Spring is fast approaching and for the homeowner there is one sure thing on their mind….REMODEL! However, before you jump into the remodeling frenzy you should know whether or not your remodel will qualify for a home improvement tax deduction. You may be planning to take out a loan for this long awaited project but bear in mind not all home improvements are eligible for tax credits.

Understanding Home Repairs VS remodel.

Home repairs are defined as fixing a problem in the home eg: fixing a leaky faucet or roof or bath tub. Fixing a broken garage door or a broken tile also are repairs. On the other hand a remodel consists of adding a room, redoing the bathroom or kitchen. a remodel in most cases should add value to your property.

The best source of information regarding home improvement tax credit is from the IRS. They will detail the many home improvements that will qualify for tax credits. The list includes adding energy efficient windows, installing insulation, solar water heating and various other types of high efficient heating and cooling equipment.

Tax Deduction Vs Tax Credit.

A tax deduction is taken directly off of income so you will pay less taxes while a tax credit is taken directly from the taxes owed, allowing you to pay less taxes.

Maintaining Good Records.

It is critical that you keep all your receipts for your kitchen remodel or any other home improvement projects if you are planning on claiming tax deductions. By doing so you can produce them to the IRS if they should request them.

IRS regulations can be very complex making it difficult for the homeowner to understand what really qualify as home improvements. Be sure to discuss with your accountant prior to the start of your project or consult with your local IRS office for definitive answers.
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Are you contemplating purchasing Discount Kitchen Cabinets or Rta Kitchen Cabinets for your remodel project but you are not sure about the quality of these cabinets? After all, everyone seems to be using them but the thought still leaves you uncomfortable. This might be the solution for you but first you must do your research and educate yourself about them.

When purchasing your discount kitchen cabinets it is important that you know what to look for. This will save you a whole lot of money in the long run. Never give up quality for price. It is possible to obtain a custom look without the custom price if you know what you are doing.

Purchasing Discount Kitchen Cabinets can be an overwhelming job especially when you have no idea where to start. There are important information that you should know before you make a decision, from deciding what storage you will need, cabinet styles and type you are looking for, what is the measurement of your space and your budget. This report will give you an overview to help you with making this very important decision without making costly mistakes.

What’s Your Budget?

Your first step in the remodel process is to establish a budget. Knowing how much you can spend will give you someplace to start in the selection process. Also don’t forget to include the cost of installation in your figures.

Kitchen cabinets typically will account for approximately 40% of your kitchen remodeling cost. Of course this varies depending on the types of cabinets you choose. When looking at cabinet cost you should also consider the reason for the remodel. Are you doing an upgrade so you can stay in and enjoy your home or are you hoping to sell in the near future?

Stock vs Semi stock vs custom:

There are three main types of kitchen cabinets: stock kitchen cabinets, semi-stock kitchen cabinets, and custom kitchen cabinets.

Stock Cabinets:

Oasis White Kitchen Cabinets

Stock cabinets, RTA cabinets or cabinets to go as they are sometimes called are a great way to add value to your home without spending a whole lot of cash. They are a homeowners dream when remodeling on a budget. However, they are limited in sizes and color so the installer will use filler pieces to complete the installation. They offer options and upgrades previously known to only custom lines such as full extension soft closing drawers, dovetailed drawers, wine racks, plate racks, fine moldings and many other accessories. They can be purchased assembled or disassembled (RTA, Knocked down) and typically have a lead time of 5 to 7 business days. There are many stock cabinets on the market these days so it is imperative to do your research before purchasing them.

Stock cabinets can be purchased in most department stores, local dealerships and online. The most competitive prices however can be found online. Stick with the cheap stock lines that are already certified by the KCMA- Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturer’s Association.

Semi Custom Cabinets:

Semi-custom cabinets are made with the option to adjust them to fit the space. Therefore, one has the option to to request adjustments such as to reduce or increase cabinet depth if necessary, so as to gain additional storage and proper fit. Accessories such as wine and plate racks, roll out shelves, full extension drawer glides, glass inlays, detailed moldings can be added as needed. Semi custom cabinets are the types found mostly in local dealerships and are more expensive than stock lines. Delivery times are usually 3 to 5 weeks.

Custom Cabinets:

Custom-made cabinets are constructed to fit any configuration, size, or dimension. In other words they are made to fit your kitchen space, needs as well as your style. However, they are the most expensive of the three options and can take up to nine weeks to be delivered. The advantage of purchasing custom cabinets is that you can have any size or color or other specifications you desire.

Cabinet Construction

Dove Tail Drawers

One indicator of quality in wood furniture is dovetail drawer construction. This creates stability of the joints to prevent them from pulling apart.

Plywood Boxes construction

It is important to check that the cabinet box is made from plywood and at least 1/2 to 3/4 inches thick with a cam locking or dovetail system. This ensures durability. Boxes that are made with particle board and are stapled and glued are usually less durable.

Drawer glides

There are cheap kitchen cabinets out there boasting an under mount, full extension drawer glide with soft closing features. Most of the higher end discount kitchen cabinets now come with these features or offer them as an upgrade. These features are typically found in semi custom and custom cabinetry.

Shelves

For a strong, sturdy supporting shelf opt for one that is 3/4 inch thick and made with plywood or plywood with wood veneer.

Warranty

Be sure to review the companies warrant, return and cancellation policies before purchasing. Most ready to assemble cabinets carry one to five year warranty.

Enhance the overall look of your kitchen cabinets by including accessories like moldings, corbels, glass doors and appliqués to give it that custom look. However, these can increase your price dramatically so you might want to be a little conservative on those.

Learn more about discount kitchen cabinets and view our wide selection of cabinetry at www.stockcabinetexpress.com

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Your kitchen remodel is finally complete and you are proud of such a wise investment. Most homeownerwill typically redo their kitchen once or twice in a lifetime and therefore will need to take utmost care in the upkeep of your cabinetry in order for them to stay in tip top shape. Your cabinets will last you a  lifetime once you treat them well.

Wood Cabinet Surfaces

As with all wood products, avoid excessive moisture. Once your cabinets have been installed, wipe down all exteriors with a damp cloth to remove dust. Complete a small area at a time and wipe dry. Refrain from using wax or silicone polishes. Wax polishes can result in a wax film buildup, while the use of silicone polishes can harm the cabinet’s finish.

Cleaning Agents

Avoid spray-type polishes containing petroleum solvents, as they are flammable and toxic if swallowed. Use a damp cloth when cleaning normal household spills. After wiping thoroughly, dry the surface with a lint-free cotton cloth. For stubborn stains, it may be necessary to use a mild detergent with warm water. Always dry the surface immediately.

Never use abrasive cleaners, scouring pads or powdered cleansers. Do not allow oven cleaner to touch any part of the cabinet. Do not use a dish cloth to wipe your cabinet exterior, since it may contain remnants of grease or detergents.

Everyday Care

It is important to wipe up spills and water marks as they occur. Give special attention to areas around the sink and dishwasher. Avoid draping damp or wet dish towels over the door of the sink base cabinet. Over time, this moisture can cause permanent water damage to the door. A convenient, out-of-the-way sliding towel rack can be installed to prevent this.

Care and Cleaning of Hardware

Periodically, use mild soap and warm water to clean door/drawer knobs or pulls. Thoroughly dry all hardware joints and surfaces and the surrounding area with a clean, soft cloth. Buff hardware with a clean, dry cloth. Lubrication of hinges is not necessary; however, hinges can be cleaned or dusted using cotton-tipped swabs.

CAUTION: Many brass and silver polishes contain harsh chemicals that can damage the hardware’s surface. These polishes and cleaners are NOT recommended.

Melamine and Thermofoil Surfaces

Melamine and thermofoil panels can be cleaned with most nonabrasive household cleaners. However, agents containing acetone, acetate or ethyl alcohol should not be used. Harsh solvents and/or abrasives such as turpentine may break down bonds on edge banding and should also be avoided. Ammonia cleaners should be diluted. Certain waxes may lead to discoloration and are not recommended.

If a damp cloth does not sufficiently clean an area, a non-detergent, nonabrasive household cleaner (such as Murphy’s Oil Soap) is recommended.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Apply solvents to a clean cloth and never directly to the cabinet surface. Never leave a cloth moistened with solvents on a cabinet surface for any length of time.

Care and Cleaning of Glass Door Inserts

If your kitchen contains cabinetry accented with glass doors, a few precautions are necessary. Apply glass cleaner to a towel, not directly to the glass. Avoid cleaner contact with lead, white-, gold- or copper-clad mullions.

Caring for your cabinets has a direct relation to how long they will hold up and last. Protect your investment by keeping your cabinetry in mint condition.