Choosing the right kitchen cabinets
The process of choosing kitchen cabinets requires a bit of research and planning. For help in those areas, there are many remodeling books and home magazines available. These can be purchased or found in the library. The pictures provide a great view of what the cabinets look like in a finished environment. If there is something in one of the books or magazines that catches your eye, there is usually information about where it can be found.
An estimated budget must be determined for the overall remodeling project. The cabinets will cost an incredible half of that budget. This will include the labor to install them. Cabinets can be chosen as stock, custom, or semi-custom. Knowing this ahead of time will reduce the chance of going over budget.
Stock cabinets come in fixed sizes and a limited number of styles and finishes. Due to the lack of customization capabilities, these are the cheapest cabinets available. This does not mean that these are cheap. On the contrary, there are many high-quality cabinets in stock. The semi custom offers more flexibility to adapt to a kitchen and the preferences of its owners. Custom cabinets offer limitless options and are made by a cabinetmaker from start to finish.
The type of material will have to be chosen. This can be based on the type of kitchen and the lifestyle of the owner. If there are children at home it may be a good idea to go with something that is easy to clean. Laminate and stainless steel cabinets fit the bill. Laminate cabinets also come in multiple colors. Wood cabinets come in various finishes and can also be painted.
There are so many types of wood that are used for cabinet making. Those typically used are pine, maple, cherry, birch, mahogany, and oak. Oak is the most popular for its color. For those looking for an eco-friendly option, cabinets are available in bamboo, an easily sustainable wood. The darker woods of walnut and ebony are beautiful and expensive. They are usually purely custom cabinet material.
Cabinet accessories can be used to give a kitchen a custom feel. Door handles do not have to be the traditional smooth metal type. They also come in granite, bronze, ceramic, and glass. Some are handcrafted or handpainted. They come in many shapes, finishes and sizes. Inside the cabinets, a Lazy Susan, fully extendable drawers, drawer inserts, and organizers make them more convenient to use.
With all of the above in mind, the choice of kitchen cabinets will be focused, if not simplified. Remember to do the necessary research and stay within budget. It can be good to keep an eye out for clearance sales or auctions. A better quality cabinet might be available for a lower price.