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	<title>DirectBuy Kitchen Remodeling Blog &#187; Kitchen Countertops</title>
	<atom:link href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/category/kitchen-countertops/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
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		<title>Beautiful Kitchen Countertops from Recycled Glass</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/kitchen-countertops-from-recycled-glass/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/kitchen-countertops-from-recycled-glass/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 03:25:11 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eco-Friendly Counter tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Update]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recycled Glass Countertops]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1133</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Kitchen remodeling  projects involving the replacement of existing countertops can truly transform a kitchen.  If you are looking to replace your existing counterto p with something environmentally friendly, take a look at what’s on the market in recycled glass.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="Kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank"><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1135" title="recycled glass kitchen counter" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/child-cooking.jpg" alt="recycled glass kitchen counter" width="249" height="373" />Kitchen remodeling</a> projects involving the replacement of existing countertops can truly transform a kitchen.  If you are looking to replace your existing <a title="countertop" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertop</a> with something environmentally friendly, take a look at what’s on the market in recycled glass.</p>
<h3>Go Green, Go Eco-Friendly, Go Glass!</h3>
<p>Many manufacturers of recycled glass countertops have passed the rigorous testing required to have their materials classified as eco friendly.  Utilizing recycled glass helps minimize air and water pollution as well as reduce the millions of tons of glass which finds its way to our landfills.</p>
<h3>Wide Range of Colors and Styles in Recycled Counter Tops</h3>
<p><a title="Countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">Countertops</a> produced from recycled glass come in a variety of colors and are heat, stain, and scratch resistant.  Many of these tops are chemically benign and safer in the home than many other types of countertops.  Recycled glass is also appropriate for use as backsplashes and flooring.  Consider recycled glass for your kitchen remodeling project and any of these applications.  It will be good for the environment and beautiful in your home.</p>
<p>Whatever you need for your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> project, you can find a great selection of name-brand <a title="wholesale kitchen design products" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/designs.aspx" target="_blank">wholesale kitchen design products</a> at great savings of up to 50% off retail at <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> .</p>
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		<title>Environmentally Friendly Kitchen Countertops</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/environmentally-friendly-kitchen-countertops/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/environmentally-friendly-kitchen-countertops/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:02:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Eco-Friendly Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Green Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Laminate]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Stainless Steel]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1033</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The kitchen remodeling industry is taking note of the whole “Going “Green” trend and making more home owners aware of environmentally friendly options to remodel their kitchens.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1035" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="tile counter tops" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/tile-counter-tops.jpg" alt="tile counter tops" width="249" height="332" />The kitchen remodeling industry is taking note of the whole “Going “Green” trend and making more home owners aware of environmentally friendly options to remodel their kitchens. Kitchen countertops have probably the most eco-friendly material options out of all the other kitchen components. Popular “green” choices include the following:</p>
<p><strong>Laminate </strong>– eco-friendly laminate means non-toxic glue was used to adhere a recycled plastic sheet to a formaldehyde-free substrate. Laminate is the most economical out of all kitchen countertops so it may be a more budget-friendly way to go green in your kitchen.</p>
<p><strong>Stainless Steel </strong>– stainless steel counters are normally found in commercial kitchens but now they are becoming more popular in homes. Durable and easy to clean, they can contain high recycled content and can be recycled for another counter remodeling project.</p>
<p><strong>Ceramic and Porcelain Tiles </strong>– made from clay, ceramic and porcelain tile is durable and can contain highly recycled content. You can also avoid waste because you are reusing existing materials.</p>
<p>For all your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/ " target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> needs, discover the savings, service and selection at <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/ " target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> . You’ll find brand-name products at prices up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Revitalize Your Kitchen with New Countertops</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/revitalize-with-countertops/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/revitalize-with-countertops/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 30 Sep 2009 15:19:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Certamic Tile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Engineered Stone]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Granite]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Granite Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Marble]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=935</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Replacing your existing kitchen countertop is a great starting place for a remodeling project.  Select any of the beautiful stones at your disposal to revitalize your kitchen today. The important thing is to select a countertop material of high quality to ensure it will last for years to come.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-942" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="countertop-group-1" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/countertop-group-1-300x191.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="191" />Refreshing and <a title="revitalizing your kitchen" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">revitalizing your kitchen</a> doesn’t mean you have to gut the entire room and start from scratch.  Certain elements in the kitchen can be remodeled to give you an entirely new look and feel.  One of the more noticeable parts of the kitchen is the <a title="countertop" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertop</a> and you can install a new top for a fresh new look.</p>
<p><strong>Popular Kitchen Counter Top Materials Include:</strong></p>
<p>1.    <strong>Granite</strong>- long the industry standard for kitchen counter tops, granite gives a sense of elegance to your kitchen.  Granite is heat and stain resistant and comes in thousands of colors.  The more exotic the granite, the higher the price tag but there are many beautiful types of granite available to fit any budget.</p>
<p>2.  <strong> Engineered Stone</strong> – the primary component is quartz which is very durable.  This type of material is available in a wide range of components and is heat and scratch resistant.</p>
<p>3.  <strong> Ceramic Tile</strong> – very easy to clean and available in hundreds of colors and designs.  One item to note when using ceramic tile pieces for your countertop is the addition of grout joints.  Make sure they are sealed as well to minimize staining.</p>
<p>4.    <strong>Marble</strong> – exotic and classic, marble can make a stunning design element in your kitchen.  It is softer than other stones so you should make sure it is sealed appropriately to prevent staining.  If you are apprehensive in using marble for you main countertop, consider using it as the top for your kitchen island.</p>
<p><strong>Choose High Quality Counter Tops</strong></p>
<p>Replacing your existing <a title="kitchen countertop" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen countertop</a> is a great starting place for a remodeling project.  Select any of the beautiful stones at your disposal to revitalize your kitchen today. The important thing is to select a countertop material of high quality to ensure it will last for years to come.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of kitchen counter tops and other <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> products at savings up to 50% off retail. With savings like this,  you can choose top quality to create the kitchen you&#8217;ve always wanted.</p>
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		<title>Counter Tops &#8211; Choose Your Edging Style</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/counter-top-edging/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/counter-top-edging/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 23 Sep 2009 17:14:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bevel]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Counter Top Edging]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Demi BUllnose]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Flat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Full Bullnose]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Granite Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Half]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ogee]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Kitchen Countertops]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=916</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Many homeowners opt for granite countertops when remodeling their kitchens and most believe there are only two types, square and round.  There are many types of edging profiles available and you should have a look at all of them to ensure you select one which suits your taste. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-924" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="countertop-group-3" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/countertop-group-3-300x191.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="191" /><a title="Kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">Kitchen remodeling</a> projects often include installing new countertops.  Many homeowners might not consider or don’t know about the different types of edging available for countertops.</p>
<p><strong>Counter Top Edge Options Are More Diverse Than Round or Square</strong></p>
<p>Many homeowners opt for <a title="granite countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">granite countertops</a> when remodeling their kitchens and most believe there are only two types, square and round.  There are many types of edging profiles available and you should have a look at all of them to ensure you select one which suits your taste.</p>
<p><strong>Different Types of Counter Top Edges:<br />
</strong></p>
<p>1.    <strong>Flat</strong> – most common standard edge with a flat face profile<br />
2.    <strong>Half or demi bullnose</strong> – the front edge is rounded to the bottom<br />
3.    <strong>Full bullnose</strong> – the edging is rounded from the top all the way underneath the face<br />
4.    <strong>Bevel</strong> – the edge angles down from the top to the bottom edge<br />
5.    <strong>Ogee</strong> – the edge takes a concave curve to the middle of the front edge and then rounds back out to the bottom edge</p>
<p><strong>Choose the Edging Style That Will Give Your Kitchen Design the Most Style</strong></p>
<p>These are just a few of the edging profiles available for your new <a title="kitchen countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen countertops</a>.  Choose one that fits your taste and adds style to your kitchen.</p>
<p>Whatever your taste and style demands, you will find a wide selection of <a title="Kitchen Remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">Kitchen Remodeling</a> products at <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> that will provide quality and savings &#8211; up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>The New Trend in Kitchen Counter Tops &#8211; Recycled Materials</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/counter-tops-reccycled-materials/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/counter-tops-reccycled-materials/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:37:21 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Kitchen Countertops]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=796</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Manufacturers of recycled countertops combine glass and resin with plastics, dinnerware, paper, etc. to produce one-of-a-kind products.  No two countertops will be the exactly same when produced through a recycling method. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Most everyone has a stack of recycling bins out in the garage.  Do you ever wonder what ever becomes of all those milk jugs, empty bottles, and broken down boxes?  Well, one product derived from plastics and glass is countertops.  Kitchen countertops made of recycled products are both beautiful and unique.</p>
<p>Manufacturers of recycled countertops combine glass and resin with plastics, dinnerware, paper, etc. to produce one-of-a-kind products.  No two countertops will be the exactly same when produced through a recycling method.</p>
<p>As you look at countertop options for your kitchen remodeling, consider a unique recycled product.  It will be a testament to what can be produced from all those filled recycle bins sitting in your garage.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy " href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy </a>offers a wide array of <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> products &#8211; <a title="counter tops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter tops</a>, <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a>, <a title="furniture" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/furniture.aspx" target="_blank">furniture</a> and more &#8211; all at manufacturer-direct wholesale prices. Save up to 50% off retail prices.</p>
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		<title>Corain for Your Kitchen Remodeling</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/corain-for-kitchen-remodel/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/corain-for-kitchen-remodel/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:07:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Counter tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=771</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Kitchen countertops take a lot of wear and tear.  It is important for you to decide during the design phase of your remodeling project which type of material will work best for your lifestyle.  Corain is non porous, which means it is highly resistant to staining. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the first thoughts during a kitchen remodeling project falls along the lines of what type of kitchen countertop is desired.  Fast growing among countertops for kitchen applications is corian.  Corian is a manmade product and over the years has developed into one of the most chosen materials for countertops for kitchen remodeling projects.</p>
<p><a title="Kitchen countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">Kitchen countertops</a> take a lot of wear and tear.  It is important for you to decide during the design phase of your remodeling project which type of material will work best for your lifestyle.  Corain is non porous, which means it is highly resistant to staining.  It mimics the look of granite and stone and you can even get matching corian hardware.  No matter what design you have in mind for your remodeling project, corian will surely be a beautiful addition.</p>
<p>For everything you need to make your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> a success, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> offers a wide range of products at manufacturer-direct wholesale prices that can save up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Countertop Edges Make a Difference</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/countertop-edges-make-a-difference/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/countertop-edges-make-a-difference/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 02 Jul 2009 21:23:14 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling Products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wholesale Counter Tops]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=764</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Edging is very important to give your counter top the overall look you want. There are straight edges, beveled edges and rounded edges. There are decorative edges as well that will give your countertops a completely different look than plain edges.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Counter tops are a major part of your kitchen design. There are so many options today to give your kitchen the look and functionality you want in your home. Great choices available for counter tops include granite and many other types of natural stone. Most people would think making your selection of color and material would be all you have to do. But an often overlooked item is the edging of your countertops.</p>
<p>Yes, edging is very important to give your counter top the overall look you want. There are straight edges, beveled edges and rounded edges. There are decorative edges as well that will give your countertops a completely different look than plain edges. So when you’re choosing your counter top material, remember to decide on what kind of edges you want for your new kitchen design.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a wide selection of <a title="kitchen remodeling products" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling products</a> to give your kitchen the style and functionality you want. You can find quality materials for <a title="counter tops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter tops</a>, <a title="flooring " href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring </a>and more &#8211; all at great savings of up to 50% off retail prices.</p>
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		<title>Kitchen Counter Tops &#8211; Granite or Quartz?</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/granite-or-quartz/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/granite-or-quartz/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2009 20:04:38 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=599</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Two great options for counter tops are granite and quartz. Of course, most people are familiar with granite counter tops which have grown in popularity tremendously over the years, but quartz has also become a very popular choice.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-601" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="counter-top-6" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/05/counter-top-6.jpg" alt="" width="207" height="135" />Need new kitchen countertops to give your kitchen real style? Two great options are granite and quartz. Of course, most people are familiar with granite counter tops which have grown in popularity tremendously over the years.</p>
<p>With granite you have many, many options in color and pattern to fit into whatever color scheme you have in mind for your kitchen design. Granite is a very durable, beautiful choice for counter tops.</p>
<p>Quartz is not quite as well-known as granite, but it is surely gaining its place among favored counter top material, and rightly so. It too is a beautiful material and is just as durable and easy to maintain as granite. You’ll find many options when choosing quartz counter tops too.</p>
<p>Whatever your choice for new counter tops, you’ll find a great selection of various types of countertops at <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a>. You can save up to 50% on <a title="counter tops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter tops</a> and most everything else you need for <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a>.</p>
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		<title>Discover Quartz Tiles and Countertops</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/quartz-tiles-and-countertops/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/quartz-tiles-and-countertops/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2009 15:35:00 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=529</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the major advantages of using quartz in your home is that maintaining it is almost as easy as taking care of your pet rock! The surface of quartz tiles and countertops is so solid and nonporous that you never have to apply sealer.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>No matter how much you clean, is your kitchen still lacking that extra bit of pizazz, that sparkle? Don’t fret, because if it’s sparkle you’re looking for, you’re sure to find it by using quartz tiles or <a title="counter tops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter tops</a> in your kitchen.</p>
<p>Yes, quartz, those same pretty rocks you studied in your ninth-grade earth-science class. Turns out, these rocks have more uses than you may have imagined back then. As the most abundant mineral on the planet after water, quartz can be found all over the world. And now quartz is moving inside, too, as homeowners discover this rock’s natural appeal in tiles and countertops from Direct Buy.</p>
<p>Still not sure if quartz is for you? Read on for more about this mineral’s mysterious magic.</p>
<p>Because quartz grows in clusters, not in blocks like granite, it can’t be used in its natural state for tiles or countertops. Each company that manufactures true quartz countertops (meaning that they are made with 93% or more actual quartz) uses the same patented process.</p>
<p>It involves grinding the crystals, then packing them into molds with resin and pigments. The process sounds complicated, but it’s because of this method that the surface won’t crack or let in water or bacteria.<br />
Maintenance is a Breeze with Quartz</p>
<p>One of the major advantages of using quartz in your home is that maintaining it is almost as easy as taking care of your pet rock! The surface of quartz tiles and countertops is so solid and nonporous that you never have to apply sealer.</p>
<p>They’re also virtually impossible to stain – just clean up spills and debris with a white non-abrasive scrubber or an all-purpose household cleaner. Also, the durable surface will provide a high-gloss shine for years to come.</p>
<p>Under normal cooking conditions, quartz surfaces are heat- and scorch-resistant, but you may want to play it safe by using a trivet for extreme heat exposure.</p>
<p>In recent years, granite <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a> have become a must-have in modern, upscale kitchens. But homeowners in the know have begun to discover that quartz tiles and countertops offer the same benefits as granite – and even outperforms it in some aspects!</p>
<p>Quick points to consider:</p>
<p>* Quartz is actually stronger than granite. (But remember, this means quartz is heavier, too!)<br />
* In terms of cutting and installing slabs, quartz is easier to handle and not as likely to break or crack.<br />
* Within a slab, quartz is more likely to have uniform color and pattern than granite, which can vary.<br />
* Granite requires sealing (and subsequent resealing later), but quartz does not.<br />
* Quartz is highly resistant to scratches and stains.</p>
<p>Now that you’ve met this magnificent mineral, it’s time to select the perfect tiles or countertops for your home. So quash those qualms about quartz, and give your kitchen the natural sparkle only Mother Earth can provide.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> carries an extensive selection of <a title="tile" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">tile</a> for countertops and other applications throughout your home &#8211; all at savings up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Granite Counter Top Maintenance</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/granite-counter-top-maintenance/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/granite-counter-top-maintenance/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 30 Mar 2009 17:20:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Granite Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=503</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the most alluring characteristics of choosing a granite counter top is granite’s reputation for easy maintenance. Because granite is such a hard material, it is difficult to scratch or stain. However, sometimes it can happen. Here's what to do.
]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-512" style="margin-left: 8px; margin-right: 8px;" title="granite" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/03/granite.jpg" alt="" width="194" height="173" />One of the most alluring characteristics of choosing a granite counter top is granite’s reputation for easy maintenance. Because granite is such a hard material, it is difficult to scratch or stain. However, sometimes it can happen.</p>
<p>If you scratch your granite counter top, purchase very fine steel wool (“000” or finer) and try buffing out the scratch. Be sure you are careful not to do further damage to your counter top. With careful buffing you can reduce the appearance of scratches, though you will not actually remove them.</p>
<p>For normal maintenance, warm soapy water and a soft cloth will do the job. Vinegar and warm water also makes an easy-to-use solution for a thorough cleaning. White vinegar and water removes stains and odors on your countertop.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> carries a wide selection of <a title="counter tops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter tops</a> in granite and many other beautiful materials – all at manufacturer-direct wholesale prices.</p>
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