Knowing What Steps To Take to Achieve Your Dream Makes for a Stress-Free Process

You have awaited your new space - unique and distinctive - for quite some time. You have budgeted for the project, educated yourself on the choices out there, and consulted with our design professional. What comes next?
Many people reach this point and hesitate in taking the final step because they are unsure of what lies ahead.

In this section, United Kitchen & Bath demystifies the steps toward ordering and installation.
Our information on project coordination and installation will spark your interest and excitement in the next stage of your venture. 

 

1. Measuring
        Reveal the possibilities through measuring your space!

Every space is unique, with different requirements based on wall size, obstructions, and door and window openings. Even the location of plumbing and electrical can influence the final look of your design. Taking basic measurements helps identify key components within your room, and will assist your designer in learning about you and your space.
 

Simple Steps for measuring your space for cabinetry

1. We begin by drawing a diagram of your space, starting with the walls.

2. Measure the ceiling height, location and size of windows, all wall lengths, doors and pass-through's, obstructions, and carefully record them on the plan. Even the tiniest detail may have significance. We try to record measurements to the nearest 1/8 of an inch. (Your designer will later confirm sizes to the nearest 1/16 of an inch before you order)

3. Take note of light switches, light fixtures, wall outlets, and plumbing. These objects must be taken into consideration when establishing options for your cabinetry configuration.

4. We find it also helpful to check the ‘squareness’ of your walls by using the basic 3-4-5 rule. First, we choose the corner you are going to test. Starting from that corner, measure 3” out on to the left wall, and make a mark. Then, from the corner again measure 4” out on to the right wall, and make a mark. Now, we measure the distance between the two marks on diagonal. If the distance is 5”, your corner is square. No room is perfectly square, but corners that are very irregular may require special attention within the design.

5. Once we have completed your measurements, we re-measure the room once again. The more accurate your information, the easier your space will be to plan.

6. ​Now the exciting part, with the rough dimensions of your room in hand, we would ask you to visit our studios and meet with our design professional to begin creating your unique space.

 

2. Ordering​

You've carefully considered all the options and made some excellent choices, it's time to        order!
 

One of our knowledgeable designers has provided you with valuable advice and assistance, and you have educated yourself on all there is to know about cabinetry. You have determined your budget and needs, solidified your cabinetry components and design, and found qualified and trusted tradespeople to complete the work. With confidence and excitement, you are ready to go forward with the project!

Here is what to expect,

 

Final measure: 

A qualified professional – either our designer or trusted installer – will conduct a final measure of your space for accuracy.
Precise measuring ensures your finalized design will be accurate and your installation will run smoothly.
 

Final review of floor plan and details: 

Your design professional will walk you through the final floor plan, elevations and perspectives to discuss how your cabinets will fit into your space. Minute details, unique to your project, should be recorded on your design.
Even though our designers are confident about the accuracy and precision of all your project components, please don't be afraid to ask our designers any questions if you are unsure of anything, and double check all measurement specifications and job site information.
This is your final opportunity to ensure all elements are accurate and provide the proper functionality and design you desire.
 

Signing of important documents and placing your order: 

Your design professional will have you sign the final drawings, invoice, specifications and terms and conditions to signify your approval of them. United Kitchen & Bath will provide you with a copy of all ordering documents, since you will need to refer to them as your project progresses. Your full invoice value will also be collected at this time.
 

The order is placed:

Your final cabinetry order will be submitted by your design professional for processing.
 

Lead time provided:

Your design professional will contact you after the order is confirmed, to inform you of the expected arrival date of your beautiful cabinetry – this is an exciting day.

Ready your space:

As your cabinetry's completion date approaches, take time to prepare your space for the upcoming installation.
Please refer to “Preparing Your Space” below for our helpful tips.
 

3. Preparing Your Space

You're almost there, now it's time to ready your space !

 

You have been dreaming and wishing, planning and selecting. You wait with nervous anticipation of your project's commencement.
Renovation can cause some upheaval in your home, but the process need not be exceedingly stressful or inconvenient for you.
Adequately readying your space prior to your cabinetry's arrival can minimize the impact your renovation has on you and your home.

It's an unavoidable fact that demolition and cabinetry installation is dusty and dirty. Isolating the room undergoing renovation will help keep any unwanted debris from escaping into the rest of your home.
Here are some suggestions:

• Remove as many items as possible from the room where cabinets are being installed. Kitchen appliances, furniture, toiletries and any other objects that can be removed, should be relocated. Store them in a safe place away from the renovations.

• We would seal off the room(s) being renovated using plastic sheets secured with masking tape or painters' tape, over the doorways and openings. We will not be able keep all dust and debris within the construction area, but the better barrier we create, the cleaner the rest of your house will remain.

• Please, seal vents that are on the same floor as the renovation.

• In any adjoining rooms not separated by doors, cover furniture, bookcases and wall hangings with either blankets or plastic tarps.

• Ensure any appliances included in the final design are on site well before the installation commences.
   

Following these basic tips protects your home and belongings from the mess of renovation and allows tradespeople to work in a clear environment with ease. You can feel confident you are ready for the installation to begin!
 

Living through your Renovation

Ideas on How to Continue Daily Activities During Your Cabinet Installation.
 

It's true – construction is messy, and not glamorous. If you are remaining in your home while the renovation is taking place, it's safe to say you will experience some inconveniences. While the dust and noise of installation will soon be a distant memory, the tips below will help you persevere through the most arduous stage of your project.
 

Enduring a Bathroom Renovation

• Plan on using an alternate bathroom in your home. This will allow tradespeople to work without distraction or disruption.

• If you do not have another restroom, remove any toiletries you use on a day to day basis and store them elsewhere. Remove any towels, soaps, and décor items, as well.
  Essentially, your bathroom should be as empty as possible, and be used for only brief moments during the day.
   

Persisting through a Kitchen Renovation

• Create a temporary kitchen. Ideal locations could be your dining room, laundry room, or basement. Even your garage is a possibility. It helps to set up a flat surface, such as a dining room table or a fold-out table. Be sure the area is well ventilated and near an outlet which can support a toaster oven, coffee maker, microwave and a single burner element. Water may be obtained from a nearby sink or bathtub. You'll be amazed at the meals you can produce in this space!

• Put your barbecue to work. You will be able to prepare a greater variety of meals on this outdoor appliance, while keeping prep and cleanup to a minimum inside.

• Use only necessary tools. Make storage and cleanup easy by using the least number of cooking implements and dishes. Plates, utensils, a can opener, a cutting board, a spatula, foil wrap, a frying pan, a pot and garbage bags may be all you need to get you through the renovation.

• Favor ready-to-eat foods. Now is a good time to make use of any canned or easy-to-prepare foods that might be in your pantry or freezer. Purchasing deli products and healthy frozen meals is a simple solution.

• Keep refrigerated. Move your refrigerator somewhere safe and dry, either to your living room or garage. Place it on a solid surface and be sure to protect any delicate flooring.

• Neatness counts. It's simple, keeping tidy makes living in a temporary, small space much easier. Put your laundry room sink or bathtub to work to clean dishes and utensils.

• Treat yourself to a meal out. While undergoing a cabinet installation, why not enjoy some meals out. Restaurant dining may be a worthwhile expenditure, since it affords you a break from the noise and activity pervades your home.
   

A final thought

Because renovation can prove disruptive and uncomfortable, consider staying at a family member's home, visiting friends, or going for a short vacation. You will avoid the noise and dust of installation, and when you return, your newly installed cabinetry will be waiting for you to enjoy!

 

4. Working with Your Installer

Seamless Cabinetry Installation for a Picture Perfect Finish!
 

Along with your design professional, a qualified and skilled cabinetry installer is priceless. They bring your floor plan and elevation drawings to life through their power tools and tape measure. Yet, it's their attention-to-detail and precise finishing carpentry that leaves a lasting impression on your space. You may ask your contractor to arrange for an installer or you might employ your own tradespeople to do the job. However, often your best resource for skilled craftspeople is your design professional. They can recommend individuals whom they trust to bring their designs and your project to fruition.
 

When entrusting your cabinetry installation to our crew, you can expect:
 

• That your designer will likely include installation services in their agreement with you. Doing so simplifies the final leg of your journey towards a well-planned, beautiful space. You won't need to interview for a suitable individual nor compare quotes from possible candidates.

• The installer will be familiar with the construction and requirements of the cabinetry your design professional recommends for your project. Every cabinet company fabricates their cabinetry slightly different, creating specific installation needs.

• Benefiting from your designer and installer having previously worked together. They will be familiar with one another's work and practices. Communication between the two likely will be already well-established, streamlining your installation process.

• Your designer will review any details with the installer ahead of time, and answer any questions from the installer from start to finish. He or she will also collaborate with the installer to address any installation-related challenges that may arise.
   

If you do choose to organize your own labor, here are some suggestions to ensure success :
 

• Hiring a professional to undertake your installation is paramount. Interview a number of candidates you feel are qualified, and communicate to them the full scope of the job. Doing so will prevent any elements from being missed on the quote or later when the work is being done. Ask them for references, and if they are licensed in your state. It helps to have bids from at least 3 individuals you can compare. Avoid making your decision based on price alone; evaluate their skills, how detailed their quote is, their ability to communicate effectively, and how long they have been in business.

• Ask who will be doing the work, how they work around homeowners remaining in the residence while work is being completed, when they can possibly commence the work, and how long it will take to complete the project.

• Once you've chosen a trustworthy candidate, be sure that you have a signed contract outlining details such as the scope of work, payment, and access to your home. Review the payment structure as to how much is to be paid and when. Is there a certain percentage to be paid prior to starting work? Are tear out, disposal, and clean up included? What forms of payment are acceptable? Without a contract, critical information may be missed and the chance of miscommunication increases. Should any amendments arise once work has commenced, have your installation professional draw up a change order that clearly states any modifications to the original contract.

• During your installation, questions may arise. It's best for you and your installer to be available to each other during this time. Communication is critical in remaining true to your time-frame and budget.

• Introduce your installer to your designer, and be sure that they have one another's contact info, should any design info need clarification.

• On the rare occasion there may be a dispute, reaching an amicable solution is your best course of action. Working together to identify the issue, own the problem, and find a solution usually ends the disagreement swiftly.

A good working relationship begins with you and your installer being clear, honest and courteous to one another.

 

5. Installation 

Familiarize Yourself with Cabinet Installation to Prepare Yourself for the Real Thing!

 

Cabinetry installation is complicated, meticulous work. But with a skillful finishing carpenter at your service, you are well on your way to project completion and a beautiful, new space!
 

• Your installer(s) begins by carefully unwrapping your new cabinetry and molding. This is quite a large job and takes some time.

• He or she set up a cutting station for panels and molding to be custom sized.

• Any appliances or fixtures that sit on the floor (i.e. range and refrigerator) should be close by so the installer can move them into their final position.

• Drawers and doors are then detached from the cabinetry to gain better access to the interior of the cases. Removing them also protects them from bangs and scratches. They are reattached and adjusted later.

• Your cabinetry is installed based on the highest point on your floor. This is a critical step. The installer ensures all cabinets are level from this point.

• At this stage, your room does not look much different than it did prior to starting the install. However, critical legwork has been carried out to ensure the next stages of installation flow smoothly and expeditiously.

• Corner cases are usually the first to be placed, but every installer has their own tried and true method of installation.

• The cases are attached to the wall and to any adjacent cabinetry with screws. Your installer conceals screw heads with cover caps before the job is completed.

• Once the base cabinetry and pantries are installed, you may have your countertops measured for finalized sizes.

• In the final stages of installation, any molding, accessories, and decorative elements are carefully put in place. Cabinetry putty is used to touch up hairline crevices in molding miters, resulting in a seamless finish.

• Your installer then removes tools and cleans up sawdust and debris to the best of their ability. You likely will want to do a final dusting and wipe down of your new cabinetry once the installer has left. He or she may remove packaging materials, and excess wood and supplies if discussed prior to installation.
   

You have waited for this moment. Your careful planning, attention-to-detail, and tireless patience has been a worthwhile investment. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!

​

+1. Care

Your cabinetry is a valuable investment! Preserve its beauty and longevity with the proper TLC (Tender Loving Care)

 

How do I care for my cabinets ?
The appropriate method for cleaning your cabinetry depends on the material your cabinetry is crafted from. Here are some guidelines:

• For wood cabinetry with a stained finish:

  • Employ a soft cloth moistened with a weak solution of mild dish detergent and warm water. Avoid using excessive water.

  • Never use products containing ammonia. They will dull the finish, or damage the protective top coat.

  • Once you clean your cabinetry sufficiently with water-soap solution, dry it immediately with a soft, dry cloth.

  • Clear finish top coat provides a knock-proof surface, which does not need applications of oil or wax to retain its appearance.

• For cabinetry with a painted finish:

  • Employ a soft cloth moistened with a weak solution of mild dish detergent and warm water. Avoid using excessive water.

  • Never use products containing ammonia. They will dull the finish, or damage the protective top coat.

  • Once you clean your cabinetry sufficiently with water-soap solution, dry it immediately with a soft, dry cloth.

  • Clear finish top coat provides a knock-proof surface, which does not need applications of oil or wax to retain its appearance.

  • Special care for high-gloss finishes is required; be sure to use a very soft cloth to avoid scratches.

• For cabinetry with a thermofoil finish:

  • Employ a soft cloth and mild spray cleaner to remove any grease build up.

  • Avoid products containing ammonia.

• For cabinetry with a laminate finish:

  • Employ a soft cloth and a mild glass spray clear to remove any grease build up.

  • To avoid streaking, do not use a soap-based cleaner.

  • Be sure to use a soft cloth on gloss laminates to avoid scratches by paper towels.

Things to Avoid :

Other than the specific precautions above, here are some additional products to avoid, as a whole:

• Sponges or dish clothes – they may carry dirt particles, food bits, leftover grease, or the remnants of strong cleaning solutions.

• Harsh chemicals and detergents like strong chemical tub and sink cleansers.

• Scouring pads, steel wool, or rough sides of sponges – it may seem obvious to avoid using these products, but once in a while you may consider using them to remove stubborn stains. More than likely, they will damage your cabinetry surface.

• Silicone-based products

Final Tidbits of Advice:

 

• Clean any splatters on your cabinets immediately. If left on your cabinetry too long, grease splashes, food stains, and water spills can become difficult to remove. They may even permanently damage the surface of your investment.

• Clean your cabinets often, even if there are no visible marks or splatters. Doing so will ensure your cabinetry's enduring beauty.

• Minimize exposure to moisture, heat, and light – protect your cabinetry from damp cloths, kettles, steamers, and direct sunlight as best as you can. All of them can damage the finish or alter the colour of your cabinets.

• If you do happen to scratch or nick your cabinetry, touch-up kits are readily available to repair them.