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What is a Cheaper Alternative to Granite Countertops?
What is a Cheaper Alternative to Granite Countertops?

When looking for alternatives to granite countertops, you may be a bit picky when trying to find an adequate replacement. The idea of picking something of a similar style during your kitchen remodel can be a difficult task. To address this concern, we’ve taken some of the leg work out of it for you. In the rest of this article, we will give you five cheaper options to granite your kitchen. 

#1: Laminate Counters

Laminate is a material you can use to mimic the appearance of granite without breaking the budget. As one of the most inexpensive options, the cost of laminate is typically around $50 per square foot

Using laminate also prevents you from having to cut out huge slabs of stone. As a result, you save time on the labor costs behind using other materials.

#2: Quartz Countertops

Quartz allows you to keep the appeal of natural stones in your home without the cost of granite. However, the quality behind quartz is not comparable to something you would call cheap. This material can cost up to $150 per square foot. 

The real savings of this surface come from the low maintenance needed for these counters—also, their durability appeal to homeowners looking for a long-term solution.

#3: Wood 

If you look for an overall natural look with no preference for getting stone surfaces, wood is your next stop. On the heat resistance scale, wood can be pretty lousy. You gain a warm appearance but lose out on the “purely stone” style options. The cheapest options go for around $40 per square foot.

Consider an epoxy seal if you don’t want to spend a lot of time on maintenance. The epoxy will give you a shiny appearance that can resemble most granite options. If you don’t want a polished appearance, keep a close eye open for any scratches. Wood also allows you to consider butcher-block counters, which are an appealing addition to modern homes.

#4: Soapstone 

Soapstone is a soft alternative to a granite surface, making it somewhat prone to imperfections on the surface. As you might expect, you trade out the softness for cost. This stone is also far more durable than wood and requires far less maintenance. 

The low end of soapstone goes for around $70 per square foot. It also doesn’t need to be sealed, saving you some money on that initial labor investment. If you are looking at granite for durability, soapstone is a great alternative. 

#5: Marble 

When you hear “marble,” you probably don’t think about the word “cheap.” However, it is surprisingly affordable when used for countertops, with the lower end going for around $70 per square foot. This price made it comparable to quartz and engineered stone.

When searching for marble, be aware of its high maintenance requirements. Most marble types require you to re-seal the surface every year. Marble is also easy to scratch compared to other options. 

Final Thoughts

The appeal of natural granite countertops is clear. With its modern appearance, stone provides you a wide range of colors and unique styles. They are also naturally heat resistant, providing you another way to avoid burning down your home. 

But granite is a premium-level material, making it somewhat difficult to perform. Thankfully, there are many materials you can choose from that are appealing and hit many of those requirements. If you want help finding alternatives to granite, let us help you out.

Custom Kitchen Cabinets Toronto
Custom Kitchen Cabinets Toronto

What can we say about 2020? I’m sure we can think of more than a few expletives, but it has allowed us to appreciate what we have. In some cases, we might be thinking of how we want to modify that inside. In this case, we are talking about what’s new for custom kitchen cabinets Toronto has available in 2020.

Through the rest of this article, we will go through the design changes that have come with this year. With many of these changes, we expect them to maintain popularity in 2021.

The Top 5 Custom Kitchen Cabinets Trends Of 2020

Marble (or Quartz) Kitchen Countertops

Marble provides you an elegant solution to your custom kitchen cabinets. However, the amount of upkeep behind marble requires much more dedication.

Marble has been a hallmark of luxury for centuries. These days, a hint of marble on the top of your countertops is the key to maintaining style. Provided that you aren’t rough with your marble surface, you won’t have to worry about its tendency to scratch or scuff.

If you want the style of marble without the cost, consider quartz. Quartz is considered to be nearly indestructible. It is even more formidable than granite countertops.

Two-Tone Counters

With some awareness of complementary colors, two-tone cabinets provide a combination of bright and neutral colors. For example, a dark blue and an eggshell white create a good deal of contrast when put next to each other.

This is also assuming that the two cabinets are made of similar materials. To maintain some relation, they would need to be made of the same woods. You can also use woods of similar textures.

Reclaimed Wood

While it won’t save you much money, the idea of using reclaimed wood allows you to contribute your part to the environment. This prevents old cabinets, desks, or other wooden items from being tossed into a landfill. Instead, supporting this type of wood allows you to feel good about your contributions.

Reclaimed wood also happens to be pretty trendy for this reason. As we continue to learn more, and understand what our level of waste does to the environment, expect more people to use reclaimed wood in their projects.

Butcher Block Countertops

While butcher blocks used to be limited to chefs’ homes, these countertops are quickly becoming of mainstream interest. What makes a butcher block unique? These countertops won’t dull your knives as you cut food along them. They are utility and style in a combined function.

You can also choose between finished and unfinished material, which creates different feels depending on your want. With the natural wood sense combined with utility, you can make some beautiful countertops.

Rich Colors

Most kitchens have a habit of sticking with natural, cool colors. Instead, it might be time to go for something a bit bolder.

With bold colors, your kitchen can stick out as unique. It is because of this that they are more appreciated in kitchens as a method to wake up. Kitchens like this are full of energy. Applying that to your own household’s energy will help your kitchen stand out.

Conclusion

As 2020 comes to a close, we look to 2021 to see the latest trends. When looking at custom kitchen cabinets, Toronto has many options to offer. Many of these will still apply in the following year, which reminds us of the importance of enjoying our homes.

If you are considering a kitchen remodel, any of these ideas can apply to your home. There is no reason why you shouldn’t want to admire the counters in your room.

painted-kitchen-cabinets
painted-kitchen-cabinets

When designing your exciting new kitchen remodel, keep this handy remodel worksheet handy. Why do you need this worksheet? Unbelievably, you will make hundreds of decisions for your new kitchen. Having a handy place to write down whether you wanted bright red painted kitchen cabinets or a subtle dark wood finish helps you keep focused. Make extra copies and keep them handy.

Getting Started on Your New Kitchen

Before you decide on a new kitchen island, painted kitchen cabinets, or a bold backsplash, take the time to jot down the answers to these important questions:

1. What do you like about your current kitchen?

2. What do you dislike the most about your kitchen right now?

3. How often do you cook or entertain?

4. Do you plan to change the overall layout? How?

5. Do you need to remove windows, walls, or doors?

6. Do you need your room to be multifunctional?

7. Do you need a workstation, study area, butler’s pantry, or pet feeding center?

8. Do you need space for laundry?

9. What type of kitchen seating do you need?

10. Do you need accessibility?

Cabinets

1. Do you plan on keeping any existing cabinets or will you replace all the cabinets?

2. What finishes will you choose?

3. What style of door will you need?

4. Will the cabinets be stock, custom, frameless, or other style?

5. What type of hardware do you need?

Backsplashes and Counters

1. Do you want an island?

2. What type of counter material will you choose?

3. What counter edge style will you choose?

4. Do you want a full wall or partial backsplash?

5. What type of material do you want for your backsplash?

Sinks and Faucets

1. How many sinks do you need?

2. Do you want single or double basin?

3. What type of faucet do you want?

Kitchen Appliances

1. What type of appliances will you need?

2. Do you want any Smart Appliances?

3. Do you need a trash compactor?

Flooring

1. Do you want to refinish, keep, or replace your floor?

2. What floor material do you want?

Display and Storage

1. Do you want a butler’s pantry?

2. Do you need more pantry space?

3. Do you need specialty storage options for wine, cookbooks, or appliances?

Additional Options

1. What color and wall treatment will you have for your kitchen remodel?

2. What windows and window treatment do you want?

3. What type of lighting do you need?

4. What other touches like artwork or furniture do you want to accent your new kitchen?

Call Bertone Woodworking Today for the Best Kitchen Remodel Design in Ontario

When you want to build the kitchen of your dreams, call the experts at Bertone Woodworking. We promise to build the most gorgeous kitchen you have ever envisioned. Contact us today. Our talented team of designers will be happy to help you.

cabinets-with-drawers

cabinets-with-drawersInvest in a new kitchen remodel this year. A new kitchen both increases your home value and improves the quality of your life. Believe it or not, little changes like a new kitchen island, sleek new cabinets with drawers, and a butler’s pantry add incredible functionality to your home. And if you want to consider resell value, many new homeowners choose a home-based solely on the kitchen space.

The Dream Kitchen

Many homeowners want a dream kitchen. They want a space that gives them ample room to cook, food prep, and entertain. Sometimes families need a home to change with them. For example, maybe you need new cabinets with drawers easy-to-open for aging adults or much more storage for your growing household.

What do you really want for your dream kitchen? Often choosing new materials, appliances, and cupboards make a massive difference. Here are just some of the most popular kitchen remodel improvements for this year:

  • Large kitchen island
  • Farmhouse sink
  • Custom lighting
  • New flooring
  • Open kitchen cabinets
  • Hidden storage
  • Accessibility
  • Workspace Nook
  • Breakfast bar
  • Open floor plans
  • Double dishwashers
  • Bright blue kitchen backsplashes
  • Energy-efficient appliances
  • Smart home technology

Talk with your designer about how you can invest the most in your kitchen remodel. You want a kitchen that increases your home value, adds storage and fits your lifestyle.

Working Space

Today many households use the kitchen for a variety of purposes besides cooking and dining. For example, some schoolchildren may need a study area. A parent who works from home might need space for a computer to work. Discuss with your designer how you can create a multipurpose kitchen complete with designated areas for work and study.

Custom Lighting

Another exciting new trend involves the use of Smart Home technology and custom lighting. Custom lighting creates a more open space and increases the number of usable areas for food prep, storage, and dining. Combine lighting with Smart Home technology for added convenience and use. For example, schedule lights to turn on right before you get home or when you vacation. Sensors can light up the kitchen at night for extra safety and security.

Find the right kitchen remodel for you with Bertone Woodworking. Our experienced team offers high-quality cabinetry, kitchen remodels, and design. Contact us today.

 

 

white-kitchen-cabinets

white-kitchen-cabinets­Are you getting ready for a new kitchen remodel? What type of cabinets will be perfect for your home? Whether you have white kitchen cabinets or opt for frameless cabinets in bold red, find the right design for you.

What is a frameless kitchen cabinet?

In decades past cabinets often had a similar design. We are all familiar with traditional white kitchen cabinets with Standard swinging doors. The cabinet doors were mounted to the frame. They were flush-mounted or flush with the frame. However, the frameless kitchen cabinet, also known as the European-style cabinet, has become very popular. Why?

The frameless case has superior strength. Producing these cabinets is a simpler process. The doors and Doors do not sit against the frame.  Instead, the doors and doors cover the entire opening. This is called a full overlay which has a sleek anesthetic.

Frameless cabinets have more interior space. With traditional frames cabinets, there is a waste of space because of the drawers. The drawers and pullouts for a frameless cabinet use every centimeter of space. This ingenious construction hides any inconsistencies in the design.

Frameless cabinets have many style options for any home décor. They have many affordable options for any budget. Save a little money on storage when you install frameless cabinets.

Face frame cabinets

For homeowners who want the traditional classic look, face frame cabinets give your kitchen a timeless quality. If you want a more contemporary look add glass doors to display prize China or knickknacks from your travels.  Ask your designer about how you can maximize storage space when you install face frame cabinets. No matter your budget are experts at Bertone Woodworking will help you discover the gorgeous cabinets you deserve.

Partial overlay

You might want to try a partial overlay. With a partial overlay the cabinet doors and wars attached to the front of a face frame cabinets. Some of the original frame shows.

Contact the woodworking experts at Bertone Woodworking today. Our friendly staff will be happy to answer any of your important questions. Schedule your consultation now.

kitchen remodelsReady to do the ultimate kitchen renovation? This year homeowners have longed for a return to the past, but with a 21st-century flair. What are the dream kitchen remodels for 2020? Discover the perfect luxury kitchen for you!

The Butler’s Pantry

One of the biggest additions to luxury kitchens this year is the butler’s pantry. Many home have to make the most of their space. With more family members studying, schooling, and working remotely, a butler’s pantry adds much-needed storage and space. And it’s so flexible! Use the area for food prep and pantry storage. Add a small desk for a quiet study area. The options are limitless!

The Open Kitchen Oasis

An open floor plan offers your family a wide variety of exciting options. Both practical and attractive, the space becomes a haven for work, play, and family memories. Do you need an accessible kitchen? Do you need to accommodate changes in your lifestyle? Renovate your kitchen to accommodate your unique tastes and needs.

  • Wide accessible space for easy movement
  • Lower counters and kitchen island
  • No knob easy to open drawers
  • Custom lighting
  • Cabinets with glass doors
  • Floating corner shelving
  • Optional laundry closet
  • Kitchen island with overhang seating
  • Stainless steel smart appliances
  • Floor track lighting
  • Easy-to-clean flooring
  • Simple white subway tile backsplash
  • Benched seating
  • Accents in white
  • Natural lighting
  • Accent with lush green plants
  • Open shelving
  • Cool colors in light seagreen or blue
  • Well-planned storage options

The luxury kitchen with an open floor plan offers you a beautiful aesthetically pleasing oasis in your otherwise busy life.

The Family Space

With many of us working and schooling from home, the kitchen has become the catch-all space for eating, entertainment, and business. The kitchen is naturally the place where family gathers. Whether you have a multigenerational home with adults and kids sharing space, or you have to accommodate multiple work schedules and schooling in a smaller urban dwelling, you need a functional multipurpose kitchen.

What are some of the key elements for the 2020 kitchen?

  • Hidden storage in luxury cabinets
  • Smart appliances that keep a family healthy, and save money and time
  • A designated work nook for business or schooling
  • Additional storage above the oven, bench drawers, and in custom cabinets
  • Walk-in pantry complete with desk and computer capabilities
  • Bench seats for more flexible seating arrangements
  • Schoolhouse lights
  • Built-in speakers
  • Space for wall calendar or displaying schoolwork
  • Smart speaker
  • Custom lighting
  • Blank wall for Zoom meeting backdrop

By making use of every nook and cranny in the kitchen, you can make the most of your space. Accommodate everything from entertainment and eating to studying and hosting Zoom meetings.

Call the kitchen experts at Bertone Woodworking today. We offer the latest in innovative kitchen design and custom cabinetry. No matter your budget, our seasoned team promises to deliver. Get the gorgeous luxury kitchen you deserve! Call us today.