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The purpose of this article is to articulate in convincing detail the characteristics of various types of eco-friendly countertops and to help you choose the one that best fits your lifestyle, budget, enlivens your bliss, and keeps you from getting ill. The list below is not exhaustive but represents the most popular types.

By using this information, you’ll avoid the irrational pitfalls of buying something just because everyone else has one or just because of the color. There is much more to choosing a countertop, as you will soon see.

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Q: What are the best green products to use when repainting kitchen cabinets? The cabinets are being stripped first because they've been painted several times.
—Asked by Angela Gill, Columbus, OH

A: That's a simple question, but the answer requires some basic info about strippers, paint and sealers.

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Q: Can butcher block kitchen wood countertops be permanently sealed (waterproofed) and safely? (Not with oils but a true waterproof seal?) The house is 112 years old. The countertops were installed by the previous owners.
—Asked by Karen,Tacoma, WA

A: Repairability is the new sustainability.
Your question is a good one that requires a little background about sealers. There are basically two types of sealers: penetrating and topical. As the name suggests, a penetrating sealer soaks into the substrate (wood, concrete, etc.) and seals the pores from the inside. Once it cures, moisture cannot enter and thus you have a waterproof seal.

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10 rules for getting the most out of your relationship

Finding the right contractor can be daunting, like finding a doctor or lawyer or other professional you can trust with your life or your most valuable assets. When you hire a contractor, your money, home and health may all be at stake, so it is important to learn how to find someone you can trust.

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