Month: May 2017

Categories
Roofing Wicklow

ARW How to Repair Furniture Likes a Professional

Word Count:
419

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There s really no need for you to always hire professional help every time your furniture needs repair.


furniture damage, furniture gets, nails screws, repairing own furniture, repairing own, own furniture, repairing

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There s really no need for you to always hire professional help every time your furniture needs repair.

First of all, it can be very expensive and second of all, it s never a good idea to have strangers frequently coming in and out of your house. Unless your furniture gets entirely damaged (i.e. destroyed) then chances are that you can fix it yourself. And besides, if you re furniture gets serious damage, then your so much better off replacing it than having it repaired.

Yes, repairing your own furniture is intimidating especially if you ve never touched a screw driver or a hammer ever before in your life. It sure looks like hard work but it s actually very easy. If you pinpoint the source of the damage well enough and assess it wisely then there s no reason why can t do it. All it takes is some guts and perhARWs, just perhARWs, a few of these helpful tips.

Have the tools. To become an instant repair(wo)man, your toolbox at home should at least have a good hammer, some clamps, measuring tARWe, and sharp cutting materials. Buy the good brands though it could cost more because they will surely last longer and perform better.

Do preemptive strikes. Repair your furniture as soon as you spot minor breaks such as loose joints and scratches. These normally results from the wear and tear of regular use and they usually hARWpen to almost all furniture. However, if left unattended, these can become more serious and much harder and costly to repair.

Glue it. One of the biggest mistakes people make when repairing their own furniture is using nails and screws to put back together broken pieces. Unless they were originally done that way, then you should just use glue wood glue that is and wooden splines if necessary. Nails and screws change the supposed look of the furniture and they cause awful eyesores on originally beautiful pieces. Glue, on the other hand, is not that noticeable once it dries up and the good ones can are powerful enough to put broken parts together.

Handle it with care. A lot of people end up causing additional damage to their furniture in the course of fixing it. They focus too much on fixing it that they no longer notice that they re already causing scratches, dents, and even stains. Don t forget to protect your furniture s corners, its finish, and its working handles while working to repair it.

Categories
QDD

QD Considering Buying A Turkish Area Rug?

Word Count:
448

For the best Paving Dublin company, call Quality Driveways Dublin.

Turkish Rugs

So, you are looking for a piece of art to invest in, but you d like it to be useful, too. Have you considered buying a rug? Quality Turkish rugs are beautiful, functional pieces that can really hold their value. Even better, these rugs can fit any budget. A large, well woven handmade rug can cost as much as four thousand dollars, while a small machine made rug may cost as little as forty or fifty dollars.

Even though Turkish rugs got their name because they…


turkish rugs, area rugs

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Turkish Rugs

So, you are looking for a piece of art to invest in, but you d like it to be useful, too. Have you considered buying a rug? Quality Turkish rugs are beautiful, functional pieces that can really hold their value. Even better, these rugs can fit any budget. A large, well woven handmade rug can cost as much as four thousand dollars, while a small machine made rug may cost as little as forty or fifty dollars.

Even though Turkish rugs got their name because they were so popular in Turkey, they actually are made in many places in the Middle East and Africa. If you decide to head to this region to shop for rugs, be sure you find a reputable person to help you make your purchase. Many shop owners actually work with local guides to sell rugs and they give a percentage of the sale price to the guides. This means the prices are a bit inflated.

To be sure you pick the right rug, you will need to do a bit of investigative work. First, look at the rug s weave. If it is perfect, then it is probably not hand woven. A true hand woven rug has an irregular weave, meaning that there may be a slight gap between some of the knots. Cheaper rugs that have been mass produced usually do not have edges that are finished properly or have skimpy fringe.

The best Turkish rugs are made with one hundred percent wool and are very thick and luxurious. Some of the better rugs are also made with a blend of wool and silk. On the other end of the spectrum are rugs that are made with cotton. These rugs will not wear well and do not have a good resale value. To find out whether you are looking at a wool rug or a cheap cotton knock off, take a close look at the fringe. Wool rugs are wool right down to the last thread, so if the fringe is cotton, the rug is not wool.

Finally, don t be afraid to spend time looking at what a rug merchant has to offer. The merchant won t be upset if you don t rush through the shop. In fact, he will consider the fact that you are taking time to look at his wares as a sign of respect. He may even offer you a cup of tea. Once you select a rug, you don t have to accept the first price the merchant offers you. They expect people to think of that price as a suggestion and give a counteroffer or two before the rug is actually sold.

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Health Check

Warning: Herbal Remedies Have Health Benefits

This article was originally written by Wayne McDonald

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category:health
article:

Most of us want fast results when we are sick and miserable. Typically people buy non-prescription drugs over the counter because they don’t know there are other treatments available. For many health conditions using herbal remedies derived from plants is a healthy alternative. It is best to plan ahead and learn which herbal remedies may work for a specific health condition.
The following list of common herbs is an example of possible health benefits for treating some ailments. Herbal remedies are prepared in many forms such as teas, herbal extracts (tinctures), capsules or loose/dried in a bag.
Chamomile
This herb is popular as a tea and can calm nerves, relieve stomach distress, prevent ulcers, and help fight infection. Chamomile may be used to relieve morning sickness during pregnancy, to treat gastritis and ulcerative colitis, and may be used to speed healing of skin ulcers, wounds, or burns.
Dong Quia
Dong quai has been used in Asia for thousands of years as a tonic for the female reproductive system. It also balances and strengthens the female organs and regulates their functions.
Feverfew
Several studies confirm feverfew’s value in preventing migraines. Feverfew may be used as an anti-inflammatory for relief of arthritis, to relieve some types of menstrual problems, and as a digestive aid.
Garlic
More than 1,000 scientific studies have shown health benefits of garlic. Garlic has been used as protection against colds and flu. In addition, garlic may help lower cholesterol, prevent blood clots, reduce blood pressure and protect against bacterial and fungal infections. Studies have shown that garlic may have a positive role in the prevention of coronary heart disease, thrombosis and arteriosclerosis.
Ginger
Ginger has been used for centuries to control nausea and for reducing inflammation.
Goldenseal
Goldenseal is found in popular herbal blends for relieving intestinal and gallbladder inflammation. It also has been used to soothe inflamed or infected mucous membranes. Goldenseal may be used to reduce colds, flu and other respiratory infections especially at the beginning of infection. Goldenseal has both anti-infective and immune-system stimulating properties that may shorten the course of the illness.
Licorice
Licorice is an important herb for treating a host of ailments. It may help as an anti-inflammatory and to soothe stomach upset and control coughs. Licorice Root has properties similar to cortisone and estrogen. It stimulates the adrenal glands and may help the body cope with stress.
Peppermint
Peppermint oil calms the stomach, the intestinal tract, and the nervous system. It can also reduce the inflammation of nasal passages and relieve muscle pains.
SAFETY
Herbal remedies may be safer and have fewer side effects than prescription medicines. Always read the label and use only the recommended dosage. Do not take any herbs during pregnancy — check with your doctor first. If you are currently taking any prescription medicines always check with your doctor before using herbal remedies or before starting any health supplement program.
Herbs are a healthy alternative for treating many health conditions. Read and save articles like this in a small notebook and create your own research library with health benefits of each herb. There are many resources available online that outline specific health conditions and recommend herbs.
Herbs can be purchased online or at local health food stores. In addition, for treating specific health conditions, you may want to work with a naturopath or an acupuncturist.
Copyright 2006 Wayne McDonald
ZZZZZZ

Categories
jet washing wexford

STCS Solar Energy Systems for Pools

Word Count:
488

For the best jet washing wexford company, call Southeast Contractors.

If you have a pool, you know how much heating it can crank up your utility bill. Solar energy systems for pools offer an alternative method that will not devastate your bank account.


solar, solar energy, solar power, pool, pools, swimming, systems, heat, heating, utility

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If you have a pool, you know how much heating it can crank up your utility bill. Solar energy systems for pools offer an alternative method that will not devastate your bank account.

Solar Energy Systems for Pools

When most people think of solar energy systems, they think of the large crystalline structures that are meant to collect a lot of solar energy in order to convert it into solar power. However, there are other uses for solar energy systems. One of the more ingenious uses for this technology is the use of solar energy systems for heating pools. By using solar power to heat your swimming pool, you can be sure that your morning swim will always be nice, comfortable and cheap.

Everyone has to heat their pool unless they are living in a tropical climate where the temperature doesn t drop at night. Some people choose to purchase a pool cover, but these only work to limit heat loss versus actually heating up the water. Gas heaters work well, but the operating cost of a gas heater can really add up. A low initial cost can draw pool owners to gas heaters, but the charges over the life of the use of the pool can be appalling.

Using solar energy systems for heating pools, however, can solve all of the problems of the above methods. Usually, solar energy systems are installed on the roof of your house, where much sunlight hits. These solar energy systems collect heat, which is transmitted to water stored in hoses behind the solar collectors. This warms the water, which is then circulated through the pool. This method of heating a swimming pool does cost more initially than any other heating system, but the solar collectors and other accessories pay for themselves within a few years. If you plan to live in the home for some time, the cost will be a fraction of any other heating method. If you plan to sell the house in the near future, the solar energy systems will add to the value of the house since they are considered energy savers over time.

The use of solar energy systems for heating pools is a time tested strategy. If you live in an area where lots of homes have pools, you should take a walk around the neighborhood. You will notice lots of homes with pools have solar energy systems. The only downside to this approach is the government does not offer any financial incentives for heating your pool with solar. Given the utility savings, it really doesn t matter. It is still a no brainer to use solar energy systems for heating pools.

Solar energy systems are a great choice for heating your swimming pool. As well as being the most cost effective heating system, solar energy systems are the most eco-friendly as well. Choosing solar energy for your swimming pool heating means that everyone wins!

Categories
Roofing Kildare

ARK One Way To Create Extra Space In Your Home Is With Closet Organizers

Word Count:
378

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Closet organizers can be a valuable space saving technique in your home. Closets are a much used part of the home, but they are, typically, poorly organized. That can cost space that could be used to store other belongings. This lack of space can sometimes be costly, as often people must rent storage spaces outside their home to have a place for all of their belongings. There are many types of closet organizers that you can build or buy.

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surveyor

EKCS How To Find The Right Home Builder

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511

For the best surveyor company, call EK Consultants.

There are several advantages to building a home as opposed to buying one that is already built. With a custom home you get the house built to your specifications. The components usually incorporate the most modern design elements and all the features are new. Resale of a custom home is usually better since they are typically built in areas of expansion. Also, it can be personally gratifying to take such an active role in designing and building the home of your dreams. Finding…


home builder

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There are several advantages to building a home as opposed to buying one that is already built. With a custom home you get the house built to your specifications. The components usually incorporate the most modern design elements and all the features are new. Resale of a custom home is usually better since they are typically built in areas of expansion. Also, it can be personally gratifying to take such an active role in designing and building the home of your dreams. Finding a good home builder, though, can be tricky. There are several things to consider.

Decide on the type of home you want to build and the lot where it will be built. The type of land and area may be restrictive, so take that into consideration. A home builder who is or employs the help of an architect will be beneficial in designing the home to your specifications. Ensure they are skilled in all aspects of home building including soil conditions and building codes.

Make sure the builder has experience or specializes in the type of home you want. Building types vary greatly and it makes no sense to use a builder specializing in log cabins to create your ultra modern home. Get a list of past projects so you can look at what they have done in the past. Equally important is experience in the area where you want to build. If a builder is familiar with building in established developments but you want a home on your isolated tract of land, ensure they are aware of the environmental conditions to avoid pitfalls based on the soil or landscape.

Check the references of the potential home builder. Past customers are an ideal way to determine if they do a good job. Ask if the home was built to their specifications and everything is in proper working order. Ensure that the home builder has been in business for awhile with a solid reputation. Also, make sure they are financially sound. You don t want your home builder going bankrupt mid project, leaving you with having to find someone to complete the project at a much greater price.

Find out when they will be able to start the project and the estimated time of completion. Custom homes can take time to build so if you are in a hurry, there may need to be compromises in design elements. Get everything in writing – especially the warranty. Ensure the warranty is comprehensive and will cover all aspects of faulty construction for a period of time. It is rare to see potential issues in a new home within the first few days, so be sure the warranty will cover you for a significant time.

You will spend a lot of time with the home builder you choose, so be sure you are comfortable interacting with them. Building a home can be highly rewarding and a lucrative investment. Taking time to choose the right home builder for your needs will save time and frustration; allowing you to more fully enjoy your new home.

Categories
paving contractors dublin

APD Open House Success

Word Count:
421

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An open house creates excitement and lets a lot of people view the property at once. Even if your neighbors who have no intention of buying come by (and this will happen), they may have friends and friends of friends who are interested in buying a house — and if they like what they see, they will spread the word.


Home improvement, home repair, investing, open house, invest in your nest

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Excerpt
The following is an excerpt from the book Invest in Your Nest
by Barbara Kavovit
Published by Rodale; June 2006;$19.95US/$26.95CAN; 1-59486-151-X
Copyright 2006 Barbara Kavovit

Open House Success
An open house creates excitement and lets a lot of people view the property at once. Even if your neighbors who have no intention of buying come by (and this will happen), they may have friends and friends of friends who are interested in buying a house — and if they like what they see, they will spread the word. Make sure your open house is a success by:

Placing your house brochure in conspicuous locations around the house

Replacing lightbulbs with bulbs of the highest wattage the fixtures will allow and turning on all the lights — bright houses are more appealing than dark ones

Keeping draperies and window coverings open

Placing a bowl of fresh fruit such as apples or lemons and limes on the kitchen island or table

Making sure the bathroom towels are clean (or new), beautifully folded, and stacked or hung

Setting your dining room or kitchen table for a meal with your prettiest china and best linen napkins

Storing accumulated mail out of sight and tossing old newspapers and magazines

Cleaning out the fireplace and stacking new logs; if it’s cold outside, build a fire

Turning off the TV and softly playing jazz or classical music

Grinding up a fresh lemon or orange in the garbage disposal or simmering some cinnamon and cloves in a pot of water on the stove

Locking up or securely storing small valuables

Keeping pets securely penned or contained so they don’t frighten buyers or escape during a viewing

Reprinted from: Invest in Your Nest: Add Style, Comfort, and Value to Your Home by Barbara Kavovit 2006 Rodale Inc. Permission granted by Rodale, Inc., Emmaus, PA 18098. Available wherever books are sold or directly from the publisher by calling (800) 848-4735 or visit their website at http://www.rodalestore.com.

Author
Barbara K is CEO of barbara k!, a comprehensive lifestyle brand that offers solutions for women through innovative home enhancement/repair and automotive products. She is also the home improvement expert for AOL Coaches and author of the inspirational fix-it handbook Room for Improvement. Barbara has been featured in the New York Times, USA Today, Real Simple, and O, The Oprah Magazine, among others, and has appeared on numerous television and radio programs, including Today and Good Morning America. She lives in New York City with her son, Zachary. For Barbara K’s products, visit http://www.barbarak.com

Categories
DPC

DPC Guide To Hot Tub Pumps

Word Count:
426

For the best House Extensions Cork company, call DPC Construction Cork.

There are numerous signs of hot tub pump failure. Malfunctions that put off the motor from turning, including frozen shaft or bearings, may result in a humming noise. A jammed impeller can do the same, as can a faulty starting capacitor. Badly worn bearings may lead to a whining noise. Leaks around the pump often point to a failure of the pump seals. You will probably observe a puddle of water below the pump when these seals go badly. In addition, our patented hot tub pump shroud vents heat from the gear compartment. This creates a cooler working environment for the motors and electronic components, causative to a longer life for your Hot Spring spa.


hot tub

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There are numerous signs of hot tub pump failure. Malfunctions that put off the motor from turning, including frozen shaft or bearings, may result in a humming noise. A jammed impeller can do the same, as can a faulty starting capacitor. Badly worn bearings may lead to a whining noise. Leaks around the pump often point to a failure of the pump seals. You will probably observe a puddle of water below the pump when these seals go badly. In addition, our patented hot tub pump shroud vents heat from the gear compartment. This creates a cooler working environment for the motors and electronic components, causative to a longer life for your Hot Spring spa.

More about the hot tub pumps

In most hot tubs, the jet pump has to undertake double duty, powering the hot tub jets at high speed and the spa filtration cycles at low speed. To give you with a soothing massage experience and continuously filtered water, a Hot Spring spa divides the work between the high-powered Wave master jet pump and our split, low-amp, SilentFlo 5000circulation pump. The Wave master jet pump is devoted to delivering the finest massages experience by producing a powerful flow through all the jets. And with an self-governing circulation hot tub pump you can enjoy the powerful jets and soothing water features, and still be assured of clean, heated water, 24 hours a day. While all Hot Spring spas are influential, our High Performance models have even higher horsepower pumps to power additional jets and water features.

Conclusion

Hot Tub Heaters take a lot of mistreatment. From the moment a spa is turned on, hot water and sanitizing chemicals are constantly rocketing through the heater. Industry surveys show that heaters are generally the first part of a spa to fail. It s no surprise, since most heaters are made of stainless steel, which makes them exposed to the pitting and corrosion fatigues that lead to problems ranging from heat loss to complete system failure. That s why Thermo-Spa builds spa heaters stronger, with one of the most excellent and strongest metals known to man – Titanium. A few spa manufacturers use Titanium in their heaters, but they cut costs by making only the heating coil out of this nearly indestructible metal. Thermo-Spas heater, coil and surrounding jacket are all made of Titanium, so the entire heater is resistant to chlorine pitting and practically impervious to corrosion and cracking, which is why Thermo-Spas heaters not only last years longer, they are also backed up with a much superior warranty.

Categories
Maths Tutor Ireland

How_Are_Schools_Ranking_For_Gen_Interest_Deterimined

Title:
How Are Schools Ranking For Gen In
terest Deterimined

Word Count:
518

Summary:
Imagine you are about to make a move. Your employer has decided that your skills are needed in another part of the country. What neighborhoods are best? What kinds of schools serve the communities you are considering? For the best Maths Tutor In Ireland company, call Ace Solution Books. How do you find out? One option is to research school rankings for gen interest; this way, you’ll be armed with valuable, consistent information for the schools you are considering.

So what goes into school rankings for gen interest? How do the “experts” dete…

Keywords:
School Rankungs, Patricia Hawke

Article Body:
Imagine you are about to make a move. Your employer has decided that your skills are needed in another part of the country. What neighborhoods are best? What kinds of schools serve the communities you are considering? How do you find out? One option is to research school rankings for gen interest; this way, you’ll be armed with valuable, consistent information for the schools you are considering.

So what goes into school rankings for gen interest? How do the “experts” determine which schools are the best, and which schools are improving? There are numerous government agencies and private companies that examine, assess, and analyze a school’s progress. The School Rankings for general interest findings are published for public use, with the hope that parents will use them for school selection and support of their child’s current school. The reports are also intended for educators, administrators, and schools boards to see what they are doing right, and what needs to change.

Most would assume that the best way to compare school rankings for gen interest at the national level would be to look at test scores. This is difficult, however, if not downright impossible; each state has different curriculum, testing, and performance standards. Of course, looking at the school rankings for gen interest within one state would use the data from test scores; there are other factors that determine school rankings for gen interest.

For example, one might look at what states are doing in regards to college prep when looking at school rankings for gen interest. Not only is it important to examine how much each state engages students in college prep classes, it’s also necessary to look at how well students are doing, in general terms, in these classes. Information on how many graduates go onto 4-year or 2-year colleges is one type of data to analyze. This is one factor that goes into school rankings for gen interest.

Another factor that influences a state’s school rankings for gen interest is state-level demographic information. It is a fact, albeit one that most folks are unhappy with, that minority students often do not achieve to their top abilities. Parents who want to know how well their minority group performs in the state of their choice can look at school rankings for gen interest. States where minorities are excelling and/or improving their achievement are more desirable than those who are not.

Spending data is another area that can be considered when looking at school rankings for gen interest. Knowing how much a state spends per student in general, as well as operating and instructional expenditures per students is incredibly important. Some proponents say that all the money in the world cannot help a failing school; whether that’ true or not is impossible to say. However, an adequate if not generous budget surely helps!

In conclusion, there are many factors that go into determining school rankings for gen interest. Government agencies as well as private companies consider spending data, demographic information, and college prepatory programs. Within individual states, test scores are also looked considered.

Categories
Roofers Kildare

ARK Countertops 101 – Deciding on Your Kitchen Countertop Materials

Word Count:
1425

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For many, their kitchen is the most important room in their house. And most real estate experts agree that the best way to improve or raise the property value of a house is to remodel the kitchen. The first major hurdle will be to choose your kitchen countertop material – and there are more choices out there than just granite!


countertops, kitchen counters, granite countertops, remodeling kitchen, kitchen counter tops, home improvement, general contractor, remodeling, kitchen remodel, countertop replacement, slate counters

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For many, their kitchen is the most important room in their house. And most real estate experts agree that the best way to improve or raise the property value of a house is to remodel the kitchen. The four major components of a kitchen remodel usually involve replacing the major appliances, installing new floors, replacing or re-facing the kitchen cabinets, and installing a new countertop. Let s focus on that final component replacing your current kitchen countertop material with a new one.

Naturally, it involves more than just running off to the store to pick out a new countertop for your kitchen. You will first need to consider how much you want to spend. You also need to think about how much time and effort you ll need to spend to maintain your new countertop. Finally, you ll want to seriously consider the style and look you want in your kitchen. Whatever type of countertop you install, it will be the focal point of the entire room.

The very first type of countertop that pops into the mind of every anxious kitchen renovator is granite. However, there are many countertop materials to choose from and granite is only one of them. These days, a kitchen remodeling hopeful can select tile, stone, acrylic, concrete, stainless steel, and laminate, even wood!

GRANITE
Let s start with the most popular: granite. Granite countertops are the most popular but also the most expensive. Why? Besides the beautiful surface, granite is extremely heat and scratch resistant. A granite countertop is very durable and will last a long time. A granite countertop will never go out of style and granite slab installation will greatly increase the value of the house. The drawbacks? Other than the expense, granite is a natural stone and it is porous. A sealer will be required to prevent staining. One alternative is to use granite tiles in place of a massive slab. The cost savings on the tiles is high. It is important to not use the granite surface as a cutting board as it will dull the finish (and ruin a knife or two.)

OTHER NATURAL STONES
Besides granite, there are other various stone surfaces that can be used on kitchen counters. Quartz, marble, limestone, soapstone, and slate surfaces are very popular today. Marble is smooth and cool, perfect for food preparations directly on the surface. It s not as durable as granite and requires more sealing maintenance to protect from staining. Slate is very durable and has such a unique surface that it can really stand out in a kitchen. As slate has been used as a roofing material, it doesn t require as much sealing protection, but some upkeep is still needed. Limestone is very porous and spills must be treated quickly to prevent staining. It has a natural, weathered look that can deepen and darken over time. Natural quartz has a look similar to slate but does not stain or scratch as easily. Engineered quartz has been gaining popularity as well, but the costs are considerably more (engineered materials are a quartz composite product mixed with epoxy, polymers, and small stones or pebbles for a unique look and feel.)

TILE
Glazed ceramic and porcelain tile has been popular in kitchens for decades. It comes in a huge variety of colors, shapes, and designs. The tiles can be a small as a square inch and as large as six square inches. The tiles are durable and also have some of the same heat and scratch resistance qualities as granite. The porcelain tiles are usually more expensive than the ceramic tiles, but the porcelain tiles are more durable and the hardest fired type of tiles. Drawbacks of tile? It can chip easily, more expensive than laminate alternatives, and the grout can be an issue. When putting the tiles together, there are grout lines between each of them and grout can stain very easily. It will require a lot more maintenance to keep it looking good. Because of the grout issues, the ability for the tiles to break and chip easily, and the overall cost, it is best to leave the installation work to a professional.

CONCRETE
Concrete is not only for sidewalks or driveways. A concrete countertop is pigmented and can be polished into a smooth and shiny surface that can resemble any natural stone. The counters can be molded in a factory or cast on site. Concrete is rather porous and needs to be regularly sealed, similar to granite, to resist stains. It can be made into any shape and have any thickness. Concrete is also heat and scratch resistant. The counters can be made in a variety of colors and textures. Drawbacks on concrete? The sealer that is required is not the only protection needed. The sealer needs to be waxed every one to three months to prevent stain and water damage, so maintenance can be extensive. You cannot cut on the concrete surface without leaving marks. Concrete is also very expensive.

STAINLESS STEEL
A restaurant would probably be the first thing one would think of when it comes to a stainless steel kitchen counter. But there is a reason most restaurants use this material. Durability, stain and water resistance, low maintenance, a myriad of size and shape choices are just a few of those reasons. It s also very easy to clean and you can put a hot plate or pan on the surface without worry of damaging it. Drawback many don t like the industrial look of it. It can be rather expensive to have made. Cutting on it can leave marks and it can be easy to dent. It s important to make sure the surface is at least 18 gauge and has eight to ten percent nickel in it.

WOOD
Sometimes called Butcher Block Countertops, a wood counter is usually made from strips of maple or oak that has been glued together. But just about any hardwood can be made into countertops. Bamboo countertops are the latest trend! Wood counter material has a warm, beautiful look that can come in a variety of shades and textures. It s perfect for people who want to cut directly on the surface of their counter. It can be sanded and resealed in the event of any deep cuts, scratches or stains. It can be easy to install and the prices are reasonable. Drawbacks? Wood is not very hard and can easily burn, scratch, or dent. The wood can warp or turn black near sinks from regular water contact. And it requires regular sealing.

LAMINATE
Formica is the most common name for laminate counters. It s made of a thin layer of plastic glued to particleboard or wood. Plastic laminate counters are very inexpensive, lightweight, and available in an endless supply of colors and patterns. It is very stain-resistant and, as a plastic material, it is easy to clean. Because it comes pre-formed, it can be easy for a do-it-yourselfer to install. Drawbacks to Formica? While these counters are somewhat durable, they do not last forever. Laminates are not heat or scratch resistant but they are stain resistant. Abrasive cleaners can dull and scratch the surface. Warping or water spots occur with excessive exposure to moisture. The color or pattern can fade with time.

ACRYLLIC/SOLID SURFACE
Solid surface counters are manufactured tops that are custom-made for any application. Popular companies include Corian, Avonite, and Swanstone. These surfaces are durable, water resistant, easy to clean, non-porous, and are even resistant to mold and bacteria. And nicks or scratches can be sanded away. Drawbacks include problems handling hot pans on the surface, high expense, and the excessive weight requires a good strong cabinet base (similar to natural stone.) Some do not like the plastic or fake look of the material, but the material does have a wide range of colors to choose from.

Replacing the kitchen countertops is only one step in your goal to renovate the kitchen, but it is considered the biggest step by many. You can really make a statement about your kitchen and your home with the right selection of countertop material. Of course, once you take care of those worn out counters that came with the home, it will really make those old cabinets, flooring, and appliances stand out! It s all just part of the process of increasing the value of your property. When you re ready to take the plunge and install those granite countertops, contact ConstructionDeal.com to find a local countertop professional to handle the work.