order appliances that are specifically designed to be built into your cabinetry and paneled to match your kitchen decor. Stand-alone appliances can also make a decorative statement. A fancy decorative vent hood is not only useful, but can create quite a classy look in your kitchen. Appliances in stainless steel or brushed chrome make a big restaurant quality impression and keep the kitchen bright and open feeling. Placement of the appliances will need consideration in your kitchen design plans. Where they are will affect the cabinetry, counters, and any utility requirements the appliances need, such as electric, gas, or water.

There are several styles available for your appliances. You can get built-in, paneled, freestanding professional-style, freestanding restored or reproduction antiques or standard freestanding models. Stainless steel appliances are neutral and do tend to keep that new look much longer with care and it works very well in all styles of kitchens, from Old World to contemporary to Mediterranean to traditional. Brushed chrome is the latest new trend and is considered equal to stainless steel, but is a little easier to keep clean. A quick helpful tip for those of you who do choose the stainless steel: many people fear stainless steel because it is very difficult to keep clear of fingerprints, but with a very light coating of lemon pledge every once in a while, it will resist prints for up to a week without wiping.

To get that professional or restaurant feel to your kitchen, know ahead of time that it will be costly. Increasing the normal cooking and storage capacity of your kitchen, as well as adding fancy exteriors, can almost double the average cost. Commercial units that you find in restaurants are not rated for use in a residential kitchen because they have special venting requirements for safety. Pro-style appliances are available to give residential kitchens the next best thing. You can get that restaurant quality of greater durability, more precise cooking, and spiffy exteriors and still have a safe kitchen. Some people are avid chefs and spend a lot of time in their kitchens for the love of cooking and food, so some extra cost now may save a lot of frustration in the kitchen later.

When it comes to your stove, you can make a big statement by buying one that has bright colored knobs or a 1930s-style range complete with porcelain enamel surfaces accented with nickel-plated trim. Knowing the look you want will narrow your search rather quickly and set you on course for the more important task of determining what you need from your appliances to effectively and efficiently run your kitchen.

The Scoop on Appliances

Know your cooking needs
You should be able to increase your cooking speed and precision with the appliances you choose. Consider whether you need a pro-style or standard kitchen and if you will need gas or electric. Also consider where will they be located in your kitchen?

Pro-style vs. standard
Know in advance if you need more cooking capacity and capabilities or if you spend less time in the kitchen and can be happier with the standard features of a less costly model.

What are the differences between pro-style and standard?
With a pro-style range, you will get four or more burners with at least 15,000 BTU. A standard range has burners that range from 5,000 to 14,000 BTU. In many standard models, you will get a boost burner most commonly found in the front right hand that will get hotter than the others, for instance it will boil water much quicker than the other burners and a simmer burner that will go down to a lower BTU than the others to keep sauces warm without burning. Pro-style often has cast-iron continuous grates where standard has individual steel grates over each burner. Pro-style usually has large control knobs, but standard will have smaller knobs or a digital control panel. Pro-style ovens will have more oven racks and space, measuring 36 to 60 inches.While standard is a 30 inches.

Gas vs. Electric
Gas allows for more precise temperature control than electric. Electric tends to be lower cost and offers the sleek glass ceramic surface. The ceramic surface is much easier to clean and keep clean than gas burners or electric coils.

Cooktop Placement
You have some options available on the placement of your oven. You can go with a cooktop that can be placed separately from the oven, you can choose a range that has both the oven and cooktop together, or you can have a wall-mounted oven.

To save space and allow more cooking at one time, you can opt for two wall ovens. They can be placed one on top of the other, side-by-side or in two completely different areas in the kitchen.

If you do not use both of the ovens on a regular basis, consider purchasing one of them to use as a combination oven. A combination oven is both a microwave and convection oven.

Warranties
Typically, appliances have a one to five year warranty, but will vary by manufacturer and model.

Energy Efficiency
You can now read the energy efficiency rating of all new major household appliances when you are looking at them on the sales floor. The Federal Trade Commission requires the bright yellow and black Energy Guide labels to be displayed with the annual energy consumption and operating cost information of each appliance.

Trendy Tips
It can't hurt to take time to find ways to make your appliances more accessible, like raising your dishwasher so you don't have to bend down to load and unload it. Check out all the wonderful options available like warming ovens, refrigerators and dishwashers. If you're a pizza lover you might enjoy creating a crusty pizza pie in a pro-type brick oven or if wine is your passion you might want a beverage chiller or storage unit - some even come with a cigar holder. If you're considering a trash compactor, consider moving it to the garage to free up space in the kitchen.

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