Kitchen and bathroom remodels can completely transform your home. With so many options for materials, fixtures, appliances and more, it can be overwhelming to choose the right products for your renovation. This article will guide you through the best products to consider for your kitchen or bathroom remodel.
Kitchen Remodel Products
Countertops
The countertops are a focal point of any kitchen. When selecting your countertop material, consider your budget, lifestyle and design aesthetic.
Granite Countertops
Granite countertops are one of the most popular choices for kitchen remodels because of their natural beauty, durability and resale value. Granite is an excellent choice for active kitchens because it is scratch resistant and heat tolerant. It comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns to suit any style.
Pros
- Extremely durable and heat resistant
- Natural stone beauty
- Large variety of colors/patterns
- Increases home resale value
Cons
- Expensive
- Requires periodic sealing
- Can stain from spills
Quartz Countertops
If you like the look of natural stone but want a lower maintenance option, consider quartz. Engineered from natural stone and resins, quartz combines the beauty of stone with the convenience of a manufactured product. Quartz is non-porous, so it won’t stain and doesn’t require sealing.
Pros
- Resistant to scratches, stains and heat
- Low maintenance
- Wide variety of colors and patterns
- Non-porous
Cons
- Less customization options
- Visible seams
- Higher cost than laminate
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops provide an affordable option for any kitchen remodel. Available in unlimited colors and patterns, laminate can mimic the look of pricier materials at a fraction of the cost. It is easy to clean and stands up well over time.
Pros
- Budget friendly
- Easy maintenance
- Durable
- Scratch resistant
Cons
- Prone to heat damage
- Limited styles compared to natural stone
- Not as valuable for resale
Cabinets
The cabinetry makes a huge impact on the look and function of your kitchen. Carefully evaluate your needs in terms of storage, style and budget when selecting cabinets.
Wood Cabinets
Wood cabinets provide a timeless, classic look. Oak, maple, cherry and hickory are popular wood species used for cabinetry. Opt for medium or dark stains for a traditional style or lighter stains for a more contemporary look.
Pros
- Timeless appeal
- Natural material
- Durable with proper care
- Many style options
Cons
- Expensive
- Susceptible to moisture damage
- Requires refinishing over time
Painted Cabinets
Painting cabinets is an affordable way to transform the look of your kitchen. Paint adheres well to wood, laminate and thermofoil cabinets. Opt for cabinet paint with a built-in primer to simplify the process. White and light gray painted cabinets are trending.
Pros
- Inexpensive way to update cabinets
- Easy to apply cabinet paint
- Allows custom color choices
- Conceals existing cabinet damage
Cons
- Fades over time
- Susceptible to chipping/scratching
- Regular touch ups needed
Thermofoil Cabinets
Thermofoil cabinets provide a seamless, integrated look as an affordable alternative to painted cabinets. They feature a thermofused plastic laminate over a wood substrate. Thermofoil resists cracking, peeling and chipping.
Pros
- Seamless, integrated cabinet design
- Durable plastic laminate
- Resists scratching and wear
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
Cons
- Limited style options
- Not repairable if damaged
- Less value than wood cabinets
Backsplash
The backsplash protects your walls and adds visual interest. Consider materials that complement your countertops and cabinetry.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile backsplashes are available in an endless array of colors, sizes, shapes and textures. Tile comes in convenient ready-to-stick sheets for easy DIY installation. Use a coordinating grout color to highlight the tile pattern.
Pros
- Durable and heat/moisture resistant
- Easy to clean
- Affordable
- Wide range of styles
- Easy self-install
Cons
- Grout requires sealing
- Grout can stain
- Tile can crack or chip if hit
Glass Tile
Glass tile backsplashes inject shiny, light-reflecting accents into your kitchen. Materials like glass, metal and mirrored tiles are easy to wipe clean. Use glass mosaic tiles or a mix of different colored glass tiles to create eye-catching designs.
Pros
- Light reflecting surface
- Simple to clean
- Trendy, contemporary look
- Creates pattern with little effort
- Durable
Cons
- Grout requires sealing
- Grout stains easily
- Expensive
- Glass can break
Stone Tile
Like countertops, backsplash tile comes in an array of natural stones like marble, travertine, slate and onyx. Natural patterns and subtle color variations give stone tile distinctive visual appeal. Use large format stone tiles for a seamless look.
Pros
- Natural material beauty
- Seamless with stone countertops
- Withstands heat and moisture
- Long lasting when properly sealed
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavy, may require professional install
- Porous, requires sealing
Flooring
Don’t overlook the flooring when planning your kitchen remodel. Today’s options allow you to get the beauty and durability you need.
Luxury Vinyl Plank
Luxury vinyl plank (LVP) flooring replicates the look of real wood or stone with the convenience of vinyl. Completely waterproof, LVP withstands spills, pets and high traffic. The attached pad makes installation quick and easy.
Pros
- Durable, scratch resistant surface
- 100% waterproof
- Affordable
- Easy DIY installation
- Wide variety of looks
Cons
- Can dent from heavy impacts
- Lacks warmth of real wood
Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile floors boast superior strength and water resistance. Modeled after natural stone, porcelain tile realistically mimics materials like marble, travertine and slate. Use large format tiles to create seamless floors.
Pros
- Extremely durable for high traffic
- Waterproof, stain resistant
- Mimics natural stone look
- Resists cracks and scratches
- Easy maintenance
Cons
- Hard, unforgiving surface
- Grout requires sealing
- Dropped items can crack tiles
Engineered Hardwood
Get the beauty of real hardwood with added stability from engineered wood flooring. An engineered core resists moisture damage better than solid hardwood. Many styles resemble exotic woods at a lower cost.
Pros
- Provides real wood look
- More stable than solid wood
- Resists moisture damage
- Many exotic wood looks
Cons
- Prone to dents and scratches
- Not completely waterproof
- Costs more than LVP
Bathroom Remodel Products
Updating a bathroom greatly improves your home’s function and appearance. Approach product selections with an eye for quality, easy maintenance and style.
Bathtubs
Choose a bathtub suited to your space and bathing needs. Measure carefully to ensure proper fit.
Cast Iron Tub
Cast iron tubs have a classic, built-in look popular for renovating old bathrooms. Known for their durability, cast iron tubs have extra deep bathing wells. Enameled cast iron resists chips and scratches.
Pros
- Classic antique look
- Roomier bathing well
- Durable cast iron
- Stores heat well
Cons
- Very heavy, professional install needed
- Hard surface can be uncomfortable
- Enamel coatings can chip over time
Acrylic Tub
Acrylic tubs provide an affordable, lightweight option. Acrylic shell reinforced with fiberglass resists chips and is easy to clean. Choose built-in or freestanding models.
Pros
- Budget friendly option
- Lightweight for easy install
- Warm to the touch
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Less durable than cast iron
- Scratches easier than enameled tubs
- No vintage charm
Whirlpool Tub
Whirlpool tubs provide a spa-like experience with powerful jets to massage away stress. The experience helps relieve muscle tension and joint pain. Full-body whirlpool tubs immerse you in water.
Pros
- Total-body soaking experience
- Customizable jet placements
- Heat and vibration settings
- Can relieve muscle tension
Cons
- More expensive than standard tubs
- Motor requires maintenance
- Uses more energy/water
Showers
Update your shower with trending designs and materials to enhance your bathing experience.
Walk-in Showers
Walk-in showers eliminate the step-over threshold for improved accessibility. Open designs give a roomy feel. For a customized look, tailor the size, flooring and showerheads to your space.
Pros
- Barrier free entry
- Spacious feel
- Customizable layouts
- Works in small spaces
- Improves accessibility
Cons
- Leaks easier without threshold
- Requires waterproofing
- No place to sit while bathing
Frameless Glass Doors
Frameless glass shower doors create an open, airy look for cramped bathrooms. The frameless design provides unobstructed views. Tempered glass doors resist impacts and contain water splashes.
Pros
- Sleek, contemporary style
- Unencumbered views
- Durable tempered glass
- Easy to clean
- Light, airy feeling
Cons
- Expensive
- Glass can shatter if hit
- Prone to leaks without frames
- Hard to get in/out when wet
Steam Shower
Steam showers envelop you in relaxing hot vapor to open pores and remove impurities from skin. Steam settings allow you to customize temperature and duration. Use aromatherapy oils for added benefits.
Pros
- Deep cleanses and hydrates skin
- Aromatherapy benefits
- Reduces stress
- Customizable settings
- Improves breathing
Cons
- More expensive than standard showers
- Raises risk of burn if too hot
- Adds moisture without ventilation
Vanities
The vanity anchors your bathroom’s style. Maximize storage while coordinating with other finishes.
Double Sink Vanity
Double sink vanities allow two people to use the bathroom at once. Extended countertops increase storage and workspace. Coordinate sink basins and faucets for an elegant look.
Pros
- Allows dual use of bathroom
- Expansive countertop space
- Coordinated his/her sinks
- Streamlines routines
Cons
- More expensive
- Requires more bathroom space
- Looks cluttered if too small
Wall-Mounted Vanity
Wall mounted vanities suspend from the wall directly above the floor. This floating look adds modern flair while keeping the floor clear for easy cleaning underneath.
Pros
- Modern, minimalist look
- Frees floor space
- Easier to clean underneath
- Takes visual weight off floor
Cons
- Reduced storage space
- Wall mounting can damage drywall
- Limited traditional styles
Cabinet Color
Painting or staining vanity cabinets allows you to customize the color scheme. Crisp whites and light grays create an airy look. Bold tones like navy blue make the vanity pop.
Pros
- Personalizes color scheme
- Allows on-trend painted finishes
- Conceals damaged cabinets
- Colors to match décor
Cons
- Paint can chip over time
- Faded stains need refinishing
- Limits cabinet style options
Flooring
Water resistant flooring that withstands high moisture is essential for bathrooms. Consider warmth and comfort underfoot.
Porcelain Tile
Glazed porcelain tile floors provide a luxurious upgrade for bathrooms. The durable, waterproof surface is ideal for wet areas. Use mosaics or large tiles with grout for grip.
Pros
- Waterproof surface
- Highly durable material
- Mimics stone at lower cost
- Heated floors possible
Cons
- Hard, cold underfoot
- Grout stains over time
- Heavy tiles prone to cracking
Vinyl Plank
Vinyl plank flooring resists water damage while providing comfort and warmth. Grout-free installation looks seamless. Vinyl plank has some texture for traction when wet.
Pros
- 100% waterproof
- Comfortable, warmer feel
- Easy click-in place installation
- Affordable, low maintenance
Cons
- Scratches and gouges easier than tile
- Lacks high-end look of stone
- Seams visible on close inspection
Radiant Heated Floors
Radiant heated floors turn tile and stone surfaces into toasty-warm floors. Heating wires beneath the floor heat from below. Programmable thermostats control the temperature.
Pros
- Warm, cozy floors
- Programmable temperature
- Works with tile/stone materials
- Comfortable underfoot
Cons
- More expensive to install
- Only works with specific materials
- Can overheat if not programmed correctly
Best Practices for Product Selection
Follow these tips when evaluating products for your kitchen or bath remodel:
- Set a budget and stick to it. Determine what you can realistically afford before falling in love with high-end materials.
- Prioritize key elements with the biggest impact or that you interact with most, like counters or cabinets. Save on backend items like plumbing.
- Don’t overlook lighting. Well-designed lighting transforms the space.
- Select low-maintenance materials that hold up to moisture and don’t require frequent sealing or refinishing.
- Think long-term. Choose classic looks and quality materials that appeal to future buyers.
- Order samples to get a feel for the product’s look, durability and ease of maintenance.
- Read reviews and ask for referrals to research real customer experiences with the product’s quality and vendor.
- Hire professionals for complex installations like electrical, plumbing and tile work.
Frequently Asked Questions About Kitchen and Bathroom Remodel Products
- What countertop materials are best for kitchens? The best countertop materials for kitchens are granite, quartz and solid surface materials like Corian. All resist scratches, stains and heat. Granite is most durable, while quartz requires less maintenance without regular sealing.
- What is the most popular backsplash for kitchens? Subway tile and ceramic mosaic tile are today’s most popular backsplash materials. Available in endless colors and arrangements, tile provides an affordable way to add personality. Glass, metal and stone tile are also trending.
- What flooring works best in bathrooms? Porcelain and ceramic tile are best for bathroom floors. The waterproof, durable material withstands moisture and daily wear. For warmth underfoot, consider vinyl plank flooring. Buy vinyl planks with strong wear layers rated for bathrooms.
- What type of bathtub should I choose? The type of bathtub depends on your space and preferences. Cast iron tubs offer a vintage look built to last decades. Acrylic and fiberglass tubs provide affordability and easy maintenance. Air tubs provide a spa-like soaking experience. Measure carefully.
- Should I get a walk-in shower or tub/shower combo? Walk-in showers save space and feel roomier than tub/shower combos. But tubs allow bathing kids or soaking sore muscles. If space is limited, walk-in showers optimize use. Make sure to waterproof extensively.
- How do I choose new cabinets for my kitchen? The key factors for new kitchen cabinets are material, style, color/finish and functionality. Determine your budget and preferred look – traditional, contemporary or in-between. Visit home centers to review options in person.
- What should I know about installing new flooring? Consider moisture resistance, durability and comfort underfoot for new floors. Ceramic tile performs best but requires professional installation. Luxury vinyl plank floors are DIY friendly, affordable and waterproof. Make sure your floor is level before installing.
Hopefully this detailed article gives you a great overview of the product options to consider for your kitchen or bath remodel. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of each material and tailor choices to your needs and style. With proper planning, you can create a beautiful updated living space within your budget.
In Conclusion
The key to successful kitchen and bathroom remodels is choosing high-quality, durable products suited to your needs, budget and lifestyle. Take time to carefully evaluate options—don’t just default to the cheapest materials. With appropriate planning, your remodeled space will provide enjoyment for many years to come. Consult showroom specialists and read reviews to select the best sink, tub, flooring and other items for your home and family. The splurge is worth it for extra durability, easy cleaning