Monday, February 1, 2010
Natural Stone Sinks are a great option for today's Modern Atlanta Kitchen
Natural stone is already known as a classic material for use on the countertops of today’s kitchens and bathrooms. Now natural stone is turning a very utilitarian object - the sink - into a piece of art.
The new stone sinks that are available on the market are not really “new” at all. Stones had been used for sinks for hundreds of years. So why has the stone sink be recently re-discovered?
First and foremost, stone sinks are used for aesthetic reason. Homeowners are often drawn to the seamless look of a sink that blends with the rest of the countertop. In order to meet the demand for this look, more and more stone fabricators are creating sinks of the same granite that has been crafted into countertops.
Beyond the aesthetics of stone sinks there are also practical benefits. Sinks that are created from stone slabs have unmatched flexibility of size. The sink can be fabricated to a custom dimension that suites the design of the space. This means that the kitchen or bath design does not have to be limited to accommodate the standard sink sized that most sink manufacturers offer.
In addition to flexibility of size, stone sinks also boast the ability to add custom features. Drain boards can be carved into the countertop, which enables liquid to flow directly into the sink. Custom depths can be created. The number of dividers in the sink can be altered, so a sink can be long and trough-like or divided into separate sections. The sinks can also be customized to accommodate a cutting board that fits over the sink. Custom faucetry can be worked into the stone sink design simply by drilling a hole into the sink to accommodate the faucet. Stone sinks can be installed as “undermount” sink or can feature a traditional apron front.
The popular “vessel” sink is being interpreted using natural stone including granite, marble, limestone, travertine, onyx and soapstone. Along with the many stone options now available, there are also several options for how to install vessel sinks. The sink can be set into the countertop so that only a small amount of the top edge of the sink is visible. Or it can “sit” on top of the countertop to show off the entire bowl-shape of the vessel. The vessel can also hang from brackets on the wall to accommodate wall-mounted faucetry. A stone vessel sink can be placed on a stone pedestal, making it an option to replace the traditional porcelain pedestal sink.
Natural stone sinks combine flexibility in size, shape and color with the strength and beauty that has made stone countertops a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms.
The intrinsic beauty of a stone sink is enhanced by the fact that no two sinks will ever be exactly alike. This fact alone makes selecting a stone sink an artful, natural choice.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Granite Atlanta by G&L Marble
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Granite Atlanta is by G&L Marble,which owns and operates nine granite quarries in Namibia, Africa, along with a processing factory in South Africa. The quarries produce approximately 25 color selections that are processed into slabs and tiles at various factories and distributed throughout Atlanta and all of Georgia. These colors can be seen in our showroom on Armour Drive in Atlanta.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
So what is so special about granite?
Do you have a favorite place in the world? Maybe you've been there. Maybe you're from there. Maybe it's the state you live in. When you select granite for your home, you have the opportunity to express yourself. Through history or geography or just feeling passionate about the colors themselves, granite can be your keepsake of a place that holds true to yourself.
Granite's hardness and porosity vary depending on the region from which it hails. Some are very hard and dense and some are not as hard and are more porous. When you apply a penetrating repellent known as a 'sealer', the pours of the granite absorb the liquid which in turn repels food and liquids from penetrating the stone. This is as easy to do as applying furniture polish to your wood. It does not coat the stone, it is absorbed by it. This is the only 'maintenance' required for your granite countertops. The hardness of your granite and the type of repellent you choose will determine if you need to seal your stone once a year, every 5 years, or anything in between. Sealers are available through any stone professional or retail store specializing in stone.
Granite slabs come from blocks that when excavated from the earth are cut into either a 2cm (3/4') or 3cm (1 '') thickness. Since the blocks usually range from 7' in length to 11' in length, the slabs sizes will range as well. If seams are an issue for you, keep that in mind when you make your slab selection. Good fabricators and installers are craftsmen. Often times the seams or joints are so tight they are difficult to notice. Often the movement in the stone overshadows the seam, and often the slabs will be large enough that a seam or joint is not required. Not all fabricators are craftsmen, so ask for references.
There are literally hundreds of granite colors to choose from. The prices are as varied as the colors. Availability, color, and country of origin are major factors that affect the price of granite. The natural movement, colors, and crystals of granite are properties that even though attempted, can be unmatched by any man made surface.
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For hundreds of unique and beautiful selections of granite and natural stone, visit Natural Stone Atlanta ; info@naturalstoneatlanta.com ; 404-592-5597
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Which is better: NATURAL STONE VS. MANMADE MATERIALS for countertops?
The fact is many people don't select granite for their countertops. Many choose man made surfaces known as "Solid Surface" such as Corian, Gibraltar, and Surrell which are actually plastics. These materials will scratch, but because they are so soft, you can repair them by sanding the surface. However, over time repeated sanding will dish your countertops. When considering Solid Surface keep these things in mind:
-There are about 125 different colors to choose from.
-Solid Surface will burn. You cannot move a hot pot directly from the oven or stove on to your countertop.
-Because it is a softer material, you may save a glass or two.
-This is the only material that appears seamless. The seams will be less noticeable than either granite or engineered stone.
-It will stain. However, abrasive cleaners should be able to remove most stains.
-The seams will be less noticeable than either granite or engineered stone.
-Available in a matte finish only.
-Solid surface will not harbor bacteria; bacteria do not eat plastic.
-Cost: Low end is $35-50 per square foot, and can run up to $85 per square foot.
There is another manmade countertop surface known as "Engineered Stone." These products include Cambria, Zodiaq, and Silestone, to name a few. Engineered Stone is a resin-based quartz material manufactured to imitate natural stone. Each manufacturer of engineered stone produces their own color pallet of approximately 35 colors. When
considering Engineered Stone for your countertops keep these things in mind:
-Engineered stone is harder than plastic, however it can scratch.
-Seams are more evident than solid surface (if seams are an issue for you)
-It has a stain resistant surface.
-Because it is harder than plastic, it may cost you to replace a glass or two.
-Because it is a resin based material, a hot pot directly from your oven or burners will affect this material. You should let your pan cool for few minutes before placing on countertop.
-Available in matte and semi-gloss finishes.
-Engineered stone will not harbor bacteria; bacteria do not eat resin.
-Cost: Low end is $45-60 per square foot, and can run up to $100 per square foot.
Granite is a natural product. There are approximately 400 different granite colors from which to choose. When considering natural granite for you countertops consider this:
-Granite will not burn. You can set pots directly from your oven or stove onto your countertops.
-Since it is the hardest surface, you may have to replace a glass or two.
-It is not a high maintenance product. It only requires sealing every 1-5 years, which makes it a stain resistant surface.
-Spots that occur from food and liquid can be removed. There are products on the market specifically to do just that. Available at stone specialty stores and from any stone professional.
-Granite in a kitchen application will not scratch (the only things harder than granite are not typically found in a kitchen).
-Available in polished, honed, brushed and antique finishes.
-Granite does not harbor bacteria; bacteria do not eat stone.
-Cost: Low end is $40-65 per square foot, with special pricing sometimes going down to $30 range. High end is $75-100 per square foot. Exotics $100 and up.
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Granite Atlanta ; info@graniteatlanta.net ; 404-592-5597
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
How to install flooring slate
Before you begin grouting slate tiles & only when the adhesive is fully dried should you consider the next phase, if you do not let the adhesive dry fully you may experience lifting of your slate floor tiles after installation, they must fully bed & the adhesive must cure/dry properly.
Before Grouting
Clean The Slate First
It is advisable at this stage to remove any debris or adhesive that may have oozed up between the grout joints or been left on the surface.
You are now ready for the next phase of the installation but before you can begin grouting slate tiles, you must first clean the floor & seal it. To do this you will need your bucket & large sponge
Begin by ¾ filling the bucket with clean luke warm water, then start from one end of the room wiping the surface of the tiles with a rinsed sponge, DO NOT saturate the floor. Depending on how dirty the slate tiles are I recommend that you wash out your bucket & get fresh clean water when it begins becoming dirty. Doing this enables you to have a nice fresh clean floor when the water has dried off the surface ready for you to seal your slate tiles.
You must now let the floor fully dry & I would recommend that you leave it overnight to dry at room temperature.
AN IMPORTANT TIP FOR YOU
If you have purchased Indian or Chinese Slate & especially Chinese Slate, make 100% sure that these tiles are fully dried before you seal them.
Ready For The First Seal
Your now need to get your small sponge roller & painters tray. Before grouting slate tiles you must seal them. So pour some sealer that you have been supplied with in to the painters tray & then lightly seal your slate tiles.
DO NOT over apply the sealer, try to spread it well with the roller, you should easily get 12 – 15m2 coverage for every 1 litre of sealer that you have, if it is over applied you will be left with blotches, so spread it evenly over the tiles but not to thick.
By sealing your slate tiles you are blocking the pours of the stone, this will then enable the grout to float over the pin head sized holes on the stone & not stick within the pours, the grout should now be easily removed when it is applied & you are now ready for grouting slate tiles.
A Tip For You
All natural slate or stone needs to be sealed, do not try to save a few pounds/dollars by cutting corners & not sealing your slate tiles prior to grouting slate tiles, you will be left with a hazy mist on the surface & you will find it practically impossible to remove, (TRUST ME, I HAVE SEEN IT HAPPEN).
Grouting Slate Tiles
Now the sealer has dried you are ready to grout your slate floor, you will need a clean bucket, fresh water & your chosen device for mixing. Read the grout manufacturers label prior to mixing any grout.
Mix a small amount of grout in the bucket for your first attempt, it is better to mix to little than to much on the first attempt as you will get a feel for how much water you will need for your second attempt at grouting slate tiles.
A Tip For You
I am assuming you are a beginner at this so I would suggest that you aim to work on 8 – 10m2 at a time, between grouting & cleaning.
“Why? I want to do the whole floor in one go”, you say.
Because if you are grouting slate tiles by yourself, you will need to clean/wipe off as you go along, you cannot grout a whole floor in one pass, by the time you get to the opposite end your starting area will be drying & the grout is a pig to remove if you leave it on the surface for to long.
How To Grout
Apply the grout with your rubber float (as shown in Part 1 “Slate Flooring Installation”) along the grout lines, it is best to grout across the grout lines on a diagonal ensuring that the grout is well pushed in to the grout joints. By pushing the grout in to the grout joints you are removing any air that may be trapped, the air can cause hollows that can render the grout lines weak in places & may over time pop out if the grout is not applied correctly.
Remove as much excess grout as possible with your rubber float as you go, you will find it much easier to clean if you do this.
Now you have grouted 8 – 10m2, get a clean bucket of luke warm water & a clean sponge & start as soon as possible to clean the grout off the tiles, ring out the sponge before you wipe, do not saturate the tiles with water, it is best to wipe once then turn your sponge over to wipe with the other side, then rinse.
Use clean water for every 8 – 10m2 you grout, if your water becomes to contaminated with excess grout you will be forever cleaning.
A Tip For You
When cleaning the tiles, wipe over the grout joints on a diagonal, do not follow the grout lines with your sponge, you will remove grout from within your grout joints, lightly wiping the slate tiles on a diagonal causes you to keep almost level with the top of the tile.
Make sure you have removed all grout & stubborn clumps on the first clean, when you have cleaned the floor once this way, clean out your bucket & sponge ready for the next pass.
Repeat the grouting process until all the floor is grouted & cleaned as described above.
I now suggest you clean the whole floor again with fresh clean water & a clean sponge, I know it is hard work & you are tired but you will thank me if you do, the cleaner the floor the better it will look on the next phase of the installation process.
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Floor tile specials at Floor Atlanta
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info@flooratlanta.com
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Granite versus Radon
Solid Surface, The Journal of the Solid Surface Industry (Volume 1 Number 1) that was published several weeks ago, included an article entitled "Granite & Radon". The introduction to the article stated "Scientific research poses disturbing questions about the safety of granite countertops" and copies of this article have circulated around the stone industry raising questions about radon gas emissions from granite countertops. The key advertisers in this journal were Corian and Formica.
The MIA has called upon several of the country's leading scientists in geology and geochemistry to assist in preparing a response to the allegations in this article that radon gas emissions from granite countertops may be hazardous. On reading the article, our consultants reacted with such comments as "ludicrous", "a fabulous collage of nonsense", "politically motivated", "unethical", and "bizarre".
Donald Langmuir, PhD, Professor Emeritus of Chemistry and Geochemistry at the Colorado School of Mines and President of Hydrochemical Systems Corp., both in Golden, Colorado, has prepared a response on behalf of the Marble Institute of America that evaluates and refutes these allegations. His report appears in full in this Special Bulletin. Dr. Langmuir received his BA (with honors), and his MA and PhD degrees in geochemistry from Harvard University. He served as a geochemist with the Ground Water Branch of the U.S. Geological Survey's Water Resources Division and subsequently taught and conducted research for 11 years at Pennsylvania State University, with temporary appointments at Rutgers University, the Nevada Desert Research Institute, and the University of Sidney, Australia. Dr. Langmuir has been a full professor at the Colorado School of Mines since 1978.
In addition to working with Dr. Langmuir and other scientists, the MIA staff also talked with the major U.S. granite quarriers and producers about the issue of radon emissions from granite. These companies have certainly not ignored the issue and several have had radon testing performed on their granites. The research done for these companies have shown that actual levels of radon gas emissions from granites are so low as to be insignificant and generally represent no threat to the health and well-being of people who live or work in buildings with granite countertops, floor or wall tiles, furniture or any other furnishings made from granite.
Marbles, limestones and stones other than granites are of such mineral composition that they generally do not contain measurable quantities of radon-producing material. In terms of building materials, radon emissions from concrete, cement and gypsum could be of greater concern.
What is Radon?
Radon is a naturally occurring gas generated by the decay of trace amounts of uranium found in the earth's crust throughout the world. It is an unstable gas that quickly breaks down and dissipates in the air.
Radon is measured in units called picocuries per liter (pCi/L). A picocurie is one trillionth (10 -12) of a curie, which is the amount of radioactivity emitted by a gram of radium. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established 4 pCi/L as the standard for indoor air; 20 pCi/L represents the maximum amount of exposure to radium that is now allowed by U.S. regulations.
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Great pricing and selection at Granite Atlanta
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Friday, July 31, 2009
Natural Stone Floor Warming Systems
Some easy solutions to this for many natural stone flooring owners include wearing a warm pair of socks or house slippers, or strategically placing about several throw rugs.
However, some homeowners with stone flooring are taking it a further step by installing a radiant sub floor heating system. Such a system consists of a series of “warming blanket” mats which are set just beneath the tile, resting on the sub floor. These mats contain electric resistance wires, which are hooked up to a 120 volt GFCI circuit.
Using an attendant thermostat, homeowners can adjust the amount of heat that is radiated throughout the floor.
Installation of a sub floor warming system is easiest if performed during the initial tile installation. This is because often the tile is adhered directly to the warming mats, to ensure that the system is as efficient at heat distribution as possible.
The heating pads should be installed directly onto a concrete subfloor. If the home has a wooden sub floor, it may be necessary to install cement board over this before installing the sub floor warming system.
Often, a small heating system can be wired directly into an existing GFCI circuit. However, if the total area being warmed is large or if the particular tile thickness requires more warming heat output, it may be necessary to install a dedicated circuit for the sub floor heating element.
A very important safety aspect for these systems is to be sure that the installer performs resistance checks on all of the wires to ensure these wires were manufactured properly and were not damaged during shipping. Installers should also follow any manufacturers instructions regarding power limits, installation, and use.
Some summary notes on the sub floor heating system for natural stone floors:
- sub floor heating system is not used as sole source of heat in rooms
- usually made up of a series of flat mats with electric resistance wires; mats warm up, and send heat through the stone floor tiles
- mats usually wired to a 120 volt GFCI circuit
- adjustable thermostat controls the heat
- mats laid over a concrete sub floor, do not install heating mats directly on wood sub floor
- adhesive added to mats to adhere to cement sub floor, then these are thinset to the tile placed on top
- perform a resistance check on the heating wires to ensure that they were properly manufactured, and weren’t damaged during shipping
- the size of the installation determines whether the system needs to be hooked to a dedicated GFCI circuit, or if it can patch into an existing one.
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info@flooratlanta.com
678.391.9147
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Granite Countertops - Lasting Beauty
Granite countertops for kitchens are a popular choice among homeowners nowadays. Durable, beautiful and competitively-priced, these countertops make every kitchen look like no expense was spared in their construction.
What makes granite such a great choice for that countertop? The explanation comes from the fact that granite is a special kind of rock. That is also why it is so durable that it takes only two things to break or cut it - another piece of granite or diamonds! Often massive in size, granite's hardness or toughness has made it a widely-used material in constructing high-rise buildings. Imagine using the same material for your own kitchen!
Granite countertops are a practical choice for everyone. Not only is it durable, but it is also lasting. Since granite is made of several kinds of minerals, it is heat-resistant. It can withstand hot pots and pans you put on top of it and it won't even be damaged. It won't even get chipped or cracked unless you drop a massive slab of concrete on top of it. It will even look as good as when it was first installed despite the years of use. It is also highly-scratch resistant and can endure daily wear and tear without showing change.
Since granite can be classified as impervious to water, it is less absorbent than some plastic surface products. Even if that glass of milk or even any other kind of liquid is spilled on the surface, it will be easily wiped off. There won't even be any stains left unless you leave it. When water is soaked by the granite, it will evaporate, often in just a few minutes.
Cleaning is not a problem with this type of countertop. All you have to do is to routinely clean it with mild soap and water. You can also apply a penetrating sealant to make your countertop even more stain resistant. It requires only fifteen minutes of your time each year.
Granite countertops are impressive-looking because each slab of granite is uniquely beautiful. It has textures that range from medium to coarse and can have a pink to gray or even black color. There are many styles and colors to choose from so it won't really be difficult to find that perfect one for your kitchen countertop. To avoid being overwhelmed with the variety of choices, you can consult an interior designer or go to your local granite countertop dealer for ideas on what would best suit you and your kitchen.
Granite countertops even have a variety of looks. Based on the finishes, you can choose one with a matte finish or with a textured one. They even come in colors like pink and green!
Many people would hesitate in having granite countertops installed in their kitchens because they think these are quite expensive. The truth is that these are priced competitively. Actually, when you will compare the price of granite countertops to the price of other high-end surfaces, you would be surprised. Nothing would match the practicality and lasting beauty of a granite countertop.
(by Buddy Harrell)
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American mahogany granite Counter-tops.
Granite Counter-tops are offered at the same price,
or sometimes less than man-made products.
info@granitecountertopatlanta.com
678-391-9147
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Saturday, April 18, 2009
Slate Flooring - A Popular Flooring Choice
Slate tile flooring is a popular choice for homeowners because it can be used in nearly every room of the house, as well as outside. It also offers a natural slip-resistant surface in areas that are expected to get wet such as a kitchen or bathroom. Besides being a safe surface, slate tile flooring is also beautiful. It's no wonder this medium is so popular.
What is it?
Slate tile floors are a great choice for homeowners who are trying to make their homes more environmentally friendly. They are a natural stone product that is durable and will provide beauty for years to come. Add in the fact that they help reduce slipping and are stain resistant, and they may be the perfect choice.
Choosing the Right Flooring
Choosing the right flooring can be a fun activity, if you let it. When you start looking at local do-it-yourself stores, go prepared with swatches or photographs. This will enable you to choose tiles that match your decor. If possible, go to the home improvement or flooring store to visually see and compare tiles.
How Much Does it Cost?
As with any other type of flooring you may be considering, the prices will vary. You can expect to spend at least $2 per square foot. If you're having the tile professionally installed, you'll probably need to add $5 or more per square foot to the price.
What are the Pros and Cons of Slate Flooring?
Slate tiles are similar to ceramic tiles in many ways. The advantages include being durable, naturally slip-resistant, and having a distinctive finish. The disadvantages include difficulty in maintaining grout between the tiles, and the grout not being as stain-resistant as the tiles. Another disadvantage is that it doesn't have any padding like carpet or rubber flooring.
Can I Install It Myself?
Choosing to install this flooring can reduce the cost of your new floor dramatically. Start with a level, solid under-flooring. Get any tools you may need and then follow the manufacturer's instructions. You'll have a beautiful tile floor before you know it!
Caring for your floor
One of the easiest things you can do to keep your slate flooring beautiful is to take your shoes off at the door; shoes can grind in dirt. Dust mop the floors often and then clean the floor with a damp mop, using warm water. Be sure to follow manufacturer's instructions if you choose to seal the flooring.
Choosing a new floor after remodeling a room is a big step. Your floors are an important design element, and slate tile flooring may be the right choice for your home. With the variety of tiles available, a beautiful slate tile floor is something you'll love.
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Every month we feature natural stone flooring at deep discounts.
Featuring: Vermont Shadow grey Slate
We offer the absolute best prices for high quality natural stone flooring for
kitchens and baths. The featured stone is only available while supplies last.
info@slateatlanta.com
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Why Use Stone For Your Flooring?
Everybody wants his home to be well furnished not only for the sake that it will be pretty to show off to your colleagues but for the reason that you want it to be comfortable to you in relevance to your personality. There is a choice of a wide selection of materials to be used for your wall and house flooring. You can try out wood or a wide variety of ceramics. However there is a growing preference for stone because of its durability and timeless elegance. Granite, sandstone, granite, slate, limestone, and stone finishes are the commonly used to decorate homes.
Among these, natural limestone is the most preferred as it gives a more matt finish which suits the English home. Stone has traditionally been used for hundreds of years in English homes. It is common to see Georgian terraced houses in our great cities made from Portland Stone or fireplaces in rustic pubs made from Bath stone. Anyone who has been to the centre of London will have noticed the House of Commons which is made from Cotswold Stone sitting next to Westminster Abbey which is built of Portland stone. These materials have been quarried in this country since pre Roman times and it is a way of keeping a link with the past in current and contemporary buildings.
Natural limestone has the natural elegance and durability that fits designing not only a home but the most prestigious buildings. Most infamous buildings and homes are built from limestone. Aside from the elegance that natural limestone can give, this stone type can be polished, honed, brushed or antiqued. Moreover it signals individuality and luxury of style. Stone is also very durable and will be easy to maintain for any household. Stone can also be cut into cabochans to give the classic black and white hallway floors.
Unlike what most people believe, natural limestone varies in colour aside from the clean and common white colour depending on where it is quarried from. Common colours in the UK are the sandy golden colours of Lincoln, Cotswold and Bath. Also prevalent are Israeli stones and French materials. Of late Egyptian and Turkish stones have become more prevalent especially for use in bathrooms. Each of these materials have a different texture and detail.
It is now possible to age or antique stone to replicate the appearance of traditional flagstone floors. There is an entire industry in France which deals with reclaiming antique limestone and terracotta floors and importing them to the UK. In the UK reclamation is more difficult due to the level of preservation that exists on older buildings. It is also possible to stencil on stone and cut it to bespoke sizes for fireplaces, staircases etc which would add a touch of individuality to any project. Stone can also be used externally and is a practical material for any terrace / garden / patio. Due to the cost issues Indian sandstones are a particularly good choice for any external stone. However some people choose to use riven slate or other non slip materials.
(by Charles Margetts)
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WILD-WEST GREEN GRANITE KITCHEN COUNTER.
Incredible, rich colors.
info@granitecountertopatlanta.com
Granite Countertop Atlanta
Friday, March 27, 2009
From Granite Countertop Atlanta: New Home Sales Rise 4.7% in February
Sales of new one-family houses in February 2009 were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 337,000, according to estimates released jointly today by the U.S. Census Bureau and the Department of Housing and Urban Development. This is 4.7 percent (±18.3%)* above the revised January rate of 322,000, but is 41.1 percent (±7.9%) below the February 2008 estimate of 572,000.
The median sales price of new houses sold in February 2009 was $200,900; the average sales price was $251,000. The seasonally adjusted estimate of new houses for sale at the end of February was 330,000. This represents a supply of 12.2 months at the current sales rate.
(article from 123jump.com)
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
From Granite Countertops Atlanta: 10 Things You Can Do With Chicken
1. Have you tried steaming it? This is perfect for a quick meal for one or two. Put a boneless, skinless chicken breast into one of those zippered steaming bags that you can find in your grocery store. Sprinkle in a little seasoning salt, some fresh ground pepper and a couple Tablespoons of BBQ sauce. Zip the bag closed and give it a shake. Cook it according the directions on the steaming bag: about six minutes for a chicken breast.
Be careful when opening- it will be hot and steamy! You will be amazed at how tender and juicy the chicken is- in no time and NO mess!
2. Make your own gourmet pizza! Use Alfredo sauce, if you like or BBQ sauce add your chicken breast, some mozzarella and bake. Who needs take out?
3. Citrus chicken sandwich- Want a sandwich that looks gourmet and tastes that way too? Brush a chicken breast with oil and grill until done. Slice it horizontally and then toss it up with a squeeze of lime juice, some sour cream and a Tablespoon of sweet chili sauce. Serve it on a crusty roll with some crisp lettuce and spinach leaves.
4. Marinate boneless skinless chicken breasts overnight, covered with Italian dressing. These are best cooked on the grill, but you can broil them as well. Toss the extra dressing. Because of the dressing, this will tend to flare up if you aren't careful, so keep an eye on it. It's worth the trouble.
5. Make kabobs. Cube chicken breasts and skewer them with alternative chunks of peppers, onion and zucchini. Brush with olive oil, squeeze on some lemon juice and grill or broil.
6. Cube the chicken breast and stir fry in wok or skillet until starting to brown. Add a bag of frozen broccoli, cauliflower and carrots. Season with lemon pepper. Turn the heat to med-low and cover. Simmer for about 6 or 7 minutes, stirring once or twice, until veggies are done, but still firm. Serve it up!
7. Cut chicken breasts into small strips or cubes and brown. Add one can cheddar cheese soup and ½ cup salsa. Heat through and spoon ¼ cup of the mixture onto one-half of warmed, soft flour tortillas. Moisten the edge of tortilla, fold over and press down the edges to seal. Bake in 325° for about 5-7 minutes.
8. Add chicken breast and broccoli to creamy macaroni and cheese. This is best if you use the creamiest macaroni and cheese you can. Choose homemade, frozen or the shells and cheese brands.
9. For a Mediterranean style chicken flavor, mix diced cooked chicken with some plain yogurt and Greek-style seasoning mix. Serve this on a croissant or in a pita shell.
10. Fry chicken breasts lightly in olive oil. Add sliced onion, chopped red pepper, zucchini and a clove of garlic, diced or crushed. Fry for just a few minutes and add some dried basil and a can of chopped tomatoes. Cover and simmer 15 minutes. Take off the lid and simmer 5 minutes longer. Serve with rice.
(Christine Steendahl – Ezine @rticles)
Monday, March 16, 2009
Free admission Friday, March 20, 2009 to the Spring Atlanta Home Show 3
The 31st Annual Spring Atlanta Home Show is coming to its new location, the Cobb Galleria Centre, for three days only – March 20-22, 2009. On Friday, March 20, 2009, show your business card to the ticket taker at the front door and receive complimentary admission to the 31st Annual Spring Atlanta Home Show! This is Georgia’s longest running, largest and most highly attended consumer home improvement event.
Click here for complete details on this offer to Members of the Housing Trade.
Click here for complete show details, including the latest list of exhibitors.
31st Spring Atlanta Home Show
March 20-22, 2009
Cobb Galleria Centre
Two Galleria Parkway
Atlanta, GA 30339
www.AtlantaHomeShow.com
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Atlanta Granite Kitchen and Bath Backsplash Tiles

Kitchen backsplash tiles is not only used for floors, but also used on walls, as a backsplash or on countertops using specialty tiles with unique designs. Decorated ceramic tile backsplashes go with granite or carina countertops as well as tile.
Decorative kitchen tile can be used in countless number of ways in a tiled area. Most painted tiles are made of ceramic because of its extensive range of colors and designs. Kitchen tiles works especially well on a vertical surface, providing a durable surface that is resistant to stains and splashes. On vertical surfaces the grout is less subject to stains than on countertops. Kitchen tiles are also water resistant, making them advantageous for any kitchen counter. While kitchen tiles have many advantages you must be concerned about cleaning grout. Grout must be cleaned regularly or it will stain. Kitchen tiles can also chip and crack requiring replacement.
Granite Countertop Atlanta

Granite is next only to diamonds in stiffness. It is only the best work exterior obtainable. Its refined end will not wear off. Unlike marble, synthetic and laminate countertops, granite countertops will not blister, scratch or crack; and they are very stain challenging. Granite countertops can take a hot pot with no the use of a trivet. In addition, its cool elegant surface is perfect for rolling out pastry dough. Granite countertops are a gorgeous, durable and cost spirited solution for kitchens, baths and added residential applications or marketable applications.
All Granite and Marble business is the leader in production and setting up of natural stone countertops. This will provide customers with the highest quality of workmanship and stone while keeping products at reasonable. This granite counter tops offer a wide range of products related to natural stone fabrication. This made up designing floors, walls, indoors and outdoors, delivering the best excellence to your home - your bathroom, shower, tub, Jacuzzi. From kitchen countertops, through vanity tops, Jacuzzi and fireplace setting to full wall and floor paneling - these products forever made-up with the utmost precision and quality. You can install granite counter tops for bathrooms, kitchen, custom counter tops, Stone countertops, Soapstone countertops and more.
You can also find more info on Granite Tile Countertops and Marble Granite Tile. Kitchengranitecountertophelp.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Kitchen Granite Counter Top.
Granite Countertop Atlanta by G & L Marble delivers the finest in natural stone for granite kitchen counters through out Atlanta and Georgia. With over two-hundred varieties of granites alone in stock, there is a color appealing to any discriminating taste. Showrooms are conveniently located in Midtown Atlanta and Alpharetta.
Visit: Granite Countertop Atlanta to see a complete selection of our Product