Kitchen Remodeling & Bathroom Remodeling Glossary

This glossary breaks down key kitchen remodeling terms in plain English so Kent homeowners can make smarter decisions without overpaying. From cabinet choices to permit rules, knowing these terms helps you spot value, and avoid costly surprises. Whether you’re planning a full kitchen remodel or small upgrades, clarity saves money and stress. Ready to tackle your project with confidence? Start here.

Kent’s kitchen remodeling scene offers everything from budget-friendly updates to high-end renovations, but not all terms mean what you think. Should you reface cabinets to save money? Is quartz really worth the hype over granite? And why does your contractor keep asking about load-bearing walls? This glossary cuts through the jargon so you can compare options like a pro. For a deeper dive into pricing or local trends, check out our Kent kitchen remodeling cost guide or see how we’ve helped neighbors in Maple Valley and Auburn balance quality and cost. Need a second opinion? Contact us for a no-pressure estimate.

Cabinet refacing

Refacing replaces only the doors and drawer fronts (plus hardware) of existing cabinets while keeping the original box structure. It’s the most budget-friendly way to update your kitchen, often 50% cheaper than full cabinet replacement. In Kent’s older homes, this can be a big improvement for a fresh look without gutting walls. Just note: if your cabinets are damaged or outdated in layout, refacing may not solve deeper issues. For a cost breakdown, see our kitchen remodel pricing page.

Stock, semi-custom, and custom cabinets

Stock cabinets are pre-made, one-size-fits-all (cheapest but limited styles). Semi-custom offers more sizes/finishes but still uses some pre-built components. Custom cabinets are built to your exact specs, ideal for Kent’s unique layouts or high-end designs. The trade-off? Stock saves $3,000–$5,000; custom can double that. For a reality check on what Kent homeowners actually spend, read our full remodel vs. partial upgrades guide.

Shaker cabinet

A classic raised-panel cabinet style with clean lines and a timeless look. Shakers are durable, easy to clean, and work in any Kent home, from farmhouse kitchens to modern minimalist designs. They’re also versatile for refacing or new builds. Pro tip: Painted shakers hide wear better than stained wood in high-traffic areas like near the sink or stove.

Soft-close hinges

Hinges that gently shut cabinet doors instead of slamming. They’re a small upgrade (adding $50–$150 total) that cuts noise and prevents damage, especially useful in Kent’s tighter homes where kids or pets might bump doors. Worth it? Yes, if you hate the sound of banging cabinets or have glass doors that could crack.

Quartz countertop

An engineered stone made of crushed quartz resin, non-porous (so it resists stains and bacteria), and low-maintenance. Quartz is more scratch-resistant than granite and won’t need sealing, making it a smart pick for Kent’s humid summers. Downside? It’s not heat-resistant, always use trivets under pots. For a side-by-side on quartz vs. granite, see our ultimate Kent kitchen remodeling guide.

Granite countertop

Natural stone with unique veining and heat resistance, but it’s porous and needs sealing every 1–2 years. Granite’s durability makes it great for Kent’s active kitchens, but the upkeep can be a hassle. If you love the look but hate maintenance, consider quartz or butcher block instead. Ask your contractor about sealed vs. unsealed granite, some sellers skip sealing to cut costs.

Butcher block

Butcher block countertops add rustic warmth to Kent kitchens. They’re prone to scratches but can be sanded and refinished. Require frequent oiling, especially in Kent’s dry winters, to prevent cracks. Best for prep areas, not over stoves or sinks where moisture builds up.

Waterfall edge

A waterfall edge extends downward from the countertop, blending with cabinets for a sleek look. Popular in modern Kent kitchens, but harder to clean (crumbs hide underneath). If you like the style, pick a thicker edge to avoid chips.

Backsplash

The wall covering behind your stove, sink, and countertop. In Kent’s smaller kitchens, a light-colored backsplash can make the space feel bigger. Materials range from affordable peel-and-stick tiles to high-end glass or stone. Pro tip: Avoid glossy finishes, they show fingerprints and grease faster in a busy kitchen.

Kitchen island

A kitchen island is a standalone counter or table in the center of the space. Adds storage, prep room, and seating, but costs $3,000–$10,000 installed. In Kent’s older homes, check if your flooring can handle the weight first. For layout advice, see our work triangle guide.

Work triangle

The imaginary line connecting your sink, stove, and refrigerator, the heart of your kitchen’s efficiency. In Kent’s galley kitchens, this triangle should be 4–9 feet wide for easy movement. If it’s too tight, you’ll waste time during meal prep. A good contractor will map this out before demolition.

Under-cabinet lighting

LED strips installed beneath upper cabinets to brighten countertops without glare. Perfect for Kent’s darker kitchens or task lighting over sinks and prep areas. Hardwired options are pricier but more reliable than plug-in strips. Ask about dimmable LEDs if you want adjustable lighting for cooking and cleaning.

Range hood (ducted vs. ductless)

Ductless hoods recirculate air (cheaper, $150–$400) but don’t remove grease or smoke well. Ducted hoods vent outside (better for Kent’s indoor air quality) but cost $500–$1,500+ with installation. If you cook with gas or fry often, ductless won’t cut it, opt for ducted. For hood recommendations, check our blog for local reviews.

Pot filler

A faucet extension that delivers water directly to pots on the stove, saving you from carrying heavy pots to the sink. Great for Kent’s busy families, but installation requires rough-in plumbing adjustments (adding $200–$500). If your kitchen layout allows, it’s a small upgrade with big payoffs.

Toe kick

The small gap (usually 3–4 inches) between the bottom of cabinets and the floor, allowing you to slide chairs in and out. In Kent’s tighter kitchens, this space also hides plumbing or storage bins. Skipping it can make your kitchen feel cramped, don’t overlook it in the design phase.

Load-bearing wall

A load-bearing wall supports your home’s roof or upper floors. Removing one without an engineer’s approval can cause a ceiling collapse. In Kent’s older homes, these walls often run near staircases or exterior walls. Always hire a contractor who reviews structural plans before demo, we include this in our free estimates.

Rough-in

The rough-in phase covers plumbing, electrical, and HVAC work before walls go up. Tukwila’s permit process requires code compliance here before drywall. Cutting corners now leads to expensive fixes later. A good contractor handles rough-in properly, ask about our phased pricing to avoid last-minute surprises.

Building permit

A legal approval from Kent’s building department required for most kitchen remodels (especially those involving plumbing, electrical, or structural changes). Permits ensure your work meets safety codes and protect your home’s value. Fees vary ($50–$500+), but skipping them can void insurance or lead to fines. We handle permits for you, no hassle.

Change order

A written request to modify your original kitchen remodel plan (e.g., upgrading cabinets or adding a pantry). Change orders add to your budget, sometimes by thousands. Always get quotes in writing before agreeing, and ask if the change affects your timeline. We’ll review changes with you upfront to keep costs transparent.

Allowance

A set amount in your budget for unspecified materials (like flooring or fixtures) that you’ll pay out of pocket. Contractors use allowances to keep bids low, but they can backfire if costs rise. In Kent’s competitive market, always ask for firm pricing, we avoid allowances unless you prefer them.

Punch list

A final checklist of minor fixes (like loose cabinet handles or caulk gaps) before your contractor considers the job complete. In Kent’s rainy climate, some issues (like paint bubbling) only appear after installation. Always do a walkthrough with your contractor before paying the final invoice, we include punch lists in every project.

Frequently Asked Questions