Wednesday, March 30, 2016

Our List of the Best Features to Include in Your Custom Cabinets

Custom Cabinets
The best part about getting custom cabinets is the ability to do whatever you want. With carpentry, the sky is the limit, so if you dream up an idea, tell us about it and we will make it happen. Beyond how amazing they look, the options for customization is what makes custom cabinets so much more functional than what you can buy at the local home improvement store. Here is our list of the best features to include in yours.

#1 - Pantry cabinets.

We can install cabinet drawers that open up from the top to provide immediate access to pantry items like potatoes and onions. You won’t need a bag to store them in because you just pour them in for perfect and immediate storage. By adding a clear glass front, you can always see what you have and when you need to head to the store.

#2 - Spice cabinet.

If you like to cook a lot, you are probably wrestling with your spices on a regular basis. By giving you a narrow slid-out cabinet with spice storage, you can instantly see and access all your spices.

#3 - Divided pan storage.

Instead of digging for the perfect size pan, you can easily sort and organize with divided cabinets. By simply placing dividers, your custom cabinets will always stay clean and make it easy for you to access pans, lids, and even pots.

#4 - Utensil storage.

Instead of using a plastic divider for your forks, knives, and spoons, we can build one into a drawer that is multiple levels. This gives you the ability to separate daily utensils from what you save for holidays and parties.

#5 - Pullout Lazy Susan.

Corner cabinets can be difficult to access and to clean. By giving you a Lazy Susan that you can actually pull out of the cupboard, you can always see what you are storing and easily access your canned goods, etc.

#6 - Built-in garbage and recycling.

Every kitchen should have a garbage and recycling bin hidden into the cabinetry. This keeps the garbage easily in reach but out of the way.

#7 - Utensil hanging.

If you do not like the appearance of your spatulas being on top of the counter, we can create a narrow cabinet that pulls out, with hooks for all your cooking utensils.

#8 - Built-in and removable baskets.

If you like the idea of being able to keep food in your cabinets but want to be able to clean that area, we can install removable baskets. They will slide into your cabinetry to blend in but can also be removed to rinse out. This makes it easy to store fruit, avocados, and veggies within easy reach.

#9 - Cutting board.

We can install a cutting board that slides into your cabinetry, but to increase the efficiency of your kitchen, we can cut a hole in it and build the garbage underneath. You can chop and toss without any additional effort.

#10 - Cookbook storage.

If you like to cook, why keep your books in the living room or library? We can create cookbook storage so they are always within easy reach.

To learn more about custom cabinets and how they can improve your life, call and schedule a consultation.

Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Granite Countertops vs. Marble and Laminate

Granite Countertops
If you are considering placing granite countertops in your home, you may be wondering how they compare with other materials. Granite is incredibly popular and has become the material of choice for many modern home buyers. Replacing both laminate and tile, you are more likely to find granite in new constructions now than in years past. Given the diversity of colors, styles, and design, it is no wonder that designers are also including them in remodels. Still, when you go to remodel your kitchen, you need to select a material that fits your needs, rather than just being a design trend. Here is what you need to know about granite and the comparable options.

Natural Materials

Both granite and marble are natural materials, unlike laminate. As something that is naturally occurring, there is a uniqueness to each slab. They are not manufactured in a lab to your or anyone’s exact specifications. This makes them incredibly interesting, and it can be fun to select your counters from a variety of options. However, if you need it to look an exact way, it could take some time to find the right counters, or you may need to temporarily put in laminate while you hunt for a slab of granite that you are absolutely in love with.

Durability

Granite countertops are the most durable when compared with marble and laminate. They are hardy and less likely to stain, chip, or crack than the other two. For the most part, granite is resistant to foods that are acidic as well. Marble can be made more durable with regular sealing. However, laminate is naturally prone to cracks and chips because of how thin it is. This is more likely to show on the corners or edges of the counters.

Cleanup

All three are fairly easy to clean, but they can also soak in the color of food or drinks that are placed on them. For this reason, you should clean them right away. Granite is the least likely to show stains, but you should still reseal it once every two years. Marble, on the other hand, need to be resealed twice every year. This makes the maintenance cost and time requirement much higher with marble.

Price

When it comes to cost, nothing is as inexpensive a laminate and it looks it. If you want your counters to look high-end or custom, laminate is not a good solution, since it is all about function and not design. Marble, on the other hand, can look very glamorous, but it is the most expensive of the three. Given its ability to chip or become stained, this is a better option for bathroom counters that are smaller and receive less use. For your kitchen, we recommend granite countertops because while they cost far more than granite, the cost is worth it. Your kitchen will look amazing, and your counters will last for years to come while still looking incredible. They stand the test of time, which means less remodeling cost in the future.

To learn more about granite countertops or your options, call us today.