Counter tops explained

Getting lost in all the choices for counter material? I will break down the Top 5 trendiest, most durable, and the easiest on your pocket. If you want to skip the descriptions here is my preference:

Top 5 Most Trendy
1. Marble
2. Quartz
3. Granite / Travertine
4. Concrete
5. Wood / Stainless

Top 5 Most Durable
1. Quartz
2. Granite
3. Travertine
4. Concrete
5. Soapstone

Top 5 Pocket Savers ($$$ to $)
1. Laminate
2. Tile
3. Recycled
4. Wood
5. Concrete

Notable Mention Material to Look for in upcoming applications: Vetrazzo

My Favorites

Quartz

Quartz - houzz.com

One of the more expensive materials, this option can really make your kitchen standout if you are going for the ultra high end look. Quartz is also the most durable, no need to seal it. Cut on it and place anything hot directly on the surface. Unlike many of the other materials quartz is engineered and not pulled out of the ground. 

Marble
Currently the trend in choices for material. Marble will scratch and chip easily. That being said it is more affordable than granite but I do not suggest cutting on the surface if you want it to last. With this type of material the waterfall counter top design for the high end applications is a must!

Marble - nwgranite.com

Vetrazzo

Vetrazzo - greenbuildingsupply.com

If you can afford the look it is a must have. Vetrazzo is the new green in counter tops. The material is just as strong as granite and only needs to be sealed once every 2 years. It is made from various types of recycled glass and bound by Portland cement. Vetrazzo has no harsh chemicals creating the true green counter top.

Service and the Community

The UN and Rotary

New York's Times Square

I recently attended UN Day with Rotary at the United Nations. Here most of the major leaders in Rotary joined together for common causes to learn and teach each other how to better Rotary and change to world. I arrived in New York City on the evening of Friday October 31st to attend dinner with the current Rotary International President in Chinatown. There were just under 200 in attendance, and I am certain by now the RI president knows me by name. Either way it was a great evening shared with so many like minded individuals. The following morning I arrived at the UN for our Rotary Day. With hundreds in attendance, I listened to numerous speakers talk about the continued efforts of Rotary with the fight against Polio and other diseases. Of the speakers some talked about youth in Rotary others talked about water, human trafficking and peace. At different points between sessions Rotarian's were given the opportunity to voice their concerns and ask questions. There were a number of UN representatives present that listened, commented and moderated the sessions.

I think it was clear the message for the weekend shows the extreme dedication of every Rotarian to make the world a better place. I am honored to be a part of such an amazing organization and look forward to attending next year to gain more ideas and continue the drive to make this a perfect world.

UN Conference Room

A Buyers Market

Washington DC, Alexandria and Annapolis Housing Market Conditions

   With more listings going on the market than sales being performed.  It makes sense that now is the time to buy your next home.  Take advantage of these low interest rates and have your pick out of all the homes available.

   If you are looking to sell use caution and do your homework to determine the market value of your home.  It is especially crucial in this type of market to not overprice your home.  Overpricing will turn the few potential buyers away from your home and sell your neighbors home.

www.PatrickDeLeonibus.com