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	<title>DirectBuy Kitchen Remodeling Blog &#187; Kitchen Counter Tops</title>
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		<title>Engineered Stone Kitchen Countertops</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/engineered-stone-kitchen-countertops/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/engineered-stone-kitchen-countertops/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 15 Jul 2010 18:51:31 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Engineered Stone Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Quartz]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1897</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Engineered stone has grown in popularity in the last few years both in residential and commercial applications.  There are a couple of main reasons for this.  The first is engineered stone has tested to be stronger than granite.  Another reason is it is much easier to clean and maintain than many natural stones.  If you are remodeling your kitchen, take a look at the advantages to install engineered stone as your countertop  surface.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/silestone-quartz.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1899" title="silestone quartz" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/silestone-quartz-201x300.jpg" alt="Engineered counter tops are awesome." width="201" height="300" /></a>Engineered stone has grown in popularity in the last few years both in residential and commercial applications.  There are a couple of main reasons for this.  The first is engineered stone has tested to be stronger than granite.  Another reason is it is much easier to clean and maintain than many natural stones.  If you are remodeling your kitchen, take a look at the advantages to install engineered stone as your <a title="countertop" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertop</a> surface.</p>
<h3>Many Colors Available</h3>
<p>Engineered stone might be referred to by other names such as quartz.  There are several types available and the color range has dramatically increased over the last few years. There is little doubt you will be able to find a color that makes a beautiful countertop application.  Engineered stone can be expensive, but it is within the range of most granite as well.  Find the perfect color and add engineered stone as your choice of countertop materials for your newly designed kitchen.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a great selection of <a title="kitchen furniture" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/furniture.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen furniture</a> and other <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> products. You can purchase most everything you need for a fabulous kitchen design – <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> , <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a> , <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a> , <a title="kitchen cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/" target="_blank">kitchen cabinets</a> and more – all at savings of up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Keeping Your Granite Countertops in Good Shape</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/granite-countertops-in-good-shape/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/granite-countertops-in-good-shape/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 17 Jun 2010 20:29:55 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Granite Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1801</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Granite  is the most popular choice for kitchen countertop material.  If you’ve installed granite in your kitchen, take the necessary maintenance steps to keep it beautiful and protected.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a title="Granite" href="http://www.discounttiledirect.com/granite-tile.aspx" target="_blank"></a><a href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/cleaning-granite-counter.jpg"><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-1802" title="cleaning granite counter" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/cleaning-granite-counter-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" /></a>Granite is the most popular choice for kitchen countertop material.  If you’ve installed granite in your kitchen, take the necessary maintenance steps to keep it beautiful and protected.</p>
<h3>Helpful Tips for Maintaining a Granite Kitchen Countertop</h3>
<p>Many countertop surfaces are sealed after installation.  Your stone fabricator should be able to tell you if it was sealed, and if so, what type of sealer was used.  Impregnating sealers penetrate the surface to provide an additional level of protection.</p>
<p>It is important to immediately wipe up any spills on the counter and not allow acidic liquids to remain on the surface.  Use only cleaners or soaps approved for use on granite.  You might periodically need to re-polish or reseal the countertop, but maintaining your countertop on a daily basis will ensure lasting beauty for years to come.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a great selection of <a title="kitchen furniture" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/furniture.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen furniture</a> and other <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> products. You can purchase most everything you need for a fabulous kitchen design – <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> , <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a> , <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a> , <a title="kitchen cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/" target="_blank">kitchen cabinets</a> and more – all at savings of up to 50% off retail.</p>
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		<title>Recycled Countertops – A Hot Kitchen Design Trend</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/hot-kitchen-design-trend/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/hot-kitchen-design-trend/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Jun 2010 18:53:55 +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 Designs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Recycled Countertops]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1785</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Recycle More Than Your Kitchen Plastic and Aluminum Waste. You can extend your recycling efforts to more than tossing those empty coke cans in the recycling bin.  Kitchen countertops made from recycled materials is a hot trend in new kitchen designs  and kitchen remodeling .]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Recycled-Materials-Counter-Top.jpg"><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-1786" title="Recycled Materials Counter Top" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/06/Recycled-Materials-Counter-Top-300x225.jpg" alt="" width="300" height="225" /></a>Recycle More Than Your Kitchen Plastic and Aluminum Waste. You can extend your recycling efforts to more than tossing those empty coke cans in the recycling bin.  Kitchen countertops made from recycled materials is a hot trend in new <a title="kitchen designs" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/designs.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen designs</a> and <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> .</p>
<h3>Common Materials Make Up Recycled Countertop Components</h3>
<p>There are many common materials used to manufacture stunning <a title="kitchen counter tops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen counter tops</a> .  Glass is the most common material found in recycled countertops.  The glass can be obtained from curbside recycling programs or found post-industrial glass from windows, demolition projects, even automotive glass.</p>
<p>Other materials used for recycled countertops include aluminum, bamboo, even paper.  A recycled countertop can be a beautiful and smart option for your new kitchen counter surface.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> can help you with your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> on many levels. With products from leading manufacturers at savings of up to 50% off, there are many ideas for <a title="home improvement" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/kitchen-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">home improvement</a> that will make a big difference in your <a title="kitchen design" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/designs.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen design</a> .</p>
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		<title>Sealing Your New Kitchen Countertop</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/sealing-counter-tops/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/sealing-counter-tops/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 20 Apr 2010 20:37:43 +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 Counters]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Stone]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1616</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[To seal or not to seal?  That is the question that comes up a lot once your new natural stone  kitchen countertops  are installed.  First, you should find out whether your new countertop has already been treated.  During processing from block to slab, many factories use a resin coat to fill in the stone and stop any fissuring of the stone. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-1618" title="countertops" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/countertops.jpg" alt="countertops" width="349" height="231" />To seal or not to seal?  That is the question that comes up a lot once your new <a title="natural stone" href="http://www.discounttiledirect.com/natural-stone-tile.aspx" target="_blank">natural stone</a> <a title="kitchen countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen countertops</a> are installed.  First, you should find out whether your new countertop has already been treated.  During processing from block to slab, many factories use a resin coat to fill in the stone and stop any fissuring of the stone.</p>
<h3>Know Your Stone and Know Your Facts Prior to Selecting a Sealant</h3>
<p>The Marble Institute of America (MIA) is a leading authority on information regarding standards, practices, and suitable applications for natural stone products.  You can find varying opinions in the industry concerning the sealing of stone for protection against stains and spills.</p>
<p>Talk to your fabricator or installer and gets his/her professional opinion about staining.  Secondly, do a little research about your stone and the different types of sealants available.  Arm yourself with the necessary information to ensure your countertop investment will last you for many years in the future.</p>
<p>For your <a title="kitchen remodeling" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodeling</a> needs, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has a wide variety of top-quality products, such as <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a> , <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a> and <a title="furnishings" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/furniture.aspx" target="_blank">furnishings</a> and more to help you create the kitchen you’ve always dreamed of – all at great savings for your budget!</p>
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		<title>Built-In Cutting Boards for Your Kitchen</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-accessories/built-in-cutting-boards/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-accessories/built-in-cutting-boards/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 18 Feb 2010 21:15:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Built-In Cutting Boards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cutting Boards]]></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=1435</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Who needs just one more thing to store in the kitchen?  Stop worrying about where to put the cutting board in your kitchen by remodeling to include a built-in cutting board.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1439" title="Cutting Board" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/Cutting-Board1.jpg" alt="Cutting Board" width="349" height="231" />Who needs just one more thing to store in the kitchen?  Stop worrying about where to put the cutting board in your kitchen by remodeling to include a built-in cutting board.</p>
<h3>Cutting Boards of Durable Materials</h3>
<p>Install a built-in cutting board in an island or new kitchen countertop.  These types of cutting boards are placed flush with the top of the surface.  These cutting boards are normally surrounded by a frame such as stainless steel to protect your surrounding <a title="countertop" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertop</a>.</p>
<p>Bamboo, wood, and glass are just a few of the durable materials used to construct cutting boards.  Stop looking for a place to store your cutting board and have one built in to your countertop as you remodel your kitchen.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> is ready to help you with your <a title="kitchen remodel" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodel</a> on many levels. With products from leading manufacturers at savings of up to 50% off, your ideas for <a title="home improvement" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/kitchen-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">home improvement</a> may be more feasible than you think.</p>
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		<title>Five Questions to Ask Yourself Before Remodeling Your Kitchen</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/five-questions-for-kitchen-remodeling/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/five-questions-for-kitchen-remodeling/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:01:46 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Flooring]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen REmodeling Planning]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1393</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Those of us who live in an older home or have lived in our homes for many years often long to redo, remodel, makeover various areas of the home to provide more convenience for today’s lifestyle. Kitchens are often at the top of this list. Kitchen Remodeling is an expensive investment, so we should make sure we are making the right decision before jumping in with feet first. Here are a few important questions to ask yourself.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1404" title="kitchen remodeling" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/kitchen-remodeling.jpg" alt="kitchen remodeling" width="349" height="231" />Those of us who live in an older home or have lived in our homes for many years often long to redo, remodel, makeover various areas of the home to provide more convenience for today’s lifestyle. Kitchens are often at the top of this list.</p>
<p><a title="Kitchen Remodeling" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">Kitchen Remodeling</a> is an expensive investment, so we should make sure we are making the right decision before jumping in with feet first. Here are a few important questions to ask yourself:</p>
<ol>
<li>Can I afford to remodel?</li>
<li>What is the ultimate goal of my remodeling plan?</li>
<li>Do I really have a logical plan in place?</li>
<li>Will it be worth the investment?</li>
<li>If I go forward with remodeling, do I know where to begin?</li>
</ol>
<p>Taking some time to answer these simple questions is a great starting point for making the decision to remodel or to live with your situation a little longer.</p>
<p>One thing to remember is that life is short and if you can afford to make your surroundings more convenient, then you can surely figure out how to answer the other questions with a little research and organized planning.</p>
<p>When it’s time for kitchen remodeling, <a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> can not only provide you with a great selection of <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a>, <a title="furnishings" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/furniture.aspx" target="_blank">furnishings</a>, <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a>, and <a title="flooring" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/flooring.aspx" target="_blank">flooring</a>, you will find savings of up to 50% off retail on brand-name products from leading manufacturers.</p>
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		<title>Durable Kitchen Countertops on the Horizontal</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/durable-kitchen-countertops-on-the-horizontal/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-countertops/durable-kitchen-countertops-on-the-horizontal/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 28 Jan 2010 20:50:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Countertops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Direct Buy]]></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=1370</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Choosing the material used for your kitchen countertop can be an intimidating task.  Some remodeling projects are done in phases and as with most things, changes in thought occur along the way.  Many believe the countertop in the kitchen is the item tying together all other elements. ]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-1372" title="installing laminate countertops" src="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/installing-laminate-countertops.jpg" alt="installing laminate countertops" width="249" height="332" />Choosing the material used for your kitchen countertop can be an intimidating task.  Some remodeling projects are done in phases and as with most things, changes in thought occur along the way.  Many believe the countertop in the kitchen is the item tying together all other elements.</p>
<h3>Resurfacing Your Countertop with Heavy Laminates Is a Viable Choice</h3>
<p>If you are looking for an alternative to spending major bucks on your <a title="countertops" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertops</a> , consider resurfacing the top with horizontal grade laminate.  Horizontal is the heaviest and most durable grade of laminate and is ideal for kitchen countertops under heavy use and impact.  New technology has vastly improved laminates and allow for updated designs and stylish colors.</p>
<h3>Laminate Counter Tops Are Easier on the Budget</h3>
<p>Laminate can brighten up your kitchen without the capital outlay of some other materials such as granite.  You can even purchase laminate which has the appearance of wood, granite, or engineered stone.  Many forms of laminate also come with a coordinating backsplash furthering its added value.</p>
<p>If you don’t want to make a lifelong <a title="countertop" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">countertop</a> decision at the moment but rather focus on purchasing cabinets first; you can change the look of your countertop at a fraction of the cost with heavy laminate.  Who knows, you might love your new laminate countertop so much, it will be your permanent choice for countertop material.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> is ready to help you with your <a title="kitchen remodel" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">kitchen remodel</a> on many levels. With products from leading manufacturers at savings of up to 50% off, your ideas for <a title="home improvement" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/kitchen-remodeling.aspx" target="_blank">home improvement</a> may be more feasible than you think.</p>
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		<title>Kitchen Remodeling Out of the Box</title>
		<link>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/kitchen-remodeling-out-of-the-box/</link>
		<comments>http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/kitchen-remodeling/kitchen-remodeling-out-of-the-box/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Dec 2009 20:17:26 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Karen, Kitchen Remodeling Pro</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Remodeling]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cabinets Appliances]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[DirectBuy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Counter Tops]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Kitchen Islands]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/blog/?p=1265</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[A kitchen tends to have harder lines than most other rooms of the house due to cabinets  and appliances  normally having to be placed along the walls.  Get out of the boxy feeling with a semi-circular or full circle kitchen island .]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>A kitchen tends to have harder lines than most other rooms of the house due to <a title="cabinets" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/" target="_blank">cabinets</a> and <a title="appliances" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/appliances.aspx" target="_blank">appliances</a> normally having to be placed along the walls.  Get out of the boxy feeling with a semi-circular or full circle <a title="kitchen island" href="http://www.directkitchencabinets.com/Kitchen.aspx" target="_blank">kitchen island</a> .</p>
<p>A more rounded island can bring some softness and asymmetrical lines to your new kitchen.  Dependent on the size, a rounded shape can also take up less room than a regular square or rectangular kitchen island.</p>
<h3>Plenty of Cabinet Space In a Circular Kitchen Island</h3>
<p>A circular island can still have plenty of <a title="counter top" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/counters.aspx" target="_blank">counter top</a> and cabinet space or additional room for cooktops, sinks, etc.  These are often a better fit for smaller kitchens.  When drawing up your plans, consider the option of using a circular kitchen island.  It will get you outside of the box and create a truly unique look in your new kitchen.</p>
<p><a title="DirectBuy" href="http://www.directhomediscount.com/" target="_blank">DirectBuy</a> has most everything you need to <a title="remodel your kitchen" href="http://www.directkitchenremodeling.com/" target="_blank">remodel your kitchen</a> for ultimate style and functionality. You will find brand-name products at manufacturer-direct prices that can save up to 50% off retail prices.</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>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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