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Updated: Tue, 30 May 2006 09:49:46


Cabinets - Counters
Granite Countertops on Half Walls
Granite countertops are very heavy. When you try to balance one on a thin half wall, bad things can happen. Countertops that are not properly supported can flip and crash to the ground. Furthermore, the short wall needs to be braced so it does not wobble and tip.


Cabinets - Counters
Granite Countertop Stains
Granite countertops are beautiful, but remember, they will stain. Try to keep oils and liquids off of granite before it is sealed and stained countertops will be a thing of the past.


Cabinets - Counters
Concrete Countertops
Concrete countertops are spectacular looking. However, if you plan to install your own countertops be prepared to work hard. Your skills must run to finish carpentry and concrete finishing. Perhaps a skilled concrete countertop installation is called for.


Cabinets - Counters
Outdoor Kitchen Countertops
There are many choices for your outdoor countertops but concrete may be the best choice. You can blend in color and stones to make the color you desire. Concrete countertops will do well in the most harsh weather. Don't forget to look at slate, granite and ceramic tiles. When done correctly countertop installation outdoors will look great.


Cabinets - Counters
Granite and Solid Surface Countertops
There is no countertop that is indestructible. However, you can install countertops that with a little bit of attention will look and last for a long time. Granite countertops and natural stone composite tops are both good choices.

Cabinets - Counters
Installing Ceramic Tile in a Damaged Formica Countertop
Damaged formica countertop? Ceramic tile to the rescue! Yes, on more than one occasion ceramic tile has come to the aid of a frantic homeowner or builder who has burned or deeply scratched a laminate countertop. In addition, the repairs to make the transition can be handled by anyone with just moderate skills. There are just one or two critical steps to installing ceramic tile and the rest is a breeze!

Cabinets - Counters
Laminate Countertops Can Be Repaired
Repairs to laminate countertops can be done easily. Instead of painting laminate countertops you may want to install tile inlays. You will need some simple tools, correct measurements and the perfect tile. Be sure to reinforce the countertop as you will weaken it when you cut into it.


Cabinets - Counters
Stencil Companies & Sources
From local craft stores to the Internet, stencil patterns can be found anywhere in a variety of shapes, sizes and designs. Here is a list of some well-known stencil companies.

Cabinets - Counters
Stenciling Countertops - Patterns and Stencil Makers
Stencils are an inexpensive and impressive way to embellish many surfaces. Applying stencils to kitchen countertops and continuing the design onto the backsplash is a creative way to customize your kitchen. Be sure to seal your stenciling with at least 3 coats of clear urethane to protect the design for years to come.

Cabinets - Counters
New Countertops with Paint
You can create new countertops in just a few days with little or no money. Painting countertops and stenciling designs on them will transform your kitchen. Start with clean countertops, paint supplies and some stenciling ideas and you are half way there. With the correct finish your countertops will last a lifetime.


Cabinets - Counters
Plastic Laminate Cleaning and Care Tips
While plastic laminate appears to be the wonder material, it requires care to keep it looking like new. As long as you follow a few easy steps, your laminate will look great for years to come. Pay particular attention to soaps. I was amazed at what I learned while researching this topic!

Cabinets - Counters
Plastic Laminate and Its Uses
Do you know someone who hasn't experienced or seen plastic laminate, especially in countertops? I can't think of a soul. Plastic laminate counters dominated the kitchen countertop market for years. They had virtually no competition. They are still immensely popular today, as they offer a durable surface which is quite affordable. Plastic laminate can also offer a huge return on investment. Recent published figures show that a minor kitchen remodeling job offers a 98 percent return on your remodeling dollar. A minor kitchen remodeling job almost always includes a new plastic laminate countertop.

Cabinets - Counters
Plastic Laminate Manufacturers
Call the following manufacturers if you would like to receive some beautiful color literature illustrating all the colors, patterns, styles, etc. of plastic laminate and edge treatments. Be sure to ask for both pieces of literature. In almost all instances, they will tell you the location of their closest dealer.

Cabinets - Counters
Plastic Laminate Countertops
Getting ready to replace your countertops? Try plastic laminate again. Plastic laminate countertops are easier to care for, more durable than before and better looking. Try laminate edge moldings or wood edging to get rid of that ugly brown edge.

Cabinets - Counters
Kitchen Design Suggestions and Recommendations
Kitchens are, by far, one of the most popular remodeling projects at this time. Even in new construction, kitchens receive great attention. Our changing lifestyles and interest in health make the kitchen a central room in the house. In many homes, the kitchen is the most heavily used room. If this is true in your case, then you want the room to be as functional as possible. Function doesn't happen by accident. You need to think and plan. Following are some ideas that you might want to consider when a kitchen remodel job or new home is on the horizon.

Cabinets - Counters
Solid Surface Countertops
Some of the great things about solid surface countertops are their resistance to stains and their ability to inhibit the growth of germs or bacteria. They are also extremely durable and repairable and they carry their color and design straight through their thickness. Consider solid surface countertop installation.

Cabinets - Counters
Solid Surface Countertop Materials
Advancements in plastics technology within the past twenty years have brought new, durable plastics into our kitchen countertops. These solid surface countertops have dropped in price and include the marble, granite and slate surfaces we see today - with excellent resistance to stains and weight. These countertops are not only beautiful, but easily cut, installed and withstand household kitchen traffic.

Cabinets - Counters
Solid Surface Countertop Manufacturers
Following is a list of the major manufacturers of solid surface countertop materials. Look at their web sites and be sure to check the specification sheets. These sheets usually describe the composition and materials used in the product. This is important, as you should try to determine which material has the highest percentage of acrylic plastic.


 
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