Choosing a kitchen counter is an important part of your kitchen design. It is important to choose something that you like, can handle the stress of your household’s activity and that you can afford. Here is a list of popular kitchen counter top materials, their strengths, weakness and pricing. 

In order to make your home improvement or remodeling project process a little easier we have provided you with a few hints and guides to a kitchen remodeling. In addition to the tips below, we encourage you to fill out and bring the Kitchen Planning Questionnaire with you to the first visit to Currier Kitchens. The Questionnaire will help us better judge your needs and requirements. Before work begins: * In the weeks before the work begins, keep a list of all those restaurants you’ve been meaning to try. When the microwave gets old, your list will come in handy for a quick escape! * Before the cabinets arrive – decide on a safe enclosed area for the cabinets and appliances to be delivered to. Usually the garage is a good location. * Pack up the kitchen (or bathroom) well before the remodel. While it’s a great time to “spring clean” your shelves, don’t forget to label the storage boxes well. This will make the unpacking process a lot easier and a lot more fun! Items that are fragile should be marked accordingly and stored in an area away from the construction. * Plan a location outside of the area where the remodeling is being done to act as your temporary kitchen. During Construction: * Plan a way to keep food cool if your refrigerator is removed or unusable during the remodel. Coolers in the garage work well as does moving the refrigerator there during construction. * You maybe able to temporarily move everything you need…except the kitchen sink! Consider where your “water source” will be in relation to your temporary kitchen. * Microwave (and a freezer stocked with microwavable meals!) In a fond farewell to you old kitchen, spend some time in it, cooking. Make family favorites and throw them in the freezer. We promise you…you’ll thank yourself later! * Coffee Maker (don’t forget to put the filters and coffee close at hand too!) * Utility utensils, such as: can opener, bottle/wine opener, sharp knives, and microwavable dishes * Toaster * Keep the basics handy: butter, salt & pepper, favorite spices * Dining area/table * Tell the kids you’re picnicking…use paper plates & napkins as well as disposable silverware. * Cleaning supplies and dishtowels Other things to think about: * If it’s a bathroom remodel, pretend you’re packing to go on a trip. Remember the hairdryer and curling iron! * Don’t forget about Fido & Kitty! If there isn’t an area in your home to keep them safely away from construction, especially during certain phases – it maybe a perfect time to treat your pet to a vacation at the kennel or a play date at a friend’s home. * Decide in advance where you’d like the installers to store their tools. * Dust…there’s just no way to avoid it! If there is a fish tank or electrical equipment in close proximity to the work – remember to keep them well covered!

Now that you have set a budget for your project , visit kitchen and bath showrooms. You will see many different displays of not only cabinet door styles and finishes, but countertops, sinks and faucets. Try to focus on one thing at a time. It can be overwhelming. Ask for brochures from the different cabinet companies. Start a file of what appeals to you. The brochures often have photos of complete kitchens with appliances, lighting , tile splashes, and paint colors. You can supplement your idea file with downloads from design sites, such as Houzz, Pinterest, HGTV, to name a few. Don’t forget the interior accessories that add conveniences to your kitchen. Shop for appliances. Don’t purchase yet, just decide on the finish of the appliance, the sizes, as well as the function. Do you want a professional style range or a cook top and wall ovens. How do you use a microwave? Are French Door refrigerators right for you. Return to those kitchen/bath showrooms and ask about the construction and finish of the cabinetry. Almost all American cabinet companies use a catalyzed varnish system on their wood cabinetry. The painted cabinets have a sprayed and baked on finish which improves durability. Open the doors and use the interior accessories as intended. Do they work with ease or are they awkward and difficult. Are the drawers all hardwood and do the drawer glides offer more space for a bigger drawer. Showroom displays are to be used don’t be shy. Now you are ready to have an initial consultation with a designer.