Kitchen Remodeling & Bathroom Remodeling Glossary

This glossary breaks down key kitchen remodeling terms in plain English so Bellevue homeowners can confidently plan their project. From cabinet choices to permit requirements, understanding these terms helps you avoid surprises and pick the right contractor for your high-end kitchen renovation. Delgado Kitchen Remodeling LLC specializes in premium craftsmanship, let’s make your Bellevue kitchen both beautiful and built to last.

Planning a kitchen remodel in Bellevue? Knowing the right terms helps you communicate clearly with your contractor and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re updating cabinets or installing quartz countertops, this glossary explains what each term means, and why it matters for your project. For a smooth experience, our team handles everything from permits to final inspections, ensuring your kitchen meets Bellevue’s standards while exceeding your expectations. Ready to start? Learn more about our services or see our Bellevue kitchen remodeling projects.

Cabinet refacing

Cabinet refacing updates the doors and drawer fronts of your existing cabinets while keeping the original box structure. It’s a cost-effective way to refresh your kitchen without replacing entire cabinets. In Bellevue’s older homes, this option can save thousands while maintaining the original wood frame. Our pricing guide compares refacing to full cabinet replacement for your budget.

Stock, semi-custom and custom cabinets

Stock cabinets are pre-made and least expensive, while semi-custom offers limited customization (like door styles) at mid-range pricing. Custom cabinets are built to your exact measurements and finishes, ideal for high-end Bellevue kitchens with unique layouts. See our cabinet options to choose what fits your style and budget.

Shaker cabinet

A classic cabinet style with a simple, clean look, five-piece doors with a recessed center panel framed by raised stiles and rails. Shaker cabinets are timeless and work well in Bellevue’s modern and traditional homes. Their durability makes them a smart investment for long-term use.

Soft-close hinges

Hinges designed to gently close cabinet doors and drawers without slamming, reducing noise and preventing damage. In a busy Bellevue kitchen, soft-close hinges add convenience and protect your new cabinets from wear. They’re a small upgrade with big benefits for daily use.

Quartz countertop

An engineered stone made from crushed quartz and resin, offering durability, low maintenance, and resistance to stains and scratches. Quartz is a top choice for Bellevue homeowners who want a sleek, modern look without the upkeep of natural stone. Compare quartz to granite for your remodel.

Granite countertop

A natural stone countertop with unique veining and heat resistance, but requires sealing every 1–2 years. Granite adds luxury to Bellevue kitchens but needs more maintenance than quartz. If you love natural stone, granite offers unmatched beauty, but factor in long-term care costs.

Butcher block

A solid wood countertop made from large wood slabs, often used for prep areas. Butcher block adds warmth to a kitchen but requires regular oiling to prevent drying and cracking. In Bellevue’s humid climate, proper maintenance keeps it looking fresh for years.

Waterfall edge

A countertop edge where the material extends downward like a waterfall, creating a smooth look with cabinetry. Popular in modern Bellevue kitchens, waterfall edges add visual interest but may require extra support for heavy materials like granite. See our design gallery for inspiration.

Backsplash

The protective (and decorative) surface behind your countertop and stove. Materials range from tile to stone to glass, each offering different durability and style. In Bellevue’s high-end kitchens, subway tile or natural stone backsplashes balance functionality with elegance.

Kitchen island

A freestanding unit with countertop space, often including storage or seating. Islands expand Bellevue kitchens’ functionality but require careful planning for traffic flow and structural support. Our kitchen remodeling guide covers island design tips.

Work triangle

The invisible path linking your sink, range, and fridge, the heart of your kitchen’s workflow. A properly spaced work triangle in a Bellevue home should let you move between these spots smoothly. A poorly planned one wastes room and slows down meal prep.

Under-cabinet lighting

LED strips installed beneath upper cabinets to illuminate countertops and reduce shadows. This task lighting is ideal for Bellevue kitchens where natural light is limited, especially in lower-level or windowless spaces. It’s energy-efficient and easy to install during a remodel.

Range hood (ducted vs. ductless)

A ductless hood recirculates air through filters, while a ducted hood vents smoke and steam outside via a duct. Ductless hoods are simpler to install but less effective in Bellevue’s high-moisture kitchens. Ducted hoods require venting but offer superior performance for gas stoves.

Pot filler

A faucet extension that delivers water directly to pots on the stove, eliminating the need to carry heavy pots to the sink. Pot fillers are a luxury feature in Bellevue kitchens, adding convenience and a high-end touch. They’re best installed during a full remodel.

Toe kick

The small gap (usually 2–4 inches) between the bottom of cabinets and the floor, allowing homeowners to slide chairs in and out. In Bellevue’s tighter kitchens, toe kicks also provide storage space for cleaning supplies or small appliances.

Load-bearing wall

A wall that supports the weight of the structure above it. Removing a load-bearing wall in your Bellevue home requires engineering approval and may need a beam installed for support. Always verify before planning cabinet or layout changes.

Rough-in

The phase of a kitchen remodel where plumbing, electrical, and structural work is completed before cabinets and countertops go in. In Bellevue, rough-ins must meet local building codes, our team handles permits and inspections to keep your project on track.

Building permit

A legal approval from the city (like Bellevue) required for structural or plumbing changes during a remodel. Permits ensure your project meets safety standards. Delgado Kitchen Remodeling LLC handles permit applications for you, so you don’t have to navigate the process alone.

Change order

A written request to modify the original scope of your kitchen remodel, such as upgrading materials or adding features. Change orders affect your budget and timeline, always review them carefully before approving. Our pricing guide explains how changes impact costs.

Allowance

A set amount in your budget allocated for specific materials (like tile or hardware) that haven’t been finalized. Allowances help control costs but require careful selection to avoid overages. Our team works with you to choose options within your allowance.

Punch list

A final checklist of minor fixes (like touch-up paint or loose hinges) identified during the walk-through before project completion. A thorough punch list ensures your Bellevue kitchen is flawless before the final inspection. We don’t cut corners, we address every detail.

Frequently Asked Questions