Cheap renovations cost more in the long run

The Renovations, Kitchen, Bath and Window Show has come and gone for another year. If you're considering renovating your kitchen, I hope you attended the show and spoke to several dealers.

If you did, you're probably already getting back some cost estimates. When comparing quotes, be sure to compare apples with apples. If there's a dramatic price difference from one dealership to another. find out why.

Price differences usually reflect construction quality, cupboard door style and the complexity of the finish. Door style will most definitely affect the price. For the sake of continuity. let your selection be influenced by the design and architectural style of your home, as well as your personal taste.

Be aware that simple doors are less expensive than elaborately carved ones. A stain on a wood door is less expensive than a multi-step finish.

Before you decide, investigate what's behind the closed doors. Always cheek the cabinet specifications.

How thick are the materials used to construct the case? The thicker. the better. How are they constructed? Cabinets that are put together using mechanical fasteners, dowels and glue will last the longest. Also, cheek the drawer box construction and the hinge and drawer slide system.

Buy the best you can afford. You'll save money in the long run. Why? It's hard to notice many cosmetic differences when looking at two brand new kitchens. However two or three years from now you'll more than likely have to replace a cheaply constructed kitchen, while good quality cabinets will stand the test of time.

At the show, many people were concerned about the interior of the cabinet. They thought that melamine is inferior to solid wood. Not necessarily so. Particle board covered with a vinyl. melamine or other protective surface is just as good, and in some cases better, than plywood or. solid wood for case construction.

Unlike the latter, particle board combined with melamine will not warp, split or splinter.

So, when considering case interior materials, look closely. If there are chips along the edges, you're probably looking at a cheaply made product.

Once you're satisfied with the quality of the cabinetry, look at the proposed kitchen layout and cost. Does the layout suit your family's routine? For instance, does one person do all the cooking or is it a family affair? Do you entertain a lot? Do you eat on the run or enjoy gourmet meals?

A fast-paced family that doesn't eat meals together doesn't require a kitchen designed for large meal preparation. If meals are eaten on the run or outside the home, less equipment, space and storage is needed in the kitchen.

Plan for daily convenience rather than for the occasional holiday, family gathering or other big event. The ease and savings that result from planning a kitchen around daily needs will outweigh rare inconvenience.

A quick word on the professionals you're dealing with: Don't hesitate to ask your designer for references. Ask former clients if they were satisfied with the work and the quality of the cabinetry. Did they enjoy working with the designer? It's important to develop a good working relationship with your designer. He or she should understand your needs.

Also, look for titles of accreditation. These titles indicate membership in professional organizations. Ask what the membership requirements are. Some organizations require that the applicant undergo rigorous testing while others only require a fee for enrolment.