CABINETS AND COUNTERTOPS

Al Carrell: If you're looking to spice up your kitchen by adding new cabinets and countertops, then you need to take a look at the different designs and types that are available today. It's best to start right here at your local design center, just like this one. That way you'll see the very latest in designs and make comparisons that fit your needs.

First, you should know that your standard cabinets come in two different sizes, 36" and 42". What's the difference? The cost. The 36" cabinets are less expensive but have less room. The 42" cabinets are obviously taller but have more room. But they cost more. In fact, you can expect to pay $15 to $50 more per running foot. It all depends on what you're looking for and how much space you need.

But besides space, there are some other very important features you ought to look at. Inside the cabinets you'll see there's white laminate. Now this is really neat stuff because it means it's going to be easy to clean and you don't have to put any of that darn shelf paper in there. I hate that stuff. Also, the shelves inside here are adjustable to take care of tall glasses or stacking plates, or whatever your desires are. Also notice that the hinges are on the inside. And that gives you a nice clean look. There is one drawback though. And that is, that when you open it up it won't open quite as wide as the type with the hinges on the outside. If you like the traditional cabinets, make sure the inside has a finished interior. That finished interior protects the cabinets from moisture.

Now depending on what you're looking for, there're two basic types of exteriors for cabinets. This is a solid oak door here. And you can also get a pressed board that has a plastic laminate over it. They're about the same in cost. And then there are two other types of cabinets, face frame cabinets and frameless cabinets. These are mostly in your high end cabinets, made of higher quality wood or plywood.

Well, now that the cabinets are in, it's time for the countertops. And there are lots of countertops to choose from. Today we'll be installing laminate countertops. It's a very common countertop and there are millions of colors to choose from. These tops are perfect for a do-it-yourself project and are reasonably priced. Personally, I recommend a solid surface countertop. They're easy to keep clean, no seams for food or grime to get trapped in, and if you scratch or burn the top, it can easily be repaired. There are several brands of solid surface countertops to choose from. This one is Corian. It's long lasting, cleans easily and makes a kitchen look great. As you can see, many of the new countertops that are available today really are beautiful. They're fairly easy to install and they're easy to maint ain. And it's a great way for you to add a new look to the place we spend a whole lot of time in, the kitchen.

Episode 39 1996 - 97 Season

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