Consider this when renovating your kitchen

Credit: Cabinets Plus courtesy

In todays world the kitchen is often the hub of the home. Its no longer just a place for the chef to cook in solitary but also a center for casual dining and gathering informally with family and friends, often around a big center island.

The possibilities are endless when upgrading a kitchen and even a few simple budget-friendly changes can refresh and modernize your design and add value to your home.

You can actually do a lot with a minimal budget. A typical minor kitchen remodel can include updating cabinet fronts and drawers, replacing the stove, countertops and flooring, installing a new sink and faucet and painting.

But one of the keys to a successful remodel is to set priorities: Do you want a full-blown or surface-level renovation? Either is fine, but make sure you know the pros and cons of each. And know your budget.

Cabinets are key

When it comes to renovating kitchens, the experts agree: A good set of cabinets is the key.

You wouldnt want to waste your money and put a stone top on a cabinet that was basically garbage, said Gary Trapanotto, owner of Designer Kitchens East in Mattituck. As long as youre starting with a decent foundation in place, the cheapest option is to replace the countertops and appliances.

All-wood construction cabinets are the sign of good quality; some cabinets are made from flake board or fiber board, which are made of scrap wood thats glued together with resin to make a new board, Mr. Trapanotto said.

Its not as good as a plywood cabinet, but it also doesnt have the price tag, he said. Plywood cabinets are often 10 to 15 percent more expensive, but its a worthwhile investment.

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Consider this when renovating your kitchen