Decorating
Update Your Kitchen with Stainless Steel Hardware
By
Sep 15, 2005, 00:59

(ARA) - So you took the plunge and have a new stainless steel refrigerator, dishwasher, range or countertop in your kitchen. Its cool, sleek look provides a centerpiece for one of the most-used rooms in the house, but don’t overlook the details.
“Stainless steel appliances are very impressive looking in the kitchen,” said Jim Frey of Rockler Woodworking and Hardware (Rockler.com). “Stainless steel doesn’t stain, chip or rust, and its non-porous surface makes it difficult for bacteria to survive. It can be easily cleaned to maintain sanitary conditions. Best of all, it’s relatively inexpensive because it is recyclable, and it looks beautiful” Frey said.

However, homeowners have overlooked matching a major appliance to the rest of their kitchen. One great way to tie the entire kitchen together is the installation of stainless steel or metallic-look hardware. “Knobs, pulls and cabinet door frames are easy to install,” Frey said. “They look great with either light or dark wood, and are inexpensive. You should be able to replace all of your kitchen knobs and pulls for less than $150.”

Particularly popular are stainless steel bar pulls. Rockler Woodworking and Hardware carries bar pulls in 11 sizes -- from smaller sizes for drawers to larger pulls up to 33 inches long for cabinet doors -- that can be positioned horizontally or vertically.

Another great way to improve your kitchen’s appeal is the installation of aluminum cabinet door frames with either clear or textured glass panels.

Rockler’s custom door frame program allows you to choose from four different styles of aluminum frames with silver anodized finish, including single-track vertical sliding doors that allow you to turn your cabinet space into a beautiful showcase. “The frames are cut to the size you request, and they are easy to install with pre-cut miters and drillings,” Frey said.

Rockler also offers cut-to-size aluminum cabinet door frames in satin aluminum. Available in 98 1/2-inch lengths, simply cut the frame ends with a 45 degree miter, slide the corner connectors into the ends and slide the hinges into the slides. Choices include three different frame profiles and either full or half overlay hinges.

Besides having a beautiful new look in your kitchen, your kitchen remodeling project can pay for itself in resale value. The typical payback for minor kitchen remodeling is 94 to 104 percent, Frey said.

No wonder that stainless steel isn’t just for pots and pans anymore. Courtesy of ARA Content

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