Under Cabinet Lighting for Kitchens

Under cabinet lighting has been growing more and more popular over the years. You will find there are major benefits to placing lights under your cabinets. Kruse Home Improvement has installed under cabinet lighting for many of our customers. Under cabinet lighting can provide two functions in your kitchen. It can provide task lighting for countertop food preparation and accent lighting to highlight your countertop and backsplash. If you are planning to remodel your kitchen, below are more reasons why you may want to consider adding these to your kitchen.

 

Lights under your cabinets give direct light to an object eliminating or lessening shadows. This makes your room appear bright and clear which is perfect for a kitchen. In addition, under cabinet lights generally use less power which allows you sufficient light at a minimal cost.

 

Under cabinet lighting installed by KHI
brighten up this kitchen.

In the past, most people considered using lights only on the ceiling. Under cabinet lighting gives additional distinction and unique style to your room. Many kitchen countertops are made from granite or marble. These lights can make your stone countertops shine.
 

These under cabinet lights installed by KHI really
illuminate the countertop and backsplash in this kitchen.

Types of under cabinet lighting include the following:

Strip Lights: These are rectangular shaped fixtures and they work well with fluorescent bulbs. They are great for providing diffused light to the kitchen.

Puck Lights: These are round fixtures that got their name from their round, hockey puck-like size and appearance. These lights are best for highlighting countertops and backsplashes. Puck lights work with LED, halogen and xenon bulbs and can be mounted in different positions to either aim downward or at the backsplash. As an alternative, puck lights can usually be recessed into cabinets.

Linear lights: Linear lights are often used with fluorescent bulbs. They are the most popular types of fluorescent under cabinet kitchen lighting because they are thin, which allow them to be hidden behind the cabinet trim.

 

Under cabinet lighting installed by KHI.

You will find there are a wide variety of bulb options for under cabinet lighting. Choose a soft, dim light or a bold and bright light. The choice is yours. It is not hard to find the bulbs you like best. Types of bulbs include the following:

Fluorescent bulbs: These are commonly used for under cabinet lighting fixtures. They create a bright work area by providing clear light. The disadvantage of fluorescent lights is that they cannot be dimmed and they sometimes flicker.

Halogen bulbs: Homeowners seeking a bright, white light choose halogen bulbs. These bulbs have an extremely long life and can last up to 2,000 hours.

Incandescent bulbs: These bulbs are the least popular choice for under cabinet lighting as they are not very bright. Incandescent bulbs are not energy efficient and they emit heat. They last half as long as halogen bulbs.

LED bulbs: These bulbs are becoming a more popular choice among homeowners as they become more commonly available at lighting and home improvement stores. LED bulbs come in a variety of colors and provide homeowners with the ability to create unique decorative features. LED bulbs are best for puck lighting.

Xenon bulbs: These bulbs have the longest lifespan of all under cabinet light bulb options. They can last up to 10,000 hours and are energy efficient as they do not create heat.

You do not need to spend a lot of money to install under cabinet lighting. The bulbs and cables are not expensive but will add to the look and value of your home. In addition to a kitchen, under cabinet lights are popular in a study room, basement or garage.

For more information, call Kruse Home Improvement at 860-877-0775.




Article Sources: http://EzineArticles.com/3523488
http://ezinearticles.com/?The-Benefits-of-Under-Cabinet-Lighting-in-Your-Kitchen&id=3523488

Replacing Kitchen Cabinets

Thinking about replacing your kitchen cabinets? If so, below are some exciting things to consider as you plan your new look.

When planning your new cabinets, consider changing the layout of your kitchen. Moving appliances to new locations can improve the look and flow of your kitchen. If your kitchen is more than 20 years old, most likely relocating the appliances would make your kitchen more functional. If you’ve been lacking storage space, changing the layout is an opportunity to add more cabinets and have the storage you need.  In addition, new cabinets will allow you to add features such as pull out shelves to help reach the back of the cabinet and lessen unused space.

Mechanical system updates such as additional lighting and plugs or a range hood that exhausts outside may require a full scale renovation. It is always a good idea to ask about these options as mechanical items are easier to add when cabinets are removed and may save the need for a full scale kitchen renovation down the road.

When your old cabinets are removed, it is also the perfect time to change your flooring. Keep in mind that if you’re adding ceramic tile on a vinyl floor, the additional height may create an issue when installing new appliances so the time to add tile is when the cabinets and appliances are out.

If you plan on living in your home for many more years and you dislike the appearance of your kitchen, changing the cabinets will allow you to make upgrades at a very reasonable price. Kruse Home Improvement specializes in kitchen renovations and cabinet installations. Call us today to discuss your options.

 

Cabinets installed by Kruse Home Improvement

 

KHI Quarterly V4 Q2 - Spring 2013

The Stein Kitchen

I met Marc and Rachel Stein early last spring.  They had been contemplating setting into motion a kitchen design that they had been refining over the past 12 months with a local architect and designer.  Things had been at a bit of a standstill for the winter, as they had been searching for the right contractor to take on the project. I was lucky enough to have been introduced to the Steins, by a family member of my wife’s and good customer of ours, while we were performing some exterior repairs at their home. Rachel came by when we were finishing up our install and asked if we did kitchen work as well, the rest is history.  

The Stein’s kitchen design started by calling for the partial removal of the existing partition wall separating the formal dining room from the kitchen.  By leaving the lower half of the wall, we had space to install a full run of base cabinets and countertops helping to maintain precious storage and work area.  This  dramatically improved the flow and created total visibility between spaces.
 

The rear basement entry bulkhead was removed and relocated to another side of the home.  This allowed us to complete a small addition to the rear of the kitchen, minimally increasing the square footage but drastically improving the usable space and overall efficiency of the room. In addition, the rear entry and mudroom doors were relocated to accommodate a full U shaped kitchen cabinet layout with a 3’x5’ center island.

 

The home originally had built-in hydronic or hot water wall radiation units for its main source of heat.  Since we were essentially using up all of the available free wall space with cabinetry, we opted to install under cabinet toe-kick heaters to replace the lost heat. These units are very small, inconspicuous and efficient.  They get installed under your cabinetry thus taking up no more space than would have been used anyway. These small heating units have a variable speed fan which can be adjusted to the desired setting.  Whenever heat is called for by the thermostat, the fan will automatically kick on to circulate the heat radiating from the internal heat exchanger.

Rachel and Marc had already established a relationship with Modern Cabinets and Countertops out of Bristol; they had contracted the fabrication of the kitchen cabinetry while we later performed the complete installation. The cabinets were custom designed for this particular space eliminating the need for spacers and fillers in the installation. The countertops are all made of Quartz and manufactured by a company called Cambria, with the exception of the solid maple butcher block top on the island. The particular variety of Cambria that the Steins had chosen was on backorder for several weeks but the final product was worth the wait! The pairing of the blue glass subway tile backsplash against the stark Cambria countertops was near perfection. Countertops and splash, when coupled with the new LED recessed and under cabinet lighting we had installed, really “lit up” so to speak as the LED's white light permeated the translucent veining of the countertops and reflected back internally, literally glowing.

 

The Stein’s kitchen was a special project.  We were able to achieve a very bright, natural, and empowering space to inhabit; a place where you just feel good to be. This is the ultimate goal, a functional, sharp looking, and user friendly room that just feels right. I thank Marc and Rachel for the opportunity to work with them on what turned out to be a pretty exciting job.  I enjoyed the opportunity very much!

 

An Outdoor Kitchen and Bar – Your Place for Summertime Fun

If you love hosting barbeques and entertaining then having an outdoor kitchen and bar is for you. Perfect for the summer months, an outdoor kitchen and bar gives cooks the versatility of open-air cooking and entertainers a great place to gather with family and friends.

There are great benefits to having an outdoor kitchen and bar. Open-air cooking allows cooks to experiment with methods such as smoking and searing without the worries of too much smoke and lingering aromas. Also, not only is it a source of entertainment for social gatherings but you can save money on air conditioning bills by cooking outdoors. Besides, who wants to be stuck cooking in a stuffy, hot, indoor kitchen during the warm summer months? Another great advantage is adding to the real estate value of your house. Having extra amenities in your house does increase the re-sell value (something to keep in mind if you are planning to sell it in the future).

There are three basic designs used for outdoor kitchen and bars: the L-shaped island, U-shaped center and the basic island. The L-shaped design has two areas: one for cooking and another for preparing food. A seating area is usually near the grill. The U-shaped center design is a more common outdoor kitchen design and has separate eating, cooking and prep areas. The basic design is used for light cooking and usually comes with a small prep area, sink and grill.

An outdoor kitchen and bar has three essential features: a refrigerator, a grill and a sink. The refrigerator is convenient in saving you time running back and forth indoors and is the perfect way to serve your guests without having to stop a conversation. The sink allows you to do your prep and cleaning in one place and in turn lessens the mess inside your home. The grill is most often the centerpiece of an outdoor kitchen and bar. You can outfit your grill around the way you cook choosing features such as side burners, rotisserie options, a smoker drawer and convection oven capabilities. A custom-made outdoor kitchen and bar can include additional features such as a pizza oven, ice maker, a wine fridge, television and built-in fireplace.

You’ll find that there's no end to what an outdoor kitchen can do, allowing you to take your passion for cooking to the great outdoors.  You’ll love the range of features and space for cooking, prep and dining that your outdoor kitchen and bar provides. Kruse Home Improvement is one of the few contractors in the area with extensive experience creating outdoor kitchens. Call us today if you’d like to learn more.

 

 

Kitchen Islands – Add style, efficiency, and storage to your kitchen

If you're looking for a way to give your kitchen a unique look while also making it easier to get things done, you may want to consider a kitchen island. The kitchen island has come a long way over the years. Today’s kitchen islands are often elaborate becoming fully equipped ‘kitchens within a kitchen', often with amenities such as a  sink, microwave, stovetop, and even a refrigerator.  It becomes central to the overall kitchen design and adds a lavish touch to your kitchen.

Kitchen remodel done by KHI

The benefit of a kitchen island isthe additional work space, storage area and room for extra appliances that it provides. If your kitchen is lacking storage areas, a kitchen island may solve your problem.  It can even act as a breakfast bar and often times it becomes a popular hangout for hors d'oeuvres when entertaining. The island is great for extra seating.

A kitchen island can be as simple or as fancy as you desire. Many new kitchen islands are being designed with functional and decorative touches, turning the island into the focal point of the kitchen. A flat surface island, as opposed to multi-level, is a simple solution and contributes a simple elegance to a kitchen. Architectural details such as bump-outs, corner posts, inset areas and open shelving add personality and style.

Kitchen island installed by KHI

An elaborate island can include custom-built fine cabinetry, a sink, granite counters, a stovetop, cabinets for storage, a second dishwasher, a warming oven, or even a small refrigerator.  Additional nice features include a wine rack, cookbook shelves, bar sink or even a deep fryer. The simplest kitchen islands may just offer more counter and cabinet space but whatever type of island you choose, it will make your kitchen more elegant, luxurious and functional.

 

For more information call Kruse Home Improvement at 860-877-0775.

Source: http://www.kitchenremodelideas.com

Tips to Making a Small Bathroom Look Big and Beautiful

A small bathroom can be a challenge when it comes to bathroom remodeling.  After all, you have all the same needs a larger bathroom has but with less space available to meet these needs. The good news is that there are some ways to make the most of a smaller bathroom. Below are some great tips to making a small bathroom look big and beautiful.



Photo taken from KHI's gallery

Make Use of Corners

 

Making use of bathroom corners is a great way to make the room look more spacious. Use corner or standalone sinks or even medicine cabinets that will fit in a corner. A quandrant shower that has a curved door is a great way to gain more space for other things.

Add Fixtures that are Smaller

Another great tip that can help you make your small bathroom look big and beautiful is going with fixtures that are smaller. You can find smaller toilets, vanities, tubs, and even small sinks. They take up a lot less space in the bathroom, which makes the bathroom look less crowded.

Use Mirrors and Glass

Making use of mirrors and glass can really open up a small room and make it look a lot bigger. Try this tip: use two mirrors and have them face one another. It will make the room appear larger because of the reflection and the way the light bounces off the mirrors. Another great way to make the room appear more spacious is adding a glass shower door.
 
Choose Proper Lighting

Photo taken from KHI's gallery

Choosing the appropriate lighting can make a big difference in a small bathroom. You want to use decorative lighting to brighten any corners and in areas where you will be doing some grooming. Letting in natural light can make the bathroom look bigger too, which is why a skylight is a great idea.

Draw the Eye Up

Another great tip to keep in mind, if you want to make the bathroom look larger when remodeling, is to draw the eye up. When you do this, the room will look taller than it really is. You can do this by adding a border at the ceiling. Another way to accomplish this is to use vertical strips in the bathroom as well, making it seem taller than it is.

 

As you see, small bathrooms can have a lot of potential. There are definitely bathroom remodeling tips that can make your bathroom look incredible. For more tips or to discuss a bathroom remodel contact Kruse Home Improvement at 860-877-0775.

 Source: http://www.gather.com/viewArticle.action?articleId=281474978289059

 

Spring Remodeling Projects

With spring just around the corner, it’s the perfect time of year to tackle those home projects that you don’t want lingering into summer. If you’ve been waiting to make a few changes to your home, big or small, check out this list of spring remodeling projects that may be just what your home needs:

Photo taken from Kruse Home Improvement's gallery

1. Build a Deck — Building a new deck in the spring can assure you will enjoy to the warm weather. Though contractors manage to build homes and additions all year long, spring is a great time to have their full attention for outdoor projects and beat the summer rush which involves more outdoor projects such as siding and roofing.

 

2. Renew Your Floors – Winter can be harsh on your floors. Shoes, pets and sand can take its toll on your floors finish. This indoor project may not get you outside, but since it kicks up large quantities of dust, it requires lots of ventilation. Spring allows us the ability to keep the windows and doors open, letting fresh air in. Floor sanding is not fun in the summer heat, so get a jump on creating those beautiful floors now!

 

3.  Add Insulation – Insulation doesn’t just keep your home warmer in the winter, it also keeps it cooler in the summer. This will save you money on both your heating and cooling costs. The spring’s mild temperature makes it the perfect time to work in the attic.

 

Work done by Kruse Home Improvement

4. Replace Doors and Windows - Adding new doors and windows can improve the look and feel of your home as well as reduce energy costs. If you install Energy Star qualified windows, doors, and skylights it can reduce your energy bills up to 15% while helping protect the environment (source: Energy star). With daylight savings time here, you can enjoy the benefits and natural ambiance of more natural light throughout your home during the seasons we enjoy it most.

 

Need assistance with your spring projects? Contact Kruse Home Improvement for expert advice. Book a spring project and get 5% off your total bill.

 

Home Improvement Projects to Keep You Busy This Winter

Wintertime is the perfect time to complete various home improvement/remodel projects that require you to be inside. The short days and cold weather allow us to focus on the interior of our homes, garages, or basements. Below are some great home improvement projects to keep you busy this winter.

 

1. Kitchen - Winter is a great time to consider a kitchen remodel. You can do a simple face lift or a complete remodel.  A face lift can be very simple like new paint and cabinet re-facing. These simple changes will give your kitchen a new look and feel. A slightly bigger job can include new countertops and appliances. If you're looking for a full remodel, this will include cabinets, countertops, flooring, lighting, backsplash, appliances, paint and accessories. It may sound overwhelming but with a little planning and the right contractor it will make your winter a lot more exciting!

Kitchen Remodel by Kruse Home Improvement



2. Flooring - Heated floors have become increasingly popular. Nuheat Floor Heating Systems is a clean soundless system that brings warmth to any space and provides radiant zone heating which is very energy efficient. Zone heating uses a programmable thermostat, heating room by room, use by use - providing heat only where you want, when you want it. For more information on heated flooring visit www.nuheat.com.

 

3. Bathroom - Winter is a good time to launch a complete bathroom remodel. Install a new sink, medicine cabinet or recessed cabinet. Focus on the lighting in your bathroom and consider new faucets. If you feel up for a complete remodel then pick out a new tub and shower. Once this remodel is done you can choose new colors or wall paper to highlight your stunning new bathroom. To finish the new look, you can pick out rugs and towels. A completely remodeled bathroom will give you a great feeling of satisfaction.

Bathroom Remodel by Kruse Home Improvement

4. Painting - Changing the color in a room or just simply putting a fresh coat of paint on the walls can completely change the look and feel of a room. You can paint a room over the weekend or consider painting a room each month. When finished, you can spruce the room up more by replacing the switch plates and outlet covers. You'll love the new look!

 

5. Garage - If your garage is not insulated, the cold days may be a good time to hang insulation and sheet rock. A finished garage can increase the value of your home and give you a nice area to work in for other projects. 

6. Basement - Winter is also great time to finish the basement. You can hang insulation and sheet rock to turn the basement into a utility room, game room, guest room, or family room.  A finished basement not only allows you to add comfortable, dry and healthy living space for a fraction of the cost but it increases property value. It often times ends up being the favorite room of the house.

Basement Remodel by Kruse Home Improvement

7. Touch Ups - Perform little touch ups around your home. Try to focus on installing crown molding, refinishing a banister, placing new baseboard or weather-stripping your doors. There are always small projects around the house to undertake that you might have let ride over the year. Winter is the right time to get those small jobs done.

Source: http://voices.yahoo.com/top-7-home-remodeling-projects-winter-4974444.html