Countertop Contractor

Countertop Contractor

Finishing Up the Kitchen


Granite Countertops Still Top List of Home Improvements

(NewsUSA) - Despite the sputtering economy, consumer spending on home renovation remains healthy. Across the nation, homeowners are investing in home remodeling projects - especially kitchen makeovers - either to make their homes more appealing to buyers or more comfortable and enjoyable while they ride out the housing slump.

And one of the most popular home improvements is, once again, granite countertops.

A recent study of 10,000 consumers, conducted by the Research Institute for Cooking and Kitchen Intelligence, found that kitchen renovations remain at the top of the list for consumers seeking to add value to their homes. When the study asked homeowners, "If you were changing your kitchen now and had no budget constraints, what improvement would you make?" granite countertops were among the kitchen features they coveted most.

Many consumers are tightening their belts but remain eager for granite countertops, according to Garis Distelhorst, executive vice president of the Marble Institute of America, the nation's leading natural stone association.

"Historically, consumers recognize that granite countertops enhance the value of a home in ways few other improvements can," said Distelhorst. "No other countertop surface can measure up to granite in terms of practicality, timeless beauty, durability and safety. This natural stone has held its value in ways more trendy materials have not."

Consumers continue to invest confidently in kitchen makeovers because the projects typically increase the resale value of their homes. In the last five years, kitchen remodeling projects have generally returned 80 to 85 percent of consumers' investments, according to the "Cost versus Value Report" from Remodeling magazine.

Because kitchen renovations increase resale values, experts agree that if consumers can only afford to renovate one room in their homes, it should be the kitchen. In fact, an all-new kitchen "that looks great and is fun to work in" was the top priority of 2,200 home enthusiasts surveyed recently by Better Homes and Gardens magazine.

"What we've discovered is that the home continues to be our emotional center and the sweet spot of everyday life," said Gayle Butler, Better Home's editor in chief. "Economic uncertainty aside, we won't stop spending, improving and dreaming."

Panasonic NN-SN667W, 1.2cuft 1300 Watt Sensor Microwave Oven, White
Panasonic NN-SN667W, 1.2cuft 1300 Watt Sensor Microwave Oven, White
List Price: $149.99
Sale Price: $124.99
You save: $25.00 (17%)
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Description

1.2 cft, 1300 Watts of High Power, One-Touch Sensor Cooking/Reheat, Chrome 5 Button for easy progamming/use, Keep Warm/More-Less Control, Popcorn Key, Inverter Turbo Defrost, Quick Minute, White

Features

  • 1300-watt family-size microwave oven with 1-1/5-cubic-foot capacity
  • 13-1/2-inch turntable; 1-touch sensor cooking; keep warm
  • Inverter Turbo Defrost for even heating; 10 power levels
  • 5-button and flat-panel controls; 4-digit display; delay start; timer
  • Please note: upper-left corner of door has a small indentation to allow door to open smoothly
Vinotemp VT-6TEDS Thermo-Electric Digital 6-Bottle Wine Chiller, Black and Stainless
Vinotemp VT-6TEDS Thermo-Electric Digital 6-Bottle Wine Chiller, Black and Stainless
Sale Price: $149.00
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Description

Vinotemp VT-6TEDS Thermo Electric Digital Black w/Stainless Steel trim (6) Bottle wine chiller. This is our most compact table top wine cooler which stores 6 bottles of your favorite wine at just the right temperature. With the innovative thermo-electric cooling system, which involves very few moving parts, your wine will be protected from unneccessary vibration. More importantly, Thermo-electric cooling does not use ozone depleating chemicals such as CFC's or HCFC's so you will be sure that you are doing your part to preserve the environment. For increased enery efficiency, the VT-6 uses dual paned glass windows, a technology that has been proven in the construction industry. They have better insulation properties and better UV protection providing energy efficiency which will lead to less electricity usage and savings. Featuring a black cabinet with stainless steel door trim and handle and sturdy wire shelf racking for individual bottle storage.

Features

  • Freestanding digital wine chiller keeps up to 6 bottles properly chilled
  • Thermo-electric cooling system protects wine from unnecessary vibration
  • Ultra-quiet operation; does not use ozone-depleting chemicals
  • Energy-efficient dual-paned glass door; 2 pull-out shelves included
  • Measures 19-3/4 by 10-1/8 by 14-7/8 inches; 1-year limited warranty
SNFEMS5120W - 1.2 Cubic Foot Capacity 1000 Watt Countertop Microwave Oven
SNFEMS5120W - 1.2 Cubic Foot Capacity 1000 Watt Countertop Microwave Oven
List Price: $259.95
Sale Price: $102.44
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Description

Microwave is backed by 1,000 watts. Quick on key. Features rotating glass turntable and eight direct access keys for quick programming of popular food. Ten power levels allow you to find the right setting for a variety of foods. Defrost by weight or time. Equipped with child lockout to help prevent unwanted use or dangerous accidents. With easy-to-read digital display and a kitchen timer. Capacity (Volume): 1.200 cu. ft.; Material(s): N/A; Microwave Ovens Special Features: 1.2 Cu. Ft. Capacity; Turntable Diameter: 12 3/8 in.

Features

  • Capacity - 1000 W
  • Capacity (Volume) - 1.200 cu. ft.
  • Catalog Publishing Type - Microwave Ovens-Standard
  • Color(s) - White
  • Compliance, Standards - UL Listed
Kitchen Care: Hints for Cleaning That Flawless Brand-New Look - Marble, Tiles, Stainless Steel, Glass, Cabinets, Countertops, Microwaves...
Kitchen Care: Hints for Cleaning That Flawless Brand-New Look - Marble, Tiles, Stainless Steel, Glass, Cabinets, Countertops, Microwaves...
List Price: $2.99
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Description

Of the many parts of the home, the kitchen deserves a close attention. Although it is just one room, it is where at any given time you can find a family eating, working on homework, talking on the phone, or simply hanging out with buddies. So it’s no big surprise that the kitchen, as the centerpiece of the home, is also one of the dirtiest and toughest rooms to clean. Many experts have even said that not the bathroom bowl but the average kitchen sink contains the most concentrated combination of harmful microorganisms in the house. Now, isn’t it yucky?Well, getting a spotless kitchen can seem like an overwhelming task in the first place, but it doesn’t have to be. As what the former director of engineering for the Good Housekeeping Institute, Mark Kalinowski, once said, a clean kitchen can be attained if routine and streamlined tasks are performed in the kitchen on a regular basis. Every home owner or housekeeper can particularly achieve this by using time saving tactics, coupled with proper cleaning tools. These can no doubt significantly lessen the time spent completing the dreaded kitchen responsibilities.Now below is some of the most recommended time saving tips to ensure that the hub of your home will remain spotless. Just sit back, relax, and read on.Tips Before You CleanMake a Clean-Up ChecklistMost experts often recommend forming a clean-up checklist before you consider actual cleaning. According to them, this will help your kitchen shine. Well, one particular reason behind this idea is that taking stock of your cleaning needs and supplies before you start the task will make sure that you will have everything on hand and ready to go. So, consider mapping out the chores you want to accomplish as this will further help in keeping you organized, so nothing is overlooked.Teamwork is a Great IdeaWhy don’t you think teamwork? Yes, that’s it! Teamwork is also vital when considering kitchen or home cleaning in general. So you don’t have to do everything yourself, it is best to enlist the help of your family, including your children. It is worthy to note after all that a good work ethic can be easily learned at an early age. Moreover, it’s a great opportunity for you and your family to spend time together and get some work accomplished.Be OrganizedAlso, set aside a certain day every week to take care of the household chores that needs to be done. Having an organized system in fact will allow you more energy to sit back, relax and enjoy the time with your family and friends.Tips During CleaningGet MotivatedOne particular great idea here is to get motivated. I know that most of the time, you should restrict the limit of the number of distractions as you clean, but note that it is also necessary to use certain motivators that could pump up your cleaning routine. Speaking of motivators, why don’t you consider a bit of music? It’s great to work while music is on the air, right? Many experts in fact agree with me when it comes to setting up “music” as a cleaning motivator, as it can transform the drudgery of kitchen cleaning into an almost enjoyable experience. As you may know, one of the fastest and perhaps easiest ways to make the tedious duty of spring cleaning less taxing is to pop in a CD while doing your chores. You can even sing or dance with the beat of the music, and that’s enjoyable. Now, I’m motivated!

Makita PW5001C 4-Inch Hook and Loop Electronic Wet Stone Polisher
Makita PW5001C 4-Inch Hook and Loop Electronic Wet Stone Polisher
List Price: $482.20
Sale Price: $267.99
You save: $214.21 (44%)
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Description

The new Makita Wet Stone Polisher is precision engineered for a professional finish every time it makes contact with granite, marble, limestone and more. This polisher can tackle the most demanding polishing, sanding, shaping and light grinding jobs and is equipped with Soft Start Technology, Electronic Speed Control and a Variable Speed Dial range of 2,000 - 4,000 RPM. The PW5001C has without a doubt the performance, innovation and technology demanded by professionals. Don't settle for less when you can get it all with the Makita PW5001C Wet Stone Polisher.

Makita's 4-Inch Electronic Wet Stone Polisher is a favorite for professional stone work. The PW5001C combines 7.9 AMP power and variable speed control with optimum speed settings, soft start for smooth start-ups, and more. The result is a fast and powerful stone polisher with precision engineering for professional stone finish work..c26-caption {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;font-weight: bold;font-style: italic;}.c26-matrix1a {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #bcbec0;}.c26-matrix1b {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #a7a9ac;}.c26-matrix1h {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 11px;font-weight: bold;color: #ffffff;background-color: #008b97;text-align: center;}img.c26-border {border:1px black solid;}a.nodecoration {text-decoration: none}View largerPW5001C FeaturesPOWER - 7.9 AMP motor delivers 4,000 RPMPERFORMANCE - Speed dial for optimum speed control and setting (2,000 - 4,000 RPM)COMFORT - Soft Start for smooth start-upsCONTROL - Solid brass water feed valve for controlled rate of flowINCLUDES - Pad, side handle, head cover, front grip, wrenches and dust coverTool SpecificationsPolishing Disc4"No load speed2,000-4,000 RPMSpindle thread5/8" - 11 UNCAMPS7.9Overall length14-1/8"Net weight4.6 lbs.7.9 AMP Power with Variable Speed ControlThe PW5001C is powered by a 7.9 AMP motor with variable speed dial that provides optimum speed settings from 2,000-4,000 RPM. The electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load, and the soft start feature ensures smooth start-ups. It also includes a Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) plug, and an overload switch to protect from armature failure.Comfort and ErgonomicsThe PW5001C weighs just 4.6 pounds and is built with ease-of-use features for extended operation. The durable housing cover protects the industrial die cast aluminum gear housing. The common fitting accepts the most popular water hose connections, and the three holes at the spindle top evenly spread water to the pad and prevent the pad from clogging. A side handle is included.Versatile Design for a Range of ApplicationsMakita's PW5001C is precision engineered for professional stone polishing applications. The PW5001C is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.About Makita's Hook and Loop Accessories and AttachmentsMakita's 4-Inch Electronic Wet Stone Polisher is a favorite for professional stone work. The PW5001C combines 7.9 AMP power and variable speed control with optimum speed settings, soft start for smooth start-ups, and more. The result is a fast and powerful stone polisher with precision engineering for professional stone finish work.About MakitaMakita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.WarrantyEvery Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.What's in the BoxMakita PW5001C 4-Inch Electronic Wet Stone Polisher, rubber pad, side handle, head cover, wrenches, front grip and dust cover.

Features

  • High power-to-weight ratio (1.72) for reduced operator fatigue
  • 3 holes at the spindle top evenly spread water to the pad and prevents the pad from clogging
  • Includes a ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) plug
  • Overload switch to protect armature failure
  • One-year manufacturer's warranty
Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
Makita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch Angle Grinder
List Price: $259.60
Sale Price: $141.26
You save: $118.34 (46%)
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Description

Makita's 4-1/2-Inch SJS Angle Grinder combines 12 AMP variable speed power with comfort and motor-protection features for longer-lasting stone grinding and polishing performance. The 9564CV is engineered with Makita's innovative Super Joint System (SJS) to protect the gears for longer tool life..c26-caption {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;font-weight: bold;font-style: italic;}.c26-matrix1a {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #bcbec0;}.c26-matrix1b {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 10px;background-color: #a7a9ac;}.c26-matrix1h {font-family: Verdana, Helvetica neue, Arial, serif;font-size: 11px;font-weight: bold;color: #ffffff;background-color: #008b97;text-align: center;}img.c26-border {border:1px black solid;}a.nodecoration {text-decoration: none}View larger9564CV FeaturesPOWER - 12 AMP motor delivers 2,800 - 10,500 RPMPERFORMANCE - Super Joint System (SJS) helps prevent gear damageSPEED - Variable speed (2,800 - 10,500 RPM)DURABILITY - Labyrinth construction, zig-zag varnish and thicker coil wires for longer tool lifeINCLUDES - Grinding wheel, wheel guard, side handle, inner flange, lock-nut, and wrenchTool SpecificationsGrinding wheel4-1/2"Wire cup brush3-1/2"Sanding disc4-1/2"No load speed2,800-10,500 RPMSpindle thread5/8"-11 UNCAMPS12.0Vibration5.0 (m/s^2)Overall length11-3/4"Net weight4.0 lbs.12 AMP Power with SJS to Protect GearsThe 9564CV is powered by a 12 AMP motor with soft start for smoother start-ups. The five-stage variable speed dial (2,800 - 10,500 RPM) allows the user to match the RPM to the application. The electronic limiter stops the motor and reduces accidental motor overload and burnout, and the electronic speed control maintains consistent speed under load. Labyrinth construction protects the motor with a complex set of channels, prohibiting dust and contamination. In addition, the protective zig-zag varnish seals the motor and bearings from dust and debris by creating a barrier under rotation. The 9564CV is engineered with SJS, an innovation from Makita that protects the gears by automatically disengaging the motor should the grinding wheel accidentally catch or bind.Comfort and ErgonomicsThe 9564CV is built with comfort and ergonomic features for extended use. The grinder weighs just 4 pounds with a lock-on switch for easy operation. In addition, the side handle can be easily installed on either side of the tool, and the "tool-less" wheel guard adjustment provides easy clamping.Variable Speed for Stone WorkThe 9564CV is a versatile and powerful grinder with variable speed, allowing the user to set the RPM to the material. The variable speed control feature makes the 9564CV ideal for stone work, including polishing and grinding. The 9564CV is just another example of Makita's commitment to innovative technology and best-in-class engineering.About Makita's Super Joint System (SJS)Super Joint System (SJS) is an innovation from Makita engineering where the motor armature and spiral bevel gear are linked by a coil spring. If the grinding wheel catches or binds, the coil spring relaxes and disengages the gears from the motor. As the grinding wheel stops, the gears and motor are protected. Makita's growing line of SJS-equipped grinders includes models ranging from a 1/4" die grinder to a 7-inch angle grinder.About MakitaMakita is a worldwide manufacturer of industrial quality power tools and offers a wide range of industrial accessories. Makita applies leading-edge innovation to engineer power tools that are more compact and energy efficient, yet deliver industrial strength power and results. Makita U.S.A., Inc. is located in La Mirada, California, and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please call 800/4-MAKITA (800/462-5482) or visit makitatools.com. Makita is Best in Class Engineering.WarrantyEvery Makita tool is thoroughly inspected and tested before leaving the factory. If you are not satisfied with any Makita tool within 30 days of purchase, return it and Makita will provide a replacement or refund. Each Makita tool is warranted to be free of defects from workmanship and materials for the period of ONE YEAR from the date of original purchase. Should any trouble develop during this one-year period, return the COMPLETE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita's Factory or Authorized Service Centers. Please see makitatools.com for complete details.What's in the BoxMakita 9564CV 4-1/2-Inch 12 AMP Variable Speed SJS Angle Grinder, 4-1/2-inch grinding wheel, side handle, wheel guard, inner flange, lock nut and lock nut wrench.

Features

  • Powerful 12 AMP motor design for increased output power in a more compact tool
  • Super Joint System (SJS) helps prevent gear damage
  • 5 stage variable speed control dial for matching the RPM to the work
  • Electronic limiter stops the motor and reduces accidental motor overload and burnout
  • 1 year warranty
12-Count 19-LED Flashlight Counter-Top Display - Assorted Colors
12-Count 19-LED Flashlight Counter-Top Display - Assorted Colors
List Price: $239.88
Sale Price: $140.92
You save: $98.96 (41%)
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Description

12-count LED flashlights shipped in random colors. Counter-top display for retail sales . 19-LED flashlights generating over 20 lumens of light. Water- and shock-resistant housing. Perfect palm size design.

Features

  • 12-count LED flashlights shipped in random colors, Counter-top display for retail sales , 19-LED flashlights generating over 20 lumens of light, Water- and shock-resistant housing, Perfect palm size design
Panasonic NN-H965BF Luxury Full-Size 2.2-Cubic-Foot 1,250-Watt Microwave Oven, Black
Panasonic NN-H965BF Luxury Full-Size 2.2-Cubic-Foot 1,250-Watt Microwave Oven, Black
List Price: $199.99
Sale Price: $159.99
You save: $40.00 (20%)
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Description

Panasonic NN-H965BF Luxury full-size 2.2 cu.ft. 1250 Watt , Easy-to-use Button Control, Multi-Lingual Menu Action Screen, One-Touch Sensor Cooking (19 Categories), One-Touch Sensor Reheat, Inverter Turbo Defrost, Keep Warm , Popcorn Key, Quick Minute, More/Less Control (Black)

This gigantic microwave oven services the family that is constantly eating on the run but has gourmet tastes that go beyond packaged frozen dinners. It is true that the oven takes up a great deal of counter space (measurements are 23-7/8 by 14 by 19-7/16 inches) but much of that space can be attributed to the large interior capacity of 2.2 cubic feet, which can fit an entire meal. The oven operates on a powerful 1,250 watts for quicker cooking and defrosting and has a sleek black exterior that looks well in most kitchens. Most home chefs will find new and innovative features on this microwave that blow away the offerings on their previous models. To figure out the best way to cook a particular food, cooks can access step-by-step instructions on the Menu Action screen. The multi-lingual screen displays information in English, Spanish, or French on how to perform a function. Panasonic's One-Touch Sensor Cooking feature takes the guesswork out of microwave cooking by calculating cooking and reheating times automatically based on the amount of steam released. As part of Panasonic's Inverter Technology, the oven also incorporates a linear power control for even heat distribution so frozen macaroni and cheese doesn't get hot around the perimeter and remain cold in the center during cooking and frozen chicken breasts don't cook around the edges during defrosting. Another major innovation in microwave technology is a warming and simmering feature that delivers low-temperature heat to keep food such as pies, casseroles, or gravy warm without overcooking them. For cooks who are looking for a shortcut but don't want to sacrifice gourmet cooking, this microwave is an excellent option. This luxury microwave oven is covered by Panasonic under a one-year limited warranty while the Magnetron tube has an extended warranty of up to five years. --Cristina Vaamonde

Features

  • 1,250 watts of power for faster cooking, defrosting
  • Cooking sensor automatically adjusts power level, calculates reheating/cooking time
  • Linear power control for more even heating, defrosting, cooking
  • Multi-lingual menu action screen; large-capacity 2.2-cubic-foot interior
  • Please note: upper-left corner of door has a small indentation to allow door to open smoothly
Haier MWM0701TW 700 Watt Countertop Microwave, White
Haier MWM0701TW 700 Watt Countertop Microwave, White
List Price: $66.00
Sale Price: $49.99
You save: $16.01 (24%)
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Description

820-0582 DECORATIVE RAIN GAUGE - HEADWIND CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Features

  • 0.7 cu. ft. capacity with 700 watts of cooking power
  • 10 power levels with electronic touch controls
  • 8 one-touch menu buttons with automatic settings to cook certain foods
  • Weight and time defrost
  • 17" W x 10 3/16" H x 12 7/8" D, weighs 33.1 lbs.
Cold/Room Temperature Counter Top Water Dispenser
Cold/Room Temperature Counter Top Water Dispenser
List Price: $91.95
Sale Price: $48.03
You save: $43.92 (48%)
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Description

SAMSUNG MEGAPIXEL NETWORK CAMERA

Features

  • COLD/ROOM