Great Kitchen Guidelines and Tips.

Hear are the Kitchen Guidelines !

Everything you need to know to layout a basic floor plan for your Discount Cabinet Kitchen! Standard sizes of cabinets, appliances and sinks plus industry standards for the Work Triangle, countertop space for task areas. Print out the kitchen planning grid for entering your room measurements and your 'rough draft'.

Cabinetry is sized using the 3" increment system. While custom and semi-custom (built-to-order) cabinets may allow some 'odd dimension' modifications, using the 3" system will serve you well when working on your basic floor plan.Most appliances are standardized sizes, but a few, like microwaves are not. Always check appliance manufacturer's specifications to be sure you have allowed the correct amount of space for your final selection in each category!

Dishwashers - 24" wide (for installation in a cabinet, raising the height, allow 27")

Free-standing and drop-in ranges - 3-" wide

Cook Tops - 30", 36" wide. (Some modular units available in 42" and 48" wide)

Wall Ovens - 27", 30", 36" wide. (Note: since wall ovens are always built-in, actual oven widths vary. The dimensions given here represent the cabinet sizes required.)

Refrigerators - free-standing models, 30 - 36" wide. (Built-in models, up to 48" wide)

Trash Compactors - 15" and 18" wide

Microwave Ovens – Varied

Sinks - Varied, but most are designed to fit in 30", 33" or 36" base cabinets. (Be sure to check manufacturer's specifications on your final selection!)

The National Kitchen and Bath Association (a trade organization for kitchen and bath dealers, designers, manufacturers, etc.) has established guidelines for kitchen planning. Prioritize the guidelines in case you cannot accomplish them all. Check them off as you complete your plan to be sure you have planned adequate space for each task area in your kitchen. Be sure to have a kitchen design specialist review your plan before ordering!

To see the FULL 40 guidelines from the NKBA, please download this PDF file by clicking here.

Amber Cabinet price list

Amber Cabinet price list
Originally uploaded by ccsmithaz

Here is our new price list for our Amber stain cabinets.

Great Low prices for a great cabinet.

Go Green with Maple Hardwood Cabinets

(the following article is from Bob Nance at Kitchen and Bath insights)

They’re Green!

There’s a lot of emphasis on being green these days. Many modern, new construction homes are now built with an eye toward Earth-friendly materials. And yet, who thinks of their maple wood cabinets as being Earth-friendly or respectful of the environment? Don’t we have to cut trees to make them? Fact is, wood is one of the only long-lasting building materials derived from a renewable source - and they are far more earth-friendly than you may think.

Like the fruits and vegetables you cook in your kitchen, Maple Kitchen cabinets are the product of an agricultural crop that is harvested and replanted. Unlike building materials such as iron ore that are only mined on a depleting basis, we can replenish our wood sources with responsible replanting. In addition, other building materials, such as steel, can take up to three times as much energy as wood to extract, manufacture, transport and construct!

According to the University of Georgia’s Center for Invasive Species and Ecosystem Health, “In general, products made from steel, glass, plastic, cement, or brick require approximately 24, 14, 6, and 4.5 times more energy, respectively, than does wood to make a final product.” Not to mention the fact that wood is recyclable and biodegradable!

They’re Timeless

We know their look is timeless. The character of solid maple hardwoods and their subtle wood grain isn’t going out of style. But being made of wood, will they last as long as newer materials? Aren’t particleboard or fiberboard cabinets made of recycled materials and better for the environment? No and Yes. Don’t be fooled. The inherent biodegradability of hardwood doesn’t mean these custom cabinets won’t last for years hanging in your kitchen – they will actually last longer than some of the recycled materials that scratch more easily – and in terms of energy, it’s arguable that it takes more energy and fossil fuels to recycle products than to reuse. I.e., in terms of energy and cost, replacing less durable cabinets made of recycled materials several times over may be more costly to the pocketbook and environment in the long-run than simply installing durable, real wood custom kitchen cabinets and reusing them for generations. With a timeless look like maple, it’s easy to imagine keeping these cabinets for decades and simply updating your other décor when a fresh look is desired.
A solid maple kitchen cabinet is a hard wood, intrinsically more resistant to surface damage than recycled or fabricated materials (even more so when we finish it with a fine-grained texture and wax to bring out the natural grain). If you doubt the difference between pressed particle boards and maple hardwood, visit your local lumber yard or home improvement store and take a nail to a sample piece of each. You’ll find it much easier to damage the former than the latter! This is not to say that only hardwood cabinets are good and that cabinets with pressed recycled materials are bad. It simply means that cabinets constructed with newer materials inside may need better care in your high traffic area or more quality treatments and finishes to protect them.

You simply can’t substitute the warmth and charm of real maple cabinets, and hardwood maple is a sound investment for your remodel project. Better yet, if you’re looking to be kind to the environment with longevity and sustained use, remember that Maple kitchen cabinets will give your home a contemporary, timeless appeal rooted in nature.

We can help.

Woodsmith Cabinetry offers a line of maple hardwood cabinetry. These are pre-built and they are in-stock. The photos shown in this article are of our "Spice Maple" line of cabinets. Call us at 480-600-5700 or come visit our showroom at 720 N. Golden Key St in Gilbert (near Cooper and Guadalupe). We offer free estimates and kitchen design.

Another Happy Customer

I don't like to toot my own horn, but I would like to brag about how well my staff treat customers who come in to get help with cabinets.

Here is an email I received today:

May 13, 2010

Cord,

From the time that we first called Woodsmith Cabinetry for our kitchen remodeling needs, Amy Daniel was so responsive and accommodating. The preliminary drafts were done very quickly and the final measurements were 100% accurate. Amy helped us understand the details of the design that would maximize our space and improve things that we didn't like before.

Overall, we are very happy with the design, quality and value of the kitchen cabinets that were crafted by Woodsmith Cabinetry. We considered using Home
Depot or Lowe's when remodeling our kitchen, but instead, we decided on Woodsmith Cabinetry because of the quality service that was provided from the moment that we made the call. Our kitchen has gone from a traditional
1970's look, to being a kitchen that looks like it belongs in a model home.

We would highly recommend Woodsmith Cabinetry to our family and friends. We are also considering using Woodsmith Cabinetry for our bathroom cabinets.

Ken Kochanski - Phoenix

Microwave Drawer - A great IDEA!

The Microwave Drawer

Over the past few years, I have been seeing more and more of these "Microwave Drawers".

Originally, I thought they were only for disabled/wheelchair folks. Now I see them in lot's of kitchens. Kids can finally get to the microwave without climbing up on the counter and burning their feet on the hot stove. Cool!

Sharp Electronics’ Microwave Drawer has re-invented kitchen convenience by disposing of countertop clutter. The Microwave Drawer is designed to fit under counters, stovetops, or wall ovens, as well as within islands.

Find out more at www.sharpusa.com.

A Cool NEW product. Cabi-shield

I know a lot of people who needed this thing. Great idea! .... Cord

The following text is from Kitchen and Bath Design News...


Consumer wallets are shrinking and homeowners are looking to protect their investments. Kitchens represent a large portion of that investment. Under-the-sink kitchen plumbing leaks happen all too often and usually go undetected until significant water damage and mold growth has occurred. That's because most leaks are slow in nature and leaking water is absorbed by the cabinet base and adjacent cabinets.

Mr. Cabi-Shield, made by Beyond Compare Innovations, protects under-the-sink kitchen cabinets by shielding the cabinet base and diverting leaking water to the front where it accumulates in a holding area. When placed in the holding area, Mrs. Know-Leaks, a water detection system, alerts the homeowner of the presence of water. The leak can then be easily repaired without the hassle and expense of replacing one or more kitchen cabinets. Together, these two products represent a homeowners best solution in under-the-sink cabinet protection.

Beyond Compare Innovations is the manufacturer of Mr. Cabi-Shield Protective Cabinet Mat www.cabi-shield.com and Mrs. Know-Leaks Water Detection System. Leo Vainshtein can be contacted at info@cabi-shield.com and by phone at 480-584-7581.

Kitchen Planning and the Kitchen Triangle!!!

The Kitchen Triangle Distance
The triangle design distance for an ideal kitchen is often stated to range from 12 to 26 feet. The distance between appliances for your new kitchen design may vary slightly. Know as you plan your remodel design that the triangle distances do not have to match exactly (A very common assumption new kitchen design planners make). For instance - One triangle leg length for your new kitchen may be much shorter if your sink is close by to your refrigerator.

Planning Your New Kitchen
Careful planning of your new kitchen design could save you a lot of money! Planning a new design kitchen does takes time, careful planning, and understanding. Working with a kitchen design team may help you with the process of planning a new kitchen, still in the end the decisions for your new kitchen design will come back to you. Careful measurements of your existing kitchen design is one item that will need to happen if you are planning a kitchen remodel.

How To Plan For Your Kitchen Remodeling
As you start the process of planning your new kitchen design be sure to understand your goals. Place photos, magazine clippings, Internet print outs such as this page, and other kitchen design planning ideas in your own new special place - Your Kitchen Design Planning Hiding Place. Your new kitchen planner could be a plastic tote or box. Including a file inside of your kitchen remodeling planning box as your new kitchen design planning progresses will help ensure when your remodeling does progress - You will be pleased with the results for your new kitchen!

Plan Your New Kitchen Design In Advance
Quick comment - Plan your kitchen remodel in advance! Often there are delivery times to wait for new kitchen cabinets and countertops that range from 9 to 12 weeks even for Stock Kitchen Cabinets! So do not delay - Keep moving - Understanding your goals and the needs for your new kitchen thus implementing one of the most effective methods of achieving the desired results for new kitchens!

Five ‘Must Do’s’ When Remodeling Your Kitchen

The following article is from "Tucson Kitchen and Bath Blog" Enjoy.....


Are you tired of the wallpaper in your kitchen? Does your floor need a face-lift? Are your cabinets worn out? Is it time to completely remodel your kitchen?

If you answered “Yes” to any or all of these questions, then it is time for a change. It is time to remodel your kitchen. Now is the perfect time to remodel your kitchen because the construction industry has slowed down a bit. That means that everyone you need to help you remodel your kitchen will be able to give you unbeatable prices and undivided attention.

Here are few must do’s to ensure that your kitchen is remodeled the right way.

1. Start with a Plan. The most important thing you can do before beginning such a large process is to create a plan. Are you going to redo the entire kitchen or just the cabinets? What style do you want? Do your research. You must spend adequate time researching the best suppliers and contractors in your area. Carefully decide who is going to do the best job with the bounds of your budget. You must also make sure that you meet with these specialists often to make sure that everyone is on the same page. This will save time and headaches down the road.

2. Create a Workbook. All major projects require a workbook of some sort. Your workbooks should contain everything related to the remodeling project. It will save you time to keep everything associated with the project in one place; receipts, color swatches, pictures of styles that you like, etc. Your vision for the project will most likely be transferred to the contractor if you have something to show him or her.

3. Establish a budget. Another important step to take when it comes time to remodel your kitchen is to create a budget. Also, your budget needs to be realistic. For instance, you cannot establish a budget without first knowing realistic prices. Spend time researching actual prices for new appliances, the cost of new cabinets, and anything else associated with your remodel. A good rule to follow is to set your budget 20 percent below what you can actually afford. This will allow a buffer for any unexpected costs or problems that you might run into.

4. Understand the difference between Cabinet Price and Cabinet Performance. When it comes to remodeling your cabinets, you cannot sacrifice performance for cost. You need to understands the components of cabinets that you can scale back on and the ones you can’t afford to undercut. For instance, the components of cabinets that get used the most are drawers. Thus, you need to make sure that you use top-quality products to build the drawers (drawer glides and more). On the other hand, you might be able to use particle board instead of plywood. Plywood is more expensive and really doesn’t serve any added functionality to particle board.

5. The countertop doesn’t need to be “top of the line.” A common misconception is that in order to get the most beautiful and functional countertop, you need a “top of the line” countertop. Quartz and granite countertops are the top performing countertops, although you might be surprised to know what laminate countertops can do. Laminate countertops are more versatile and economical. Additionally, there are more options when choosing a laminate countertop (more styles, more colors, more finishes). Although the new “High Definition” laminate finish is more expensive than the standard finish, it is still more economical than a quartz or granite countertop. Similarly, the high definition finish performs well and would be a great choice for normal home use.

If it is time to remodel your kitchen, then it is time to review these steps. Don’t start the remodeling process without understanding as much as you can about the process of remodeling. Follow these steps to ensure that your remodel is quick and smooth.

Who is this guy? plus.... Tip of the day!

If you made it to my blog and have made it this far, you might be saying, "Who is this guy and what does he know that I don't about kitchens?" Great question! I began learning about kitchen "stuff" eleven years ago when I began building cabinets for my father-in-law. I was a college grad with a history major who was failing miserably at selling life insurance. I think my father-in-law did not want to see his daughter and grandbaby starve to death, so he asked me if I wanted to learn the "cabinet" trade. I had never taken shop class or woodworking. I had never even run a table saw. "Yes" was my answer! I didn't feel like starving too.

Long story short, I have designed and built countless kitchens over the past 11 years. Some have been very large and expensive ($54,000 kitchen in a $5 million dollar home) and some have been quite small. ($899 kitchen in a small bank repo)

I often design kitchens to be more practical and functional over ascetics. I think a kitchen needs to look great while it serves it's purpose of feeding our bellies.

Over the years I have learned a few tips and tricks that can make a good kitchen GREAT and a great kitchen even BETTER!

What am I talking about? OK... Here's a freebie!

TIP of the DAY:

Electrical Outlets- Ugly on the backsplash. Send them to a secret hiding place!

These days remodeling your kitchen often includes a new backsplash (the area between the countertop and the upper cabinet above it). Some backsplashes are made of granite to match the countertop or a solid surface material like "corian".

These days, it is very popular to do a tile backsplash. There are some amazing designs available from tile and countertop installers. What often gets in the way of that beautiful design is a not so elegant electric outlet with it's plastic cover. These outlets are required by local building codes.

What I have seen done in many custom homes is to remove the outlets and rewire the area to allow for "outlet strips" that attach under the upper cabinets above the countertop. This is a simple idea that keeps you backsplash uncluttered with outlets and hides them up under the cabinets. You can even have MORE outlets in this unseen area for all of the stuff we like to "plug in". (cell phones, battery chargers, appliances, etc.).

See the photo above on the left? Imagine how much nicer the granite backsplash would look without those ugly black outlets and outlet covers on it. Just hide those outlets up under the cabinets with outlet strips. I have suggested this to many homeowners in the past. Some do it, and some don't. Sorry, but I can't seem to dig up a photo of one who did. When I do I'll post it.

I hope this idea helped. Enjoy and come back often.

-Cord

Here we go!

It's time to get with the times. I have been in the cabinet business for over 11 years. I have learned a few tips and tricks when it comes to remodeling a kitchen or bath. This blog is a new way I plan on sharing that information to the public. Enjoy.