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Steve Janks
Steve Janks


Commercial Kitchen Remodeling

Here are some incredibly useful tips on commercial kitchen design, to make an arduous process a little more straightforward.

Start by sitting down and thinking about the kind of kitchen you're going to create. Whether you're serving top-notch quality food or running a simple cafeteria, your commercial kitchen designs should reflect its purpose.

The fundamental advice when it comes to commercial kitchen design is to think about every little detail and when you've done that think about the consequences. There are so many things that can trip you up and it's just not worth taking the risk.

Remodeling a commercial kitchen has with a specific purpose. Perhaps your commercial kitchen has been around for years and needs a facelift. Maybe your restaurant has new management and the boss says it's time to change. Whatever the case, remodeling a commercial kitchen does not have to be a difficult task and Steve Janks - Construction can help. Careful planning for the safety and functionality of the kitchen will benefit the restaurant in the long run.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Remember that safety comes first. Remodel your commercial kitchen with staff in mind. Make certain that the design of the kitchen flows in a manner that allows employees to walk around the room freely without bumping into each other.

2. Give proper space for each task that must be completed in the kitchen. There should be an area in your kitchen designated for refrigeration and freezing. Consider the size of your restaurant as well as the average number of customers who eat there to determine how much space will be needed for these purposes. When remodeling, you may need to purchase new refrigerators or freezers if the old ones are worn out. You may need to increase, or possibly decrease, the holding capacity of these appliances.

3. Create a separate area for food preparation that is near the refrigerator/freezer. Production is slowed and profits are decreased when kitchen staff members are required to walk all the way across the kitchen to pull something out of the fridge or freezer. When remodeling, place the food prep workstation in an area where food can be quickly accessed and prepared. Most commercial kitchens are required to have at least three sinks. Place one sink in the food preparation area for washing hands before and after touching food.

4. Create a cooking station next to the food preparation station. This will allow for quick transfer of food from the chopping block into the frying pan. Place pots used for cooking in cabinetry nearby the cooking station for easy access. If cabinetry is already in place near the cook station, use what is there to cut costs when remodeling. If money is available for cabinetry, consider installing a warming drawer for breads and other baked goods.

5. Create a holding station for prepared dishes that the wait staff has easy access to. Place it in close proximity to a door that leads into the kitchen. Place a drink dispenser near the door as well so that the wait staff can quickly and efficiently refill customer drinks without disturbing the kitchen staff.

Improve your home with Steve Janks - Construction

Read more at the source:
http://www.ehow.com/how_6628653_commercial-kitchen-remodeling.html

August 23, 2010 | 3:44 PM Comments  0 comments



How to remodel old cabinets

Your home is where one should feel most comfortable and should find a place of peace and beauty. Therefore remodeling could help, but with the cost of paying a contractor, one must sometimes learn to do some small home improvements themselves. Besides working around the house, can be fun and save you a great deal of money. If you do decide to hire a contractor, Steve Janks - Construction can help you with your remodeling needs. Our project for this article is: How to remodel old cabinets.

Difficulty: Challenging

Things You'll Need:
Plastic Gloves
Sponges
Old Newspaper
Paint Stripper
Wood Finish or Paint
Polyurethane

Instructions

1. Your home is where one should feel most comfortable and should find a place of peace and beauty. Therefore remodeling could help, but with the cost of paying a contractor, one must sometimes learn to do some small home improvements themselves. Besides working around the house, can be fun and save you a great deal of money. Our project for this article is: How to remodel old cabinets.

When you have kitchen or bathroom cabinets that look out dated or you just want to give your cabinets a face-lift, it can be very inexpensive and fun. Completed in a short period of time. When you have cabinets that you'd like to give a facelift, all one has to do is decide what's the look that you want your cabinets to have, do you want them color painted or would you like a new look of wood. Should you desire you choose to have a new look of wood, you would go to your local hardware store, (preferably a larger one, so that you have a better selection of supplies). Go into the paint department and look at the wood finishing products. Most come in a can (not a spray can) and there are several to choose from such as (pecan, golden pecan, cherry wood etc.),

1. Choose the wood finish in which you would like your cabinets to have.

2. Then you must get a paint stripper, plastic gloves, a sponge brush, a painting mask and sponges.

Getting started if you have handles or knobs on your cabinets, remove them before you begin.

Step 2. Stripping your cabinets:

1.Place newspaper or a sheet of plastic on your floors, and under your cabinets, so that nothing will drip on your tile or counters. Place newspaper under all the cabinets that are to be worked on.

2.Put on plastic gloves, so that nothing gets on your hands.

3.Take your paint stripper and saturate your sponge with the stripping solution, applying it very heavy, but evenly. Do not allow it to drip.

4.Once all your cabinets are completely covered with paint stripper (heavily saturated) allow to stand for three to four hours.

5.Once the stripper has been allow standing, undisturbed for three to four hours, you would place your working gloves on and you'd take a new sponge and a bucket with warm soapy water and go over the cabinets, whipping them down, removing all the applied stripper. As you whip off the stripper, all your current paint or wood finish will be removed. Once all the paint or what have you, is removed, whip down the cabinets once again, making sure you're removing any excess paint or wood finish.

6.Wait about an hour and allow the cabinets to dry.

7.Put on your plastic gloves, mask and take your sponge brush and dip your brush in your wood finish applying your new wood finish in one direction, (always remember, when applying the wood finish or paint, apply in one direction).

8.Once you've completely covered all the cabinets, allow the wood finish to dry overnight.

9.Next day you will apply the clear gloss coat of Polyurethane to all of your cabinets, giving them a professional gloss look.

Step 3. NOTE: Polyurethane comes in a can or spray can; I prefer the brush on in the can, because sometimes the spray on will run.

After the final application of your clear coat allow the paint to dry for five to ten hours.

Another really nice idea for remodeling your cabinets is, if you have handles or knobs on your cabinets, purchase new handles or knobs to replace your old ones.

NOTE: Should you prefer to add colored paint and not the wood finish, you would purchase the desired paint and follow all steps as listed. The only difference is you would apply the paint to cabinets and not the wood finish.

If you follow these easy How To, steps once finished you'll be amazed and pleased with your wonderful new look your kitchen or bathroom now have.

Tips & Warnings

-Do not work near heat. Always wear work mask so that you can avoid inhaling fums.

Improve your home with Steve Janks - Construction

Read more at the source:
http://www.ehow.com/how_2129331_remodel-old-cabinets.html

August 20, 2010 | 1:52 PM Comments  0 comments



How to Measure for Kitchen Countertops

New counters can breathe life into a tired kitchen even if you can't afford new kitchen cabinets, but be sure you know how to measure kitchen countertop dimensions before you begin the remodeling project. Measurements must be exact for the installation to look professional and for your kitchen to function.

Kitchen countertops can change the entire look and feel of your kitchen, and can range in price from inexpensive to exorbitant. Steve Janks - Construction can help you with your remodeling needs. No matter the budget, you will want to have precise measurements in order to purchase enough countertop material to complete the project properly and without added expense. Here is what you will need to do the measure for kitchen countertops.

Things You'll Need:
Tape Measure Paper and pencil
Measuring Countertops

Instructions

1. Draw a layout of your kitchen, including countertop, backsplash, sink and island positions and appliance locations. Use this to record measurements.

2. Use the tape measure to measure each section of countertop in inches. Measure length from end of counter to wall or point where next section of countertop begins. Measure depth, from wall or back of counter to front for each section as well. For galley kitchens, you'll measure from one end of counter to the other. For "L" or "U" shaped layouts, you will break it into rectangular sections at each corner.

3. Calculate odd-shaped sections or corner pieces by measuring from the longest point lengthwise and longest point depthwise. It may help to envision this odd-shaped portion as a square or rectangle. If you are retaining this feature in the countertop, the actual shape will be recreated during the installation process.

4. Measure the length and height of backsplashes. This will help to assure that you will estimate materials needed (tile, wallpaper, paint) for walls behind counters correctly.

5. Figure the area of each section by multiplying length by depth. Add the area of all sections together to determine total square inches. Divide total square inches by 144 to determine square footage. Multiply square footage by the retail square foot price of the countertop to determine your estimated cost of material needed.

Tips & Warnings

-As carpenters like to say: "Measure twice, cut once" Always round up, when taking measurements. It's better to have too much than not enough. Taking your own measurements allows you to be in control of your remodeling budget.

-Do not order countertop material from a rough estimate. Enlist the services of a professional if you are uncertain of how to measure your countertop layout correctly.

How to Save on Professional Installation

If you look over how to measure kitchen countertop dimensions and decide you don't want to risk a poor fitting countertop or a mistake that's going to cost you more money, consider doing the work you can do and then have the professional come and measure and even install your new counter. To save money, you can tear out the old countertop yourself.

Another advantage to taking out the old counter is that you can reuse it in your garage, basement or shed as a workbench or sturdy shelf to store heavier things like cans of paint. If you do this, you are saving money in two ways--not paying to have it ripped out and not having to buy supplies to create the new counter or shelf in your workspace.

As you ponder installing new countertops, it's important to have correct measurements. Whether you do it yourself or have it done professionally, you'll want the right fit for a professionally installed look to spruce up your kitchen.

Improve your home with Steve Janks - Construction

Read more at the source:
http://www.ehow.com/how_4798203_measure-kitchen-countertops.html

August 19, 2010 | 2:12 PM Comments  0 comments



Country Kitchen Remodel Ideas

Country kitchens are cozy and inviting, filled with bright colors, warm textures and old-world charm. So whether you're aiming for a wall-to-wall remodel or a few quick and easy touches, browse through these country kitchen-remodeling ideas to transform your bland kitchen into a warm and welcoming space. Steve Janks - Construction can help you with your remodeling needs.

Country Kitchen Basics
The marks of country kitchens are natural materials, a profusion of natural light and warm textures and colors.

Natural materials like wood, brick and glass provide warmth and comforting style to country kitchens. Ceramic sinks, faux-stone panels and face brick walls, or perhaps heavy wooden beams criss-crossing the ceiling, can add instant country style, and should be tied in throughout your country kitchen décor.

Streaming natural light is essential in a country kitchen, opening up the space for an inviting atmosphere. Large, wooden frame windows can add depth and dimension to the room, and quickly brighten it up. If you're limited on window space, keep window treatments light and airy.

Country kitchen colors are typically earthy, rich and bright. Dark greens, deep reds and sunshine yellows make a beautiful color template for country kitchens. Bright splashes of purples, ocean blues and even soft gold’s can accent the room, perhaps in floral prints or colorful cushions. White is also used often to brighten the space and enhance the bold color template.

Country Styles
French country style is marked by rustic elements of old-world charm such as wrought iron, copper pots and pans, and weathered wooden cabinets, chairs and doors. These should accent plastered walls, terra cotta tile and large wooden furniture pieces. When planning a French country kitchen, the space should be designed as open, airy and light, as French country is particularly intended to be a welcoming space for family and friends to gather.

The French country kitchen design can provide your kitchen with a look and feel that brightens the spirit and can transform the kitchen into a room that is much more than just a place to dine and prepare food.

The French country kitchen is known for its elaborate designs. It creates a feeling of country living but with a unique French flair about it. It is a warm and elegant look that you can have in your kitchen regardless of its size.

Victorian floral fabrics and cool white and pastel color palettes are hallmarks of English country style. White bead board cabinetry and handcrafted, natural wood furniture can be accented with floral pattern cushions and quilted throws. To complete the look, bring your garden into the room with potted plants and, of course, English roses.

Cottage style is all about comfort, and a cottage country kitchen should be light, airy and not cluttered. Antiques, flea market finds and mismatched eclectic touches mark the country cottage style. A seaside theme can be created with driftwood finishes and fresh, lightly stained furniture accented with ocean blues. Or, for a cozy, wood-cabin theme, brighten the room with fall reds and sunburnt oranges and dark wooden beams.

Improve your home with Steve Janks - Construction

Read more at the source:
http://www.ehow.com/way_5299656_country-kitchen-remodel-ideas.html

August 18, 2010 | 2:53 PM Comments  0 comments



How to Refinish Kitchen Cabinets Yourself

A new kitchen or bathroom is possible with cabinet refinishing. Kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities can be dressed up, revitalizing an old kitchen or bathroom. Plus, depending on the condition of the wood cabinets, this task can be easy. Steve Janks - Construction can help you with your remodeling needs.

Cabinet refinishing is a great way to save money and still have a beautiful or unique kitchen. The cost can be minimal if your cabinets are in good shape. The do-it-yourself homeowner can save thousands compared to new cabinets, and all it requires is a plan, a little effort and persistence.

Many decorative effects can be achieved during any cabinet refinishing project, especially with paint. A different color on the doors or a crackle finish is just a couple of examples.

The overall look and feel of your kitchen or bathrooms can be dramatically changed and improved by either revitalizing the current finish or refinishing with paint or stain.

Refinishing kitchen cabinets yourself is not as complicated as it may seem.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:
Sandpaper
Paint
Knobs

1. Take off all the doors, hinges and knobs. Clean the inside of the cabinets and wipe down all the doors and frames. Cover floors and counter tops so that there is no damage when refinishing the cabinets.

2. Sand down all the doors and frames starting with the lower grade sandpaper working your way up to a finer grade sandpaper.

3. Wipe down all the doors and frames again to prep to paint.

4. Paint all the doors and frames with primer. If you are planning on painting the cabinets a dark color select a primer tinted with the color that you will be painting.

5. After the primer dries paint the doors and frames. Apply one or two coats of paint depending on desired final color.

6. When everything is dry attach new knobs and hinges and reattach doors to cabinets.
Add New Doors and Drawer Fronts with Refinishing

It is very possible to combine new doors and drawer fronts with refinishing cabinets for a truly new design. This will bridge the gap between a full refinish and refacing, saving you money and still giving you a new look.

The next best alternative to refinishing is refacing. Although cabinet refacing is cheaper than all new cabinets, it is still considerably more expensive than cabinet refinishing.

Cabinet refacing involves the replacement of the door and drawer fronts (with new) plus installing a veneer of new wood over the existing cabinets. This is done with your existing countertops in place, no need to replace them if they are in good shape.

This type of work is done by a professional and is a difficult DIY job. Refacing is typically twice as expensive as hiring a pro to refinish your cabinets. But, it is still considerably cheaper than a full replacement of your cabinets.

The cost of replacing kitchen cabinets can be very high. Homeowners can easily spend several thousands of dollars on new cabinets. This type of work is a kitchen or bath remodel and involves the replacement of the countertops.

Since the amount of work is extensive, this is your most expensive option. If your cabinets and countertops are very bad shape, a full replacement is best.

Improve your home with Steve Janks - Construction

Read more at the source:
http://www.ehow.com/how_4995746_refinish-kitchen-cabinets-yourself.html

August 17, 2010 | 2:10 PM Comments  0 comments





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