Cabinetry, Countertops, and More: Your Top FAQs Answered
We had a wonderful time this past weekend at the 2026 Winnipeg Renovation Show. Over three full days, we talked all things cabinetry and countertops with so many great people, and we started to notice a pattern in the questions being asked. Since we’re always happy to help make the process clearer, today’s blog is dedicated to answering the top questions we heard at the show.
Kitchen electrical code in Manitoba
Code for adding electrical outlets in kitchen islands vary between provinces and states, so it’s always best to check with a certified electrician before moving forward with a plan. But simply put, at the time of this blog publish date, yes, in Winnipeg, you can add outlets to your kitchen island!
As per the 2022 Winnipeg Electrical By-Law, receptacles for kitchen island and peninsular counter spaces shall be located in one or more of the following:
a) On or above the countertop or work surface, but not more than 500 mm above it.
b) Below the countertop or work surface but not more than 300 mm below it and not located where the countertop or work surface extends more than 150 mm beyond its support base.
Generally, a receptacle is required for each permanently installed island/peninsular counter space that is 300 mm by 600 mm or greater. If your island has a sink, cooktop, or other built-in equipment that splits the countertop into separate areas, you might need more than one outlet to cover all usable spots.
Will you come to my house for a consultation?
Yes we will! In-home consultations are a great way for us to get to know your space and take measurements for our drawings.
Typically, we recommend starting at one of our showrooms so we can explore different styles, accessories, etc. with you. But be sure to bring along photos of the existing space, rough dimensions, and inspiration. This is especially great if you’re not quite sure what style you may be wanting.
If you already have a general style direction for your space or are considering significant layout changes, an in-home consultation would probably be better to start so we can talk through ideas in the physical space.
Does Two30Nine provide lighting, plumbing, appliances?
We may be biased, but our integrated lighting is so seamless that it transforms the room without you even noticing the fixtures. We provide integrated lighting into cabinetry for most of our projects as we believe that good lighting completes a space. Read this blog for more inspiration on integrated lighting. While one of the installation options is for our lighting to simply plug into an outlet, if you choose to hardwired the lighting you will need an electrician to set up the wiring we provide.
We are not plumbers or electricians, so anything in that sphere of work, you will need to hire a professional or contractor to complete that work for you.
What are the features and benefits of porcelain countertops?
Picking the countertop material for your kitchen can be exciting, but overwhelming with all the options out there. One of the materials making a rise in popularity is porcelain, as seen in our booth!
You may also see porcelain referred to as sintered stone or ultra-compact surfaces. These countertops are man-made with completely natural materials and minerals like quartz, feldspar, and kaolin. There are no synthetic binders. The slabs are compacted at extremely high temperatures to create a dense, solid surface. Since porcelain is made using 100% natural materials, it is considered environmentally friendly, and can be recycled after it’s life in your kitchen.
A significant selling feature for porcelain is the fact that it will not be affected by heat or acid and is highly resistant to wear and scratches. Some porcelain brands boast that you can prep food using metal knives on the surface, and would only dull your knife blade.
When it comes to cost, the price range can vary quite a bit based on colour/pattern, finish, thickness, etc. and every layout can change the price per square foot, depending on slab useage. Simpler colours/patterns are typically going to be on the lower end, the more marble-y patterns tend to be on the higher end. A high-quality porcelain is comparable in price to a mid-to-high level colour from a brand name quartz manufacturer.
What is Invisacook?
One of the features that porcelain countertops allows you to add into your kitchen is an induction cooktop you can cook directly on the countertop with! Featured in our booth was the Invisacook brand of cooktops.
Invisacook is installed beneath your countertop. Using advanced invisa-induction technology, it works through your countertop to effectively heat the pan and create cooking space where there might not traditionally appear to be one. Additionally, as the Invisacook does not generate direct heat, it remains safe to use as traditional counter space when you’re not cooking.
An important thing to note is the compatible and non-compatible cookware to use with the Invisacook:
Compatible
- The Invisacook brand cookware
- Stainless steel with magnetic bottom
- Full clad stainless steel
Non-compatible
- Copper
- Aluminum
- Glass
- Cast iron pan
What is UV Lacquer and TFL material?
Our main display from our Reno Show booth comes from our Zonavita product line which is made from TFL and UV Lacquer material.
Our TFL, or melamine as it’s commonly known, is a versatile choice for cabinetry, available in smooth or textured woodgrain finishes. Our product comes from the best producers and offers woodgrain finishes with rich color, realistic textures, and incredible depth.
UV-lacquer, available in both gloss and matte, features antibacterial properties, perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or anywhere hygiene is important. Slightly more of an investment than TFL, UV-lacquer adds a sleek, modern touch while keeping your surfaces looking fresh and clean. Both materials let you create beautiful, functional spaces tailored to your style.
Rapid fire questions about all things Two30Nine cabinetry:
Q: Do you offer refacing services?
A: We do not offer cabinet re-facing services, as our passion lies in improving the beauty, function, and ergonomics of your space.
Q: How long will the process take?
A: There are several factors that can determine how long it takes from initial meeting to the completion of your new space. The planning stage can take anywhere from 1 to as long as 12 months, depending on the size of the spaces, the pace of your build / renovation, and how quickly you’re able to make decisions. Varying based on the time of year and order volumes, lead-times from order placement to delivery of your new cabinetry can take an average of 12+ weeks. Read this blog to learn more about kitchen renovation timelines!
Q: Where are your cabinets made?
A: Our cabinets are built and finished at the Decor Cabinet factory, located just south of Winnipeg in Morden, Manitoba. While Decor is proud to partner with kitchen & bath dealerships all over North America, at Two30Nine, we are the direct showroom extension of Decor Cabinets. Decor is proud to be Manitoba owned and operated for over 45 years!
Q: Do you sell countertops to go with your cabinets? A: Yes we do! We’re proud to partner with some of the area’s finest countertop brands & fabricators for solid surface and stone countertops. If you’re looking to just update countertops, we’re happy to direct you to one of our preferred fabricators to order direct, as that’s usually the most streamlined approach for those looking to keep existing cabinetry and just update their tops.
Have a question still unanswered? Reach out to us and we would love to answer any questions you may have!