[ITEM 4] QUESTION: Kitchen renovation: how to protect surfaces from moisture and grease?

Protecting surfaces from the destructive effects of moisture, steam, grease, and high temperatures is the key to ensuring your kitchen maintains its flawless appearance for years to come. For a successful kitchen renovation, the famous 80/20 rule works great, according to which you first need to solve two or three main problems, such as organizing reliable storage, proper lighting, and effective protection against dirt. Only after eliminating these key difficulties does it make sense to move on to improving small interior details and decorative elements.

The first step in combating moisture and grease is installing a powerful range hood with a capacity corresponding to the room's area and connecting it to the ventilation shaft via a smooth duct. This will prevent sticky grease deposits from settling on upper cabinets, the ceiling, and hard-to-reach wall areas. In the sink and cooktop area, all joints between the countertop, wall, and sink must be thoroughly treated with special moisture-resistant sealants based on silicone or polyurethane to prevent the chipboard frames from swelling.

For wall and cabinet finishes, choose materials with high resistance to frequent wet cleaning using household chemicals. Glossy facades visually expand the space, but require constant wiping from fingerprints, while matte surfaces with wood or stone textures are much more practical in everyday use. The flooring also needs protection, so ceramic tiles, luxury vinyl tiles (LVT), or high-durability moisture-resistant laminate will be the best choice for the kitchen area.

Regular care of protected surfaces using mild detergents will prevent ingrained dirt and mold formation in hard-to-reach places. Do not forget to promptly remove drops of grease and water immediately after cooking, without waiting for them to dry and form a persistent film. A comprehensive approach to protecting each interior element will ensure the hygiene and aesthetic appeal of your kitchen throughout its entire service life.