Questions about cleaning granite countertops|Indianapolis home advice

  

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Questions about cleaning granite countertops

Question:

I am so tired of using soap and water on my granite, it takes forever to clean and remove the soapy film. I’d love a cleaner that I can "spray and wipe" for dried food spills, etc. I am starting to hate my granite because it is so high maintenance. Thanks in advance for any suggestions.

Answer:

You can find cleaners specifically designed for granite countertops in home improvement stores, such as Menards, Home Depot or Lowes or consult with the supplier of your countertops for their recommendations.

Also, don't forget to periodically seal your granite and other stone countertops to avoid any potential staining from foods and liquids.

You can get answers to your questions by "E-mailing the Expert" 

bar tops for your Indianapolis kitchen|Gettum Associates remodeling

  

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A bar top for your kitchen can be a functional focal point for your home

Kitchens have been become the place for entertainment and gathering in our kitchens. The addition of a bar top can not only be eye catching, but functional! Bar tops can be constructed of many different materials, can have several configuration and can serve multiple functions.

When we think of bar tops, some of us think of an expansive length of countertop where friends gather to to socialize. However, they are also functional within our family homes. Bar tops can be placed at the end of a run of countertop such as a peninsula, or built off one or all sides of a kitchen island. Kitchen bar top surfaces can be the same as the rest of the countertops in the kitchen or be a contrasting style, color and material.

No matter if you have a peninsula configuration or a separate kitchen island, a bar top can serve several purposes. Mainly, if you have a family and kids, it is a great place to cook and serve breakfast. Or, for entertainers, it is a perfect place to place food and drinks for your guest. Bar tops can also be on the same level as the rest of your countertops, or they can be raised.  Both styles can serve the same function, just be sure you pick out appropriate bar stools with the right height! For design parameters, and stool heights, Ask the kitchen experts at Gettum Associates for advice. You fill out a question, and receive an answer!

For bar top counter materials, you can choose the same material, style and color as your existing countertops, or an accent color. And yes, feel free to mix and match materials. It will only add to the character of your bar top.  While many may have laminate countertops throughout their kitchen, they may choose to equip their bar top with a contrasting material such as granite or solid surface. That is perfectly ok. 

There are many styles, design configurations, materials and colors that can be chose for a bar top. It all depends on your nees and the look you are going for. Feel free to get the opinion of your family and friends, then consult a design build remodeler in the Indianapolis area to get advice as to your best options.  Gettum Associates is glad to help you with your kitchen space and use planning. Since 1987, we have been turning houses into dream homes. Sometimes, it makes sense to update the kitchen you have and stay in the home you love.

For other kitchen ideas and advice, check out our website at http://www.Gettum.com

Reusing granite countertops|Indianapolis kitchen remodeling questions

  

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Reusing existing granite countertops in your kitchen and bath

Question:  Can I reuse my existing granite countertops for my next kitchen or bath remodel?

ANSWER:

More Indianapolis homeowner's are choosing to stay in their homes and renovate or remodel what they have.  Kitchen and bathroom remodel projects are among the most popular improvements.  In some cases, homeowner's already have upgraded their countertops in the past, but now choose to replace the cabinetry beneath.I have heard many owner's voice there concern of whether they put the cart before the horse, so to speak, and if they made the wrong choice initially. The good news is with a little care and time, your beautiful natural granite countertops CAN be reused!

However, there are a couple of caveats:

• You will want to keep your existing cabinetry layout.

• You will want to keep your existing sink location

• You will want to hire a professional company. Granite can be heavy and bulky, let a professional do the work for you and preferably the same company that installed the countertops originally. They will know the best way to go about a successful removal and reinstallation.

• You will need to accept the fact that no company can guarantee your countertop will not be damaged or break during the attempt. In fact, most companies will have you sign a waiver disclaiming this risk.

That being said, you can save A LOT of money by reusing your existing granite countertops.  If you have installed granite countertops to your kitchen in the past, consult with a reputable Indianapolis granite countertop supplier, such as Marble Uniques, about your project.

Do you have other questions about remodeling and renovating your Indianapolis home?  Do you need advice on how to select a contractor? Check out our free information guides by clicking below:

(Photos courtesy of Marble Uniques, Inc. )