Bob Russo, Kitchen Views at National Lumber, Newton, MA
A true veteran, Bob has designed kitchens for almost 35 years, 19 of them at National Lumber’s Newton Highlands location. Certified as an Accredited Cabinetry and Space Designer (ACSD), Bob is also certified as a Kitchen Remodeler by the National Association of the Remodeling Industry (RKBP).
You can view his profile and portfolio on the Kitchen Views website.
Kitchen Installers & Insurance
In my 30 plus years as a Kitchen Designer, I have seen many well-planned kitchen projects go badly, due to a less than qualified installer. If you are a homeowner that has the ability to do your own install (some homeowners really can with a little advice from your designer), then good for you.
For those who plan to hire out, please take the time to talk to a few installers, find one that you feel comfortable with. They will be in your home for awhile. Talk to your neighbors, family who had kitchens installed lately & your designer to get names of installers. But you should always ask for references. Please take the time to call and even visit the homes if possible.
Don’t be afraid to ask how many years have they been installing. Schooling is great, but there is no substitute for field experience. Many things come up in the field that they can’t duplicate in class.
Make sure that whey understand that regardless of field conditions, you expect the cabinets will be plum, square and level, installed properly (attached to the studs in the walls) and with the proper hardware.
It may sound funny to ask that of your installer, but I have visited some jobs, and have been told by the installer: “Well, that is the best we could do, given the field conditions.”
If cabinets are not plum/square and level drawers and accessories (like trash/recycle bin cabinets) they may not stay closed. Doors and drawers may not adjust or line up correctly, sometimes caused by racking (the twisting of a cabinet), trim (crown/light rail etc.) will not fit well.
In the way of insurance, please, please, please, I can not stress this enough. Make sure that any professional you have work in or on your home is insured with both Workman’s Comp (in case one or more of their workers or subs get hurt on the job) and liability insurance (in case they do damage to your home or something happens with the work they had done after they are gone). You just never know…
In closing, take the time to pick someone that will install your cabinets with the same care and thoughtfulness that you did when you picked them out and planned your project.
Bob Russo, ACSD/RKBP
Kitchen Views at National Lumber
15 Needham St.
Newton, MA 02461
617-244-8020
brusso@kitchenviews.com
Kitchen Views' Blog 
In your kitchen, sink is one of the most important parts of your kitchen appearance and performance. If you can combine useful and beautiful sink, you have a great kitchen for cooking.