Kitchen Remodeling Blog

How to Save on Granite Countertops

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:35:00 GMT

Granite countertops. Beautiful. Sophisticated. Sleek. Natural. No matter what your personal taste or home décor, there is no doubt a color and style of granite that you will fall in love with. But what about the price? Sure we love the look of granite, but how can we swing getting granite countertops in our home without breaking the bank – how can we save on granite countertops?

Here are some tips on achieving your dream kitchen by adding granite countertops on a budget.

Many people are under the mistaken impression that granite countertops ALWAYS cost more than composite or manufactured products. Not so! As a matter of fact, there are several styles of granite that cost less than similar looking solid surface or quartz products. And while granite may never be less expensive than laminate, it absolutely can be less expensive than solid surface or quartz.

Granite comes in a wide range of color schemes depending on the area of the world in which they are cut. There are ‘standard’ granite colors and ‘exotic’ granite colors. And their cost ranges are as wide as their color ranges. Standard granite colors can cost as little as $35 per square foot installed, while exotic granites can reach upwards of $300 per square foot!

There about a dozen different granite colors which are considered in the industry to be ‘standard.’ According to installers of granite countertops in Maryland, some of the colors considered standard include:

Cinnamon Sand (a medium brown tone with darker brown flecks and veins)

Tan Brown (a darker brown tone with cinnamon, deep brown and black flecks and veins)

Santa Cecilia (a light brown marbled style with black and grey veins and a medium speckled pattern)

Caledonia (a medium grey tone with greenish flecks and lighter grey veins)

Verde Butterfly (a dark green down with cinnamon and lighter green flecks and veins and a varied speckled pattern)

Canelle (a pinkish tone with light pink, grey and dark grey flecks and veins)

Ubatuba (a deep green tone with dark green and black flecks and veins)

Sapphire Blue Brown (a medium to deep brown tone with light brown, dark brown and blue flecks and veins)

Brazil Black (a deep black with dark flecks and veins)

Black Impala (a dark grayish tone with black flecks and a tight speckled pattern)

Baltic Brown (a medium brown with dark green and brown flecks and veins and a large speckled pattern)

Sunset Gold (a light pinkish tone with brown, green and light flecks and a tight speckled pattern)

Luna Pearl (a light to medium grayish tone with dark grey flecks and a tight speckled pattern)

Many of these standard granite colors can be installed by a professional for as little as $35 per square foot. So, depending on the size of your kitchen and its countertop coverage, having granite countertops installed could cost less than $2500. Not bad!

Before you count out granite, do some research. Peruse the web to look at colors and styles that you like. Visit home showrooms to see various colors and style in use (granite can look a whole lot different when you see 10 feet of it compared to a few inches on a swatch), and contact a reputable granite installer who can review your options with you and provide an accurate cost estimate.

Your dream kitchen with granite countertops may just be closer than you think!

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

Why Granite Countertops?

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:28:00 GMT

When choosing the right countertop material for your kitchen, bathroom or bar area, you have a wide variety of choices. And a wide variety of price points! Educating yourself on the options and their costs – both initial investment and lifetime value – will be an effort most worthwhile. In this article, we will outline the various options, and show you how granite can be a high-value option, without the high price.

Laminate Countertops

Let’s start with laminate. Laminate countertops are your basic, low cost countertops. Typically made of a plastic laminate material glued to a pressed wood surface, laminate countertops offer a seemingly limitless array of color and pattern options. Today’s laminate can even mimic the look of natural stone with photographic representations of granite, and edges that are similar in style to those you see on natural stone countertops. But because laminate is the lowest priced countertop option, it has its limitations. Laminate is easily damaged, and not easily repaired. Knives and other sharp objects can scratch or gouge laminate, and heat from hot pans and dishes can scorch or bubble its surface. Since laminate is like a veneer, there is no room to buff out damage. Laminate countertops will not last a lifetime, either. You should expect to need to replace laminate within 10 to 15 years.

Solid Surface Countertops

Next we have synthetic solid surface countertops. The most widely known solid surface countertop product is Corian. Solid surface countertops are composed primarily of plastics with flecks of glass, plastic and other materials to provide color and pattern variations. While solid surface countertops do not look like natural stone, the do provide a seamless look. Because solid surface countertops can be custom fabricated to near any size and specification, long or oddly shaped countertop areas can be covered with one solid piece. Solid surface countertops are scratch and scorch- resistant, and can be repaired if damaged. Many people believe that solid surface countertops are a ‘step below’ granite from an aesthetic perspective, and therefore its pricing may surprise you. Pricing for solid surface countertops – starting at about $40 per linear foot – is actually higher than many granite styles!

Quartz Countertops

Somewhere in between natural stone and synthetic countertops is engineered stone, or quartz countertops. DuPont’s Zodiaq countertops are a popular quartz countertop choice, and are available in stunning color and pattern variations. Quartz countertops are composed of ground quartz which is blended with coloring, synthetic and other materials to form a unique, natural look not found in solid surface countertops. Quartz countertops are pricey, though. With pricing starting at about $45 per linear foot, it too is actually higher in price than some granite.

Recycled Glass Countertops

A new countertop option that is gaining popularity is recycled glass countertops. For homeowners choosing to ‘go green’, recycled glass countertops not only look good, but feels good! Recycled glass is exactly what the name implies. Used glass of all types and colors is broken and ground, and combined with adhesive agents and coloring to form one-of-a-kind colors and patterns. But because there are only a few recycled glass countertop manufacturers – and the product is in high demand – pricing is on the high side.

Granite Countertops

And finally, we have our personal favorite – granite countertops. Granite’s elegance is second to none. Walk into a kitchen with granite countertops and you will immediately take notice. Because granite is natural stone, its color variances and random patterns are unmatched by any man-made material or process. Shopping for granite is fun, too. To choose the right granite for your home, you can visit quarries and showrooms that have large slabs to see. By viewing the granite slab in its entirety, you can see wide patterns and variations not visible in small swatches. Granite is highly durable and resistant to staining, scratching or scorching. Granite can be repaired n some cases, unless the damage is deep or cracked throughout. Granite is a solid value, too. Because it is considered by most to be a luxury item, granite countertops will add resale value to your home. And what most people don’t realize is that this ‘luxury item’ can actually cost less than other less expensive-looking materials.

Save On Granite

Save On Granite offers 10 of the most popular granite styles at just $35 per square foot installed. Of the countertops mentioned above, when it come to price, granite countertops comes in second only to laminate! How’s that for value?

So after you do your homework, visit some showrooms or quarries and talk to others about their experiences, consider granite countertops for your kitchen, bathroom or bar remodeling. You will be glad you did!

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

5 Great Reasons to Choose Granite Countertops

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:22:00 GMT

Granite countertops offer the best in aesthetic value, and while there are countless reasons for choosing granite countertops, here are our top five:

5. Durability, durability, durability.

Granite’s unique and complex structure makes it a poster-child for durability. As the second hardest material on earth landing just short of diamond, granite surfaces last a lifetime. When properly sealed, granite countertops hold up to the highest temperatures, resist staining and scratching, and keep their shine and richness for years to come.

4. Natural, unique and timeless beauty.

That pretty much says it all. Granite’s popularity may be on the rise, but installing a granite countertop means you will always have a one-of-a-kind surface. Because granite is a natural stone, no two pieces are identical. Granite comes in thousands of shades, colors, and patterns, meaning you are bound to find one to match your taste.

3. Granite won’t go out of style.

Granite has been around for centuries, and won’t disappear anytime soon. Its numerous desirable qualities – durability, beauty and value - make it a top choice in households today, and will for years to come. While other countertop materials experience peaks in popularity followed by drifting interest, granite’s track record for remaining at the top of the market makes it a great choice.

2. Low maintenance requirements.

Kitchens are often high-traffic areas, so it’s important to choose a countertop material that is able to withstand the use. Granite is nearly impossible to crack or break, and tolerates high activity without requiring much maintenance at all. A little soap and water, along with regular sealing keep granite countertops looking great.

1. Granite increases home value.

Whether you are installing granite countertops in a new home or replacing existing countertops in preparation for a home’s sale, granite countertops often increase a home’s value. Those on the hunt for a new house often look at the kitchen and adjacent family room spaces first, as those areas generally serve as the main living and entertaining areas. And a kitchen furnished with stunning granite countertops is a huge draw. When dealing with such a significant selling point, installing the right material can make all the difference.

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

Which Granite Countertops Match Your Personality?

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 11:10:00 GMT

What do granite countertops and people have in common? No two are exactly alike. Just like each person is unique, granite’s natural stone formation makes each slab absolutely unique.

If you’re looking to find a granite countertop color that’s in sync with your individuality, consider characteristics of the following granite colors.

Black countertops set an elegant and sophisticated mood, and are often found in homes with a modern and contemporary look. Black is a good match for people wanting to create an aura of formality, and even a hint of mystery.

White countertops offer a feeling of cleanliness and simplicity. They are also perfect for emphasizing open space, making them a popular choice for homeowners trying to make a smaller room appear larger. White is a good choice for those who want to bring a little more light into a room.

Deep red countertops bring warmth, and their rich shades communicate a romantic feeling. Granite countertops in bright red shades attract attention and represent boldness and excitement. All red surfaces are a great choice if you want to make a statement with your décor.

Green countertops often reflect personalities who appreciate nature. The combination of green countertops and wood cabinets in a kitchen mimics the outdoors and offers a versatile color palette for other design elements such as paint and flooring.

Countertops in shades of blue provide a cool, contemporary look, and work well with both white and wood cabinetry. Blue granite often has flecks of opal or silver tones and works well with stainless steel appliances and accents.

Gold countertop surfaces share black’s elegance, with a dash of nature. Granite countertops with gold tones can be dressed up with black accents for a glamorous look, or paired with maple wood tones for a stunning natural look.

Brown and beige granite tones are warm and inviting, and compliment many color schemes. Since neutral shades offer flexibility when it comes to matching surrounding décor, they are perfect for homeowners who love to change styles often.

If you match more than one color, or share one quality here and another there, don’t worry! Granite surfaces rarely come in solid colors. Instead intricate patterns, flecks of other colors and various designs usually enhance the underlying shade.

Granite is available in thousands of colors and shades, and choosing your favorite can be overwhelming. But, if you take the time to do your homework, you’ll find the perfect match before you know it!

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

Granite Countertops: Think Outside the Kitchen

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:58:00 GMT

When most people hear the words ‘granite countertops’ they instantly think of kitchens. While granite countertops are perfect for kitchens, granite’s value and appeal reaches far beyond.

Because of granite’s beauty and lasting durability, it is no surprise that homeowners are taking advantage of it in outdoor areas, laundry and mud rooms, basements and more.

Here are a few ideas for incorporating granite countertops outside of the kitchen:

Laundry Rooms

Laundry rooms no longer meet the typical description of small, messy rooms located in basements. Current trends see homeowners transforming them into more luxurious, functional areas and moving them to the main level of the home for ease of use. Along with new appliances and larger spaces, homeowners are installing granite countertops to create durable work spaces. Granite can handle the wear and tear of a high-traffic laundry room, and adds a bit of useable sophistication to a previously under-utilized room.

Mud Rooms

Whether unloading items after a long day, shedding dirty sports apparel, suiting up for the outdoors or washing the family dog, today’s hectic lifestyles have prompted an increase in the need for mud rooms. Don’t let the name fool you – mud rooms need not be ugly! Mud rooms’ aesthetic appeal and functionality are easily enhanced with granite countertops, cabinetry and creative storage areas.

Outdoor Areas

Granite’s tough durability and easy maintenance requirements makes it ideal for outdoor areas. Whether you need a surface for an outdoor kitchen, bar top or seating space, granite is a natural choice. After installing and sealing granite surfaces, they easily withstand the elements and last a lifetime. Unlike several other countertop materials, granite doesn’t fade with exposure to sunlight and is resistant to staining, making it perfect for any outdoor area.

Basements

Creating a functional and appealing basement can add value to any home and maximize its usable space. This means basements are no longer just an after-thought when it comes to décor. Whether building a home theatre, game room, general entertainment area or extra bedroom and living space, granite countertops can improve the appeal of your basement. Some possibilities for using granite include surfaces for kitchen or bar areas, island dividers and serving areas.

Other Rooms

Granite is versatile enough to suit any room in your home. For instance, family rooms and dining rooms with built-in cabinets are perfectly accented with elegant granite.

Now when you think of granite, you’ll be prepared to envision it throughout your entire home. Granite’s one-of-a-kind beauty and durability makes it a wonderful material in the kitchen and beyond!

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

Increase Your Home's Value with Granite Kitchen Countertops

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:21:00 GMT

If you’re preparing your home for sale, are experiencing trouble finding a buyer, or just planning for the future, it may be time to consider installing new granite countertops.

Granite kitchen countertops are in high demand, making them a perfect remodeling project for increasing your home’s value and cinching a sale. In fact, new granite countertops can add thousands to your home’s resale value.

Now you may be wondering…how can installing granite countertops increase my home’s entire resale value? Here are a few ways granite kitchen countertops payoff.

Kitchens are Major Selling Points

When it comes to the housing market, great kitchens attract potential buyers and serve as one of your home’s most important selling points. Kitchens are where families spend time together preparing and eating meals; children have fun with arts and crafts; and guests are entertained. This means any kitchen upgrade, especially installing new granite countertops, positively influences a home’s value.

Adding the Right Qualities

Granite kitchen countertops add value because of their durability, beauty and extensive list of preferable qualities. Granite offers unique surfaces with beauty only found in nature. Homeowners also choose granite countertops for their ease of maintenance and longevity. Granite holds up in high traffic areas and lasts a lifetime with little effort. This makes granite countertops ideal for kitchens, and ultimately, the right surface for increasing a home’s value.

Granite is Affordable

Fortunately, granite countertops are now more affordable than ever, so having them installed won’t empty your bank account. Even better, granite is offered in a wide variety of colors and shades. This makes it easy to find a granite surface to match your existing kitchen décor.

Tips for Choosing the Right Granite Kitchen Countertop

Now that you know how granite countertops can increase your home’s resale value, consider the following tips before starting the countertop replacement process.

If you’re replacing countertops in preparation to sell your home, stick with a neutral color. Buyers want to be able to imagine themselves in your home. Although a bright surface might fit your taste, a neutral color is more likely to be a fit for a larger number of people.
If you don’t already have one, consider having a granite island countertop installed in your kitchen. The extra space is great for food preparation and storage, and serves as a focal point for your room.
For smaller rooms, granite that is lighter in color can help make areas feel more open and spacious.
Finding the right contractor to install new granite kitchen countertops is important for getting the job done right, and making sure your investment pays off.

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

I Want Granite Countertops!

Fri, 18 Jun 2010 10:06:00 GMT

Although granite countertops have been available for decades, they are currently in high demand and more popular than ever. While in the past granite was considered a luxury available only to the wealthy, it now attracts homeowners of all tastes and income levels.

Several impressive qualities help explain why granite has secured its place as a popular choice among homeowners, including natural beauty, durability, availability and more affordable prices.

Market analysis reports list granite as one of the most popular countertop surfaces, and predict its popularity to grow, despite the rising number of choices in countertop materials.

A study from The Freedonia Group, Inc., a Cleveland-based industry research firm, claims the demand for granite kitchen and bathroom countertops will continue increasing 1.3 percent annually, determining its use will rise to 540 million square feet by 2011. The firm’s report “Residential Kitchen & Bathroom Countertops”, forecasts countertop demand to rise 2.4 percent by 2013, with granite and other natural stone countertops as the fastest growing segment.

Along with unbeatable qualities and lower prices, granite’s rising popularity stems from a few less obvious sources. One such source is reality television and the rise of cooking and remodeling shows. As chefs prepare dishes on granite surfaces, and contractors provide home makeovers that inevitably include granite, homeowners crave their own granite kitchen countertops.

Granite is not just a trend – it’s here to stay. And its staying power is partly due to its reliability. While homeowners always seek beautiful countertops, today’s face-paced lifestyle demands surfaces that also withstand high use and require little maintenance. Granite meets both demands beautifully, withstanding high temperatures, resisting stains and requiring only regular cleaning and periodic sealing.

Homeowners can’t deny that granite offers everything they could ever dream of in a countertop. Here are just a few of granite’s impressive qualities:

Unmatched durability. Granite is the second hardest surface, just behind diamond. Granite resists damage related to heat, stains, dents and cracks.

Natural and unique beauty. Granite is a natural stone and no two pieces are identical.

Increase in home value. Granite countertops offer homeowners a boost in home value and attracts buyers.

Affordability. Granite costs less than ever, with some varieties costing less than solid surface and quartz countertops.

Variety. Granite is available in countless colors and shades, meaning there is something to match everyone’s taste.

Source: Save On Granite, http://www.SaveOnGranite.com

How are marble countertops maintained?

Fri, 18 Dec 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Although not best for frequently used countertops, marble is a unique choice that adds a sophisticated look. When in doubt of marble’s strength, it is safe to use it on an island or inset at a baking center.

Marble countertops and tabletops are easily stained by acidic foods like fruit, tomato sauce, coffee, and wine. Blot, do not wipe, any spills up immediately, and then clean with mild soap and hot water. Do not set hot pans directly onto marble. And place a mat or pad between marble and anything which might scratch it, like a pan or utensils.

Use coasters between marble and any glasses, especially ones containing acidic compounds like fruit juices, wine, or coffee.

On marble countertops, avoid harsh cleaners and acidic cleaners, including vinegar. Marble is a sensitive stone, but with proper care, these surfaces can last a lifetime.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Why choose engineered stone countertops?

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Engineered stone countertops have gained much popularity in recent years due to its strength, variety of choices, and exceptionally low maintenance needs. These are the most durable surfaces, are resistant to stains and heat damage, and have no need for sealing.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Why choose solid surface countertops?

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Solid surface countertops have a clean and uniform appearance. These surfaces are very durable and most scratches can be sanded out. Solid surfaces can also be custom fit to a unique countertop shape.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

What is the price of granite?

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Lower-end granite countertops are very affordable in the scheme of countertop material pricing.

Concrete: $75-200 per square foot
Soapstone: $50-200 per square foot
Solid Surface: $40-150 per square foot
Engineered Stone: $40-125 per square foot
Granite: $30-200 per square foot
Marble: $30-100 per square foot
Laminate: $5-20 per square foot

On a tight budget? Don’t count granite countertops out yet. There are many strategies you should consider if you want granite but think you may not be able to afford it.

Have granite installed in square pieces, not as one solid piece. This gives you the same natural beauty but for a much lower cost than solid stone. This also makes for easier repairs.
Granite varies in quality. Factors such as country of origin, color, veins or patterns, thickness of slab, amount of soft minerals in the stone and current fashion trends can impact prices of granite.
Paying attention to the number of seams and cuts that will have to be made in stone slabs can keep the price to a minimum.
Ask professionals about wasted material as you may be charged for it.
Hire professionals. Failing to properly install a granite countertop can result in an extremely expensive mistake to fix.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

How do I install granite countertops?

Sat, 15 Aug 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Granite countertops should be installed by a professional. Although hiring someone to install your countertops adds to the cost of the project, in the end, it is worth it to have the job done right. Installing granite countertops incorrectly can lead to serious problems and possibly the need for replacement.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Kitchen Cabinet Types and Styles

Sun, 09 Aug 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Cabinets usually come in one of three types: stock, semi-custom and custom. Stock Cabinets are available in standard sizes and shapes. Stock cabinets are the least expensive but your choices are limited when it comes to cabinet design and function. Since these cabinets do not come in special sizes, they may require filler strips to close gaps between a cabinet and a wall.

Semi-Custom Cabinets are the middle-of-the-road choice. They come in a wider variety of sizes and shapes than stock cabinets and offer more colors, including a wider variety of wood types and staining.

Custom Cabinets give you endless choices and flexibility when choosing kitchen cabinets in design, style, color, wood type, etc. Although they are more expensive than the other two types, they are well made to fit your individual kitchen and give you a unique look.

Cabinets do not only come in a variety of colors and materials, they also come in a variety of styles to match your kitchen. Since cabinets are a major part of your kitchen’s look, carefully consider the overall look you are trying to create before choosing a cabinet style. You can even mix styles to create a unique look. Here are some options when choosing a style for your kitchen cabinets:

Country

Modern

Southwestern

Victorian

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

What are the variations in thickness of granite slabs?

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Granite comes in a variety of thicknesses. The most popular is a 3 cm thickness (1-1/4”) but it is also available in a 2 cm thickness (3/4”). The weight of a slab is approximately 12-13 lbs per square foot in 2 cm thickness and 18-19 lbs per square foot in 3 cm thickness. An 8-foot countertop slab 3 cm in thickness weighs between 144-152 lbs. The thicknesses can vary throughout the slab as much as +/- 3 mm. Because granite is not a uniform thickness throughout the entire slab, installers compensate for the variations with additional support. Laminate is normally 1/8” thick panels attached to typically a ¾” thick wood product. Solid surface material comes in three standard sizes ¼”, ½”, or ¾” thickness. Soapstone is typically 1-1/4” in thickness, marble 1-3/4” to 2”, concrete 1-1/2” to 2”, and engineered stone comes in 1-1/4” thickness.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Can granite be repaired and what is its approximate life expectancy?

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 15:48:00 GMT

In most cases, if granite is cracked, it will need to be completely removed and replaced.

When granite enters your home, not only is it already thousands of years old, but it will probably last another thousand years. To begin with, granite is tough. It is stain, scratch and heat resistant, just to name a few of its impressive features.

Experts say that using your granite countertops as a cutting board won’t hurt the countertops only dull your knives, and unless you try cutting granite with a diamond or smashing it with a sledge hammer, it won’t crack or break. Furthermore, it can withstand temperatures up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit (482.22 degrees Celcius ) without causing damage. These are just a few of the reasons why granite countertops can last a lifetime.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

What factors determine the price of countertops?

Tue, 19 May 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Quality and type of material
Difficulty of installation
Edge treatment material and design
Backsplash material and design

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Do granite countertops add value to my home?

Wed, 22 Apr 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Countertops made of natural stone, especially granite, add more resale value to your home than any other material. Second, granite countertops will last you a lifetime, which means that after the cost of the initial installation (with proper maintenance and care) they never need to be replaced.

If you are set on granite countertops, but still have concerns about the costs there are several ways to lower the expense. One possibility is choosing granite based on the place from which it was imported. For example, some experts say that buying granite imported from Italy tends to be the most expensive option, while choosing granite imported from China can save you money.

Even if granite countertops remain out of your price range, there is still hope for the future. As with any product, as its popularity rises and it becomes widely used, the price often lowers. Also, with new quarries being discovered each year, the growing choices keep prices down.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Hiring a Contractor for a Kitchen Remodeling Job

Mon, 09 Mar 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Remodeling a kitchen is no small task. This type of project can be complicated and time consuming, so hiring the right contractor is essential to creating the kitchen of your dreams. Hiring a professional contractor can save you time and money in the long-run by saving you from making mistakes which may require pricey repairs. Also, kitchen remodeling requires a lot of specialized work that only a professional should do. If you are unqualified, performing these tasks can be dangerous and detrimental to your project goals.

Here are some helpful tips on how to find just the right contractor for your kitchen remodeling project:

Ask friends, family, and neighbors for recommendations.
Make sure contractors have the proper license.
Ask contractors for references, and check with those references for feedback.
Talk to multiple contractors and get at least 3 estimates.
Get a written contract that states all details and expenses.
Don’t pay the full amount until you are satisfied with the final job.
Make sure you can communicate with the contractor and that he or she will listen to your opinions, concerns, and questions.
Find out if your project will need any permits and ask who is responsible for obtaining them.

Since remodeling a kitchen can be a large project, expect building and renovations to last for several days. Depending on your personal needs and the size of the project, you may have to stay out of your kitchen while it is being remodeled. Talk to your contractor about ways to make the process work for both of you.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Kitchen Flooring: Stone Tile

Mon, 16 Feb 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Stone tile flooring has a natural look and is strong and durable. It comes in several textures and colors and no two pieces are the same. Stone tiles can look traditional and rustic or contemporary and elegant. Although this flooring option can be expensive, stone tiles have the potential to last a lifetime.

Stone tile floors are generally easy to maintain, usually requiring only a mop for cleaning. For extra durability, stone should be periodically sealed. Since kitchens can become busy and messy places, you should choose stone tiles that are resistant to moisture damage and staining.

Granite tile flooring is one of the better options for kitchen flooring because it is denser and more durable than other stone options. Granite is still susceptible to stains so it should be sealed and periodically resealed for regular maintenance.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/

Kitchen Flooring: Vinyl

Sat, 10 Jan 2009 15:48:00 GMT

Vinyl flooring is an affordable and aesthetically pleasing choice for kitchen flooring. Because of its durability and moisture resistance it is primarily used in busy areas of the home such as kitchens and bathrooms. Another reason for its popularity is that it can, much like laminate, be made to imitate other flooring materials such as stone, marble, and wood. Vinyl flooring is often referred to by the popular manufacturers’ trade names Linoleum® and Congoleum®.

Vinyl is made of plastic, or more specifically polyvinyl chloride – abbreviated PVC – to which other compounds are added. It can consist of either multiple layers of material or just one layer.

It is manufactured using one of two processes: inlay or rotovinyl. With inlay vinyl, color and pattern are imbedded into the vinyl layers, while with rotovinyl only a single layer of vinyl is printed with color and pattern. Both manufacturing processes require a protective coating overlay in order to boost durability.

Inlay vinyl flooring, which is only available in tile form, offers great wear resistance since the colors and patterns go all the way through the flooring material. Rotovinyl comes in both sheet and tile form. Resistance to wear is dependent on the type of protective coating used during the manufacturing process.

Vinyl floors are very easy to maintain. Sweeping or using a dust mop is often all that is needed.

Source: Express Countertops, http://www.expresscountertops.com/