Tools & Resources  Kitchen FAQs  :  Products

Products

If you can't find the information you need here, try posting your question on our Message Boards.

What is the difference among stock, semi-custom and custom cabinets?

These are the three basic types of cabinet construction. Stock cabinets are constructed prior to purchase, come in standard sizes and are typically the most affordable. Expect limited wood species, door styles, accessories and finishes. They are usually available within one week of being ordered.

A step up from stock, semi-custom cabinets have more sizing options and a wider range of door, finish, and wood selections. They also cost more. Expect to wait at least one month for delivery.

Custom cabinets are either made by a custom manufacturer or by a local woodworking shop. They come in any shape, size, material or finish your designer can dream up. Custom is typically the most expensive type of cabinetry and usually takes at least six to 10 weeks to deliver. [More]

There are so many different materials and brands of countertops—how do I decide which is best?

Your primary considerations should be your cooking and entertaining needs, looks and price—and only you can decide which factor is most important for your home and family. Click here to view our handy at-a-glance comparison chart.

What kind of care and maintenance do granite counters require?

Granite countertops usually are sealed with a non-toxic, food-safe penetrating sealer or impregnator before installation. Depending on the sealant used, it will need to be reapplied anywhere from every six months to every few years.

The Marble Institute of America recommends the following regular care:

  • Clean surfaces with mild, non-oil-based detergent or stone soap

  • Thoroughly rinse and dry the surface after washing

  • Blot all liquid spills immediately

  • Protect counters with coasters, trivets or placemats

  • Avoid cleaning with abrasive and/or acidic substances such as vinegar, lemon juice, dry or soft cleansers, scouring powders, grout cleaners or tub and tile cleaners

There are so many different materials and brands of flooring—how do I decide which is best?

Your primary considerations should be durability, price and looks—especially how the kitchen floor ties into the flooring of adjoining rooms. Click here to view our handy at-a-glance comparison chart.

What kind of ventilation do I need in the kitchen?

You have a choice of a range hood, an over-the-range microwave or downdraft ventilation. Which system you choose will depend on the power of your range, the layout of your kitchen, local building codes, and your own style preferences. You’ll pay more for systems with higher airflow and lower noise ratings. CFMs refer to the amount of cubic feet of air a vent system can move per minute, while sones measure noise level. The National Kitchen and Bath Association recommends a 150 CFM minimum for all surface cooking appliances. The Home Ventilating Institute recommends that kitchen vent fans should not be louder than 9 sones. [More]
 


 

previous page     ▲  top

 
 
 
 

Design
Trends
Space Planning
Storage
Home Styles
Kitchen Styles
Color
Universal Design

Tools & Resources
Ask the Editor
Kitchen FAQs
Questionnaires & Quizzes
Recommended Reading
Featured Showrooms

Design Tools

Products
New Product News
Trends
Appliances
Cabinets
Counters
Flooring
Hardware
Sinks & Faucets

Featured Kitchens
Color Trends
Function & Space
Style Trends
Products That Pop
Clever Islands

 

Planning
New vs. Remodel
Budget
Financing
Hiring Professionals
Design Phase
Construction Phase

Photo Gallery
Contemporary
Country
Old World
Rustic
Traditional
Transitional

Innovations
Green Design
Technology
Space Savers

The Kitchen Diaries
Family of Five

The Empty Nesters

 

 
Home Page - About Kitchens.com - Professional LocatorLocal Dealer Listing  - Quick Tips - National Advertising Inquiries


Kitchens.com ® Information and Inspiration for Your Ideal Kitchen.
 

© 2000 - 2008  by Kitchens.com. All rights reserved.  Terms of Use   Privacy Policy
 

 

Kitchen FAQs

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Design

Budget

Construction

Products