How To – Fitted Doors

November 9, 2017October 12, 2017

Corian Solid Surface vs Quartz Kitchen Worktops – Which is Best?

Understanding the Key Differences Between Two Man-made Materials

Due to advances in manufacturing processes, laminate and solid surface kitchen worktops are making a comeback. Although the more expensive granites and stone work-surfaces are still very popular, for those on a tight budget, solid surface now offers a practical and affordable worktop solution that neatly ticks all the right boxes.

Quartz is seen as a great alternative to granite whilst solid surface is seen as a high quality upgrade on traditional laminates. Both are man-made but both have their strengths and weaknesses.

So let’s take a look at the key benefits and pitfalls of these two kitchen worktop options and let you decide which is right for you.

What is quartz?

Comprising of approximately 95% ground natural quartz, bonded by a compound of polymer-based resins under intense pressure and heat, this processed material is incredibly strong, hardwearing and heavy. It’s non-porous so is waterproof and if cared for, should not stain and last for many years.

What is solid surface?

First introduced as far back as 1967 by Dupont under the brand name Corian, solid surfaces worktops are comprised of mineral marble dusts, bonded by acrylic resins and and a variety of coloured pigments. Like quartz, solid surface is non-porous but doesn’t resist heat well at all. On the plus side, an almost seamless finish is achievable and looks stunning in kitchens that require clean lines and a near-perfect look.

Quartz – Pros & Cons

Heat Resistance – contrary to what many may tell you, quartz is not supposed to have hot items placed on the surface at all. It can scorch and if the resins are damaged by heat, there’s rarely every any going back. On white quartz, any damage will be very noticeable.
Water Resistance – quartz requires no sealing whatsoever as it is completely non-porous. So the great news is, you can get it wet and it will not damage. When cleaning however, only use light cleaning products that do not contain too many harsh chemical to prevent any potential damage.
Durability – quartz is very hard and fairly difficult to scratch so cutting although not always recommended, shouldn’t cause any damage. It should withstand many years of use and abuse but avoid placing hot items on the surface to prevent scorching of the resins and discolouration.
Discolouration – most quartz surfaces should last many years but some are prone to discolouration from excessive UV exposure. This is usually more noticeable on darker coloured quartz so if this is a concern, choose a lighter coloured material.
Weight – quartz is very heavy and just a regular size piece will require at least two men to carry and install. So if you plan to install it as a DIY project, it’s not for you. Cutting and finishing the product is not straightforward and should only be carried out by a professional.
Joins – larger worktops will almost certainly need to be made of multiple pieces of quartz. The material is simply too bulky and too heavy to make out of a single slab. If joins are required, the seams will be filled with a coloured sealant that matches the surface as closely as possible, In most cases, this looks perfectly fine but they will be visible.
Cost – quartz falls into the mid-range price bracket for kitchen worktops and is around about the same price as solid surface. So either choice will mean spending the same amount of pennies.

Solid Surface – Pros & Cons

Heat Resistance – solid surface is generally regarded as being poor at resisting heat and any damage will render your warranty void. So in short, keep hot pots and pans away from it at all times.
Water Resistance – just like quartz, this man-made material performs well when wet as it is completely non-porous. So if this is a key decision making point, either of these two surfaces deal with water perfectly fine.
Durability – solid surface will mark far easier than quartz if cutting or using sharp objects. The good news is they can be buffed or sanded smooth again if marked but for practical reasons, this is not something you would want to do with regularity.
Discolouration – like any man-made material, extreme UV exposure will discolour the surface over several years and be far more noticeable on darker shades. There’s only a handful of surfaces that won’t discolour with time such as natural stones and metals so if this is critical, neither quartz or solid surface should be your choice.
Weight – solid surface is much lighter than quartz and easier to install. However, as a DIY project it is not practical as the material is specifically designed to hide any seams and be fitted as a single custom moulded piece or tightly bonded pieces, making it highly attractive to anyone wanting the perfect finish.
Joins – joins are practically invisible with solid surface as the seams are created with a bonding adhesive. As they are so tight, they are almost impossible to see. As the slabs can be fairly large, most kitchens have very few seams.
Cost – solid surface is around the same price point as quartz so from a budgetary point of view, the decision is a split one. Other practical factors will be the key decision points.

So as you can tell, quartz and solid surface have many similar properties in terms of finish, water resistance and price. Most of the difference fall under the strength, durability and end finish of the products. There’s very little to choose between the two so the final decision will undoubtedly come down to either the finished look or the practicality of the surface. But both will undoubtedly look beautiful in any kitchen.

October 18, 2017October 24, 2017

Is it time you gave your kitchen a facelift?

Sure Signs You Need to Transform Your Kitchen

Sometimes the obvious is staring us right in the face yet because it’s been there for so long, we become blind to it. The kitchen is the single most used and abused room in the home. We cook, we clean, we even eat and sometimes hang out there when friends and family come over. Over time, this constant use takes it’s toll and our once prized kitchen starts to look shabby, scruffy and certainly not chic.

At first glance, you may not think its time to give your kitchen a well deserved makeover but if any of the following applies to your kitchen, then perhaps it might be about time you did. Here’s the five critical signs its time to make the changes.

Laminate Worktops Chip & Peel Easily Making them an Eyesore. Image credit: Plastic Surgeon

Chipping Worktops

It’s very common, especially in older kitchens to have a composite laminate worktop. Being the most economical option, they have been a popular choice for years among homeowners but it’s common knowledge these surfaces do not last the test of time. Exposed edges, corners and joins will eventually start to chip and peel where items have rubbed past them or moisture has set in.

There’s nothing worse than seeing a large patch of laminate missing from a worktop just staring you in the face. It screams of a kitchen that is crying out to be rescued and upgraded.

Peeling Doors

Much like deteriorating worktops, cheaper composite doors also suffer from peeling and chipping. As they are essentially constructed in the exact same way, they suffer from the same problems however, seeing doors are constantly opened and closed, they take a great deal more abuse as they are banged shut at regular intervals.

Older kitchens did not have enhancements like soft closing mechanisms so a door being slammed shut is going to suffer from damage rapidly. Add to this dirt and grease from hands, moisture from cooking and kettles and its only a matter of time until your doors start to peel, chip or crack and they then start to look horrible. Time to change them no doubt!

Discolouration

Time is a great healer they say – not when it comes to kitchens!

Over the course of many years, UV rays, dirt, grime, grease, moisture and cleaning chemicals will take their toll on all of your kitchen surfaces including doors, handles, worktops and finishings. No matter how hard you try to clean, your kitchen never looks like it used to. That’s because the surfaces have discoloured over time and there’s frankly very little you can do about it.

Whites that were once bright are now a shade of pale yellow, sealants that used to look clean and pristine have started to peel away and crack. Door handles that once gleamed just seem to have lost their sheen. And your appliances are outdated and and harking back to a bygone era.

Only a complete kitchen transformation will do.

Attempts to Fix Damaged Holes Will Only Work Temporarily. Image credit: Popular Mechanics

Loose Hardware

Over the course of time, constant use of doors handles will cause them to loosen and if left neglected, this will start to damage the backs of the doors, making them hard to tighten. The longer you leave it, the more damage will occur to the backs of the doors.

If the doors are made from MDF or chipboard, they will deteriorate as the wriggling of the bolts will start to cut into the drill holes. Factor in moisture and time into the equation and eventually, the doors will be damaged beyond repair. Any attempts to tighten the doors screws will be a futile process as they will eventually loosen again very soon and you’ll be back to square one. The only solution is to replace the doors and most likely, the handles too.

Entertaining Friends is Awkward

If you like to entertain often, you’ll know that the kitchen seems to possess magnetic powers when it comes to gatherings. No matter how hard you try to get everyone into a comfortable lounge or around the dining table, eventually there will be a group that will end up congregating in the kitchen for a chat or gossip. It’s inevitable.

The kitchen naturally creates a less formal environment where people can stand and chit chat in a more relaxing space and the kitchen is ideal for this. If your kitchen looks old, tired and is generally an unpleasant place to be, this could be a real party pooper.

No one wants their friends and loved ones to see a dirty, grimy old kitchen. If this sounds like yours, even a thorough clean up might not be enough to rescue the situation and a kitchen facelift might be in order.

So why wait any longer when the obvious is staring you right in the face? It’s time to speak to a kitchen installation expert about giving your home the transformation it deserves.

October 4, 2017March 13, 2020

How to Choose the Right Kitchen Worktop

Finding the Most Suitable Work Surface for Your Needs & Budget

When it comes to kitchen worktops, there’s more choice out there in the marketplace than ever before. With new materials being introduced, it’s hard to know which is right for you, so it can feel like a minefield.

As well as the basic decision making criteria such as budget and style, there’s also a number of practical concerns to take into consideration. Different surfaces offer varying benefits and pitfalls so you may be someone who is looking for a unique look, or you may be a keen cook who needs something robust and hardwearing. Perhaps you are cleanliness conscious and need a surface that is hygienic or you might just be someone who wants a great allrounder that ticks all the boxes.

Let’s take a look at the various kitchen surface options out there today and discuss their plusses and minuses in the decision making process.

Laminate

To some, laminate is a no go as it has a stigma of being cheap and cheerful but in recent years, this ever popular work surface has come a long way. With much improved manufacturing techniques, a good quality laminate can mimic a much higher price tagged surface for a fraction of the cost.

Of course, it will never look as good as a real granite or wood surface but for those looking for an updated finish that doesn’t empty the coffers, it’s a great option.

Pros: as costs go, it’s right at the bottom end so it’s the most affordable option on the market. There’s a huge range of finishes available so the likelihood is, you’ll find one that you like that fits your style and needs.

Cons: durability is a persistent issue with chipping and split edging still a common problem and it is easily scratched or scorched by hot pots and pans. Joins also tend to be visible so require edging to compensate.

Solid Surface

Considered a much better upgrade to laminate, solid surface is a far more robust work surface that offers a much better finish and looks amazing. Composed of minerals and resins, this man-made material comes in a huge range of colours and finishes and will give any kitchen a dramatic makeover. Most solid surfaces boast a modern satin sheen to them, making them very much en vogue and with seams being virtually invisible, it gives a high end finish.

Pros: very easy to clean, is hygienic and hard wearing. Can be formed into practically any shape including sinks and upstands, making it a popular options for the most demanding of kitchen designs.

Cons: darker shades tend to show up scratches so lighter colours tend to be a more popular choice. Not great with heat and will damage easily if hot pans come into contact with it.

Solid Wood

Wooden worktops are timeless and exude a warm organic beauty that no other work surface can replicate. Ideally suited to a farmhouse or shaker style kitchen, wooden worktops last for several years and even if marked, add character to the look (within reason). Even if slightly damaged, can be sanded and retreated to bring it back to life so is the ideal choice for a kitchen that is going to be used and abused.

Pros: naturally antibacterial, easy to install and maintain. Looks beautiful if oiled and cared for regularly.

Cons: if left untreated for too long, can be susceptible to water damage and staining so ideally, needs oiling at least once or twice a year. Easily scorched by heat.

Granite

The most popular stone worktop option as it guarantees a high end finish every time. With the vast array of shades, grains and patterns that mother nature has to offer, this natural material will make a kitchen look fabulous whether modern or traditional. Whether you like bold patterns or subtle grains and sparkles, there;’s usually a granite out there to suit and due to it’s organic qualities, will be completely unique to your kitchen.

Pros: a tough surface that is less likely to damage due to heat than most other surfaces (although will damage if repeatedly exposed to very hot objects). Will give an incredible finish to any kitchen.

Cons: can be pricey but worth the extra investment. Is porous so must be sealed on day one and every six months thereafter to prevent water damage. Is extremely heavy so your cabinets must be strong enough to support it.

Quartz

Made from a combination of crushed quartz and resins, this engineered stone is a very popular alternative to granite. With its consistent finish available in a wide range of colours, quartz is a very hard material that doesn’t damage easily unless abused. Guaranteed to give a high end finish, seams are virtually invisible and is suitable to all styles of kitchen whether traditional or contemporary.

Pros: up to five times harder than granite, is non-porous and very low maintenance. No sealing required like granite.

Cons: does not tolerate heat well and will cause irreparable damage if exposed to hot pans.

Copper Is Not For Everyone But Does Produce a Very Unique Look. Image credit: (http://www.bgdenvil.com/alternative-copper-kitchen-counter/) BGDenvil.com

Metal

Due to an upsurge in home cooking enthusiasts, stainless steel and copper worktops have seen a huge rise in popularity. With the industrial look being very much in the now, these rugged, sleek work-surfaces are just the ticket offering an easy to clean surface that is hard wearing and very modern., Although they can scratch, imperfections do not look half as bad as they would on a solid surface or laminate worktop.

Pros: can be formed and wrapped onto any shaped. Hard wearing, non-pourous and easy to clean.

Cons: shows up scratches and marks very easily. Can dent if heavily abused.

August 24, 2017October 24, 2017

What is a kitchen makeover?

Understanding the process from start to finish

If you watch any home improvement shows or DIY television programmes, chances are you’ve heard of the terms kitchen makeover, kitchen transformation or kitchen facelift at least a few times. What actually defines these terms can vary however, so it can be a little confusing.

In the UK, we regard a kitchen makeover as changing the doors, drawers, hardware, worktops and in some cases; taps, appliances and splash-backs to be the norm. Whilst in North America, their definition is essentially the same but as many of their kitchens are made from solid hardwood doors, they do tend to respray doors whilst over here in Britain, we prefer just to replace and modernise them instead. So in this article, we’re going to clear up exactly what a kitchen makeover is and how we do it.

Does your kitchen need a makeover?

Essentially, every homeowner reaches a point where their kitchen looks tired, outdated and shabby. The cost and hassle of completely replacing the entire kitchen is high. Not only is there the expense of having the tear out the existing units, make the interior walls good with potential re-plastering, painting and tiling; there’s also the time factor of not having a useable kitchen, not to mention the dirt, noise and dust that comes with any construction work. All going well, a brand new fitted kitchen can take at least 1-2 weeks to completely install from scratch and the cost of the kitchen units, worktop and installation can go into several thousand pounds. So it will cost you a lot of time, money and stress.

As the homeowner, you need to decide if your existing kitchen layout still works for you or not and essentially, if it’s just the aesthetic qualities that are letting it down. If this is the case, do you really need to tear it out and replace it? That is a decision only you can make so you need to weigh up the pros and cons of having a new kitchen installed versus a kitchen makeover, something we discuss in another blog post.

Assuming you’ve come to the sensible conclusion that a kitchen makeover is your best route, let’s take a look at the process and understand just how simple it is to getting a new look kitchen quickly and more cost effectively.

The Consultation

The first thing that will take place is to explain the full process of what a kitchen makeover entails. In most cases, customers are thrilled to learn that they do not even need to empty the cupboards as most of our work is done using the existing units. It is very discreet so we tend to cause far less disruption than you might imagine. Items such as doors are made-to-measure and swapped over, as are the drawer fronts. The countertops are overlaid onto the existing worktop instead of removing it entirely and replacing it, so it’s very clean and quick.

Once we’re satisfied you have a complete understanding of the process, our consultation will then move onto reviewing your existing kitchen and to see where it works and where it’s letting you down.

Our design consultants will check over the entire kitchen including the doors, the hardware and mechanisms, and review the state of the actual carcasses to see if they are in good order with no obvious signs of mould or water penetration, cracking or splitting of the edge banding and damage to the frame structures. Some older kitchen units may suffer from damage over time from the sheer weight of the counter so before any proposals are put forward, it is best to get a good understanding of how your existing kitchen units have been holding up over the years.

Assuming the units are all intact and in a good state of repair, a kitchen makeover is most certainly possible. Even if perhaps one or two units are in a poor condition, they could still be replaced individually, rather than having to take out the entire kitchen.

Our team will then take detailed measurements of the existing housings, door and drawer sizes, counter dimensions plus the plumbing and electrical positions with overall size details of the room itself.

We’ll firstly look at your existing kitchen a make suggestions for improvement.

The Choice

You may already have a style and colour of door in mind, but our design consultants will offer their opinions as to a good style and finish of doors that will bring your kitchen back to life and improve its overall aesthetic appeal in its current surroundings. They will also suggest a suitable countertop to match the doors, which in many cases might be a quartz overlay plus sinks, taps and hardware to complete the new look.

Every customer is welcome to come to our showroom and see the complete ranges on offer but we will put forward proposals that we feel are sympathetic to the existing space, especially if you do not plan to redecorate or repaint the kitchen walls. Any new doors need to complement and enhance their surroundings so choosing a colour and finish that suits is vital to making it look fresh, bright and modern.

Ultimately, the choice is entirely yours but we do find that with our experience and know how, our proposed choices always go down a storm and customers are thrilled with the choice of doors, worktops and handles we put forward.

Once we have all reached an agreed look, we’ll then offer you a quote to have your doors made, your countertop overlays cut and a date in the diary to get your makeover started.

We can also offer a cost to replace any extra items such as appliances, sinks, taps and backsplashes. Whatever you need, we can take care of everything.

We’ll then strip out the kitchen doors and worktops leaving the shells in place.

The Process

Once you’ve agreed to commence, we’ll get your doors made to the exact sizes to match those currently in your kitchen, plus have your countertop overlays made to order and set a date to start the work. The entire process is very quick and in most cases, only takes a couple of days to complete once we have everything ready to go.

The great thing about a kitchen makeover is the lack of intrusiveness. All the contents of your cupboards and drawers can stay in place so we don’t cause you too much nuisance like a complete kitchen refit would. We’ll firstly remove the worktops (if it is being completely replaced and not overlaid), making sure the water has been disconnected and any sinks and taps are free for removal. We’ll then dismantle the existing doors and drawer fronts leaving just the kitchen carcasses in place, ready for us to do our magic!

At this point, we’re ready to get started with replacing the doors with exact fits in the new style and colour of your choice. The whole process is very seamless so within just a few hours, you will already start to see the difference your new doors can make.

Once the doors and drawer fronts are in place, we’ll then concentrate on the worktop. Either a completely new worktop will be brought in and fitted or the overlays will be placed on top of the existing worktop. And this is where you really start to see it take shape. With the new doors and worktop now fitted, the new look kitchen starts to emerge.

All that’s left are the finishing touches. We’ll fit the new kitchen sink and taps, the hob and appliances, plus any desired extras such as extractor hoods or splash-backs and your new look kitchen is all but ready!

To make your kitchen just that little bit more high end, we’ll make sure we fit suitable modern handles and hardware, soft closing mechanisms, perfectly mitred plinths and cornices and finish off any edges with suitable sealants and caulking.

That’s it. Your beautiful new kitchen is ready for use and it only took a matter of days!

Our team will fit new doors, drawers, worktops and appliances to complete your beautiful kitchen makeover.

Are you ready for a kitchen makeover?

If giving your kitchen a makeover sounds like the perfect solution to updating and modernising your home, why not give us a call to arrange your own consultation

Appointments are free and there’s no obligation to go ahead. So what have you got to lose? Contact Fitted Doors today and get the dream kitchen you always wanted for less.