5 High Value Kitchen Improvements

Today we are looking at the 5 cheapest ways to add the most value to your kitchen so you can get the biggest bang for your buck. We are going to do this by examining what a high quality paint job looks like, some options for getting a new look through flooring, giving your cabinets and the whole room a facelift by refinishing cabinets and replacing hardware. Finally, we will look at taking your space up a notch with crown moldings.

1) Paint

Fresh paint is by far the simplest and most effective way to breath new life into a space. Paying close attention to detail during this process is imperative. Haphazard caulking, inconsistent edging and lack of care taken during wall prep can make this project all for not. On the flip side, entertaining guests in a kitchen where the proper attention has been given to every detail gives homeowners something to truly be proud of.

2) Flooring

Flooring is the second biggest impact item on the list because you are covering a large area. Your decisions here can really change the entire feel of the room.

Hardwood- Are you looking for a warm and cozy space that brings you close to nature? Hardwood is great for this as long as your budget will allow for it. Good wood and a proper install can be on the pricey side but so worth it!

Tile- Are you looking for a strong, bold or even unique design? Tile could be the way to go for you. The prices on tile vary wildly and the install prices vary wildly. As far as materials go, it really just depends on the design you are looking for. With the install, cheaper is not always better. A poorly installed tile floor could fall apart in weeks or at very least become a serious eye sore. Tile installation is both a science and an art. AVOID tiles with smooth surfaces in kitchens, they become slick.

Vinyl- This option offers just about any look to fit any budget. The options really are limitless here whether you go sheet vinyl or click together tiles. It is a great option for a budget friendly kitchen as it can last a VERY long time with proper installation.

3) Cabinet Refinish

There are two ways of refreshing your kitchen cabinets. Which way you go really depends on the design you have in mind, how different the design is from the current one and the condition of your existing cabinets.

New paint or stain- If your cabinets are physically in good shape, the overall all new look you are going for can work with the same style of cabinets and budget is a top priority, this could be a great option for you. You can inexpensively make your cabinets look new again. It does have a downside, which is time and energy. This is a VERY labor intensive task. You have to completely take all of the hardware off of you cabinets and sand them. And keep sanding them. Still sanding. Just keep sanding…

…eventually you can stop sanding and apply the new finish. Just make sure to use the proper application tools and you are on your way to the finish line.

New Doors and Refacing- Refacing boxes and putting on new doors is becoming fairly popular these days. While this greatly reduces the amount of sanding involved, it can still be pretty expensive. Doors, hardware and hardwood materials are not cheap. This is however a great option if your cabinet faces have taken a beating over the years. OR, if you want to make a significant change to the outer design of the cabinets.

4) Replace Hardware/Fixtures

This one is pretty straight forward. Having beat up fixtures and hardware or even just having the finish tarnished can really put out the spark in a room. Since these items are the accent pieces in the room, they get noticed, for better or worst, very easily. Fresh metal with a consistent theme to the finish is a very quick and not terribly expensive way to reignite a kitchen.

5) Crown Molding

Crown Molding is the cherry on top. If you like the style of your kitchen but it just doesn't have the WOW factor, this could be your answer. Crown Molding really draws your attention higher in the room, it really presents the full height of the room in all its glory. Since most people slouch or often look down, bringing their attention up can really offer a breath of fresh air and a feeling of pride. This is also something that can really be made to be as simple or complex as you like, so if you already have Crown Molding and it just isn't giving you the pop you need, you can go with a larger footprint, custom corner boxes or even lower it and add lighting up above to really make it pop.

At the end of the day, the number ONE piece of the puzzle when it comes to adding value to your home is quality work. All five topics today will undoubtedly add the flavor to spice up your kitchen. You just want to make sure you season your projects like a pro and add the right amount of salt and the right amount of pepper. When you are ready to take a hard look at your kitchen and open up the spice cabinet, give Amato Elmore Construction a call. We know flavor!