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Countertops
Countertops are, for the most part, laminated plastic,
commonly called Formica.
- The
cost of replacing a laminated plastic counter top is approximately $25 to $30
per linear foot.
- The Formica or laminated plastic sometimes delaminates,
especially around the sink and at the dishwasher. The particle board or plywood
base often swells and deteriorates in wet areas.
- Countertops
should be secured to the base cabinets using screws from underneath.
- Setting
a hot utensil on them frequently burns the countertop.
- Ceramic
tile, while fairly easy to keep clean, has a tendency to lose grout and come
loose. You should tap the tile on a countertop with a screwdriver in much the
same manner you do around a bathtub or shower.
The doors and drawers on wall and base cabinets should be
periodically checked. It is not unusual
to find a door that does not work properly, a broken drawer or faulty
hardware.
- Pulls,
keepers, knobs, and handles may be missing.
- Cabinets
should be hung with screws as opposed to nails. It is particularly important to check this in new construction.
- Non-matching
cabinet doors are frequently encountered.
- In
a remodeling situation, it is sometimes possible to change the doors rather
than the complete cabinet.
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Kitchens
Main Floors Appliances
Common Defects
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