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Welcome toBow Valley Kitchens Online
Welcome to
Bow Valley Kitchens Online
BVK is an innovative cabinet company specializing in custom cabinetry for every room in your home in a large variety of styles and price ranges.
What's New
* The Calgary showroom is moving to a bigger, better location in October.* Now more options in modern cabinetry through our new German supplier.
* The Calgary showroom is moving to a bigger, better location in October.
* Now more options in modern cabinetry through our new German supplier.
We are an experienced team of kitchen designers, installers, project managers, and owners. We are proud of our work and would like to handle your next project!
Our Suppliers and Affiliates
With quality Canadian made cabinets from our excellent suppliers, Bow Valley Kitchens is able to bring function, beauty, and value to any room in your home with a better return on investment than any other home improvement.
The vision of Bow Valley Kitchens is to provide superior service and a quality product to the Bow Valley and Calgary regions. With over one hundred years of combined experience, Bow Valley Kitchens has surpassed expectations. Our honest and fair approach has proven to the community that our standards of design integrity and commitment to delivering product in a timely manner are unequalled anywhere in the area. Going the extra mile is part of our everyday vocabulary.
After
Before
Norm & Ann Tower
"We just love our new kitchen. Frank, your ability to work with our rough ideas and incorporate the existing cabinetry into the new design shows your professionalism and ability to visualize.These attributes were further evidenced when incorporating the pantry ,which we requested, into the overall design. The cabinetry arrived on schedule as promised. This was important to us as we were working with several other trades on a tight time frame. Installation by Reuben was performed with care and showed off his expertise.
Those few items which required follow-up were performed by John in a timely and caring manner. Please do not hesitate to request a recommendation from us in the future. Frank, thanks again for your professionalism, vision, expertise and timeliness."
The Philps
Testimonial coming soon
Whether you give your kitchen a new look with a few tasteful upgrades or rip it out and start over, the results can be dramatic.
> What makes a kitchen more or less expensive?
Cabinets range in price considerably based on quality, the type of material they are made of, and whether they are stock (ready made in specific sizes) or custom (produced specifically for your kitchen in whatever sizes are needed). The material you choose for surfaces including counters, backsplashes and floors can also account for variations in price. Other key elements that factor into the equation are talent and workmanship. In the cabinet business, you tend to get what you pay for. An accomplished designer, skilled cabinetmaker, and expert installation crew may cost more. But you'll appreciate their ability every time you use your kitchen.
> What can I do myself to help cut costs?
How much you can or should attempt to do depends on your ability and knowledge of cabinet industry. You'll definitely be able to tear out old cabinets, take up old vinyl flooring and handle trash removal. You may also want to paint or wallpaper on your own. You're better off letting the pros handle plumbing and appliance hook-ups -- if you try it on your own, you may violate building codes or invalidate manufacturer warranties. And let a professional installer put your new cabinets in so that they look their best.
> What about contracts and orders?
Before any work begins on your kitchen, get detailed, written quotes, cabinet layout specifications and signed contracts from the professionals you hire. Check references carefully. Your designer should prepare project drawings including floor plans and renderings that clearly represent your project. If anything changes mid-project, you should be asked to sign a change order.
> What about payment?
Most firms will require a percentage (usually 50 percent or so) when you sign the contract, additional payment (usually 40 percent or so) when cabinets are delivered or installation begins, and the balance (10 percent or so) when the job is complete. You may also be required to pay a design retainer at the start of the job.
> How long will it take to get the cabinets I order?
Order time varies depending on the manufacturer and the complexity of the job. The minimum time is roughly four weeks and can be as much as eight weeks during peak times of the year.
> Can you design my kitchen from a sketch of the room that I provide?
We can certainly start with a sketch you provide. Your forethought in doing some homework can shorten the time needed to design the final layout. However, we will always do our own measurements to verify that the design will actually work.
> What is the best type of countertop for the kitchen? For bathrooms? For the laundry room?
There are many possible countertop choices. As with cabinets, your budget needs to be matched with your desire for flexibility of design and product longevity. Laminate, solid surface, quartz-enhanced and granite are all good choices.
> Can you match my existing cabinets or furniture?
All woods and stains change colour over time; some more so than others. In many cases, Bow Valley Kitchens can find cabinetry that may be compatible with your existing cabinets or furniture. In no case can we guarantee an exact match.
> Are environmentally green cabinets available at a reasonable price?
Bow Valley Kitchens represents several manufacturers across the price spectrum whose cabinets are certified under the Environmental Stewardship Program developed by the KCMA (Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturers Association).
> What's the difference between manufactured cabinets and custom-made cabinets?
Years ago there was a significant difference in the sizes and finishes available from "custom" cabinet makers and the "stock" manufacturers. Today, our cabinet manufacturers offer custom sizing and finishes that rival, and may even exceed, the possibilities of a local custom cabinet shop.
> Do you charge a design fee, measure fee or other fees in addition to the contract price for cabinets and installation?
Bow Valley Kitchens does not charge a measure fee or a design fee for a first design or quote. In some cases, where multiple design revisions are requested, a design retainer may be requested. That retainer is then credited in full to the final cost of the job.
> Do you provide cabinets for remodeling only, or also for new construction?
Bow Valley Kitchens works with a number of reputable builders and can provide cabinets through your contractor or directly to you for your kitchen or bath remodeling project or room addition. We also work with many custom home builders who consult with our designers to assure that the layouts for kitchen cabinets, bath cabinets, laundry room cabinets and other cabinetry are chosen to properly fit the budget and space. We will coordinate directly with your builder and also consult directly with you.
> Does Bow Valley Kitchens sell countertops?
No we do not sell countertops but can recommend suppliers in our area. We recommend you have your countertops constructed locally. Our cabinets look best with single slab countertops.
> Do you provide counterops?
While we don't sell and install just counterops, we do offer a variety of counter top materials for our projects; wood veneers in a variety of species, butcher blocks, and plastic laminate. We don't fabricate stone, but we are happy to refer you to a reputable granite fabricator so you can buy direct and save. Our cabinets look best with single slab counterops.
> I've seen so many things I like, I don't know what I want. Where do I start?
Looking through model homes, books and magazines can be very helpful and very confusing. What design trends have staying power? Our designers can help you sort through the various options and help identify those elements that appeal to you. They will help you come up with a unique plan that incorporates the features and look that best suits you, your family and your lifestyle.
> How much does a kitchen or bath cost?
This is the same as asking "How much is a car per pound?". There is no correct answer to this question. It depends on what is contained within that foot (or pound, as the case may be). A bank of drawers with complete storage solutions will cost more then a simple door/drawer combination, and yet less then an integrated pantry unit. Companies that quote per linear foot will quote the most economical cabinet (full height cabinet, no drawer) to determine this figure There are many choices when it comes to cabinets and countertops. Following our detailed process will benefit you by exploring all options which will then give you an exact cost. However every Bow Valley Kitchen is tailored to your individual wants and needs, and then designed to fit your unique space and project budget.
> Does your firm provide other remodeling work such as electrical and plumbing?
Bow Valley Kitchens will only install contracted cabinets and wood or laminate countertops. We do not install and/or remove anything other than cabinets and countertops.
> What are your showroom hours?
We are open Monday thru Friday (9am-5pm) and some Saturdays (by appointment only).
> How long have you been in business?
Bow Valley Kitchens has been serving southwestern Alberta and beyond since 1997.
> What makes a kitchen custom?
The word custom is perhaps the most overused word within the kitchen industry and carries a myriad of meanings. At Bow Valley Kitchens all our kitchens are customized to fit your specific wants and needs. With 3 different cabinet lines the options offered by Bow Valley Kitchens are practically endless.
> Why do you need to know my budget? Shouldn't you tell me how much the kitchen is?
It has been said that a kitchen project is limited by two things; your imagination and your pocket book. With the sheer amount of kitchen choices and options, it is very important that you and your designer have a budget to work towards. Cabinet line, wood species, door style, finish, finish options, interior features, layout, cabinet composition, and many more factors go into determining the final price for your kitchen; and that's just the cabinets! Our average kitchen projects range from $20,000-$40,000, but we have completed beautiful kitchens for our clients ranging from $10,000 to $100,000+. A rough starting point for your budget is 5-10% of your home's current market value.
> Why should I work with Bow Valley Kitchens?
At Bow Valley Kitchens we recognize that a new kitchen or renovated one is an investment, and as such, we invest the time and care in your project to maximize your return, in both your home's value and your personal lifestyle. Because Bow Valley Kitchens is an independent kitchen firm, we are able to provide you with diverse product offerings to suit your individual wants and needs. Our process from start to finish is designed to be hassle free by maintaining open lines of communication throughout the entire project. Our business is our reputation, and to that end, we vow that no project is complete until you are fully satisfied with your experience with us.
If you have any other questions please call us 1-866-609-3131or e-mail info_bvkitchens.com
The style of your kitchen is a reflection of your own personality. Kitchen style is dictated by its lines, colours, and wood species.
ContemporaryModern kitchen design is heavily influenced from European design where sharp lines and functionality are paramount. This has opened the door to exciting new options in layout and color choices often leaning toward exotic woods and the latest in innovative gadgets.
Contemporary
Modern kitchen design is heavily influenced from European design where sharp lines and functionality are paramount. This has opened the door to exciting new options in layout and color choices often leaning toward exotic woods and the latest in innovative gadgets.
ShakerThe Shakers were a religious group from England originating in the 1700's. Their focus on simplicity carried through to their home building design. What we call shaker design today is a reflection of this group's philosophy. Non-embellished clean lines.
Shaker
The Shakers were a religious group from England originating in the 1700's. Their focus on simplicity carried through to their home building design. What we call shaker design today is a reflection of this group's philosophy. Non-embellished clean lines.
TraditionalTimeless and ornate. Naturally elegant. Tasteful employment of intricate mouldings. These designs have stood the test of time.
Traditional
Timeless and ornate. Naturally elegant. Tasteful employment of intricate mouldings. These designs have stood the test of time.
RusticKnotty wood and rough edges. These kitchens are often associated with mountain and lake settings, ski lodges, and weathered cabins. They should give you a feeling of warmth and coziness.
Rustic
Knotty wood and rough edges. These kitchens are often associated with mountain and lake settings, ski lodges, and weathered cabins. They should give you a feeling of warmth and coziness.
From start to finish, every project varies in the amount of time it takes to be completed. Listed below is a typical timeline of events you will encounter on your journey.
1) Visit a showroom
The very first step is to visit our showroom. This stage of our process is where you will be able to select the door style and cabinet finish. We are always more than happy to help with sample selections and work with you to answer any questions you may have. Once a showroom visit has been completed and we have all of your information, a home measurement appointment will be set up.
2) A BVK designer will come to your home to measure
This is where we will come out to your house and take all of the necessary cabinet measurements we need to design your new area. Our professional design staff will then have your layout and pricing completed within one to two weeks, depending upon the complexity of your design work. At this point, a second showroom visit is scheduled to have you come in and review your layout and pricing. This is also a good time to bring samples such as tile, paint, wallpaper, etc. to help you match up to the cabinets and/or countertops. Once a contract is signed and cabinets ordered, the delivery time can range from four to eight weeks. Within the week of your cabinet arrival we will call to schedule the installation date. If there is other remodeling that needs to take place (i.e. electrical, plumbing, wall work, etc.) this is the time to do it. The amount of time needed for other trades will determine when the installation of the new cabinets will be completed.
3) Installation
Depending on the size of your job most installations can take anywhere from two days to a few weeks. After all of the cabinets have been installed you may schedule for a countertop template. Simply put, your countertop source needs to measure and template the installed kitchen. Depending on your countertop material, the turn-around time for installation of your new countertop can be anywhere from one week to three weeks. You will be without running water during this time. We strongly recommend having your plumber hook up a temporary sink in place for you and your family. Once your countertops are installed, you will be able to have your plumbing reconnected. If at any time throughout the entire process you should have a question or concern, please contact us and we will happily help walk you through the procedures.
Layout of your kitchen is one of the first steps in designing. Where certain items are placed will make it either a well oiled, functional work area, or a clunky regret.
It's important to understand the different work stations that make up every kitchen. Food preparation, food storage, cooking, etc. Our designers have years of experience which gives them an edge on space design and they understand that the working triangle* is only a starting point for good design. The diagrams below will give you some definition to the terms used in the industry.
L-Shaped
U-Shaped
Galley
Peninsula
Island
* The working triangle is a concept in the kitchen industry which helps to guide designers in kitchen work flow where the 3 main work stations are situated in a triange formation and the sum of all segments does not exceed 24 feet.
GeneralWarranty only covers products supplied from the Decor/Sollera Cabinet Company to the original purchaser or homeowner.All products are warranted to be free of defects in material and workmanship for a period of 3 years.Hinges and drawer tracks have a manufacturer's lifetime warranty. (Removal and installation is not included.) Wood FinishingThe Decor/Sollera Cabinet Company uses only the finest finishing materials available.After a final hand sanding, all wood products are inspected for imperfections.Toners are used where necessary to even out any natural wood variations.Furniture stains are applied and hand-wiped to bring out the natural beauty of the wood.A catalyzed sealer is applied to seal the wood from moisture.The product is hand-sanded and given a final inspection before the topcoat is applied.To provide the best possible protection, a satin topcoat of catalyzed varnish is applied.All finishes provided by the Decor/Sollera Cabinet Company are easy to clean and resistant to most household chemicals.Wood CharacteristicsThe Decor/Sollera Cabinet Company uses only the finest kiln-dried hardwoods.Because no two pieces of wood are exactly the same there may be slight variations in colour. The differences in the grain and patterns add to the natural beauty of solid woods and veneers.All hardwoods may contain some pin knots which add to the natural beauty of the wood.Cherry and maple occasionally have mineral streaks that may become darker when stained.
General
Wood Finishing
Wood Characteristics
Download and/or print
the Warranty here
warranty
Cleaning- The following instructions apply to all wood, melamine, laminate, and painted surfaces. Wipe with a damp soft cloth, then dry with another soft cloth.Always wipe in the direction of the wood grain.For thorough cleaning of your cabinets you can do the following:For wood doors and surfaces use a non-wax based cleaner that is designed specifically for wood cabinets and woodwork, or use mild soap mixed with water, rinse well and then dry with a soft cloth. Lemon oil also works, but it will leave the surface oily to the touch.For painted doors and surfaces, use a cleaner that is designed for painted wood cabinets and woodwork, mild soap and water or a diluted vinegar and water solution (rinse well).For melamine or high pressure laminate doors and surfaces use the above methods. For stubborn stains use a damp soapy cloth, rinse well to remove all soap residue and dry with a soft cloth.All Decor/Sollera cabinets have clip-on hinges that allow easy removal of the doors (see diagram below). This provides greater access to the cabinet interiors to give them a thorough cleaning.General CareNever use detergents, strong soaps, abrasives, or waxes. They can damage the finish or leave a residue that air borne grease will stick to.Do not wipe cabinets with a dishcloth. A dishcloth can contain soap, grease, and other soil that can damage the finished surface of the cabinets.Excessive moisture is the enemy of any finish or wood product. Do not allow water or other liquids to be in contact with outside or inside surfaces for prolonged periods of time. This may eventually dull the finish and stain melamine interiors. It may absorb into the wood core of the veneer, toe-kick or end panels and start to swell.Avoid steam from kettles, etc. being directed at the underside of cabinets or bottom edge of doors. This may eventually affect the adhesion of the edge banding and may also dull the finish. Treat Decor/Sollera cabinets as you would any other piece of furniture and they will reward you with long lasting beauty.Scratches and nicks can be eliminated or hidden by using a touch-up colour marker on shallow scratches, or by using a matching wood-tone putty stick on deeper scratches or nicks. These areas can then be blended with surrounding areas using a light coat of wax. Touch-up markers and putty sticks are available from your local Decor/Sollera Cabinet Company dealer.Finish can wear off on the cabinet doors used most often, due to home owners not using the handles on the doors and drawer fronts. Over time the oil from your hand will break down the finish.AdjustmentsYour Decor/Sollera cabinets are equipped with 3-way adjustable hinges. Over time you may notice your doors are no longer perfectly aligned, but this is easily fixed.Below is a diagram with detailed instructions on how to perform these simple adjustments.
Cleaning- The following instructions apply to all wood, melamine, laminate, and painted surfaces.
For thorough cleaning of your cabinets you can do the following:
General Care
Adjustments
Cabinet Care here
Cabinet Care
CleaningWhen it comes to cleaning a butcher block countertop, table, or other surface, a mild soap works best. Using a mild cleaning agent, such as a liquid dishwashing detergent mixed with water, will help to gently clean the surface without dulling the finish or damaging the grain.Preventing the buildup of bacteria is just as important as removing dirt, so part of the cleaning process should be to disinfect the surface using a mixture of one tablespoon bleach mixed with one gallon of water. This solution can be kept in a spray bottle for ease of use, and the surface can be sprayed after each time food is prepared on the surface. This regular disinfecting will help reduce the chances of spreading food borne illness.Regular MaintenanceWhen it comes to a butcher block surface which doubles as a cutting board or cutting surface, it is best to finish it with a penetrating oil, generally with some sort of mineral oil. It is also a good idea to apply a non-toxic oil every couple of months in order to maintain the finish and keep the wood surface as stain resistant as possible. A good quality mineral oil works very well, but olive oil and vegetable oil should NOT be used as it will quickly turn rancid and cause odors and other problems.When oiling the butcher block surface, use a clean cloth, wiping with the grain, then allow the oil to soak into the wood for four to six hours. After the oil has soaked into the surface, the excess can be wiped off using a clean, soft cloth.Occasional MaintenanceOf course every surface will eventually suffer from stains and unwanted marks, and it is important to know how to deal with those problems and keep the countertop looking like new. One solution would be to have the entire surface resealed, but it may not be necessary to take such a radical and expensive step. When scratches are encountered, try shaking some salt over them, then scrubbing the wood using a half a lemon. Allow the wood to sit overnight, then rinse the surface with water. Darker stains and scratches can be similarly addressed using a three percent solution of hydrogen peroxide and water.If a complete sanding and resurfacing is needed, there are a number of excellent wood sealers made specifically for use on food bearing surfaces. It is of course important to choose a non-toxic sealant, and to carefully apply it according to the instructions printed on the package.
Cleaning
When it comes to cleaning a butcher block countertop, table, or other surface, a mild soap works best. Using a mild cleaning agent, such as a liquid dishwashing detergent mixed with water, will help to gently clean the surface without dulling the finish or damaging the grain.
Preventing the buildup of bacteria is just as important as removing dirt, so part of the cleaning process should be to disinfect the surface using a mixture of one tablespoon bleach mixed with one gallon of water. This solution can be kept in a spray bottle for ease of use, and the surface can be sprayed after each time food is prepared on the surface. This regular disinfecting will help reduce the chances of spreading food borne illness.
Regular Maintenance
When it comes to a butcher block surface which doubles as a cutting board or cutting surface, it is best to finish it with a penetrating oil, generally with some sort of mineral oil. It is also a good idea to apply a non-toxic oil every couple of months in order to maintain the finish and keep the wood surface as stain resistant as possible. A good quality mineral oil works very well, but olive oil and vegetable oil should NOT be used as it will quickly turn rancid and cause odors and other problems.
When oiling the butcher block surface, use a clean cloth, wiping with the grain, then allow the oil to soak into the wood for four to six hours. After the oil has soaked into the surface, the excess can be wiped off using a clean, soft cloth.
Occasional Maintenance
Of course every surface will eventually suffer from stains and unwanted marks, and it is important to know how to deal with those problems and keep the countertop looking like new. One solution would be to have the entire surface resealed, but it may not be necessary to take such a radical and expensive step. When scratches are encountered, try shaking some salt over them, then scrubbing the wood using a half a lemon. Allow the wood to sit overnight, then rinse the surface with water. Darker stains and scratches can be similarly addressed using a three percent solution of hydrogen peroxide and water.
If a complete sanding and resurfacing is needed, there are a number of excellent wood sealers made specifically for use on food bearing surfaces. It is of course important to choose a non-toxic sealant, and to carefully apply it according to the instructions printed on the package.
Butcher Block Care here
Butcher Block Care
Canmore Head Office & Showroom103 - 75 Dyrgas GateCanmore, AB T1W 0A6T: 403-609-3131F: 403-609-3133
Canmore Head Office & Showroom
103 - 75 Dyrgas Gate
Canmore, AB T1W 0A6
T: 403-609-3131
F: 403-609-3133
Calgary Office & Showroom5740 - 1A Street SWCalgary, AB T2H 0E9T: 403-258-2230F: 403-258-2281
Calgary Office & Showroom
5740 - 1A Street SW
Calgary, AB T2H 0E9
T: 403-258-2230
F: 403-258-2281
Send us a message- we would love to hear from you!
Canmore
Calgary
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©Bow Valley Kitchens Ltd. 2010 info_bvkitchens.com Canmore Office: (403) 609-3131, 103-75 Dyrgas Gate Calgary Office: (403) 258-2230, 5740-1A St. SW
