HOME ABOUT PRODUCTS SERVICES PORTFOLIO BLOG CONTACT BY APPOINTMENT ONLY!!! Blog Top 10 Countertop Materials With exposure to water, heat, sharp knives, and more, countertops carry a heavy burden in the kitchen. Discover the pros and cons of each countertop material to help you make the right choice for your kitchen. Natural-Stone Kitchen Countertops Stone is a durable material that stands up to the tough wear of an active kitchen. Stone's natural variations in colors and textures make each countertop unique. The most popular stones are granite and marble, but limestone and soapstone are also commonly used. Natural Stone: Pros & Cons Pros: -Durable and long-lasting -Classic material that does not go out of style -Heat-resistant Cons: -Naturally porous and therefore needs to be sealed when installed -Requires regular maintenance and resealing for food safety and aesthetic upkeep -Softer stones, such as marble or limestone, might be chipped or cracked -Most expensive countertop material Cultured-Stone Kitchen Countertops Cultured-stone countertops, also… Read More Replacing Kitchen Countertops Before you replace kitchen countertops, take these factors into consideration to ensure you get a look you love and a material that works for your space and budget. How do you know when it's time to replace your kitchen countertops? Generally, it's time to upgrade when your countertops no longer match your design vision, are too difficult to maintain, and/or are damaged beyond repair. Stone or solid-surfacing countertops sporting deep cracks, pitted areas, and scorched marks are prime for replacing, as are badly stained and broken ceramic-tiled counters. Laminate countertops suffering from outdated colors or patterns, deep knife cuts, water damage, or staining might also need replacing. Before you go shopping, do your homework. Determine if your old countertops can be repaired or revived. If you need new countertops, shop with proper measurements in hand to help you estimate material costs. Have a good idea… Read More How to Design a Kitchen Island Size, seating height, all those appliance and storage options ... here's how to clear up the kitchen island confusion 1. What is the island's function? Before you start thinking about smart storage solutions and what range you want, decide what your island's main function is going to be. Most islands have a side devoted to cooking and a side devoted to eating, but what will your emphasis be? Prep work, cooking, cleaning, eating or entertaining? Or will you use it for everything, including homework and house projects? If you want appliances and sinks in your island, you'll need more space. If it will be used just for casual meals, seating should be your priority. "The discussion regarding a kitchen island is really just a small subset of issues which the overall kitchen design and surrounding space must resolve," says Ahmann. "In the overall scheme, what gets… Read More How Much Room Do You Need for a Kitchen Island? Installing an island can enhance your kitchen in many ways, and, with good planning, even smaller kitchens can benefit Kitchen islands are a much-sought-after feature — almost nine out of 10 of our kitchen design and installation firm’s clients ask about them in their first design meeting. A well-planned island layout can allow a smooth workflow and provide a comfortable space for preparing and cooking food. Islands also frequently provide space for dining, working and storage. But while a well-planned layout offers much enjoyment, a poorly planned island can be frustrating. This is particularly true if there is insufficient space for an island to begin with. If you’re considering a kitchen island, follow these tips to help you decide whether you have enough space to make an island work for you. And if you don’t, discover what else you can try. One size doesn’t fit all.… Read More Remodeling Regret: 5 Kitchen Layout Ideas to Avoid Make sure “It seemed like a good idea at the time,” doesn’t cross your lips after your remodel. It’s the day you’ve been dreaming of: It’s time to plan your kitchen remodel. Dream big, but make sure you’re not making mistakes that’ll cause you to regret the money you spent and the inconvenience you went through. What kitchen renovation decisions might you regret? Here are five. 1. Creating a Crowded Kitchen Your kitchen wish list might be long, but make sure you’re not trying to squeeze too much into the space you have. Installing an island? Make sure it’s surrounded by at least three feet of space on all sides. And make sure you can walk around your dishwasher, even when it’s fully open. If you’re not sure what will push your kitchen over the line from “full” to “stuffed,” the National Kitchen and Bath… Read More Home About Services Products Portfolio Blog FAQ Contact F-W-S COUNTERTOPS 610 N Illinois Ave Carbondale, IL 62901 Office: (618) 457-2326 Fax: (618)-529-1486 Follow Us F-W-S Countertops © 2019 Web Design by Highline Ideas