CABINETS FAQ’s
-
Do you do only Kitchen Cabinets?
No. In addition to Kitchen cabinets, we have made: Islands, Desks, Book-Cases, Lockers, Fireplace Mantels & Surrounds, Reception Area Desks and Cabinets, Bath Vanities, Tub Enclosures, Muddroom Storage Cubicles and Benches, Laundry Room Cabinets, Bars, TV Cabinets, Closet Storage Cabinets/Bins, Tea Carts, Display Cases, Exam Room Tables & Cabinets… We will do most anything made of wood.
-
Do you stock any Cabinets?
Yes we do stock Bathroom Vanities and Onyx Tops. Visit our showroom and you could leave the same day with a new Bathroom Vanity and Onyx top. Because we are a Custom Cabinet Company we do not stock prefabricated kitchen cabinets.
-
I want to Remodel my Kitchens. Where do I start?
Contact Lifestyle Kitchens at 402-463-4306 to set up an appointment to meet with one of our designers.
-
Do I need to bring Anything?
Measurments are always a good place to start and any visual aids or pieces to match that you would like designed into your cabinets will speed up the designing process.
-
What can I expect on our 1st appointment?
We will talk about your design, you will look at samples of style and color and chose what you like. If you have measurements, our designer may be able to create a layout design for you. We will also talk about lead time and countertop choices.
-
Can I come in without an appointment?
Yes you can come in and browse our showroom anytime you wish, We have hundreds of samples to look at to help determine your choice of style. However one of our designers may not be available to talk to you at that time.
-
Do you do Custom Cabinets?
Yes! We are the only Custom Cabinet Manufacturer in the area that will make your cabinets exactly according to your style.
-
Are your Custom Cabinet expensive?
No. They are priced according to your design. Sometimes the leading brand may be more expansive, sometime not.
-
Will you come and measure my kitchen and/or area I plan to put new cabinets?
Yes. We will always measure before we place the order.
-
Can you match my existing cabinets?
Most of the time, depending on how old it is and the color yellowing or fading.
-
When can I place the order?
When the measurements are all confirmed, the proposal is signed and deposit is made.
-
How long before I will have my cabinets?
Lead times could run from 6 weeks to 3 months, It depends on your choices. Do not wait until you need the cabinets to come talk to us. We do not stock prefabricated kitchen cabinets.
-
Do you install everything?
We will always install Granite and Quartz countertops but we do not have a crew to do cabinet installation anymore. You will have to hire a contractor.
-
Do you tear-out my old cabinets?
Usually your contractor will do that, unless it is predetermined at the time of the order.
-
Do you do New Construction?
Yes, we will need a blue print and your choice of style.
-
Do you do Commercial jobs?
Yes, all the time.
-
What is the Best kind of Countertop to get?
That depends on where the countertop is going to be installed, the climate, the use and your budget. But probably the most decisive factor is if you like the way it looks. We will not advise you to install a type of countertop that is not well suited for what you need. Please see our Countertop FAQs to help you determine your choice.
Countertop FAQ’s
-
Which material should I choose?
Laminate countertops are the most affordable option that we offer. Affordability, paired with a wide variety of colours and textures, means that replacement when a pattern goes out of style, or you get bored with it, is an inexpensive option. High definition laminates also are scratch and stain resistant, meaning they will last longer and require little maintenance. Unfortunately, laminate is not resistant to heat, can still scratch or stain, and is not a natural material.
Granite countertops are a completely natural stone, making it more sustainable. Because it is natural stone, it is very durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Despite needing occasional resealing, granite is minimal maintenance and very user friendly and is meant to last a lifetime. When considering granite, it is important to note that fabrication is limited to the slabs capabilities, and every slab is different. It is also more expensive than laminate.
Quartz countertops are an engineered stone, making it more predictable to work with. Because it is engineered stone, it is somewhat durable and resistant to scratches, stains, and heat. Quartz is minimal maintenance, does not require resealing and is meant to last a lifetime. Unfortunately, quartz is more expensive than laminate and granite. Because it is engineered, each slab is nearly identical, which can sometimes make for an artificial appearance. Quartz can also scorch if exposed directly to high heat.
Butcher block is a natural and affordable option that has many different wood options. The natural beauty of wood, combined with the affordability, makes butcher block an ideal sustainable option. Unlike all the other options we offer, you can cut directly on the butcherblock surface. When considering this option, it is important to note that butcher block requires regular care and maintenance and is not resistant to scratches, stains or heat. However, it can be sanded and renewed.
Stainless Steel countertops offer a sleek look for a modern home. They are not damaged by heat, and are stain resistant. Unfortunately, there are not many options for different colours or patterns, and no variation like in a natural product. They can also suffer from scratches and dents.
-
Pros & Cons about each countertop material
Laminate
Pros
o Affordable
o Wide variety of colours
o Easy to replace
o Light scratch and stain resistance
Cons
o Not resistant to Heat
o Can still scratch and stain
o Not a natural material
Granite
Pros
o Natural stone
o Resistant to scratches, stains, and heat
o User friendly and low maintenance
o Wide variety of colours
o Meant to last a lifetime
Cons
o Slabs can limit fabrication options
o Needs resealing occasionally
o More expensive
o Heavy and hard to replace
Quartz
Pros
o Some Resistant to scratches, stains, and heat
o User friendly and low maintenance
o Wide variety of colours
o Meant to last a lifetime
Cons
o Most expensive
o Heavy and hard to replace
o Can have artificial appearance
o Can scorch if exposed to high heat
Butcher Block
Pros
o Natural product with many wood options
o Affordable
o Can cut directly on the surface
o Can be sanded and resurfaced
Cons
o Requires regular care and maintenance
o Not resistant to stains, scratches or heat
Stainless Steel
Pros
o Not damaged by heat
o Stain resistant
Cons
o Not scratch resistant
o Can dent
o Not many colour or pattern options
-
Design tips to find the perfect countertop for your cabinets
If you’re renovating your kitchen, you may be facing the common issue of deciding which countertop material will best match your design. If you’ve already chosen your flooring and your cabinets, you’ll then need to choose a countertop material that complements your choices. However, envisioning what will work in the space isn’t always easy for everyone. If you need help deciding what countertop will be perfect for your kitchen, read this convenient guide.
For Dark Wood Cabinets
Dark wood cabinets are very versatile in that they can work for contemporary or traditional design schemes. The main deciding factor in what countertop will work best lies in the undertone of your cabinets. If your cabinets are a warm-toned dark wood, opt for a classic choice like granite. Granite will lend itself to a more traditional design and emphasize the warm tones throughout the space, creating a more inviting environment. If your dark wood cabinets are cool-toned, however, choose a more modern material such as quartz. Create stunning contrast by choosing a white quartz, or keep the room minimal by pairing your dark wood with a dark grey or black quartz.
For Cherry Cabinets
If your flooring and/or cabinets are made of cherry wood or mahogany, granite will finish your design off perfectly. Choose a granite countertop with warm, golden tones such as Oxford Gold or Lapidus, or opt for something like Emerald Pearl if you want a darker space that will create more ambiance.
For Light Wood Cabinets
Light wood cabinets have similar versatility to dark wood, but unlike dark wood, you run a high risk of making your kitchen look one-note and washed out if you choose the wrong countertop. Try to stay away from beige or golden countertop materials, as these could match too closely to your cabinetry and blend in. The key to achieving visual interest in a kitchen with light wood is contrast. One option is to incorporate stunning countertops in a bright white. The white paired with the light wood will open up the space and make it more airy while still offering enough contrast between the two tones for strong visual appeal. Conversely, you can also choose a dark countertop to achieve this contrasted effect. Where white will modernize the space, dark stone and light wood are a traditional pairing that offers a classic design that’s never dated.
For Sleek, White Cabinets
If you have shiny white cabinets for a modern kitchen, the best countertop solution will be anything with a neutral color palette. Stay away from warm tones such as golden granites or quarz. Instead, choose whites, cool greys, and simple blacks. Avoid too much texture or speckling in your countertop material. If you choose stone countertops, veining should be subtle and still within this neutral color family. Quartz is one of the best options for this cabinetry, as it is an affordable and a durable material that instantly modernizes any design with its minimalistic finishes.
-
Can I afford a Granite Countertop?
Some home owners believe granite is an extremely expensive countertop that is out of their price range. While Granite stone is more expensive then budget options such as laminate and tile, the price of natural stone Granite countertops is generally less then the man-made Quartz. The price will widely depend on which slab you choose. At Lifestyle Kitchens we work with stone distributors that offer a large variety to choose from with competitive prices to help you find your dream choice. The slab you picked will be delivered to our Rocky Tops Granite fabricators to finish with control of every step, offering enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal at a remarkable affordable price for the perfect finishing touch to your remodel project.
Granite FAQ’s
-
What about staining and sealing?
While not all granites have the same physical characteristics, most granites have naturally low moisture absorption rates. Therefore, staining of your granite top, especially when highly polished, is normally not an issue. With that said, it is a common practice by fabricators to apply a sealant to the countertop for added security and “just-n-case” protection to your investment. Future applications of sealant, given homeowners choose to do so, will take only a cotton cloth and a few minutes worth of time.
-
Does granite harbor bacteria?
According to a March 2004 study performed by the Hospitality Institue of Technology and Management, a St. Paul, Minnesota-based organization that develops educationaly materials and research for the retail food industry, granite is rated second only to stainless steel for safety against bacterial contamination. Further, the study proves that granite is found to prevent food-borne illness pathogens from remaining on your countertop after cleaning better than composition stone.
-
Can you scratch granite?
Second only to diamonds, granite is one of the Earth’s hardest stones. With that, few materials have the ability to scratch your granite. Therefore, one can rest assured that granite will not scratch under normal conditions.
-
Can you chip Granite?
While one of the most aesthetically pleasing stones, granite is also one of the hardest. Unless you are heavily abusing your countertop with a hammer or another excessive force, granite is unlikely to chip. Yet in the event that it does, you should save the chips and bring them to your fabricator. They will be able to use the chips to repair your countertop.
-
Are granite countertops easy to care for?
Absolutely. Simply wipe your countertops down with mild soap and water mix or an ammonia-free window cleaner to keep them looking new for years to come.
-
What do I do if I spill?
Blot the spill with a paper towel immediately. Do not wipe the area, it will only spread the spill. On the rare occatsion that a stain is left flush the area with plain water and mild soap several times. Dry the area thoroughly with a soft cloth. Repeat as necessary.
-
How does granite compare with synthetic countertops in the long run?
Countertops made from acrylic and other manufactured materials may have the “look” of granite, but the similarities end there. For resistance to bacteria, heat, scratches, stains, and overall performance, granite is unsurpassed. Some marbles with honed or matte finishes also make high quality kitchen countertops.
Sinks FAQS
-
Which are the best materials for bathroom sinks?
-
Which sink materials require a higher maintenance?
-
Which Kitchen Sink Material is more heavy duty?
Couldn’t find what you need? Submit your queries & we’ll respond right away!
Mon - Fri: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Sat: By appointment only
Sun: Closed
