Facts & Questions

Q:  How do I achieve a timeless kitchen design?
A:  Timeless cabinetry styles such as square-raised panel doors that have been around for a hundred years never quite seem outdated.  Medium finishes can age and darken nicely.  However, the unfortunate fact is that kitchens will become dated like most things in life, and the best advice I can give is to base your purchase on primarily what appeals to you now including the design, wood specie and special features that have been built in to make your kitchen fit your life style as well as the style of your home.

Q:  When building a new house when should the kitchen be planned out?
A:  Unless the person who has drawn up your house plans has done a detailed cabinet drawing & you are satisfied with it you should meet with a kitchen designer prior to the start of the construction so for example if a window needs to get moved to make the cabinet layout work better it can be easily done before the walls are built.  This will help minimize any disappointments when your kitchen is all done.  You should also make sure that who you consult with is knowledgeable and experienced.  Set up an appointment with me and I will help you to visualize your kitchen before construction even begins with our designing software in 3-Dimensional color.

Q:  Which should I choose first – appliances or cabinets?
A:  I advise researching appliances first, prior to getting involved any further in your design project.  This way you can approach your designer with your preferences and let them advise you accordingly.  Purchasing your appliances too early may limit the design choices the designer can offer you, forcing him/her to design around the appliances, and ultimately lowering your chances for getting your dream kitchen.

Q:  What’s the difference between a quartz stone counter top & a granite top?
A:  A granite top is made from natural stone – it will be a porous type of surface requiring to be sealed periodically to keep safe from bacteria & staining.  Being it is a natural type of product its color will vary from piece to piece & will have fissures (small hairline cracks) present in its surface.  With a quartz stone product it will be man made but consisting of in most cases 95% natural quartz stone materials.  It will be non porous therefore not needing to be sealed & will be stain resistant.  It is more consistent in color & will actually be rated stronger than granite.  When considering using one of these types of tops for your kitchen or bath come & see our various displays showing these products to appreciate the beauty of them!

Q:  I have a small kitchen and would like to install an island.  Any recommendations?
A:  If you have a kitchen table that can be eliminated, install the island there.  Otherwise, if you won’t have a minimum 36” clearance between the island and adjacent walls or counters, an island on casters is your best bet.   One that would have a wood top could be used for prep work such as our John Boos Block tables. 

Q:  What is the difference between an integrated sink & an undermounted sink?
A:  An integrated sink is one that does not sit on top of or below the counter top but is level with the deck of the counter top.  Usually an integrated sink will be found as part of a solid surface type of top or a cultured marble vanity top.  Although in the last couple of years you can now have an integrated sink in a laminated top which is more affordable than solid surface & still be able to achieve the same look & benefit.
 An undermounted sink is one that is mounted to the bottom side of a counter top.  The counter top surface will slightly hang over the edge of the sink so it will cover the mounting edge. You will find this type of application in a stone top such as granite or natural quartz stone.   Both types of sink applications will give you a clean look & makes your daily clean up a breeze.

Q:  What are the different counter top heights and what various kitchen tasks will these heights serve?
A:  A 42” high countertop works well for sitting, eating, & some kitchen tasks.  A 36” high countertop handles most kitchen tasks & suits the average-height cook.  Taller cooks may prefer 38” high countertops.  For kneading bread & rolling out pastry a 29” to 31” countertop works well.  It is always best to ask your kitchen designer the pros and cons to all of these heights to make sure what works best for your individual needs.  Make sure to view some displays showing these different heights so you can get a better idea what they are like to work at.

Q:  Are all the cabinets being made today considered to be “Environmentally Friendly?
A:  No, they are not, although as time goes on more and more will be.  As a consumer who is concerned about our environment you need to look for the “KCMA Enviromental Stewardship Program” certified cabinets seal or ask their cabinet supplier if the cabinets fall under this seal.  The KCMA is an association that was created to recognize and encourage industry policies and practices that benefit the environment and society.  Environmental sustainability is the cornerstone of the program, which is unique in that it measures environmental performance in manufacturing, process and products.  Low-emitting materials are required.  At Kitchen, Bath, Etc., all of our cabinets fall under this seal.

Q:  I’m building a new home & have ordered my cabinets.  My supplier says that the cabinets are in but I’m not ready for them to be installed yet.  What is the best way to store them until I’m ready to install?
A:  Cabinets that must be in storage prior to installation must be stored in a controlled climate of approximately 35-40% relative humidity, and away from “extreme” heat and direct sunlight.  Excessive humidity or the absence of adequate humidity could damage your cabinets and may void some manufacturer’s warranty.  For more information contact Kitchen, Bath, Etc.

Q:  When looking for new cabinets what features should I look for?
A:  Look for quality indicators.  Buying the cheapest cabinetry available is rarely the best choice.  When comparing cabinets ask about construction details & look for these signs of lasting quality: Drawers should have solid wood sides & bottoms with dovetailed joints; self closing drawers and tray glides that are undermounted and bear 75-100 pounds each and that feature a soft close operation.   Look for finishes that are similar to fine furniture. And last, what is the written warranty for the cabinets you’re looking at?  How long are they warranted for & what is covered by the warranty?

Q:  I love the look of granite but can’t afford it for my tops what would be an alternative?
A:  Up until now there was not another product available that could duplicate the look of real granite.  Now, Formica brand laminate has came out with a new look duplicating the look of high end granite.  It’s called 180fx & is a fraction of the cost of granite & comes in 9 different designs & colors.  Pair this up with an integral sink you will have a hard time telling the difference!!  Coming soon is our mobile showroom where we will come to you in the comfort of your home to save you time & money.