Kitchens tend to be a main gathering place in a home, and are also the most expensive to update. If you're looking to give your kitchen a makeover but don't want the headaches, stress and empty wallet, here are 5 easy steps that will help you shed years, even decades off of your current kitchen:
CABINETS. There are four easy ways to change your cabinets and make your kitchen more striking. First you can change the look by painting the current cabinets and by adding new pre-made cabinet doors. If you would rather not paint, consider staining the cabinets if the wood is still in good shape. Update the look with a dark cherry or teak but remember to strip and sand them before painting or staining. After you paint or stain, try taking the doors off the top cabinets for an 'open look'. Lastly, adding new hardware can do wonders for the look of your kitchen. Use modern styles like pewter or nickel to take decades off the style of your kitchen.
PAINT. The most inexpensive way to change a space for the better is a gallon of paint. If you are looking to sell in the near future, stick to neutral colors. If not, paint as you wish. Color coordinate and style with curtains, floor mats and decorative features on the walls.
FLOOR. Press and stick vinyl tiles look high end and can easily installed.
APPLIANCES. If your appliances are still in good working condition, consider painting them to give your kitchen an updated look. You can either do this yourself or consider taking them to an automobile shop. There is no use in buying new appliances if the ones you have work great. Just give them a little update.
COUNTERTOPS. Most home improvement stores carry precut, ready to install countertops. This is a great way to update your kitchen to any style you want and can be very cost effective if you can find a style you like that is on sale or clearance.
The next time you begin debating whether or not to do a kitchen update, makeover or remodel, keep these tips in mind. Before you know it you can have a brand new kitchen without all the hassle.
Joe