FAQ

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FREQUESTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

We try to educate homeowners so they feel informed, and are better prepared to make decisions.  Here is a collection of Frequently Asked Questions;

Are plywood cabinet cases better than melamine?
The case material of cabinets affects the cost of the cabinetry package.  The most common cabinet case options are either a  5/8″ or 3/4″ thermally-fused laminate (aka melamine) on particle board, or 5/8″ or 3/4″ clear-coated birch-veneer on plywood. 
Typical cabinet drawerbox material options are 5/8″ thermally-fused-laminate (TFL) on particle board, 5/8″ dovetail clear-coated ply- or solid-wood, or a steel-sided model, with a 5/8″ bottom. 
Our cabinetry uses traditional joinery techniques so the construction of our cabinets is structurally sound, regardless of the case material.  The plywood is lacquered, so care is needed in the use, to help with the longevity of the finish.  The TFL is extremely durable, but care is needed as to not pierce the surface.
Cabinet roll-out/pull-out shelves match the case material. TFL roll-out shelves are available with rails or solid sides.
All visible elements (except for the undersides of wall/upper cabinets, unless specifically requested) of your cabinetry will match your door colour, or whatever material and colour that suits the design.  There are various options for open cabinetry, open shelving and glass door features.
The cost of the plywood-core cabinet case packages are approximately 12-15% more than that of your kitchen with particle-core cases.  The plywood-core case packages include solid wood drawerboxes.
All doors have soft-close hinges, and all drawerboxes and pull-outs have undermount soft-close, full-extension slides.  All hardware is fully adjustable, and covered by warranty.
There are many organizational accessory options available, to make the most of the storage space.  The functionality of corner cabinet accessories has advanced, and there are various trash centers now designed to support household recycling needs.
The choice between plywood cases and thermally-fused-laminate cases, is based upon individual priorities, and less-so about durability. We’d be pleased to help you assess your needs, to determine which cabinet-case and drawerbox material is best for your household.
How long does renovating a Kitchen take?
The timeline for renovating a kitchen is contingent upon various factors.  The scope, customization and material availability contributes to the overall timeframe.
If all utility services and wall structures are to remain in their existing locations, the timeframe for a kitchen renovation can be significantly less than if major modifications are planned.
Typically, from the time final decisions are made, new custom cabinetry will take 6-8 weeks to build.
Approximately a week or two prior to the expected installation-date of cabinets, the disconnect, demo and removal of the existing kitchen occurs.
Whether flooring is laid prior to cabinet installation or after can impact the timeframe of a renovation.  Most kitchen cabinet packages take 3-5 days to install.  Cabinets are then ready for countertop measure.  From this point, countertop turnaround time is usually 10-15 business days.
Once countertop is installed, fixtures and appliances can be (re)placed.  Quartz splashes are templated after countertop is installed, and another turnaround time commences. Tile backsplashes can be done either before or after fixtures are re(connected). 
In our experience, for average kitchens, we find that the timeframe homeowners can be without running water and cooking facilities ranges from 4-6 weeks. To get an accurate estimate for the specific timeframe you can expect, we’d be happy to assess the unique aspects of your project.
How much is a new Kitchen?
Determining the cost of a new kitchen can vary widely based on several factors, making it challenging to provide a one-size-fits-all answer. The overall expense is influenced by the scope of the project, the type and quality of materials chosen, labor costs, and any additional features or customizations. 
Cabinetry is the integral component of a kitchen. The cabinetry package bears a comprehensive pricing process unto itself. Aside from the varying sizes of kitchens, the cabinet case, drawerbox type, the door style, material and finish, affect the cost of the kitchen.
A mid-sized (10’x10’), attractive and well-equipped kitchen cabinet package can cost between $25,000-35,000.
Kitchen appliances, whether you are relocating them or not, dis/re-connection and installation may require the skill, and sometimes specific designation, of a professional in a particular field. This cost needs consideration when estimating. A decent appliance package (refrigerator, range and hoodfan, dishwasher and microwave) can cost between $8,000-12,000.
Countertop options seem endless, but the current most popular material is still quartz. Brand name greatly affects cost, and the range is $120-140 per square foot, installed. There are various flooring materials available, such as tile, hardwood and vinyl. Costs, including installation, tend to range between $12-18 per square foot. Tile backsplashes can cost between $22-30 per square foot, depending on material cost, and the intricacy of the pattern/layout.
To get the most accurate estimate for your kitchen cabinetry, we’d be happy to assess the unique aspects of your project. Feel free to get in touch to start the process.
Do Kitchen Renovations require a Permit?

There are various factors involved to determine whether a permit is required for a kitchen and/or bathroom renovation.  Individual municipalities will have slightly different criteria, however, if all utility services will remain in their existing locations, usually a building permit is not required.
Replacing appliances and fixtures that require more than a simple plug-in, such as gas or electrical (re)wiring, sometimes “over-the-counter” permits pulled by the professional within that particular designation might be possible.
If service relocation and/or wall modifications are planned, the municipality will likely require documentation.  In general, replacement of cabinetry, countertop, backsplash and flooring shouldn’t require a permit.
Since each renovation is unique, we’d be happy to provide an in-depth review of your particular scenario. Having a clear understanding of what might be ahead, will help you be more prepared to make decisions.