Looking to renovate or remodel your kitchen, but on a limited budget? Good news – by opting to do a kitchen refresh versus a full kitchen remodel, homeowners can drastically change the appearance of their kitchen, making it look aesthetically more pleasing, modern, brighter, and inviting. It also can help increase property value, a bonus for those getting ready to put their home on the market.
The kitchen countertop covers a lot of space in one room and can be a focal point. Changing it out for a new one can create an updated look and instantly improve the most popular room in your home.
Consider laminate for an economical choice
The most economical option when doing a kitchen update is to opt for a laminate countertop. Laminates have textured finishes, allowing them to stand up to surface scratches. There are many different edge profiles to choose from and colour selections are unlimited.
Do your research on product warranties
Every budget and style can be accommodated when replacing kitchen countertops. Aside from laminate, homeowners can choose from a variety of other materials including Corian®, granite, quartz and even solid wood. When selected high-end countertops, homeowners should do their homework – it’s always important to check warranties that suppliers carry. With Corian®, for example, there is a 10- year transferable warranty, whereas quartz suppliers range anywhere from 10 to 15 years, depending on the supplier that you are dealing with.
No countertop is warrantied against heat damage, and regardless of what material homeowners choose, heat can damage any countertop surface. The benefit of Corian® is that it’s renewable – the damaged area can be serviced and brought back to its original state. It is seamless, easy to take care of and there are no seams in the countertops with this product. Soap and water to clean.
Corian® and quartz are the only countertop surfaces that are non-porous and require only soap and water to clean. Granite is porous so regular chemical sealing is required to maintain the countertop. If granite countertops are not sealed property, they tend to stain.
Find a supplier with an experience design staff
Homeowners needing assistance with colour and style selection should find a company that has experienced design staff on site that can make recommendations based on customers’ personal taste and colour palate. The family owned and operated, Countertop Depot, has been in business in Guelph since 1999 and pride themselves on hands-on design service in addition to offering quality products. Owners Alan and Melissa Kirkpatrick recommend homeowners bring in samples of flooring, wall tiles, cabinet stain and wall colour so their staff can make the best recommendations based on customers’ personal taste and colour palette.
Don’t forget the little details
To complete the look, homeowners can choose to change out their sinks and faucet. Selecting a company that can supply both countertop and sink and faucet is ideal, as dealing with a one-stop-shop situation makes it easier for all involved.
For information and advice on how to make your kitchen refresh project a success, contact the Countertop Depot at 1-888-526-4333.