Ask a lot of questions from the manufacturer, and of friends and family that recently purchased a product you're considering. Check consumer product reports. I also suggest that if you're talking to a flooring dealer, ask the manager for customers' names and phone numbers that have installed same product you're interested in and give them a call.

One of the most often asked question on my radio show was about the callers toilet not flushing right and what can they do. The big three-gallon water tank gushers are long gone and now we only have the 1.6 gallons of water to flush our toilets. Biggest complaint is the new toilets have to be flushed 2 and sometimes 3 times. Wow - this is really saving water isn’t it? Here’s a tip; I have been pleased with the manufacturer of the toilet "TOTO." It’s a reasonably priced unit and for the most part only takes one flush.

What about wood siding and facial boards? Are they on their way out? The high county area still prefers the real wood. However, before you build or replace your siding, check out Hardi-Plank and/or Cemplank fiber cement sidings and facial boards. These products are hot and sweeping the market on a national basis. Several local builders are starting to use them. HardiPlank and Cemplank look like wood when painted, won’t burn (which should be a big factor in our remote areas) and won’t split, crack or buckle due to the weather conditions. Some manufacturers even offer a lifetime warranty. Remember that you will have to paint or apply a paint stain, so the natural wood look is forfeited for product durability and a lifetime warranty.

Speaking of paint, one thing for sure that’s not hot, is cheap paint. Always buy the top-of-the-line paint. Don’t cut corners on paint quality. I have a real good interview in my radio archive at my web site on paint application and advice.

Slab granite counter tops are still hot nationally in the upper-end markets. However, the more affordable granite (12"x 12") tile granite is running a close race. Unfortunately the tile granite does not come with a bull nose trim so you either grind the outside edges or you apply a wood trim for the finished edge.

Another thing I like about the granite tile, if you break or crack a piece it’s nothing to fix. If you crack or break the slab granite counter top, you might be replacing the total section, and that’s expensive.

A tip I mentioned on my radio show was to be sure to save one full box of tile or granite for the counter tops and floor tiles. Tile gets discontinued all the time or they change the dye-lots, so for any repairs you will at least have some material on hand.

Plastic laminate manufacturers like Wilsonart International are bringing out new colors and designs this year for the counter tops. They even offer granite look-a-like at affordable prices. This seems to be hot.

More new product that are hot are the pre-cast fireplace surrounds and the culture stones. Pre-cast fireplaces look like real limestone fireplace surrounds, however they are less expensive and install for about 1/3 of the cost of real stone labor and material.

Back to the original question. "With all the choices how does one know what to buy and what not to buy?" The best tip again is to shop and research. Also feel free to email me your questions at neidner@txucom.nett I will be happy to give you my opinion on other product options that might save you some money.

Also if you’re embarking on a large remodeling project or building a new home, hire a good interior designer. A designer who listens to what you like in colors and designs and who will ask you a lot of questions about you and your family’s lifestyle. A designer who communicates with you and will offer suggestions if your colors are getting "off the chart" somewhat and will remind you to consider possible resale.