Common-Sense Tips for Keeping Your Custom Cabinetry Beautiful

After months of planning and renovating, your dream kitchen is complete and all that's left to do is sit back, relax and enjoy ... or perhaps start entertaining!

It's no secret that the custom cabinetry you chose for your kitchen makeover ate up a good chunk of your renovation budget. Quality cabinetry is worth the investment but needs care to maintain its beauty for years to come.

Recently, Miralis released an updated maintenance guide for their custom cabinetry. Here are a few of their common-sense tips for caring for your investment.

Protect your cabinetry from extreme heat or moisture

Although quality cabinetry is designed to stand the wear-and-tear of daily life, there are some occasions when extra precaution should be taken. For example, when putting your oven on self-clean mode, it helps to open surrounding cabinet doors and drawers. To protect your cabinetry from excessive heat, bring your oven forward six inches (if possible). Excessive or constant heat coming from appliances such as an oven or dishwasher can damage the sides of the doors and cabinetry.

Appliances such as kettles, coffeemakers, toasters or toasters ovens can also cause damage to cabinetry. Once these appliances are turned on, they should be pulled forward so the heat or steam they generate won't damage the underside of the cabinetry. 

Steer away from hanging damp dish towels or wet rags on your cupboard doors. Over time, the direct moisture can cause the door's edge-banding to peel off, and may even warp or change the colour of the wood. 

Use the right tools for the job

Miralis encourages their clients to treat their wood cabinets "like a quality piece of furniture," maintaining their beauty with products made specifically for varnished woods. Found at your local hardware store, these specialized products remove the grease from your cabinetry without causing any damage. 

For melamine, laminate, polyester, acrylic or lacquer finishes that are matte, wash using soapy water (a soft soap, not dishwashing soap), rinsing with clean water to avoid a soapy residue and drying immediately to avoid streaks. Glossy finishes can be cleaned with Windex or a vinegar-water mixture and wiped dry with a cloth. Caring for glossy finishes is similar to cleaning a mirror. Abrasive products such as Javex, Comet, Ajax or Vim should be avoided.

Make minor repairs as needed

Cabinetry manufacturers understand that as careful as you may be, damage can occur and affect the overall look of your custom cabinetry. While all major repairs should be carried out by a company that specializes in cabinetry, minor repairs often require a simple touch-up that can be performed by the homeowner. Ask your cabinetry manufacturer where you can find a stain touch-up kit, touch-up markers or wax stick suitable for your cabinetry.

Cabinetry hinges take a beating over time and may need to be adjusted. In this easy-to-follow YouTube video, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre president Neil Samson explains how simple it is to adjust your cabinet door hinges using only a screwdriver.
  

Monarch's Design Team Gets in the Holiday Spirit by Building Holiday Homes ... with Gingerbread!

Always eager to flex their design muscles, Monarch's design team took on a holiday-themed design project on a smaller-than-usual scale -- gingerbread houses.

 

With no blueprints in sight, all they needed was some icing and colourful confections! Except for Kevin Samson -- his gingerbread house was held together with green packing tape.

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre Honoured with Business Excellence Award from Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade

We're thrilled to announce that last night, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre was honoured with a Business Excellence Award from the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade.

The Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade (APBOT) is the voice of the business community in Ajax and Pickering. Established in 1955, the 500-plus members represent a wide array of business sectors. The APBOT Business Excellence Awards were established in 1994 to recognize the achievements and excellence in business performance. All award submissions are evaluated by an independent panel of judges.

“As a longstanding APBOT member and an active member of the Ajax-Pickering business community, it is an honour to be recognized for our commitment to excellence," said president Neil Samson after first learning of Monarch's award nomination in July. "We are incredibly proud and humbled that our client felt so strongly about the quality of our service to nominate us for this award.”

On the eve of this Thanksgiving long weekend, we wish to give thanks to all of our clients for trusting us with their kitchen and bath design dreams.

Our Thanksgiving weekend showroom hours are as follows:

Saturday, October 11th - 9am to 5pm

Sunday, October 12th - closed

Monday, October 13th - closed

Tuesday, October 14th - regular business hours resume

Happy Thanksgiving!

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Spend Less Time Inside with these Easy-to-Prepare Summertime Recipes from Everyday Food

Looking for a little summer mealtime inspiration? Here are a few recipes that are both delicious and quick and easy to prepare.

5 Reasons Why Summer is the Perfect Time to Have Your Kitchen Renovated

After a seemingly endless winter spent indoors, there’s a good chance you’re ready to say goodbye to your drab, outdated kitchen and excited to embrace a brighter, more efficient living space.

But no matter how well you plan for the disruption of a major kitchen renovation, there's nothing that quite prepares you for the daily inconvenience of preparing meals and doing dishes in a temporary kitchen. As the heart of the home, your kitchen is more than a place prepare and eat meals; it's the central gathering place for most families.

When’s the best time to renovate? For many homeowners, the sunny days of summer make the most sense.

Renovating your kitchen during the summer months has its advantages:

Weather permitting...you can eat in your outdoor kitchen!

Polish up the patio set, turn on the portable CD player, set the table and VOILA! You've got yourself a temporary kitchen away from the dust and mess of your kitchen renovation.

You can barbecue more and eat take-out less.

Eating at restaurants and bringing take-out food home is as expensive as it is tiresome. Fortunately, the internet offers endless creative ways to use your barbecue to grill meat, poultry, seafood and vegetables.

You can go on vacation.

If you have young children, it's often easier to leave for a week at the cottage or an extended road trip once they are out of school. You may not be able to avoid living at home during the entire period of upheaval, but you can reduce the amount of stress your family feels by planning to be away during some of the "messier" periods of your renovation.

You can breathe easier!

With any renovation, there will be dust. Sure, you can close off rooms, shut all the doors...but the dust will follow you everywhere―except outside. Grab a book, your laptop or a deck of cards and head outside for a breath of fresh air.

You can clean less -- nice weather means less mess!

From the time tear down begins to the moment you sit back and enjoy your new kitchen, there is an enormous amount of traffic in and out of your home. When renovating during the summer months, you reduce the amount of dirt tracked through your house. And with any major renovation, a table saw is often a contractor’s best friend. During the warmer months, the saw won’t need to be set up in your garage, porch or basement. That means less dust floating around your home.

Are you considering a kitchen renovation? Monarch has been making homeowner's kitchen renovation dreams a reality for over 30 years. Drop by our showroom or call us at 905-686-2001 to book a consultation with one of our kitchen designers. But hurry, Monarch’s summer schedule is booking up!

Which Home Renovations Yield the Best Return on Investment?

Whether you’re renovating to meet your changing needs or trying to improve the overall look of your home, it never hurts to consider what the return on your design investment will be.

According to yearly surveys done by the Appraisal Institute of Canada (AIC), refurbished kitchen and bathrooms continually yield the best return on investment, with 75 to 100 per cent of spending for these renovations recovered at resale. Interior painting, a new roof or heating system and a finished basement also ranked high (see full list below).

Of course, a high return on investment is only possible if the renovation is done tastefully, adheres to local building codes, and is in line with current trends.

Avoid projects that set your home apart from other houses in your neighbourhood. The AIC advises: “If the value of your house exceeds the average market value in your neighbourhood, your renovations will not yield much return. But if your house value is below the average, you can recover a larger part of the renovation costs.”

Whatever your reason for updating your home, Monarch designers can help. Working with you from conception to completion, our customized design services include complete project management and the use of licensed, insured and bonded tradespeople. In addition, we offer three lines of custom cabinetry covering a range of budget options perfect for your house, condominium or cottage.

Percentage of investment recovered upon resale:

Kitchen upgrade: 75% to 100%
Bathroom upgrade: 75% to 100%
Interior painting: 50% to 100%
Roof replacement: 50% to 80%
Replacement of furnace or heating system: 50% to 80%
Expansion (addition of family room): 50% to 75%
Doors and windows: 50% to 75%
Deck: 50% to 75%
Installation of hardwood floor: 50% to 75%
Construction of a garage: 50% to 75%
Fireplace (wood or gas) 50% to 75%
Central air conditioning: 50% to 75%
Finished basement: 50% to 75%
Wood fence: 25% to 50%
Interlocking paving stones on driveway: 25% to 50%
Landscaping: 25% to 50%
Asphalt driveway: 20% to 50%
Pool: 10% to 40%
Skylights: 0% to 25%

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre -- Your Baeumler Approved Contractor

Over a year ago on this blog, we announced Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre were among a

limited number of home improvement specialists in the Greater Toronto Area to be Baeumler Approved. Monarch’s team continues to be proud of this designation and works diligently to ensure we live up to the Baeumler Approved level of excellence.

Baeumler Approved is the brainchild of Bryan Baeumler, host of HGTV's "Disaster DIY" and "House of Bryan." Baeumler Approved screens home renovation companies to ensure that their references check out and they have all the required insurance and licenses necessary to run their business. Not only does Baeumler Approved check with previous customers, but they also check with the tradespeople and companies they employ on a regular basis to ensure a company who they deem "Baeumler Approved" has a solid reputation.

In an article in the Bay Observer, Bryan writes:

“We all work hard for our money. As a homeowner, deciding to renovate or repair your home it is very important to be wise before making a decision as to which contractor or tradesperson to hire. I have always encouraged people to dig below the surface in order to ensure they are making the right choice. A few hours spent online or on the phone can save you days and weeks of future frustration, not to mention the costs associated with redoing work that has been completed improperly, or not at all. A good contractor has liability insurance, conforms to all municipal and provincial guidelines and has active WSIB coverage for their workers. You can also learn a great deal by looking into a company’s work history and reputation online and through other businesses. 

This is the reason that I have established the Baeumler Approved network of quality contractors. We have actively sought out the best builders and trades from across Ontario and vetted our members for insurance, WSIB coverage, quality of work, and reputation to ensure that we are providing homeowners with quality workmanship that comes with honest service. Our members must adhere to a strict code of conduct and we encourage feedback from homeowners about the work that has been completed." 

I know that no one is perfect and even the best contractors will occasionally encounter issues, but quality contractors communicate openly and honestly with homeowners and ensure that the job is completed on-time and to a professional standard.”

Trust Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre with your kitchen and bath design and renovation needs. Drop by our showroom or call us today to book an appointment with a member of our design team.

Kitchen Designers Are Crucial to the Success of Your Kitchen Renovation

Kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

In a recent article on thestar.com, writer Rita Zekas provides a humorous rundown of her two frustrating visits to furniture superstore, IKEA.

Her goal: to order new kitchen cabinets, a granite countertop, sink and fan hood.

How did she fare? After numerous calls to her contractor, she eventually got what she was looking for, but not without a great deal of angst and frustration:

“We pass a series of sample kitchens and finally arrive at kitchen central, where I had envisioned some kindly person sitting down with me, mano a mano, mapping out my kitchen for me. Not so.”

Instead, Zekas is told to sit down at a computer and sign in, then select items on the screen and place them on IKEA’s 3-D planner. Not exactly the helpful design collaboration she was looking for.

If you’re planning to redesign your kitchen, you may be contemplating the do-it-yourself route, as well. Before you hop in the car and head to your local big box store, consider the benefits of working with a kitchen designer.

“As professional kitchen designers, we are able to translate our client's needs into a functional kitchen design that reflects both their needs and wants,” says Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre president Neil Samson. “Monarch’s team of graduate designers have comprehensive knowledge in both kitchen and bath design, as well as construction, plumbing, mechanical and electrical systems.”

Using a kitchen designer to help with your kitchen renovation is crucial for your project’s success. Kitchen designers are trained professionals with extensive knowledge about a variety of products and know how to properly construct and install the materials in your home.

From cabinetry, countertops and storage space to sinks, plumbing and appliances, there are a tremendous number of decisions involved in a kitchen renovation.

“With little or no technical knowledge to base their decisions on, homeowners quickly become overwhelmed and frustrated,” says Neil. "A kitchen designer has years of design training and experience and can offer you their professional perspective, sharing the tricks of the trade to maximize your space and get the kitchen you want.”

Kitchen design by Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre

Here are some answers to common questions from our website’s FAQ page.

We're interested in having Monarch design our new kitchen. Where do we begin?
The design process starts with a visit to our showroom. Here, you have the opportunity to interview your designer, tour our showroom and obtain an overview of the products and services that we offer.

What happens after our first meeting?
Regardless of whether you are renovating an existing property or in the process of building a new house, our next meeting is at your home. The primary focus of this meeting is to develop a clear picture of your personal tastes, preferences and develop a comprehensive "wish list" for your project. Your designer will take detailed measurements of your home and the information from this meeting will be used to formulate a custom design personalized for you.

How much say will I have in the overall design?
Monarch's goal is to create a kitchen you can enjoy for years to come. While we do offer advice and guidance throughout the design and renovation process, the finished design is a true reflection of your ideas and dreams for that particular space. Your designer will use your feedback from their design survey to fine-tune each element of the design.

What happens after the design is finalized?
With the help of your designer, you will make selections such as wood species, door style, door finish, hardware, accessories and countertop colour and material. You can also ask your designer for advice on flooring, lighting, back splash treatments and paint colours.

This sounds like a lot of information to keep track of. How can I be sure we all understand who is doing what?
Monarch strives to make your renovation as seamless and stress-free as possible. You will receive a detailed description of all work that Monarch and our associated contractors will undertake on your behalf.

How will I know what is happening on a day-to-day basis?
Monarch will coordinate your project with follow-up from your designer and our production office so that no detail is overlooked. You can expect project updates on a daily basis. As an added convenience, Monarch clients can login to Monarch's website to view the progress of their project in "real time".

How can I be sure that Monarch is committed to my renovation project?
We want you to be our client for life and are committed to your complete satisfaction. We will be there to answer your questions or help with additional renovations long after your project is finished. To learn why Monarch clients keep coming back, please view our testimonials page or ask a member of our team for a list of references.

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre is Now RenoMark™ Approved!

Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre is pleased to announce we are now among a limited number of renovation contractors in the Greater Toronto Area who are RenoMark™ Approved.

From Renomark.ca:

RenoMark™ raises the bar and identifies renovation contractors, who have agreed to the Canadian Home Builders' Association's Code of Ethics and a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. RenoMark™ renovators understand the value of customer service, provide warranties and continually educate themselves on trends, materials and new regulations.

As an approved RenoMark contractor, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre can assure their clients they meet the following criteria for membership:

• RenoMark™ renovator members believe in professionalism. They are committed to their industry and to their businesses and are willing to pay annual dues to keep informed and to help educate consumers.
• RenoMark™ members have legitimate business licences. They do not support the underground economy of renovators who avoid paying taxes and operate "fly-by-night" and "cash only" businesses.
• RenoMark™ members are informed. Information and education are important benefits of membership. Our member contractors are the first to know about changes in building codes, municipal requirements, health and safety regulations and more through our courses, information sessions, and communications program. Local Renovator Councils meet regularly for industry updates and information exchange sessions.
• RenoMark™ members are "in-the-loop." It makes sense to hire a renovator that is part of an extensive home building and renovating industry network. Our members are in touch with manufacturers, suppliers, and experienced trade contractors. They know what's new and where to get it.
• RenoMark™ members offer peace-of-mind. Joining this association program is your sign that a renovator is concerned about fair and honest quotes and reliable start and finish dates. They understand that keeping the lines of communication wide open is the key to a successful job.
• RenoMark™ members subscribe to the association’s general Code of Ethics applicable to all members plus a renovation-specific Code of Conduct. It's all about integrity. Our members believe in treating not only their clients appropriately, but also deal fairly with trade contractors and employees.
• RenoMark™ members offer a wealth of advice. Put them to work for you in the planning stages of your renovation. Our members can offer design and technical advice to achieve designs you may not have thought possible. They are a call or email away.
• RenoMark™ contractors take care of the details. Hiring a professional means that the details like ensuring all necessary approvals and permits are in place, all employees and sub-contractors have the provincial workers’ compensation coverage, and obtaining the appropriate insurance are not only taken care of, they are readily available to you for your assurance.
• RenoMark™ members offer a warranty and after sales service. A contractor committed to professionalism will offer you the coverage you need. Under the table deals leave you no recourse - so make sure your renovator spells it out on paper. Our members will also provide you with a written list of referrals so you can check on their performance and expertise.
• RenoMark™ renovators are members of the local home builders association. A crucial first step in knowing that you’ve hired a professional.

As an approved Renomark™ contractor, Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre must adhere to Renomark's Strict Code of Conduct:

• Be a member in good standing of the local Canadian Home Builders’ Association.
• Abide by the Association’s Code of Ethics.
• Provide a detailed, written contract (including scope of work) for all jobs.
• Offer a minimum two year warranty on all work (excludes minor home repair).
• Carry a minimum of $2 million liability insurance.
• Have coverage for workplace safety and employers' liability and/or work only with subcontractors who carry such coverage.
• Carry applicable licenses and permits.
• Have access to information, education, training and professional development through membership in the Association.
• Maintain a safe and organized worksite.
• Return phone calls within two business days.

Are you planning a kitchen or bath redesign this spring? Call Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre today at 905-686-2001 or drop by our showroom. You can trust us to make your renovation dreams a reality.

Two Designer Kitchen Showrooms...Two Completely Different Looks

At Monarch Kitchen and Bath Centre, we understand how difficult it can be to choose design features for your new kitchen without seeing them first.

When you visit our Pickering showroom, you’ll not only get to speak with a member of our design team, you’ll be able to walk through the variety of kitchens we have on display. Here are two of our favourite – and most popular -- showroom displays.

This exotic veneer kitchen features stainless and frosted glass doors, glass counter tops and backsplash, as well as Caesarstone quartz counter tops with waterfall sides. For a truly modern feel, it’s finished with a restaurant-style hood fan, and a custom glass elevated bar top on the island.

A perfect example of transitional design, this kitchen features traditional elements like crown molding while incorporating several modern elements. The modified shaker doors have a step-down design and are an inviting warm grey – the on-trend neutral colour for 2013. The counter tops quartz in a leather finish. The custom cooktop area has been dropped down for ease-of-use. The kitchen also features a gorgeous custom hood enclosure that keeps the traditional feel alive while remaining modern in its finish.

See these kitchen displays and more at the Monarch Kitchen & Bath Centre showroom, 1020 Brock Rd., Unit 6, Pickering. Call 905-686-2001.