<h2 style="margin: 10pt 0in 0pt"><font size="3" color="#990000">Kitchen Remodel Complete With Contemporary Countertops</font></h2><p><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt">Your countertops are the first thing many people will notice when they enter your kitchen. But with the many options to be had, it can be complex to find the choice that best suits your needs with a style you like. From laminate to stainless steel, there is an alternative out there for you. But before selecting, it’s best to think about a few things.</span></p><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt"><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">Possibly the most important factor to consider when picking a countertop is the price you wish to pay. Price varies dramatically, with laminate and ceramic tile at the low end of the scale, solid-surface countertops in the middle and specialty stone and stainless steel at the high end. Remember to factor the cost of installation into the price.</p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"> </p><div style="text-align: center"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,29,0" width="425" height="282"><param name="movie" value="../images/banners/2b.swf" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="menu" value="false" /><param name="wmode" value="" /><embed src="../images/banners/2b.swf" wmode="" quality="high" menu="false" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="282"></embed></object></div> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">Another factor to consider is sturdiness and maintenance. Think about how you use your kitchen countertops when making your decision. Some surfaces are heat and scratch resistant. The majority are simple to clean, but a few require regular upkeep.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">Make certain to factor your individual style into your choice. No matter if you are looking for something stylish or sedate, you are sure to locate a countertop you prefer among the thousands of available options.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">Here’s a look at some of the many kitchen countertop surfaces obtainable today and the pros and cons of each:</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>1. Laminate:</strong> This surface is affordable, easy to maintain and available in thousands of colors and patterns, but it can be difficult to repair if damaged.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>2. Solid surface:</strong> Solid surface counters are available in many colors, designs and are reasonably priced and scratches can be sanded out. On the flip side, it is not so easy to repair if discolored or damaged by a hot pot or pan.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>3. Ceramic tile:</strong> This surface presents an endless quantity of color and design option and is scratch-and heat-resistant. Nevertheless, the grout can become easily stained and the individual tiles can chip or crack.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>3. Stone:</strong> Stone countertops fall into two categories, granite and marble. Both are striking options that can add to your home’s value. Granite is sturdy and will typically last a long time, but it is costly and can stain if it isn’t sealed properly. Marble is more costly than granite and can be damaged by acidic foods because it is more porous than granite.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>4. Engineered stone:</strong> This option comes in a wide array of colors and is scratch-resistant and easy to maintain, but it can be as costly as granite.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>5. Stainless steel:</strong> This surface provides a up-to-date look and is often found in restaurant kitchens. It is durable and easy to clean and maintain, but it can be dented easily and is loud.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>6. Concrete:</strong> You can color and customize concrete counters to match nearly any look you envision. However, because it is a porous surface, it is easily discolored and has to be sealed regularly.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"><strong>7. Butcher block:</strong> This selection is easy to clean and can be sanded and resealed if stained or damaged. But it has to be maintained with mineral oil applications and is susceptible to extreme heat.</p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">You can find kitchen countertops in an assortment of colors, textures and materials. Before selecting a countertop, make sure to determine your kitchen needs and wants and consider your budget for a much easier shopping process.</p><p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal"> </p><div style="text-align: center"><object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,29,0" width="425" height="282"><param name="movie" value="../images/banners/2a.swf" /><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="menu" value="false" /><param name="wmode" value="" /><embed src="../images/banners/2a.swf" wmode="" quality="high" menu="false" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="282"></embed></object></div> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">Article Source: <a href="http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/kitchen-remodel-complete-with-contemporary-countertops-666462.html">http://www.articlesbase.com/kitchens-articles/kitchen-remodel-complete-with-contemporary-countertops-666462.html</a> </p> <p style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt" class="MsoNormal">About the Author</p> <p><span style="font-size: 10pt; line-height: 200%; font-family: ‘Verdana’,’sans-serif’; letter-spacing: 1pt">Find an excellent property in Southern California: <a href="http://www.searchbirdrockhomes.com/22646-La-Jolla-Bird-Rock-CA-Affordable-RESCmty.aspx" target="_blank">Affordable Bird Rock Properties</a> and <a href="http://www.searchbonitaproperties.com/23208-Bonita-CA-Affordable-RESCity.aspx" target="_blank">Affordable Bonita Real Estate</a> and <a href="http://www.searchbonsallhomes.com/23221-Bonsall-CA-Affordable-RESCity.aspx" target="_blank">Affordable Bonsall Homes for Sale</a&
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