Home Improvement Advice

Kitchen storage organization can be a pain at times. Not only is the kitchen a much-used room – but it’s also typically filled with numerous items to be cooked or cooked with.

The probability of a mess is likely and even more so when you have a large family or a love of cooking.

To help you with your kitchen storage organization problems – here are some unique ideas you can use today in your home.

*Hanging Storage*

Since pots and pans tend to take up so much room – they are perfect candidates for hanging kitchen storage organization.

You might choose to have hooks hanging from the ceiling – or perhaps have a bar installed above the island in your kitchen from which to hang your larger pots and pans. (more…)

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The kitchen countertop has to be able to take a lot of abuse including the heat of pots, cutting and knives and abrasive cleansers.  The ideal countertop should be able to stand up to heat and the sharp edge of a knife.

Let us take a look at 7 of the most popular kitchen countertop materials being used today:

Granite – A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for it’s classic beauty and durability.  Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones.   It can create a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than most materials.  granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces, although it is still considered a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible.

Marble – Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.

Slate – Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds.  It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble.  Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use.  It is less expensive than marble

Concrete – This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertops today.   It is a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs.  Available in pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site.  Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters.  Concrete kitchen countertopsare expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care.  The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract.  Concrete can be stained any color.  The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.

Corian –  A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990’s  It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts.  It is a totally manmade product and is not porous.  As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.

Stainless Steel – Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to exteme wear and heat.  Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen.  Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop.

Tile – Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosiac.  Available in many colors, sizes and textures.  It has good design flexibility.  Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes.  The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained.  Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked.

Eating will never go out of fashion. We will always need a place in the home where we can easily and safely prepare our food. We call that place the kitchen. Here are a few tips to help make your kitchen a better, safer and more efficient place to work in.

1. Lighting is probably the most important thing to get right. Strip or spotlights located under wall units work best to provide good, unobtrusive lighting.

2. Hard wearing flooring that’s easy to clean is another essential. Carpeting on floors surrounding kitchen worktops is a big mistake.

3. Electric sockets in abundance will make life so much easier. But remember to keep them at least a metre from any source of water.

4. Have all your regularly used utensils stored close to the areas where they will be used. This increases efficiency and reduces accidents.

5. Choose the type of kitchen sink that’s best suited for you. They come in all shapes, double or single, and in a variety of materials. Think before you buy.

6. The type of taps on your sink is important too. Get taps with plenty of height. The swivelling type adds flexibility, but you may prefer the look of double taps. Again, think about what you want.

7. Keep children out of your kitchen. Toddlers have greater ingenuity than you give them credit for. Fit any cupboard or drawer they can reach with childproof catches. Store all sharp objects, knives, etc, high up in a locked drawer.