Kitchens Archives - Page 2 of 3

Home improvement and renovation tips

Plan a kitchen island (Part I)

A kitchen island is a great way to add storage and counter space to your kitchen without cutting into valuable wall space for appliances, tables and other things. Plus, you can put the counter wherever you want it; you're not restricted by the wall layout.Islands can also house appliances you don't have room for elsewhere, ...

Plumbing pointers and tips (Part II)

We started into some plumbing tips last time. Here are some more things to think about and do when you're working on your pipes.Wire warning: You may come across a ground wire clamped to pipe you're moving or removing. The wire is more than likely inert, however, if a short circuit should suddenly occur, that ...

Plumbing pointers and tips (Part I)

Here are some things to remember when you're working on the water supply or the drains in your house.If you're starting a project, now's the time to save yourself work later. Get lots of shutoffs and install them wherever you think you might like to shut off the supply to an appliance, fixture or room.When ...

The 10 commandments of kitchen cabinet and counter installation

You probably know all about the kitchen triangle by now. But what about the secret numbers divined by higher powers -- namely kitchen designers.Here are 10 of them. (Lightning won't strike you if you don't follow them.)1. If you have a small kitchen (10' x 15' or less), you shall have no less than 144" ...

How to install kitchen cabinets on the level

Putting in kitchen cabinets would be really easy... if houses were perfectly square and level. Of course, they're not, and you need to allow for this when you're installing cabinets. You can't just plop them on the floor, or you'll get water running along the counter. So you have to level the top at a ...

Budget kitchen makeovers

Installing cabinets, a center island with a bar sink, or replacing all your appliances will give your kitchen a whole new look. But if you'd prefer to start small, here are some ideas to help you spruce up your kitchen without spending a lot.Add crown molding to the top of your cabinet carcasses. This gives ...

What are GFIs and why do you need them?

Let's answer that question in reverse order. You have them because they might save your life.Faulty electrical appliances can conduct electricity, and if you touch that appliance you're suddenly part of the circuit. The current flashes through your body to the ground and, well... that's that. Naturally the danger is compounded when you add water.But ...

How to repair plugged drains and slow-draining drains

Here are some ideas to keep your water -- and your life -- flowing smoothly.Check the angles. As you'd imagine, drains should flow downward. But for one reason or another -- maybe your house has settled or someone's done bad work in the past -- a portion of the run may end up with a ...

How to plan a new kitchen

It's a big job, but kitchen remodelling brings a great return on your investment.Layout, look and atmosphere. Evaluate your family needs, with ample input from the cook. Is the kitchen the heart of your home? Do you want to eliminate traffic? Is there more than one cook in action at once? Do you entertain often? ...

Make your own butcher block

If you've ever put a scratch or nick in your counter top while preparing food, you might want to think about a butcher block counter. With a butcher block, nicks aren't a problem; they're "character". Wood is also attractive, and some studies show a wood surface prevents bacteria growth better than many other materials.And if ...