Boston Bathroom Remodeling

18May09

How do you know that you need to undertake a bathroom remodeling project? The answer is simple. Just take a look around your house, with the bathroom as the main focus. Does the overall structure of your bath matches the overall décor of the home? If not, it is high time you went for a bathroom remodeling job. Remodeling the bath is also necessary in case the bathroom requires additional accessories, or if the designs have grown out of fashion. Also, most householders find it convenient if professional bathroom remodeling help is available from firms located close by. Hence, if you are a resident of Boston, the first thing you need to do is to acquire the services of a good Boston bathroom remodeling contractor.

How can you find a Boston bathroom remodeling firm? All that you have to do is t

Bathroom Remodeling

o browse through a business services directory. Most bathroom remodeling companies would have themselves listed in such directories, with a brief description of the services that they provide. Home-owners, on their part, need to be sure of the type of window they require, its materials, and other relevant details. All these information would ensure that you get matched to the best Boston remodeling contractors, in your locality too.

How does a bathroom remodeling contractor work? At the very outset, the contractor takes into account the exact requirements of the client, and then proceeds on the job at hand. The very basic considerations that any bathroom remodeling contractor needs to keep in mind are:

• The basic design of the bathroom à The structure, size and model of a bathroom have to be carefully planned by the bathroom remodelers. The required bath accessories should also be listed down. For this purpose, bathroom remodeling contractors often take help of the rich amount of information that is available on the web,
• Required services from the contractor à A bathroom remodeling professional needs to be sure of the precise nature of services that is expected off him/her. Bathroom remodeling services require householders to cough up rather high cost amounts, hovering in the region between $ 15000 and $ 18000. Keeping in view these bathroom remodeling charges, home-owners should ideally be doing as much of the remodeling job on their own. Only for the portion of the job that (s)he cannot do effectively himself/herself, the services of bathroom remodeling experts should be hired,
• Budget for bathroom remodeling à An approximate budget needs to be pre-defined for the bath remodeling project. The job can then be planned to be completed within that budget. Excess unnecessary spending of money can also be avoided,
• Monitoring by the householders à If the bathroom remodeling experts get their job constantly monitored upon by the householders, that makes sure that the new bath is being structured in accordance to the tastes and requirements of the home-owners.

There are several Boston bathroom remodeling contractors, whose services can be hired. Among them, B & B Unique Remodeling, Final Pick Services, Tbros Inc. Tretheway Bros Inc., Dedominici & Sons Remodeling, Renovation Planning, Tony & Son Tile and Boston Bathtub Resurfacing are the most well known firms. All these Boston bathroom remodeling contractors, along with several others can be easily located by looking through a local business services listings directory.

Bathroom remodeling forms a major portion of the entire renovation project for your house. Hence, it is advisable that you should take the expert help from a Boston remodeling professional, to ensure that your new, restructured bathroom is modeled just the way you wished it to be.

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Boston Bathroom Remodeling

04May09

Bathroom Remodeling

Remodeling the bathroom and giving it a new look is an important part of all home renovation projects. Properly done bathroom remodeling jobs can add that extra touch of poise and élan to this part of your house. However, most householders require expert guidance to make their bathroom remodeling projects a success. Fortunately, there are many professional bathroom remodeling contractors who offer their services to home-owners. Boston is no exception either. With the help of expert bathroom remodeling companies, Boston bathroom remodeling has become a rather common renovation project among residents of this area.

There are several popular bathroom remodeling contractors operating in Boston, much to the convenience of potential customers. Some of the top Boston bathroom remodeling companies are:

1. Tretheway Bros Inc,
2. Tony & Son Tile,
3. B & B Unique Remodeling,
4. Boston Bathtub Resurfacing,
5. Tbros Inc,
6. Final Pick Services,
7. Dedominici & Sons Remodeling,
8. Renovation Planning, LLC, and
9. MF Design Group.

Apart from the above, there are also quite a number of Boston bathroom remodeling contractors. Hiring the services of one of these experts is essential, since householders need to make sure that they get their money’s worth while taking up a bathroom remodeling project. This is particularly so, since bathroom remodeling come at a rather high price tag. In general, a basic renovation of the bath can cost in the range of $15000 to $18000.

A householder should also be aware of the exact nature of bathroom remodeling project that (s)he requires. Before actually starting to spend on remodeling the bath, a homeowner needs to be certain regarding the following issues:

• The exact bathroom remodeling requirement – A person needs to know which part of his/her bathroom needs to be remodeled. You should know whether the flooring of your bath requires renovation, or the general structure of the bath requires a change. You can also opt for a complete change in the layout of your bathroom,
• Hiring bathroom remodeling contractor – The services of professional bathroom remodeling experts are rather expensive. Hence, a householder needs to be aware of the portion of the remodeling job that can be done by himself/herself. Services of bathroom remodeling contractors should be hired only for the remaining part of the job,
• Plumbing System And Electric Wires – In case a bathroom needs to be completely restructured, the nature of pipes and other plumbing accessories should be chosen carefully. The electrical system need also be designed in a safe, convenient manner,
• Bathroom moisture – Excess moisture often accumulates in bathrooms, causing damages to the entire structure of the house. Hence, the nature of flooring, drywalls, joists and such other elements of the bathroom should be such that they block out the entry of too much moisture, and
• Shower and tub – The type, model and structure of the tub and the shower are, arguably, some of the most important elements of any bathroom remodeling project. As such, the tubs and shower systems should be chosen with adequate care.

Bathroom remodeling projects, hence, comprise of multiple factors, each of which requires due attention. Professional bathroom remodeling contractors can indeed go a long way in helping Boston remodeling projects becoming successful ones.

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Damp Basement – Make it Better

30Apr09

One of the most important features of a good, healthy and long-lasting home is a tough and sturdy basement. However, basement-related problems are not uncommon, and, if not attended to quickly, can grow serious. Thus, basement remodeling is an important issue, which homeowners have to consider from time to time. This is particularly so in case there are certain definite problems affecting the basement area. One of the most common problems in this context is a damp basement.

Damp Basement

A basement that remains damp all the time is a source of great inconvenience. However, before undertaking a basement remodeling project, the probable causes of this problem need to be identified. Basement dampness can be caused by the growth of certain live elements (like molds, mildews and such growths). If there is a problem of water seeping through the walls or the ceiling, then that too can result in a basement remaining damp. Also, a high level of humidity in the rooms of a house, a problematic damp basement may result.

Water leaking is one of the most important reasons of a damp basement. Leakage can occur from bathtubs, water pipes, showers and toilets. Water can also move from outside the house, if there exist cracks and/or gaps in the windows or doors of houses. In case regular leakage of water occurs on the basement of a house that should be fixed at first. Hence, if water keeps on leaking, from various sources, plumbers have to be hired.

Everyday activities at home result in increase in the overall humidity of your house. Such activities include common ones, like drying clothes, having a shower or even, cooking. These actions can result in an increase in the moisture content in the basement regions. Over time, this moisture evaporates, which leads to a rise in the indoor humidity level. This, in turn, can keep the basement damp at all times. If such is indeed the case, basement remodeling projects need to be preceded by effective measures to keep the humidity levels at home under control. Heating and cooling contractors may also be hired, if the humidity problems are being caused due to heating or cooling issues.

Proper identification of the cause of the dampness in the basement is necessary for appropriate basement remodeling jobs. This dampness can, in turn, can occur at different parts of the basement. The different common parts from where basement dampness can start to spread are the ceiling areas, corners of the rooms or the region below bathrooms. If the source of dampness is recognized to be a large area, it is, in all probability, caused by molds or other such growths.

In case there is a problem of damp basement in your house, you would probably need to undertake a basement remodeling project. For effective, long term solutions to basement dampness issues, householders have to spot the areas which are bringing in dampness to the basement areas. The probable causes of the damp basement need also be examined. Accordingly, basement remodeling should be done in such a way that, it can solve the problems of basement dampness. Identification of the causes of a damp basement is necessary to prevent this problem from resurfacing over time.

Removing the problem of damp basements can cost any amount between $ 2000 and $ 12000. This wide range of price is particularly due to the fact that, different corrective measures need to be taken, according to the source of the problem. Thus, the money that needs to be spent depends mainly on the type of work that needs to be done in the basement remodeling projects in this context.

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Tags: basment remodeling, damp basement

Vinyl Coated Panel Installation for Bathroom

24Apr09

Vinyl Coated Panel

Every house needs a well-designed and carefully modeled bathroom. Indeed, bathrooms require quite a number of accessories, including the necessary cabinetry, shower facilities and the flooring materials used. Hence, a bathroom remodeling project needs to cover all facets of the structure and design of a bathroom. Another extremely important part of any bath is the material used for paneling. Over the years, more and more people have opted for a vinyl coated panel in their bathrooms.

Bathrooms are the parts of a home where the humidity and the moisture content are on the higher side. Hence, the material used for bath paneling needs to be water-resistant, so that the amount of moisture remains under control. For example, a paper paneling is not suited for bathrooms since the former would definitely not last in the wet conditions in a bath. This is where a vinyl coated panel in a bathroom comes in handy. With the best anti-moisture features, vinyl is considered to be the ideal material for bath panels (among other paneling options). In the moist, humid conditions of your bath, only a vinyl coated panel can prove to be long-lasting.

In most rooms of the house, space is not a constraint for paneling. Hence, different wallpapers may also be used in these rooms. This, however, is not the case with bathrooms. Here, space is limited, and paneling needs to be done as per its structure. Vinyl coated panels suit such confined areas the best. In addition, these panels are non-slippery and resistant to stains. Hence, they can be easily cleaned, and with their anti-slip features, provide safety as well. Vinyl coated panels can also be customized to suit bathrooms of different sizes, designs and structures. Many attractive designs are also available on these bath panels as well.

While undertaking a bathroom remodeling project, home owners ideally desire such bath accessories and paneling that would not demand frequent attention. A vinyl coated panel is the perfect solution in this regard as well. These panels can be easily installed and sports an elegant, stylish look. Professional contractors may also be hired for installation, and ensuring that the panels do last for a long time. Once a vinyl coated bath panel is set up, the risks of excess moisture damaging the paneling disappears. In fact, you can even have a steam bath without having to worry about the additional humidity generated.

Unlike most other materials used for paneling in bathroom remodeling projects, vinyl coated panels are rather inexpensive as well. The prices of these panels generally vary in the range of $38-$50. With the perfect moisture-resistant, easy-cleaning and non-slippery features, these vinyl panels are certainly worth their prices. A vinyl coated panel would also not allow water to seep through to the adjoining areas of the bathroom. They prevent the growth of mildews and molds as well. With its manifold beneficial features, and extremely reasonable prices, a vinyl coated panel is certainly ideal for your bathroom.

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Tags: bathroom remodeling, vinyl coated bathroom, Vinyl Coated Panel

Bathroom Windows

17Apr09

All of us dream of having a luxurious bathroom but most of the time it is not possible due to space constraint or as they may be expensive. But within the same space and a little expense we can do a bathroom remodeling which can give us a new look in the same space with a small expenditure. You can try various things in the bathroom remodeling, such as setting up bathroom exhaust fan, installing ceramic tiles, installing stylish bathroom windows etc.

Installing a bathroom window can instantly change the look and feel of the area. The traditional styles of s

mall windows, high on the wall are times gone by. Nowadays everyone prefers to have a stylized bathroom just like the other rooms of their home. It is an extremely pleasant experience to be soaked in the tub and enjoying the natural light and warmth. It is a good idea to install bathroom windows with a little bit of creative planning.

You may need to look into the requirements of the area first. It is a good idea to add some venting windows or bathrooms exhaust fans if you have an exercise as well. But if you are planning for a relatively small bathroom, then installation of a stylish bathroom window is a good option. You can also choose windows of different shapes and sizes instead of the old four-angled ones. They are very easily available in stores.

You also need to plan the placement of the window very carefully. It is undoubtedly splendid to have natural sunlight

Bathroom Windows

peeping into your bathroom through the window, but make sure that the direct sunlight doesn’t spoil your bathroom mirror. Privacy is an important aspect but it should not at all restrict the natural air and light. So, it is very important that you plan and place the bathroom windows in such a manner that neither is your privacy disturbed, nor the natural air and light is restricted. It as advisable not to have the window installed directly facing the tub.

Bathroom windows, among all the other ways of bathroom remodeling are an instant way to change the look and feel of your bathroom. Though, the cost of windows is not very less and varies from $70 to $500 depending upon the material we are using. You can also use curtains, blinds and automated sliding windows to enhance the look even more.

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Tags: bathroom remodeling, bathroom windows

Double Glazed Window – A Better Look

06Apr09

Double Glazed Window

Windows and doors form extremely important structures of any house. Indeed, researches have found that, around 60% of the total light and warmth in a home comes from windows. They also facilitate smooth circulation of air within the rooms. Hence, while installing windows, special care needs to be taken regarding the type of window that is set up. For having a bright, airy and clean house, window replacement projects need to be expertly handled. Among other types of windows, a double glazed window is one that is gaining rapidly in popularity.

A double glazed window can be defined as one that has two layers of glazed glass in it. There exists some air space between the glass layers of these windows. When sunlight enters through double glazed windows, the latter captures some of the heat in their air space regions (via re-radiation). Thus, a double glazed window has a high R-value, which measures the ability to resist heat loss. For increasing the level of warmth of a room, these windows are an excellent option.

Double glazed windows also make sure that no condensation of air takes place in their air spaces. This is ensured by completely drying the air that is trapped between the two layers of glass. Thus, better insulation is another of the useful features of these windows. Due to this property of preventing excess moisture formation, double glazed windows are also termed ‘Insulating Glass Units’ (IGU). These windows are ideal for indoor insulation purposes, since they can completely and effectively segregate the external atmosphere from the air that is contained within its layers.

Customized types of glasses are generally used in double glazed windows. The thickness of these glasses ranges from 3 mm to 10 mm. The gap between the two layers of glass need to be at least 1 mm. The glass in these windows can also be tempered or laminated. While it is most common to use plain glass in these windows, tinted glasses can also be used. A double glazed window with a gray, bronze or green outer layer glass indeed looks attractive, and its benefits remain the same. Thus, while going for window replacement projects, the type of glass for double glazed windows needs to be definitely decided.

A spacer is typically used between the two layers of double glazed windows. Aluminum or thin gauge steel is normally used for creating these spacers. If fiberglass, or a combination of plastic and metal, is used in the spacer of these windows, the insulating properties receive a further boost too. While the standard R-value of a standard double glazed windows is generally in excess of 2, it can go up to even 12.5, depending on the type and quality of materials used.

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Tags: double glazed window, window replacement

Air Conditioning Calculation – Space vs. Load

03Apr09

When we set up an air conditioning system at our homes, what factors do we consider? Most of us would examine its cooling properties, features of its compressor and how long would it last, right? However, there are two other factors that are of paramount importance while installing air conditioning units. These are: a) the space taken up by the air conditioner and b) the load consumed by it while operating. Air conditioning contractors have to

Air Conditioner

keep these factors in mind while setting up a cooling unit. What’s more, these two features have to be considered in relation to each other as well.
Professional help is ideally needed while putting up an air conditioning system. That would help to correctly gauge the size of coolers that would be ideal in rooms of different sizes. Air conditioners that take up too much space often consume excessive load as well. Such incorrectly sized air conditioning units cannot get rid of the excess humidity in the air, which often results in the growth and multiplication of unhealthy molds. They also have a tendency to lack efficiency, and hence, their cost of operation remains higher than necessary. Excess load consumption is the primary reason for the added cost levels. Hence, estimation of the correct space and size of the air conditioners is of the essence.
The load of an air conditioner depends crucially on the structure of the room as well as its own operational system. An estimate of the R-value (which measures the insulation properties of rooms) is necessary for load measurements, as well as the overall volume of the room. The design of the flooring spaces, walls, windows and the ceiling area also influence the load consumed by air conditioning units. The materials used for making up the building, as well as its air leakage properties need also be closely looked at.
Apart from the overall space of the rooms, several features also have effects on the load of an air conditioner. The most important among such factors include the insulation properties of the room ducts, the placing arrangements of these ducts, and the sealing features of the joints in the room. For the correct installation of air conditioning systems, the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) brings out the Manual J. This manual needs to be carefully perused in order to learn about the correct sizes and load requirements of air conditioners.
The HB or the RTS method is commonly used for measuring the load of air conditioners. The amount, nature and balance of the transfer of heat in a room determine the cooling load of an air conditioning unit, as per the HB method. On the other hand, in the RTS method, the radiant load of a cooler (that is absorbed within the room space) is measured. These loads are then separated from their convective parts, and displayed graphically. The total load of an air conditioning unit is made up by the sum of its convective and radiant loads.
At around $1200-$1700 (and, for new systems, around $5000), air conditioners do come with a rather high price tag. Hence, contractors need to ensure that users can derive the maximum benefits from these units. A proper balance between the correct space requirements and the load consumption properties needs to be attained. That would indeed ensure the smooth, efficient and cost-effective functioning of your air conditioner.

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Tags: air conditioning, air conditioning loads, central air conditioning

Install Cabinet Base

23Mar09

Install Cabinet Base

In today’s modern world, appearance is as important as utility. Installing kitchen cabinets highly enhances the appearance and functionality of the kitchen. The installation doesn’t require hiring any professional. It is not a very difficult task to install cabinet base. All you need to do is to spend a weekend for it. It is important to do your homework before you start the installation. The choice may seem endless. Make sure to choose the cabinet keeping in mind the space, design of the kitchen and cost of the cabinet. Readymade cabinets are the best and easiest option as the cabinetmaker has done all the hard work by making it a ready-to-install cabinet. Base cabinets range from $100 – $250, depending upon the size, design and material. The more accessories you add the more the cost goes high. To begin with, keep all the tools ready that you would require for the installation.

Check the wall and floor if they are leveled. It is not a matter of concern with newly constructed buildings. Mark a straight line in such a way that the base cabinet tops are at the same level. Before installing cabinet base, we must ensure that the cabinets are aligned from the floors to the straight line. Shims, which are tapered length of woods, are used to raise areas or fill such gaps between cabinets and the floor.

Step 2:

It is important to know before installing kitchen cabinets, that they are fastened to the wall studs. So we must find and mark the studs beforehand. You can use a stud finder or a small drill to determine the studs. Once the first stud is found, the other studs can be determined 16” apart from each other.

Step 3:

You can verify the horizontal and vertical alignment of the cabinet area before you install the cabinet base. A carpenter’s level, i.e. a 2” x 4” level can be used to determine the same. You can now fix the base cabinet with the wall. The fasteners should be driven through the cabinet to the wall studs, and through the shims, wherever they are used so that those don’t slip off.

Step 4:

Once you have installed the base cabinet, the rest of the installation of the kitchen cabinet becomes easy. You can now fix the doors, drawers, counter-top and other hardware with the base cabinet. Its better to buy a pre-drilled cabinet so that the determination of the hinges does not become a challenging job.

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Tags: cabinet base, cabinet base installation, cabinet replacement, kitchen cabitet

Installing Ceramic Wall Tile

20Mar09

Ceramic Wall Tiles

When we think of bathroom remodeling, what come first in our minds are the walls and the flooring. The easiest way to make your bathroom look good is to install tiles. But, one of the most difficult decisions that we face when we are remodeling our bathroom is the installation of tiles. Not only do we need to decide the color and design, there are also many other factors like cost, which needs to be kept in mind. Ceramic tiles are extremely durable and beautiful too. They are available in a wide range of sizes and shapes, and are also available in various different textures, colors and hues. And Ceramic tiles are also available in various surface glosses. Ceramic tiles are very reasonably priced as well. On an average, Glazed ceramic tiles run from $1- $20 per square foot. Hence 10×10 foot room would cost $100 – $2000 on materials. Traditionally, neutral shades like, white, almond or gray were the most common shades for ceramic tiles. Nowadays, people are experimenting more with colors and hence, the shades are getting warmer and brighter.

Installing ceramic tiles is not a very difficult task. Whatever size or style we choose; the principles of installation remain the same.

Step 1:

The first step to install tiles is to mark the area. It is advisable to mark the area with a pencil as to till where we need the ceramic to be installed. Bathroom remodeling would become a lot easier if we can plan it beforehand.

Step 2:

The next step would be to temporarily place the starter tiles. The tile next to the corner wall will have to be cut to fit.

Step3:

We can spread as much mastic along the wall as we know that we can cover in the next half hour. The tiles may be pushed in a little twisting motion to spread the mastic, but be careful not to push the tile to hard or the mastic may rise above the grout line.

Step 4:

Repeat the steps once you’ve covered the bathroom remodeling planned area to install tiles. Allow the mastic to dry for about 24 hours before you start the process of grouting. Smooth the edge with the help of 80 grit sandpaper.

Step 5:

Mix the grout to a creamy consistency as per the manufacturers instructions. Wet the tiles before application of the grout. Wear gloves and apply the grout evenly on the wall. Use rubber squeegee to let the grout work well into the tiles.

Step 6:

Use a blunt stick to force the grout deep into the tiles. Then clean the excess grout with the help of a sponge. Allow the grout to dry overnight.

Finishing touches:

The bathroom remodeling would look even better with some more finishing touches. We can apply water resistant silicone caulk to seal the 1/8” gap between the first row of tile and the counter or the tub. It is also a good idea to apply a grout sealer after a week to prevent any undue dirt to stick to the grout and give it a ruining appearance.

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Tags: bathroom remodeling, ceramic tiles, install ceramic tiles, install tiles, tiles

Kitchen Remodeling – Applying Laminate to Countertops

16Mar09

While planning a kitchen remodeling project, replacing the old counter tops can easily make a big impact. And you can easily do it yourself too, which will save you lot of money as well. And if it is a small kitchen remodeling you are planning then there’s nothing easier. You can also apply laminate to your old counter tops which will not only protect your counter tops for long they are also available in various colors, patterns and designs. These laminated plastic sheets also available in gloss finish as well as in dull finish.

These laminated sheets of plastic are basically layers of paper that are first impregnated with resin and then they are bonded together with the help of high pressure and temperature which makes them into a rigid sheet. It is recommended that you use 1/16” thickness for flat surface. You can use 1/32” thickness for vertical surface.

Make sure to clean the surface where you plan to place the plastic laminate. Clean away any varnish or paint with the help of sand paper. Mot counter tops are manufactured with high density particle boards but even regular density particle boards and plywood make perfect bases for laminate plastics.

You can easily cut through plastic laminate with the help of a circular saw, a saber saw or a utility knife or back saw. Make sure that the blade of your saw is a fine tooth one. Place a strip of masking tape where the cut line has to be made, this will help prevent chipping and make the line easier to see.

If you are using circular saw or a saber saw make sure to cut from the backside of the laminate as these saws cut in the upward stroke. You’ll be able to prevent chipping if you cut through the back side.

Make sure that you cut the plastic laminates slightly over sized so that you can trim it better later on.

The best way to apply laminate to the counter tops in a kitchen remodeling project is by using contact cements. You can use epoxy adhesives as well but contact cement is better. Use slightly coarse sandpaper and roughen up the surface where the laminate will be applied. Now take a small brush and brush away the small sand particles from the surface.

Now brush the contact cement to the surface. Also, place an even layer of contact cement of the back of the plastic laminate. Let these both surfaces to dry. The general rule is that that the contact cement should feel dry to the touch. But it is better to check the label to make sure how much time is required for the contact cement to dry.

Once they both are dry you have to very cautiously place the plastic laminate on the surface. Make sure your positioning is correct before they touch each other. Keep in mind around 50%-70% bonding values of the contact cement is in the first contact. Place dowel rods in between the laminate and the surface while you make sure of the positioning. Now slowly remove the dowel rods when you are sure that the positioning is perfect.

Use a roller to apply pressure in order to eliminate any air pockets between the laminate and surface. Trim away the laminate if you need to, and remove any extra contact cement from the edges with a special solvent used for these purposes. You can even use a nail polish remover for this.

If you do this job on your own, it won’t cost you much; mainly the price of the plastic laminates and that will come down to around between $150 and $250.

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Tags: counter tops, kitchen countertops, kitchen design, kitchen remodeling