Category: Kitchens

Frameless Shower Screens & Doors

Pros and Cons of Frameless Shower Screens & Doors

When you decide to make some changes to your bathroom, or you’re building a home from the ground up, there is a lot to think about. One of those things is shower screens and doors, and whether they are the best choice for you.

Showers come in all shapes and sizes, so it’s not as easy as you might think to make a decision. If you need a helping hand, read on. We list the pros and cons of frameless shower screens and why (or why not) they’re right for you.

Pro: They Convey Space

When you have a framed shower, cubicle, or box, your bathroom can seem small. Believe it or not, boxy lines can break up a room to its detriment.

A frameless shower offers flow and conveys feelings of space. There are no lines to get in the way of your eyesight. An added bonus is that you can then create a shower feature wall. Your bathroom can be both stylish and functional as a result.

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Plumbing

How Not To Be Hard On Your Plumbing

How are your New Year’s resolutions travelling so far? You wanted to improve your health, increase your bank account, and spend a bit more time with the family. What about putting your plumbing on a diet? The health of our plumbing is rarely thought of, but the water quality and the condition of our plumbing pipes can also affect overall health. That has a knock-on effect with our families and our wallets.

Water Quality and Health

The experts at completebathroomsolutions.com.au advise that every fixture in your home is affected by unhealthy water, and that doesn’t mean hard water. Our drinking water has chlorine, fluoride, and other chemicals. If you have a filtration system under your sink you are drinking well-filtered water. Or, you prefer to drink bottled water. But consider the water quality that is being distributed through every tap. When you cook, you use tap water. When you have a bath, you simply turn on the taps. Taking a shower your pores are absorbing chlorine and the other chemicals, and the hard water is causing skin and hair dryness.

The Cost of Hard Water

If you think about it, hard water is costing you money. Most people don’t like to spend money unnecessarily on plumbing repairs. The life span of all your plumbing fittings is affected by hard water – taps, shower valves, water heater, toilets, supply lines, and if you are spending money to colour your hair, hard water is shortening the lifespan of that as well. The average lifespan of a water heater is somewhere between 7 – 10 years and hard water is one of the culprits that causes shorter life. If you look at the capital outlay for a water heater, about $1500, depending on the type you buy, you will want to get a reasonable number of years of use out of it.

Hard water is due to the calcium content and it can also calcify the ports on a toilet. That means a less than effective flush which can result in the use of a plunger. Toilet replacement may be the ultimate solution. The bottom line is that hard water is just that, hard, on your appliances as well as your plumbing.

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Kitchen Cabinet Lightening

Helpful Tips for Lightening Your Kitchen Cabinets

The kitchen is essentially a workspace, and as all workspaces go, the functional design and layout of the kitchen area needs to support the level of efficiency required for the function it serves. One key element of kitchen design that contributes very much to both the aesthetic ambience of your kitchen, as well as, the ease of food preparation is lighting.

Kitchen lighting, especially for kitchen cabinets is fast catching on as the most effective way of lighting up your workspace. Light fixtures, usually in the form of spotlights are fixed above the cabinet counter top in regular intervals along its length, and unlike a light source fixed onto the kitchen ceiling, there are no shadows caused by obstructions because the light falls directly onto the cabinet surface, especially when they are done well by the Electrician Perth Experts.

If you want to install under cabinet lighting to an already existing cabinet set up in your kitchen, you can have it installed with the help of a professional electrician. Most cabinet makers give you the option of installing different types of under cabinet lighting to your custom kitchen cabinet, but make sure you give clear specifications before plans are laid out so that the cabinet maker can clearly ascertain the placing of wires and electrical fixtures before installation. Continue reading “Helpful Tips for Lightening Your Kitchen Cabinets”

Kitchen Furniture Colour

Preferred Colours for Kitchen Furniture

Choosing colours for kitchen furniture and the room itself means that you will have to do a lot of research on what style you would want and what the appearance should say. White is always a very classy colour. It will make the room look large and give enough light; however you have to put in more effort to maintain it over the years. Or even going with pale yellow will give your kitchen a lively touch. It will also make the rest of the house seem more sophisticated.

It is important to remember that kitchen furniture is different from furniture in other rooms. In a kitchen even the refrigerator can be considered as furniture. Red and white are preferred colours for kitchen furniture which gives the room a very bright and modern look. Making your kitchen brown and choosing a wooden look can give the house a very homely feel. It will make your kitchen look quite luxurious. Pink kitchen furniture has been around for a while and if you want to give it fifties vibe then this would be ideal. In a bright kitchen, such as a yellow or white kitchen, make the lighting dim. It will give it a good ambience and setting. These are a few ideas that you can use when deciding colours for your kitchen, but make sure you get a few opinions before you settle into one idea because you will have to live the rest of your life with it.

Kitchen Cabinet Designs

How to Choose Kitchen Cabinet Designs

A kitchen is a highly specialized and functional area that requires good planning if it is to be a place you enjoy being in. Before ordering your kitchen cabinet, you need to think about what exactly you want out of your new kitchen layout, what needs are currently met, and what features of your kitchen you are prepared to compromise for a better set up.

There is no point however, in dreaming up elaborate ideas if your kitchen will be unable to hold them. A good grasping of how space will be utilized is of extreme importance, especially if you have a very small kitchen. There will be basic functions that you might need your new kitchen to fulfil, such as efficient storage, work area, good lighting and ventilation. Check on the layout of your kitchen (including where the windows and doors are) and then decide where you want your kitchen cabinet installed.

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Cleaning Kitchen Cabinets

Cleaning Your Kitchen Cabinets

When it comes to cleaning kitchen cabinets, you should note that there are quite a few aspects that need to be considered. Especially in this day and age, you will realise that there are quite a few materials that are utilized in order to create kitchen cabinets. However, at the same time while most of these materials are in fact versatile and functional, there is also the issue of maintenance that needs to be looked into. Like tile cleaning, this is something that needs to be considered rather seriously since using the wrong solvents on some materials may destroy them.

Commercial cleaning experts have said, as a rule of thumb, you should consistently clean out your cabinets with the most basic of solvents. For instance, using a damp cloth and cleaning out kitchen cabinets are a good idea. The key to this is consistency. Cleaning up cabinets once a week would be more than enough. Of course if you do have kitchen cabinets made out of wood, then you must ensure that you use things like olive oil since this would bring out that rich patina on the wood. Moreover, things like cabinet hardware need to be removed (if that is possible) and then put in soap water, in order to be cleaned.

Kitchen Cabinet Trends

2010’s Kitchen Cabinet Trends

Cabinet design is certainly an aspect that does need quite a bit of discussion. The fact of the matter is that throughout the years cabinet designs have evolved into something that is generally more versatile and functional, not to mention stylish. One must keep in mind that while there is a usual change in various trends, some are inherently the same. It is best to always choose a design that is memorable and also long lasting. The various trends in 2010 when it comes to kitchen cabinets offer a great choice for all. But 2010 allows you to have designs that are a true reflection of you.

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New Kitchen

Owning a New Kitchen with a New Delight

Design wise, kitchen spaces are a lot more versatile than we think. A lot of new kitchens are now designed along bolder and more streamlined ideas, regardless of space. Of course, designing a kitchen requires some professional expertise, but the results are very much worth it.

The starting point for any degree of change is always conscious choice. You need to know exactly what you want in order for you to get it. Kitchens now have beautiful design schemes such as open plan kitchens, country style and even green kitchens that incorporate innovative technology to make your kitchen space even better. Now you can have heated kitchen floors, telescopic swivel ventilation systems and a sink that doubles up as serving station for your guests.

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Professional Cabinet Makers

Self Made Kitchen Cabinets – Oh No!!!!

Here’s the truth. Some things are better done alone and other things don’t last in one piece for over a few minutes if you don’t have experience in assembling/ producing them. Kitchen cabinets are definitely not one of those things you can do alone unless you have years of practical experience and a skilled helper.

First and foremost, you need to remember that things like kitchen cabinets are made for a lifetime. Having broken, squeaking or cracking kitchen cabinets can be frustrating to the inhabitant of the house. In fact, when it comes to installing the doors, setting up shelves, pivoting and fixing locks, professionals have more experience to delight your new kitchen. They would know the best brands of products and the most tactful ways to put everything together and make sure the result is perfect, especially if you plan on having wooden cabinetry around your oven and stove, it has to be done correctly for prevention and protection from potential fires.

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Kitchen Cabinet Pest Care

Pest Care for Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchens have their fair share of pests and steps need to be taken to prevent infestation. If your cabinets are made of wood, then you can probably expect a swarm of termites eating into the woodwork and weakening the structure of your kitchen cabinets. Though these pests do not have negative implications on health, if left ignored can ruin your expensive hardwood kitchen set up and cost you a lot of money. The best way to deal with these pests would be to call in the professionals. Termite exterminators and pest control companies can get rid of the termites and treat the wood to prevent future infestations. It is a good idea to go for treated wood prior to the construction of your custom kitchen cabinet and do constant check ups for termites in the woodwork.

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Kitchen Cabinets

How to Save Space with Kitchen Cabinets

If the amount of dishes and bowls on your kitchen cabinets requires a huge amount of effort, you know you are facing a dilemma. The entire process of saving space will need a bit of free time, but hey! doesn’t anything? First and foremost evaluate your kitchen cabinets. Do you have plates that are only used during a special occasion? Do you have bowls and plates stacked one on top of the other? The key is organisation. Find another spot for those plates that are preserved for guests. You can try and hang cups on hooks, purchase racks so that you can keep your bowls and mugs and other stuff.

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Rotating Kitchen

Smart Ways to Save Space with Your Kitchen Cabinets

Efficient utilization of space especially in kitchens is of prime importance and many designers are coming up with innovative ideas to do just that.

A recent challenge for both designers and architects gave birth to the ingenious rotating kitchen idea. This contraption looks like a giant expansion tool and is pretty funky to boot. There is single storage compartment (a fridge) at one end while the other end is made up of chunky functional layers that can be revolved on a single axis individually. They can all be lined up against the wall when not in use and is somewhat similar in application to the sofa bed. The bottom layer is a counter top and cabinet on wheels while the middle and top layer consists of storage and cooking elements such as in built ovens and microwaves. These rotating kitchens are still in the test market stage and will probably be introduced later next year.

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Digital Kitchen Cabinets

What Are Digital Kitchen Cabinets?

You may have heard of digital file cabinets, where passwords are set and programs are used to find a file with a keyword, but have you heard of this technology emerging in the kitchen? Digital clocks in the bedroom, yes; digital heating systems, yes, but a kitchen cabinet with built-in electronic gadgets is definitely not something many would have anticipated on. Imagine being able to download all your favourite recipes and let a simple piece of equipment keep you entertained while in the kitchen. Cooking would definitely be fun!

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Granite Counter Tops

03 Reasons Why Granite Counter Tops Are The Preferred Choice For New Kitchens

When considering a new kitchen, you should remember that counter tops are of great importance. It would be safe to state that without a counter top that a kitchen is not complete. It would in essence be doing away with a part of the kitchen that is both functional and versatile. It is imperative that you choose a counter top that is done up with the proper material. While there are many materials, like formica and quartz, that are utilized for counter tops like paper laminates, there is a quite a change happening in the industry. In recent times, granite counter tops have been making a comeback. There are three good reasons for this.

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Kitchen Furniture

Why Doesn’t Cost Cutting Save You Money When It Comes To Kitchen Furniture?

With the living expenses skyrocketing on a daily basis, cost cutting around the household has become a necessity today. We have come to a point where Swiss cheese and oriental spices have become a luxury. However, what you must realise is that cost cutting too, just like anything else must be done with perfect caution.

I recall a time when I, myself bought recycled pillows for my newly designed cushion covers, which turned rock hard after a couple of washes. Not only did it disappoint me, but also made me spend extra cash. Kitchen furniture too, is on of those things that must be done perfectly, once and for all.

You sure don’t want to imagine having to renovate the kitchen every other day or having to replace the kitchen cabinet doors every winter. Here are the commonest options that you will come across when it comes to cost cutting in kitchen furniture making.

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Wooden Kitchen Cabinets

Tips for Maintaining Wooden Kitchen Cabinets

Wooden Kitchen CabinetsYour kitchen cabinets are bound to have a few scratches, marks and scars over the years. You cannot expect them to be in excellent shape after five or ten years. So if you have installed wooden kitchen cabinets newly then, follow these simple tips on maintaining the quality. Use water and soap which must be equally mixed on the furniture. Do not use detergents or soap pads. Use a soft sponge but not a steel scrubbing pad as this will do more damage than good. Pay extra attention to the handles of the cabinets as we always touch it, allowing it to gather bacteria over the years.

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Kitchen Cabinet Doors

The Truth behind the Use of Deglossers for Kitchen Cabinet Doors

When it comes to the topic of kitchen cabinets, remember that deglossers are certainly a hot topic. Yet it needs to be mentioned that these deglossers are not exactly the safest thing in the world. This is why it is best to be more conscious of what you use and opt for something that is more environmentally-friendly. This can in essence be more beneficial to your health and help you stay away from harmful chemical substances that in fact cripple you. There is evidence to show that deglossers can in fact be harmful if they come in contact with your skin.

These chemicals also can cause grievous damage to your eyes. This is not all there is in terms of bad news; rather many more issues can crop up with these terrible chemicals. For instance, if you are pregnant and you do come into contact with such deglossers then you could very well expose your unborn child to harm. Such chemical components will only affect you physically but can also lead you to experience depression, since they would affect your nervous system at the end of the day. Taking all of this information into consideration it is best that you opt for “deglossers” that are organic and are not harmful hen dealing with kitchen cabinet doors.

Oak Kitchen Furniture

The Elegance of Oak Kitchen Furniture

Oak is an extremely attractive and popular choice for furniture because of its high durability and strength as well as for the beauty of its grain. The density of oak, which is very high (0.75 g/cm³) contributes to its hardiness and the wood is both insect and fungus resistant due to its high tannin content.

The colour of oak wood varies according to the type of oak and where it is grown, but oak wood in general is considered beautiful enough to carry its own colour. Because oak is open grained, it is far more susceptible to novelty finishes than any other wood and can also be stained to bring out the beauty of its grain.

Kitchen furniture made out of oak wood is extremely flattering to any decor scheme. The colour of the wood will add character and a certain charm and elegance to your kitchen that other woods cannot achieve.

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Reface Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen Cabinets: Is It Better To Reface Or Replace?

Refacing or replacing is a notorious issue when it comes to kitchen cabinets. The fact that needs to be looked into here would be the degree of damage that has been done. You see, with most homeowners, when it comes to the issue of cash, they would rather be stingy and keep their kitchen cabinets. However, it would be dangerous to have cabinets that are not that functional or are close to being decrepit. The fact of the matter here is that you need to see if there is any structural damage with regard to your kitchen cabinets. This is why you have to make a choice between either refacing or replacing them.

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Sustainable Counter Top

03 Reasons Why A Sustainable Counter Top Will Be Ideal For Your New Kitchen

When discussing new kitchens, it should be noted that counter tops are in great demand. The reasons for this are obvious. However, the issue with most counter tops is the fact that they are not sustainable of environmentally friendly. There is growing demand for recyclable materials such as bamboo for instance. In fact, most Australian companies are phasing off the conventional type of counter tops that have formaldehyde-free laminates.

Needless to say, the issue here is that these laminates could very well give off dangerous gaseous toxins into the air. This is a good enough reason for all homeowners to get sustainable kitchen tops instead of what is conventionally available. Other sustainable counter tops are made from hard wood that lasts long and would eventually take on a classy patina as time goes on.

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