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Maintaining Your Painted Kitchen Cabinets the Right Way

Painted kitchen cabinets provide character and color to your room while protecting the wood or other material underneath. But frequent use, as well as exposure to heat, grease, and moisture, can cause painted cabinets to deteriorate. With the right maintenance and care, your painted cabinets can look brand new for longer.

Depending on the type of cabinet being used, there are some parts of basic cleaning and cabinet care that are different from type to type. One type of cabinet that may need more maintenance than others is the painted cabinet, which is also very common in today's world.

Regular Cabinet Cleaning

Your kitchen cabinets are exposed to dust, grease, and other particles, which can accumulate over time and discolor the paint. While spills, dust, and dirt don't instantly damage paint, they might create the appearance that it's unclean. Spills, stains, and accumulations of dust and filth may also be more difficult to remove if left untreated for an extended period of time.

Regular cleaning is insufficient even in this case. Your painted kitchen cabinets can only be preserved by giving them a thorough cleaning. You might be wondering how to clean painted kitchen cabinets the best way possible. Wipe up spills and streaks as soon as possible using mild cleaning solutions, such as a solution made of dish soap and warm water.

Frequent cleaning not only makes the kitchen look better, but it also helps to create an environment that is healthy. When kitchen cabinets are not cleaned frequently, food particles, bacteria, and mildew can build up and contaminate the surrounding area. Homeowners can reduce the risk of cross-contamination and establish a hygienic environment for food preparation by keeping the cabinets clean.

Take Care of Spills

Contrary to certain common misconceptions, painted cabinets are not waterproof. This implies that spills or drips may have an impact on the cabinetry. As a result, preventing such incidents is essential. Any spills should be immediately cleaned up and dried to avoid staining and damage to the cabinet. Additionally, keep an eye out for any sources of liquid or water, since keeping these dry will help to safeguard cabinets.

Hairline Crack Prevention

The temperature in the kitchen frequently fluctuates. The use of heat-generating kitchen appliances, HVAC issues, and other things can all contribute to climatic fluctuations. Not only can temperature and humidity swings make residents uncomfortable, but they can also seriously damage your painted kitchen cabinetry.

Paint Scratches and Chips

Cabinet paint, like paint on any other surface, has the potential to chip. The most typical source of this or scratching concerns is inadequate installation, so take extra precautions in this area. In some circumstances, things such as jewelry, silverware, or even fingernails might create these problems. Your cabinets might need some simple touch-ups to the paint and finish in these situations.

Contact the employees at Swirl Woodcraft for more information regarding the maintenance of painted cabinets, as well as any of our other services, including kitchen cabinets and bathroom vanities.

Kitchen Renovation Trends

A kitchen redesign is incredibly advantageous, whether you and your family intend to sell or remain in your current residence. There aren't many remodeling projects that improve lifestyles and increase resale value more than a kitchen remodel. Replacing the cabinets in particular instantly raises the aesthetic and practicality of the room that receives the most attention and use.  A kitchen can be converted from a useful and utilitarian cooking area to a welcoming and comfortable meeting place for family and friends by adding remodeling and interior design components.

Wooden Grain Cabinets

Because it is timeless and traditional, natural wood cabinetry will always be a popular choice for kitchen design. Your kitchen will feel cozier and more welcoming with natural wood cabinets that showcase the warmth and beauty of wood. Depending on the kind, color, and finish of the wood, natural wood cabinetry can seamlessly combine elements of contemporary and classic design. For kitchen cabinets, white oak, walnut, and maple are the most favored materials.

Vibrant Kitchen Accents and Colors

There is no longer a single color in the kitchen. A greater percentage of homeowners decide to showcase their individual personalities through the utilization of striking hues. Preferred color schemes frequently feature warm earth tones, vivid greens, and rich blues. These colors go well with natural wood or accents made of metal. Personalized themes and unique textures are also being incorporated into cabinet designs and backsplashes as the trend toward customization continues.

Kitchen Countertops Transformed

A new countertop is the most often requested upgrade for a kitchen remodel. Right now, engineered quartz is the most widely used material for better counters that have a sleek, contemporary appearance. Granite is the second most popular material for upgraded counters, after butcher block or wood slab, if you want to attain that modern farmhouse vibe. It's clear that lavish kitchen trends, including countertops, will be popular in 2024. If you're thinking about remodeling, it would be wise to incorporate a better countertop into your new kitchen layout.

Accent Lighting

With statement lighting, you can create a visually appealing focal point and show off your individual style. Whether it's an eye-catching chandelier over a kitchen island, a cluster of stylish pendant lights, or even under-cabinet lighting that highlights the color and texture of your cabinets, these fixtures are ready to make a big statement.

Statement Backsplashes 

A high-quality tile may be customized to fit any size or style and has a special quality that revitalizes any environment. One of the biggest trends in kitchen design this year is updated backsplashes, which are becoming more and more common in recently renovated kitchens. Vibrant colors, complex textures, and well-placed designs are just a few of the components that these backsplashes use to improve their aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. The most popular tile options are still ceramic and porcelain. Nevertheless, because of their exquisite beauty and robustness, marble backsplashes are becoming more and more popular right now.

A prominent trend in kitchen remodeling is the design of kitchens that combine elements of personal flair with functionality, sustainability, and technology. Whether you want to make major modifications or more minor adjustments, these trends provide guidance toward a kitchen that is not only fashionable but also reflects your personal style and way of life. Our designers and professionals at Swirl Woodcraft are adept at finding the right solutions and transforming your kitchen into a functional space that stays within your price range.

Advice on Creating an Open Kitchen Layout

Currently, the "open" floor plan concept is extremely popular among homeowners. There is a growing demand for additional living space in the kitchen, which many individuals are beginning to recognize as the center of the household as opposed to merely a place to prepare meals.

Our custom kitchen cabinets at Swirl Woodcraft are available in traditional, contemporary, and rustic designs; each can be utilized to accommodate space and storage needs while maintaining an open kitchen layout. However, suppose your intention is to establish this open format in the first place. These are some ideas for making the kitchen feel larger by opening it up.

Eliminating a Wall

Kitchen additions involving the removal of two or more entire walls constitute one of the most extensive opening projects that can be contemplated. It is impossible to complete this task on your own; professional contractors and careful preparation are required. It is advisable to collaborate with a designer to assist in the development of a visual scheme for the kitchen and adjacent rooms, as well as an engineer to ensure proper functioning of the mechanical components.

Expansion of a Doorway

Increasing the width of the entryway that leads to and from a room is another easy and reasonably priced approach to make the space more spacious. This is ideal for a kitchen that could feel a little too closed off to the rest of the house or secluded.

As long as there is adequate space on both sides of the door, it is not an issue to enlarge a doorway. It entails removing the old frame and enlarging the new one, neither of which are labor-intensive nor prohibitively expensive tasks for a competent contractor. It may be necessary to relocate an outlet or switch, but this is a simple task to accomplish. Numerous do-it-yourself householders can even complete this task independently, thereby substantially reducing expenses and aiding in the renovation of the kitchen.

Pass-Through Wall

Pass-through walls, which "open" up a given space with virtually no effort and in the shortest amount of time possible, have become an increasingly popular design element in recent years. Pass-throughs, which are glass spaces or interior windows that permit interaction and visibility into the adjacent room, are ideal for kitchens that lead to dining rooms.

The pass-through is advantageous because renovations are limited to the upper portions of the wall. Generally, base cabinetry and basins can be left entirely undisturbed throughout this renovation, resulting in a substantial reduction in expenses. Additionally, installation of even the largest pass-throughs, even those situated on load-bearing walls, is a straightforward process.

Contact the experts at Swirl Woodcraft right away for more information on custom cabinetry and kitchen remodel options, as well as for suggestions on how to create an open-concept kitchen.

Rustic or Contemporary Bathroom Vanity?

The bathroom, often considered a sanctuary within the home, becomes a canvas upon which the dichotomy of rustic and contemporary design is painted. Which direction should you go? Either way, Swirl Woodcraft can help.

Rustic and contemporary, two distinct design languages, vie for attention, each offering a unique perspective on what a bathroom sanctuary should embody. The decision to go rustic or contemporary in the creation of a bathroom vanity is not merely a choice of aesthetics; it's an exploration of lifestyle, personality, and the desired ambiance within the intimate space of a bathroom.

A Charming Throwback

The allure of rustic design lies in its celebration of the organic and the time-worn. It beckons with the warmth of natural materials, invoking a sense of history and authenticity. Rustic bathroom vanities, crafted from reclaimed wood or adorned with distressed finishes, become storytellers in their own right. They bear the marks of time, each imperfection a testament to the journey of the materials they are composed of.

Choosing to embrace rustic allure in a bathroom vanity is an ode to simplicity and the beauty found in imperfection. The wood, weathered and seasoned, whispers tales of bygone eras, infusing the space with a timeless charm. Knots, grains, and variations in color become the brushstrokes of a rustic masterpiece, creating a connection to nature within the confines of the bathroom.

New and Modern

In contrast, the contemporary bathroom vanity emerges as a symbol of sleek sophistication and modernity. Clean lines, minimalist design, and a focus on functionality define the contemporary aesthetic. The allure lies in the marriage of form and function, where every element serves a purpose without sacrificing style. Contemporary design beckons with its uncluttered, streamlined appeal, providing a canvas for a range of materials, from sleek metals to glossy surfaces.

Opting for a contemporary bathroom vanity invites a sense of order and efficiency into the bathroom space. Smooth surfaces, often devoid of intricate detailing, create an ambiance of simplicity and elegance. The contemporary aesthetic, marked by a preference for neutral tones and a monochromatic palette, offers a canvas for personalization through accessories and accents.

A Tough Decision

The choice between rustic and contemporary bathroom vanities extends beyond a mere aesthetic preference; it becomes a reflection of the homeowner's lifestyle and sensibilities. Rustic design, with its embrace of the raw and the weathered, appeals to those who seek a connection to tradition and a sense of nostalgia. It's an invitation to slow down, to appreciate the craftsmanship of bygone eras, and to bask in the warmth of natural elements.

Conversely, the contemporary aesthetic resonates with those who embrace the dynamism of modern living. It's a nod to the present and the future, where functionality and visual harmony coexist. The clean lines and uncluttered spaces characteristic of contemporary design cater to individuals who prioritize efficiency without compromising on style.

What Do You Want Your Oasis to Be?

The decision-making process between rustic and contemporary bathroom vanities becomes a journey of introspection. It prompts homeowners to consider the role of the bathroom within their daily lives and the ambiance they wish to curate. Is the bathroom a sanctuary for moments of quiet reflection, a space where the past converges with the present in a rustic embrace? Or is it a modern retreat, a haven of efficiency and contemporary elegance?

As the homeowner contemplates this dichotomy, the materials chosen for the bathroom vanity become pivotal. Reclaimed wood, with its characterful imperfections, becomes the protagonist in the rustic narrative. Its grains and knots tell a story, inviting touch and admiration. On the contemporary stage, materials like sleek marble, quartz, or high-gloss finishes take center stage. Their smooth surfaces and understated elegance contribute to the overall sleekness of the contemporary aesthetic.

In the Details

Hardware and accessories play a supporting role in this design drama. Rustic bathroom vanities find companionship in wrought iron, vintage faucets, and artisanal handles. These elements add to the narrative of a space imbued with a sense of history. In the contemporary realm, the focus shifts to polished chrome, brushed nickel, or matte black finishes. These accents are the punctuation marks in a narrative of clean lines and modern sophistication.

In this exploration of rustic and contemporary design for bathroom vanities, there is no right or wrong choice. It's a matter of personal resonance, a decision that encapsulates the homeowner's unique style and vision for the space. The bathroom, once a utilitarian corner of the home, becomes a canvas for self-expression, a haven where design choices echo the essence of those who inhabit it.

As homeowners embark on the journey of choosing between rustic and contemporary bathroom vanities, they are not merely selecting pieces of furniture; they are curating the ambiance of a space that holds moments of solitude, rituals of self-care, and the ebb and flow of daily life. Whether the choice leans towards the weathered charm of rustic design or the sleek allure of contemporary aesthetics, the bathroom vanity becomes a storyteller in the larger narrative of home design, reflecting the homeowner's aesthetic sensibilities and creating a sanctuary that resonates with their soul. To find your perfect approach, contact Swirl Woodcraft today.

Winter Fireplace Mantel Upgrades

Winter embodies a unique charm, inviting us to seek solace within the walls of our homes. It’s a season of cocooning, of embracing the intimate allure of indoor spaces. Amidst this cozy retreat, the fireplace stands as a beacon of warmth, casting its gentle glow and radiating comfort—and Swirl Woodcraft can help you upgrade the heart of your home. Enhancing this focal point with a carefully chosen mantel elevates the ambiance, transforming the fireplace into a masterpiece of design and functionality. The mantel, much like a frame to a painting, accentuates the beauty of the fireplace, giving it a refined elegance that echoes the sophistication of the winter season.

Winter, with its crisp air and ethereal beauty, encourages moments of reflection and intentionality. It’s a season where we ponder the essence of our living spaces, seeking to infuse them with personal style and character. The fireplace mantel, as a canvas of creativity, allows homeowners to express their unique tastes and preferences. Whether it’s a rustic wooden mantel that exudes warmth or a sleek, modern design that echoes contemporary aesthetics, the mantel becomes a statement piece, reflecting the homeowner’s personality and vision. Winter, with its contemplative ambiance, provides the ideal backdrop for such intentional design choices, allowing homeowners to craft spaces that resonate with their soul.

Embracing Tradition: A Time-Honored Ritual

Throughout history, fireplaces have been the heart of homes, places where families gather and traditions are nurtured. The act of installing or upgrading a fireplace mantel carries a sense of tradition, a ritual that connects us to our roots while embracing modern design sensibilities. In winter, when the crackling fire and the flickering flames cast enchanting shadows on the walls, the mantel becomes a natural extension of this time-honored tradition. It’s a homage to the hearths of yesteryears, infused with contemporary elegance. The process of selecting the perfect mantel and witnessing its installation becomes a cherished tradition in itself, a testament to the enduring allure of fireplace-centered gatherings.

A well-chosen fireplace mantel not only adds aesthetic appeal but also serves practical functions. It provides a surface for displaying cherished mementos, framed photographs, or art pieces, creating a visual narrative that reflects the homeowner’s story. During winter, when the fireplace becomes a focal point for family gatherings and cozy evenings, this functional aspect of the mantel comes to the forefront. It becomes a stage for holiday decorations, a perch for glowing candles, and a showcase for seasonal blooms. The synergy between beauty and utility transforms the mantel into a seamless blend of form and function, enhancing the overall appeal of the fireplace.

The Timeless Elegance of Winter Mantel Upgrades

As winter weaves its magic, transforming the world into a wonderland of frost and serenity, the fireplace mantel emerges as a canvas of creativity and warmth. It’s a chance to embrace the season’s charm, infusing our homes with elegance and comfort. The ritual of installing or upgrading a fireplace mantel becomes a celebration of tradition, design, and functionality. It’s a reflection of our unique style, a testament to our appreciation for the timeless allure of the hearth.

In the quiet moments of winter, as the fireplace crackles and the mantel shines with carefully curated treasures, we find ourselves enveloped in an ambiance that transcends time. It’s a sanctuary where generations meet, where stories are passed down, and where the essence of winter finds its perfect expression. With each flicker of the flame and each thoughtful choice in mantel design, we celebrate not just the season but the enduring elegance of home – a haven that welcomes us with open arms, reminding us of the beauty of simplicity, the power of tradition, and the warmth of heartfelt design choices. Contact Swirl Woodcraft today for a quote or to schedule a consultation to install a new fireplace mantel or upgrade an existing one.

Wooden Fireplace Mantels

There’s something undeniably enchanting about the warm flicker of flames, especially when reflected off the grandiosity of a wooden fireplace mantle. In the world of interior design, where trends come and go, the enduring appeal of wooden mantels remains unmatched—and are one of the most-requested items at Swirl Woodcraft. These timeless structures effortlessly blend form and function, making them the epitome of sophistication and warmth in any home.

Craftsmanship that Stands the Test of Time

Wooden fireplace mantels are the epitome of exquisite craftsmanship. Crafted by skilled artisans, each mantle is an homage to the mastery of woodworking, reflecting the natural beauty of the material. Whether your choice is oak, maple, cherry, or walnut, wooden mantels exude an aura of elegance that can only be achieved through meticulous handwork. The rich grains, textures, and colors of the wood create a visual tapestry that adds depth and character to any room.

One of the most compelling features of wooden fireplace mantels is their versatility in design. Whether your home boasts a rustic, traditional, or contemporary aesthetic, there's a wooden mantel that can seamlessly integrate into your decor. Traditional homes can benefit from the ornate carvings and intricate details of Victorian-style wooden mantels, while sleek, minimalistic designs can be complemented by simple, clean-lined mantels made from exotic wood varieties. The adaptability of wooden mantels ensures they harmonize with any interior style, making them an ideal choice for homeowners seeking timeless elegance.

A Focal Point of Warmth

The fireplace has long been revered as the heart of the home, and a wooden mantel only accentuates this sentiment. The combination of the flickering flames and the natural beauty of wood creates a focal point that radiates warmth and comfort. As families gather around the fireplace, sharing stories and creating memories, the wooden mantel stands as a silent witness to the moments that bind us together. Its inviting presence transforms the living space into a sanctuary, inviting relaxation and connection.

Wooden fireplace mantels offer a canvas for personal expression. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, these mantels can be customized to reflect your unique style and personality. Whether you prefer a sleek, modern design or a more ornate, classical motif, skilled craftsmen can bring your vision to life. From intricate carvings to personalized engravings, a custom wooden mantel allows you to infuse your living space with a sense of identity and individuality that is truly unmatched.

Environmentally Friendly Choice

In an era where environmental sustainability is of upmost importance, wooden fireplace mantels emerge as an eco-conscious choice. Wood, sourced responsibly from renewable forests, is inherently environmentally friendly. Unlike other materials that require energy-intensive manufacturing processes, wood production has a significantly lower carbon footprint. By choosing a wooden mantel, you contribute to the preservation of our planet’s natural resources, making a conscious choice for a greener future.

In the world of fireplace mantels, wooden creations stand tall, embodying the perfect amalgamation of aesthetics, functionality, and environmental responsibility. Their timeless allure, adaptability, and ability to evoke a sense of warmth make them the quintessential choice for homeowners who appreciate the finer things in life. As you embark on the journey of transforming your living space, consider the enduring charm of a wooden fireplace mantel from Swirl Woodcraft—a choice that not only enhances your home’s aesthetics but also enriches the soul, one flicker at a time.

Bathroom Vanity Considerations

When it comes to your bathroom, the vanity may be the most important aspect of the entire room. Not only is it the overall statement piece, it’s also the main storage area and the most used item. Installing a custom vanity is money well spent because you can be sure it will work for your specific needs and last a long time. Maximize space in a small bathroom with a well-designed vanity, and feel free to go all out on luxuries if you have a large space to work with.

Think Outside the Box

Sometimes, a basic vanity with standard drawers and cabinets can work okay, especially in guest bathrooms. But if you want to take it to the next step, consider some upgrades that will make your life easier. Our experts suggest installing in-drawer outlets to minimize clutter and keep your highly used items plugged in and ready to go. Hair dryers, electric toothbrushes, and razors can all be stored in a designated spot, keeping everything tidy and easily accessible. Another feature our experts love is to mix up the storage depths in drawers. Adding some shallow storage with cubbies or adjustable sections in with deep, large drawers will maximize space and allow you to keep like items together in an organized way. These can be built in or removable depending on what you want.

Vanities must work around plumbing and sinks, which can minimize storage. Instead of opting for a faux drawer, consider building in a shallow drawer or one with a u-shaped design that can go around plumbing pipes. Another option is placing a cabinet directly below the sink and building a full-sized drawer at the bottom.

Smart storage creates a tidy space. A custom cabinet can have built-in pullout storage for specific organization that goes beyond drawers for makeup and brushes. A pullout cabinet for a trash can, specific electronics, or laundry hamper will hide unwanted messes and keep these items off the floor. Maximize every inch with shallow cabinets for items like nail polish or dainty toiletries or by adding a storage tower on the countertop for items you’d like at eye level. It may take some counterspace, but if you’d rather hide some things away at a convenient location, these can be very handy.

Consider Counterspace Needs

Some couples get ready at the same time and desperately need two sinks, while others may have different schedules and would rather have some extra countertop space. Even though double sinks may sound luxurious, if it suits your needs more to have extra countertop space, don’t default to two sinks as your only option. Think about how you get ready, if you share the bathroom space with someone, and how you like store (and access) everything before deciding on the countertop layout.

Talk to your cabinetmaker about other options such as floating cabinets vs built-ins, faucet and hardware choices, countertop materials, and ideas for lighting and mirrors. It’s often a good idea to get the vanity design and function decided before finishing the rest of the bathroom so you can be sure everything will work well together. Contact Swirl Woodcraft’s experts to get your perfect bathroom started.

Splurge-worthy Kitchen Items

If you enjoy your time in the kitchen cooking, baking, or entertaining, you know there are some expensive items that are worth every penny. At the same time, you know which items are not worth purchasing, no matter how cheap they are. Some products have incredible, stand-out features that just make them amazing and durable, which means the higher price point is complete justified. Here are a few items that many professional chefs agree are worth the investment.

  1. A high-end cutting board. You already know that cutting boards come in all shapes and sizes, but they also come in varying woods and durability. There are three main factors to consider when purchasing a cutting board: material, surface area, and thickness. These three items impact aesthetics as well as functionality and durability.
  2. An electric kettle. Whether you drink a lot of tea or not, an expensive, electric kettle comes in handy in various ways. In addition to tea, you can use a kettle for instant oatmeal in the mornings, a quick cup of soup, making detox drinks, brewing a cup of coffee, or to help melt chocolate easily.
  3. Enameled cast iron pot/pan. These pots/pans are great conductors of heat and wash easily. The enamel protects the pot/pan from rust and makes them extremely durable. They may be heavy, bulky, and not dishwasher safe, but they’re worth their weight in gold. The smooth, hard surface is highly stable in terms of chemical composition, and you don’t have to worry about any dangerous reactions with food.
  4. Quality cookware. Pots and pans vary greatly in price, and the right set for you will consider several factors. For example, what is your budget? What is your cooking style and how will you use the cookware? What material do you want to use? Do you need a full set or individual pans? Some people hate non-stick pans while others can’t live without them. You’ll want to do a little research on what pan will suit your needs, but at the least they should be well-balanced with tight, sturdy handle attachments.
  5. A good hand mixer. Even if you have a nice automatic stand mixer, it’s often nice to have a quick hand mixer ready to go. Stand mixers can often be bulky, and a quality hand mixer can be an easy backup for when you need to whip something up quick.
  6. A true chef’s knife. Knives are an extremely important tool for any kitchen. Not only is a sharp knife much easier to use, it’s also safer. Sharp knives provide more control and accuracy while cutting. You’ve probably used a dull knife and know the frustration of destroying your food while you work away at it rather than nicely slicing and cutting exactly how you need. Investing in a good knife (or two) will never be regretted.

Whatever splurges you get for your kitchen, make sure you’re storing everything inside gorgeous cabinets and drawers. To get started on a customized dream kitchen worthy of all your beloved accessories, contact Swirl Woodcraft.

Don’t Get Scammed by Contractors

Home improvement often comes with an element of stress, especially for larger, costly projects. Quality handiwork is always worth its weight in gold, but how do you know you’re getting a quality contractor to do the job? Here are some signs to watch out for to avoid getting scammed.

  1. You’ve never heard of the company, or they have bad reviews. Some start-ups may be high quality and reputable, but you still need to be careful before hiring them without vetting them first. If their business is nowhere online, be skeptical. And, if they have many poor reviews, that’s also a bad sign. But, it’s equally important to be wary of nothing but five-star reviews that sound scripted. You want genuine comments and some proof of their workmanship. Word of mouth is a great way to find out more about a company, so ask for referrals if you’re not finding what you want online.
  2. Their estimate is drastically lower (or higher) than others. For most work in your home, you will benefit from getting a few estimates from reputable companies. If you’re truly getting the same service quoted, they should not come back drastically different. (Naturally, if you’re bidding out custom wood cabinetry in the kitchen vs stock compressed wood, you’ll see a dramatic difference.) Make sure the estimate is thorough and includes everything you’re asking for.
  3. Someone knocks on your door saying they’re in the area working on another job and they’re offering deals for quick or immediate jobs. They may also say they have leftover product from a neighbor’s job, which is not a common procedure for a high-end contractor or woodworker. This is typically a red flag, and you should probably decline their “offer.”
  4. The person you’re considering hiring asks you to get the required building permits for the job. If you’re doing substantial work that requires a permit, your contractor should know what permits you need and how to access them. They won’t ask you to do this unless you’re collaborating on the project and you’ve had experience in this area as well.
  5. They’re not licensed and insured. Whoever is working on your house, no matter what the project is, should be licensed and insured. You can check with the state to confirm a contractor’s license, and you’ll want to ask the contractor to show you proof of insurance. If they don’t have this, it’s not a great idea to hire them to work in your home.
  6. The company asks for the entire payment up front. No reputable company will ask you to pay an entire construction job up front. They will likely require a deposit and some payments as the projects develops, but if a company you’re considering demands payment in full before they’ll start the project, that is a good reason to walk away. In fact, some states actually limit the amount a contactor can ask for as a downpayment as a way of protecting consumers.

When it comes to your home, it’s important to feel good about your investments. For high-quality, honest custom woodworking in Utah, contact Swirl Woodcraft.

Avoid These Six Closet Design Mistakes

Whether you are a true fashion guru with numerous outfits or a minimalist with just a few basics, a well-designed closet is always a good investment. Your closet design can be customizable to fit your needs, but knowing that you have options can often be the reason people get stuck. Before you finalize your closet plans, here are six common mistakes to avoid:

  1. Don’t feel like you have to go for all wood. A solid wood closet is certainly beautiful, and maybe that’s your dream (which is totally fine!). But don’t feel like that’s the only way to get a gold-standard closet. You can bring in some glass doors or basketry options. And sometimes, a laminate or faux wood product can even be more durable and easier to take care of than a solid wood system.
  2. Don’t commit to a custom closet without seeing a 3D model. When you see a closest design drawn out, you may think it’ll look great. But if you’re investing in a high-end closet design, it’s important the company shows you a 3D, true to scale, sketch. The more realistic you can see the concept design, the more you’ll understand the expectations. That way, when it’s completed, you won’t be shocked with it looking much differently than in your head.
  3. Don’t assume you need to have floor-to-ceiling cabinetry. Although this does create a high-end look, sometimes it’s not always practical to have cabinets, drawers, and shelving taking up all the floor space and up to the ceiling. Consider leaving some floor space open for baskets or temporary items, and you may enjoy some open top shelf space to store items like books, laundry tools (like irons or steamers) that you can easily move around.
  4. Don’t get a closet system that won’t adjust. Beautiful custom closets should still leave room for adjustments. You’ll want to be able to move shelves up and down and rods that you can shift around a little. You may get a few months or years into the closet and realize you want to shift how you organize your closet. Build in some flexibility to shift your clothes, shoes, or bedding around.
  5. Don’t buy DIY modular closet systems without measuring it. Modular systems in “standard” sizes often leave funky spaces that are unusable. You probably need to use every inch of your closet and if that modular system leaves out a few inches here and there, it will add up. Even if it’s the more economical option, your frustration with the poor usage of space will override the enjoyment of saving a few dollars.
  6. Don’t prioritize looks over function. Believe it or not, you can get a fully functional closet that also looks beautiful. But first and foremost, you must be honest with what you want to store in the closet. If you choose a design that is gorgeous but don’t consider your needs in that design, you will end up hating it. Function first, beauty second.

At Swirl Woodcraft, we’ve been customizing storage solutions for years. We are masters at combining function and beauty. For your dream closet, contact us today.

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