You don't use hot water 24 hours a day. But, you're paying to heat water 24 hours a day if you have a standard water heater. With a standard water heater, you heat and reheat the same water…even when you're sleeping. The tankless water heater is a more efficient way to heat water. The tankless water heater heats water only when you turn the faucet on. The tankless water heater heats water quickly and delivers an endless supply of hot water for as long as you need it. With a tankless water heater, you only pay to heat water when you need it and for as long as you want it.
Tankless water heaters costs more than conventional water heaters (from $600 to $1,300 plus accessories and installation) but save you money on monthly electical cost, and they never run out of hot water. You will appreciate endless hot water if you are the second or third person in your family to take a shower. On the average, you will save about $10 per month on your electric bill. That does not sound like much savings but the real reward is endless water. Most tankless water heaters are waranted for 10 years, but since there is no tank, it should last much longer.
Bottom line is that the electrical savings will not pay for the difference in cost of the heater, but it will add resale value to your home and you will never run out of water.
For more information, check some of the water heater companies below
Rinnai
Rheem
SETS
SEISCO
Noritz
Saturday, July 22, 2006
Carpet Selection Process
STAINMASTER carpet is one of the top names in carpet. They want you to know what questions to ask of any carpet dealer when buying carpet and also some of the reasons STAINMASTER carpet should be on your short list when carpet shopping.
Carpet dealers usually carry samples of many carpet lines from multiple mills and manufacturers in their showrooms. You'll see a range of quality when you begin your carpet search. Your best bet is to educate yourself and research your options before you head to the store. Then, you're sure to get a quality carpet that provides comfort, durability and beauty far into the future.
Below is a helpful guide to understanding what to expect when visiting a carpet dealer.
Room Use
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Be prepared for your dealer to ask some of the following questions:
How is the room going to be used?
Is there light or heavy room traffic in the room?
Is the room the center of activity for family or entertaining?
Is there direct access from outside?
What You Should Know:
By asking these questions, the dealer is trying to gauge which grade and style of carpet would work best for your home.
Try to give a detailed picture of your expectations for the carpet. Is it important that the carpet stand up to pets, running children and bustling activity? Or are you mainly concerned about how it will look and feel in a formal living room that doesn't get a lot of use?
Color and Style
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Typically, a dealer might ask:
How much use will the room get? (This is a consideration because a heavily used room may not be the best place to install white or very light-colored carpet.)
Are kids going to be playing down on the floor? Or is it a formal room that doesn't get much use? (Again, lighter colors my create more maintenance but another factor the dealer is trying to consider is whether you should choose carpet made with BCF fiber like STAINMASTER® so that children playing on the floor will not find themselves covered in loose fibers shed from staple products.)
Is it a small room or a large room? (Smaller rooms can be made to feel larger by selecting a lighter colored carpet while larger rooms can be made to feel cozier by using a mid-to-darker colored carpet.)
What are the lighting conditions in the room? (Rooms with plenty of natural light will show the true color of the carpet while rooms on the north side of a house may need a lighter shade of carpet to keep them from feeling darker than they are.)
What You Should Know:
You should always remember to bring swatches of fabric from drapes and furniture, wallpaper samples, and paint chips with you when you are selecting carpet. That way you can consider a range of colors that will match your existing décor. Remember that color can also affect your mood. Warmer colors often make you feel energized while cooler tones provide a sense of calm.
When considering color, remember the lighting in the carpet store is not the same as the lighting conditions in your home. Ask the dealer if they have a lighting box in which to view the carpet, or ask if you can take a sample of the carpet home.
Cost
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Typically, a dealer might ask:
Are you installing this carpet for the purposes of selling the home or are you re-decorating it for your enjoyment?
What is the size of the room to be carpeted?
What You Should Know:
The dealer is trying to determine what style of carpet you might be interested in. A home seller is going to want to select a neutral toned carpet in a simple style, like a cut pile texture. But a home owner who is re-decorating will want to explore the many varieties available to them. Either way, STAINMASTER® carpet is a good choice.
STAINMASTER® warranties are transferable to the new owner, a great selling tool, while home owners who will be living with their carpet selection will want the long-lasting durability and beauty of a STAINMASTER® carpet. Also, the dealer needs to know the approximate size of the area to be carpeted in order to give an estimate on total cost.
Come prepared with a rough estimate of the size of your room and the layout. Check out our handy Carpet Calculator if you need help measuring. When you're ready to buy, the dealer will send a professional to take the final measurements.
Make sure that all cost estimates include padding, installation, seaming, stairs (if applicable), thresholds, the moving of furniture and the removal of old carpet or other flooring and materials.
Always make sure that you are selecting from the highest grade carpet you can afford. With STAINMASTER® carpet, the higher the grade, the more comprehensive the STAINMASTER® warranty will be. STAINMASTER®, a name you know and trust, only guarantees the finest, first quality carpet. Because of the patented technology that goes into it, and the company that stands behind it, your STAINMASTER® carpet will provide beauty and comfort for years to come.
Quality
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
While in the store, it may seem that many carpets look the same. But not all carpets perform the same. It's the technology behind the carpet that makes a difference.
What You Should Know:
Only STAINMASTER® carpets offer the exclusive three-part system for lasting beauty:
6,6 Nylon Technology
With this patented fiber technology, STAINMASTER® carpets resist crushing, abrasive wear and color fading. The unique molecular structure of 6,6 nylon make it much more resilient than carpet fiber made from polyester, polypropylene and other types of nylon. Plus, this specially designed fiber keeps soil and stains from penetrating.
DuPont Advanced TEFLON® Protectant
This superior soil resistance technology enables SM carpet fibers to push dirt away, allowing it to be removed more easily with a vacuum cleaner. And the Stain Protection reduces the fibers ability to absorb liquids, greatly limiting its ability to become stained. This unique soil and stain protection lasts much longer than other carpets' protection, which must be re-applied after each cleaning in order to maintain their warranties.
Anti-Static Technology
The fibers in every STAINMASTER® carpet contain a special carbon compound that act like thousands of tiny lighting rods, deflecting static shock for the life of the carpet. Most other carpets are sprayed with anti-static protection that can wear off with foot traffic and successive cleanings.
Why is anti-stat protection important? With our homes filled with expensive electronics these days, the last thing you want is to short circuit a computer or audio system simply by walking on your carpet and touching a device. Anti-stat protection offers peace of mind for homeowners where their electronic investments are concerned.
Labeling
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At the store, you'll see lots of labels from different mills and manufacturers. You might get confused as to what type of carpet you are looking at.
What You Should Know:
Look for the STAINMASTER® label on the back of the dealer's sample. That's the only way to guarantee a carpet that features STAINMASTER®'s comprehensive warranties, anti-static controls, resilient fibers and a carpet surface that actually repels dirt and soil.
Click here for more flooring and carpet Information
Carpet dealers usually carry samples of many carpet lines from multiple mills and manufacturers in their showrooms. You'll see a range of quality when you begin your carpet search. Your best bet is to educate yourself and research your options before you head to the store. Then, you're sure to get a quality carpet that provides comfort, durability and beauty far into the future.
Below is a helpful guide to understanding what to expect when visiting a carpet dealer.
Room Use
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Be prepared for your dealer to ask some of the following questions:
How is the room going to be used?
Is there light or heavy room traffic in the room?
Is the room the center of activity for family or entertaining?
Is there direct access from outside?
What You Should Know:
By asking these questions, the dealer is trying to gauge which grade and style of carpet would work best for your home.
Try to give a detailed picture of your expectations for the carpet. Is it important that the carpet stand up to pets, running children and bustling activity? Or are you mainly concerned about how it will look and feel in a formal living room that doesn't get a lot of use?
Color and Style
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Typically, a dealer might ask:
How much use will the room get? (This is a consideration because a heavily used room may not be the best place to install white or very light-colored carpet.)
Are kids going to be playing down on the floor? Or is it a formal room that doesn't get much use? (Again, lighter colors my create more maintenance but another factor the dealer is trying to consider is whether you should choose carpet made with BCF fiber like STAINMASTER® so that children playing on the floor will not find themselves covered in loose fibers shed from staple products.)
Is it a small room or a large room? (Smaller rooms can be made to feel larger by selecting a lighter colored carpet while larger rooms can be made to feel cozier by using a mid-to-darker colored carpet.)
What are the lighting conditions in the room? (Rooms with plenty of natural light will show the true color of the carpet while rooms on the north side of a house may need a lighter shade of carpet to keep them from feeling darker than they are.)
What You Should Know:
You should always remember to bring swatches of fabric from drapes and furniture, wallpaper samples, and paint chips with you when you are selecting carpet. That way you can consider a range of colors that will match your existing décor. Remember that color can also affect your mood. Warmer colors often make you feel energized while cooler tones provide a sense of calm.
When considering color, remember the lighting in the carpet store is not the same as the lighting conditions in your home. Ask the dealer if they have a lighting box in which to view the carpet, or ask if you can take a sample of the carpet home.
Cost
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Typically, a dealer might ask:
Are you installing this carpet for the purposes of selling the home or are you re-decorating it for your enjoyment?
What is the size of the room to be carpeted?
What You Should Know:
The dealer is trying to determine what style of carpet you might be interested in. A home seller is going to want to select a neutral toned carpet in a simple style, like a cut pile texture. But a home owner who is re-decorating will want to explore the many varieties available to them. Either way, STAINMASTER® carpet is a good choice.
STAINMASTER® warranties are transferable to the new owner, a great selling tool, while home owners who will be living with their carpet selection will want the long-lasting durability and beauty of a STAINMASTER® carpet. Also, the dealer needs to know the approximate size of the area to be carpeted in order to give an estimate on total cost.
Come prepared with a rough estimate of the size of your room and the layout. Check out our handy Carpet Calculator if you need help measuring. When you're ready to buy, the dealer will send a professional to take the final measurements.
Make sure that all cost estimates include padding, installation, seaming, stairs (if applicable), thresholds, the moving of furniture and the removal of old carpet or other flooring and materials.
Always make sure that you are selecting from the highest grade carpet you can afford. With STAINMASTER® carpet, the higher the grade, the more comprehensive the STAINMASTER® warranty will be. STAINMASTER®, a name you know and trust, only guarantees the finest, first quality carpet. Because of the patented technology that goes into it, and the company that stands behind it, your STAINMASTER® carpet will provide beauty and comfort for years to come.
Quality
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
While in the store, it may seem that many carpets look the same. But not all carpets perform the same. It's the technology behind the carpet that makes a difference.
What You Should Know:
Only STAINMASTER® carpets offer the exclusive three-part system for lasting beauty:
6,6 Nylon Technology
With this patented fiber technology, STAINMASTER® carpets resist crushing, abrasive wear and color fading. The unique molecular structure of 6,6 nylon make it much more resilient than carpet fiber made from polyester, polypropylene and other types of nylon. Plus, this specially designed fiber keeps soil and stains from penetrating.
DuPont Advanced TEFLON® Protectant
This superior soil resistance technology enables SM carpet fibers to push dirt away, allowing it to be removed more easily with a vacuum cleaner. And the Stain Protection reduces the fibers ability to absorb liquids, greatly limiting its ability to become stained. This unique soil and stain protection lasts much longer than other carpets' protection, which must be re-applied after each cleaning in order to maintain their warranties.
Anti-Static Technology
The fibers in every STAINMASTER® carpet contain a special carbon compound that act like thousands of tiny lighting rods, deflecting static shock for the life of the carpet. Most other carpets are sprayed with anti-static protection that can wear off with foot traffic and successive cleanings.
Why is anti-stat protection important? With our homes filled with expensive electronics these days, the last thing you want is to short circuit a computer or audio system simply by walking on your carpet and touching a device. Anti-stat protection offers peace of mind for homeowners where their electronic investments are concerned.
Labeling
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
At the store, you'll see lots of labels from different mills and manufacturers. You might get confused as to what type of carpet you are looking at.
What You Should Know:
Look for the STAINMASTER® label on the back of the dealer's sample. That's the only way to guarantee a carpet that features STAINMASTER®'s comprehensive warranties, anti-static controls, resilient fibers and a carpet surface that actually repels dirt and soil.
Click here for more flooring and carpet Information
Characteristics of Carpet
Shopping for carpet? Here are some tips from Stainmaster carpet to help you speak the language before you buy. Here are some general terms for understanding how carpet is made and how to judge carpet quality.
Durability
The measure of how long your carpet will look and feel good. Ideally, carpet will retain its original texture and appearance for years to come. Durability depends on finding the right balance of three important factors defined below:
Fiber
During carpet manufacturing, natural or synthetic fiber is converted to yarn and tufted, or locked into a backing to form the pile or surface that you walk on. There are five major types of carpet fiber - nylon 6,6, nylon 6, polypropylene (olefin), polyester, and wool; the most popular being nylon.
Ideal for carpeting, nylon 6,6 is a man-made fiber that is wear-resistant (soil and stain resistant). Its natural properties allow for a very wide range of colors and color blends and the newest fibers offer the look and feel of wool, but with much less maintenance and expense. All STAINMASTER® carpets are made of 100% premium nylon 6,6 fiber with soil and stain protection not found in other fibers.
Twist
The twist of the fiber is the way the fiber filaments are spun into yarn, and how the yarn is in turn twisted upon itself. Twist is usually locked into the fiber with a steam or heat-setting. The tighter the twist, the more the carpet will resist changes in appearance and texture. All STAINMASTER® carpet construction is conducted under strict twisting specifications.
Density
Density describes the amount of pile in the carpet and how close the tufts are to one another. In general, the more dense the carpet the better the quality. Check density by pressing your fingers on the carpet and trying to reach the backing. It will be difficult to reach the backing of a very dense carpet. With the tufts facing outward, bend the carpet into a U shape to see how much of the carpet backing shows. The less backing you see, the more dense the carpet.
Click here for more carpet information
Durability
The measure of how long your carpet will look and feel good. Ideally, carpet will retain its original texture and appearance for years to come. Durability depends on finding the right balance of three important factors defined below:
Fiber
During carpet manufacturing, natural or synthetic fiber is converted to yarn and tufted, or locked into a backing to form the pile or surface that you walk on. There are five major types of carpet fiber - nylon 6,6, nylon 6, polypropylene (olefin), polyester, and wool; the most popular being nylon.
Ideal for carpeting, nylon 6,6 is a man-made fiber that is wear-resistant (soil and stain resistant). Its natural properties allow for a very wide range of colors and color blends and the newest fibers offer the look and feel of wool, but with much less maintenance and expense. All STAINMASTER® carpets are made of 100% premium nylon 6,6 fiber with soil and stain protection not found in other fibers.
Twist
The twist of the fiber is the way the fiber filaments are spun into yarn, and how the yarn is in turn twisted upon itself. Twist is usually locked into the fiber with a steam or heat-setting. The tighter the twist, the more the carpet will resist changes in appearance and texture. All STAINMASTER® carpet construction is conducted under strict twisting specifications.
Density
Density describes the amount of pile in the carpet and how close the tufts are to one another. In general, the more dense the carpet the better the quality. Check density by pressing your fingers on the carpet and trying to reach the backing. It will be difficult to reach the backing of a very dense carpet. With the tufts facing outward, bend the carpet into a U shape to see how much of the carpet backing shows. The less backing you see, the more dense the carpet.
Click here for more carpet information
Friday, July 21, 2006
Installing Hardwood Floors on Concrete
Installing hardwood floors on concrete can sometimes be a problem because of the moisture content of the concrete. Some installations use a plywood sub-floor while others glue the wood directly to the concrete. If the wood is glued to the concrete, the moisture content must be very low or it can cause the wood to expand and buckle. A plywood sub-floor can be used to prevent this problem during new construction, but adding sub-flooring to a existing room may raise the floor higher level than the adjoining rooms and may prevent doors from operating properly.
Moisture Testing Floors
If you want to glue the wood to the floor, you must do moisture testing. Unfortunately many stores that handle a variety of floor coverings do not have properly trained people or equipment to test for moisture. Moisture awareness and control is critical for successful hardwood flooring installations. What may look like a flawless floor after the installer has left may turn into your worst nightmare months later when moisture begins make the floor expand or contract. If a hardwood installer does not check the moisture content with a meter similar to the one in the photo on the right, stop him! Find a company that has people trained to do a moisture test, find out from the flooring manufacturer what the maximum concrete moisture can be for their wood, then have the floor tested and get the results so you can decide whether to go ahead with the installation. Engineered hardwood can usually withstand more moisture than solid wood. The glue used can also make a difference. Some glues are better moisture barriers than others.
Click Here For The Rest of The Story
Moisture Testing Floors
If you want to glue the wood to the floor, you must do moisture testing. Unfortunately many stores that handle a variety of floor coverings do not have properly trained people or equipment to test for moisture. Moisture awareness and control is critical for successful hardwood flooring installations. What may look like a flawless floor after the installer has left may turn into your worst nightmare months later when moisture begins make the floor expand or contract. If a hardwood installer does not check the moisture content with a meter similar to the one in the photo on the right, stop him! Find a company that has people trained to do a moisture test, find out from the flooring manufacturer what the maximum concrete moisture can be for their wood, then have the floor tested and get the results so you can decide whether to go ahead with the installation. Engineered hardwood can usually withstand more moisture than solid wood. The glue used can also make a difference. Some glues are better moisture barriers than others.
Click Here For The Rest of The Story
Solid Surface Countertops
Many Granite Countertop fabricators also supply Solid Surface countertops manufactured by LG Hi-Macs, Technistone and Karadon. Developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with today’s sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind, these engineered stone materials combine the desirable characteristics of both solid surface products such as Corian® with natural stone products such as Granite and Marble. In bringing together these qualities, synthetic or man made countertop materials eliminate the weaknesses of both. Depending on your life style or commercial application, solid surface countertops may be a better choice than granite.
Technistone® Quartz Countertops
Technistone was developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with today’s sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind. Technistone engineered stone combines the desirable characteristics of both solid surface products such as Corian® with natural stone products such as Granite and Marble. In bringing together these qualities, Technistone eliminates the weaknesses of both. Technistone truly is the “next generation” in solid surface and stone surfacing. Depending on your life style or commercial application, quartz countertops may be a better choice than granite. Read on to learn more about this superior man-made countertop material. More information here..
LG HI-MACS Acrylic Solid Surface
LG HI-MACS Acrylic Solid Surface is a solid homogeneous sheet or slab resistant to stains. This means the color and design are consistent throughout making it ideal for surfaces that are subject to moisture and heavy wear. This nonporous surface rejects the growth of bacteria making it the logical choice in areas of food preparation, even over granite. It has the elegance of stone with affordable quality, giving you creative license to explore your ideas with confidence. more info here
Quartz Countertops
We can install quartz countertops from Cambria and Zodiac for the look of granite and ultimate durability. For those who love the look of granite but are concerned about the drawbacks of color, vein variation and sealing, engineered stone is the answer. Engineered stone is uniform in color, pattern and texture. To the untrained eye, quartz surfaces can appear to be natural stone. Quartz surfaces do not ever need to be sealed and are one of the most durable countertop surfaces. Cambria and Zodiac bring elegance and beauty to any room in your home. Quartz has a beautiful collection of colors and performance to offer. more info here
Craft-Art Wood Countertops
Wood countertops by Craft-Art are not painted or stained. The colors and textures are the natural beauty of solid wood. Craft-Art Countertops are available in a wide range of wood types as well as styles including: plank style, butcher block style and checkerboard style. Wooden countertops are food safe and can be used in daily food preparation. In fact, scientific studies show that wood may be one of the safest working surfaces in kitchens today. The distinctive qualities of Craft-Art countertops are that they are custom made, any size, shape or thickness, furniture-grade waterproof finish, cutouts, curves and notches and special edge treatments.
Click Here For More Solid Surface Information
Technistone® Quartz Countertops
Technistone was developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with today’s sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind. Technistone engineered stone combines the desirable characteristics of both solid surface products such as Corian® with natural stone products such as Granite and Marble. In bringing together these qualities, Technistone eliminates the weaknesses of both. Technistone truly is the “next generation” in solid surface and stone surfacing. Depending on your life style or commercial application, quartz countertops may be a better choice than granite. Read on to learn more about this superior man-made countertop material. More information here..
LG HI-MACS Acrylic Solid Surface
LG HI-MACS Acrylic Solid Surface is a solid homogeneous sheet or slab resistant to stains. This means the color and design are consistent throughout making it ideal for surfaces that are subject to moisture and heavy wear. This nonporous surface rejects the growth of bacteria making it the logical choice in areas of food preparation, even over granite. It has the elegance of stone with affordable quality, giving you creative license to explore your ideas with confidence. more info here
Quartz Countertops
We can install quartz countertops from Cambria and Zodiac for the look of granite and ultimate durability. For those who love the look of granite but are concerned about the drawbacks of color, vein variation and sealing, engineered stone is the answer. Engineered stone is uniform in color, pattern and texture. To the untrained eye, quartz surfaces can appear to be natural stone. Quartz surfaces do not ever need to be sealed and are one of the most durable countertop surfaces. Cambria and Zodiac bring elegance and beauty to any room in your home. Quartz has a beautiful collection of colors and performance to offer. more info here
Craft-Art Wood Countertops
Wood countertops by Craft-Art are not painted or stained. The colors and textures are the natural beauty of solid wood. Craft-Art Countertops are available in a wide range of wood types as well as styles including: plank style, butcher block style and checkerboard style. Wooden countertops are food safe and can be used in daily food preparation. In fact, scientific studies show that wood may be one of the safest working surfaces in kitchens today. The distinctive qualities of Craft-Art countertops are that they are custom made, any size, shape or thickness, furniture-grade waterproof finish, cutouts, curves and notches and special edge treatments.
Click Here For More Solid Surface Information
Granite Countertop Cleaners - Stone Care International and Granite Gold
Daily Cleaner – Household cleaning products containing ammonia should never be used to care for natural stone. Granite Gold Daily Cleaner keeps countertops and stone surfaces clean, leaving a streak-free shine and fresh citrus scent. Safe for all food preparation surfaces. Available in a 24-ounce spray bottle or convenient tub of 40 disposable wipes.
Polish – Granite Gold Polish/Protector beautifies countertops and shower walls, enhancing and conditioning natural stone while leaving additional luster. This ready to use formula resists fingerprints and hard water spots, while reinforcing the sealer. Regular use makes cleaning even easier. Available in a 24-ounce spray bottle.
Penetrating Sealer – Regular use of Granite Gold Penetrating Sealer ensures protection against oil, water and food stains. Its water-based formula penetrates at the molecular level into the stone to provide an effective barrier without changing the natural characteristics of the stone. Granite Gold Penetrating Sealer is non-toxic and safe to use on food preparation surfaces. The Natural Stone Council recommends sealing every 12-18 months. Available in a 24-ounce spray bottle.
Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner – Granite Gold Stone Soap cleans natural stone and tile floors. The concentrated formula mixes with water to emulsify dirt and soil, requiring no rinsing and leaving floors conditioned and protected. Available in a 32-ounce container.
Each item in the Granite Gold line features similar, bold colors and packaging, providing a "family" look for the set of products. Point-of-purchase materials, such as shelf hangers, are available to help drive purchase.
Granite Gold products are designed for use on granite, marble, travertine, limestone and slate. They are also effective when used on natural quartz surfaces and can be safely used on ceramic or porcelain tile and grout. This unique product line, which contains the highest grade of quality ingredients, is user-friendly, non-toxic and safe for the environment.
The Granite Gold Stone Care System is specially formulated and developed by stone care professionals with more than 40 years of experience in the natural stone industry. For more information call 800/475-7866.
More About Granite Countertop Cleaners Here
Polish – Granite Gold Polish/Protector beautifies countertops and shower walls, enhancing and conditioning natural stone while leaving additional luster. This ready to use formula resists fingerprints and hard water spots, while reinforcing the sealer. Regular use makes cleaning even easier. Available in a 24-ounce spray bottle.
Penetrating Sealer – Regular use of Granite Gold Penetrating Sealer ensures protection against oil, water and food stains. Its water-based formula penetrates at the molecular level into the stone to provide an effective barrier without changing the natural characteristics of the stone. Granite Gold Penetrating Sealer is non-toxic and safe to use on food preparation surfaces. The Natural Stone Council recommends sealing every 12-18 months. Available in a 24-ounce spray bottle.
Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner – Granite Gold Stone Soap cleans natural stone and tile floors. The concentrated formula mixes with water to emulsify dirt and soil, requiring no rinsing and leaving floors conditioned and protected. Available in a 32-ounce container.
Each item in the Granite Gold line features similar, bold colors and packaging, providing a "family" look for the set of products. Point-of-purchase materials, such as shelf hangers, are available to help drive purchase.
Granite Gold products are designed for use on granite, marble, travertine, limestone and slate. They are also effective when used on natural quartz surfaces and can be safely used on ceramic or porcelain tile and grout. This unique product line, which contains the highest grade of quality ingredients, is user-friendly, non-toxic and safe for the environment.
The Granite Gold Stone Care System is specially formulated and developed by stone care professionals with more than 40 years of experience in the natural stone industry. For more information call 800/475-7866.
More About Granite Countertop Cleaners Here
Sinks For Granite Countertops
Blanco & Minds Eye Sinks
Most people install new sinks when when they upgrade or remodel their kitchens and bathrooms. There are two types of sinks commonly used with quartz or granite countertops, refereed to as drop-in and under mount. Sinks may be stainless steel, composite, or a number of other materials. When choosing a sink, it is vitally important to make certain that the sink will fit in the cabinet in which it is to be mounted. Keep in mind that the cabinet must always be wider than the sink, i.e. a 30" sink will not fit in a 30" cabinet. There must also be ample room available for the faucet of your choice and any other accessories you may select. We carry a complete line of porcelain and stainless steel sinks for any application.
No doubt about it . . . the sink is the most frequently used area in your kitchen. It’s where you’re likely to be
standing at as family and friends gather in the kitchen before a meal. It’s also the gathering spot, as guests help you clear the table after a delicious feast. Washing vegetables, slicing and dicing, draining pasta, adding water to recipes, rinsing dishes, washing fine crystal, soaking pots and pans, watering plants . . . it all happens at the sink. Morning, noon, and night, from food preparation to clean-up, your sink is a hard working companion. It's exposed to hot and cold, bumps and bruises, nicks and cuts, plus a full array of enemies mounting daily attempts to leave their permanent mark (coffee, tea, wine, fruit juices, beets, etc.) The sink is also a visual focal point, sure to be noticed by all who enter your kitchen. It's no wonder your sink has to be as tough and durable as it is good looking. Today’s design options provide both style and durability, making it easy to choose the right solution for your lifestyle – as long as you know what important features to consider. Blanco and Mind's Eye Sinks are the most popular sinks..
Click here for more on Blanco Sinks
Most people install new sinks when when they upgrade or remodel their kitchens and bathrooms. There are two types of sinks commonly used with quartz or granite countertops, refereed to as drop-in and under mount. Sinks may be stainless steel, composite, or a number of other materials. When choosing a sink, it is vitally important to make certain that the sink will fit in the cabinet in which it is to be mounted. Keep in mind that the cabinet must always be wider than the sink, i.e. a 30" sink will not fit in a 30" cabinet. There must also be ample room available for the faucet of your choice and any other accessories you may select. We carry a complete line of porcelain and stainless steel sinks for any application.
No doubt about it . . . the sink is the most frequently used area in your kitchen. It’s where you’re likely to be
standing at as family and friends gather in the kitchen before a meal. It’s also the gathering spot, as guests help you clear the table after a delicious feast. Washing vegetables, slicing and dicing, draining pasta, adding water to recipes, rinsing dishes, washing fine crystal, soaking pots and pans, watering plants . . . it all happens at the sink. Morning, noon, and night, from food preparation to clean-up, your sink is a hard working companion. It's exposed to hot and cold, bumps and bruises, nicks and cuts, plus a full array of enemies mounting daily attempts to leave their permanent mark (coffee, tea, wine, fruit juices, beets, etc.) The sink is also a visual focal point, sure to be noticed by all who enter your kitchen. It's no wonder your sink has to be as tough and durable as it is good looking. Today’s design options provide both style and durability, making it easy to choose the right solution for your lifestyle – as long as you know what important features to consider. Blanco and Mind's Eye Sinks are the most popular sinks..
Click here for more on Blanco Sinks
Granite Countertop Colors
Granite Countertop Colors include over a hundred colors. Below are many of them but a picture is worth a thousand words. Go to the Georgia Granite Association web site to see photos of granite slabs before you select from a few at Home Depot or Lowes.
Labrador Antique granite, Blue Eyes granite, Ault Brachia granite, Ault Macias granite, Aurora granite, Labrador Green granite, Galacticca Blue granite, Amadeus granite, American red, african red, american black, Angola Black, Angola Gold, artic blue, polar blue, aurora granite, Blue Eyes granite, Blue Bahia granite, Azul Macubas granite, Japarana Fantastico granite, Aurora granite, Labradorite Green granite, Galacticca Blue granite, azul macuba granite, azul imperia granitel, bianco romano granite, bianco sardo granite, Balmaral Red granite, Baltic Brown granite, Blue California granite, blue star granite, blue renoir granite, Bethel White granite, Bianco Sardo granite, bianco romano granite, Black Galaxy granite, Blue Eyes granite, Blue Pearl granite, Blue Bahia granite, blue caramel granite, dark mahogany granite, desert storm granite, gallio ornemental granite, gallio granite, veneziano granite, Blue eyes granite, blue pearl granite, blue star granite, emeral pearl granite, gallio florence granite, gallio nepoleon granite, gallactica blue granite, galaxy black granite, galaxy silver granite, ghibi granite, canadian mahogany granite, emerald pearl granite, golden beach granite, golden leaf granite, golden persia granite, impala granite, juparana fantastico granite, juparana bordeaux granite, kashmir gold granite, kashmir white granite, labaradorite green granite, lapidus granite, louis blue granite, maduri gold granite, monet, granite ocean green granite, rainforest brown granite, rainforest green granite, roman gold granite, golden leaf granite, golden persia granite, ice green granite, ivory fantasy granite, jage green granite, juparana classico granite, juparana dark granite, juparana mahogany granite, juparana tobacco granite, juparana renoir granite, new ventian granite, renior blue granite, roman gold granite, sahara gold granite, saphire brown granite, louis blue granite, maduri gold, granite mahogany blueeyes granite, blue eyes granite, monet granite, new brown bahia granite, new ventian gold granite, renior blue granite, roman gold, sahara gold, santa rita, st cecilia, cecilia gold, stonewood, saphire brown, shivalkashi granite, silver cloud granite, silver sea green, granite spectolite brown granite, stecilia granite, stecilia gold granite, stone wood granite, stonewood granite, tan brown granite, tropic brown granite, twister green granite, volga blue granite, warehouse granite, wildwest green granite, verde jewel granite, verde lapponia granite, verde peacock granite, volga blue granite, verde san francisco granite, violetta granite, ubatuba gold granite,verde butterfly granite, verde gape granite, verde jaco, granite verde jewel granite, verde lapponia granite, golden ray granite, golden beach granite.
Click here for granite countertop slab photos
Labrador Antique granite, Blue Eyes granite, Ault Brachia granite, Ault Macias granite, Aurora granite, Labrador Green granite, Galacticca Blue granite, Amadeus granite, American red, african red, american black, Angola Black, Angola Gold, artic blue, polar blue, aurora granite, Blue Eyes granite, Blue Bahia granite, Azul Macubas granite, Japarana Fantastico granite, Aurora granite, Labradorite Green granite, Galacticca Blue granite, azul macuba granite, azul imperia granitel, bianco romano granite, bianco sardo granite, Balmaral Red granite, Baltic Brown granite, Blue California granite, blue star granite, blue renoir granite, Bethel White granite, Bianco Sardo granite, bianco romano granite, Black Galaxy granite, Blue Eyes granite, Blue Pearl granite, Blue Bahia granite, blue caramel granite, dark mahogany granite, desert storm granite, gallio ornemental granite, gallio granite, veneziano granite, Blue eyes granite, blue pearl granite, blue star granite, emeral pearl granite, gallio florence granite, gallio nepoleon granite, gallactica blue granite, galaxy black granite, galaxy silver granite, ghibi granite, canadian mahogany granite, emerald pearl granite, golden beach granite, golden leaf granite, golden persia granite, impala granite, juparana fantastico granite, juparana bordeaux granite, kashmir gold granite, kashmir white granite, labaradorite green granite, lapidus granite, louis blue granite, maduri gold granite, monet, granite ocean green granite, rainforest brown granite, rainforest green granite, roman gold granite, golden leaf granite, golden persia granite, ice green granite, ivory fantasy granite, jage green granite, juparana classico granite, juparana dark granite, juparana mahogany granite, juparana tobacco granite, juparana renoir granite, new ventian granite, renior blue granite, roman gold granite, sahara gold granite, saphire brown granite, louis blue granite, maduri gold, granite mahogany blueeyes granite, blue eyes granite, monet granite, new brown bahia granite, new ventian gold granite, renior blue granite, roman gold, sahara gold, santa rita, st cecilia, cecilia gold, stonewood, saphire brown, shivalkashi granite, silver cloud granite, silver sea green, granite spectolite brown granite, stecilia granite, stecilia gold granite, stone wood granite, stonewood granite, tan brown granite, tropic brown granite, twister green granite, volga blue granite, warehouse granite, wildwest green granite, verde jewel granite, verde lapponia granite, verde peacock granite, volga blue granite, verde san francisco granite, violetta granite, ubatuba gold granite,verde butterfly granite, verde gape granite, verde jaco, granite verde jewel granite, verde lapponia granite, golden ray granite, golden beach granite.
Click here for granite countertop slab photos
Marble, Tavertine, Onyx
Granite is not the only beautiful stone used to upgrade homes and commercial buildings. Marble, Tavertine and Onyx are all beautiful stones that can be used to upgrade your home to millionaire status.
MARBLE
Marble has been valued for thousands of years for it’s rich palette of colors. Marble is however more porous than granite. For this reason, we highly recommend that you NOT put marble in the kitchen. Marble stones consist of limestone that has undergone heat and pressure. A transformation process takes place when the weight of overlying material, pressure from crystal collisions and heat from the earth's core generate temperatures in excess of 1800ºF. Texture of marble depends on the form, size and uniformity of grains. The element components of marble determine the color of the stone. Generally calcite and dolomite marbles are of pure white color. Variations of whiteness of pure marbles are due to the mixture of foreign substances. Such impurities form streaks and clouds. White Cabrera, Emperador Dark, Alabama White, Crema Valencia. Click here to see our marble gallery.
TRAVERTINE
Travertine is generally used for floors, walls, countertops and for outside as cladding and pavement. Travertine is generally filled with grout before it is honed or polished, which produces a uniform surface more like other stones. Unfilled travertine is also quite beautiful, and is often seen as exterior surfaces of buildings. Travertine stones result from hot spring water penetrating up through underground limestone. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind layers of dissolved limestone and other minerals, giving it its banded appearance. Travertine stones are generally light-colored beiges and tans. Colors include Nocce Vein Crosscut, and Classico Crosscut. Click here for our travertine gallery.
Onyx
Onyx was originally used to describe only black and white banded Chalcedony (Quartz), with wide and flat bands of color. Today, however, stone cover under the term of Onyx has expanded to to include many types of semi-translucent to translucent banded varieties of many different stones. This includes other types of Quartz as well as Calcite, Marble and Travertine (often called Onyx Marble) and even some Alabasters. This stone is made of glassy lime carbonate and generally is seen in crystal layers in a variety of colors including green, yellow, gray, honey and white with yellow, brown and green shadows.
See these slab photos of these stones here
MARBLE
Marble has been valued for thousands of years for it’s rich palette of colors. Marble is however more porous than granite. For this reason, we highly recommend that you NOT put marble in the kitchen. Marble stones consist of limestone that has undergone heat and pressure. A transformation process takes place when the weight of overlying material, pressure from crystal collisions and heat from the earth's core generate temperatures in excess of 1800ºF. Texture of marble depends on the form, size and uniformity of grains. The element components of marble determine the color of the stone. Generally calcite and dolomite marbles are of pure white color. Variations of whiteness of pure marbles are due to the mixture of foreign substances. Such impurities form streaks and clouds. White Cabrera, Emperador Dark, Alabama White, Crema Valencia. Click here to see our marble gallery.
TRAVERTINE
Travertine is generally used for floors, walls, countertops and for outside as cladding and pavement. Travertine is generally filled with grout before it is honed or polished, which produces a uniform surface more like other stones. Unfilled travertine is also quite beautiful, and is often seen as exterior surfaces of buildings. Travertine stones result from hot spring water penetrating up through underground limestone. When the water evaporates, it leaves behind layers of dissolved limestone and other minerals, giving it its banded appearance. Travertine stones are generally light-colored beiges and tans. Colors include Nocce Vein Crosscut, and Classico Crosscut. Click here for our travertine gallery.
Onyx
Onyx was originally used to describe only black and white banded Chalcedony (Quartz), with wide and flat bands of color. Today, however, stone cover under the term of Onyx has expanded to to include many types of semi-translucent to translucent banded varieties of many different stones. This includes other types of Quartz as well as Calcite, Marble and Travertine (often called Onyx Marble) and even some Alabasters. This stone is made of glassy lime carbonate and generally is seen in crystal layers in a variety of colors including green, yellow, gray, honey and white with yellow, brown and green shadows.
See these slab photos of these stones here
Granite Countertops And Granite Slabs
The goal at the Granite Information Page is to help you make a good decision when choosing granite countertops for your home. Granite’s rich colors, unique patterns and strength make it an ideal choice for floors, kitchen counter tops, or exterior cladding. Granite is also extremely low maintenance. Each stone has its own mineral make up that creates the colors and structure.
Granite Slabs Granite Slab Gallery
Granite slabs for granite countertops are imported from Italy and South America. The slabs are cut at the quarry into pieces that are about ten feet long, six feet wide and two inches thick. They are then imported by granite wholesalers and sold to granite countertop fabricators and installers. Thousands of slabs in hundreds of colors are imported weekly so if you know where to look, you can get superb granite slabs for a competitive price. Hundreds of colors and styles of granite slabs are available for you to select from so you can get the exact color granite countertop you want for your home.
You will not see these slabs or even pictures of them at Lowes or Home Depot, but you can see them on the internet and if you are close to a wholesaler, you can go with your installer to select the slab you want. If you are too far away, the internet is the next best thing.
SLABCO International Marble and Granite is located in Elberton, Georgia, “The Granite Capitol of the World,” and they will soon open a second location in Travelers Rest, South Carolina. They invite you to visit their facilities to select the stone for your project. The staff has a vast knowledge of the stone industry. SLABCO takes great pride in assisting each individual customer and spending as much time as necessary to find the perfect stone for your application. They can also show you slabs of granite over the internet at www.slabcomg.com where you can pick the exact slab you want using photos or via webcam teleconferencing.
The SLABCO difference is a wide variety of custom styles and customer satisfaction. SLABCO International Marble and Granite stocks many exotic stones that are sometimes difficult to find, like Labrador Antique, Blue Eyes, Ault Brachia, Ault Macias, Aurora, Labrador Green, and Galactica Blue. Insist that your builder or contractor consider SLABCO when selecting granite building materials for your home or building project.
Click Here for More Granite Countertop Information
Technistone Quartz Countertops
Technistone was developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with today’s sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind. Technistone engineered stone combines the desirable characteristics of both solid surface products such as Corian® with natural stone products such as Granite and Marble. In bringing together these qualities, Technistone eliminates the weaknesses of both.
Depending on your life style or commercial application, quartz countertops may be a better choice than granite. Read on to learn more about this superior man-made countertop material.
What is Technistone?
Technistone is made using a combination of 93% Quartz, Quartz Silica, Granite or Recycled Mirror4, combined with 7% resin, colors and binders. This mixture is pressed into 52” x 120” x 3/4” or 1 1/4” sheets using Brenton’s proprietary vibration vacuum compression process. The sheets are then heat treated, cooled, ground (calibrated) and polished to a high gloss shine. Each sheet is then individually inspected under bright lighting for any flaws or possible defects. Technistone is the finest material available for your interior hard surfacing needs.
Click Here For More Technistone Information
Depending on your life style or commercial application, quartz countertops may be a better choice than granite. Read on to learn more about this superior man-made countertop material.
What is Technistone?
Technistone is made using a combination of 93% Quartz, Quartz Silica, Granite or Recycled Mirror4, combined with 7% resin, colors and binders. This mixture is pressed into 52” x 120” x 3/4” or 1 1/4” sheets using Brenton’s proprietary vibration vacuum compression process. The sheets are then heat treated, cooled, ground (calibrated) and polished to a high gloss shine. Each sheet is then individually inspected under bright lighting for any flaws or possible defects. Technistone is the finest material available for your interior hard surfacing needs.
Click Here For More Technistone Information
Granite Countertop Care and Cleaning
Granite is a natural stone product and has a certain degree of porosity. Therefore, after installation, it must be cleaned and sealed. You can clean your countertops with only soap and water, but there are companies that specialize in granite countertop cleaning and sealing products. Stone Care International Products or Granite Gold Products makes taking care of your countertops very easy. You can buy individual cleaners and sealers, or get everything you need in our convenient “Care Kits”. The Stone Care International “Care Kits” have everything you need in one package, that includes granite countertop cleaner, sealer and polish along with easy to follow instructions. Click here for more information about sealing granite countertops.
Click here for information on Stone Care International and Granite Goldstone care products
Granite Gold granite Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Countertops and Vanities
Use a neutral, pH-balanced cleaner like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner that is specially formulated to be used on stone on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills, as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Be careful with common foods and drinks that contain acids that may etch or dull your stone’s surface. Also, some common toiletries (i.e., perfume, toothpaste, mouthwash, hairspray) contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer.
Floor Surfaces
We recommend that you frequently dust mop or sweep interior floors using a clean, non-treated, dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the potential damage from these particles. In addition, be careful when using a vacuum cleaner as the metal or plastic attachments or wheels may scratch the surface. Damp mop the stone floor with a diluted solution of a neutral cleaner designed for stone. Granite Gold Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner is ideal for this use. Be careful and keep off floor until it is completely dry, as wet stone floors may be slippery.
Bath and Other Wet Areas
Periodic use of a neutral stone cleaner will remove any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have formed. In the bath, or other wet areas, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup. Around the sink, spilled water may leave deposits. This is why it is important to use Granite Gold Sealer at least once every 12-18 months as it will protect your stone from permanent damage from these abrasive minerals. Then, simply use Granite Gold Daily Cleaner to clean on a regular basis to keep stone looking new and full of luster.
What to Do When a Spill Occurs
Accidents and spills are a fact of life, no matter how careful you are they are going to happen. A quick response and the right solutions can keep spills from damaging your stone or degrading the sealer. Always try to blot the spill and be careful not to spread it around as you wipe up the spill. Use Granite Gold Daily Cleaner as soon as you have removed the spill. And, remember to seal your stone surface at least once every 12-18 months….this will help keep spills from turning into stains.
Etch Marks
Highly acidic substances such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard, urine and many soft drinks will “etch” most marble, limestone and travertine. Sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, but it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull mark.
General household cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone are not recommended. These may etch away the polish, discolor the surface, scratch the stone or degrade the sealer. Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks and restore your natural stone’s even finish.
Food Spills
Scoop up the food with a plastic spoon. Try not to spread it around with a towel but rather blot with dry, white cloth. Spray the area with a neutral stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Dailey Cleaner and wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
Liquid Spills
Blot away the excess with a clean, dry, white cloth while turning the cloth frequently. Spray the area with a neutral stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner and wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
Mud
Let the mud stain dry completely. Remove dried mud with a soft plastic or nylon brush. Spray affected area with a neutral stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner or the Granite Gold Stone and Tile Cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. If the stain remains, contact a professional cleaner.
Oily Stains
If you identify the stain as having an oil base (from foods like salad, cooking oils, butter or some cosmetics) you may be able to remove the stain using a poultice. A poultice will wick up the stain from deep within the stone.
Click Here For More Information about Granite Cleaning Products
Click here for information on Stone Care International and Granite Goldstone care products
Granite Gold granite Maintenance and Cleaning Tips
Countertops and Vanities
Use a neutral, pH-balanced cleaner like Granite Gold Daily Cleaner that is specially formulated to be used on stone on a regular basis to remove residues from cooking oils and everyday food spills, as well as hairspray or other cosmetics. Be careful with common foods and drinks that contain acids that may etch or dull your stone’s surface. Also, some common toiletries (i.e., perfume, toothpaste, mouthwash, hairspray) contain acids and other ingredients that may damage the stone surface or degrade the sealer.
Floor Surfaces
We recommend that you frequently dust mop or sweep interior floors using a clean, non-treated, dry dust mop. Sand, dirt and grit do the most damage to natural stone surfaces due to their abrasiveness. Mats or area rugs inside and outside an entrance will help to minimize the potential damage from these particles. In addition, be careful when using a vacuum cleaner as the metal or plastic attachments or wheels may scratch the surface. Damp mop the stone floor with a diluted solution of a neutral cleaner designed for stone. Granite Gold Stone & Tile Floor Cleaner is ideal for this use. Be careful and keep off floor until it is completely dry, as wet stone floors may be slippery.
Bath and Other Wet Areas
Periodic use of a neutral stone cleaner will remove any soap scum or hard water deposits that may have formed. In the bath, or other wet areas, using a squeegee after each use can minimize soap scum and hard water deposit buildup. Around the sink, spilled water may leave deposits. This is why it is important to use Granite Gold Sealer at least once every 12-18 months as it will protect your stone from permanent damage from these abrasive minerals. Then, simply use Granite Gold Daily Cleaner to clean on a regular basis to keep stone looking new and full of luster.
What to Do When a Spill Occurs
Accidents and spills are a fact of life, no matter how careful you are they are going to happen. A quick response and the right solutions can keep spills from damaging your stone or degrading the sealer. Always try to blot the spill and be careful not to spread it around as you wipe up the spill. Use Granite Gold Daily Cleaner as soon as you have removed the spill. And, remember to seal your stone surface at least once every 12-18 months….this will help keep spills from turning into stains.
Etch Marks
Highly acidic substances such as orange juice, coffee, vinegar, wine, tomato products, mustard, urine and many soft drinks will “etch” most marble, limestone and travertine. Sealing allows you time to wipe up a spill, but it cannot stop the chemical reaction that may leave a dull mark.
General household cleaners not specifically designed for natural stone are not recommended. These may etch away the polish, discolor the surface, scratch the stone or degrade the sealer. Professional refinishing is the best way to permanently remove etch marks and restore your natural stone’s even finish.
Food Spills
Scoop up the food with a plastic spoon. Try not to spread it around with a towel but rather blot with dry, white cloth. Spray the area with a neutral stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Dailey Cleaner and wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
Liquid Spills
Blot away the excess with a clean, dry, white cloth while turning the cloth frequently. Spray the area with a neutral stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner and wipe off excess with a clean cloth.
Mud
Let the mud stain dry completely. Remove dried mud with a soft plastic or nylon brush. Spray affected area with a neutral stone cleaner such as Granite Gold Daily Cleaner or the Granite Gold Stone and Tile Cleaner. Wipe dry with a clean cloth. If the stain remains, contact a professional cleaner.
Oily Stains
If you identify the stain as having an oil base (from foods like salad, cooking oils, butter or some cosmetics) you may be able to remove the stain using a poultice. A poultice will wick up the stain from deep within the stone.
Click Here For More Information about Granite Cleaning Products
Site-Finished vs. Pre-finished Hardwood Floors
Site-Finished vs. Pre-finished Hardwood Floors
Prefinished
A pre-finish, or factory finish, creates a no muss, no fuss installation. There’s no dust from sanding, no fumes from chemicals, no waiting for the finish to dry. These floors are warranted to last longer than site-finished floors–typically 15 to 25 years, versus three to five years. This is because factory applied urethane finishes are much tougher and longer lasting than site-applied finishes.
With all the color choices available in pre-finished hardwood flooring, there’s no need to custom stain site-finished floors to get just the right look for your home. If you like the look of site-finished flooring, but want the durability of pre-finished flooring, choose a product with a square end and edge. When properly installed the square boards will have no visual crack or grove between the boards and will appear to have a more traditional site finished look.
Site-Finished
Advocates of site-finishing like the fact that the floor can be sanded after it’s installed to even out any imperfections. Site finishing also gives you the widest selection of stain colors to choose from. However, on-site sanding and finishing can produce heavy fumes, messy dust and significant waiting time from when the floor is laid until it can be enjoyed. In addition, labor costs for on-site finishing may drive up your installation costs.
The All Important Hardwood Look!
The look is what is all boils down to. Do you want the traditional elegant look of rich oak floors that stretch across the room with a smooth-as-glass finish with no visible seams or cracks? To get this look you need a professional installer to use 3/4” hardwood finished on site. Some people may tell you that you can get this look using modern pre-finished materials, but if you want the look of a grand hall, do it the old fashioned way.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a great floor that looks better than anything but a site finished floor, your choices are almost endless. You can have exotic woods, easy to install woods, woods with a rustic or distressed look, easy to clean woods. You can install some of these woods directly to concrete. They can be nailed down or glued down and are best for a do-it-yourself project. Keep in mind, choose wisely and carefully because that floor will be around for a long time.
Get More Information about Hardwood Floors Here
Prefinished
A pre-finish, or factory finish, creates a no muss, no fuss installation. There’s no dust from sanding, no fumes from chemicals, no waiting for the finish to dry. These floors are warranted to last longer than site-finished floors–typically 15 to 25 years, versus three to five years. This is because factory applied urethane finishes are much tougher and longer lasting than site-applied finishes.
With all the color choices available in pre-finished hardwood flooring, there’s no need to custom stain site-finished floors to get just the right look for your home. If you like the look of site-finished flooring, but want the durability of pre-finished flooring, choose a product with a square end and edge. When properly installed the square boards will have no visual crack or grove between the boards and will appear to have a more traditional site finished look.
Site-Finished
Advocates of site-finishing like the fact that the floor can be sanded after it’s installed to even out any imperfections. Site finishing also gives you the widest selection of stain colors to choose from. However, on-site sanding and finishing can produce heavy fumes, messy dust and significant waiting time from when the floor is laid until it can be enjoyed. In addition, labor costs for on-site finishing may drive up your installation costs.
The All Important Hardwood Look!
The look is what is all boils down to. Do you want the traditional elegant look of rich oak floors that stretch across the room with a smooth-as-glass finish with no visible seams or cracks? To get this look you need a professional installer to use 3/4” hardwood finished on site. Some people may tell you that you can get this look using modern pre-finished materials, but if you want the look of a grand hall, do it the old fashioned way.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a great floor that looks better than anything but a site finished floor, your choices are almost endless. You can have exotic woods, easy to install woods, woods with a rustic or distressed look, easy to clean woods. You can install some of these woods directly to concrete. They can be nailed down or glued down and are best for a do-it-yourself project. Keep in mind, choose wisely and carefully because that floor will be around for a long time.
Get More Information about Hardwood Floors Here
Hardwood Floors - Solid Hardwood or Engineered Hardwood?
There are two basic types of hardwood. Solid hardwood and and engineered hardwood. Solid hardwood can be purchased in 3/4” finished or unfinished boards or 5/16” finished boards. Engineered hardwood is real wood, but instead of one solid piece it consists of thin layers of wood, called plies, that are assembled and glued in a cross-ply construction.
Solid Hardwood
Solid wood is just that – one piece that is milled from lumber. It comes in a variety of widths, from 2-1/4" to 5" wide. It also comes in different thicknesses: 3/4" is standard, but you can also find “thin profile” solid that is 5/16” thick which can be glued directly to concrete floors without a sub-floor if the moisture content of the concrete is not too high. (see more about this important issue here) Unfinished hardwood boards come in different qualities. These include clear, select and better, #1 common, and #2 common. The clear has no visual blemishes or knots and is extremely expensive. The select and better quality has some small knots and very little dark grain, while the #1 common and #2 common have more knots and more dark grain. When buying an unfinished solid wood floor make sure you know which quality you are buying.
Keep In Mind:
Moisture and extreme temperature changes can cause solid wood to shrink and expand, potentially causing gaps between boards during colder or dryer seasons.
5/16" thin profile solid wood can be installed directly over concrete; 3/4" can’t.
All solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished if needed (required every 15-20 years).
All urethane coated floors can be recoated as needed to renew the surface of the floor. This is more economical than sanding and refinishing.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered wood is real wood, but instead of one solid piece it consists of three to 10 thin layers of wood, called plies, that are assembled and glued in a cross-ply construction. The top layer of wood can range from 1/16" to 1/6" thick. Overall board thickness ranges from 1/4" to 3/4". Due to its multi-ply structure, engineered wood is much more stable than solid wood and is less susceptible to shrinking and expanding with changes in temperatures and humidity.
Keep In Mind:
Engineered wood can be installed directly over concrete and can also be installed below ground level.
Engineered wood with a top layer thinner than 1/10" cannot be refinished; however, it can be recoated to renew the surface of the floor.
Get More Information about Hardwood Floors and other floors here
Solid Hardwood
Solid wood is just that – one piece that is milled from lumber. It comes in a variety of widths, from 2-1/4" to 5" wide. It also comes in different thicknesses: 3/4" is standard, but you can also find “thin profile” solid that is 5/16” thick which can be glued directly to concrete floors without a sub-floor if the moisture content of the concrete is not too high. (see more about this important issue here) Unfinished hardwood boards come in different qualities. These include clear, select and better, #1 common, and #2 common. The clear has no visual blemishes or knots and is extremely expensive. The select and better quality has some small knots and very little dark grain, while the #1 common and #2 common have more knots and more dark grain. When buying an unfinished solid wood floor make sure you know which quality you are buying.
Keep In Mind:
Moisture and extreme temperature changes can cause solid wood to shrink and expand, potentially causing gaps between boards during colder or dryer seasons.
5/16" thin profile solid wood can be installed directly over concrete; 3/4" can’t.
All solid hardwood can be sanded and refinished if needed (required every 15-20 years).
All urethane coated floors can be recoated as needed to renew the surface of the floor. This is more economical than sanding and refinishing.
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered wood is real wood, but instead of one solid piece it consists of three to 10 thin layers of wood, called plies, that are assembled and glued in a cross-ply construction. The top layer of wood can range from 1/16" to 1/6" thick. Overall board thickness ranges from 1/4" to 3/4". Due to its multi-ply structure, engineered wood is much more stable than solid wood and is less susceptible to shrinking and expanding with changes in temperatures and humidity.
Keep In Mind:
Engineered wood can be installed directly over concrete and can also be installed below ground level.
Engineered wood with a top layer thinner than 1/10" cannot be refinished; however, it can be recoated to renew the surface of the floor.
Get More Information about Hardwood Floors and other floors here
Blanton Flooring Company, Crawford, Georgia
Blanton Flooring is a full service flooring company serving Georgia and Western South Carolina. We install hardwood flooring, carpet, vinyl and ceramic tile in both residential and commercial applications.
Blanton Flooring carries top brands- Bruce, Mohawk & Shaw hardwood flooring; Alloc, Shaw & Armstrong Laminate Flooring; Armstrong & Tarkett Vinyl flooring; Marazzi, Villa Natural, Legacy ceramic tile.
Blanton Flooring has hardwood flooring, vinyl flooring, ceramic tile, laminate flooring, pre-finished hardwood, porcelain tile, residential carpet, commercial carpet, floor cleaning supplies + Free Estimates.
Blanton Flooring specializes in residential and commercial flooring for new construction or remodeling projects throughout North Georgia and Western South Carolina. Services include the sales and installation of carpet, hardwood floors, wood laminate flooring, ceramic tile floors, and vinyl sheet and tile flooring.
Blanton Flooring's goal is to treat every client’s home or office as if it were our own, providing top quality products and professional service. We make it our aim to anticipate potential problems before they arise and address the needs and concerns of our clients so that they are able to maintain a high level of confidence and a peace of mind during the process of installation. We are not interested in earning your business once...we are interested in earning your business for a lifetime.
Blanton Flooring carries the names you can trust for carpet, vinyl flooring, hardwood flooring, ceramic tile, and laminate floors. We have flooring to meet every budget, lifestyle, and commercial flooring requirement. We carry the brands you trusts, like Armstrong Flooring, Mohawk and Shaw Carpet, Bruce Hardwood Flooring, Marazzi Vinyl Tile and others. Choose from hundreds of styles, colors and types of carpet and flooring. Our ServicesBlanton Flooring services include sales and installation of commercial and residential carpet, ceramic tile, vinyl tile and resilient vinyl sheet flooring, finished and unfinished hardwood floors, and laminate floors. We have highly trained installers that will do the job right and all of our work is fully guaranteed.
Blanton Flooring installs hardwood flooring and carpet throughout North Georgia and the Atlanta Metro area including but not limited to Atlanta, Athens, Augusta, Washington, Crawford, Lexington, Elberton, Watkinsville, Guinnette, Stone Mountain, Monroe, Loganville, Snellville, Decatur, Commerce, Gainesville, Norcross, Oglethorpe County, Oconee County, Athens-Clarke County, Jackson County, Gwinnette County, Madison County, Hall County, Elbert County, Green County, Barrow County, Wilkes County, & Green County.
Stop by the showroom at 36 Arnoldsville Road, Crawford, GA or call 706-742-2424 today for a free estimate.
More Flooring Information Here
Blanton Flooring carries top brands- Bruce, Mohawk & Shaw hardwood flooring; Alloc, Shaw & Armstrong Laminate Flooring; Armstrong & Tarkett Vinyl flooring; Marazzi, Villa Natural, Legacy ceramic tile.
Blanton Flooring has hardwood flooring, vinyl flooring, ceramic tile, laminate flooring, pre-finished hardwood, porcelain tile, residential carpet, commercial carpet, floor cleaning supplies + Free Estimates.
Blanton Flooring specializes in residential and commercial flooring for new construction or remodeling projects throughout North Georgia and Western South Carolina. Services include the sales and installation of carpet, hardwood floors, wood laminate flooring, ceramic tile floors, and vinyl sheet and tile flooring.
Blanton Flooring's goal is to treat every client’s home or office as if it were our own, providing top quality products and professional service. We make it our aim to anticipate potential problems before they arise and address the needs and concerns of our clients so that they are able to maintain a high level of confidence and a peace of mind during the process of installation. We are not interested in earning your business once...we are interested in earning your business for a lifetime.
Blanton Flooring carries the names you can trust for carpet, vinyl flooring, hardwood flooring, ceramic tile, and laminate floors. We have flooring to meet every budget, lifestyle, and commercial flooring requirement. We carry the brands you trusts, like Armstrong Flooring, Mohawk and Shaw Carpet, Bruce Hardwood Flooring, Marazzi Vinyl Tile and others. Choose from hundreds of styles, colors and types of carpet and flooring. Our ServicesBlanton Flooring services include sales and installation of commercial and residential carpet, ceramic tile, vinyl tile and resilient vinyl sheet flooring, finished and unfinished hardwood floors, and laminate floors. We have highly trained installers that will do the job right and all of our work is fully guaranteed.
Blanton Flooring installs hardwood flooring and carpet throughout North Georgia and the Atlanta Metro area including but not limited to Atlanta, Athens, Augusta, Washington, Crawford, Lexington, Elberton, Watkinsville, Guinnette, Stone Mountain, Monroe, Loganville, Snellville, Decatur, Commerce, Gainesville, Norcross, Oglethorpe County, Oconee County, Athens-Clarke County, Jackson County, Gwinnette County, Madison County, Hall County, Elbert County, Green County, Barrow County, Wilkes County, & Green County.
Stop by the showroom at 36 Arnoldsville Road, Crawford, GA or call 706-742-2424 today for a free estimate.
More Flooring Information Here
Devonian Bluestone Countertops
Looking for a countertop material that is unique? Look at Devonian Blue Sandstone Countertops. Glacier Blue ™ Devonian Sandstone is a sedimentary rock formed during the Devonian Period . This striking and workable building stone evolved during 410 million years of glacial pressures and natural mountain-forming events. It's largely made up of silica with a quartzite cement, which give the material incredible strength.
This material comes from New York and Pennsylvania and most often used in pavers and sidewalk stones, but Robert Bellospirito now provides this beautiful stone for countertops. Read more about his products and company below.
Devonian Stone of New York, Inc. is a full-service stone mining and fabrication company with over 25 years of experience in the stone business. They specialize in "high-end" cut -to-size Devonian Sandstone products such as pavers, countertops, slabs and tile. This bluestone material is perfect for walkways, steps, patios, pools, kitchens, fireplaces, walls and architectural applications. Their quarry is nestled in the hills of the southern tier of New York State near the northeast Pennsylvania border. This area is noted for its richness in quality Devonian Sandstone.
The quarries contain the finest quality blue Devonian Sandstone, which is cut and shaped in various sizes and thicknesses in their 13,000 sq. ft. fabrication facility. Robert Bellospirito , President and Owner of Devonian Stone of New York, Inc. has developed innovative, proprietary machinery and techniques that have revolutionized the exploration, mining and fabrication of Devonian Sandstone. Glacier Blue™ Devonian Sandstone is the only stone currently produced using this technology which allows them to produce a bluestone product of unsurpassed quality. Devonian Stone of New York, Inc. is the pioneer of modern scientific mineral exploration for Devonian Sandstone, making us them one of the most environmentally friendly mining companies in the industry.
Devonian Bluestone Countertops are custom cut for every project per your specifications. Almost any size and configurations are possible. The following thickness' are guidelines for common applications. (please refer to your architect or contractor for what is best for you)
Vanities and countertops we prefer to use 1" – 2". Backsplashes 3/4" is recommended.
Each piece of Glacier Blue™ Devonian Sandstone is cut from solid blue rock (Devonian Sandstone). Since it is not a natural cleft stone, it is possible to control the size, tolerance and quality of Glacier Blue™ Devonian Sandstone. With the strictest quality control in the industry and cut tolerances of ± 1/8" we are sure we can provide the quality and service that you, our customer, demand. Finishes include but are not limited to: sawn, flamed, honed, high honed, polished, bush hammered, sandblasted and river washed.
Get More Counterop Information Here
This material comes from New York and Pennsylvania and most often used in pavers and sidewalk stones, but Robert Bellospirito now provides this beautiful stone for countertops. Read more about his products and company below.
Devonian Stone of New York, Inc. is a full-service stone mining and fabrication company with over 25 years of experience in the stone business. They specialize in "high-end" cut -to-size Devonian Sandstone products such as pavers, countertops, slabs and tile. This bluestone material is perfect for walkways, steps, patios, pools, kitchens, fireplaces, walls and architectural applications. Their quarry is nestled in the hills of the southern tier of New York State near the northeast Pennsylvania border. This area is noted for its richness in quality Devonian Sandstone.
The quarries contain the finest quality blue Devonian Sandstone, which is cut and shaped in various sizes and thicknesses in their 13,000 sq. ft. fabrication facility. Robert Bellospirito , President and Owner of Devonian Stone of New York, Inc. has developed innovative, proprietary machinery and techniques that have revolutionized the exploration, mining and fabrication of Devonian Sandstone. Glacier Blue™ Devonian Sandstone is the only stone currently produced using this technology which allows them to produce a bluestone product of unsurpassed quality. Devonian Stone of New York, Inc. is the pioneer of modern scientific mineral exploration for Devonian Sandstone, making us them one of the most environmentally friendly mining companies in the industry.
Devonian Bluestone Countertops are custom cut for every project per your specifications. Almost any size and configurations are possible. The following thickness' are guidelines for common applications. (please refer to your architect or contractor for what is best for you)
Vanities and countertops we prefer to use 1" – 2". Backsplashes 3/4" is recommended.
Each piece of Glacier Blue™ Devonian Sandstone is cut from solid blue rock (Devonian Sandstone). Since it is not a natural cleft stone, it is possible to control the size, tolerance and quality of Glacier Blue™ Devonian Sandstone. With the strictest quality control in the industry and cut tolerances of ± 1/8" we are sure we can provide the quality and service that you, our customer, demand. Finishes include but are not limited to: sawn, flamed, honed, high honed, polished, bush hammered, sandblasted and river washed.
Get More Counterop Information Here
Concrete Counterops
Concrete Countertops Information
I can not believe that concrete is now being used for countertops. But we are here to bring you the latest information on home improvement and here it is. Concrete countertops may be just what you are looking for.
Cast concrete countertops have become the favorite of designers and architects because concrete can give warmth and color depth not available in granite, marble or Corian. Hand finishing can give them a finish as smooth as glass with a patina that improves over the years.Concrete is an exciting alternative to the more common marble and granite surfaces. Concrete is a stone like material that has a natural warmth, it adds a richness to both modern and traditional interior environments. They are a unique expression of who you are. They also create a warm presence in any room of your home or business, and have the ability to complement any interior whether classic or modern. Get More Information Here.
I can not believe that concrete is now being used for countertops. But we are here to bring you the latest information on home improvement and here it is. Concrete countertops may be just what you are looking for.
Cast concrete countertops have become the favorite of designers and architects because concrete can give warmth and color depth not available in granite, marble or Corian. Hand finishing can give them a finish as smooth as glass with a patina that improves over the years.Concrete is an exciting alternative to the more common marble and granite surfaces. Concrete is a stone like material that has a natural warmth, it adds a richness to both modern and traditional interior environments. They are a unique expression of who you are. They also create a warm presence in any room of your home or business, and have the ability to complement any interior whether classic or modern. Get More Information Here.
Wood Countertops & Butcher Block Countertops
Consider Wood Countertops For Your Kitchen Upgrade
Butcher block countertops are a perfect melding of beauty and function. Made from hard rock maple or Appalachian red oak, these natural solid-surface tops impart a warm friendly glow to any kitchen. Gourmet cooks and chefs prefer butcher block maple for all slicing, dicing, and chopping duties. Bakers choose it for preparation and rolling dough. No other countertop surface offers the functional advantages of butcher block, and they are priced far below other solid-surface tops.
As one can readily imagine, it is extremely difficult to process the natural wood into wood countertops that provides the desired uniformity and appearance that customers prefer, but John Boos & Co. has been doing an excellent job of it for more than 100 years. The company began business in 1887 and has evolved into a leader in the food service industry and residential kitchen products. Get More information here.
Butcher block countertops are a perfect melding of beauty and function. Made from hard rock maple or Appalachian red oak, these natural solid-surface tops impart a warm friendly glow to any kitchen. Gourmet cooks and chefs prefer butcher block maple for all slicing, dicing, and chopping duties. Bakers choose it for preparation and rolling dough. No other countertop surface offers the functional advantages of butcher block, and they are priced far below other solid-surface tops.
As one can readily imagine, it is extremely difficult to process the natural wood into wood countertops that provides the desired uniformity and appearance that customers prefer, but John Boos & Co. has been doing an excellent job of it for more than 100 years. The company began business in 1887 and has evolved into a leader in the food service industry and residential kitchen products. Get More information here.
SIBU Design
If you are interested in European interior materials for furniture applications, modern ceilings, and exclusive wall covering visit www.scs-co.com, where we’d like to introduce you to SIBU Design, internationally-awarded manufacturer of special interior products for surface decoration. You will find surface finishing materials that are highly attractive, cost effective and simple to use.
Sibu has been developing their products for the past 25 years, that is why we can present you with our technologies, characterized by special tactile surface quality, a perfect visual finish and improved resistance to wear. We offer products which can help you not only create new more sophisticated and attractive world, but help you preserve a healthy environment through using clean production and environmentally compatible raw materials. Many world famous companies have already appreciated our work using SIBU materials. Among them we can name Samsung, Nokia, Burger King.
Our products have a wide selection of colors, textures and suitable for varies architectural applications. Distinctive specialty:
*Can be cut in the field with regular utility knife
*MultiStyle line can be used to achieve tight radiuses
*Available with self-adhesive and non-adhesive backing
*Easy and fast to install
*Over 100 unique stock patterns to suit any application
We provide nationwide distribution covering all 50 states.
For additional information, samples, technical tips visit our web site or call our office.
Get More Information Here
Sibu has been developing their products for the past 25 years, that is why we can present you with our technologies, characterized by special tactile surface quality, a perfect visual finish and improved resistance to wear. We offer products which can help you not only create new more sophisticated and attractive world, but help you preserve a healthy environment through using clean production and environmentally compatible raw materials. Many world famous companies have already appreciated our work using SIBU materials. Among them we can name Samsung, Nokia, Burger King.
Our products have a wide selection of colors, textures and suitable for varies architectural applications. Distinctive specialty:
*Can be cut in the field with regular utility knife
*MultiStyle line can be used to achieve tight radiuses
*Available with self-adhesive and non-adhesive backing
*Easy and fast to install
*Over 100 unique stock patterns to suit any application
We provide nationwide distribution covering all 50 states.
For additional information, samples, technical tips visit our web site or call our office.
Get More Information Here
Granite Countertop Sealing
Granite Countertop Sealing
Sealing granite countertops is not difficult and you can do it yourself. To seal granite countertops, follow these steps. Apply the sealer to your countertop using a clean white rag or brush. Let the sealer absorb into the stone for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. When the sealer is almost dry, apply a little more sealer on your granite and then rub it in with a dry, clean rag. Repeat on the next section of stone until your entire granite countertop is sealed. Wait at least two hours before a second application. The wait time depends on your specific brand of sealer. It's best to work in a small area, 4 to 5 square feet. If your granite needs to be sealed, at least 2 coats of sealer is recommended. To find out if your stone is sufficiently sealed, put a couple of drops of water on your countertop, wait for about 1/2 hour, then wipe it up. If the granite does not spot, your countertop is sufficiently sealed.
Not all granite needs to be sealed. Before sealing, place several drops of water on the surface of the stone and see how long it takes for the water to completely disappear. If the water absorbs into the stone under 3-4 minutes, it may need sealing.
Sealing granite and natural stone with penetrating sealers, (also called impregnators), protects the structure of a natural stone. They protect the stone from within. When sealing natural stone or granite with this type of sealer, it is applied directly to the face of the stone with a soft cloth. It's simple to do and does not require a stone specialist. This type of sealer is recommended for sealing granite.
The sealer will penetrate below the stone's surface without leaving a coating or film on top. The stone below the surface will be protected, however, there is no surface protection. This means calcareous natural stones such as marble, onyx, limestone, and travertine can still etch or dull if acidic products such as orange juice or coke are left on your stone.
To help provide surface protection, a natural vegetable soap cleanser or a cleanser made specifically for natural stone can be used. These cleansers build up a thin film layer between periodic deep cleanings. Natural vegetable soaps and stone cleaners remove dirt and debris from the stone's surface the same as a detergent soap does. They are just milder.
Penetrating sealers are either solvent based or water based.
Solvent based penetrating sealers have a higher durability because they are able to penetrate deeper within the stone. Water based, on the other hand, cannot penetrate any deeper into the stone than it will absorb.
In the denser stones, a water based sealer will not penetrate as deeply and leave the protection just below the surface. This means there is less protection of the stone over longer periods of time. Stones with a high rate of absorption will take the protective sealers deeper into the stone. A water based penetrating sealer works well with very porous natural stones.
The most common protection materials used in penetrating sealers are silicone, siloxane, and fluoropolymers. These materials are unaffected by outside elements and only damaged by temperature ranges of 900F to 1200F or exposure to strong caustic solutions. Sealers with silicone, silane, and siloxane work well to repel water born stains. This type of impregnator will repel water based liquids such as coffee and tea.
Fluoropolymers are generally water based sealers and have oil repellent characteristics. They will repel oil based liquids such as grease and cooking oil.
If you are sealing granite or natural stone kitchen counters, look for an oil repellant impregnator. An oil resistant impregnator will only slow the absorption of oil while an oil repellant impregnator will keep the oil from entering the stone. All of them work well to protect stone. Some repel water better and others oil.
Click here for more information and sealing products
Sealing granite countertops is not difficult and you can do it yourself. To seal granite countertops, follow these steps. Apply the sealer to your countertop using a clean white rag or brush. Let the sealer absorb into the stone for approximately 3 to 4 minutes. When the sealer is almost dry, apply a little more sealer on your granite and then rub it in with a dry, clean rag. Repeat on the next section of stone until your entire granite countertop is sealed. Wait at least two hours before a second application. The wait time depends on your specific brand of sealer. It's best to work in a small area, 4 to 5 square feet. If your granite needs to be sealed, at least 2 coats of sealer is recommended. To find out if your stone is sufficiently sealed, put a couple of drops of water on your countertop, wait for about 1/2 hour, then wipe it up. If the granite does not spot, your countertop is sufficiently sealed.
Not all granite needs to be sealed. Before sealing, place several drops of water on the surface of the stone and see how long it takes for the water to completely disappear. If the water absorbs into the stone under 3-4 minutes, it may need sealing.
Sealing granite and natural stone with penetrating sealers, (also called impregnators), protects the structure of a natural stone. They protect the stone from within. When sealing natural stone or granite with this type of sealer, it is applied directly to the face of the stone with a soft cloth. It's simple to do and does not require a stone specialist. This type of sealer is recommended for sealing granite.
The sealer will penetrate below the stone's surface without leaving a coating or film on top. The stone below the surface will be protected, however, there is no surface protection. This means calcareous natural stones such as marble, onyx, limestone, and travertine can still etch or dull if acidic products such as orange juice or coke are left on your stone.
To help provide surface protection, a natural vegetable soap cleanser or a cleanser made specifically for natural stone can be used. These cleansers build up a thin film layer between periodic deep cleanings. Natural vegetable soaps and stone cleaners remove dirt and debris from the stone's surface the same as a detergent soap does. They are just milder.
Penetrating sealers are either solvent based or water based.
Solvent based penetrating sealers have a higher durability because they are able to penetrate deeper within the stone. Water based, on the other hand, cannot penetrate any deeper into the stone than it will absorb.
In the denser stones, a water based sealer will not penetrate as deeply and leave the protection just below the surface. This means there is less protection of the stone over longer periods of time. Stones with a high rate of absorption will take the protective sealers deeper into the stone. A water based penetrating sealer works well with very porous natural stones.
The most common protection materials used in penetrating sealers are silicone, siloxane, and fluoropolymers. These materials are unaffected by outside elements and only damaged by temperature ranges of 900F to 1200F or exposure to strong caustic solutions. Sealers with silicone, silane, and siloxane work well to repel water born stains. This type of impregnator will repel water based liquids such as coffee and tea.
Fluoropolymers are generally water based sealers and have oil repellent characteristics. They will repel oil based liquids such as grease and cooking oil.
If you are sealing granite or natural stone kitchen counters, look for an oil repellant impregnator. An oil resistant impregnator will only slow the absorption of oil while an oil repellant impregnator will keep the oil from entering the stone. All of them work well to protect stone. Some repel water better and others oil.
Click here for more information and sealing products
Granite Countertop Installation
Granite Countertops installation and fabrication costs can significantly affect the final price of your new granite countertops. Generally, the more complex the shape of the countertop and particularly the shape of the finished countertop edges, the higher the price will be. Fortunately, a single thickness plain polished edge makes an excellent appearance and most customers choose this standard. Occasionally, a customer will want a custom granite countertop edge pattern, possibly to match the edge to detailing on the cabinetry, and this can also be done. But keep in mind that if the granite fabricator has to buy custom cutting bits, he will add their cost to the price. Granite countertops are usually polished to a high gloss finish. Granite countertop installers may sell finished pieces, but granite slabs are always sold intact. The price of the granite countertop includes the cost of transportation, making field measurements and templates, cutting, polishing, delivery, and final installation. The total material required is determined by the layout and the amount of waste. The fabricator will try to lay out each job so as to minimize waste yet maximize the natural beauty of the veining and pattern.
Click her for more information
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Corian Countertops
Corian Countertops: "Corian Countertops By Dupont
Corian Countertops
With over 100 colors to choose from, DuPont Corian allows you to create a space as individual as you are with inlays, seamless back splashes, and inline sinks. Because Corian is nonporous, it wipes clean and stains can't penetrate the surface. Neither can mold, mildew, or bacteria. Corian also resists burns and scratches.
Corian products such as sinks and back splashes can be perfectly integrated to create the illusion of a single, solid surface, with no cracks to collect dirt and moisture. DuPont invented solid surfaces more than 35 years ago, so we've had time to get things right. As a result, Corian� has consistently attained a customer satisfaction rating of 96%.
Exceptional Warranty
Every countertop from DuPont is covered by a limited-warranty for product, craftsmanship and installation, and backed by a network of fast-response DuPont Authorized Service Agents."
Click Here For More Countertop Information
Corian Countertops
With over 100 colors to choose from, DuPont Corian allows you to create a space as individual as you are with inlays, seamless back splashes, and inline sinks. Because Corian is nonporous, it wipes clean and stains can't penetrate the surface. Neither can mold, mildew, or bacteria. Corian also resists burns and scratches.
Corian products such as sinks and back splashes can be perfectly integrated to create the illusion of a single, solid surface, with no cracks to collect dirt and moisture. DuPont invented solid surfaces more than 35 years ago, so we've had time to get things right. As a result, Corian� has consistently attained a customer satisfaction rating of 96%.
Exceptional Warranty
Every countertop from DuPont is covered by a limited-warranty for product, craftsmanship and installation, and backed by a network of fast-response DuPont Authorized Service Agents."
Click Here For More Countertop Information
Quartz Countertops
Quartz Countetops:
"Zodiaq, Cambria, Silestone & CaesarStone, Legacy
The process to convert quartz to a slab/countertop was patented by Breton, an Italian company, and is used by all companies which manufacture engineered stone. This manufacturing process uses raw quartz crystals ranging in size from coarse grains to the size of rock salt. Once the quartz is ground and selected, the crystals are combined with bonding agents (resin) and color, then heated and vibro-compacted to form an impenetrable surface. The resulting slabs are a matrix of 93% quartz and 7% resin binders and pigments ... free of fissures and cracks, and impervious to water, moisture, or bacteria. Industry wide, all quartz countertops are made with 93 percent quartz or they cannot claim the hardness, durability, or impermeability of a true quartz surface. The prescribed mixture results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and more than twice as strong as granite and less likely to break during fabrication.
Popular name brands for quartz countertops are listed below ;
DuPont Zodiaq is 93% pure quartz crystal, which gives Zodiaq a natural depth and radiance without the imperfections common in unimproved stone. more here
Cambria's natural stone surfaces are perfect for kitchen countertops because Cambria is stronger than granite and, unlike granite, Cambria is non-porous, making it one of the safest surfaces for food preparation available. more here
Silestone leads its category in innovative ideas for a product that already is known for its ingenious physical properties and customer benefits. Silestone offers the most colors in natural quartz; the most innovative sink installation methods, and a 10 warranty. more here
CaesarStone offers numerous advantages over natural stone. Stronger, more durable, cleaner, safer, and more consistent — it's the "Six-Million-Dollar-Man" of stone surfaces. In addition to its superior performance, CaesarStone has greater consistency than natural stone which is veined and prone to flaws. more here
Legacy is at home as a high performance countertop in your dream kitchen, as a magnificent tub or shower surround, in the master bedroom, bath or as a stunning family room floor that can take all that a typical family can deliver over many years of active living. more here
Technistone was developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with today's sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind. more here
"Zodiaq, Cambria, Silestone & CaesarStone, Legacy
The process to convert quartz to a slab/countertop was patented by Breton, an Italian company, and is used by all companies which manufacture engineered stone. This manufacturing process uses raw quartz crystals ranging in size from coarse grains to the size of rock salt. Once the quartz is ground and selected, the crystals are combined with bonding agents (resin) and color, then heated and vibro-compacted to form an impenetrable surface. The resulting slabs are a matrix of 93% quartz and 7% resin binders and pigments ... free of fissures and cracks, and impervious to water, moisture, or bacteria. Industry wide, all quartz countertops are made with 93 percent quartz or they cannot claim the hardness, durability, or impermeability of a true quartz surface. The prescribed mixture results in a product that is non-porous, exceedingly durable, and more than twice as strong as granite and less likely to break during fabrication.
Popular name brands for quartz countertops are listed below ;
DuPont Zodiaq is 93% pure quartz crystal, which gives Zodiaq a natural depth and radiance without the imperfections common in unimproved stone. more here
Cambria's natural stone surfaces are perfect for kitchen countertops because Cambria is stronger than granite and, unlike granite, Cambria is non-porous, making it one of the safest surfaces for food preparation available. more here
Silestone leads its category in innovative ideas for a product that already is known for its ingenious physical properties and customer benefits. Silestone offers the most colors in natural quartz; the most innovative sink installation methods, and a 10 warranty. more here
CaesarStone offers numerous advantages over natural stone. Stronger, more durable, cleaner, safer, and more consistent — it's the "Six-Million-Dollar-Man" of stone surfaces. In addition to its superior performance, CaesarStone has greater consistency than natural stone which is veined and prone to flaws. more here
Legacy is at home as a high performance countertop in your dream kitchen, as a magnificent tub or shower surround, in the master bedroom, bath or as a stunning family room floor that can take all that a typical family can deliver over many years of active living. more here
Technistone was developed specifically for the Kitchen and Bath industry with today's sophisticated homeowners desires and needs in mind. more here
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