Part One – The Basics to Selecting Cabinets

Part Two – Cabinet Construction Options

Part Three – Decide Your Cabinet Style

I’m very impressed!  You’ve learned many of the great tips the Accurate Window center team provides to our clients every day.

Kitchen Cabinets: Wood, Metal, or Laminate?  Let’s compare each….

WOODEN CABINETS

If you took advantage of my last blog, figuring out your cabinet style, I’m sure you noticed Denver kitchen cabinet stores’ selection will always be largely made of wooden cabinets.

- APPEARANCE

Wood of course comes in a limitless selection of colors, finishes and styles.  But humidity causes wood cabinets to warp over time, even in the semi-desert climate of Denver. Kitchen cabinets can preserve longer with a good ventilation system.

- CLEANING

Wood is fairly forgiving of smudges and scratches with the right care.

- DURABILITY

Wood varies in durability.  For a high-traffic kitchen, I recommend cherry, hickory, oak, or hard maple.

- COST

Prices range from the expensive custom wooden cabinets to the very affordable stock cabinets (check out my blog for more details).

METAL CABINETS

- APPEARANCE

For a modern-looking kitchen, metal is the way to go!  To avoid an industrial kitchen style, purchase a few wooden cabinets. As metal kitchen cabinets are made of stainless steel, fingerprints and scratches are easy to notice.

- CLEANING

But luckily metal cabinets are easy to clean (though requiring more wipe-downs).

- DURABILITY

Of course stainless steel cabinets are very durable.

- COST

Surprise! Metal is more expensive than wood.  For a more affordable option, look for cabinets framed with plywood, but have stainless steel doors.

LAMINATED CABINETS

Laminate cabinets are made of layers of kraft paper which have been bonded under high pressure and covered with a decorative paper layer and plastic sealant.

- APPEARANCE

Color options are limitless.  The disadvantage is if the decorative layer can chip, it’s almost impossible to repair them.

- CLEANING

The plastic seal makes these cabinets easy to clean.

- DURABILITY

As laminate cabinets have the shortest life span, be sure to check out the warranty before purchasing.

- COST

Laminated cabinets are the least expensive option.

Thank you again for following my series on choosing kitchen cabinets.  Check out my previous blogs in this series:

Part One – The Basics to Selecting Cabinets

Part Two – Cabinet Construction Options

Part Three – Decide Your Cabinet Style

Best of luck in your decision!

Got more questions? Our team of Denver kitchen cabinet experts are available for questions Contact our Accurate Window staff online.  Or see sample of our selection of cabinets.

Feel free to call (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

This quote just made me laugh.  Mr. Stallone takes a more “Rambo” attitude about home décor, but he has a point.  Selecting furnishings you don’t enjoy can create a consistent irritation (or even torment) in your home.  Especially something as critical as your kitchen cabinets!

So hear is a helpful process to help you choose a style of kitchen cabinets you’ll love!

Go Virtual Window Shopping

While you can browse the aisles of any showroom like Accurate Window and Door center, save yourself time by starting your search at home.   Clip out pictures in home magazines.  If you prefer to search online, here’s a way to create your own “virtual showroom.”

Creating Your Virtual Showroom

1. Go to Google.com (which seems to be the best for this trick).
2. Type in “Denver kitchen cabinets” (with the parentheses) and hit the Search button.
3. In the very top-left corner of the page, click “Images.”

You should now see a gallery of pictures of cabinets. These images have been pulled from websites which have the words, “Denver kitchen cabinets.” Narrow down your search further, by typing in keywords like a color or style.   You can print or save the images on your computer.

I recommend pulling somewhere between 10 to 20 images.  Any less may not be helpful…any more will take too much time!  As you look through the pictures of cabinets, you’ll see a theme.  You’re getting a sense of the style you want.  Did you select multiple styles?  Then pick your top two favorites.

What if my style doesn’t fit my kitchen?

You discovered something you love, but it doesn’t match. This is a common problem we see among our customers.  My recommendation: get the cabinets.

If style is important to you, remember cabinets are your largest and most critical furnishing!  Find inexpensive ways to help your kitchen match (new paint, wall hangings, or a table cloth). Furniture can always be replaced at a fraction of the cost.

If you’ve been reading this blog series, then you know my mantra: “Cabinets are your biggest decision. Invest in ones you’ll enjoy for years!”

Check out this blog series:

Part One – The Basics to Selecting Cabinets

Part Two – Cabinet Construction Options

Next week’s blog: Wood, Metal or Laminate? (Part Four)

Our team of Denver kitchen cabinet experts are available for questions Contact our Accurate Window staff online.  Or see sample of our selection of cabinets.

Feel free to call (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

Besides the TV, I believe kitchens are America’s most central home space.  So we at Accurate Windows encourage customers to take time in deciding on kitchen cabinets.

We covered the Basics of Kitchen Cabinets in the last blog (budgeting & etc…). Let’s focus on the construction options you’ll find in stores throughout Denver.  Kitchen cabinets need to be selected by the amount of money, time, and functionality you’re willing to invest. And, rest assured, each option provides quality and appealing styles.

1. Stock Cabinets

Already stocked at stores, these cabinets are ready to be purchased and installed.

Cost:               Most affordable

Available:      Any home improvement store in Denver.

Installation:   Minimal assembly required.

Features:       Strictly standard options for drawers and shelving.

Selection:      Limited to the most popular sizes, finishes and materials.

*Expect to purchase filler strips to disguise spaces between your cabinets and walls.

2. Semi-custom Cabinets

The middle child of the options, these cabinets can be modified for your kitchen’s shape and your taste.

Cost:               Middle price.

Available:      Some home improvement stores and cabinet suppliers.

Installation:   Orders must be placed, requiring some wait time.

Features:       Many unique options available (e.g. drawers with slide-outs, etc…)

Selection:      A wider array of sizes, materials, and finishes.

3. Custom-made Cabinets

Want to maximize your kitchen and wow the crowd? Then this is your option

Cost:               Largest investment.

Available:      Only at cabinet suppliers.

Installation:   Requires more wait time and perhaps special installation.

Style:             Unlimited unique features (e.g. drawers with slide-outs, etc…)

Selection:      You can choose from nearly any material or finish possible.

Give yourself time when considering the best option for you.  Don’t be afraid to look at higher priced cabinets. Remember, kitchen cabinets are the most integral feature of your kitchen.

A disappointing Super Bowl is tough to endure, but the daily reminder your kitchen cabinets weren’t your favorite choice is harder!

Custom design can be affordable! Our team of Denver kitchen cabinet experts can provide more details. Contact our Accurate Window staff online.  Or see samples of our selection of cabinets.

Call us at (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

Here are a few tips we recommend to customers wanting to save time and money.

Tip #1:  Knowing is Half the Battle…Start with Durability & Functionality

Consider the durability and functionality of the cabinets before appearance and cost.  It’ll narrow down your choices (and avoid any regrets in your selection down the road).  So ask yourself:

1. Durability: How active is my kitchen?
   A family with countless openings and closing of doors should purchase very durable cabinets.
2. Storage:  What do you store in your kitchen?
   Cooking-lovers have lots of large cookware and appliances. So know how many drawers, shelves, and big cabinets you’ll need (plus a little extra cabinet space).
3. Usage: How do you use your kitchen?
   If the space also serves as a “family office” or your gathering place for parties, keep this in mind as you plan the layout.

Tip #2: Be Prepared…Cabinets are the Biggest Expense for a Kitchen!

Surprised? Of all kitchen furnishings, cabinets will be your largest investment.  50-70% of the cost of the kitchen is usually devoted to cabinets.  So if you’re on a budget, I recommend you select the cabinets first.

Tip #3: Cabinet Mechanics 101…Selecting Components & Dimensions

Knowing these details ahead of time will also save you time and money.  While standard components are adequate, if you need extra durable cabinets, then go for the best components.

Drawer joints:     Standard = Stapled                 Best = Dovetailed  (Drawers should extend completely with self-closing glides able to hold 75 pounds.)

Doors joints:       Standard = Non-interlocked   Best = Fitted mortised   (Door frames should be 3/4-inch thick with 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick sides.)

Shelves:             Standard = Solid Wood           Best = Veneer-Covered Plywood  (Shelves should be 3/4-inch thick.)

These tips can kick start your search for the right cabinets.  In Denver, kitchen cabinets experts will provide you more advice, so don’t hesitate to look for a home designer or architect.

Our team of Denver kitchen cabinet experts are available for questions Contact our Accurate Window staff online.  Or see samples of our selection of cabinets.

Feel free to call (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

We hope you had a wonderful holiday season!  With extra time at home and inspiration from the New Year, re-organizing my home office is one of my holiday traditions.

Purge the old to be ready for the new!

In fact many customers come into the Accurate center this time of the year with the resolution, “I am getting more organized!”  One of my tips: consider your home office furnishings!

So you may be wondering, “Do I need cabinets for my home office?”

Here are four signs you need to make the investment.

1. You’re the king of paper piles.

   While you know that copy is somewhere on your desk…files are
   more visual than piles…saving you time from sifting!

2. Clutter is a crime.

   Your home office is meant to be a space to work, dream, plan, etc….  Cabinets can help provide you desktop elbow space!

3. The kids used up all the printer ink again!

   You could’ve sworn you bought more cartridges, but suddenly discover you’re out.  Then you deserve a supplies shelf!  A quick glance through your supplies cabinet will make your shopping trips more productive.

4. “Please don’t let guests into my office.”

   Is your office off limits during parties? Then you need cabinets. Have a place to stash confidential projects or your desktop clutter before the door bell rings!

It’s amazing how good office furnishings can improve your focus, streamline your work, and help you stay on track.  In Denver, home office cabinets can be specialized to fit your space.  Accurate Windows & Door center specializes in customized home cabinets, in a variety of beautiful styles.

Want recommendations for Denver home office cabinets? Then contact our Accurate Window staff online.  To see samples of our selection of cabinets,

Feel free to call (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

So I thought I’d address a popular question:  Wood or vinyl windows?

For Denver, window replacements should be done by a professional company.  My last blog explained how to chose two or three pane windows.  As you’ve probably guessed, there are pro’s and con’s to both wood and vinyl windows.

Wood Replacement Windows

• Pro – Naturally Attractive
  The beauty of wooden windows can spruce up any home.

• Pro – Insulation
  Looking to save on the electric bill?  Wooden windows are excellent for maintaining your home’s temperature.

• Con – Treatment
  You’ll need to treat the wood after installation and periodically.  While most wooden windows have exterior cladding, all windows need to be painted or sealed on the inside.

• Con – Expense
  Be prepared to spend a little money as wooden windows do tend to cost more.

Vinyl Windows

• Pro – Low Maintenance
  Vinyl never needs to be treated, freeing one of your weekends from a home improvement project!

• Pro – Less Expensive
  Penny pinching is definitely possible buy purchasing vinyl (while selecting efficient windows).

• Con – Not as Appealing
  Vinyl windows have a more standard design, as oppose to providing that “wow” factor for your guests.

• Con – Shorter Life Span
  Vinyl windows do need to be replaced more often than wooden ones.

So Wooden or Vinyl Windows?  Drum roll please….

Once again, the choice between wooden or vinyl windows depends on you.  Willing to invest a little time and money for some interior “pizzazz?”  Consider wooden windows.  Overtime you’ll save money from reduced energy bills.  For home owners preferring the most practical and inexpensive approach, a Denver window company will probably recommend vinyl windows.

Still scratching your head? Feel free to contact our Accurate Window staff online or at  for more advice.  To see samples of our wood and vinyl windows, Feel free to call (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

Happy Holidays!

P.S. Keep checking in with my blog.  I’ll be kicking off 2011 with a blog on “Your Home Office:  Cabinets or Shelves?”

This is an excellent question every Denver window purchaser should ask themselves.

What’s the difference in design?

Double pane windows are built with two layers of glass, with a space of gas sandwiched in the center.  Triple panes place another layer of glass in the middle of the window.  This creates a gas space on each side of the center layer of glass.

What are the pros & cons?

How to decide on Denver windows?

As our beloved state produces desert-like summers to arctic winters, it can be a tough call.  At Accurate Window we advise customers to consider their location.  Homeowners living in metropolitan areas like Denver, where the climate can be more fair, double pane windows would be adequate.  If you’re building a house in the mountains, triple panes may be a better decision to lower those harsh electric bills.

Tip about Double Pane Windows!

Every Colorado resident enjoys abundant sunshine.  So if you’re leaning towards purchasing double pane windows, consider ones with UV coating. Not only will the coating protect your home from the intense rays, but keep your indoors more cool.  It’s a great way bump up your energy efficiency without having to splurge for triple panes.

Need more advice?

As you can see, there’s no clear cut answer for purchasing double or triple panes. If you’d like some recommendations, consider calling your local power company. Also Accurate Window’s staff will provide you expert advise, as we serve over 400 professional builders and home remodelers.  Feel free to call (303) 762-1515, email us at sales@accuratewindow.net, or visit Accurate Window’s showroom.

Purchasing energy efficient windows isn’t just about saving money (but that’s pretty nice, too). It’s about helping to care for our environment.  At Accurate Window and Door, we also value window options to foster sustainability.

Here’s how green-friendly windows can help:

• Boosting Your Health - It’s sad how even in the mountain towns, air quality is a growing concern. Reducing our risk of health problems, eco-friendly windows have high quality ventilation to keep homes fresh and clean of pollutants.
• Preserves Interior Furnishings - We love our 300+ days of sunshine in Colorado, yet those ultra-violet rays are harsh on our homes. Many new green windows are treated with a special glaze to minimize solar damage to our interiors. Your furniture, carpet, wall hangings, plants, etc…will look newer for much longer.
• Reduces Noise Pollution - Your home is your sanctuary…so it should sound like one.

The latest eco-friendly windows offer greater insulation, so even if you’re living in the heart of downtown Denver, enjoy greater peace and quiet.

• Conserves Energy Bills - Colorado is infamous for having 60 degree weather and a blizzard within the same week. Green windows have the energy efficiency to reduce the havoc our roller coaster weather plays on our energy bills. Consistently keeping a comfortable home has been made easier.
• Finishes Your Home Beautifully - Most green products are made of wood, providing not only energy-efficiency, but a lovely finish to your house. After all, through your choice to purchase eco-responsible windows, great looking window frames are the least we can offer in return!

Green Product Brands

There are many green window brands out there to choose from. Finding the right product for you can be tricky (especially your first time purchasing windows). We at Accurate Window and Door would be happy to assist you. We carry a variety of brands you can explore with one of our expert staff. Give us a call at (303) 762-1515 for more details or e-mail Sales at sales@accuratewindow.net.

Take advantage of the U.S. Energy-Efficiency Tax Credit. This credit is available to homeowners for windows and doors that meet fairly strict energy efficiency guidelines. It also is available for other energy saving updates such as roofing, insulation, heating and ventilation, water heaters and biomass stoves.  The credit is available on the above improvements for up to 30 percent of the costs up to $1500.00 total lifetime credit. More credit is available for geo-thermal heat pumps, solar energy systems, and a few other systems.

Please go to http://www.nahb.org/fileUpload_details.aspx?contentID=113857 . This is a fairly comprehensive look at the energy tax credits from the National Association of Home Builders Remodelers group. It is very informative.

You can also go to the www.irs.gov website click on the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Incentives – what individuals can do – area. This will guide you through the tax credit guidelines. Call your tax preparer or give us a call and we will get you the information or get you to someone that can help.