Category Archives: Helpful Hints

Considerations That Come Before Plumbing Renovations

November 14, 2016Bathroom Remodeling, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Save Moneymatt

Many people would like to begin the process of remodeling their bathroom. Often, for quite some time long before the physical remodeling process begins, people have been imagining the finished product in their head. They have thought about what it would be like to have a brand new shower. This shower might have all the modern, luxury amenities that showers are able to be equipped with now. Before the first nail is struck with a hammer, many people in the early planning process of a bathroom remodeling job are already imagining how relaxing their new shower will be each morning and how effective it will be in preparing them for the day ahead. These bathroom remodeling fantasies might also include visions of brand new fixtures, or maybe even a new countertop surface. A lovely new soaking tub may be in the works for some, while others dream of dual sinks. For some, a brand new toilet might be high on the wish list. For the more environmentally-conscious, perhaps the toilet is a newer model equipped to deliver the water efficiency benefits that newer toilets can now provide.

Fantasy Must Turn Into Reality

At some point, however, the enjoyable planning phase must evolve into concrete action, and the remodeling job has to actually begin. And the work isn’t even the most unpleasant part of the bathroom remodeling process. Once the tools come out of the box, it’s all downhill from there. No, often the most difficult part of the bathroom remodeling process is the consideration of the plumbing aspects of the job. Many people do not initially factor this into their vision for the very simple reason that you can’t see a bathroom’s plumbing. But the most luxurious shower and most efficient toilet are nothing without a solid plumbing system to keep them functioning optimally.

Plumbing Systems Must Be Considered First

The first main plumbing consideration to be investigated and planned is the actual plumbing system, its location, and whether it needs updated and/or moved to accomplish the remodel. The best way to go about this is to draw up a plan showing how you would like your bathroom remodel to look. Then have your plumber look it over & tell you what all will be involved to reach your end result, and make sure the changes you propose are feasible.

Consulting A Plumber Saves Hassles

After you both agree on a doable plan, realistic not just physically and spatially, but also within your budget, then you are set to begin. Spending this time with a professional plumber before work commences will save you many headaches, time, and money in the long-run. Remodeling and upgrading your bathroom should leave you pleased and happy, not disappointed and broke.

For more information on the specific cost of the remodeling job you may be planning or for an assessment of what remodeling might be possible in a particular bathroom space, contact a DC plumbing renovations company and make an appointment to have a professional plumber come out and take a look at what you have along with your design plans.

Water Heater Options

November 13, 2016Energy Efficiency, Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advice, Water Heatersmatt

Most people individually consume far more than they produce. Despite this being true, most individuals do not consciously label themselves as “consumers.” Though the reasons for this lack of labeling may be many and varied, one reason people do not label themselves consumers may be rooted in the term’s perceived negative connotations. Of course, this doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, there is a movement towards becoming what is sometimes referred to as a “conscious consumer.” Not only does this movement exist today through publications like Consumer Reports, it has historically been able to gain traction among a much larger segment of the public.

Do A Little Research

The first step toward becoming a conscious consumer is understanding the options you have available before purchasing. Too often, people simply default to whatever option a salesperson presents or whatever option they observe or hear about from fellow consumers. A smarter consumer takes the time to understand their options and, most importantly, the difference between the options and which option might thus work best for their unique, individual situation. When it comes to purchasing things like cell phones, advertising and socio-cultural trends make the different options obvious to consumers. With less flashy items, people may not understand that there are different purchase options at all. Here is a look at one of those purchase items: the water heater. There are actually many water heater options available to consumers and each may be beneficial depending on an individual’s circumstances.

Conventional Storage

Conventional storage water heaters are the most popular option. They involve a storage container which offers a ready-supply of hot water. Conventional storage water heaters work by maintaining hot water at the top of the tank that is released when the hot water tap is turned on—cold water then comes in through the bottom of the tank to replace the lost hot water. They may be powered by a variety of fuel sources including natural gas, propane, fuel oil and electricity. One drawback to these systems is that because they maintain a constant supply of hot water, they use energy even when hot water is not being used.

Tankless

Tankless water heaters, otherwise referred to as demand-type water heaters, provide hot water only when needed. This solves the aforementioned problem of energy loss inherent in conventional storage water heaters. With tankless systems, when the hot water is turned on, cold water fills the unit which is then heated by either gas or electricity. Another benefit of these systems is that the supply of hot water they provide is constant, rather than limited to the certain stored amount in a conventional system. A drawback to a tankless system is its constant heating of a smaller water supply limits its flow rate.

Heat Pump

Heat pumps are usually used in a home’s HVAC system to heat and cool the home, but they may also be used to heat water. Sometimes they function as the sole source of hot water, other times they operate as a supplement in a multi-part system. Heat pumps work with the heat that already exists (has already been generated) within a home’s energy system. Heat pumps use electricity to move heat where it is needed, rather than heat the water directly. Heat pumps can be multiple times more energy efficient than conventional water heaters, which work against the electricity of the house rather than with it.

Other types of water heaters include solar powered water heaters, tankless coil, and indirect water heaters. Another aspect of being a conscious consumer, of course, is proper maintenance of your purchases. Contact a DC water heater repair company if you think you may be interested in installing, upgrading or maintaining your water heater.

Common Services Offered By Professional Plumbers

November 7, 2016Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

A professional plumber can provide a wide variety of plumbing services and repairs for your home or business. While doing plumbing repairs yourself may save you money, there are some plumbing tasks for which you should hire a professional plumber. Hiring a licensed certified plumbing professional ensures that the service or repair is done correctly. And it also eliminates the need for extra repairs if you make any mistakes doing the job yourself.

Correcting Code Violations

A professional plumber should be aware of all the plumbing codes in your area. And therefore your plumber can correct any plumbing code violations that may be present in your home or business.

Pressure Correction

If the water pressure in your home or business isn’t just right, it can cause serious problems. A professional plumber can correct any issues with water pressure that may arise.

Drain Cleaning

A professional plumber can also clean any clogged drains or pipes in your home or business. Many companies also offer pipe rodding and hydro jetting services.

Catch Basin Cleaning and Pumping

A catch basin (also commonly called a storm drain) collects rainwater and transports it to local waterways. These catch basins require cleaning and pumping. A plumbing professional can do this for you as well.

Water Heater Installation and Repair

Whether your water heater is a modern tank less version or a traditional one a professional plumber can provide routine maintenance and repairs to your water heater. Typically this needs to be done before cold weather strikes. A professional plumber can also install a brand new water heater in your home or business if necessary.

Water Filtration Installation and Repair

If your home or business has a water filtration system, an experienced plumber can repair it. Or if you want to install a water filtration system, a seasoned plumbing professional can do that too.

Faucet and Fixture Installation and Repair

Got a leaky faucet in your kitchen or bathroom? Or maybe you need brand new faucets or fixtures installed in your home? No problem? Call a professional plumber to do this task for you quickly and efficiently.

Gas Pipe Repair and Installation

A licensed professional plumber can also install or repair gas pipes in your home or business. Switching from electric to gas stoves is no problem for your plumber. They can run new lines in your kitchen, or even outside to a gas grill or fire pit.

Drain and Water Supply Leaks

If you have a leaky drain or water supply a plumber can replace or repair it for you with ease. Sometimes leaks are harder to fix then they first appear. A professional plumber can get the repair done quickly and correctly the first time around.

Other Plumbing Services

A professional plumber can also help you with flood control, pump installation, problems with overhead sewer systems as well as complete any full or partial plumbing system upgrades in your home or business.

Looking For a Plumbing Company in DC

It’s easy to find a reputable plumber in your area. To find the right plumber to make repairs or perform plumbing services for your home or business, do a quick online search. If this doesn’t give you the information you’re looking for, you can always ask a friend, family member, or a co-worker for a recommendation.

Fun Facts about Plumbing

November 2, 2016Helpful Hints, Plumbing Advicematt

You might not give much thought to the plumbing system in your home or business. But you shouldn’t take it for granted because it’s essential to the health and safety of you and your family. So here are some fun facts about plumbing to keep in mind. These bits of tips and trivia just might make you laugh and jog your memory about the importance of plumbing in case you ever forget.

Fact or Fiction

It’s a commonly held belief that water in toilets flushes clockwise in some parts of the world, and in the opposite direction in others. In fact this has nothing to do with location and everything to do with the way the toilet’s rim jets are facing. Any toilet can flush in either direction.

Famous Plumbers

Albert Einstein once said that if he could live his life over again he would’ve been a plumber. So he was named an honorary member of The Plumbers and Steamfitters Union. Other famous plumbers include Mario and Luigi of the Super Mario Bros Nintendo games. These two fictional plumbers have been featured in over two hundred games since the game’s invention in the mid nineteen-eighties.

Toilet Paper Talk

A recent study was conducted to find out whether people put their toilet paper on the holder with the flap in the front or in the rear. The study which cost one-hundred thousand dollars to complete concluded that three out of four people have the flap facing the front of the holder.

Entomology of the Word Plumbing

The word plumbing and all the variations of the word come from the Latin word for lead, plumbum. This is because pipes used to be made of lead. The abbreviation for the element of lead on the periodic table of elements is also Pb, and it is based on the same word. During the Vietnam War President Nixon tasked “plumbers” to investigate intelligence leaks.

Toilet Time

The average person spends three years of their life sitting on the toilet. That’s longer than a person spends on vacation. Imagine what else you could accomplish using all that time. A British king even died by falling off of a toilet! Be careful the next time you take a seat!

How to Find a Qualified Plumber in Your Area

A plumber in your area might not know all these fun facts about plumbing but that doesn’t mean that he or she isn’t qualified to provide the necessary plumbing services or repairs to your home or business. If you’re looking for a plumber in DC for example, do a simple online search to find the right plumber for you. Or you can also ask your friends, family or colleagues for a recommendation. No matter how you find a skilled, experienced plumber, these humorous facts about plumbing are sure to remind you just how important plumbing is.

3 DIY Tasks That Should Be Done Before A Plumbing Service Call

October 8, 2016DIY Plumbing, Helpful Hintsmatt

Many homeowners incur high service charges due to poor planning and preparation before a service call. Typically, plumbers charge by the hour, which means that the plumber is paid for every hour he/she spends at the client’s home or premises. However, some of these chargeable hours are actually wasted on relatively mundane tasks that can be handled quite easily by the client before the plumber even arrives. These are simple DIY worksite preparation tasks that require common sense rather than expertise, but which can end up saving you a great deal of money on a service call. Before discussing these DIY tasks, it is important to review the buildup to a plumbing service call. Whether it’s an emergency service call like a backed up sewer system or water heater repair or a big project call like a bathroom renovation undertaking, there are things that should always be done before the plumber arrives. First of all, you should always inspect and assess the magnitude of the plumbing problem before calling in a professional plumber. In this way, you will be able to ascertain whether you really need the services of a professional plumber or if a simple DIY fix will resolve the issue. If the problem is serious enough to warrant a service call, such as a sewer line problem, you can then contact any expert plumber offering DC sewer services for assistance. However, you must do the following things before the plumber arrives — to save time and reduce the service charge.

Clear The Worksite

One of the most important things that should be done before the plumber arrives is to clear out the plumbing area to enable the plumber to work quickly and efficiently. Some plumbing areas are usually cluttered with various household items, such as utensils near and around the sink or home items by the water heater worksite. Although it’s normal to store or place various items near these areas on ordinary days, it is imperative that you remove any unnecessary items from a faulty plumbing section before the plumber comes. Otherwise you will waste precious moments, which could be used to handle the actual plumbing problem, clearing the plumbing site with the professional plumber(s). In order to reduce the billable hours, ensure that the plumber has ample room to work and to store plumbing tools and to place removed faulty parts and even replacement parts before they are installed.

Turn Off The Electricity

Some serious plumbing issues necessitate that the entire home electric system be shut off at the mains, such as a seriously malfunctioning water heater system. Other problems require that the electric connection to a particular area or appliance be shut off at the breaker box, such as a hot tub installation. Depending on the nature of the plumbing problem, you should always turn of the power source of an electric-powered device or system. Switching off the electricity in a faulty system will not only save the plumber time, it will also ensure safety at home.

Shut-Off The Water

Almost all plumbing problems are water-related. As such, the first thing that should be done before the plumber arrives is to turn off the water at the main shut-off valve. Typically, the main shut-off is usually located near the water meter. By turning off the water, you will mitigate the physical damage that might occur due to the plumbing fault, such as leaking pipes, and also save time for the plumber. If there are no leaks or floods occurring, at least locate and know where the shut-off valve is so if the plumber needs it turned off, you are prepared.

3 Most Recommendable Alternative Kitchen Floor Ideas

September 21, 2016Helpful Hintsmatt

Despite the inherent budgetary constraints in a low-end or “on a budget” kitchen remodeling project, you can still come up with an amazing design style that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. You only need to be think “outside-the-box” — be creative, innovative and daring. This means that you have to embrace the idea of experimenting with bold, unique design options. One of the most dynamic design sections during a kitchen remodeling project is the floor. There are four conventional/traditional kitchen floor types: hardwood, vinyl, ceramic tiles, and laminate. Additionally, there are several green/eco-friendly materials like linoleum, bamboo and cork flooring that might be considered by environmental conservation enthusiasts. For the most imaginative kitchen renovators, there are three alternative kitchen floor ideas that might be more appealing to you than any of the aforementioned choices: rubber, carpet tiles and concrete.

Carpet Tiles

Available in many different colors, styles and patterns to match any desired look, carpet tiles offer an exciting and functional addition to the kitchen décor. They can be used as customized rugs to mark eating spaces or to create soft floor workspace zones. Carpet tiles feature a reinforced backing that inhibits mold or bacterial growth. They can be removed, rearranged and replaced easily — making them easy to clean and maintain.

Recycled carpet tiles, which are made by grinding up used vinyl and nylon carpeting, are a popular alternative floor type. In some cases, both the carpet surface and backing are made from recycled materials. Recycled carpet tiles offer a myriad of benefits as kitchen floors. First of all, unlike traditional carpet tiles, which produce poisonous gas in the house, recycled carpet tiles are made from recycled materials without any toxic, petroleum-based chemicals. Secondly, they are very strong and durable. Thirdly, they allow enhanced design flexibility and versatility — you can mix and match various tiles to create any desired carpeting pattern or style. Also, their modularity allows easy installation and pattern manipulation; as desired any the designer. Finally, they are environmentally friendly ensuring a healthier home and planet.

Concrete

Concrete is perhaps the most advantageous alternative kitchen floor in use today. Although it looks like stone, concrete can be customized through dying, texturing, stamping and scoring to achieve any desired look or appearance. To complement your kitchen décor, consult an experienced kitchen remodeler and discuss the best options for your project. For instance, consult any reputable company, which engages in DC plumbing renovations, if you live in the Washington city region. Concrete is far much cheaper than stone and it absorbs heat; thereby reducing energy bills.

Because it inhibits mold, mildew, and odors, concrete improves air quality in the home; it can also be finished with zero-VOC sealers. Suitable for an urban-chic kitchen style, concrete is durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean and maintain — best option for households with kids and pets. Concrete slabs are also becoming popular finished kitchen flooring options.

Rubber

Rubber is available as either sheet or tiles and it comes in a vast array of colors, patterns and textures. Recommended for contemporary kitchen remodeling styles, rubber is strong, affordable, durable and easy to clean. It is nonporous, does not burn easily, and requires easy DIY installation. It is warm, soft and springy, and noiseless to walk on. There are also eco-friendly rubber floors made from recycled rubber and rubber-cork blends.

5 Amazing Tips To Maximize Bathroom Space

September 21, 2016Bathroom Remodeling, Helpful Hintsmatt

One of the main reasons for doing bathroom renovations or makeovers is to create extra space. With an emphasis on the creation of an idyllic bathroom space, all modern-day bathroom remodeling designs aim at maximizing the available space to ensure a cozy, spa-like bath experience. In most cases, it is not possible to extend the physical space of the bathroom in terms of square footage. Luckily, home remodelers have discovered some clever interior design techniques that can be implemented to create an expansive feel/tone in a relatively small space. Consider the following ingenious space optimization ideas to create a “big” comfortable room in the existing tiny bathroom space.

Glass And Reflective Surfaces

Glass and reflective surfaces help to make the bathroom space appear larger than it really is. Use a lot of glass in the most experiential sections of the bathroom, such as the entrance to the shower space, to create an expansive spa-like environment. Include a lot of reflective surfaces including the countertops, cabinets, vanities, fixtures and shelves to enhance the expansive feel in the bathroom. Installing large mirrors to reflect the soft wall colors will also optimize the “big space” illusion. You can also use the common technique of installing two mirrors (or more in a tiered design) on opposite walls to create multiple reflections at each other and create an illusion of continuing space where there is none.

Lighting (Natural And Artificial)

Create an open, airy feel by directing natural/sun light into the bathroom using various window installations. If the bathroom layout permits it, place a bay window in your small bathroom. Otherwise, install either a small operable or glass-block window outside, or in the shower, to allow as much sunlight as possible into the shower area. You can also consider installing regular/tubular skylights to trap as much sunlight as possible.

Use recessed lighting techniques to enhance the brilliance of the bathroom space without appearing too obtrusive. Install recessed lighting fixtures in any part of the ceiling and focus them on any area to make it more open and expansive in appearance. To ensure energy efficiency and avoid heat-related discomfort, choose the number and type of artificial lighting fixtures carefully.

Floor Space

Implement functional space substitution tactics to create “extra” floor space in your bathroom. For instance, if you have alternative storage space, consider replacing your vanity cabinet with an “economically sized” fixture like a wall-mount sink or a pedestal. Although the freed up space is not functional, it creates the illusion of a larger bathroom. Consult your residential plumber on insightful space maximization tips such as these. For instance, contact any professional plumbing company specializing in DC bathroom renovations if you live in the Washington DC city area. Discuss any other productive space usage tips with these plumbing experts, such as installing wall-mount toilets or replacing larger toilets with smaller ones to enhance the “large space” effect.

Color Schemes

Create the illusion of a much larger space by painting the bathroom floors and walls with pale, soft colors. Deep/dark, rich/strong colors are unsuitable for small bathroom spaces. If you wish to brighten the décor with bright colors, buy radiant accessories, towels, and decorations.

Embellishments

Go for “space expanding” decorations like crown moldings to maximize tiny ceiling space. Choose and install a crown molding of the right size and type to expose the space itself and ensure longevity. Tiles can also be used to create a contemporary and visually appealing bathroom scene. Combine one or two of the above mentioned techniques for optimal space results.

3 Most Popular Kitchen Remodeling Designs

September 21, 2016Helpful Hintsmatt

Picking your favorite kitchen design is one of the most important activities during the planning stage of your kitchen remodeling project. Depending on your functional and aesthetic needs and preferences, you might opt for a conventional or a hybrid kitchen design style. Needless to say, your budget will play a huge role in determining the most appropriate design style for your kitchen. Depending on the kitchen layout and features, there are three main/conventional types of kitchen designs: gourmet, family-friendly and entertaining. If you wish, you can implement an altered/hybrid version of any of these styles by combining some features from each or all of them. To choose rationally, consult a reliable kitchen remodeler in your locality. For instance, search for any professional plumbing company offering DC kitchen renovations in its service bouquet if you live in Washington. Outline your project features to these experts and request their advice on the most appropriate design for your kitchen.

Gourmet Kitchen

Regarded as the best option for a foodie, this bon vivant kitchen design focuses on functional performance as opposed to aesthetic appeal. A gourmet kitchen features professional appliances and fixtures, ample facilities for specialty storage, and durable and easy-to-maintain countertops and surfaces. Appliances and fixtures are chosen for performance and the layout focuses on functional zones for food preparation and cookery, meal service, and after-meals cleanup.

They usually feature multiple sinks, lowered countertops for baking, wood butcher-block counters for food chopping, open shelving storage cabinets, and large tile, rubber or wooden floors that are easier on the feet. Quartz is usually the surface of choice because it is strong, easy-to-clean, stain-resistant, nonporous, and durable. They usually have task lighting fixtures like under-cabinet lighting and pendants to focus light on specific workspace zones. Some of the most common gourmet kitchen appliances and features include professional-grade gas ranges, double ovens, warming drawers, dishwasher drawers, convectional microwaves and stand-alone refrigerators.

Entertaining Kitchen

Regardless of the space size, entertaining kitchens are designed to host house guests — whether for casual or formal parties, buffets or sit-downs among other events. They feature specialty features that are meant to ease the service of food and beverages in the kitchen area. Although space is not a key factor, you should consider the floor space in relation to the expected number of guests per session.

To underline the functional nature of this design, entertaining kitchens merit sleek appliances for entertainment, such as flat screen TVs, glass cabinets to display beautiful dishware, and point-of-service refrigeration, instead of professional-grade kitchen equipment. Mostly, these kitchens are adorned with stainless steel features including warming drawers, double dishwashers and wine coolers. In some cases, raised countertops are used as cooking spaces and to hide dishes, while in other cases they serve as party dining surfaces (snack bars, dining tables or support surfaces for guests).

Family-Centered Kitchen

As the name suggests, family-centered kitchen designs include features and a layout that aims at optimizing the functional value of the kitchen in relation to household needs. Basically, this design style must cater for individual cooking and nutrition needs for each and every member of the family including the kids, pets and even the parents as they prepare household meals. Although gourmet and entertaining kitchens include family-friendly features, family-centered designs focus only on creating functional household kitchen spaces. To enhance the functionality of the kitchen as demanded by the household, family-centered kitchen designs empathize space planning and cabinet storage features.

Family-centered kitchens feature easy-to-clean and durable countertop surfaces and floors like quartz or laminate, accessible pantry cabinets for storage of foodstuffs, snack bars, refrigerator drawers, and convectional microwaves. These kitchen designs usually feature an open plan layout that blends the kitchen and the living room together.

Splurge And Save Tips For Your Kitchen Remodeling Project

September 20, 2016Helpful Hintsmatt

With the ever-rising cost of living, home remodeling project can turn into a budgetary nightmare for its financiers. Similarly, a typical kitchen remodeling project is likely to stretch your spending limits and might even stall halfway through if not properly planned. The secret to any successful home renovation/makeover project is to identify areas/sections that require heavy spending and those that can enable you to save. In order to determine the key areas to save and spend on, you must first outline your project needs, preferences and objectives. Depending on your budget, your kitchen remodeling project might turn out to be high-end, average, or “on a budget.” Whichever the case, you must highlight your focal points and your priority features; either functional or aesthetic installations. In addition to your custom remodeling save/splurge focal points, the following tips will come in handy when considering general budgetary allocations for each section of your kitchen.

Countertops

Unless the countertop is the focal point of your kitchen design, save on it. If you have a low to medium size kitchen remodeling budget, consider the use of placeholders for countertops. Simply put, instead of straining your budget with an expensive countertop like marble, go for a cheaper option, such as a half-priced laminate lookalike, to function as your work surface stand-in until you get money to upgrade in the future. Consult an experienced kitchen renovator and ask for useful saving tips on countertop styles. This idea can be carried over into many areas of your renovations, and talking everything over with a professional Washington plumber providing DC plumbing upgrades will assist you greatly. Also, source for similar but cheaper countertop material alternatives — instead of splurging on an expensive grade 5 granite countertop, choose a grade 2 surface for a better ROI.

Cabinets

Be prepared to spend heavily on cabinetry. Basically, cabinet costs will soar when you include delivery expenses, taxes and installation costs. Additionally, the installation of various cabinetry features like drawers, shelves, roll-out trays, ceiling high cabinet extensions and corner cabinet fit-outs will increase the costs significantly. When budgeting for cabinetry, splurge on functionality and durability. For instance, install drawers in base cabinets to enhance storage accessibility and go for ceiling-high wall cabinets for more storage. A waste recycling unit is a must-have and soft-close drawers and cabinet doors are a necessary convenience today. Although you are advised to save on the actual cabinet construction materials, such as choosing veneer over solid wood, use plywood instead of particle board to build cabinet sides and shelves in order to ensure strength and longevity.

Appliances

Because they are the most utilized features in the kitchen, splurge on appliances. Focus on energy quality and efficiency as indicated by warranties and product features. However, ensure a balance between your budget for appliances and hardware installations. If you overspend on any of these features, you will risk having a stalled project due to diminished implementation funds. Select stainless steel appliances to ensure longevity, attractiveness and home value enhancement.

Hardware and Fixtures

Refresh your kitchen cabinet looks by installing new knobs, pulls and handles. These functional and aesthetic enhancements can be acquired for very little money; provided you consider their quality. Enhance the visual appeal of your kitchen and render a rich tasteful décor by replacing the brushed stainless steel hardware with trendy oil-rubbed bronze, nickel or pewter options. Likewise, choose a finish that gives your faucets and sinks a classy and tasteful appeal.

Tiles

Use ceramic tiles to create unique wall back-splashes and large porcelain tiles to give an updated and modern outlook to the kitchen floor. As compared to natural stone, porcelain tiles are hardy, affordable and durable surface materials that are able to resist cracking and chipping. Save on floor tiles by choosing porcelain tiles that resemble natural stone, but spend on back-splash deco tile designs like glass tile mosaics.

Comparing The Most Common Kitchen Countertop Styles

September 20, 2016Helpful Hintsmatt

Like all other expansive kitchen installations, countertops highlight the beauty and performance of the visible room surfaces and spaces. If you decide to make countertops the focal point of your kitchen remodeling project, be ready to splurge a significant portion of your budget on them. In such a case, you should base your entire kitchen design including the color scheme, cabinets and furniture installations on the appearance and nature of your showpiece countertop. Even for low budget kitchen renovations, you can still install incredible countertops by being creative and overtly imaginative. It is advisable to seek the services of an expert remodeler in your locality for assistance on these intricate countertop design decisions. You can consult any professional plumber offering DC plumbing services and home makeover services if you live in the Washington DC region. Mostly, you will need to choose a suitable option from the following countertop styles.

Butcher Block

Butcher block countertops are made from wood. They are quite affordable and relatively easy (DIY) to install. Like all other wood surfaces and finishes, butcher block projects warmth and a natural kitchen outlook. It matches and complements stainless steel fixtures, appliances and stretch cabinets. However, butcher block is susceptible to knife cuts and is damaged — warped and cracked — by heat, humidity and excess moisture. Because it is not stain resistant, oil the butcher block regularly and clean it with a damp cloth and soap. Mild nicks can be sanded away but avoid chopping directly on the block’s surface to enhance longevity. Maple is the most popular option — other choices include teak, oak and walnut.

Natural Stone

There are two main types of natural stone countertops: granite and marble. Both granite and marble have the traditional look of natural stone and are considered high-end/luxurious preference in kitchen remodeling projects. Granite comes in many different color combinations enabling you to choose a unique, enticing pattern and style for your kitchen.

Granite is available in many different grades, with some relatively affordable (lower) grades available in the market today. Comparatively, marble is still quite expensive. Be careful when selecting granite to avoid buying “bad” granite with natural fissures that look like chips. Natural stone countertops are porous and prone to staining, etching and chipping. Therefore, seal granite and marble countertops regularly and wipe spills quickly to ward off stains. Avoid placing hot items directly on the granite countertop to keep it from cracking and getting discolored.

Laminate

Available in a variety of popular brand types like Formica and seamless laminate, this is one of the most affordable kitchen countertop styles. Laminate is available in a huge number of looks, patterns, solid colors and styles including wood and natural stone lookalikes. Faulted for not being as durable as natural stone, laminate survives a moderate lifespan period of about 10 years or so. Because it is susceptible to burns, scratches and chipping, laminate requires careful cleaning and maintenance. Clean it with soapy water and a very soft cloth and avoid the use of abrasive cleaners to keep it from scratching. Protect the countertop surface from heat by always placing hot dishes on trivets.

Quartz

Engineered quartz is the hardiest — it’s stain and scratch resistant and waterproof — and one of the most attractive kitchen countertop styles in the market today. Engineered quartz is a mix of materials, made from pulverized and ground natural stone and then mixed with polymer resins. It comes in countless colors, styles and patterns including solid colors and natural stone stand-ins. Except for the routine wipe with a damp cloth, quartz requires no maintenance. Although it costs as much as some types of natural stone like marble, quartz countertop is an artificially produced material.