With contributions by Guest Blogger Angie Bersin from Redfin

There’s the old saying that goes “nothing good lasts forever,” and that is sadly true even when it comes to kitchen appliances and fixtures. While your brand-new kitchen may look sharp and impressive immediately post-renovation, all that glitters sadly doesn’t stay gold. At some point down the line, you’ll need to invest in replacement parts and even new kitchen fixtures.

In thinking about kitchen updates, it’s important to consider your needs from every angle. While a certain appliance or fixture may still be functionally adequate, there could be additional issues that are inevitable with years of use.  Here’s what you need to know about keeping your kitchen up to date.

How Long Do Refrigerators Last?

Replace As Needed – At Least Every 10 Years

You can’t talk about kitchen renovations without at least addressing the refrigerator. A faulty fridge can wreak havoc on a home almost immediately, bringing with it spoiled food, wasted money, and the potential for mold development.

While the average lifespan of a refrigerator is 10 years, there are signs that could pop up indicating that you’ll need to replace yours sooner:

• Excessive condensation; in some cases, this can be remedied with a door seal replacement

• Motor running too hot

• Quickly spoiling food

• Freezers that leave ice buildup or freezer burn

• Excess energy consumption with no changes in habits

• A loud motor

• Uneven cooling, including freezing within the refrigerator space

Add-ons like ice machines or water filters may need to be replaced after three to five years, but perhaps sooner if you live in a hot climate. If, however, your actual refrigerator has broken parts that are affecting its functionality, a full replacement may be the best option.

When do i need a new stove?

Replace Stoves Around Every 10 Years

It’s impossible cook in a well-working kitchen without a fully functional oven top or stove. While this appliance should last a while, it won’t be around forever. Certain things to look out for when deciding whether or not you need to replace your stove include:

• Cracked Glass

• One or more burners won’t light or heat up properly

• The oven heats unevenly, with particular areas heating faster than others

• Preheating takes longer than usual

• Uneven burners

• Strong smell of gas, indicating a potential leak

Even if a stove repair is possible, it may not be worth the investment as repair costs could exceed 50% of the initial purchasing price of the unit. In this case, it’s best to go with something new

Timelines for Countertops and Cabinet Installation

Fully Update Every 10-15 Years

Despite the common misconception that countertops and cabinetry will last forever, the truth is that even these elements of your kitchen will start to fade over time. Excessive use and possible carelessness could cause surfaces to wear down. After a certain amount of time, you’ll likely see that cupboard doors don’t close like they used to, shelves may begin to buckle, and screws may start to loosen. It’s therefore generally a good idea to explore a full kitchen remodel every 10-15 years. Whether it’s an issue of functionality or outdated designs, considering a kitchen remodel will likely be a worthwhile investment.

Countertop Replacements

No matter how old they are, it’s rare that countertops will interfere with your ability to use your kitchen (unless, of course, they crack or chip). That said, the look and feel of a countertop could seriously affect your home’s safety and resell value should you choose to move. Cracks in the surface could hold bacteria; stained surfaces may lead to structural problems down the line; outdated appearances might lessen the amount you could recoup upon reselling your home. All of this considered, it may be time to replace your countertops.

Cabinet Installation

Unless your cabinets are significantly newer than your countertops, it’s a good idea to replace both at the same time to ensure a cohesive setup, layout, and aesthetic. When you install cabinetry first, it’s easier to ensure a smooth countertop installation without worrying about damage during the process.

Timelines for the kitchen sinks and faucets

When used correctly and with care, kitchen sinks and faucets can last for quite a long time. Still, it’s imperative to select fixtures made from high quality materials, premium finishes, and to only change them if you’re looking to do a total kitchen renovation. One brand you can’t go wrong with? VIGO!

Built from VIGO’s proprietary non-porous solid Matte Stone™ composite, VIGO offers farmhouse, apron front kitchen sinks in a variety of unique designs. Made from a seamless piece of stone composite, these sinks resist stains, scratches, and chips. VIGO Faucets present premier water pressure while remaining eco-friendly. They maintain high-tech features, scratch-free finishes, and impressive construction.

Matte Stone™ Kitchen Sink Product Details

• Option to install with either flat apron or detailed front on display

• Non-porous, solid core construction resists fire and chemicals

• 10mm radius curved corners designed for functionality and easy cleaning

• Seamless matte surface resists scratches and interior glaze further repels stains

VIGO Livingston Kitchen Faucet Product Details

• Eco-friendly 1.8 gpm flow rate

• Single lever water and temperature control

• Dual-action faucet for aerated flow or powerful spray

• Solid brass construction and cFiber© shell with matte brushed gold finish

• Water pressure tested for industry standard

• Sedal ceramic disc cartridge tested for up to 500,000 uses

• Magnetic spout has 21 inches of extendable nylon braided hose

• VIGO finishes resist rust, corrosion, and tarnish, exceeding industry durability standards

A great kitchen has a lot to offer your quality of life and your diet, but maintaining functionality means staying on top of replacements. From broken appliances to outdated countertops, it’s up to you to keep your kitchen in perfect working order.

Enjoy our kitchen inspirations!