"Frequently Asked Questions... about countertops"

Q. I’ve put off getting a new countertop because I’m having a hard time choosing a color. Can you give me some ideas?

A. This is a great question. We’re often asked to assist in color selection, and it’s not that difficult, once you remember a few basics. First, decide whether you want your countertop to be the stand-out “focal point” color in your room, or would you rather make it neutral. If it’s the focal point, then plan on adding accessories that have that color in them, such as drapes, flooring, accent tiles, or countertop accessories. If you would rather make the countertop neutral, then plan on bringing in color in your drapes, tile, floor and accessories (these are less expensive to change when you decide you are tired of the color, or just want a change). Don’t worry about using dark colors either. Our design professionals will recommend lighting changes that will make your entire room light, bright, and functional.

Q. I want to make my kitchen look more modern. I have excellent cabinets, and the layout is fine. What can I do to give it a new look without starting over?

A. If you are happy with the way your kitchen is laid out, and everything works conveniently, there is no need to replace good quality cabinets. A new countertop however, will completely transform your kitchen at a fraction of the cost of a complete renovation. There are many different countertop materials to choose from, and each will give your kitchen a striking new dimension. Our design professionals can help you decide which product is best for you.

Q. I need a new dishwasher, but they installed my new hardwood floor right in front of it, and it won’t come out. Is there anything that can be done?

A. Yes. When we remove your old countertop to install the new one, we can remove your old dishwasher and replace it with a new one. Newer dishwashers have a greater range of adjustment, and can usually slide in and out after your new countertop is installed. If you like, we can build up the floor where the new dishwasher will sit to match the height of your new floor. We will also be happy to recommend a few good places where you can go to find anew dishwasher, not too far from where you live.

Q. I’m tired of my backsplash. The wallpaper is peeling and I would like to do something different. What are my options?

A. You have many options. First, you need to decide if a 4” backsplash is right for you. A backsplash protects the back wall from dirt and moisture, and is most often made of the same material as the countertop. The wall above is then painted or papered to fit your taste. We can often tuck the paper behind the backsplash, so peeling should not occur.

Newer trends favor a wall splash, which covers the entire area between your countertop and the wall cabinets above. This is usually done with ceramic tile, where the entire area is covered with “field tile”, and a few “accent tiles” are placed at random throughout the field. You will need to seal the grout lines after the installation is complete, but this is a very simple process that only needs to be done every couple of years. Other options include carrying the same material used in the countertop up the wall. Often this is done in a contrasting or neutral color, for a dramatic effect. In traditional kitchens, pine bead board is installed, and later painted. This gives the kitchen a “country look”, and is a fun alternative to using standard materials. We recommend this be done above or behind a 4” backsplash.

Your designer will suggest many different creative solutions for your new backsplash.

Q. I’m thinking of replacing my faucet since I’m getting a new countertop. Where do I go to choose one, and who puts it in?

A. This is a good time to replace your faucet, and take advantage of a new style to complement the new look of your kitchen. You can start your search by visiting www.faucet.com. There you will see many styles from many different manufacturers. If you would like to see one in person, we will be happy to recommend a design center close to you. Many times we can install your new faucet for you when we install your countertop. If we determine that the job requires a plumber, we will be happy to schedule one to arrive soon after your new countertop is installed. That way, you’ll be literally up and running as soon as possible. Since the plumber is NOT our subcontractor, you’ll pay him directly with no markup from us.

Q. My window sill is always getting wet when water splashes from the sink. I also like to keep some small plants there, but I constantly have to repaint it. Is there anything that can be done?

A. Often we can replace your window sill with Corian Solid Surface. This will make the surface completely waterproof, and easy to clean. We can vary the depth, and give the front edge a new profile, too.

Q. I would like to replace my range hood with a microwave, but it would hang down too low. Do I need to buy a new cabinet that’s shorter to allow enough clearance above my range?

A. Quite often we can remove your wall cabinet and cut it down to accommodate your new microwave. We can usually install it when we bring your new countertop. If you like, we can even install your new microwave. You’ll need a dedicated electrical circuit installed before we arrive, though, as using the existing circuit from the hood is not recommended. We will be happy to recommend a qualified electrician who will install this circuit before we arrive.

Q. My new countertop looks great, but now my cabinets look old. I don’t want to replace them now, but can anything else be done?

A. There are many things we can do together to give your kitchen a new look. The ceramic tile wall splash (discussed earlier) is one of the most dramatic. Other options include changing the knobs and pulls on your cabinets, and the installation of lo-voltage under cabinet lighting. Your design professional will be happy to assist you with your planning options.

Q. My child is constantly running into the corner of my countertop, and we often hit it with our hips as we pass by. What can be done to make my new countertop better?

A. We recommend either a “radius” (or rounded) corner, or a “clipped” (or 45 degree) corner, to do away with the sharp edges of a square corner. This will give your new countertop a softer look and feel.

Q. I like my single sink, but I see it’s chipped. Since I’m replacing my countertop, what are my options for replacing my sink at the same time? Also, I would prefer to have a sink with more than one bowl. Can I change that without damaging my cabinets?

A. This is a good time to replace your sink. If it’s 10-15 years old, chances are it needs to be replaced anyway, since the bolts that hold it to the countertop are probably rusted and unable to be removed. Your design professional can show you the latest in stainless steel, enameled cast iron, or composite, and together you can decide what’s right for you.

Often times we can enlarge the area needed for a larger sink, and again, this is the best time to do it. Upon inspection, we will be able to determine if your kitchen can handle a larger sink without making changes to your cabinetry.

Q. My sink seems fine. It’s a drop-in stainless steel sink and I want to hold onto it for now. Can I replace it with an undermount sink later?

A. That would likely be impossible, since the size of the cutout for a drop-in sink is larger than that of an undermount.

Q. Please explain what is meant by a template. I’ve heard some horror stories about people having to remove their countertop before a template can be made. How will this affect my family?

A. A template is actually a plywood replica of your existing countertop. This is what we use back in the shop to fabricate your new top. Unlike many of our competitors, we can make this template right over your existing countertop. Nothing needs to be removed or disconnected, and best of all, your kitchen functions normally during fabrication. Imagine being without your countertop and for that matter without your kitchen, while your countertop is being fabricated! We can’t imagine that either, so we’ve developed a method that works, without upsetting your lifestyle in the least.