Tag: kitchen remodeling

Cabinet Refinishing Vs Painting

Jason Mitchell Home Improvement , , , , ,

Cabinet Refinishing Sacramento is a surface-only refurbishment that does not change the function of your cabinets. It’s ideal if your wood cabinets are in good structural condition but have an outdated finish.

Cabinet Refinishing

However, refinishing can be tricky—particularly when going from light to dark. It’s also typically not the best option if your doors and drawer fronts are made of thermofoil or laminate.

A key difference between cabinet refinishing and painting is that refinishing requires a full stripping process to remove the existing stain or paint from your cabinets. This can be done with a chemical stripper or sanding. Depending on the condition of your cabinets and the desired finish, either option may be appropriate for you.

While sanding is more time-consuming than simply cleaning your cabinets and applying a primer, it allows you to reach bare wood with minimal damage. If you are going to stain your cabinets, sanding is an essential step in the preparation process because it gives the wood a surface that will hold the stain well.

Paint can be used to cover blemishes on your cabinetry, but it is important to remember that paint will attract dust and dirt. You will need to wipe your painted cabinets down regularly to keep them clean and looking good.

When considering whether to refinish or repaint your cabinets, it is important to note that refinishing will likely cost more than simply repainting them. This is because refinishing includes the work necessary to get your cabinets back to their original state, which can be a lengthy process.

If you are unsure of which option is right for your project, talk to a professional. They can help you decide which will give you the best results for your budget and timeline. They can also address any structural or functional issues that you might be facing, such as broken knobs, misaligned doors, or other damage. They can even replace your hardware if it is beyond repair. If you are ready to discuss your options with a pro, enter your zip below and we’ll match you with top-rated pros.

Cleaning

Whether your cabinets are wood or laminate, they can get dirty over time. Dirt and grime build up on cabinet surfaces from cooking food, scrubbing dishes, and other daily activities. For most messes, a rag soaked in a mild soap solution should be enough to remove any residue and dirt on the surface.

For more stubborn grease stains, you may need to use a degreaser. Ideally, look for products that are non-toxic and formulated for laminates or painted surfaces. Avoid harsh chemicals such as white vinegar, chlorine bleach, abrasive cleansers and commercial citrus oil cleaners, which can damage the laminate or wood surface of your cabinets. If you do decide to use a stronger chemical, always test it on an inconspicuous area of your cabinets and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and effective use.

If you notice a tough grease stain that just won’t budge, try a little baking soda mixed with water to create a paste and scrub the spot. If you still can’t remove the grease, you may need to try a more heavy-duty degreaser such as Murphy oil soap or Orange Cleaner. Always use these in a well-ventilated area, and be sure to wear gloves and follow the manufacturers’ instructions for safe and effective use.

Don’t forget to wipe the inside of your cabinets as well. Using a duster or cloth, spray the cleaning solution on your cabinet doors and wipe them clean, paying attention to any corners or crevices where dirt tends to collect. After rinsing your cabinets, be sure to dry them thoroughly to prevent water damage from excess moisture. Also, be sure to wipe down the cabinet hardware to remove any traces of the cleaner.

Primer

If you’ve talked to professional local painters or read painting blogs, chances are you’ve heard them talk about the importance of primer. But what is primer exactly? And do you really need to use it when painting your home?

Primer is an initial coating that’s applied to a surface before applying a coloured coat. It’s typically formulated to ensure that paint adheres to the surface, so using it can help prevent your new paint job from cracking or peeling. It also helps to protect the underlying material from moisture and mildew.

Different primers are available for indoor and outdoor use, so it’s important to choose the right one for your project. Interior primers are usually water-based and designed for drywall, while exterior primers are solvent-based and intended for wood surfaces. Some primers are stain-blocking, which can be useful if you’re covering a dark colour with a light one. It’s also worth noting that stain-blocking primers typically contain higher levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), so you’ll want to make sure you’re wearing a mask and properly venting your workspace while working with them.

You’ll need to let your primer dry completely before you apply the coloured coat. Depending on the product you’re using, this may take between 24 hours to two weeks. Some primers also require that the topcoat be applied within a specific time-frame to ensure optimal adhesion, so it’s important to check the label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you’re using a brush to apply your primer, be sure to smooth out any uneven spots or brush marks once it’s dried to prepare for the finish coat. And if you’re using a roller, be sure to use long, even strokes to avoid leaving any gaps or lines.

Paint

Cabinet paint is applied with a brush, roller or sprayer, and may require multiple coats to achieve the desired appearance. Care must be taken with any sanding between coats, and proper taping to avoid wall damage and drips. A high quality primer is used to ensure good adhesion and stain blocking properties. A low odor primer is ideal to allow homeowners to stay home during the project.

Paint can completely change the look of your cabinets, ranging from classic white or gray to bold colors that make a statement. Cabinets can also be glazed or distressed for added texture and depth to the design. Decorative trim and molding can be added to the cabinet doors and drawer fronts for further customization.

While refinishing is an excellent option for changing the overall look of your kitchen, it is not the best solution for addressing structural or functional issues such as warped cabinet doors or loose hardware. It is also not recommended for addressing minor cosmetic problems such as scratches or dings on the existing cabinet door or drawer front.

Refinishing is not as durable as refacing and can be easily damaged by moisture, dirt and grease. The process can be difficult for the average DIYer, and it is important to take the time to prepare the surface properly before beginning. If you decide to refinish your own cabinets, be sure to use a high quality primer, sand between coats, and carefully follow the manufacturers instructions for application. It is also helpful to label each cabinet door and drawer front before beginning, so that you can return them in the correct order once the refinishing is complete.

Finishing

Cabinet refinishing is a time-consuming process that involves chemical peels and extensive sanding. It is only a cosmetic improvement and does not address structural issues like warped doors or faulty hardware. Refinishing is typically only recommended when you want to change the color of your existing cabinet doors. Refinishing can be very difficult to complete if you have detailed cabinet door profiles, but it is often the best option if you are trying to make a large color change.

When choosing a cabinet paint, it’s important to choose a high-quality semi-gloss that can withstand a lot of wear and tear. The finish should be resistant to heat, water, mildew, scratches and dents. It is also critical to properly prep your cabinets before painting, including sanding and cleaning. The most effective way to apply a new coat of paint is with a professional spray gun, however you can use foam rollers and brushes as well.

Cabinet finishing techniques add dimension to your design and set your space apart from the rest. Omega offers several finishing options to optimize your style, including Antiquing and Vintage Touch. These techniques accentuate your wood by creating the look of natural wear on edges and profiles over time. These effects are lightly sanded over profiles, and include the appearance of worm holes, light dents and chiseling for a timeless feel.

The Roles of General Contractors

Shannon Martin Home Improvement , , , , ,

General Contractors Tacoma, WA, handles a variety of construction project tasks. They are responsible for coordinating and administrating all project activities and ensuring they meet all the required standards.

They also manage the financial aspect of your project by tracking expenditures and keeping things within the budget. They take care of everything from obtaining the necessary permits to ordering materials.

Project management is a vital part of the construction process. It involves coordinating tasks, ensuring everyone is on the same page, and completing projects on time and within budget. The project manager (PM) oversees all project activities and is responsible for managing the GC, the CM, or the GC’s subcontractors and their teams.

The PM will use a work breakdown structure to define the project’s scope and establish a schedule with milestones. They’ll also identify resources, materials, and services, shaping a procurement strategy that includes evaluating potential subcontractors and suppliers based on quality standards and the overall project goals.

Once the bidding process is complete and the GC has been selected, the preconstruction phase begins. This is when the GC makes final preparations to begin construction, including assessing whether the design is constructible and securing any necessary permits or regulatory approvals. They’ll also conduct a risk assessment to identify and mitigate any issues that might emerge during construction.

During construction, the project managers and GC oversee daily operations, ensuring all work is carried out to plans and specifications. They’ll also monitor progress against the construction schedule and budget, addressing any deviations immediately. They’ll also coordinate with the CM to ensure subcontractors have all the information they need to complete their tasks and that they’re working in tandem to deliver on schedule.

When construction is complete, the project manager will oversee a closing process that involves final inspections and testing of all finished work to make sure it meets quality standards. They’ll also assemble all documentation, including warranty documents and manuals, required for handover to the client. Finally, they’ll review any operational issues that have arisen from construction and make any adjustments to improve future projects. Using a project management tool that can be shared with team members and stakeholders can help manage these processes efficiently and effectively.

Scheduling

GCs are responsible for scheduling subcontractors and specialty tradesmen to perform specific aspects of construction projects. They must make sure that all contractors are available to perform their tasks at the time that they are required on site. This is important because schedule changes can affect material deliveries, transportation issues, crew availability, and more. A good general contractor will create an accurate schedule from the start and ensure that all stakeholders are aware of upcoming deadlines.

Because of their experience in the industry, general contractors know how long it takes to complete a project. They also understand the unforeseen circumstances that may cause delays and will work to resolve these problems. This way, the remodeling project can be completed on time and within budget.

The GC is also responsible for purchasing all materials and equipment needed for the project. They will also arrange for the necessary building permits and city inspections. They have the connections to get high-quality products and skilled workers at a fair price because they have worked with vendors and subcontractors in the past.

While a GC might have their own team of employees that can do some labor on site, they will usually hire specialty contractors to perform the majority of work. This is because many construction projects are subject to union regulations and require specialized labor for certain jobs like plumbing, electrical work, or painting. GCs are familiar with the different methods for hiring specialized subcontractors and will typically use the most cost effective method for each situation.

GCs will also monitor the progress of subcontractors and specialty tradesmen to make sure that they are meeting the required milestones set by their contracts. They will also make sure that any change orders are addressed and resolved as quickly as possible.

In addition to monitoring the progress of construction, GCs will make sure that all parties involved in the project are paid on time. This can be difficult in construction because payment is often contingent on securing lien waivers, fulfilling requirements for each payment, and more. A good GC will streamline these processes and keep open lines of communication to avoid any delays.

Contract Negotiation

In the construction industry, contracts are the foundation for project agreements. Contracts set forth the rights and responsibilities of all parties involved in the construction process and define the scope of work required to complete the project. Contracts should also include the details of any change management processes that may occur during the course of the project. Successful contractors understand the importance of having a clear understanding of the contract they are negotiating and strive to negotiate terms that reflect their interests and experience.

When a project owner shares that a particular project is ready to be bid, General Contractors will review the project specifications and drawings and submit a quote for the work they are qualified to perform. Their quotes are based on the costs of materials, equipment and staffing needed to complete the job as well as a mark-up to cover company overhead. GC’s may also factor in risk and reward to determine the amount of profit they are willing to take on a particular project.

GC’s often utilize subcontractors to help with the heavy lifting on projects. Subcontractors are entities that specialize in specific trades such as plumbing, carpentry, cement work, painting and flooring. Subcontractors are typically paid for a short duration of time during the build phase of a project, and they are generally required to carry their own insurance. GC’s will negotiate with each subcontractor to ensure they are properly quoted for their work and that the pricing is in line with other similar projects.

It is important that each GC selects subcontractors that are licensed and have a solid track record with other projects. It is also beneficial to work with companies that are a member of the Home Builders Association or specialized associations as they have demonstrated their expertise. Licenses also confirm that the contractor is following guidelines for insurance, taxes and safety. These are all factors in a successful project. In addition, a reputable contractor will have solid references and a track record of completing projects on budget and on time. Lastly, each state has its own laws and regulations that are applicable to contractors. Knowing these laws can provide a distinct advantage during the negotiation process and help GC’s avoid common legal pitfalls that may be encountered on construction projects.

Subcontractor Management

As part of a project team, subcontractors assume a crucial role in executing specialized scopes of work. Their performance ripples through the project’s timelines, quality and overall outcomes. Managing subcontractors requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of the roles they play in a successful construction project.

The first step in effective subcontractor management is establishing clear expectations. This involves reviewing and negotiating the specific terms of each subcontractor agreement. It’s also a critical time to discuss and reaffirm goals, deadlines, project requirements and responsibilities.

Once contract negotiations have been finalized, the GC and subcontractors are ready to formally begin work on the project. A well-crafted subcontractor agreement establishes the groundwork for a productive relationship, clearly detailing roles and responsibilities, payment terms, mechanisms for dispute resolution and safety measures.

Managing subcontractors is not without its challenges, but it can be made easier with an established communication channel. Keeping subcontractors constantly updated with project developments, changes and expectations fosters responsiveness, enables prompt issue resolution and nurtures a collaborative working relationship.

It’s also vital to maintain open lines of communication with specialty trades on the jobsite. Their feedback can offer invaluable onsite insight and trade-specific perspectives, preventing costly rework or schedule delays. GCs can leverage a project management software suite like Bridgit Bench to create allocations in an industry-standard Gantt chart format and keep everyone on the same page.

As the project progresses, monitoring subcontractors is essential to safeguarding both the GC and the hiring company’s financial interests. Subcontractors’ costs often exceed the budgeted amounts and can lead to cost overruns. Regularly assessing actual costs versus the projected ones identifies these overruns early and enables a timely response to address them.

Effective subcontractor management is a delicate process, one that focuses on fostering relationships and ensuring compliance. Mastering this art elevates projects from a cacophony of frustration to a symphony of success. GCs that excel at subcontractor management know when to push back, when to collaborate and how to handle change orders with finesse. This is an art that’s best learned through experience and a thorough understanding of the complexities of the construction industry.