Tag: kitchen

Choosing the Best Kitchen Paint

Aug 16, 2019

Choosing the Best Kitchen Paint

  • kitchen remodeling
kitchen paint in Pennsylvania by McHale's KBA

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, there’s a lot of things to consider. A major consideration, for instance, is what parts you’re looking to change. One of the easier things to change is your paint or wallpaper. If you know nothing about painting, it may seem daunting choosing the best kitchen paint for your needs. Fortunately, you have the experts at McHale’s Kitchen and Bath here to help you!

What am I looking for with my kitchen paint?

For color, some of the most popular colors are red, blue, green, yellow, white, and gray. Yellow and red are both more exciting shades, while the other colors are more low-key, calming shades. As for the paint types, you’ll most likely be going with latex paint. Latex paint is highly durable and can be cleaned with warm water and soap. In older days, oil paints were more popular due to being durable. However, they carried toxic contaminants that released as the paint dried, smelled bad, and had to be cleaned with solvents.

For finishes, the best options are semi-gloss and satin. Kitchens are a busy part of the home, and the walls there will often need an extra bit of cleaning. Because of this, you’ll want to avoid a flat finish. Although it’s good at hiding flaws, it’s hard to wash without damaging the paint surface. Meanwhile, you’ll want to avoid gloss paint because it tends to show off imperfections in the wall’s surface. Semi-gloss and satin are both capable of taking a scrubbing while retaining their gloss over time. However, some of the other paints are better for painting certain parts of the kitchen. Gloss paint is best for around the sink due to its resistance to water while eggshell paint is fairly similar to satin paint.

Why choose McHale’s KBA to remodel my kitchen?

McHale’s Kitchen and Bath has nearly 70 years of experience working with kitchen and bathroom remodels. We offer a wide variety of paint styles that are fully capable of handling your kitchen’s messes. When you have us paint your kitchen, we have a specific procedure we follow:

  • Wallpaper removal.
  • We’ll take care to tape off windows, doors, and outlets so we don’t ruin their finish.
  • Also, we maneuver carefully around any appliances to avoid getting paint on them.
  • We place drop cloths over larger fixtures and the floors to ensure they stay clean.
  • After the job is complete, we will completely clean up the area and ensure you are happy with our work before leaving.

If you’re looking for expert remodeling, call McHale’s KBA today!

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Reasons to Get Kitchen Remodeling in Pennsylvania

Jul 26, 2019

5 Reasons to Get Kitchen Remodeling in Pennsylvania

  • kitchen remodeling
kitchen remodeling in Pennsylvania by McHale's KBA

Are you looking to get a kitchen remodeling? Before you start planning it out, you should know that any remodeling is a serious undertaking. You have to consider the budget, the planning, and let’s not forget that your kitchen will be rendered unusable for a good while. If you’re unsure about whether you truly need kitchen remodeling for your Pennsylvania home, there are some tell-tale signs that you should get planning.

Here are five reasons to consider getting kitchen remodeling for your Pennsylvania home:

 

Too little space

Are you finding yourself constantly low on counter or storage space? It can be easy for underoptimized kitchens to become cluttered and run out of counter space. If you’re finding your countertop cluttered from appliances and other kitchen bits and bobs, you should think about remodeling. Similarly, not having enough storage space for your kitchenware is another sign you should remodel.

 

Moving considerations

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen to appeal to homebuyers, there are a couple of different schools of thought. Some suggest you only remodel for homes you plan on staying in for the rest of your life, as remodeling your kitchen is a major investment. Others say that it’s worth remodeling for potential buyers if your kitchen is likely to throw off those looking at your house. If you do wind up remodeling so you can sell your house, talk with a real estate agent or kitchen designer beforehand.

 

Old appliances

Outdated appliances are an expensive pain to replace. That’s why many people will continue to use them even if they don’t work perfectly. However, doing this can open your home up to disaster should they fail. For instance, a faulty dishwasher could leak and slowly cause water damage to your nice wood floor. Newer appliances will not only help you keep a functional kitchen, but will also help you save energy, as newer appliances tend to be more energy-efficient.

 

Cleaning difficulties

As your kitchen gets older, you’ll often find it gets harder to keep it clean. Linoleum tiles always seem to look grimy and the grout needs constant maintenance. If that’s the case, you can make cleaning easier by renovating your kitchen. New cabinets and countertops are easier to wipe down and an eggshell paint can make it easy to wipe away stains.

 

Lifestyle considerations

There are times when your kitchen doesn’t fit with your lifestyle. Perhaps you’re part of a two-cook family but have a one-cook kitchen. Maybe you like entertaining guests but your kitchen is isolated from where the excitement happens. Whatever the case, kitchen remodeling might be able to solve your problem.

 

What makes McHale’s KBA my best choice for new kitchen designs?

We have award-winning Certified Kitchen Designers by The National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) & The National Association of The Remodeling Industry (NARI) on staff. We’ll come to your home and give you a complimentary design consultation. Next, we set up an appointment in our state of the art showroom. We have a diverse selection of good, better and best products to fit every budget. Our interior designers will help you choose all the materials in our unique design center. You can see your products in the same light that is in your home. Our design center has fluorescent, halogen, LED, general, task, hi-hats, under cabinets & natural sunlight. Call McHale’s KBA today to learn more about how we can help you remodel your kitchen!

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Benefits of Ceramic Kitchen Tile

May 15, 2019

5 Benefits of Ceramic Kitchen Tile

  • kitchen remodeling
ceramic kitchen tile by McHales KBA in Pennsylvania

Ceramic tile is a durable type of flooring that has been used by various civilizations over several millennia. In all of that time, ceramic flooring has never gone out of style. Even today, tiling your floor with ceramics continues to be a popular choice. At McHales KBA, we can help you learn what makes this kind of flooring an appealing choice for your kitchen.

Here are five ways ceramic tile can be a great choice for your kitchen’s flooring:

 

Highly durable

Ceramic tile is highly durable and resistant to scratches and heat. If you properly maintain and clean your flooring, it has the potential to last for centuries. In addition, it’s also relatively simple to repair it. If one of the tiles becomes broken or cracked from a severe impact, you can simply replace it.

 

Easy to maintain

Speaking of maintenance, tile is comparatively easy to maintain. Dirt, stains, and liquids of all kinds rest on top of the tile and can easily be wiped up. If the tile does get stained, you can use just about any heavy-duty cleaner without damaging the tile. All you have to do to regularly maintain it is to sweep or vacuum it with a soft brush attachment to pick up loose debris and dirt. The ease of cleaning also helps keep your home allergen-free.

 

Plenty of design options

Modern manufacturing methods give tile users plenty of ways to customize their flooring. It’s possible to mix and match solid tiles to make patterns or to accent them with custom designs or motifs. In addition, its possible to print tiles to resemble other materials, like hardwood or natural stones. Finally, tiles can be cut and shaped in a variety of designs, like triangles or planks.

 

 Glazed tiles are highly water-resistant

If you make sure to install glazed tiles in your kitchen, you won’t have to worry about water and other stains. Glazing gives your tiles a hard protective top layer that makes them much more resistant to humidity. This reason is why ceramic tile is used so often in bathrooms, kitchens, and laundry rooms. However, if your tiles aren’t glazed, you should make sure to seal them as well. The grout in between tiles is also susceptible to moisture and stains, so make sure to seal it as well.

 

Increased home value

If you know you won’t be staying in your current home, a kitchen remodeling might be a good idea. Newly-installed ceramic tiles look very nice and are likely to be attractive to people looking at your home. This practical and attractive flooring may cost a lot up front, but it can be a very good investment.

 

What makes McHales KBA qualified to install tile in my kitchen?

McHales Kitchen and Bath has nearly 70 years of experience helping Pennsylvania homeowners remodel their kitchens and bathrooms. We know that a big part of remodeling is choosing how the room will look, and we have a wide range of tiling options for you to choose from. When it comes time to install, our team of professionals will install your flooring while protecting your home and hauling away debris at no extra cost. In addition, all of our jobs come with a one year warranty plus all related manufacturers warranties, with options for extended warranties available. Call McHales KBA today to schedule a showroom visit and get a free estimate!

By Michelle Fadeley

10 Kitchen Countertop Options, and Their Pros and Cons

Apr 29, 2019

10 Kitchen Countertop Options, and Their Pros and Cons

  • kitchen remodeling
kitchen countertop from Mchales in Pennsylvania

Deciding on the material in your kitchen countertop is a big decision. There are a wide variety of materials with their own pros, cons, and prices. Fortunately, the experts at McHales KBA can help you narrow down your choices. We’ve compiled ten popular kitchen countertop choices to help you decide what material you want to put your food on.

*Costs don’t include labor or installation.

 

Granite

One of the most popular choices. Not only is it beautiful, but it’s also resistant to heat and scratches. As for pricing, it’s one of the more expensive stones, it can vary wildly depending on the type of granite you choose. Average price ranges can go from $40 all the way to $200 per square foot.

 

Quartz

Interestingly enough, the quartz used in countertops isn’t the actual stone you find in nature. In reality, countertop quartz is a mix of resin and quartz that allows for a larger variety of color choices. This hard-working material is slightly more flexible than normal stone, so it’s less likely to crack during installation. Despite being man-made, it costs about as much as natural stone. You can expect to pay $60 to $150 per square foot.

 

Marble

This classic stone beloved by statue-makers is softer than other countertop stones, making it easier to work with. In addition, its heat resistant, cool to the touch, and comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors. However, these benefits are also its drawbacks. The softer stone can chip and scratch easier, and its porous nature means it can stain if not sealed properly. It’s also one of the more expensive options at $125 to $250 per square foot. If you’re looking for alternatives, white granite bears a similar appearance for cheaper.

 

Plastic Laminate

Laminate has a reputation for being cheap, but low price doesn’t always mean low-quality. Some of the better types of laminate are durable, waterproof, and attractive. However, don’t expect the same durability or hardiness that stone has. At $20 to $50 per square foot, it’s definitely a budget material, but it’s still a good choice if you’re on a budget.

 

Stainless Steel

Primarily used in commercial kitchens, stainless steel is becoming more popular with homeowners. When you see the benefits, it’s easy to see why it’s becoming more popular. It’s durable, easy to clean and maintain, simple to install, and gives your kitchen a sleek, modern look. As for price, it’s middle-of-the-road at $75 to $150 per square foot.

 

Recycled Glass

As the name suggests, recycled glass countertops are made from recycled glass, pigment, and resin/cement mixed together to form a kitchen work surface. These countertops are eco-friendly and fashionable, making them good for a home trying to reduce their carbon footprint. Depending on the glass used, expect to pay $50 to $125 per square foot. However, the exact range depends on the kind of glass used.

 

Cultured Marble

Cultured Marble is another alternative for those who like marble’s appearance but can’t or don’t want to pay for it. This material mixes crushed marble with pigments and resins in a mold to make various fixtures. It combines the beauty of marble with the durability of engineered stone. It’s much less expensive than marble at $40 to $140 per square foot, but it’s an attractive alternative.

 

Soapstone

Soapstone has been used in science labs and medical facilities for decades, but it also works great in the kitchen. It doesn’t require any sealing and is resistant to bacteria and heat. It also happens to be fairly affordable at $70 to $120 per square foot.

 

Travertine

Often called ‘black marble,’ travertine is a kind of limestone formed under extreme heat and pressure. Like marble, it’s very beautiful, but it’s high-maintenance due to its softness. In addition, it’s porous, so it has to be sealed properly and regularly. If you’re willing to take on the responsibility, travertine costs $50 to $100 per square foot.

 

Butcher Block

Wooden countertops look warm and inviting, and it’s easy to clean stains on it. However, it can also require a lot of maintenance. You’ll need to reseal it monthly, be careful about dinging it, and keep in mind that it expands and contracts with the temperature. However, it can last for decades if properly cared for. Depending on the thickness of the wood, it can cost $35 to $200 per square foot.

 

Why is McHales KBA a great choice for installing my kitchen countertop?

Since 1950, McHales Kitchen and Bath has worked to help Pennsylvania homeowners design their dream kitchens. Our showroom lets you see just how our products look under different kinds of lighting so you know how it’ll look. We know that anyone can sell a product, but we provide a tearless remodeling product. We have a thought-out process listed on our About Us page, so you know exactly what to expect when you call on us. If you need someone to help you remodel your kitchen countertop, call the experts at McHales KBA

By Michelle Fadeley

5 Benefits of Installing Hardwood Flooring

Apr 12, 2019

5 Benefits of Installing Hardwood Flooring

  • kitchen remodeling
hardwood flooring from McHale's KBA in Philadelphia

Hardwood flooring is a flooring style that has remained popular among homeowners all over the country. The simple yet elegant style of this flooring makes it a popular choice aesthetic-wise. But what actual benefits does it give you as a type of flooring? As it turns out, there are quite a few benefits it has for homeowners. McHales can provide you with five different reasons you should consider hardwood flooring for your kitchen.

Here are five reasons to consider hardwood flooring for your kitchen:

 

Easy to clean

Using a non-carpet flooring in your kitchen and dining room is generally a good idea. Carpets have a tendency to absorb stains that makes it hard to clean out certain messes. Hardwood, meanwhile, is significantly more stain-resistant than carpets. All you have to do is wipe up the spill! In addition, you can clean the flooring through sweeping, steam-cleaning, or vacuuming.

Durable

Durability is one of the main reasons homeowners use hardwood floors. Its exact durability depends on a lot of factors, but hardwood lasts a very long time overall. It’s possible to scratch or dent hardwood, but it’s pretty difficult to do. Even if you do damage it, it can be sanded down and refinished multiple times without ruining its integrity. If cared for properly, solid hardwood can potentially last for generations.

Better air quality

Out of the various types of flooring out there, hardwood is best for those who have allergies. Carpets make it very easy for allergens and dust to get trapped in the fibers. Meanwhile, tiles and laminate have grout lines and an embossing where dust and allergens can settle. Hardwood gives no place for dust to hide.

No fading colors

Over time, many carpets will lose their original coloring and face wear and tear. Hardwood doesn’t have this issue, and its steady appearance is one of the reasons it’s has a reputation for being long-lasting. However, if you do want to change the flooring’s color, it’s easy and cheap to refinish it. This lets you drastically change your home’s appearance without spending too much money.

Boosts your home’s value

Hardwood is a very appealing type of flooring for potential homebuyers. Home buyers often remove carpet flooring because it’s seen as “someone else’s” carpet and has a tendency to carry old germs. The popularity and other features of hardwood flooring make it so you can sell quicker and for more. Getting hardwood isn’t just an investment for your family. It’s also an investment in the future. 

Why is McHale’s KBA a trusted name in home renovation?

McHales Kitchen and Bath Remodeling have helped people design their dream kitchens and bathrooms since 1950. Our company is affiliated with many well-known organizations and has won plenty of awards for our high-quality work. We can offer complimentary design consultations and have a showroom that lets you see our products in a variety of lighting styles. If you’re looking to buy hardwood flooring, call McHales Kitchen and Bath today!

By Michelle Fadeley

An Enlightened Eatery: Reasons to Renovate Your Kitchen

Sep 20, 2018

An Enlightened Eatery: Reasons to Renovate Your Kitchen

  • kitchen remodeling
kitchen

When you are a homemaker in charge of meals, the burning question comes all too often; what’s for dinner? Are you tired of your kitchen with its out of date appliances and look? Perhaps it is time for a renovation.

Kitchen remodeling addresses many physical construction requirements but also lifts your mood every time you walk into it. The major reason for most homeowners fretting over cooking is their inconvenient, outdated or cluttered space. However, there are other reasons to consider beyond simply the hardware.

If you are a homeowner who has to deal with the cooking part on most days, say good-bye to your dingy and drab dining space. Before you bid adieu to your current culinary space, consider the following points.

Renovate the look

While this may not be the primary reason for a kitchen renovation, this is a reason that many consider changing their kitchen. Who wouldn’t want a beautiful or themed space like country-chic, Mediterranean or contemporary? There are a plethora of styles available and depending on your budget, you can find a style that is affordable based on your budget.

Functionality

A renovation makes your kitchen functional than before. Roll out drawers, faucets, convenient sink, proper ventilation and lighting, open shelves and customized cabinets make your work easier and faster. You get access to kitchen items conveniently without any delays.

In addition, you might have appliances that are obsolete. You might have a microwave that has not been replaced in over fifteen years or a constantly malfunctioning

Conserves energy

Old appliances and lights consume more power due to their conventional make. Energy efficient lights and electrical appliances are an ideal upgrade that is not only economically friendly in the long run but also Eco-friendly. For more information on certain equipment, check out the links below.

Utilizes space

There is no one single design for a kitchen. Depending on your home’s interior and floor plan, you might have a finite amount of room. Thankfully, there are ways to remedy this problem. If you have a small kitchen you can drop a wall to expand the space. And if you have a big one, you can use it more utilitarian. If you have a large family, there can be a large demand from larger space.

Professional kitchen and bath technicians can look at the space you have available in your kitchen now and tell you how to make the most of it. By removing and relocating cabinets, knocking through partitions or walls, removing unnecessary closets, and moving appliances, your space can grow substantially so you have more space to make the most of. This is also the perfect time to figure out just how much storage space you need. With the right amount of storage, you’ll find that keeping your kitchen organized and tidy is much easier.

Ensures safety

All those loose screws in the drawer, the leaking faucet, the sharp or broken island edges etc. need to be replaced to avoid injury and loss of resource. Get them mended or upgraded.

 

By Michelle Fadeley

Signs That Your Kitchen or Bathroom Appliances Need an Upgrade

Aug 31, 2018

Signs That Your Kitchen or Bathroom Appliances Need an Upgrade

  • bathroom remodeling
  • kitchen remodeling
McHale's KBA upgrade

No matter how much you love your home, it can happen that you look around one day and start to wonder whether your kitchen or bathroom appliances need an upgrade. After all, if the appliances were in the home when you bought it, there are likely to be newer, better options available.

The same goes if you did purchase yourself but it’s been more than seven years since that time. However, since replacing requires a considerable investment, it’s best to determine whether you’re simply looking for a different look or whether you really need to upgrade.

Do Your Kitchen Appliances Need Upgrading?

Here’s how you can tell if your stove, oven, dishwasher, and other kitchen appliances need upgrading:

  • They frequently need repairs. If you’re always having to schedule repairs, then the costs of those repairs are likely adding up. At some point, you need to figure out whether it’s better to use the money you’re paying in repairs to purchase replacements.
  • They aren’t energy-efficient. If your energy bill is relatively high each month, then upgrading your appliances can help you lower it. Especially if you purchase ENERGY STAR® appliances, you can be sure to enjoy the most energy-efficient new appliances.
  • The style of is outdated. Granted, an outdated style isn’t a reason for everyone to upgrade. However, if you have the money, then purchasing newer models with a more modern look can give your kitchen a more visually pleasing appeal.

Do Your Bathroom Appliances Need Upgrading?

Here’s how to tell if your bath, toilet, vanity, shower, or bidet need upgrading:

  • The enamel on is damaged. Although the enamel on bathroom furniture is quite hard, it can still get damaged. This leads to unsightly scratches and dents. These can be repaired, but it’s often better to replace the appliance.
  • The plumbing fixtures are worn and broken. Over time, plumbing fixtures can get damaged due to overuse, corrosion, or the buildup of sediment. When multiple plumbing fixtures are significantly damaged, it’s time to upgrade.
  • The appliances no longer meet your needs. If you have a regular bathroom but you’re getting older and losing mobility, you might need a different type of furniture. Walk-in bathtubs and higher toilets are better suited to the needs of seniors.
  • The style is outdated. If you’re forward-looking but your bathroom is so ‘90s, then upgrading your appliances can be a good idea to enhance your enjoyment of your home.

McHale’s Kitchen and Bath Can Help You

When you’re ready to commit to a project as important as a kitchen or bathroom remodel, you want to make sure the results are beautiful and functional. And at McHale’s that’s what we strive for. We have the skill and expertise to turn your bathroom into the one you always dreamed about.

If you need kitchen or bathroom repairs or upgrades, give us a call. We’re ready to help you today! 

By Michelle Fadeley

Benefits of Ceramic Tiles in Your Home

Jul 05, 2018

Benefits of Ceramic Tiles in Your Home

  • bathroom remodeling
Ceramic Tile installation

You may be wondering why you should install ceramic tiles in your kitchen instead of hardwood floors. While both are great options – and we install both – ceramic tile flooring is a good option for many different reasons. Here are some of the ways a ceramic tile can benefit your home: 

Ways that Ceramic Tile Can Benefit Your Home 

  • It’s waterproof. Think about how steamy the bathroom can get when you take a shower, or how wet the floor gets when your kids get out of the tub. Consider all of the back-splash and spills that happen in the kitchen. In most places, this continuous exposure could cause costly water damage. Ceramic tiles don’t corrode overt time or rot like wood and other materials, so they are an investment that will benefit you long term. 
  • Easy to clean. Because ceramic tile isn’t absorbent, debris lie on top of the surface. Dirt, stains, water, and other liquids will wipe away with ease so you can maintain a clean environment at all times. 
  • Visually pleasing. Ceramic tiles can certainly add appeal to your kitchen or bathroom. Not only do they come in a wide variety of colors and designs, they tend to pop and add style to any area where they’re installed. If you’re looking to add appeal to your kitchen or bathroom, you should consider a ceramic tile installation. 
  • Increased home value. Not only are ceramic tiles pleasant to look at, they’re can add value to your home. 
  • Cost effectiveness. Because they are so durable, it’s a guarantee that they last longer than wood or other materials. Ceramic tiles are a wise investment – especially when you cake into consideration how long they will last you. 
  • Installation and repair. For the professionals at McHale’s Kitchen and Bath, a tile installation is a simple process. Repairs are easy too! While they are considerably tough, it’s possible for them to chip or break. One of our skilled technicians will be able to replace the affected tile in no time at all. 

Now that you know the benefits of a ceramic tile installation in your home, what are you waiting for? 

Call McHales Kitchen and Bath today to schedule your service! 

 

By Michelle Fadeley

The Difference New Cabinets Can Make in Your Kitchen

May 18, 2018

The Difference New Cabinets Can Make in Your Kitchen

  • Uncategorized
New kitchen cabinets

Your kitchen is one of the focal points in your home. As a room where people often congregate or spend time preparing meals for family and guests, it should reflect your style. Like every other appliance or fixture in your home, pieces of your kitchen can only last so long. Your kitchen cabinets aren’t any different. Consider how often you open and close them – several times a day! Over the course of several years, your cabinets can suffer from some serious wear and tear. But, with a little thought and help along the way, you can transform your space into the kitchen of your dreams. This task may sound overwhelming, but you can have peace of mind knowing that McHale’s Kitchen and Bath is ready to help you. 

When Do I Need New Cabinets?

Cabinets that are regularly used can typically last around 50 years. If your house was build within the last few years, yours may not need replacement yet. However, if you’re looking to make a change, don’t let that stop you! Here are some signs that your cabinets need to be replaced: 

  • Water damage. Most kitchen cabinets are made of wood, so water damage over time isn’t uncommon. If you notice that your cabinets have started to warp, bubble, blacken, or de-laminate, it’s definitely time to have them replaced. Warping can make them unable to open or close properly, so their function will be compromised. If you ever see any mold or mildew, they should be replaced immediately.
  • Functionality. Are your cabinets hard to reach? When you open one, does it bump into another? Are they hard to open or close? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then your cabinets are more of a hassle than a help.
  • Softening. Your kitchen cabinets should always be sturdy. Press around the sides of the cabinet box – does it seem soft or like it’s warping at all under the pressure? This is a sign that your whole cabinet system could be at risk. In this case, replacement is necessary.
  • Overall condition. If the base of your cabinets has softened, or they have warped too much, you need replacement. As an essential piece of any kitchen, it’s important that they function properly. 

Why Choose McHale’s?

We have been in the remodeling business for over 60 years. During that time, we have become factory authorized dealers of KraftMaid and Wellborn cabinetry. We have both on display in our warehouse and are ready for installation once you choose your favorite type. 

Don’t try to make these hard remodeling decisions by yourself. McHale’s is here to help, so call us today!

By Michelle Fadeley