|
|
How much should my Kitchen Renovation or my Bathroom Renovation cost?
The “right” project cost is one that matches your budget for the project. And, by comparative shopping, you can determine which firm and which products can bring top value for your investment.
In Kitchen remodeling, there is no accurate cabinet pricing formula based on cost per square foot, or cost per lineal foot. There are too many variables – design and accessory options, cabinet lines that vary widely in price, etc. And, there are other cost factors to consider: contracting, appliances, lighting, flooring, etc. At USK&B, we will breakdown for you all of the individual cost components and recommend the best way to build your project to your budget.
On the other hand, the cost of a Bathroom remodeling is somewhat predictable, based on the size of the room, number of fixtures, and using “representative” products. Visit our showrooms to see our Bathroom Templates and the associated costs to begin your remodeling research – you may be surprised at how quickly we can accurately forecast your Bathroom remodeling costs!
|
|
|
How long will it take to renovate my Kitchen or Bathroom?
The “average” Kitchen remodel takes 3 to 4 weeks from service disconnects (no water, no cooking) to restoration of service. It is likely that an additional 1 to 2 weeks will be required for “the finish,” although the kitchen will be back in service during this time. The remodel of an “average” Full Bathroom takes 5 to 6 weeks for project completion.
NOTE: These timelines allow for municipal inspections, which are almost always necessary. Certainly, smaller and simpler projects take less time (and larger and more complex ones may require more). But, for quality and careful remodeling of Kitchens & Bathrooms these are sound guidelines.
|
|
|
For the same Kitchen design, my cabinet cost varies widely depending upon whether I choose a Good, Better or Best cabinet line. Why should I spend more (or less) for cabinetry?
At USK&B, we always attempt to position you with the most affordable product line that meets the criteria you set. There are principally 3 factors to consider: Is the product built with materials that meet your approval? Is the product line flexible enough to accomplish your design objectives? And, importantly: Does the line have a door style, wood species and finish that you desire? As you can see, the line that you choose is not only a budget decision; it is one part of the overall designing and budgeting process. |
 |
Granite vs. Quartz . . . which is the right countertop for me?
It’s difficult to dismiss the practical advantages of Quartz relative to Granite. Quartz countertops do not need to be chemically sealed to protect against stain absorption; Quartz is not “stain proof,” but it is remarkably stain resistant. Quartz is also uniformly very hard, and therefore extremely difficult to scratch. And, the seams of a Quartz top are more easily made “tight” and unobtrusive. (By the way, did you know that Quartz is 93% Granite? So, Quartz “is” Granite!)
Granite must be chemically sealed regularly to protect against stains. Depending upon the stone selection, sealing may have to be done every 12 months, and sealing is not a preventative to stains – it only increases stain resistance. Granites vary in hardness; the stone you select may be relatively soft, and subject to wear that shows. And because Granite slabs can be of a varying density, the seaming of this material can be less than uniform.
|
|
|
Can I cut upon Granite or Quartz countertops? Can I place hot pots upon Granite or Quartz countertops?
It is not recommended that either of these countertops be used as a cutting surface. Particularly, some Granite materials can be somewhat easily scratched when cut upon. Hot pots should never be placed on either Granite or Quartz surfaces. Expansion and contraction due to great temperature change can crack the material. Typically, imperceptible fissures in the stone are points of weakness and can open (crack) when subjected to thermal changes.
|
|
|
Hmmm . . . should I Do-It-Myself or contract with
U S Kitchens & Baths to install my Kitchen?
First, USK&B will happily design and provide your kitchen cabinetry whether you undertake the remodeling responsibilities yourself, bring in an independent contractor, or ask us to do the work!
Regarding Do-It-Yourself possibilities: Parts of the remodeling process may be successfully undertaken by some homeowners, such as removal of the old equipment, old flooring, etc. You and friends and relatives may also successfully perform some of the mechanical obligations (general carpentry, plumbing, electrical, tile setting, etc.).
But one task that should never be left to an inexperienced hand is the cabinet installation. Cabinet setting is both a skill and an art. Cabinetry must align “perfectly” in 3 planes (level front-to-back, level left-to-right, and plumb); without knowing the “tricks of the trade” this may be impossible. Rooms with out of square corners, walls that aren’t plumb, out of level floors, out of level ceilings . . . if you don’t know your way around this game, your installation has a good chance of having that Alice’s Looking Glass appearance! Bottom line: Have USK&B perform your cabinet installation.
|
|
|
|
|
|
