How one handles improving their home can say a lot about how they handle a lot of situations. An endeavor that focuses on creativity and attention to detail is what makes home improvement so popular. That can sound intimidating to a new improver, which is why they should read the list of tips below.

Granite
When renovating your kitchen, avoid tiled counters. Tiled countertops are less sanitary than granite or mock-stone countertops, because food and other contaminants can build up in the spaces between the tiles. Tile countertops can also crack or even shatter if a heavy dish is dropped onto them, unlike countertops made of more modern materials.

If you're improving the look and feel of your kitchen by installing a granite countertop, consider individual tiles instead of a single piece slab. Granite slabs of countertop length can cost up to $5000, and sometimes even more. Instead, install foot-long granite tiles. For the same amount of space, installing granite tiles will only cost you a few hundred dollars.

Replace counter tops in your bathroom and kitchen with new marble or granite tops. Over time, counters will wear down especially if they are made of laminate. Older homes can have outdated or vintage counters. By replacing the counters you will improve the eye appeal and home value without spending a great deal of cash.

FLOORING
When trying to fix up a house to flip it, pay attention to the kitchen. If has linoleum floors, replace them with tile. It makes the place look much better. You should examine the counters and look at replacing them. They don't have to be granite, but granite counter tops increase the value of the home and up your chances of selling it.

Invest in tile flooring. The floor is something that most people notice when they are in your home, so if you want to catch their attention, use tile. Granite, ceramic or slate tiles are both attractive and durable and come in a number of different styles and finishes. Another plus is that they are much easier to clean than carpet.

Before you get started on any project, you need to first understand what you're getting into. Going into a project without knowing everything will result in a half-finished set of cabinets and granite tiles without any grout in the seams. Go through the project first and work up a blueprint before you start on it. Home improvement really is a creative endeavor, but that does not mean it is only for professional or serious do-it-yourselfers. This creative endeavor can be enjoyed by anyone of any improvement skill level. These tips were constructed to help those of all levels find their way into home improvement.

For more home improvement ideas, check out the following articels:

• 5 Types of Sinks for your Bathroom Remodel
• Upgrading Your Bathroom Faucet

If you have granite countertops in your home, you need to take care of them to keep their appearance looking good. When cleaning granite kitchen counter tops, you need to keep a few tricks in mind. Taking care of these countertops will help you retain their beauty and value for many years to come.

Here is a valuable video with tips for keeping your granite countertops looking their best for many years to come.

Granite's sturdiness and superbly vivid designs are the primary explanations why this natural material remains typically the most popular option for kitchen counter tops. Granite can also be probably the most resilient gemstones to warmth, stains and abrasions, and that's why it is a firm favorite for most kitchen surfaces.
 
An all natural stone quarried far underneath the Earth's surface, the granite kitchen counter top you select continues to be on the 1000 years within the making - therefore it is bound to stand the ages! Unlike synthetic imitations, an all natural material for example Granite offers incomparable beauty and originality - no two pieces are ever exactly the same making your kitchen area counter top stylishly distinctive.
 
When choosing a company by which to purchase your new granite counters, make certain they're experienced, are proud of their items and provide top quality granite from around the globe. They ought to offer installation services and assist you in finding the grade, color and a number of edging finishes. Granite's recognition is everlasting and it is one which will prove to add significant value to your house.
 
Color
 
Probably the most distinguishable aspects of granite is its diverse color scheme. Based mostly on a stone's mineralogy, the colours typically connected with granite vary from moderate beiges and rose pinks, classic black-and-whites to saturated yellows, wealthy vegetables as well as multi-colors.
 
Granite is quickly recognisable by its striking flecked or "pebbled" appearance. Its texture is definitely an unshakable manifestation of quality, stimulating interior beauty in almost any home.
 
Natural sources offer varied looks and charming qualities, giving a 1-of-a-kind appeal that merely can not be duplicated with a machine, however, you can be assured topping supplier buy and install just the finest grades of granite.

It is fairly easy to seal the granite kitchen countertops Denver suppliers offer. It is so easy that most of the tools and supplies you need for this project are already in your arsenal, and if you are missing any tools, they can be easily found in any local hardware store. By taking this project on yourself, you can save hundreds of dollars and still get professional results.

Cleaning your granite is the first step in sealing your countertop. It is very important to make sure that your granite is clean and dry before you seal it. You can use any type of granite cleaner on your countertop, but the best results come from a product specifically designed for natural stone. Black diamond granite counter cleaner is the most highly recommended cleaner that promises to never leave any harmful residues.

Before sealing the granite countertop it is a good idea to clean the countertop twice allowing time for it to dry in between cleanings. waiting about one hour in between cleanings will ensure that the cleaner has penetrated the stone giving better surface and subsurface protection.

After the granite countertop is completely clean you can move onto the sealing portion of the job. To get the professional results you desire you need to use professional grade products that are designed for natural stone. Granite sealer is a great product that will not alter the appearance of your natural granite countertop's gloss or stone. Granite countertop sealer is easy to use, and does most of the work for you. The best sealers have a spray top that make it so much easier to cover the counter without having to pour it out of a container with a flip top.

By Dara Summers

Granite countertops are popular because of their beauty and durability. If they are cleaned regularly and well maintained, they will keep their polished look for many years. However, sometimes grease and soap residue build up, causing the surface to become dull and faded. Scratches and extended exposure to sunlight can also cause dullness. There are ways that you can restore the look of your granite.

Granite-Polishing Powder
If you have dullness caused by light and surface etching, granite-polishing powder may be able to remove it. Be sure to check with the manufacturer of your countertops before you use it, because the powder is somewhat abrasive. Normally, abrasive substances should not be used on granite. However, granite-polishing powder can remove shallow scratches, stains, and residue.

If the manufacturer approves the use of the powder, mix it with water to create a paste. Then wipe it into the countertop with burlap or a felt pad. Note that some polishes are designed specifically for light or dark stone, so be sure to choose the right one for your surfaces.

Acetone
Often kitchen countertops, particularly near the stove and sink, become dull from grease, oil, or soap. That is why regular cleaning with water and gentle dish soap are important. If the problem has gotten past the point of regular cleaning, you can use acetone, which acts as a solvent to dissolve oily stains. Scrub the surface with the acetone, using a soft cloth, and then rinse with warm water, and dry with a clean cloth.

Resealing
Granite countertops need to be regularly resealed. Most experts recommend that this be done at least once a year, or more if you notice that water is no longer beading on the surface. When you purchase your countertops, find out if your retailer has a maintenance plan that provides regular resealing.

If you choose to do the resealing yourself, check with the manufacturer or retailer to find out what product they recommend. Before applying the sealant, clean the surface. Apply the sealant with a rag or a spray bottle slowly and evenly. After it is fully dry, you can apply additional coats if you feel it is necessary. It is essential that you cover the surface in an even coat. After the sealant had dried completely, you can apply as many as three additional coats to provide the most effective protection.

Refinishing/Repolishing
If your countertop is badly faded, it may require professional treatment. Sometimes acidic substances cause deep etching that can only be removed by repolishing or refinishing. This requires specialized equipment, so you should call a stone restorer to do it. Contact the company that sold and/or installed your countertops to find out if they handle this, or can recommend someone who does.

Once your surfaces are restored to their previous luster, remember the importance of regular cleaning and care. If you have an outdoor kitchen with granite surfaces that are regularly exposed to sunlight, purchase a cover to protect it from the elements. These simple precautions will save you time and money.

About the Author:
Dara Summers is the VP of Sales and Marketing at Premier Surfaces, the premier source for Atlanta granite countertops and granite countertops in Alabama. Premier Surfaces is dedicated to providing the highest level of quality in both products and service. Visit Premier Surfaces at either of their Atlanta, Huntsville, or Birmingham granite showrooms or learn more about the company's selection of Birmingham granite at http://www.premiersurfaces.com/.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dara_Summers