Ask people who have completed do-it-yourself projects and they'll tell you that the projects took at least twice and much time and three times the money they thought they would. The basic reason is that DIYers usually make a lot of mistakes that end up making home improvement projects more expensive and time-consuming.
Here are 10 surefire ways to avoid the top DIY home improvement mistakes in the future and ensure success.
1. Take out the required permits - it's amazing how many DIYers skip this step. Sure, it takes time, and it means you have to deal with the government, but it's actually in your best interest to make sure get the required home improvement permits. The folks in the permitting office will make sure the project is done correctly and that you stay safe in the process. Also, for some projects, you'll need proof that you have a permit or your insurance company won't cover the improvement. You'll probably need a permit for any project larger than wallpapering and painting. If you're unsure, call your local building department and ask.
2. Have all the tools and materials you need available before you start your project - starting a job without the necessary tools and supplies will slow down the job and delay your progress. And make sure you buy quality tools. They're a wise investment.
3. Prepare the job site for material deliveries - when your suppliers deliver materials, you'll want to make sure the job site is ready to accept them. You don't want your materials exposed to the weather while you are working and you want to have a storage area to prevent theft.
4. Don't skimp on materials - for example, don't use 1/4-inch drywall for building walls. Use at at least 5/8-inch; and 3/4-inch works well for a good sound barrier. Use 3/4-inch plywood for sub-floors. It creates a much stronger floor.
5. Prepare the walls for painting - clean the walls, sand them and patch any holes before you paint. Use a coat of primer or stain blocker if you're trying to cover over oil-based paint, stains or peeling paint, or if you're painting a lighter color over a darker color.
6. Use the correct paint - use flat paint ceilings. Interior paints should have at least an eggshell or satin finish so you can scrub it. For outdoor decks, use a linseed-oil-based stain to drive the pigment into the wood and preserve it.
7. Keep safe while working - you don't want to end up in the emergency room. Wear safety goggles when using power tools or working with drywall or wood. Wear a hard hat when you're working under other people on scaffolding, and open some windows when you're painting or staining, or stripping old finishes off of floors or walls. Don't wear loose, hanging clothing, especially when using power tools. Wear gloves when carrying wood, metal and rock, or when hammering, and wear a nail or tool pouch to prevent damage to your floors, feet, and pets.
8. Measure twice and cut once - probably the most important rule of any project. If you're going to make a mistake, make it too long. You can always make something shorter. You can't make it longer.
9. Know the limits of your abilities - you're not going to be good at everything. If you don't have a lot of experience at plumbing or electrical work, for instance, don't attempt those projects.
10. Don't start to learn how to do a project on your own house - If you want to learn how to do a project, offer your assistance to a friend who is an experienced DIYer or a contractor. And if you have any question about what you're doing, make sure you stop and ask.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
zondag 24 januari 2010
The benefits of a swamp cooler
A swamp evaporative cooler can give you the best of cooling technologies without the disadvantages of air conditioning. Unlike air conditioners, swamp evaporative coolers require very little energy in order to work well, as long as the appropriate environmental conditions are met. Speaking of the environment, evaporative coolers are pollutant free because they work using nature's own cooling mechanism.
The term swamp evaporative cooler is a bit misleading because an evaporative cooler actually has nothing to do with a swamp and in fact, wouldn't work in swamp-like conditions. An evaporative cooler works the same way that cooling happens in nature, and the same way that our bodies cool themselves; by evaporation. If you've ever lived in a coastal climate or near a large body of water, you're already familiar with evaporative cooling. You'll have noticed that breezes coming off of the water are cooler than those coming from an inland direction. The reason for this is simple.
Nature always moves towards a state of equilibrium. So when a cooler area and a warmer area come into contact, the two temperatures will move towards each other and try to equal out. As warm, dry air passes over a body of water, it evaporates some of the water and is cooled by it. This same idea is reproduced in a swamp evaporative cooler. Hot, dry air from outside is pulled into the cooler by a fan. That air is pulled through a series of damp pads, where it absorbs water that has the effect of reducing the air's temperature. As an added benefit, the pads also filter or clean the air as it passes through. Then the cooler, cleaner air is blown through into the room or office that you are cooling. In fact, the cooler keeps the air circulating in a room, meaning that you feel even cooler due to the slight breeze that the swamp evaporative cooler creates.
So in order for a swamp evaporative cooler to work efficiently, it needs to be used in a hot, dry climate. If your climate is more humid, an evaporative cooler is probably not the best choice for you. But where these coolers do work well, they work very well. They also save users money and energy. Some users have even had evaporative coolers converted so that they will work on solar power. Energy savings can be so significant that energy companies in states like California will offer rebates to clients who choose to install a whole-house swamp evaporative cooler.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
The term swamp evaporative cooler is a bit misleading because an evaporative cooler actually has nothing to do with a swamp and in fact, wouldn't work in swamp-like conditions. An evaporative cooler works the same way that cooling happens in nature, and the same way that our bodies cool themselves; by evaporation. If you've ever lived in a coastal climate or near a large body of water, you're already familiar with evaporative cooling. You'll have noticed that breezes coming off of the water are cooler than those coming from an inland direction. The reason for this is simple.
Nature always moves towards a state of equilibrium. So when a cooler area and a warmer area come into contact, the two temperatures will move towards each other and try to equal out. As warm, dry air passes over a body of water, it evaporates some of the water and is cooled by it. This same idea is reproduced in a swamp evaporative cooler. Hot, dry air from outside is pulled into the cooler by a fan. That air is pulled through a series of damp pads, where it absorbs water that has the effect of reducing the air's temperature. As an added benefit, the pads also filter or clean the air as it passes through. Then the cooler, cleaner air is blown through into the room or office that you are cooling. In fact, the cooler keeps the air circulating in a room, meaning that you feel even cooler due to the slight breeze that the swamp evaporative cooler creates.
So in order for a swamp evaporative cooler to work efficiently, it needs to be used in a hot, dry climate. If your climate is more humid, an evaporative cooler is probably not the best choice for you. But where these coolers do work well, they work very well. They also save users money and energy. Some users have even had evaporative coolers converted so that they will work on solar power. Energy savings can be so significant that energy companies in states like California will offer rebates to clients who choose to install a whole-house swamp evaporative cooler.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Air purifier for better health
While it's a popular misconception that an air purifier is a luxury product, few people realize the immense benefit this technological marvel can bring about in their lives. Be it a large home air purifier or a high-end HEPA purifier for your posh office. In a world increasingly punctuated by rising pollution and airborne discomfiting elements, the place for an air purifier in your life has changed from being a desire to being a need. Electrostatic air purifiers, ionic air purifiers, filterless air purifiers and a whole army of more such soldiers perform the brave task of keeping you healthy and safe. So what do these air purifiers protect you from? Lets find out ...
Airborne allergies are easily one of the most common types of allergies afflicting a wide spread of the population. This rise in allergies necessitated a lot of research from several companies on making a device that would clean the air. Thus, Air purifiers and air cleaners today have become one of the biggest answers to the various airborne allergies. The air you breathe is rife with so many pollutants that there is almost no single system that can make the air 100% pure but you can get pretty close.
Air purifiers get rid of particulate matters in the air silently and effectively. This particulate matter frequent have pollutants which cause common airborne allergies such as pollen allergies, tree and plant allergies, weed allergies, hay fever allergies and mold allergies. How do you know if you have caught on to these allergies? If you have been sneezing often, having breathing problems, a nose that's running, skin rashes or watery eyes, it's possible that you are suffering from some airborne allergy. But how do you fight an enemy you can't see? That's where the air purifier steps up to the challenge, getting rid of these pollutants so that the air that you breathe is safe for you and healthy as well.
Like any other product, air purifiers are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, prices and features. Depending on where you live, quality of ambient air, size of the room or apartment and specific allergies you suffer from, you will be able to find the best air purifier that will satisfy most of your requirements if not all. Remember, when it comes to your health, spare no efforts in ensuring that you can secure it to your best possible extent.
Breathe clean healthy air and enjoy a long life! All the best!
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Airborne allergies are easily one of the most common types of allergies afflicting a wide spread of the population. This rise in allergies necessitated a lot of research from several companies on making a device that would clean the air. Thus, Air purifiers and air cleaners today have become one of the biggest answers to the various airborne allergies. The air you breathe is rife with so many pollutants that there is almost no single system that can make the air 100% pure but you can get pretty close.
Air purifiers get rid of particulate matters in the air silently and effectively. This particulate matter frequent have pollutants which cause common airborne allergies such as pollen allergies, tree and plant allergies, weed allergies, hay fever allergies and mold allergies. How do you know if you have caught on to these allergies? If you have been sneezing often, having breathing problems, a nose that's running, skin rashes or watery eyes, it's possible that you are suffering from some airborne allergy. But how do you fight an enemy you can't see? That's where the air purifier steps up to the challenge, getting rid of these pollutants so that the air that you breathe is safe for you and healthy as well.
Like any other product, air purifiers are available in a variety of sizes, shapes, prices and features. Depending on where you live, quality of ambient air, size of the room or apartment and specific allergies you suffer from, you will be able to find the best air purifier that will satisfy most of your requirements if not all. Remember, when it comes to your health, spare no efforts in ensuring that you can secure it to your best possible extent.
Breathe clean healthy air and enjoy a long life! All the best!
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Great comfort with a central airconditioner
Almost eighty percent of the new U.S. houses are installing central air conditioning units while construction. The reason why most people are opting for this is that the central unit keeps the room temperature in a comfortable level as it filters and dehumidifies the air. This system is all the more beneficial for those who have allergies or asthma. But those having existing homes do not need to worry, as the central air conditioning units can even be set up in houses that have already been constructed!
If you are looking for the best central air conditioning unit, you need to keep certain points in mind. The first thing to consider is the size of your home. The air conditioning units are available in various sizes, so carefully pick the size that you think would be the best for your home. Remember, that the machine would not be able to properly dehumidify air if it's too large for its purpose. You should rather get a contractor to help you choose, as they calculate the required size with a method named "Manual J".
The next important thing to look into is the SEER rating, i.e., the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The technology has changed today, and the energy efficiency has also improved as a result. So the new air conditioners are supposed to have a SEER rating of 13, whereas, a rating of only 7 or 8 was enough for the machines installed a couple of decades ago.
You can actually save quite a lot in your electricity bills if you substitute your old and ineffective air conditioner with a new central air conditioning set up. In fact, you can expect to save more than $500 a year with the new SEER rating, which has gone up to 13 from 11.5. To get the latest in energy efficiency, choose a compressor having the "Scroll(tm) technology".
The "Energy Star" is one more criterion which your central air conditioner should have. This is basically a certificate to denote that the equipment consumes less energy than the other new models. The new models obviously consume a lot less than the machines dating back a couple of years.
Be careful while choosing the location for putting up the outdoor unit of your machine. This is important because it would not be able to ventilate air properly if it is put under a deck, or is covered up by plants. These units are often noisy. So keep them far from your deck or your patio, or any place where you want to enjoy some quietude.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
If you are looking for the best central air conditioning unit, you need to keep certain points in mind. The first thing to consider is the size of your home. The air conditioning units are available in various sizes, so carefully pick the size that you think would be the best for your home. Remember, that the machine would not be able to properly dehumidify air if it's too large for its purpose. You should rather get a contractor to help you choose, as they calculate the required size with a method named "Manual J".
The next important thing to look into is the SEER rating, i.e., the Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio. The technology has changed today, and the energy efficiency has also improved as a result. So the new air conditioners are supposed to have a SEER rating of 13, whereas, a rating of only 7 or 8 was enough for the machines installed a couple of decades ago.
You can actually save quite a lot in your electricity bills if you substitute your old and ineffective air conditioner with a new central air conditioning set up. In fact, you can expect to save more than $500 a year with the new SEER rating, which has gone up to 13 from 11.5. To get the latest in energy efficiency, choose a compressor having the "Scroll(tm) technology".
The "Energy Star" is one more criterion which your central air conditioner should have. This is basically a certificate to denote that the equipment consumes less energy than the other new models. The new models obviously consume a lot less than the machines dating back a couple of years.
Be careful while choosing the location for putting up the outdoor unit of your machine. This is important because it would not be able to ventilate air properly if it is put under a deck, or is covered up by plants. These units are often noisy. So keep them far from your deck or your patio, or any place where you want to enjoy some quietude.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Are bunk beds safe
If you are trying to maximize the space in your room, consider purchasing a loft bed or bunk bed to elevate your sleeping area. With loft beds, the bed is elevated on a platform with space left underneath for living, working, or playing. Bunk beds work on the same principal, but with another bed underneath the top bunk. Both are popular with children and teens, who often have limited space in their rooms; however, many parents worry about their safety.
Each year, thousands of children are rushed to emergency rooms after falling from the top bunk of their bunk beds or loft beds, while many more receive less serious injuries that are not seen by a medical professional. Typically, the main reason of injury involving bunk beds or lofts beds is horseplay and not from improperly installed beds. Before you purchase bunk beds or loft beds for your child, consider the age of the child and plan to make rules regarding the use of the bed. Although younger children are thought to experience more injuries, the most problems occur with older children who are more apt to disregard rules and exhibit unsafe or risky behavior.
For the most part, bunk beds and loft beds are just as safe as conventional beds. For smaller children, consider designating the lower bunk as their bed instead of allowing them to regularly climb to the top bunk. Also, ensure the bed is properly maintained and meets all current safety regulations and standards. Additionally, approximately eight percent of bunk bed related falls and injuries that must seek medical attention are related directly to the ladder. In addition to ensuring the ladder is properly installed, instruct your child on the correct method of ascending and descending the ladder.
When you begin searching for an appropriate bunk bed or loft bed for your child, choose a bed that appeals to all the safety standards. A bunk bed should have guard rails that have no more than three and one-half inches of space between the rail and the mattress. This will prevent children from falling through the space and potentially injuring themselves. If necessary, you may need to install extra boards if the space between the guard rail and the mattress. Furthermore, the guard rail needs to extend no less than five inches above mattress so that your child will be unable to roll off the top bunk.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the bunk bed or loft bed your purchase has guard rails on both sides. Even though one side of the bed will be placed next to a wall, a guard rail is essential due to a child potentially falling next to the wall and becoming trapped between the wall and the bed frame. Again, the guard rail should be no greater than three and one-half inches above the bed frame. Also, you should ensure that the mattress purchased to fit the bunk bed or loft bed properly fits the frame. Many parents choose to use a preexisting mattress used on a child-sized bed that is smaller than a traditional twin bed frame. Children can potentially fall between the mattress and the frame in this situation, so you should ensure the mattress is of the proper size.
In addition to ensuring the mattress is of proper size, you should also check that the mattress foundation is properly suspended above the bottom bunk or the space below. If the bed sits on a wooden platform, consider reinforcing the mattress with wooden slats or metal straps. This will prevent the top bunk from collapsing, especially if the lower occupant is kicking or pushing the above mattress.
By purchasing a quality, well constructed bunk bed or loft bed that meets all safety guidelines, you can make certain that your child will be safe and free from injury from the bed.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Each year, thousands of children are rushed to emergency rooms after falling from the top bunk of their bunk beds or loft beds, while many more receive less serious injuries that are not seen by a medical professional. Typically, the main reason of injury involving bunk beds or lofts beds is horseplay and not from improperly installed beds. Before you purchase bunk beds or loft beds for your child, consider the age of the child and plan to make rules regarding the use of the bed. Although younger children are thought to experience more injuries, the most problems occur with older children who are more apt to disregard rules and exhibit unsafe or risky behavior.
For the most part, bunk beds and loft beds are just as safe as conventional beds. For smaller children, consider designating the lower bunk as their bed instead of allowing them to regularly climb to the top bunk. Also, ensure the bed is properly maintained and meets all current safety regulations and standards. Additionally, approximately eight percent of bunk bed related falls and injuries that must seek medical attention are related directly to the ladder. In addition to ensuring the ladder is properly installed, instruct your child on the correct method of ascending and descending the ladder.
When you begin searching for an appropriate bunk bed or loft bed for your child, choose a bed that appeals to all the safety standards. A bunk bed should have guard rails that have no more than three and one-half inches of space between the rail and the mattress. This will prevent children from falling through the space and potentially injuring themselves. If necessary, you may need to install extra boards if the space between the guard rail and the mattress. Furthermore, the guard rail needs to extend no less than five inches above mattress so that your child will be unable to roll off the top bunk.
Another thing to keep in mind is that the bunk bed or loft bed your purchase has guard rails on both sides. Even though one side of the bed will be placed next to a wall, a guard rail is essential due to a child potentially falling next to the wall and becoming trapped between the wall and the bed frame. Again, the guard rail should be no greater than three and one-half inches above the bed frame. Also, you should ensure that the mattress purchased to fit the bunk bed or loft bed properly fits the frame. Many parents choose to use a preexisting mattress used on a child-sized bed that is smaller than a traditional twin bed frame. Children can potentially fall between the mattress and the frame in this situation, so you should ensure the mattress is of the proper size.
In addition to ensuring the mattress is of proper size, you should also check that the mattress foundation is properly suspended above the bottom bunk or the space below. If the bed sits on a wooden platform, consider reinforcing the mattress with wooden slats or metal straps. This will prevent the top bunk from collapsing, especially if the lower occupant is kicking or pushing the above mattress.
By purchasing a quality, well constructed bunk bed or loft bed that meets all safety guidelines, you can make certain that your child will be safe and free from injury from the bed.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Ceiling decoration
I want to draw attention to your ceiling. Take a look at it. Ceilings are an often neglected area of the room when it comes time to redecorate (or repair). There are so many things that you can do too, that are inexpensive, yet provide the simple elegance that speaks to your style. Choose decorative ceiling medallions, crown molding, ceiling domes, rosettes, or panel molding, just to name a few. Three of my favorite ways to accent a ceiling: ceiling medallions, ceiling domes, and crown molding.
One of the easiest and least time-consuming projects is the installation of a ceiling medallion. Although in the past they were made from plaster, today these decorative ornaments are made of lightweight polyurethane foam. This makes them much easier to handle. Ceiling medallions are used to draw attention to chandeliers and light fixtures, or to enhance crown molding. They can also be combined with a rosette and used to decorate an otherwise plain ceiling. You can use these architectural ornaments as wall decorations. Use several small ones in the hallway. Ceiling medallions are versatile and come in many styles and sizes. They can be painted to match any room. Ceiling medallions are one of the most popular architectural details.
Ceiling domes are similar to ceiling medallions in that they can transform any room into a work of art. However, they are larger and actually recessed into the ceiling, necessitating that they be planned for at the time of construction. Ceiling domes effectively enhance a foyer, dining room, living room, or even the bathroom.
Crown molding, also referred to as crown moulding, or cornice, is probably THE most important architectural element used to define any interior space. Most of today's interior designers agree that every room benefits from the use of crown molding treatment. Crown molding smoothes the transition from wall to ceiling and does much to define the architectural style of a room. The size and style of crown molding used may vary widely, from a simple cove in a farmhouse kitchen to a large built-up cornice in a grand entry.
These are just a few of the architectural designs and accents you can use to enhance the overall experience of all who enter into your home. Just don't forget the ceiling!
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
One of the easiest and least time-consuming projects is the installation of a ceiling medallion. Although in the past they were made from plaster, today these decorative ornaments are made of lightweight polyurethane foam. This makes them much easier to handle. Ceiling medallions are used to draw attention to chandeliers and light fixtures, or to enhance crown molding. They can also be combined with a rosette and used to decorate an otherwise plain ceiling. You can use these architectural ornaments as wall decorations. Use several small ones in the hallway. Ceiling medallions are versatile and come in many styles and sizes. They can be painted to match any room. Ceiling medallions are one of the most popular architectural details.
Ceiling domes are similar to ceiling medallions in that they can transform any room into a work of art. However, they are larger and actually recessed into the ceiling, necessitating that they be planned for at the time of construction. Ceiling domes effectively enhance a foyer, dining room, living room, or even the bathroom.
Crown molding, also referred to as crown moulding, or cornice, is probably THE most important architectural element used to define any interior space. Most of today's interior designers agree that every room benefits from the use of crown molding treatment. Crown molding smoothes the transition from wall to ceiling and does much to define the architectural style of a room. The size and style of crown molding used may vary widely, from a simple cove in a farmhouse kitchen to a large built-up cornice in a grand entry.
These are just a few of the architectural designs and accents you can use to enhance the overall experience of all who enter into your home. Just don't forget the ceiling!
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Great tips when buying a kitchen counter top
There are many types of kitchen countertop materials available on the market today. Some are of the do it yourself variety while others take special skill and tools to have installed. All kitchen countertop material however have one thing in common. None are the perfect product for everyone.
Take the most inexpensive kitchen countertop material, plastic laminate like the Formica (c) brand. This material is strong relatively stain resistant, comes in a wide assortment of colors, textures and designs and is rather easy to install. The negatives however include it can be cut easily when preparing food and it burns. Accidentally place a hot pan on your new plastic laminate kitchen countertop and you end up with a nice round burn mark. This is permanent and cannot be cleaned away. Knife marks or cuts in this material also tend to fill up with dirt and tend to make the countertop look ugly no matter what it's age. This is actually one of my favorite kitchen countertop materials however because it's a great surface to prepare baking goods and food. To get around the problems with this material, I've simply purchased special plastic cutting boards that resist heat, have them cut into the laminate counter where I usually put hot pans and do my cutting. I get all the benefits of laminate kitchen countertops without the usual problems
Next up, is ceramic tile. Nothing can beat ceramic tile for that "Old World" hand crafted look. The tile itself doesn't burn, scorch, or cut with normal wear. There's a wide array of colors, textures and because it's a hand installed product, you can get as fancy or as plain as you prefer. Beautiful stuff Really. There's two big problems with ceramic tile however. First, because it's tile, there's also grout lines. Although the tile doesn't stain, the grout lines do however. This means that white stuff shows if you have darker grout and darker stuff will show if you have lighter or white tile. Grout maintenance, although not difficult still should be a consideration. The other issue is only a problem if you bake. Rolling out dough on a tile surface is difficult because of the grout lines and tile imperfections. A ceramic tile kitchen countertop is not smooth or perfectly flat.
One type of kitchen countertop growing rapidly in popularity is the solid surface and granite type counters. Solid surface materials are man made while the granite is natural. Each however offer a beautiful blend of natural blend of color that can give your kitchen a clean, upscale look. These materials come in a variety of colors with the solid surface being available in solid and multi colors. Granite typically looks like a multi colored aggregate with a deep glowing tone. The two biggest issues with these products however are the same. The first is price. Both solid surface and granite kitchen countertops can be considered some of the high end, most expensive options available. 100-150 dollars per running foot of countertop is typical. This also may or may NOT include any back splash on the counter. The other issue with both the solid surface and granite countertop materials is the rather limited selection. You will need to be very satisfied with your selection as unlike the cheaper plastic laminate kitchen counter, replacing this material is expensive.
We have a wide range of kitchen countertop selections that continue to grow in both type of material and product selection. When choosing what is right for you, be aware of the possible issues so in the end you can be happy and satisfied with your investment no matter what the selection.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Take the most inexpensive kitchen countertop material, plastic laminate like the Formica (c) brand. This material is strong relatively stain resistant, comes in a wide assortment of colors, textures and designs and is rather easy to install. The negatives however include it can be cut easily when preparing food and it burns. Accidentally place a hot pan on your new plastic laminate kitchen countertop and you end up with a nice round burn mark. This is permanent and cannot be cleaned away. Knife marks or cuts in this material also tend to fill up with dirt and tend to make the countertop look ugly no matter what it's age. This is actually one of my favorite kitchen countertop materials however because it's a great surface to prepare baking goods and food. To get around the problems with this material, I've simply purchased special plastic cutting boards that resist heat, have them cut into the laminate counter where I usually put hot pans and do my cutting. I get all the benefits of laminate kitchen countertops without the usual problems
Next up, is ceramic tile. Nothing can beat ceramic tile for that "Old World" hand crafted look. The tile itself doesn't burn, scorch, or cut with normal wear. There's a wide array of colors, textures and because it's a hand installed product, you can get as fancy or as plain as you prefer. Beautiful stuff Really. There's two big problems with ceramic tile however. First, because it's tile, there's also grout lines. Although the tile doesn't stain, the grout lines do however. This means that white stuff shows if you have darker grout and darker stuff will show if you have lighter or white tile. Grout maintenance, although not difficult still should be a consideration. The other issue is only a problem if you bake. Rolling out dough on a tile surface is difficult because of the grout lines and tile imperfections. A ceramic tile kitchen countertop is not smooth or perfectly flat.
One type of kitchen countertop growing rapidly in popularity is the solid surface and granite type counters. Solid surface materials are man made while the granite is natural. Each however offer a beautiful blend of natural blend of color that can give your kitchen a clean, upscale look. These materials come in a variety of colors with the solid surface being available in solid and multi colors. Granite typically looks like a multi colored aggregate with a deep glowing tone. The two biggest issues with these products however are the same. The first is price. Both solid surface and granite kitchen countertops can be considered some of the high end, most expensive options available. 100-150 dollars per running foot of countertop is typical. This also may or may NOT include any back splash on the counter. The other issue with both the solid surface and granite countertop materials is the rather limited selection. You will need to be very satisfied with your selection as unlike the cheaper plastic laminate kitchen counter, replacing this material is expensive.
We have a wide range of kitchen countertop selections that continue to grow in both type of material and product selection. When choosing what is right for you, be aware of the possible issues so in the end you can be happy and satisfied with your investment no matter what the selection.
article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link - article link
Abonneren op:
Posts (Atom)