FAQ
Questions and answers
Here are the questions that usually come up when someone decides to get their kitchen in order or start a renovation: who we are, where to begin, what you can do yourself and when it is time to put down the screwdriver and call a professional.
If you are not sure whether you should touch it yourself, ask first. The tools can wait.
About the guide
Is Domzhizn connected with the previous site on this domain?
No. A different site used to be on this domain, and later unrelated spam pages appeared here. Their content has not survived and is not reproduced; only the name of the guide comes from the domain.
Are you a cabinet maker or a contractor?
No. We do not make furniture, sell appliances, take orders or come out to measure. Domzhizn explains how to think through your kitchen and take care of it on your own.
Why don't you recommend specific models?
We write about principles that apply to any kitchen. Specific furniture, appliances and materials are easier to choose based on your own measurements, light and family habits.
Can I suggest a topic?
Yes. Readers' questions help us decide what to write about next, and topics already in progress are listed in the Materials section.
Setting up and renovating a kitchen
Where do I start if my kitchen is inconvenient?
With observation. Walk your usual route from the fridge to the sink and stove, write down where it feels cramped or dark, and only then think about rearranging or renovating.
What comes first: cabinets or tile?
Messy work comes before the cabinets go in: wiring, pipes, leveling walls and floor. Discuss the order for your kitchen with your tradespeople before work begins.
Can I replace the sealant around the sink myself?
Yes, it is a manageable job. Remove the old seam, clean and dry the surface, apply the new sealant following the manufacturer's instructions and air out the kitchen.
Do tall cabinets need to be anchored to the wall?
Yes. Tall cabinets and pantry units are anchored to the wall so they cannot tip over, especially if there are children in the home or you store heavy items up high.
Kitchen safety
What should I do if I smell gas?
Do not switch lights or appliances on or off, do not light a flame, open the windows, leave the room and call 112 or your local emergency number, or the gas emergency service.
Can I hook up a dishwasher myself?
Water and drain connections are best left to a plumber, and the outlet for the appliance to an electrician. You can decide in advance where the dishwasher will go and mark it on your plan.
Is it OK to mix cleaning products?
No. Different household cleaning products can release harmful fumes when mixed. Use each one on its own and as the manufacturer directs.
Should I unplug appliances before cleaning?
Yes. Before cleaning the range hood, oven or any other appliance, and before a small repair, unplug it and wait until it cools down.
Read next
- How-to
How to renew the sealant around the sink, adjust cabinet doors and clean the grease filter of the range hood.
- Planning
The order of a kitchen renovation: measuring, work zones, lighting and outlets, work by professionals, sequence of work and final check.
- Care
Caring for countertops, the sink, range hood, oven, tile grout, cabinet fronts and the dining table, by season and by situation.
What we rely on
- Instructions from furniture, appliance and material manufacturers
- Building management rules and local remodeling regulations
- Domzhizn editorial materials
Domzhizn advice is written in general terms and based on the instructions of furniture, appliance and material manufacturers and on widely accepted kitchen safety rules. Check the manual for how to clean a specific surface or service an appliance, ask your building management about remodeling, and leave gas, electrical work and water connections to professionals.