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Kitchen and BathAccording to Royal
LePage, homeowners who renovation their kitchen or bath prior to
selling their home realize a 75-100% return on their
investment. Whether you are just moving in or planning to stay in
your home, the improved functionality will save you time and provide a
central hub for your family and friends.
  Kitchens
Great renovations
start with planning. Take some time to make a list
of the things you like about your current kitchen or
bath. Note any features that you'd like to retain. On the
con side, list the features that don't work for you and list ways you'd
like to improve on them.
If space is the main problem, try:
Advancements
and new designs in appliances are shaping the way kitchens are designed
and sized. Let your cabinet maker or builder know the current
measurements of appliances if you plan to keep them, otherwise obtain a
model number or dimensions of one you plan to buy. If replacing
appliances at a future date, ask the cabinet maker if filler cabinets
can be put in place until the purchases are made. Properly
designed, the cabinets can be removed and used in another location when
the new appliances arrive.
In addition to size variations, new appliances are going high tech with features such as on board computers. Additional electrical, gas, plumbing, venting, and internet connections may need to be installed. Cottagers need to be aware that appliances are not designed to be left in unheated areas through the colder months. Ice maker refrigerators, dishwashers or clothes washers, need special care when closing the cottage. Installing shut off valves and drains that can be completely drained can prevent internal piping from bursting. Never use antifreeze in appliances when closing up. When planning your
kitchen, positioning your range on an exterior wall will allow easier
external venting and save some money on installation.
Cabinetry There are as many cabinet styles and configurations as there are cooks to use them. Colour, layout, and material choices should reflect how your family uses the kitchen. Here are some great features to consider:
Countertops Prone to stains, nicks, burns, and scratches, the countertop is one of the hardest working surfaces in your home. There are a number of styles, colours, materials, and price ranges to choose from. Laminates
Low shine laminates in granite patterns tend to show wear the least and are most easily replaced when it comes time to decorate. They are available in virtually any colour and pattern and two styles. The rolled or pre fabricated style features a one piece backsplash, work surface and raised front edge that helps to contain minor spills. Custom laminates are trimmed with wood to match the cabinets. The backsplash can be made to match either the laminate or the wood trim. This style tends to be more economical in kitchens where counters flow or wrap around corners. Corian Made from a polymer composite, Corian can be cut, shaped, and stained like wood. Marble This is a beautiful material. The one drawback is that marble tends to be fragile and must be well supported beneath. Tile Due to the brittle and porous nature of tile, it is not generally recommended for the main food preparation surface in a kitchen.      Sinks and Faucets Updating your
existing sink and faucets is a great way to give your kitchen a fresh
look.
New composite sinks in a range of designer colours provide an alternative to traditional porcelain and stainless steel. Regardless of whether you choose a new composite sink or the traditional porcelain or stainless steel, there is a faucet that will complete the look, no matter what style you choose. Bath
 Trends
in Bath Design
The lastest trend in bath design focuses on the total bath experience rather than simple functionality. Products designed to pamper and enhance the experience are front and centre. Ideas include:
 One of the most
exciting products is a shower tub unit that opens to allow bathers to
walk in without having to negotiate a step from floor to slippery
surface. Many also come equipped with seating to improve safety.Choosing
Fixtures
The main focus in either kitchen or bath is functionality, but who says that function has to be boring. Below are some exceptional products to make your kitchen and bath renovation sparkle. Choose quality fixtures that reflect your style and personality. In researching ideas, check out the Kohler Artifacts where you can design your own bath and basin faucets. For help with shower design visit www.ca.kohler.com to design your dream shower or bath.     Basins With bathroom decor coming into its own, there is no need to limit yourself to a choice between round or oval, white or bone. Exciting new products from Moen and Kohler open up a whole world of possibilities.     Immerse your senses
in a warm scented waters to soothe away the days stresses, or start
your morning off right with an invigorating shower.
    Choose your style:
Soaker tubs
Tubs like the one pictured above left and right, are meant for freestanding applications, but can also be built in. For installations that back on walls, a good quality tub surround or tiling is added to prevent water damage to drywall. Any soaker tub can be fitted for dual purpose by adding a shower bar and ceiling hung curtain racks. In most cases, the skirting (sides) are sold separately, so be sure to ask to avoid surprises.    Two or Three Piece Tubs
and Showers
These convenient tubs come in two or three sections: the tub unit, a wall surround, and a top (3 pc only). They are meant to be installed in existing bathrooms, hence the break up in parts, and eliminate the need to choose a separate tub surround. They also dispense with the nasty grouting issues that arise with soaker tub/surround combinations. One Piece Tubs and Showers Meant for new construction, one piece tubs are just that, and will need to be delivered prior to wall construction. Let your contractor know you're planning a one piece tub so arrangements can be made for moving the unit in with a minimum of fuss. Shower Units Size counts when it comes to shower units. Visit a local retailer and test out the floor models to avoid that claustrophobic feeling. The most common sizes are 32", 34", 36" sizes, but most companies make units from 48" to 72". Check with your local supplier or on line for available styles. Round front and neo angle shower units These units provide the maximum in depth while conserving floor space for smaller bathrooms. Barrier free units Designed with mobility issues in mind, BFU's fit flush with the floor and are an excellent choice where mobility and safety are issues. (They also eliminate lifting when Fido needs a bath) These units also offer a choice of built in features such as benches, grab bars, and side mount jets.      Quality counts when
choosing and installing faucets and shower sets for your bath.
With copper piping tucked away out of sight, the last thing anyone
wants is to have to open a wall to replace faulty parts or
couplings. Have a professional install all piping and pumps, and
motors for maximum assurance and safety.
Design. Innovate. Build. Experience. |
