Do It Yourself Kitchen Remodeling

The Basics of Do It Yourself Kitchen Remodeling

Lots of homeowners choose to remodel their kitchens at one time or another. Making improvements to your kitchen can make it a nicer and more efficient place to be. Not only that, but the right improvements can add value to your home, which can help you if you ever decide to sell. If you're looking for ways to keep costs down, one way is with do it yourself kitchen remodeling. In this article you'll learn about some common do it yourself projects for the kitchen.

Cabinet Refacing

To reface your cabinets, you'll need some basic tools. The first thing you'll want to do is remove all the hardware and hinges. Label your cabinets so you'll know which one goes where when putting them back. Then, you'll want to remove the existing finish with a furniture stripper. The best way to do this is to take your cabinet doors outside where the light and ventilation is good. After stripping and washing, it's time to sand. When your cabinets are smooth, dust them off and refinish with the stain or paint of your choice. After they're completely dry, you can reattach them and replace your old cabinet pulls with shiny new ones.

Repainting

A fresh coat of paint can work wonders for a dreary, drab kitchen. If your kitchen is small, choose light colors to add the illusion of space. Larger kitchens can handle darker colors, which add a cozy feel. Semi-gloss paint is perfect for the kitchen because it's attractive and easy to clean. Make sure you gather all your materials and protect your surfaces and floors before beginning to paint. The first thing to do when painting is to cut in the corners with a small detailing brush, then paint the larger areas. You will probably need two coats for the best coverage. Allow each coat to dry before applying the next one.

Countertops

Installing countertops is another project that many handy homeowners choose to do themselves. The first step is to cut off the water and remove cabinet drawers and contents. Cut the countertop material to fit your needs. Then, you'll want to flip the countertop over and install the wood strips called the buildup. If you're using laminate countertops, use an iron to apply the caps to the ends. After making necessary cutouts, joining mitered sections and securing the top, you will be ready to reinstall your hardware and appliances.

To learn more about do it yourself kitchen remodeling and find in-depth details for various projects, check out some magazines or books on the subject. One good choice is Kitchen Remodeling for Dummies, by Donald R. Prestly.

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