First, let me address the repeats of my column, since you're an avid reader and noticed, as have many, that they see some columns more than once. The Herald editors are gracious enough not to can me every time I miss a deadline, so they desperately search their archives for a substitute. It has happened more lately due to my extreme workload and family obligations, and although I'm thankful for your understanding, and that of my editors, I still feel a little guilty when I have several letters to answer and professional obligations to fulfill. After doing this for almost 14 years now, I am deeply honored to be able to help people solve their problems and improve their lives, with few repeats.Now, about stainless steel. What are you planning to do, open a restaurant? Countertops for restaurants are generally made of stainless steel because they are anti-microbial, easy to clean, and meet Health Department standards. They are almost always custom-fabricated, or at least ordered to specific sizes, and are real workhorse surfaces in a professional kitchen. As expensive as it is, stainless steel is fabricated in varying grades of thickness, so you will need to be specific and not skimp. The material nicks and dents easily and will show scratches, water spots and fingerprints. On the bright side, it's great for serious cooking and is heat-proof as well.For a price, you can get anything you want, but if you're on a budget, you may want to consider how much you really want to spend. If you plan to live in your home for a long time, the investment is spread out for many years, and so can be rationalized as a worthy one. The countertop in a kitchen should usually comprise about 10 to 15 percent of the budget, based on how it fits financially and aesthetically. All that aside, follow your heart and select what you like. Stainless looks great for years, and as long as you don't mind that your kitchen will look like a real down-home surgical suite ready for either carving the turkey or just doing a simple heart bypass, you'll be happy for years to come. Just remember that most guests in your home end up in the kitchen, leaning against things and touching the materials. Offer them disposable plastic gloves at the front door, as a lovely souvenir, so that in addition to getting some help with the dishes before they all leave, you're not stuck wiping down all the stainless steel where fingerprints remain. Best of luck with your new kitchen, and thanks for enjoying the repeats!Readers are encouraged to send questions to: HERALD Homes, 379 Central Avenue, P.O. Box 220, Lawrence, N.Y. 11559-0220Attn: Monte Leeper, architect.
