Pros and Cons of town-homes

Many of us have miss conceptions about town-homes   True: Share the wall with the neighbors, have a really small space, have town-home associations just like condos.

Here are the good things about town-homes:

-First of all, the difference of a townhouse and an apartment is that, you have that small space of “yard” In your property.  Many of us, like plants, and have a small land we can call ours, a small place where you can sit and neighbor watch.

If you like the yard idea but not the extra work, no worries, town-homes have associations that: will take care of the lawn, exterior painting, blow the leaves off the walkway and parking spaces, some associations even take care of replacing the shingles on your roof!

-The best part of a townhouse is that you do not have to match your neighbors’ town-home style or color.  Many associations let you paint, remodel and change few things in your condo as far as it’s approved by them. In a condo you cannot change the exterior of your home.

-Unlike homes, town-homes come with amenities included, such as gym, pool, tennis courts, in many communities even a party room to reserve.  In some cases the town-home association might let the townhouse owners contribute to add more amenities to the community.

-The town-home community is smaller therefore, everyone knows everyone.  The neighbor watch is better.  If you are going out of town, just let your neighbor know, and it is easier for them to watch out, even hearing noises is easier.

Here are few things on the downside of town-homes:

-The unfortunate part of a town-home is parking, you only get about 2 parking spots, but there are visitor parking spots (that might be full or need permit from the office or are far away.)

-Noise: since you are sharing at least one wall with your neighbor, some noises will not be pleasant.

-That extra space for projects; since you have a smaller land in your townhouse, you do not have much space for pools, or sun-rooms  or even just space for kids to run.

Before you buy look at what you really want:

-a condo with minimal space, but less work

-A townhouse with moderate space and convenience?

-Or a home with a lot of space but more work to be done

The choice is yours, in any case for any needs, we always have free estimates!

Wet or dry, large or small, built-in bars suit anyone who wants an entertaining place for friends and family.

Thinking of one? Here are some choices:

Keywords: Wet bar vs. Dry bar

Basically an area where you have your drinks to mix or serve is a dry bar. The difference between a wet bar is that, in a wet bar, you have a sink with running water, and plumbing involved.  Having a wet bar is more convenient in the fact that you have a place to wash the glasses and get instant water for your drinks mix.

Butler’s Pantry Bar
Constructed as built-ins or to resemble oversized furniture pieces, these wet bars transform a transitional space near the kitchen or dining room into an efficient entertaining area.  Drawers are often concealed behind the fine cabinetry. And that’s the idea: great-room polish with kitchen function. A long countertop with the sink positioned at one end makes party-food prep more convenient. Handsome stone countertops provide a durable, stain-resistant work surface that’s easy to wipe clean. Often, materials are slightly upgraded from what’s in the kitchen, since here they’re on public view. You will need electrical and plumbing work.

The Pull-Up-a-Chair-Bar
The seated bar is still a favorite, especially where it can double as a spot for morning coffee or after-school smoothies. Sit-down bars can range from a freestanding front bar that accommodates eight in an entertainment room to having a pull up chairs in the kitchen. Since the inner workings of these bars are hidden behind a counter, their fixtures and materials tend to be more casual with basic countertops and simple bar sinks and faucets that favor function over decoration. What is seen is the base of the seating area, which may be covered with wainscoting, barn siding, stone, or brick—stuff that stands up to shoe scuffs. Open shelves or glass-front cabinets show off stemware and serving pieces. You will need plumbing if you want a sink and electrical work if you want some appliances added such as a mini fridge.

The Anywhere-It-Fits Bar
Follow your waterline and you just might discover a ­closet or convertible space that has wet-bar potential. Of course, not every bar needs a sink, but smart architects and homeowners have discovered that closets and unused areas ­adjacent to powder rooms, kitchens, even laundry rooms, can be converted into drinks centers by tying into the ­existing plumbing. Quick and casual, these bars typically have just enough work surface to slice a lemon, just enough of a fridge or wine cooler to keep the after-work chaser chilled, and just enough storage to handle the liquor cabinet and some basic barware.

The Old-Fashioned reclaimed bar
For purists who want the look and feel of an old pub in their home, a reclaimed bar is the way to go. Finding one might not be as difficult as you think. Some dealers specialize in bars, receiving stock from dismantled saloons and apothecaries in the U.S., Britain, and Ireland. They’ll even work with you to figure out how to retrofit them with a bar sink, fridge, or flat-screen TV. Some owners buy just a back bar to add atmosphere. You will definitely need electrical and plumbing work.

..and the Sidecar
For those with space (and budgetary) constraints, manufacturers are busily turning out stylish, storage-intensive bar cabinets, neatly containing glassware and bar accessories. These furniture pieces can be a tabletop model to a 7-foot painted-wood hutch that could sit in the dining room. Among their extras: pull-out serving trays, grooves for hanging stemware, rolling wheels and concealed casters.

Whichever you decide for, you will have entertainment for sure!

We have designers and a complete line of handyman services: electrical, plumbing, HVAC, Tile, Flooring, Windows, roofing and more…and as always, free estimates!

Whether you’re looking for a way to heat your home, or just want a little romantic ambiance in the evenings, a fireplace can be a fun way to achieve both.

 Which is the best type of fireplace though? Wood-burning?  Gas?  Electric?  

 How did it start? Early versions of chimneys first appeared in Europe in the 12th century and were usually made of brick.

 The main benefit: As energy prices continue to rise, the presence of a fireplace raises the value of a home by about $12,000, according to the National Association of Realtors.

Lets take a look at the Pros and cons of the three:

Wood-burning Fireplaces

Wood-burning fireplaces come with many homes, and you may already have one. The downside to wood fireplaces is that you have to buy or cut your own wood, store it somewhere dry so it can season, lug it in the house whenever you want to build a fire, and worry about stray sparks and other fire safety issues (such as not being able to leave the house while there are still embers glowing).

For all these reasons, many people who have traditional wood fireplaces don’t use them that often. In addition, a wood fireplace isn’t a very good way to heat a home. Much of the heat goes up the chimney, and drafts will come down even when the fireplace is not in use.

Fireplaces that burn wood are also messy, and you’ll have to vacuum ashes often.

On the plus side, a crackling wood fire can be fun, especially in power outages. It’s also nice to snuggle up to when you want a romantic evening at home with your significant other.

So, who should consider a wood fireplace? If you don’t plan on building fires very often and aren’t worried about heating the house effectively, you can stick with a wood-burning fireplace. Also, if you’re in love with “real” fires—you know the snap, crackle, and pop of actual wood going up in smoke—then a substitute fuel just won’t work.

Gas Fireplaces

Gas fireplaces (which include gas inserts, gas log sets, and self-contained vent-free units that don’t require chimneys) are growing in popularity. Though they lack the reality of a true fire (sorry, no snap, crackle, and pop here) they can put out a pretty convincing flame. Their convenience also makes them a winner for many.

With gas fireplaces, all you have to do is flick a switch to turn them on. Upper end models even come with remote controls so you don’t have to get off the couch. Maintenance is minimal compared to all the work associated with wood-burning fires. Gas fireplaces are even good for area heating—that’s where you just heat the room or living area where you’re spending most of your time instead of turning on the home’s central heat and wasting money heating the whole house. Gas fireplaces can also work when the power goes out, so they are a nice backup way to heat the home during a storm or other emergency that leaves you without electricity.

Electric Fireplaces

Lastly, let’s look at electric fireplaces. They are a cheaper alternative to buying a gas insert or self-contained gas fireplace, and they are much cheaper than having a whole chimney and wood-burning fireplace installed. You do make quite a few sacrifices for that lower cost though.

Electric fireplaces are known for looking even “faker” than gas fires. There aren’t any actual flames, just digitalized versions that mimic fires.

Since electric fireplaces run on electricity, they won’t work during a power outage. They do put out some heat, but it is not the most efficient. They’re about on par with space heaters. Indeed many people have called them glorified room heaters.

 On the plus side, electric fireplaces don’t require any sort of installation. They just come with a plug that you stick in an outlet, and voila: your fireplace is working. They can be a nice choice for people in condos or apartments, where you can’t make drastic changes to the walls (such as building a fireplace in your living room). Also, their easy portability means you can move them from room to room.

As you can see, gas, electric, and wood-burning fireplaces all have their advantages and disadvantages. Hopefully this article has helped you decide which is best for you.

 Some tips for your fireplace:

• Reduce heat loss by opening dampers in the bottom of the firebox (if provided) or open the nearest window slightly – only about an inch – and close doors leading into the room.
• Keep it clean by hiring a chimney sweep to inspect your chimney each year. And keep ash and soot from collecting in the fireplace to improve   efficiency.
• Install tempered glass doors and a heat-air exchange system that blows warmed air back into the room.
• Check the seal on the flue damper and make it as snug as possible.
• Use grates made of C-shaped metal tubes to draw cool room air into the fireplace and circulate warm air back into the room.
• Keep your fireplace’s damper closed when you aren’t using it.

 Warning

A chimney that isn’t properly cleaned can become both a fire hazard and a means for deadly carbon monoxide gas to build up in the home.

Hope this article helped you decide which one is best for you! If you decide for the Conventional Wood or gas, we can help you on both!

Call us for a free estimate!

Residential Sprinkler system Fact Vs. Myth

Firs of all, no body wants their home to be involved on a fire tragedy.  But unfortunately, some things are unstoppable.  Here is at least one thing to help prevent an extensive damage from fire in our property.

MYTH “A smoke alarm provides enough protection.”

FACT Smoke alarms alert you to the presence of danger, but cannot extinguish the fire. Home fire sprinkler systems respond faster to reduce heat, flames, and smoke from a fire, giving you time to get out safely. The use of fire sprinklers can reduce the change of death by 50%.  

MYTH “Newer homes are safer homes; the fire and death problem is limited to older homes.”

FACT Age of housing is a poor predictor of fire death rates.  When older housing is associated with higher rates, it usually is because older housing tends to have a disproportionate share of poorer, less educated households.  Statistically, the only fire safety issue that is relevant to the age of the home is outdated electrical wiring.  Beyond that, age of the home has little to nothing to do with fire safety. A fire at 2:00 a.m. is just as deadly in a new home as it is in an older home.

In 2008, Underwriters Laboratories® (UL) conducted a study that found that the synthetic construction of today’s home furnishings add to the increased risk by providing a greater fuel load. Larger homes, open spaces, increased fuel loads, void spaces, and changing building materials contribute to:

• Faster fire propagation
• Shorter time to flashover
• Rapid changes in fire dynamics
• Shorter escape time
• Shorter time to collapse

Lightweight construction has been variously estimated to be used in one-half to two‐thirds of all new one‐ and two‐family homes, excluding manufactured homes. Fire sprinklers can offset the increased dangers posed by lightweight construction and create a safer fire environment for firefighters.

MYTH “Home fire sprinklers are expensive and will make housing unaffordable, especially for first-time buyers moving to our area.”

FACT Home fire sprinklers are affordable. The Fire Protection Research Foundation recently issued the Home Fire Sprinkler Cost Assessment report (PDF, 634 KB), which revealed that the cost of installing home fire sprinklers averages $1.61 per square foot for new construction. To put the cost of a sprinkler system into perspective, many people pay similar amounts for carpet upgrades, a paving stone driveway, or a whirlpool bath. Sales in many U.S. communities where sprinkler systems are available show that, not only are consumers requesting this feature, but also that houses with sprinkler systems are selling faster than those without. Installing home fire sprinklers can help residents: significantly reduce property loss in the event of fire; cut homeowner insurance premiums; help qualify home for a tax rebate; and help support local fire service efforts.

MYTH “Home fire sprinklers often leak or activate accidentally.”

FACT Home fire sprinkler systems are much like home plumbing systems – when installed and maintained properly, there is a very low risk of leaks. Each individual sprinkler is designed and calibrated to activate only when it senses a significant heat change, directing water to the area of the fire. Over the last 50 years, records indicate the likelihood of leaks from automatic sprinkler systems is very remote.

MYTH “If you want your home fire sprinklers to be reliable, they will need frequent, expensive maintenance.”

FACT The standard design for home fire sprinklers is much simpler than the design for more traditional sprinklers like the ones used in commercial buildings.  If you install a home fire sprinkler system, the only “inspection and maintenance” you will need is to (a) walk around your home and make sure the sprinklers are not obstructed by something that would block the water coming out, and (b) avoid turning off the main control valve, which you don’t normally operate anyway.

FACT In the event of a fire, typically, only the sprinkler closest to the fire will activate, spraying water directly on the fire, leaving the rest of the house dry and secure. Roughly eighty-five percent of the time, just one sprinkler operates.

MYTH “The water damage caused by the sprinkler system will be more extensive than fire damage.”

FACT Home fire sprinklers can significantly reduce property loss and damage due to a fire. The sprinkler will quickly control the heat and smoke from the fire, limiting damage to other areas of the house, giving residents valuable time to get out safely. Any resulting water damage from the sprinkler will be much less severe than the damage caused by water from fire-fighting hose lines. Fire departments use up to 10 times as much water to extinguish a home fire as fire sprinklers would use to extinguish the same fire.

MYTH “Home fire sprinkler systems are unattractive and will ruin the aesthetics of our residents’ homes.”

FACT Actually, new home fire sprinkler models are very unobtrusive, can be mounted flush with walls or ceilings, and can be concealed behind decorative covers.

MYTH “Any time a smoke alarm goes off it will activate the home fire sprinklers.”

FACT Each individual sprinkler is designed and calibrated to activate when it senses a significant heat change. They do not operate in response to smoke, burned toast, cooking vapors, steam, or an activating smoke alarm.

more info at: NFPA website.

Conventional Bathroom Remodels fading away…

Nowadays describing a “typical” bathroom renovation is hard! We will tell you that there isn’t a typical one these days.  Like everything else, bathroom remodeling has become all about personalization and possibilities.

Personalization vs. customization.

Example, we can personalize your bathroom remodel without using custom bathroom cabinets. Instead, we can work creatively with semi-custom cabinets to design bathroom surfaces and storage that’s personalized just for you.

A so-called typical bathroom remodel used to include a tub, shower, toilet and vanity. Now, even a luxurious master bath may not include a tub – some people don’t want to use the floor space since they don’t have the time or desire to take baths. Instead, they want their bathroom remodeling contractor to give them a larger shower enclosure. If tubs are on the wish list, they’re often free-standing ones with an airier feel than built in tubs.

In conventional bathrooms, toilets and vanities were mounted on the floor. Today, wall-mounted bathroom cabinets and toilets are increasingly popular elements of bathroom remodeling. The fact that they “float” makes even smaller bathrooms feel large and uncluttered.

As remodelers, we see lots of lists of what’s in and what’s out. But even these lists don’t point to a typical, conventional bathroom. Bathroom renovation is all about what you like, what you need and how you live. No two families are the same – and that’s why today’s bathroom remodeling is becoming far less conventional. The more different the better! People like to stand out even in small things!

Trends of the season in remodeling

If you’re planning to remodel your home, you should follow the hottest trends in new-home designs.

1. It’s all about energy efficiency – Americans continue to embrace all things green and that trend is showing up in new home construction in a number of ways, including an emphasis on energy-efficient windows that bring the outdoors inside with a great view.

If your home has older windows, they’re likely not as energy efficient as newer options, so replacing them can improve your heating and cooling efficiency. Window replacements typically provide a high return on investment at the time or resale.

While you’re replacing your windows, you also have the opportunity to open up your home more to outdoor views. Work with our designer to determine where the best views are, and how much additional glass you can incorporate into your renovation to capitalize on those views.

2. Add a bathroom or powder room – When it comes to renovations that improve resale value and enhance a home’s usability, adding a bathroom is at the top of the list for many homeowners. While today’s new smaller homes often have less square footage, demand for multiple bathrooms has not changed.

In existing homes, adding a bathroom can sometimes pose plumbing challenges. Up-flush plumbing can solve a lot of them. Up-flush systems pump waste and water from a toilet, sink or bathtub up and out, instead of into a below-floor sewage pit.

Up-flush toilets enable homeowners to easily and cost-effectively install a bathroom virtually anywhere without breaking through the floors – a special advantage when those floors are made of concrete. That means adding a basement bathroom doesn’t require cutting into a home’s concrete foundation, and you can easily add an attic bathroom without tearing up the first-floor ceiling. Adding a bathroom using this type of plumbing can cost about $5,000 less than one that uses conventional plumbing.

3. Defining the kitchen – Kitchens are another popular renovation that pays off in a number of ways. Architects are fine-tuning the popular wide-open floor plan concept, and the change is showing up in the kitchen. Favored designs now open the kitchen on one side to an adjoining room, such as the family room, but enclose the other three walls to create a more defined space, as well as more storage and cabinet options.

This trend works particularly well in older homes where you frequently find a completely separate kitchen. Now, rather than ripping out three walls to create an entirely open flow, you can tap the latest kitchen design trend by opening up just a single wall in the kitchen. This leaves the space well-defined, but also adds the open, social feeling that is so appealing in many new home designs.

4. Maximizing every inch of space – With smaller floor plans gaining popularity, making the most of every inch of space is vital. New-home design employs entertaining nooks, breakfast alcoves, built-ins, pocket doors and other tricks to use every inch of space wisely.  It’s a trend that also works well in older homes that may have smaller rooms and less square footage.

If you crave a fresh environment and the latest home design trends, you don’t have to give up your old home and tackle the hassles of moving into something new. With some planning and creativity, it’s possible to translate some of the hottest new-home design trends into your renovation project.

Our designers and architects can guide you in the right direction for your project. As always we have free estimates!

One thing that is still on your wish list.

Home remodeling and rebuilding has certainly changed! Home construction companies offer greener options, home renovation includes all kinds of new products and gadgets, and from kitchens to whole house remodel, styles tend to be simpler and more streamlined.

 But here is one thing that hasn’t changed: people still love their books and still want a home remodel to include places where they can store, display and enjoy their treasured volumes.

You might not think that from browsing the pages of current shelter magazines that show such pared down interiors. But the truth is that even in the age of iPads and Kindles, house remodeling contractors know how much people like to live with their books. Today, when we talk about home construction with clients, they often put built-in bookcases or a reading nook on their wish list.

If you love living with favorite books, here are a few interesting ideas to consider in thinking about how to include them in your own upcoming home remodel:

•Try shelving books in unexpected places: you don’t have to do a whole house remodel to create a mini-library! As a house remodeling contractor, we can design and build interesting shelves to display books in almost any room. In the dining room, for example, books can be great for starting conversations.

•Carve out a bit of space for a reading nook: widening a landing, for example, can create a quiet, cozy place to read that’s away from the bustle of the family room or other busy areas of the home. Remodeling that includes a pretty window lets you enjoy sunshine and a lovely view as you read.

•Use doors on the front of bookshelves: With doors that slide, open or even roll up tambour-style, even the most tattered – but beloved – book collection fits in with the sleekest, most minimalist interior design.

We can help you include books in your home – remodeling your kitchen, bedroom, bathroom or whole house to the perfect spaces for a few cherished books or hundreds! Want some ideas to get started?

Just give us a call!

You can be as creative as you would like when it comes to your home!

There are several reasons why you might need a fence: for privacy, for safety (kids or pets), to separate your property from your neighbor, etc.

Before you take that step go ahead and read this article, it is helpful:

BEFORE YOU EVEN THINK OF BUILDING YOUR FENCE FIND OUT THE FOLLOWING:

• ·         Is the fence yours? If not you might need to ask permission to your neighbor
• ·         Do you need a permit? Find out giving us a call
• ·         Do you know your property line? This is outlined on your property plot

TYPES OF FENCES:

• ·         Wood
• ·         Vinyl
• ·         Ornamental iron
• ·         Aluminum
• ·         Chain link
• ·         Gates

PERMITS (depends on your state, county or city)

 This is an example for Fairfax County, VA

Generally, on most residential lots:

• Fences may be up to four feet tall in front yards.

• Fences may be up to seven feet tall in rear or side yards.

• Under certain circumstances, fences may be up to eight feet tall if built along a major thoroughfare, like the Fairfax County Parkway.

• For specific information about allowable fence heights on your property, call us, we will contact the Department of Planning and Zoning.
• It is possible to build taller fences if you apply for a special permit PDF through the county planning and zoning.
• Building permits generally are not required for fences — unless they are taller than six feet. Masonry walls or fences require building permits prior to construction. Before putting up a fence or wall, call us, we will contact the Department of Public Works and Environmental Services.

Other requirements

There also may be additional requirements if the fence is built in a Resource Protection Area or storm drainage easement. The Land Development Services, Department of Public Works and Environmental Services, need to be contacted.

FACTS AND REASONS:

 FACT #1: All posts, regardless of species of wood, will eventually split or crack.
REASON : The outside of the post, exposed to the sun, dries faster than the inside thus exerting pressure on the outside. In the

lumber industry, a surprising amount of cracking or splitting is accepted across all grades of lumber. The better grades split less than the lower grades. We are committed to using grade #2 or better on pressure treated pine, and #1 grade on cedar. You can expect cracks to occur in all your posts and in some runners and pickets.

FACT #2: The natural drying process causes shrinkage and warp age.
REASON : Warp age is primarily due to the structure of the wood through environmental factors, such as a hot, dry climate. The wood cells lose moisture content causing contraction. In a humid climate, the wood cells absorb moisture, causing expansion. Expect all wood on a fence to warp age can occur during installation or at a later time, in all directions.

FACT #3: All heads of nails driven into fencing will eventually rust and “streaking” will occur down the boards.
REASON : When nails are driven into a piece of wood, the hammer often removes the galvanized coating on the head of the nail. In an effort to minimize the streaking, we only use ring shank non-rust nails. Eventually, the streaking caused by the rusting of the nail head will blend with the gray of the weathered wood.

FACT #4: Splitting near the end of a piece of wood when nailing, can occur during installation.
REASON : Wood fibers split when a nail is inserted into the wood, which in turn, splits the wood.

FACT #5: Wood changes color as it ages.
REASON : When the wood turns gray, some almost black, it means that the wood is drying out.

FACT #6: Evidence of wood bore tracing in red cedar species is generally not a problem.
REASON : When a tree is cut down, the woodborer generally “flies or dies,” and further wood boring is improbable.

FACT #7: Gates are an industry wide problem.
REASON : Warp age of wood will result in warped gates, which will require maintenance on the customer’s part. The customer should lubricate hinges and latches, and adjust when required. Gates MUST be latched when not in use to prevent wind damage and minimize the warping of the wood.

ONCE YOU DECIDE TO BUILD YOUR FENCE, CALL US FOR A FREE ESTIMATE, WE TAKE CARE OF ANY PERMITS NEEDED!

Do you know the saying, “First impressions last’?

That’s right! Have you ever entered a home, and think…”What in the world is that smell?”

]]> http://abcdesignandbuild.com/the-importance-of-range-hoods/feed/ 0 http://abcdesignandbuild.com/meet-granite-your-new-countertop/ http://abcdesignandbuild.com/meet-granite-your-new-countertop/#comments Mon, 29 Apr 2013 19:06:31 +0000 admin http://abcdesignandbuild.com/?p=1163

Not sure if granite is the best option for your countertop?  Well, these few facts might help you in deciding:

Getting to know granite as a countertop

-Granite, which makes up 70–80% of Earth’s crust, is a truly unique type of material that many homeowners choose to get for their home because it is strong, scratch-resistant and resistant to heat. Not to mention the stone has some amazing designs in it that can dazzle your eye and really make your kitchen look amazing. So, here are some interesting facts about a truly amazing material.

-It is a misconception that granite is expensive. Granite is competitively priced compared to other high-end surfacing materials. Granite offers you an unmatched value with its natural beauty, elegance and longevity. Natural stone does not depreciate with time and adds value to your home or office.

-Granite is one of the hardest substances in the world. In fact, the only thing that is harder than granite is diamonds. This is what makes granite so sought after as a countertop. For the simple fact that it is extremely durable and it cannot be damaged by scratching. You can cut on a granite countertop because it is so hard and durable.

-Granite comes in many different colors thanks to the composition and minerals within the rock. Colors range from pink to gray and black. There are no two slabs of granite that are alike, making each granite countertop something completely unique.

-Granite is found all over the world and is one of the most common minerals that can be found in the Earth. Some of the most common areas where granite is harvested include Brazil, Norway, India, Spain and the United States.

-Granite has been used for thousands of years. As far back as the Ancient Egyptians, granite has been harvested and used in a variety of structures, including pyramids in Egypt.

-Granite is a worry-free surface, requiring few special precautions. It is extremely durable, stain resistant and easy to care for. Hot pots and pans won’t damage the granite. Granite won’t chip, crack, or scratch under normal use. Granite is harder than your knife blade material so we recommend using a cutting board to protect your knives from becoming dull.

-A good rule of thumb is never using anything that you wouldn’t use on your hands. Simply use a mild soap and water for everyday cleanup. A sealer should be applied every 2 years. This can be done by the home owner and generally takes 15 minutes.

- Accurate measurements are crucial. We make sure to note details like appliance openings. Usually, these are sized­ precisely, so finished edges will need to be flush with the cabinet ends.

-The thickness of the backsplash needs to be account­ed for as well, to ensure that elements like faucets will fit between the sink and the backsplash.

-Most countertops will have at least one seam because the material typically comes in slabs that are less than 10 feet (3 meters) long. Whenever possible, seams will be made at well-supported areas of the cabinetry. Because there can be a slight difference in the thickness of two granite pieces, shims might be needed to ensure the tops are flush.

After these facts, call us for a free quote! You will be happy with the results!