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eco-friendly kitchen cabinets

8 Eco-Friendly Design Options to Consider as Part of Your Kitchen Designs

As we learn more about the impact of human behavior on the earth, more and more homeowners are searching for eco-friendly alternatives to mass-produced building materials. Thankfully, there are lots of ways you can be more eco-conscious when designing your kitchen. Try these eight eco-friendly design options to consider as part of your kitchen designs.

1. Reclaimed and Re-used Materials

It’s no secret that our country generates a lot of waste. So. Much. Waste. While we love to keep our kitchen styles up to date, remodeling isn’t always eco-friendly. Thankfully, you can update your style while reducing your environmental footprint by using reclaimed and re-used materials. This works especially well for rustic kitchens. For example, rather than buying all new hardware, fixtures, and accessories, repurpose used cabinet pulls, wire mesh, and faucets. As long as everything is in good shape, these repurposed elements will only add to your kitchen’s rustic charm.

2. Refinished Cabinets

Rather than buying all new cabinets, consider refinishing your cabinets if they are in good condition. At Edgewood Cabinetry, we offer painting, staining, and refinishing services to help you refresh your kitchen. It’s a simple way to be more eco-friendly without giving up your style.

3. Sustainable Materials

Choosing sustainable materials is an easy way to incorporate eco-friendly design options into your kitchen. For instance, terrazzo and quartz are great choices for countertops because they’re easily recycled. Sustainably harvested wood and glass are also great choices for your kitchen. So, don’t forget to ask about using sustainable wood for your kitchen cabinets.

4. Save Water

Most homeowners use a lot of water in their kitchens. Whether you’re washing dishes or rinsing veggies, using water is part of the job. Plus, who doesn’t love a giant pot of pasta? Thankfully, it’s easy to be more eco-friendly with your water use. Just choose appliances and taps that are made to save water. They’re just as effective without being wasteful. Win!

5. Look for Low VOCs

VOCs, or volatile organic compounds, create pollution that is harmful to both the environment and your health. Sadly, VOCs are often found in building materials, like composite wood and carpet. Instead, opt for materials like solid wood and granite. These have low or no VOCs. Additionally, choose paint or finishes that are low in VOCs. We can help you decide.

6. Eco-Friendly Flooring

The type of flooring you use in your kitchen has a big impact on how eco-friendly it is. For instance, synthetic materials, like vinyl, put a lot of pollution into the environment. Gross. Plus, they require a lot of intensive work that increases the carbon footprint of these materials. Thankfully, better options are available. Wood, bamboo, and cork are all excellent choices for floors. They look great, and they’re sustainable, too!

7. Look for Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient lights and appliances make a big difference in your electric bill. They’re also eco-friendly options for your kitchen. So, if you’re building a new kitchen, choose energy-efficient lights. Your fridge and stove should be energy-efficient, too. You can also replace things slowly, as they wear out. Remember, even changing one light is still a step in the right direction.

8. Eco-Friendly Cabinets

Your cabinets make up a large part of your kitchen. So, it’s important to choose eco-friendly ones. Cheap particleboard is full of chemicals. And stock cabinets from box stores are often shipped all over the world. That makes them pretty bad for the environment. So, try working with a local cabinet maker, like Edgewood Cabinetry.

Natural wood cabinets are a good choice. They’re even better if you use local wood. That way, it doesn’t travel as far. And that means, it uses fewer resources. Don’t be afraid to ask whether the wood is harvested sustainably, too.

At Edgewood Cabinetry, we have many ways to make your kitchen more eco-friendly. For example, we’re happy to use reclaimed materials, as long as they’re in good shape. We can also help you refresh your existing cabinets. And we offer wood species that are native to our state, like oak and pine. If you’d like to learn more about eco-friendly cabinet options for your kitchen, contact us here. We’ll be in touch soon!

 

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brightly lit kitchen
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Kitchen Lighting: How to Showcase Your Cabinets with Light

Your kitchen is the heart of your home. It’s where everyone gathers and where memories are made. So naturally, you want a beautiful, welcoming kitchen. Cabinets make up a big part of your kitchen’s overall look, so it’s important to accent them with the right lighting. Here’s how to showcase your cabinets with light.

Make Use of Natural Light

The first way to showcase your cabinets with light is simply to make use of natural light. If your kitchen has windows, a skylight, or a glass door, don’t cover them up! After all, the natural light they provide offers a beautiful way to showcase your cabinets. So, either leave windows uncovered or choose sheer window treatments that still allow plenty of light to come through.

If your kitchen doesn’t have any great sources of natural light and you plan to remodel, consider adding some strategically placed windows. Even small kitchens typically have places windows or skylights can be added, and it’s well worth the investment to add natural light to your kitchen.

Layer Your Lighting

It’s important to understand the three main types of lighting in your kitchen. Each has a role to play and layering them gives the best results. That’s why you should include ambient, task, and accent lighting to showcase your kitchen cabinets.

The first layer, ambient lighting, is soft, warm light that extends throughout your kitchen and typically comes from overhead fixtures. Next, add task lighting to illuminate workspaces, like countertops and kitchen islands. Finally, accent lighting is perfect for illuminating specific areas or objects you want to display. Accent lighting is perfect for showcasing China cabinets, highlighting design elements, or spotlighting countertop decor.

Pay Attention to Spacing

Exactly where you place your lighting matters more than you may think. For example, pendant lights are a beautiful way to showcase kitchen islands. And LED light strips are perfect for under-cabinet lighting. However, both types of lighting may result in a glare if they are spaced incorrectly. And that’s particularly true for glossy surfaces, such as marble or granite.

Fortunately, there’s an easy solution. Simply spacing lights correctly reduces glare and shows your cabinets in the best light. For instance, pendant lights should be centered above features like kitchen islands. However, they should not be closer than 2.5 feet from the surface of the island. Similarly, LED lights should be placed between one and three inches away from the front of the cabinet to avoid excessive glare on the countertop below.

Choose Warm Tones

Not all lighting is the same. Both your cabinets and your kitchen as a whole look better with warm lighting. Thankfully, it’s easy to choose the right lighting by looking at color temperatures.

A color temperature between 3500K and 4100K is perfect for ambient lighting. That’s because it’s bright enough to illuminate workspaces, like countertops, while still appearing warm. In contrast, it’s best to choose a color temperature between 2700K and 3000K for accent lighting. This range brings a warm, beautiful light to the inside of cabinets. It’s also perfect for lighting countertops below overhead cabinets.

Take Advantage of Custom Options

One of the biggest perks of installing custom kitchen cabinets is getting everything exactly the way you want it, including lighting. So if you want to add lighting to the interior of all your cabinets, you can do it. Can’t wait to highlight the ornate details on your European style cabinets? Consider it done!

The sky is the limit when it comes to designing and lighting your custom kitchen cabinets. So be sure to discuss your ideas with us during the design process. We’re happy to accommodate your wishes and to work with other professionals, such as electricians, to make your cabinet dreams come true.

Ready to get started on your dream kitchen? Contact us today for a free estimate or to begin the design process.

 

 

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white kitchen and island
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5 Reasons to Hire a Cabinet Pro Instead of DIY

It’s often tempting to take on DIY projects. After all, why pay a professional if you can do the work yourself? When it comes to installing or refinishing cabinets, however, you may want to think twice about tackling the project on your own. Here are five reasons to hire a cabinet pro instead of DIY.

1. Cabinet Work May Be More Complex Than You Think

Installing or refinishing your cabinets probably sounds easy. However, cabinet work may be more complex than you think. For example, painting or staining your cabinets may sound simple, but if you don’t know how to work with natural woodgrain, you may not like the results.

Additionally, it’s incredibly easy to make mistakes when building or installing cabinets yourself. It’s often more difficult than it seems to get cabinets perfectly level. And if your measurements are even slightly off, your cabinets won’t fit the way they should. Plus, large projects may require moving plumbing or electrical wires. That’s why it’s best to hire a cabinet pro instead of DIY, especially for complex jobs.

2. DIY Cabinet Projects Aren’t Always Less Expensive

One of the main reasons people take on DIY cabinet projects is to save money. However, homeowners often fail to consider the full cost of DIY projects. For instance, do you have all the necessary tools to complete the work? If not, purchasing or renting tools adds a significant amount to your project’s price tag.

Similarly, just getting your cabinets or materials to your home is often expensive if you don’t own your own truck. Delivery and rental fees add up. Plus, there’s always the possibility that something goes wrong during your project that requires a professional to fix. As a result, it’s often better to hire a pro in the first place.

3. Your Project Could Be Dangerous

While a DIY cabinet project might not sound particularly hazardous, it could be more dangerous than you think. In fact, falls from ladders are one of the most common accidents that send people to the emergency room. And that’s particularly relevant if you’re installing cabinets near the ceiling.

But falls aren’t the only thing you need to worry about. Working on cabinets often involves working near electrical wires or even needing to move or install new electrical outlets. That’s always hazardous if you’re not a pro. Plus, even the dust and fumes generated when working on cabinets may be dangerous if you don’t have the proper protective equipment.

4. Time Is Valuable

Have you ever gotten into a home repair and then realized it was going to be way more work than you first anticipated? That’s a common problem for DIY projects, including cabinets. So one question you need to ask yourself is, how valuable is your time?

If you can’t afford to take off work to finish your project or live without the use of your kitchen until your cabinets are complete, hiring a pro is a better option. Your time is valuable, and sometimes, it just makes more sense to have a pro do the work.

5. You Want Professional Results

If you’ve never worked on cabinets before, they may seem like one of the easiest DIY projects to try. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. There’s a lot to learn about different wood species, stains, paints, finishes, etc. And if you don’t have that knowledge, you may be disappointed in the results.

As you know, cabinets play a huge role in the overall appearance of your kitchen. Beautiful cabinets give your entire kitchen a facelift, but messy paint jobs, crooked doors, and imperfections have the opposite effect. In reality, it’s all too easy to make mistakes with your cabinets. So if you want professional results, it’s best to hire a pro to do the work.

Edgewood Cabinetry offers a variety of cabinets and cabinet services to suit your needs. If you are ready to begin your next project or would like more information about the services we provide, contact us for a free quote. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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black cabinets with white countertops
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7 Trending Cabinet Designs to Consider in 2024

Is your kitchen due for an update? Refreshing your kitchen cabinets is the perfect way to give your kitchen a facelift. And with so many exciting design trends appearing in 2024, there are plenty of options to create your dream kitchen. So without further ado, here are seven trending cabinet designs to consider in 2024.

1. Open Shelving

If you love to display your cookware or favorite dishes, open shelving is trending design that could work for you. After all, open shelves give you plenty of space to display your favorite items. However, you should remember that open shelving sometimes limits your storage space. And it’s essential that you keep your shelves tidy at all times, since they’re on display. That’s why many people make the best of both worlds by adding open shelving on the sides of end cabinets. With this approach, you still keep the storage space of traditional cabinets. But you also have some open shelving to display your favorite kitchen items or decor.

2. Warm Colors

Are you tired of all the black, white, and gray cabinets that have dominated kitchen trends over the past few years? Then, we have some great news for you! Warm colors are making a comeback in 2024. So go ahead and opt for cheery yellow, serene teal, or rich red kitchen cabinets. Just imagine, you’ll be on trend and create a more inviting kitchen, too. Did someone say dinner party?

3. Focal Kitchen Islands

Kitchen islands are always a useful addition to your kitchen. After all, they create more storage space and workspace. Plus, many kitchen islands now integrate cooktops, sinks, or home bars, too. That’s why making your kitchen island into a focal piece is one of the biggest trends of 2024. Best of all, designing your own kitchen island allows you to make it as elaborate, ornate, or functional as you like. So what are you waiting for?

4. Natural Wood

If you love the look of natural wood, now is the time to let your kitchen cabinets shine in all their natural beauty! That’s because natural wood cabinets are trending this year. In fact, many homeowners are replacing their white kitchen cabinets with white oak. The end result is gorgeous, light cabinets that let the natural woodgrain shine through. But don’t worry if you prefer darker hues. They’re trending, too! Walnut is especially popular this year.

5. Earth Tones

Along with natural wood, earth tones are trending in 2024. Soft earthy hues and desert-inspired colors are particularly popular. So it’s the perfect time to try out those terracotta or sage green cabinets you’ve been dreaming of. Additionally, try combining earth tones with natural wood elements, or add a few houseplants to enhance the nature-based theme for your kitchen. Alternatively, incorporate stone accents to create a calming atmosphere.

6. Hidden Storage

Clean lines with everything tucked away provide a seamless, sleek look. And that’s just what the latest cabinet trends feature. So choose cabinets that integrate hidden storage and built-in appliances. For example, include pull-outs or pull-downs for garbage and recycling. Opt for built-in storage racks and drawer-inserts. Or revamp your entire kitchen with custom cabinets that conceal or integrate your appliances.

7. Built-In Bars and Beverage Centers

Have you ever dreamed of having a wet bar in your kitchen? How about your own designated coffee center? Or maybe a tea station is more your style. Whatever your preferred beverage is, having a bar or beverage center in your kitchen is a perk you’re sure to enjoy. That’s why built-in bars and beverage centers are really having a moment in 2024. So when you’re picking out your new kitchen cabinets, consider including a home bar or beverage center. Whether you choose a simple refrigerated cabinet or transform your kitchen island into a bar, you’ll love the convenience of being able to quickly grab or prepare your favorite beverage in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Are you ready to incorporate some of these seven trending kitchen cabinet designs into your home? Great! We’d love to help make your dream kitchen a reality. Give us a call at (919) 339-7300 or contact us here to get started.

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kitchen island with green chairs

Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Myths, Debunked

Are you dying to remodel your kitchen cabinets but worried about some of the things you’ve heard? Don’t give up yet. The truth is myths and misconceptions abound in home remodeling. That’s why it’s so important to separate fact from fiction before making remodeling decisions. Let’s talk about common kitchen cabinet remodel myths, debunked.

You Save Money by Doing Your Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Yourself

It’s true that the initial expense of doing a kitchen cabinet remodel yourself is less than paying a professional. However, you sacrifice quality. Plus, it’s possible to encounter problems you’re completely unprepared for. For example, do you know what to do if you find mold or rotted wood behind your old cabinets when you remove them? It’s a real possibility.

Any time you remodel your kitchen, there is a potential to find unexpected problems. And that means the entire project quickly goes wrong. So unless you are very skilled, leave your kitchen cabinet remodel to the pros. Otherwise, you may spend far more to fix your mistakes than it would have cost to pay a professional from the beginning.

It’s a Good Idea to Hire a Handyman Instead of a Contractor

Like attempting to do a remodel yourself, it’s often tempting to hire a handyman in order to save money. After all, a handyman charges less than a contractor. So it’s a good deal, right? Wrong. Handymen are typically skilled at a variety of simple projects. But they don’t have the same level of experience and skill as a contractor. It helps to compare them to doctors. Handymen are like the primary care physicians of the home improvement world, while contractors are the specialists.

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, you definitely want a specialist. That’s because they’re prepared to handle any problems that arise. And they make sure all the work in your kitchen is up to code, too. Plus, home inspectors and insurance agents often want proof that anyone working on your home is licensed. So save yourself the hassle. Hire a contractor for your kitchen cabinet remodel.

A Kitchen Cabinet Remodel Isn’t Worth the Investment

Some people believe that a kitchen cabinet remodel isn’t worth the investment. That’s because trends change so quickly. And since you typically don’t get a 100% return on your investment, a kitchen cabinet remodel doesn’t always seem to be worth the cost. However, this is a myth. You just need to look at the big picture.

First, think of the benefits you receive from a kitchen cabinet remodel. Your entire kitchen looks better. You get more storage. Your cabinets are more functional. And if you choose high-quality cabinets, they last for many years to come. As it turns out, those are all qualities potential buyers look for, too. So your kitchen cabinet remodel also helps your home fetch a higher selling price when the time comes.

Custom Storage Options and Accessories Are a Waste of Money

When you’re trying to stick to a budget, custom storage options and accessories feel like frills. And that leads many homeowners to opt out of including them. But that’s a mistake. After all, the Research Institute for Cooking & Kitchen Intelligence surveyed homeowners and found that the thing they most regretted about their kitchen remodel was not adding more options for organization. Don’t make the same mistake.

Instead, think carefully about the options and accessories you want to include. Those that save you time or bring you a sense of peace are well worth the investment. For example, pull-outs that store trash out of sight help your kitchen feel more serene. Lazy Susans give you easy access to jars. And corner cabinet organizers provide a way to keep your plastic dishes and lids tidy. Remember, you never regret including options you love.

Need more help separating remodeling myths from facts? Check out our FAQ page to learn more or contact us to discuss the project you have in mind. We look forward to speaking with you soon!

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woodgrain kitchen cabinets

6 Incredible Kitchen Cabinet Designs That Are Hot in 2023

Time to refresh your kitchen cabinets? We have all the inspiration you need! Here are six kitchen cabinet designs that are hot in 2023.

1. Warm Woods

Warm woods are making a comeback. So if you love the look of woods like cherry, mahogany, and hickory, this is the perfect time to get new cabinets. And you’ll love showing off all that natural woodgrain!

Light, warm colors really open up and brighten your kitchen. So cabinets made from warm wood tones provide instant cheer to the room. And that’s an atmosphere you’re sure to appreciate in the heart of your home.

2. Traditional Elements

Do you love the old-fashioned elegance of traditional cabinets? If so, it’s your time to shine! Cabinets with traditional elements are on trend for 2023. So whether you yearn for the elegance of a Parisian kitchen or Americana is more your style, adding traditional elements to your custom cabinets can make your dreams come true!

Ornate molding, arched designs, and raised panels bring a traditional feel to your kitchen. And with custom cabinets, you can embellish your design as much or as little as you like. Finally, you can design your own unique cabinets and be in style!

3. Flat, Sleek Doors

Simplicity is in style for 2023, and that includes cabinet doors. Sleek, flat doors are really having a moment. So if you love the simple, modern look, this is a great time to upgrade your cabinets.

Furthermore, flat, sleek doors go perfectly with the latest trends of open kitchens that extend into both indoor and outdoor living space. The simple, sleek design allows for uninterrupted visual lines. And that makes your kitchen feel larger and more open.

4. Hidden Storage

Cabinets with hidden storage are one of the hottest design trends in 2023. That’s because no one likes cluttered countertops. So opting for cabinets with plenty of interior storage options makes sense. They keep all your unsightly clutter and unused appliances tucked neatly out of sight.

For instance, add corner cabinets with organizers to store specialty appliances. Or move your garbage and recycling to hidden pull-outs. Alternatively, include lazy Susans to organize your cans and jars. Or opt for built-in spice racks to organize your collection of spices. There are tons of options and accessories available to fit your needs!

5. Simple Hardware

When it comes to hardware, simplicity is once again on trend. That’s why bar pulls are so hot right now. In fact, an overwhelming 72% of homeowners are choosing them. But don’t worry if you’re not a fan of bar pulls. Knobs and cup pulls are still solid choices.

The most important thing to remember is that your hardware should fit with your cabinet design. So if you’re trying to achieve a sleek, minimalistic look, bar pulls are the obvious option. But if you’re opting for a more traditional style, knobs and cup pulls are often better choices.

6. Tried and True

Cabinet trends come and go, but some styles have remained popular. So if you’re not a fan of some of the new trends, you’ll be happy to know that some tried-and-true cabinet styles are still hot in 2023.

For example, shaker style cabinets are still the most frequently chosen design. So if flat panels don’t appeal to you, you can’t go wrong with a nice set of shaker cabinets.

Additionally, white remains the most in-demand color for new cabinets. So if showcasing natural woodgrain isn’t your style, it’s perfectly fine to choose white cabinets. Your kitchen will get a refresh, and you’ll be following 2023’s hottest color trend.

Are you ready to make one of these incredible kitchen cabinet designs your own? We’d love to help you design your dream kitchen! Contact us today for a free estimate.

 

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4 Signs Your Kitchen Cabinets Need Replacing

Sometimes, it’s hard to know when to replace your kitchen cabinets. After all, getting new cabinets is a major investment. So it’s natural to want them to last as long as possible. And yet, you find yourself becoming annoyed by your current cabinets and dreaming of replacing them.

So how do you know when it’s the right time to invest in new kitchen cabinets? Here are four signs your kitchen cabinets need replacing.

1. You Hate the Way Your Cabinets Look

Do your cabinets have worn or stained areas that have become an eyesore? Are they outdated? Or maybe your cabinets just don’t match your personal style. Whatever the case, if you hate the way your cabinets look, it’s a sign they need replacing.

Your home is your sanctuary. And your kitchen should be a warm, inviting space that you enjoy spending time in. So if your cabinets prevent you from loving your kitchen, it’s time for an upgrade. Fortunately, with custom kitchen cabinets, you can choose every detail, from the style and color to the hardware on the doors. So pick cabinets you love, and watch the entire aesthetic of your kitchen change!

2. Your Cabinets Are Damaged

Damage is the most obvious sign your kitchen cabinets need replacing. However, damage comes in many forms. Check for warping, water spots, and mold. These are signs that your cabinets need replacing.

Doors that don’t close properly, bubbling under the surface, splintering wood, and built-up grime are also serious issues that warrant replacing your cabinets. So if you see obvious damage to your cabinets, it’s time to replace them. However, if you notice water damage or mold, be sure to consult a plumber to fix any leaks before installing new cabinets in your kitchen.

3. You Need Better Functionality

If your cabinets just don’t do what you need them to do, it’s a sign they need replacing. Homes are often built with cheap stock cabinets that aren’t adequate for your storage needs. And if you have an older home, there’s a good chance your cabinets were built before there was a need to store multiple modern kitchen appliances.

Thankfully, it’s easy to get the functionality you need with custom kitchen cabinets. We offer all the kitchen cabinet options and accessories you need to maximize your cabinets’ functionality. For example, drawer inserts keep your utensils organized. Pull-outs store your trash out of sight. And lazy Susans put all your pantry essentials within reach.

When it comes to customizing kitchen cabinets, the sky is the limit! So choose the options and accessories you like best, and enjoy fully functional cabinets that truly work for you!

4. Your Cabinets Are Too Small

A lack of storage space is a common pain point for homeowners. Many kitchens were designed with stock cabinets that just aren’t big enough for all your appliances, pots, pans, and other kitchen items. And often, kitchens include just a few cabinets and shelves instead of maximizing the available wall space. So if you find yourself cluttering your counters and searching for additional storage, your kitchen cabinets need replacing.

Fortunately, getting the storage space you need is easy with custom kitchen cabinets. That’s because custom cabinets are built to fit your unique kitchen. So instead of being limited to standard sizes, you can make use of every inch of available space.

Plus, there are tons of options to help you maximize your storage space. For instance, install corner cabinets to store large appliances. Include a wine rack to organize your favorite vintages. Add on-door storage racks for supplies. Corral your spices in a spice rack. Place a China cabinet in your dining room. Or opt for a new kitchen island for extra storage that doubles as the perfect place to enjoy breakfast. The possibilities are endless!

So what do you think? Do any of these signs apply to your kitchen cabinets? If so, it’s time for an upgrade!

Contact us today for a free estimate. We’re happy to help!

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natural woodgrain kitchen cabinets

Are Some Woods Better Than Others for Kitchen Cabinets?

One of the best things about purchasing custom kitchen cabinets is you get to choose every detail, from the wood color and species to the hardware and accessories. But with so many options available, it’s often hard to decide what’s best. Frequently, one of the most difficult decisions customers face is selecting the wood species they want.

So are some woods better than others for kitchen cabinets? Absolutely. Here’s what you need to know.

Some Woods Are More Durable

Your kitchen is hard on wood. Steam from cooking, moisture from washing dishes, and chemicals from household cleaners all take a toll on your cabinets. Plus, there’s all the wear and tear from opening and closing all those doors and drawers. So you definitely need to choose a wood species that is strong enough to handle a kitchen environment.

Close-grained hardwoods like cherry, hickory, and maple are excellent choices for your kitchen. That’s because they’re not easily warped by the wet environment in your kitchen. And they’re strong enough to hold up to years of use without becoming distressed.

Some Woods Look Better Stained

Another factor you need to take into consideration is whether you want the wood grain in your cabinets to be visible. For example, rustic cabinets typically feature natural wood grain, including knots, worm holes, and other unique characteristics. So if you enjoy the natural wood aesthetic, you need to choose a type of wood that looks good stained.

Pine, cherry, hickory, alder, walnut, and oak all look beautiful stained. So think about the color and characteristics of the wood you would like to have in your kitchen. Then, choose a species to match.

Some Woods Are Better for Painting

On the other hand, if you prefer painted cabinets, you need to choose wood that is smooth. Typically, maple works best for painted cabinets. It’s a durable hardwood that will stand up to use in your kitchen. But the grain of wood is small, so it won’t interfere with a smooth finish.

Modern and contemporary cabinets are typically painted, so maple is a great choice if you prefer these styles. Maple also works well for Shaker cabinets, since they are frequently painted, too.

Some Woods Better Fit Certain Cabinet Styles

Custom wood cabinets are a sizeable investment, so you want to be certain you’ll love the finished product. To that end, it’s important to consider the cabinet style you want when selecting a wood species. Some woods better fit certain cabinet styles.

As we mentioned above, maple is typically featured in modern and contemporary cabinets, but it can also be used in Shaker and rustic/country cabinets, too. In addition to maple, country/rustic cabinets often feature hardwoods like oak, hickory, and pine. Shaker cabinets most often feature woods native to the Northeastern United States, like maple, oak, hickory, and cherry. And traditional cabinets make a formal statement with woods like mahogany, cherry, and walnut.

Some Woods Are Easier On Your Budget

Some species of wood, like pine, tend to be cheaper. And other species, like mahogany, tend to be on the more expensive side. So you may need to take your budget into consideration when choosing a wood species.

However, because we use high-grade materials and construction techniques, we find that the type of finish and style of door you choose have the most impact on the price of your cabinets. So before you discount a particular species of wood, it’s worth getting a quote to see whether it fits in your budget after all.

When it comes to kitchen cabinets, some woods are definitely better than others. But don’t worry, we’re happy to help you choose the right species to fit your vision. Give us a call or contact us online to begin the process.

 

 

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6 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Kitchen Cabinet Contractor

Purchasing new kitchen cabinets is a major investment. So you want to make sure the work is done right. But how can you be sure you’re hiring a good contractor to build and install your cabinets? By asking the right questions! Here are six questions to ask before choosing a kitchen cabinet contractor.

1. Can You Provide Your License Number?

Unfortunately, there are plenty of people out there who make promises they don’t deliver. Asking for a contractor’s license number is a good way to weed them out. If a contractor won’t provide a license number, steer clear. They likely don’t have one at all.

On the other hand, a reputable contractor should be ready and willing to share their license number. Not only does this give you confidence that the contractor is legitimate, but it also gives you the ability to check whether there have been any recent complaints against the contractor, too. Just reach out to your state’s consumer affairs department to check that the contractor is in good standing.

2. Do You Have Insurance?

The second question you should always ask a potential contractor is whether they have insurance. The last thing you want is to make a pricey kitchen cabinet investment only to have something go wrong and learn your contractor isn’t insured. Asking about insurance potentially saves you from trouble later.

A good contractor should carry liability insurance, automobile insurance, and workman’s compensation insurance (if they have employees). This both protects your investment and shields you from liability for accidents, injuries, and public property damage. Never hire a contractor who is uninsured.

3. What’s Your Wait Time, and How Many Current Projects Do You Have?

It’s natural to be excited for your kitchen remodel to start. You want your new cabinets as soon as possible! But it’s not always a good sign if a contractor is available to work on your project right away. After all, a busy contractor is probably popular for a reason!

So ask about typical wait times and how many projects the contractor currently has going on. It’ll give you an idea of how in-demand the contractor’s services are. And you’ll have a better idea of how long you have to prepare for your kitchen renovation to begin.

4. How Does the Installation Process Work?

If you’ve never had new kitchen cabinets installed, you probably don’t know what the process involves. So ask the contractor how their process works. Be sure to ask about what you can expect, how long your kitchen will be unavailable, and how the contractor will keep in contact with you.

Understanding what to expect from the kitchen cabinet installation process allows you to plan around the work that’s going on. And it gives you a realistic idea of what to expect. And with everyone on the same page, the process is much more likely to progress smoothly.

5. Do You Offer a Warranty?

Installing new kitchen cabinets is a great way to improve both your home’s aesthetic and its resale value. So it’s typically a sound investment. But what happens when it’s not? Since kitchen cabinets cost a significant amount of money, you should always ask whether a contractor offers a warranty.

No one can protect against unforeseen accidents or misuse of your new cabinets. So if  your 10-year-old son and his friend ruin your cabinets with frequent water fights in the kitchen, that’s not covered. But your contractor should offer a warranty covering defects in materials or workmanship for a certain amount of time to protect your investment. Here at Edgewood Cabinetry, for example, we warranty our cabinets for five years if they fail under normal use due to defects in workmanship or materials.

Hiring a contractor to build and install new kitchen cabinets is a big decision. Asking these five questions will help you choose a reputable one.

Would you like to learn more about whether Edgewood Cabinetry is a good fit for you? We’re happy to answer your questions and give you a free quote. Just drop us a line, and we’ll be in touch soon!

 

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