Soapstone has been used for centuries and in the past 10 years or so, it has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity. It is appropriate for both period and traditional interiors as well as contemporary. Soapstone is truly unique in the realm of natural stone. It is a metamorphic rock comprised primarily of mineral talc. It is softer than granite and scratches easily but it is also less brittle and the scratches will blend in as the stone wears. Part of the beauty of soapstone is the gently worn patina it acquires over the years. Small scratches can be sanded away and large gouges can be repaired by a professional stone service. It is inert to acids and alkalis and is so dense, it doesn’t stain like marble. Sealers are unnecessary. Soapstone Characteristics The only maintenance required … [Read more...] about Soapstone Countertops
The Dishwasher Blues (or Crusty Whites)
Have you been noticing your dishwasher isn’t performing as well as it once did? You are not alone. Due to the banning of phosphates in dishwashing detergent (except for commercial use) in an additional 17 states this past year, most detergent manufacturers have eliminated phosphates altogether. This, coupled with the EPA mandated guidelines for water restrictions on dishwashers, has resulted in crusty white build-up in the dishwashers, not so clean dishes and cloudy glassware. We hope that the manufacturers will be able to improve on the currently available products, but until then here is some helpful info to improve the performance of your dishwasher. Consumer Reports has rated (out of 100 possible points) the following phosphate free products as the best available: Finish … [Read more...] about The Dishwasher Blues (or Crusty Whites)
Kitchen Floors
The selection of Kitchen floor covering for our period homes is always a challenge-we want style and durability, as well as a floor that fits in with the architecture and period of our house. Many of our homes have the original wood floor-either Douglas fir or oak strip. If the wood is in good condition it can be repaired and refinished. If you have an active household and worry about the upkeep of wood, linoleum is a good alternative for you. I am speaking of genuine linoleum, not vinyl flooring. Linoleum has been in use for over 100 years. It was originally patented in 1860. It is made from linseed oil, rosins (from pine trees) and wood flour, all of which are readily renewable natural resources, which are calendered onto a natural jute backing. Linoleum fell out of favor with the … [Read more...] about Kitchen Floors
