• Kitchen counters take a lot of abuse; brighten your kitchen by redoing the counters.ceramic tile image by Karin Lau from Fotolia.com
  
  The kitchen is the heart of the home. If you spend a lot of time in the kitchen, you may see all of the minor or substantial imperfections on the counters. If a complicated kitchen remodel is not a viable option for you, consider other ways to change the appearance of your counters. With just a short time and a little effort, you can make some cosmetic changes to improve the overall appearance of your kitchen.
  
  

Polish

• Many issues with counters are solved by a simple polish to bring out the original finish. Regardless of the material they are made from, minor imperfections are masked and even removed by using the polish made for your counter. By polishing and buffing your counters regularly, you can extend the life of the counters. Before using any chemical, check the labels for instructions and warnings.
  
  

Tile

• Covering almost any counter with mosaic tile is remarkably easy. These tiles are usually in 1x1-foot sections. They consist of smaller tiles held together by a mesh backing, and each tile is just under 2x2 inches. Several other kinds of tiles are just as good to use, but these make for simpler installation. They will increase the height of the counter by the thickness of the tiles plus the thickness of the mastic, or tile adhesive. The cost of this solution differs from kitchen to kitchen. Ways to save money are to get tile on sale, and use every piece possible from tiles that got cut.
  
  

New Laminate

• You can attach a new laminate pattern or color over your existing counter without removing what is there. You must purchase the laminate sheeting, contact cement and have a jigsaw to make cuts. By re-laminating your counters, you give your entire kitchen a face lift without removing the majority of the appliances and fixtures. You can attach laminate to any smooth, flat surface with little trouble.
  
  

Stain

• If you have wooden counters, your options for remodeling the countertops increase. You already have the surface to tile, or you can attach a sheet of laminate. However, sanding and re-staining in a different color or finish allows you to remove any minor nicks and dents. You can also use this opportunity to seal your counters to protect them from water damage.
  
  

Corian

• Corian countertops are made of stone that looks and feels like granite or marble and comes in a variety of colors. To perk up these surfaces, clean them regularly with: soapy water, ammonia-based cleaners or solid surface cleaners. Water left to dry on Corian can leave a buildup, so dry completely after washing or cleaning a spill. Over time, the finish may dull. To restore the original finish, clean as usual, allow to dry and use a deep cleaner from DuPont (the maker or Corian Counters). For scratches, nicks or cuts, sand the area lightly with special sanding pads from DuPont. If you still do not like the look, contact a Corian dealer for a professional refinish.
  
  

Granite

• Granite is a durable surface for counters, but, after awhile, they may need some attention. Clean the counter regularly using stone soap. For more stubborn stains or areas, use hydrogen peroxide and ammonia directly on the stain. For oily stains or residue, make a paste of flour and hydrogen peroxide to apply to the counter. Cover the paste with plastic wrap, and leave for about 8 to 12 hours. Scrape the paste with a plastic spatula to prevent scratching. When caring for your counters, never use any abrasive materials like steel wool, scouring powders, bathroom cleaners, tub and tile cleaners or cleaners with lemon or orange to prevent etching.