Caesarstone, Silestone are 3 that have "cement" like quartz tops. Silestone Cemento, Caesarstone Concrete & Sleek Concrete

Hi. I want to position a 50cm width microwave oven under the countertop but the kitchen designer has told me that it isn't safe with children having access to it there. I don't live with small children but they do visit my home. I'd rather not have it on the counter, as it takes up valuable space. Is there some regulation about this that I'm not aware of. I live in the ROI. Any advice, please?

what blue shade would work in North facing kitchen, with a strong warm toned hardwood maple floor? I'd like to pick warm blue that's isn't too on trend. Any advice on a budget counter top replacement please? I'm thinking with a dark blue, like F&B hague Blue, or lighter like stone blue or lighter again.... without being too grey looking. Any advice greatly appreciated. we're going to get it professionally sprayed and alot paint the tiles, probably a warm white.

I’ve had my oak counter tops 16 yrs and my kids have gone from toddlers to young adults in that time. I would have smashed every glass in the house with quartz, although I have it around the sink insert as wood would have been a disaster there. Keep the counter tops looking good with a light rub down with a cloth with oil every so often, especially if it looks as if it’s getting dry. We’ve rarely had scratches as it’s reasonably resilient, and only once did I have to gently rub a scratch out with fine sand paper. I use a small brush to clear up crumbs and that limits the number of times I’m wiping it down with a wet cloth throughout the day. Have plenty of mats at hand for hot cups and plates and clear up any spillages reasonably quickly - the oil will protect the surface to a degree but if a spill such as coffee or red wine is left it will eventually soak in and may be a problem to sand out. I was advised against a clear glaze painted on to the wood and I am glad now that I didn’t have it done. Hope this helps.