FAQs About Getting Started

With more than 50 years in the business, we know that some questions come up every time. Have questions? Find answers here.Have a question you don’t see answered here? Don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Why are custom kitchens so expensive?

Bespoke kitchens typically entail a higher cost due to their customized design, use of premium materials, and specialized craftsmanship. Every component is meticulously tailored to suit your unique space and preferences, necessitating intricate attention to detail and skilled labor. Besides significant difference in quality and overall ROI, there are also stark differences both aesthetically (unsightly end fillers, finishes, proportions etc) and functionality (limited opening types, layout, storage etc).

How long will it take to remodel my space? / What is the installation process?

The time needed to finish a project depends on the products ordered and the extent of the remodel's scope. Upon ordering and delivery of cabinets, templating and fabrication of countertops follow. Contractors or installers then handle various tasks such as tear-out, drywall construction, electrical and plumbing work, tile installation, flooring, and countertop installation, as well as finishing touches like painting and trim work. Your designer will keep you informed throughout the process, providing a timeline tailored to your project.

Will my remodeling project be completed within my planned budget?

The advantage of working directly with an experienced cabinet maker and designer is removing surprises when it comes to cost and knowledge of the entire process. There are many ancillary trades and issues tied to the cabinets that we can foresee as well as provide an honest opinion when it comes to process and cost. Embarking on a remodeling project signifies a significant investment in your home, which can understandably bring about apprehension, particularly regarding budget concerns. We strive to establish a timeline and budget that mitigate unexpected expenses. Thoughtful planning and collaboration with a skilled design and installation team can instill confidence in your decisions and ensure thorough consideration of all aspects. However, unforeseen expenses may arise, particularly following the removal of walls, existing cabinetry, and soffits. We advise incorporating a 10% buffer over the contracted price into your budget to accommodate any potential change orders or unforeseen costs.

What can I prepare for and expect during the installation process?
  • When remodeling a kitchen, it's worth considering setting up a temporary kitchen in another room, equipped with essentials like a microwave, small sink, and place settings. Coordinate with your contractor beforehand to relocate the refrigerator to a different area. Planning to eat out, grill, or use the microwave for meals is advisable. If possible, you can wash dishes in the laundry room or bathroom for convenience.
  • When remodeling a bathroom — particularly if it's your sole one, consider arranging with your contractor to reset the toilet at the end of each workday. This entails disconnecting and removing it each morning to provide more workspace for tasks like tiling and flooring. Resetting ensures the toilet is functional again by the end of the day.


No matter which room you're renovating, anticipate dust and dirt in your living space. Even with precautions like plastic barriers, some dust tends to spread. Also, be prepared for unexpected surprises. Hidden issues may surface only after walls or cabinets are removed, potentially leading to extra expenses. Any alterations or additions to the project scope during the process can also affect costs. It's wise to allocate a buffer in your budget for unforeseen expenses.

What types of cabinets should I choose for my space?

There are numerous types of cabinetry available, ranging from framed to full-access to inset, each offering distinct aesthetics and functionalities. Our professional designers at the design centers will guide you through the various options, allowing you to choose the type of cabinetry that aligns best with your personal style and requirements.

What type of countertop should I choose for my space?

A multitude of countertop options are available, including quartz, porcelain, soapstone, granite, and solid surface materials. The choice of surface material depends on factors such as intended usage, desired performance, and budget constraints. Utilize our countertop guide to streamline your selection process and find the perfect fit for your needs.

Quartz
Quartz is crafted from a mixture of quartz and resins, resulting in a robust and long-lasting surface. Its texture closely resembles that of granite, offering a consistent appearance with minimal variation in colors and patterns. Similar to granite, quartz countertops may exhibit visible seams. Alongside its durability, quartz surfaces are heat-resistant and demand minimal maintenance, making them a practical choice for various applications.

Porcelain
Marrying strength and durability with an eye-catching aesthetic, porcelain emerges as a contemporary and sought-after countertop material. Its easy maintenance, UV resistance, and diverse range of color options make it an appealing choice to enhance your new space.

Soapstone
Quarried similarly to granite and marble, soapstone boasts a smooth texture while being highly resistant to absorption. Any stains or discolorations on soapstone remain on the surface, easily removable through scrubbing or sanding. Unlike many other natural stones like slate, marble, granite, limestone, and travertine, soapstone does not absorb liquids. Even after decades of use, soapstone can be refinished to appear brand new. Its versatility allows it to effortlessly complement warm, rustic, or modern design aesthetics. To enhance its natural color and provide protection, we recommend sealing newly installed soapstone countertops with mineral oil or a stone sealer. Periodic reapplication of mineral oil helps maintain the stone's appearance and protective layer.

Granite
Being a natural stone, granite exudes unmatched beauty and texture. Renowned for its durability and heat resistance, granite offers a selection of nearly 200 variations. Depending on your chosen granite, occasional sealing may be necessary, and visible seams might be present.

Solid Surface
Solid surface countertops, such as Corian, are generally acrylic-based materials known for their durability and versatility. They offer a wide range of colors and edge profiles to choose from. These countertops exhibit moderate heat resistance and feature seamless designs. Although susceptible to scratching, they can be easily repaired.

What type of flooring should I choose for my space?

Currently, there is an extensive array of materials, colors, and textures to choose from when it comes to flooring, offering endless possibilities. It's crucial to assess the overall investment you're willing to commit to the project. Take into account the functionality of the space and the expected foot traffic patterns. Collaborating with your designer to understand the necessary level of durability and preferred color schemes is essential (typically, lighter finishes display less wear compared to darker ones). Establishing a budget for flooring will provide guidance as you streamline your options.

Luxury Vinyl Tile
For those desiring a sophisticated appearance coupled with durability and functionality, luxury vinyl tile presents an increasingly popular choice in flooring. Available in a diverse range of colors and designs, it fills a void often found in traditional ceramic tile selections. Notably, luxury vinyl tile offers a warmer feel underfoot and greater flexibility compared to ceramic options. Its comfortable surface is particularly well-suited for high-traffic areas, boasting waterproof properties and requiring minimal maintenance or repair.

Tile
Tile proves to be a resilient choice for high-traffic zones such as foyers, kitchens, and bathrooms. Whether opting for timeless porcelain or elegant travertine, the range of choices is abundant. Ceramic tile, renowned for its durability, comes in a plethora of colors, textures, and styles, allowing for customized borders and designs. Maintaining tile is straightforward, yet debris may accumulate within grout lines over time. A thorough steam cleaning rejuvenates grout, while applying a sealer aids in minimizing this issue. Notably stain-resistant, tile flooring can endure for decades with minimal upkeep.

Wood
Wood flooring enjoys widespread popularity in contemporary settings, offering a timeless and inviting aesthetic that complements various styles of decor. With proper care, wood floors can endure for decades and are capable of being refinished to achieve a fresh appearance. Prefinished wood floors are particularly resilient against heavy foot traffic and stains, provided they are adequately maintained. Swift cleanup of spills and debris typically poses no threat to the integrity of wood floors, ensuring their durability over time.

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