I'm almost finished with a kitchen remodel due to a water leak. I got new cabinets and appliances, the granite was reused. I didn't care whether or not I kept the same backsplash but the insurance said it wasn't necessary to have it replaced. So when they installed my new cabinets, to make them level, they were running higher (above the bottom of the lowest tile) so they took off the lowest row of tile. They explained that once the granite was reinstalled, it wouldn't look right to put something back in that area because you'd see how it runs uphill (or downhill) so we tore off the entire backsplash. I just had the cheap white 3"x6" subway tile from lowes, and I like it so that's what I'm having done again. But I'm soooooo glad that we tore it all out and re-tiling the backsplash. It will look so much better. It's getting done tomorrow. I personally would rather have the backsplash redone than to go with the 3" piece. JMHO BTW the insurance paid for a new backsplash since the granite couldn't be installed exactly where it was before and I got $1100.00 for a $300 backsplash :)

Roger, This will be my last response because I think the issues have been resolved and everyone is moving on to greener pastures hopefully. I think we all reached out to kpaquette because she has had a number of unfortunate issues arise during this long distance remodel. Remodeling from far away is in and of itself a stressful process, but she has had several other problems and is also dealing with an ailing cat who is a beloved family pet so we wanted to reach out and give her a big internet hug. Most of us did also point out that the sink cut out was the responsibility of the cabinetmaker and she (OP) conceded that point fairly early on. That can be one of those things that gets lost in translation. I myself have had several things slip through the cracks and I'm here everyday, but between subs speaking to my husband and also to me, we sometimes fail to communicate everything to one another. All that said, I think it's nice that you wanted to set the record straight, and as a former sales/marketing person myself I think it's important to get both sides of a story out so that the reputation of your company isn't damaged. There are many glowing reports of Texiera on here so I don't really think there is much fear of that in your case. I did have to chuckle a bit when I read you were a commercial pilot, my husband is also a pilot and even attended the Navy's Test Pilot School. Pilots tend to be a breed among themselves...very much about setting things straight and staying within the letter of the law so to speak! I hope you don't take that as an insult, it was just something I might have guessed on my own had you not mentioned it! ;-) Kat :)

Question--will you really be able to get those Ann Sacks tiles delivered in three weeks? If not (my experience is that some of this stuff takes 4-6 weeks), maybe you could slow down--and wait until all the materials are in. I know what you mean, though b/c we are building and we want to get it all done at the same time so that once we are in, we are done! But, it might be worth just giving it some time. All of that being said, I think either of your choices will be wonderful. I would probably keep it neutral with either marble or cream/white subways.

raenjapan- We also were considering concrete countertops but things like improper aggregate ratios leading to cracking, splitting and bubbles scared us off. Plus the finishing is a lot more work, I think. I still want to do some concrete somewhere... maybe outdoors for a potting bench or barbecue or something. Also the amount of time in comparison is ridiculous. I still can't believe how quick it went. One weekend, and not even a full one for a small kitchen. colorfulaura- I also calculated the material at about $50 so it doesn't come terribly cheap. Are you saying you don't have any seams? If so, do it. We watched some of the videos here (Canadian Soapstone How Tos) and they were super helpful. Instead of the rubber mats though (which were surprisingly pricey) we just used criss crossed two by fours, being sure that all sides and under any cut were supported. As for hardness, there are harder and softer varieties and you can try to search the forum, but your best bet is to ask Florida Joshua or call M.Tiexera and ask them. They are the experts, I'm just a yokel DIYer.