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The kitchen countertop should be able to take much abuse, including hot pot, cutting and knives and abrasive. The ideal countertop should be able to withstand the heat and the tip of sharp knife.

Let’s take a look at seven of the most popular kitchen countertop materials in use today:

Granite – a natural stone, granite is a popular choice for the classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stone. It can create a kitchen countertop is scratch resistant and can stay longer than most materials shiny. Granite slabs of the most expensive of all kitchen table, though still as a very practical material that is considered almost indestructible.
Marble – Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.

Slate – Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds.  It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble.  Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use.  It is less expensive than marble

Concrete – This is one of the biggest trends in kitchen countertops today.   It is a good look for clean, industrial and contemporary kitchen designs.  Available in pre formed sections or poured and formed on-site.  Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters.  Concrete kitchen countertopsare expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care.  The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract.  Concrete can be stained any color.  The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.

Corian –  A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990’s  It is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts.  It is a totally manmade product and is not porous.  As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.

Stainless Steel – Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to exteme wear and heat.  Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen.  Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop.

Tile – Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosiac.  Available in many colors, sizes and textures.  It has good design flexibility.  Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes.  The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained.  Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked.

Today’s lifestyle is full of constant information and non-stop activity.  By getting organized, you will be able to lessen the stress of every day life and gain more enjoyment, productivity and success in your overall existence.
Below are several things you can do to make your life easier.  As you streamline your belongings and manage your time, you will begin to find more hours in your day to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

• Set long-term and short-term goals. What will you be happy with for now? What would you like it to look like by the end of the year? Sometimes doing things a little at a time in order to achieve the higher goal is better.

• Develop a system for paper, files and bills. By keeping on top of the paper filing, paying bills and keeping notes you will eliminate 20% of your stress in keeping up a household.

• Keep your organizing simple. Always remember to WORK SMARTER-NOT HARDER, take things down to the most simplistic form, it is usually the best way, easiest way and less expensive.

• Learn how to throw things away or donate them. Haven’t used it in a year? Get rid of it! Doesn’t fit or haven’t worn it? Get rid of it! Has needed mending for over 6 months? Fix it or get rid of it! Get the idea??

• Plan ahead and learn to save time. If you know that you will need supplies and you already plan on getting them, make a list before you start your project and go and get everything that you will need. The job will go much faster because you will be so excited to see what it will look like.

Organizing and planning ahead equal peace of mind and contentment.