What should I splurge on when remodeling a kitchen ?
Kitchens are the most expensive room to remodel, so it’s easy for even a modest wish list to outpace funds, says Austin, Texas-based residential architect Paul DeGroot in Fine Homebuilding’s annual Kitchens & Baths issue (fall / winter 2008 ). “Because it’s my job to help homeowners make remodeling decisions, I’ve put a lot of thought into when you should splurge, how you can save, and what you should never do,” he says.
Worthwhile splurges, in DeGroot’s opinion, include:
Custom or semi-custom cabinets
Countertops made of natural stone, quartz composites and recycled glass
High-quality vent hood
Pro-style dual-fuel range and other restaurant-quality appliances
Savings can be realized by:
Painting or refi nishing existing wood cabinets
Installing cork, linoleum, laminate or engineered floors such as bamboo
Installing a ceramic subway-tile backsplash
Working within an existing footprint to minimize construction costs
DeGroot’s Top 10 kitchen remodeling don’ts:
1. Don’t choose tile for countertops unless you are willing to scrub grout joints often.
2. Don’t settle for cheap drawer slides. They’re noisy and flimsy.
3. Don’t install a light-gauge stainless-steel sink. It will flex, dent and scratch easily.
4. Don’t buy cheap cabinets ($ 150 to $ 200 per linear foot ) to save a penny. They’re usually made of particleboard, which can lead to sagging shelves and hinge screws that pull out.
5. Don’t skimp on lighting. A dim kitchen is dreary and can be unsafe.
6. Don’t install wood floors in an active family kitchen unless you won’t mind refinishing them occasionally.
7. Don’t be stingy with counter space next to the sink, cooktop or refrigerator.
8. Don’t buy a cheap dishwasher. It will likely clean poorly and loudly.
9. Don’t use halogen under-cabinet lights. They’re too hot.
10. Don’t install hard-to-clean backsplash materials such as porous stone, brick or stucco.
To learn more visit www. fi nehomebuilding. com.
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