Tureks Plumbing Services Blog: Posts Tagged ‘kitchen remodel’

How a Kitchen Remodel Improves Your Property Value

Monday, December 25th, 2023

Your home is not just a place to lay your head, it’s an investment that can appreciate over time. When it comes to increasing your property’s value few upgrades make a bigger impact than a well-executed kitchen remodel. Beyond the joy of cooking in a beautiful space, investing in your kitchen can yield big returns when it comes time to sell. Let’s take a look into how a kitchen remodel in Appleton, WI, can enhance both your living experience and your property value.

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Kitchen Backsplash Trends To Consider For A Kitchen Upgrade

Tuesday, November 9th, 2021

Are You Considering a Kitchen Remodel? Here Are Trends In Kitchen Backsplash 2021

kitchen backsplash trendsPerhaps you’ve recently moved into an older home and want to make it truly your own by making a few changes. Alternatively, you may have updated some aspects of your home, making others appear obsolete. Making a new backsplash is an easy way to enhance your kitchen. What are the most recent kitchen backsplash trends? Our Kitchen Remodel Appleton WI professionals share below. 

Kitchen Trends In Kitchen Backsplash

When it comes to kitchen backsplash, there are plenty of trendy and traditional materials you can choose from. To name a few, slate, granite, travertine and glass have been enjoying a fair amount of popularity among designers and homeowners in 2021. These materials are closely followed by wood and metal typically used as accents.

Our Appleton Kitchen remodel specialists share that tumbled stone backsplashes and anything with pastel hues have considerably lost their popularity in the kitchen design world.

Size and shape

Overall, larger ceramic tiles have become more popular for backsplashes. Many designers use tiles ranging 1″ X 3″ to 4″ X 12″. Some designers combine different tile shapes, colors and sizes for a more dramatic effect. You might also want to vary the depth of the materials used in your kitchen backsplash to add dynamism. Also, more and more designers are opting for vertical patterns over horizontal ones.

Using large tiles for small kitchens (and vice versa)

Can you use large tiles for the backsplash to make your small kitchen appear larger? It is possible to use large tiles to make your small kitchen larger but there are a lot of other things to consider. For one, you have to remove the clutter around your kitchen. Second, you need to use the tiles to create a horizontal line.

On the other hand, if your kitchen looks too big and you want to trim its size visually, you can use small tiles and colors.

Here, there is no single rule of thumb to follow. You can use large or small tiles no matter what the size of your kitchen is.

Matching the backsplash with other kitchen elements

The general consensus among designers is that the backsplash color should complement other elements in the kitchen including the cabinet, floor and countertop. That does not mean that you need to find an exact match. Rather, you should choose a color for the backsplash that complements the color of the other elements.

White subway tiles

Although white subway tiles remain a popular option among designers and their clients, many are veering away from these because of the basic look these offer. If you are leaning toward a more classic and clean look, you can use these tiles.

Similar materials for backsplash and countertop

A lot of designers avoid using the same materials for both as these can make the kitchen look overwhelming. It is possible to avoid this by using exotic stones.

Extending the backsplash up to the ceiling

If the wall where the backsplash is going to be placed has no wall cabinet, you can extend the tiles up to the ceiling, depending on your taste and the overall design of the kitchen.

Inspiration from Europe

One trend that is popular among Europeans is reducing the space allocated to wall cabinets, allowing the backsplash to take center stage. A lot of Europeans are also favoring the installation of tiles up to the ceiling because these are easier to clean and are more hygienic.

One good rule of thumb when choosing a backsplash color and design is to consider the kitchen lighting. The more natural light you have in your kitchen the darker you can go. If your kitchen is lacking in natural light, you will want to try and lighten up the space with lighter colors.

If you are considering a kitchen remodel, contact the remodel professionals at Turek’s Plumbing Services and let them help you start designing your beautiful new kitchen today!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in July, 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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Choosing the Right Kitchen Remodel Contractor

Wednesday, October 20th, 2021

Kitchen Remodel Contractor

Choosing the Right Kitchen Remodel Contractor 2021

A kitchen is usually the heart of the home. We often spend a lot of time in our kitchen making meals or helping the kids with homework. Many newer homes have the perfect layout and even luxurious appliances. If you’re living in the Fox Cities area, you may be considering a kitchen remodeling project. There are many factors that go into making your dream kitchen come to life. For instance, where’s the best place for appliances, the best material for countertops, better water efficiency? A new kitchen island? A sturdier, prettier floor? There are plenty of changes you can make. The most important aspect of a successful home remodeling project is choosing the right kitchen remodel contractor. In this article, we share some tips for this process.

Who Gets To Do The Work?

Since home remodeling projects costs money, it makes sense that a homeowner’s goal is to get the job done just right the first time. The best way to do this is by hiring the right kitchen remodel contractor. The success of the remodel, and the conversion of your hard-earned money into the kitchen of your dreams, depends on your choice of contractor. Therefore, it is crucial to put much thought and careful consideration into this decision.

Here are some helpful tips for choosing the right kitchen remodel contractor:

Get Reliable Recommendations

It may be easy to find a contractor online and do research about them. It is still a better idea to consider ones that are recommended by people you actually know and trust. From these sources, you can quickly get a more realistic picture of what the contractor and their kind of work are like. Create a shortlist of candidates from your friends’ or relatives’ suggestions. Our friends at Specialized Audio and Video, the #1 Sacramento AV Company, recommends looking on NextDoor or Yelp to see if the contractor is reliable. 

Ask the Right Questions

You need to be thorough about asking your references about the contractors they have recommended. Some of the more important ones are:

  • Did the contractor demonstrate positive work habits like arriving on time, being prepared for every task, cleaning up after the work, respecting the property, providing progress reports, and informing the client of any potential or existing delays?
  • Were they able to stick to the scope of the project or were any unauthorized modifications made to the details or materials used?
  • How did the contractor handle mistakes or mix-ups, if there were any?
  • Was the budget followed? What compromises were made and how did they affect the result?

See the Work for Yourself

Make time for visiting houses that the contractor previously worked on — at least the three most recent ones. A good contractor will produce high-quality work even if there have been changes to their team of laborers or subcontractors, suppliers of materials, or certain methods. It also helps to see the contractor during work in progress so you can actually observe their commitment to quality and safety.

If you are looking for a plumbing contractor in Fox Cities, contact Turek’s Plumbing today!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in September 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

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Kitchen Remodel Budget Mistakes to Avoid

Wednesday, August 18th, 2021

Kitchen Remodel Budget

Kitchen Remodel Budget Mistakes to Avoid in 2021

Kitchen remodels can offer significant ROI, when done right. If you’re not in love with your kitchen or are looking to sell in the near future, consider making some small upgrades. When you repair or switch old fixtures with modern models, you can increase the value of your property. Likewise, a few well-appointed innovations can increase the energy efficiency of your home, allowing you to reduce energy use and enjoy lower power and water bills in the long run. To ensure that you get the most bang for your buck, avoid making these common kitchen remodel mistakes. 

Remodeling Without a Plan

Take time to sit down and really think about what you want and need from your new kitchen. The biggest – and easily avoidable – expense you can face during a remodel is when you suddenly change your mind. So hire a home remodeling company to see what your new kitchen will look like in 3D. A rough sketch or some hazy description just won’t do. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., who offers general contracting in Sacramento, say this can actually cause you to go over budget.

Not Checking Your Kitchen Contractor’s Credentials

The one thing you can do that will help you significantly reduce costs and avoid unnecessary expenses is to work only with the best contractors. Having a team of established professionals to work on your kitchen will allow you to have access to solutions that are customized to your needs and aligned with your budget. So before hiring anyone, do your homework first and contact the most reputable tradespeople you can find in your area. Our friends at Specialized AV, an audio and video company in Sacramento, recommends looking up your contractors license to ensure they are who they say they are.

Being blinded by “bright, shiny” things

A snazzy splashback, expensive countertops, chic sinks, or picture-perfect floors may make your kitchen impressive, but it’s not wise to simply consider a material’s looks or popularity alone. With research and expert advice, you can find alternatives that are not as overpriced, and may even be more durable or practical for your purposes. When budgeting, prioritize the basics: good lighting, efficiency, storage, and safety. Allot your funds first for items that will improve your kitchen’s function without hampering your style.

When improving your kitchen, remember to have a plan and stick to it. Remember the basics before splurging on the pretty things, and hire only the Fox Cities plumbing experts. With this game plan, you’ll soon have a kitchen that’s dreamy and purposeful at the same time. Contact Tureks Plumbing services for all of your home remodeling needs. 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in September, 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

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How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost?

Wednesday, July 14th, 2021

Kitchen Remodel Cost

2021 How Much Does a Kitchen Remodel Cost? 

Are you planning a kitchen remodel this year? The pandemic sparked a lot of home projects. Starting kitchen remodel projects are a much bigger project than people anticipate. The first step to sticking to the budget is understanding the cost of an average kitchen remodel. So, how much does a kitchen remodel cost in 2021? Our Fox Valley home remodeling experts share more about kitchen remodel costs. 

Planning a kitchen remodel?

Before the pandemic, a homeowner could spend $4,000 to $47,000 on a kitchen remodel. On average, a typical home remodels project will hover between $11,424 and $29,178. Now that the prices of wood and materials are high, it’s likely that material could be double or even triple of what it was a year ago. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a Sacramento ground-up construction company, point out that the type of material you choose will determine the cost. Furthermore, the more unique, the more expensive. Things to consider are wall painting, cabinet refacing, kitchen sink upgrades, and the installation of a tile backsplash.

What are the factors that influence your kitchen remodel cost? Where will your budget for a remodel go?

Cabinetry and hardware account for the bulk of the expenses, taking as much as 29 percent of the overall budget. This is followed by installation costs (which usually account for 17 percent of the budget), followed by appliances and ventilation (which account for 14 percent of the budget), and countertops (which take 10 percent of the remodel budget). Other costs include design fees, lighting, flooring, doors and windows, faucets and plumbing, walls and ceilings, and other expenses.

If you want to trim your budget, there are a few areas where you can cut corners. For example, instead of hiring professionals, you can do some of the installation by yourself. Or instead of using custom cabinets for your new kitchen, you can opt for stock cabinets. Another strategy that you can try to keep costs low is to break the project into smaller pieces. This allows you to upgrade your kitchen while spreading the work and expenses across a longer timeline.

What are the other factors that you need to consider when you are planning a kitchen remodel?

One crucial factor that you need to consider is how long you are planning to live in your home. Simply put, if you are planning to sell your home in the near future, you should resist the temptation to splurge. Experts recommend spending somewhere between five to 15 percent of a home’s value for a remodel. Within this range, you can expect to recoup your investment for your kitchen’s upgrade.

You should also consider the average cost of kitchen remodels in your area. If you are planning to sell your home, your kitchen should be within the same range as the other kitchens in your neighborhood. If you over- or under-spend on your kitchen, potential buyers will notice that and might affect the performance of your home in the property market.

On the other hand, if you are not planning on moving out of your current home in the foreseeable future, you can indulge and spend as much as you can afford. You can recoup your investment through the regular use of your kitchen. 

If you have questions about kitchen remodel costs, contact the professional plumbers in Fox Cities at Turek’s Plumbing today! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date with our latest plumbing news!

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in September 2016 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. 

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Should I Hire a Contractor for a Small Kitchen Renovation?

Wednesday, February 17th, 2021

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should I hire a contractor for a small kitchen renovation?

Should I Hire a Contractor for a Small Kitchen Renovation 2021?

Many of us have taken on new and exciting DIY projects during the pandemic. If you have DIY-ed before, you know it’s not as easy as the TV shows make it out to be. Many Fox Valley homeowners are wondering if they can swing small projects like bathroom remodels or small kitchen renovations. So, the big question is, do you contact a home remodeling contractor or DIY? In the article below, we explore the pros and cons of hiring a professional. 

Save vs. Splurge on Kitchen Renovation?

“Should I hire a contractor for a small renovation?” seems like a legitimate question. That concern is especially relevant since the typical cost of a remodel starts at $12,567, according to recent data from HomeAdvisor. Meanwhile, the average cost of a minor remodel for a kitchen is at $25,340, Forbes reports.

These are figures you’re not likely to ignore. So it might make sense to think you could do the project on your own to cut down on cost.

While there are merits to that decision, there are also disadvantages to it. For starters, can you save money if you decide to become your own contractor?

You may save money because you don’t have to pay a professional fee. You may also cut back on expenses by learning some of the work, so you don’t have to hire a carpenter, painter, or tiler. There are video tutorials on just about any home improvement project.

But what happens when your amateur work creates problems in the future?

Quality Work Goes Beyond the Surface

Online video tutorials might give you a clue as to how you can move bathroom fixtures or repave the driveway. Only a licensed plumber or kitchen remodeler has the training and experience to handle such complicated jobs. Fox Valley plumber would know if fixtures need to stay where they are because of the pipe placement. Meanwhile, an asphalt paving service would apply the right mix on your driveway, preventing issues like premature potholes.

Professionals like Tureks Plumbing not only know how to do any remodeling job, but they also ensure to make it as appealing as possible. After all, the whole point of renovation is to enhance the beauty of your property. If a DIY job ruins a kitchen renovation or an exterior improvement, you could lose more money when your home’s resale value dives.

It’s an Investment

You may only need a small renovation, and you may think that your DIY approach would save you thousands of dollars. Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a renovation company in Northern California, agrees that problems with improper installation, wrong materials, or lack of preparation could force you to spend more to repair future issues. 

Before you decide to be your own contractor for a small remodeling project, think about the following:

  • Your safety in doing DIY work on your home
  • Your patience in completing a project
  • Your schedule in making sure you finish the remodel in time

A kitchen remodel can enhance the beauty and the value of your home. But you need to do it right to ensure favorable results. Contact Tureks Plumbing Services for the best kitchen remodeling services in Appleton, WI. We can also help with bathroom remodeling and plumbing repairs. Give us a call today to learn more! 

Editor’s note: This post was originally published in July 2018 and has been completely revamped and updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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2021 Kitchen Trends

Wednesday, January 13th, 2021
2021 Kitchen Trends

2021 Kitchen Trends

More and more Fox Valley homeowners are starting home projects because they’re spending more time at home. Who could blame them? We’re here for all the kitchen and bathroom remodel projects! That being said, renovations can be time-consuming and costly without the right help. Below, we’ve shared a simple guide to 2021 kitchen trends.

With trendy new kitchen brands popping up left and right, there are plenty of creative design concepts and clever twists to improve your home. We hope this guide inspires you or helps you during your home remodel. You can always count on Tureks Plumbing for home remodeling services in Appleton, WI

Marble Counters

We currently love marble. Whether you want a minimalist or modern look, this next-level style will elevate the space and increase your home’s value. 

Wood Finishes

Another common trend we’re seeing is wood finishes. Exposed wood beams, wooden cabinets, oversized islands, and accents warm up the room, bringing earthy tones to the space. 

Moody & Dramatic

Now more than ever, moody and dramatic kitchens are in demand. Many Fox Valley homeowners are incorporating dark accent walls, dark cabinets, or dark pieces. If you’re going for a modern-rustic feel, we recommend textured woods and black accent colors. 

Color

Those who aren’t into the moody and dramatic kitchen elements are for the colorful and warming kitchen trends. A little color goes a long way. Here are our favorite ways to add a pop of color into the kitchen: paint colored kitchen islands, window treatments, and appliances. If you don’t plan on selling your house, then go wild! However, if you’re not in your forever home, consider adding items that are non-permanent, like art or chair cushions.

Not One, But Two Islands

Moving towards larger kitchens and open-concept rooms, the kitchen island has become the focus of many kitchens. If you’re interested in a modern and luxurious kitchen, double islands are an excellent addition. Not to mention the additional storage. 

Smart Home Design

As we advance in technology, we learn more ways to live efficiently. If you plan on remodeling your kitchen, you might as well add smart home technology to it. Today, there are plenty of smart appliances that will make your life so much easier. Our friends at Specialized Audio and Video, a smart home automation company in NorCal, agree that homeowners everywhere need this technology. It adds a modern look and feel, not to mention resale value is tremendous. Some features you may like include smart ovens, smart fridges, smart dishwashers. You can save time, money, and energy when you have a smart home design. 

Gold Finishes

Did you know that the sinks and appliances are available in a wide variety of colors and finishes? Yep! Anything your heart can imagine. Of course, nongeneric appliances and sinks will cost more than traditional ones. However, if you’re going for a unique and custom kitchen, adding gold finishes will truly enhance the space. 

Unique Lighting Fixtures

If you’re looking for an affordable way to improve your kitchen, start with light fixtures. You’d be surprised to see how different the kitchen looks when you change out the light fixtures. Make sure to choose a fixture that fits the theme of your kitchen as well as the space.

Contact Tureks Plumbing 

When you need bathroom or kitchen remodeling services in Appleton, WI, contact Tureks Plumbing. We provide excellent remodeling services and have many years of experience in home renovations. Call us today for a free estimate.  

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Protecting Utility Pipes during Kitchen Remodel

Wednesday, July 15th, 2020

Are you thinking of a kitchen remodel? 

Protecting utility pipes during your kitchen remodel - Turek's Plumbing

Every now and then homeowners desire to remodel their kitchens. The remodeling can be anything from repainting and adding a few items to changing the entire design of the kitchen. A kitchen remodeling project can cause a lot of changes. It also has the potential of interfering with your utility lines. 

Whether you go for a small or large remodeling project, it helps to know how to protect your utility lines. This ensures that there are no disruptions in gas, water, or electricity. Here are some of the ways to protect these utility pipes during a remodel. 

Gas Lines 

Most gas lines either carry natural gas (methane) for heating or propane for cooking. A common remodeling project that might involve your gas lines is installing new gas appliances or moving the ones you have to a different location. This could warrant a shift or extension of the gas lines. 

Our friends at Headwaters Construction Inc., a commercial construction company, says to make sure to note where the existing gas lines are located and plan around them. Contact a professional if your remodeling project will involve moving them to avoid leaking gas into your house. 

Electricity 

Most, if not all, appliances in your kitchen use electricity. Every now and then, homeowners buy new appliances that require bigger or smaller spaces. Your project might introduce appliances that may not adhere to the standard outlets installed or those that require more power that is not provided by the outlets. Additionally, it may also affect lighting. 

Plan adequately on how to go around these issues to prevent accidents or damage to your appliances or entire wiring system. This involves planning for general illumination in your kitchen to provide direct light to task areas such as sinks and food preparation areas. 

If your plan involves rewiring the kitchen, make sure to remove the old wiring systems first. You can also involve an electrician or the local planning department in Appleton, Wisconsin. 

Plumbing 

Your plumbing system can be affected by your Appleton kitchen remodel. Any alterations that might affect the flow of water can lead to blockages and leaks. These will have an adverse effect on your kitchen and the entire house. 

Make sure that your sink has a free and unobstructed supply of both hot and cold water lines. If you plan on having a dishwasher or moving the one you have, make sure that the plumbing is done right to provide the machine with enough water. 

Additionally, make provisions for waste pipes. These are especially tricky to adjust because their functionality is usually set on a gradient. Therefore, make sure to involve a professional plumber

Remodeling your Kitchen the Right Way 

Kitchen remodels can be a fun and exciting way to bring some life into your home. There are also necessary as people move in and out of your home or when you buy new and modern appliances. 

It is always important to ensure that all utility lines are well taken care of. You can easily do this by involving a kitchen remodel company in Appleton WI. Tureks plumbing offers a fast and guaranteed service delivery for all homeowners. Contact Turek’s Plumbing today and get the best remodeling services.

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Best Time of Year for Home Improvement Projects

Wednesday, May 13th, 2020

The Best Time of Year for Home Improvement Projects

You are not alone if you have an extensive list of home improvement projects that you are eager to get underway. As you may already know, it isn’t advisable to get all those projects started at the same time. You can plan the work in accordance with the most appropriate time for each project.

Seasonality and the weather are factors that Turek’s Plumbing Services, the best plumbing company in Appleton, Wisconsin, recommends as a way to prioritize different home remodeling projects as detailed below.

Kitchen Remodels

The kitchen is justifiably called the heart of any home, so planning to remodel this space is perfectly understandable. Not only will you increase the value of your home, but you will also make the kitchen customized to your style.

In terms of timing, kitchen remodels are best started in summer, according to Appleton kitchen remodel experts. You can plan your vacation so that you are away while the bulk of the work is done. The indoor nature of the work saves the contractor’s team from the hot weather outdoors. 

Sacramento, CA construction company, Headwaters Construction suggests saving costs by scheduling the kitchen remodel towards the end of summer when contractors’ schedules aren’t so tight.

Bathroom Renovation

Bathroom renovation can also boost the value of your home, so it is a good investment to undertake. Appleton, WI bathroom remodel professionals recommend that bathroom renovations be done during summer or early fall. Scheduling the project out of season may result in some cost savings. A typical bathroom remodel costs approximately $8,820.

Home Additions/Upgrades

If you are planning to go big on home improvement, then a home addition maybe for you. A lot of care is needed for projects costing $38,500 or more. In terms of timing, winter is a no-no for a home addition, particularly if foundation work is involved. The experienced plumbers and technicians in Appleton, WI recommend that you undertake this project in late spring or early fall. This carries the risk that work may still be ongoing during holiday festivities, so proper planning is needed to avoid such an eventuality. Our friends at LMS Garage Doors, who repair and replace garage doors, say that replacing your garage door can significantly increase the value of your home.

Deck Installation

Many homeowners are exploring the possibility of deck installation or deck expansion in order to have more access to the outdoors. A lot of people believe this project should be undertaken in summer, but such timing means that one will not enjoy the deck during this season. A better time to install a deck is towards the end of fall or early in spring. This way, the deck will be beckoning when summer sets in! The bonus of this timing is that you could also get some good deals since you will have the work done during the off-season.

HVAC Repairs

This may not be what comes to mind when you think about home improvement projects. However, this activity is a necessary to keep your home comfy throughout the year. If possible, have your home heater maintained just before summer. Also, you should repair the AC during winter when it isn’t needed. This off-season timing will help you cut costs, and technicians will be readily available. Don’t delay to call a professional should your HVAC system develop a defect during temperature extremes.

In-Ground Pool Installation

In-ground pools can cost approximately $44,575. It is important that your timing is perfect if you want to keep this cost low. Most people have their pools installed in summer, and that sets them up to incur premium labor costs since demand is high at that time. Turek’s Plumbing Services recommends that you go against the norm and have your in-ground pool installed in autumn. This will be a slower process but worth it in cost savings.

Tuckpointing and Masonry Work

As the weather changes during the year, brickwork and masonry can develop cracks. Foundation problems and water leaks may result, so you don’t want to put off this project when these defects develop. 

If you have the luxury to select the timing of the repair, spring is the best time for tuckpointing and masonry work. During fall, contractors are preoccupied with fixing chimneys, so it is harder to get hold of the best pros. Additionally, spring offers suitable weather conditions for mortar and concrete to set.

Timing is of the essence if you are planning a home improvement project. The wrong timing can make the work harder to execute, or it could even make the project more costly. It is therefore best to plan ahead, wherever possible, and select the most suitable time for each project on your list. At Turek’s Plumbing Services, we have amassed experience in undertaking kitchen remodels, bathroom remodels and plumbing works, among other types of home remodels. Contact Appleton, WI plumbing service and we will be happy to make your dream come true![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertops

Wednesday, April 1st, 2020

Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertops - Kitchen remodel Appleton WIKitchen Remodeling: Choosing the Best Kitchen Countertops

One way to transform your kitchen in a big way is by replacing your kitchen countertops. Stop to think about how much wear and tear your countertops go through. No wonder there are so many stains and scratches. So, now that you know your countertops need some love, you’re probably wondering what the next steps are to replacing them. Let’s start off with fun stuff: choosing the best kitchen countertops. Yes, choosing the best kitchen countertops can be a daunting task because there are so many options to choose from! Don’t worry, home remodel experts at Tureks Plumbing are here to help!

Quartz Countertops

Quartz closely resembles stone but isn’t as demanding to maintain as natural stone is. This type of material is a combination of different minerals, resins, and colors. For this reason, you can find quartz countertops in different colors or patterns that closely mimic marble or granite. Home remodel contractors in Appleton, WI add that marble resists abrasive pads, stains, serrated knives, and hot pans very well. Quartz countertops make an excellent choice for your kitchen since the countertop will last longterm. 

However, the corners and the edges of this type of countertop are prone to chipping, and you will need expert help to fix such damage. Tureks Plumbing Services, the best kitchen remodel company in Appleton WI, recommends that you select a countertop that comes with rounded edges to reduce the likelihood that the edges will chip.

Granite Countertops

The beauty of granite countertops is that each slab will be unique from all others, so you can be sure that any granite countertop that you buy and install will be one of a kind. Expect to pay more for those countertops whose vein patterns or colors are even rarer. 

Granite has made a name for itself as a material that does a good job of resisting scratches, cuts, and heat. According to home remodel experts in Appleton, WI, granite countertops with a matte or polished finish perform even better in terms of resisting stains.

Nevertheless, you will need to regularly reseal the granite countertop if it is to retain its stain-resistant attributes. Tureks Plumbing Services also cautions that granite countertops are prone to chipping on the edges, so you are better off selecting one that has round edges to reduce this risk. If the countertop chips, ask a professional to fix the damage.

Limestone, Marble and Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone is rarer than granite, so that alone makes this an attractive material if you would like your kitchen to be really unique. Kitchen remodel companies in Appleton, WI, explain that soapstone is also excellent at resisting being damaged by heat. If the countertop is scratched, the damage can be fixed by sanding the affected part and then applying mineral oil there.

Marble and limestone are classic materials that have stood the test of time as countertops, so you won’t go wrong if you opt for them. Additionally, limestone looks like natural stone, although these countertops don’t have the veining or grain patterns of other forms of natural stone, such as granite. Marble and limestone also resist heat damage. Headwaters Construction Inc, a commercial construction company, adds that marble countertops are by far the most popular choice. 

As for the drawbacks, soapstone can be scratched, become nicked, or cut easily. Additionally, some stains are hard to wash off the surface of the countertop. This shortcoming is also present in marble and limestone. Marble is also particularly prone to heat damage, according to the kitchen remodel experts at Tureks Plumbing Services.

Laminate Countertops

Laminate countertops have come a long way over the years, and they are more attractive than they were in the past. Many kitchen remodel contractors say that laminate countertops are one of the most affordable options, and they are easy to install, so you may think of them if your budget is tight.

Laminate countertops can also resist stains and heat damage. However, laminate can suffer permanent damage if cut directly, so the kitchen renovation professionals at Tureks Plumbing Services recommend that you use a cutting board to prevent such damage.

Solid Surfacing

Solid surfacing is available in a huge array of patterns and colors. This material can be put to use on the backsplash, sink, and counters. It creates a seamless look since the joints between different segments are almost invisible. 

Solid surfacing is also resistant to the majority of stains, while small nicks and scratches are easy to repair. Make sure you use a cutting board to protect your countertops.

Recycled Glass Countertops

When you want a countertop that is fun and looks contemporary, then go for a recycled glass countertop that has large shards. If you prefer a more muted look, then opt for a countertop that is made from ground glass. Most recycled glass countertops have the ability to resist heat, scratches, stains, and cuts. 

However, the experts at Tureks Plumbing Services have observed that the quality of these countertops tends to vary from one manufacturer to another, so you need to do your due diligence before selecting a product.

Bucher Block

This material can make your kitchen look warm and cozy, and it is also easy to install or repair. Kitchen remodel professionals point out that different finishes come with their own pros and cons.

For example, penetrating oil finishes reduce the stain resistance of the material while varnish increases stain resistance. You should carefully weigh the available options and select what will address your specific needs.

As you can see, there is generally there’s not too much of a difference between countertops. If you are considering a kitchen remodel, contact Tureks Plumbing Services. Our home remodel contractors are waiting to help you through the process.

Interested in our home remodeling projects? See what projects we’ve been working on.

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