09

Sep

The Best Counter tops for Busy Kitchens

Your kitchen countertop plays a major role in enhancing and increasing the value of your property. The countertop you chose should increase the aesthetic value and functionality of your kitchen. Over time, even the most durable countertop will age, chip and scratch and will require a replacement. One of the easiest facelifts you can give your kitchen is a countertop replacement. If professionally done by the experts at the countertop replacement company, it will give your kitchen a whole new look and value. In this article, we look at the best countertop replacement material for busy kitchens.

Things to Consider When Replacing a Kitchen Countertop

  • The countertop in Use

It’s important that you consider the countertop in use and evaluate how effective it has been. You don’t want to replace a countertop with one that didn’t last long or didn’t serve the purpose. Choose a countertop that will serve the purpose and increase the appeal of your kitchen. The expert at the granite company will be able to advise you on what works for your kitchen

  • The Cabinets

Make sure the countertop material you want to use can be supported by the current cabinets. If you previously had a plastic laminate and you are planning on using a granite countertop, you may need to change the cabinets to make sure they don’t crumble under the weight of the countertop. Make sure the cabinets can support the additional weight if you are using stone countertops

Consider changing the cabinets if they can’t support the quartz or granite countertop that you intend to use.

  • The Plumbing System

Consider the impact the countertop change is going to have on your plumbing system. replacing a countertop will have an impact on the sink and the faucet. You may need to replace the countertop, sink and the faucet. It’s therefore important that you consider your budget before you take a plunge.

  •  The Backsplash

Replacing the countertop may also require you to change the backsplash. It’s important that the countertop you use,  match or complements the backsplash. As you budget for a granite countertop or engineered stone countertop considers adding the backsplash.

  • Appliances

Replacing a countertop may force you to change the appliances in your kitchen. Old appliances and a new kitchen countertop will look odd and out of place. consider changing the appliances in your kitchen to match the new standard the kitchen gains due to the new countertop.

  • Lighting

Before you replace the countertop consider the lighting you have in your kitchen. A new kitchen countertop may require additional lighting to match and give your kitchen that new look.

Replacing a countertop will change the look of any kitchen and it’s therefore important that you get the right color and material for your kitchen. In the next section, we look at the best countertops for busy kitchens.

Best Countertops for Busy Kitchen

Before you choose the material to use for your kitchen ensure that you speak to the quartz countertop dealers on what works best for you. Different countertop materials work in different spaces. The granite installer is able to assess and advise you on the best countertop for busy kitchens.

Quartz

What Makes Quartz Countertop ideal for Busy kitchens?

  • Requires less maintenance, making it ideal for very busy kitchens. Quartz doesn’t require sealing, and to keep it clean use mild soap and water.
  • It’s not affected by hot pots, knives, abrasive pads, and stains. However to ensure that the countertop retains the good looks make sure that you don’t place hot pots or cut directly. Take care of the countertop to ensure that it last longer.
  • Comes in a variety of colors and you can, therefore, match and complement with your kitchen cabinets and appliances. If you run a hotel a well-matched kitchen gives you a sense of style.

Disadvantages

  • The main disadvantages of quartz countertop may chip easily, and you will need a quartz installer to repair the damage.Granite

Should you use Granite in a busy Kitchen? The main advantages of granite are;

  • Sense of style

Granite is a natural stone which makes it unique. Granite countertops have rare colors

  • Heat and Stain resistant

Granite is heat and stain resistant and therefore ideal for busy kitchens

  • Easy to clean

Disadvantages

  • Granite requires constant resealing and it may not be ideal for very busy kitchens.

Engineered Stone Countertops

Advantages

  • Engineered stone countertops are heavy and easy to maintain. It’s almost impossible to fracture or chip making it ideal for large busy kitchens. To clean the countertop, use a cloth and wipe off the spill.
  • Stain Resistant

Countertops made of engineered stone are stain resistant.

Before you replace the kitchen talk to Quartz- granite countertop installers  Rockville and they will guide you on the best countertop for your kitchen. The quartz countertops dealers will be able to assess how busy your kitchen and recommend a countertop that is durable.

 

29

Aug

Reasons Why Should Use Quartz in Your Kitchen Countertop

When it comes to countertops you should consider using a quartz countertop. In this article, we tell you why we love quartz and why over the years quartz has become the ideal kitchen countertop for most people. Most people have over the years turned to quartz making it a trend and we can confidently say that they have made the right choice. We hope to convince that as you choose your kitchen countertop during that remodel that you will seriously consider using a quartz kitchen countertop.

How to Choose Kitchen Countertop

Before you settle for any countertop consider the following;

  • Cost

Get a quotation from the granite company on the various kitchen countertops available and choose the one that fits in your budget

  • Style

Granite countertop or quartz countertop, which one brings out your style. Choose the countertop that will bring out your style.

  • Where to use the countertop

Each material works well in different areas, talk to the quartz countertop dealers on the most suitable material for your workspace.

  • Maintenance

There are different maintenance practices for each countertop, choose the one that best suits your lifestyle. Granite countertops require constant resealing and may not be busy for high traffic areas.

Why We Love Quartz and Why You Should Join Us

Below are reasons why you should quartz countertop for your kitchen remodel

  • Low Maintenance

The kitchen is a key room in every home and if you are running a business, it’s definitely the core of your investment. Quartz doesn’t require constant sealing making it low maintenance and ideal for busy kitchens like in restaurants. You will not need to interrupt your busy schedule to seal, wax or polish your kitchen countertop. To keep the countertop clean, all you require is warm water and a mild detergent.

  • Stain Resistant

Quartz is stain resistant and you don’t have to worry every time liquid spills on your kitchen countertop. Use mild water and soap to clean off the spill and you don’t have to worry about the spill as the countertop is resistant to stains. You can be sure that your quartz kitchen countertop will be easy to clean and maintain

  • Heat resistant

Quartz is able to withstand heat to a higher and won’t crack in case of dramatic temperature changes. Although it’s advisable not place hot items on the countertop, quartz is able to withstand heat from pans without altering the beauty and appearance.

  • Patterns available for modern to the traditional style

The manufacturers are able to produce stones that mimic natural stone and its therefore ideal for a contemporary, traditional and a modern look and will give your kitchen the aesthetic appeal you want.

  • Non-Porous Nature

Quartz is nonporous in nature and therefore will not harbor any germs making it ideal for the kitchen. The hygienic nature of quartz makes it especially ideal in restaurants and high traffic kitchen and all you need to do is use a clean cloth, warm water, and soap to clean the countertop.

  • Variety of Colors

Quartz comes in a variety of colors, whether you want dramatic colors or soothing colors, making it the perfect choice for whichever color you want. Because Quartz is man-made there are easily customizable and thus they are available in more than 70 colors and you will definitely get the one that matches or complements your cabinets.

  • Durable

Once you remodel your kitchen you can be sure your quartz will last a lifetime. With proper care, a quartz countertop will last forever and you will not need to change your kitchen countertop.

  • Cost

Home remodeling can be an expensive affair and Quartz is less expensive and will give you value for your money.

While we don’t dispute the popularity of natural stones such as granite over the years Quartz countertops have become one of the trendiest countertops in the market. The color variety will help you style your space, whichever way you want and that makes it more ideal. The low maintenance, flexibility while designing and durability has made quartz catch up with granite countertops. Let the quartz installer Rockville do the installation work for a more and professional outcome. Choose colors that bring out style and give your kitchen space the much-deserved beauty and elegance.

19

Aug

How to Fix Problems with Kitchen Countertops

The kitchen countertop is a major investment and it’s important that whichever countertop you choose that it’s not bespeckled with scratches and black marks. The tiniest mark, scratches, stains or etches on your countertop means a drop in the value of the countertop and subsequently depreciation in your house value. It, therefore, goes without saying that you need to take utmost care of your Quartz kitchen countertop to keep it looking good for long. Most of the countertop problems can be avoided by simple maintenance practices and before you settle on any countertop ensure that it suits your kitchen and you are able to take care of the countertop.

Main Kitchen Countertop Problems

  • Rupture

A ruptured countertop result from installing the countertop in unlevelled surface or the adhesive used to bind the countertop was not given enough time to dry. A rapture could also result from placing a very heavy load on a small countertop.

  • Stains

The kitchen is one of the busiest places in the house and sometimes it gets messy. Liquids will often spill on the countertop and that may result in stains. Foods such as oil, the wine will occasionally spill on your quartz countertop or granite countertop resulting in stains. Red wine especially may cause the countertop to change to red color while water left for long on the countertop will make it dull. A lighter shade of countertops will stain easily from water than the darker ones.

Water-rich in minerals could also cause a build-up in the countertop resulting in a circular stain.

  • Scratches

Abrasive cleaning detergent or that sharp knife will result in scratches ruining your countertop

  • Etch Marks

Etch marks will make the granite countertop duller and this results from acidic chemicals. Some granite countertops minerals will dull if they come into contact with acidic detergents.

  • Cracks

Countertops will mostly crack on the edges when they lack enough support from below. It’s important to let the professionals from the granite company install your countertop. In case the cracks are in the middle its best to contact the granite installers as they will know how to repair a separating countertop without damaging it.

  • Wrong Design

Wrong countertop design is a common problem during remodels. You will find problems such as long or short countertops, wrong edge profile, horizontal surfaces which are no flat or wrong angles can be devastating.

How to Avoid and Fix the Main Countertop Problems

  • Cleaning the countertops

While cleaning the countertops ensure you use detergents with a neutral PH. Avoid acidic solutions such as lemon, vinegar, or any cleaner with acidic and harsh ingredients. Wipe any spills immediately especially if the spill is acidic to avoid staining the countertop. You can prevent stains by cleaning the countertop immediately. Ask your quartz countertop dealer for any cleaning ingredient specifically meant for the kind of countertop you have. Always place acidic foods in a plate when preparing them.

When removing stuck foods use a brush with soft bristles to remove the stuck dirt. Avoid abrasive scrubs as they will lead to scratches.

  • Use Cutting Boards to Protect the Countertops

Make sure you protect your countertop from scratches and etches by using cutting boards while cutting any foodstuff. Avoid cutting meat or any other when its directly placed on the countertop as that will result in scratches or even cracks. Some foods may contain acidic liquids that may stain your countertop.

  • Hire a Professional Installer

Make sure you the granite installer or quartz installer for a perfect professional installation. Avoid home DIY as that will result in losses and damage to your countertop. If you notice a rapture on your countertop let the granite installer asses it and advise on the best way to remedy the rapture. Make sure the countertop is installed by the expert from quartz countertop dealer to make sure the design is right.

Choose the most ideal countertop for your kitchen, one that can handle the kind of work that happens in your kitchen. With the right countertop, the right care and maintenance will help prevent most countertop problems. Talk to the Quartz-granite installers Rockville and they will advise you on how best to take care of your countertop. Develop routines on how to clean your worktops especially if you run a hotel. Let the experts at the granite company install the countertop for you to avoid any installation problems.

09

Aug

10 Quick Facts About Quartz Counter top

Quartz countertops are increasingly becoming popular among homeowners due to their stunning look. Quartz can be used as kitchen countertops or a bathroom vanity countertop material. Quartz kitchen countertop will give your kitchen a whole new amazing look and regal look and perk up the value of your house. In this post, we tell you facts about quartz that you should know and how it’s a good choice for your kitchen worktop and island. If you are planning a remodel and one of the countertop material you are considering is quartz, then you are in the right place, below are some insightful facts about the stone.

Facts About Quartz You Should Know

  • How Quartz is Made

Quartz is engineered in the factory and it’s made up of 95% natural quartz stones bound together by 5% polymer resins and color pigments. Some design of the countertop contains metallic flecks and recycled glass. Quartz is one of the hardest minerals and the result is a gorgeous, durable and eye-catching kitchen countertop.

  • Where to Buy Quartz Countertop and the cost

To get the price of the quartz countertop talk to the quartz countertop dealers and get a quotation and ensure that the quote is all-inclusive. Make sure there are no hidden charges on the quotation and if you have any queries the quartz contractor will be able to take you through the quotation and attend your concerns. The cost of the countertop will depend on the size of the counter you need, transport cost and installation cost. Make sure the quartz countertop dealer has a variety of colors that you can choose from and ensure that your kitchen looks gorgeous.

  • Color Variety

Quartz has a variety of colors available since the different color pigments can be added to the resin to bring out different colors. Modern quartz color looks like granite and is varied giving you a wide selection. Quartz can look as natural as possible with fewer color resins, and as bold and festive as you would want.

  • Where Else Can You Quartz Countertops apart from the kitchen?

Quartz will look amazing in your kitchen, but what other places can you use the countertop?. The countertop is a great choice for your bathroom as there are many styles you can choose from and it’s water-resistant and won’t require sealing. Its Mold resistant and that makes it ideal for the bathroom countertops. While quartz is durable, it’s sad to note that it may not work in an outdoor kitchen as it will fade due to the weather effects.

  • What is the difference between Quartz and Quartzite?

Quartzite is naturally occurring stone and its mined from the earth, cut and polished to make countertops. Quartzite requires sealing to avoid stains while quartz is an engineered stone made by mixing quartz with polymer resins and color pigments.

  • How to Maintain Quartz Countertop

Quartz countertops are easy to maintain as they don’t require constant sealing. The best way to maintain a quartz countertop is to clean it by using a mild soap and warm water. Dip a cloth in the water with soap and wipe off any dirt on the countertop. Avoid harsh cleaners and abrasive brush as that may damage the countertop. Quartz is stain resistant but don’t neglect the countertop. Clean any spills as soon to avoid forming marks on the countertop. Avoid cutting directly on the countertop as that may leave marks if too much force is being used. To remove any gum stuck on the countertop, use a gentle brush or a plastic scraper.

  • Difference Between Quartz and Granite

One of the main difference is that the granite countertop is made from natural stone while quartz is man-made. Quartz doesn’t require constant resealing as compared to granite making easier to maintain. Granite is ideal for outside countertops as it’s not affected by weather as compared to quartz.

Conclusion

Quartz is stain resistant and won’t scratch easily making it ideal for kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity for high traffic areas. Let the quartz countertop installers Rockville do the installation to give your kitchen or bathroom a professional look. If you are looking to remodel your kitchen or bathroom then you have a perfect fit in quartz, as it’s almost maintenance free and will last you a lifetime.

29

Jul

The Best Choices for Bathroom Vanity Top Material

Whether you are remodeling or you are looking for a way to make your bathroom more beautiful and functional there are different countertops material that will enable you to do exactly that. The bathroom vanity countertop you choose should be able to withstand soap, a lot of water, hair chemicals and treatments and liquids that have alcohol and any other element. If you already have a kitchen countertop then your journey to finding a perfect bathroom countertop may be easier as the same material used in the kitchen will work in the bathroom. Although there is less activity in the bathroom consider choosing a material that is less likely to scratch as there is a higher chance of scratching in the bathroom. The granite contractor or quartz Countertop dealer will be a good guide in helping you choose the best material depending on the functionality of your bathroom.

Factors to Consider While Choosing a Bathroom Vanity Countertop Material

  • Use of the Bathroom

Before you decide which material, you want to use in your bathroom, consider the number of people who are likely to use the bathroom. Is the bathroom for your restaurant employees or is it a small family bathroom? High traffic area will require a durable material while the family bathroom requires a material that will bring out the beauty of the bathroom. Depending on the number of users choose the material that can withstand the daily activity expected.

  • Budget

Different countertop material has a different cost, consider your budget and choose the material that fits right into your budget. The granite installers will be able to give a quotation for the various materials available. Ensure the quotation is inclusive of all the cost and choose one that is within your budget.

  • Durability

You want the material that will last longer and be able to withstand the bathroom activities without getting damaged. The granite company will be able to advise you on the best countertop material for your bathroom. It’s important to choose a countertop that will able to withstand hot shower splashes, soap, toothpaste, and toiletries.

  • Blending and Style

Choose a countertop material that will complement the floors and the bathroom cabinets. Choose the material that will bring a cohesive design. If it’s a children bathroom and you want to create a fun and warm place choose the material that will bring that out. Choosing the best bathroom countertop material, makes every day feels like that posh hotel you have always wanted to visit.

Best Choices for Bathroom Vanity Countertop Materials

Granite Countertops

Granite is the most popular material and is the number one material for kitchen and bathroom countertops. Granite is attractive and beautiful and available in a variety of colors, patterns, and styles. Each granite countertop has a unique hue and you may not find two granite hues that are same.in addition to the beauty, the countertop is durable and scratch resistant that makes it an ideal for your bathroom. If the curling iron or flat iron accidentally falls on the granite, there will no damage and that makes it ideal for your bathroom.

Quartz Countertop

Quartz is made of 93% natural quartz minerals bound together by resin. Its naturally waterproof and won’t require any sealing. Quartz is perfect for the bathroom as its durable and heat resistant. If you love a natural look quartz may not be the best choice for your bathroom.

Marble Countertops

Marble is a crystalline form of limestone and comes with a wide variety of colors. Its durable and can be polished but needs to be repeated often. Marble countertops may not work in a high traffic area since It requires resealing.

Solid Surface Countertops

The solid surface countertops or the engineered stone countertop are made from acrylic resin, quartz, and other crushed minerals and come in a range of colors, patterns, and styles. The engineered countertop material is the best material in areas with high traffics like hotels with a lot of employees. The solid surface is water resistant, and stain resistant and therefore ideal for a bathroom vanity.

Consult the expert at the granite company on the best countertop material for your bathroom. Involve the granite-Quartz countertop installers Rockville for the best outcome and you can be sure your vanity will bring out the beauty and ensure functionality.

19

Jul

How to Choose a Counter top Replacement Company

Your kitchen is the heart of every home and plays a crucial role. Its the room where people meet to eat, cook and have a good laugh and it’s therefore important that features and accessories that you install give it the regal effect. A lot happens in the kitchen and the kitchen countertop can take a beating from all this or even break in the process. To replace the countertop, you need to find a countertop replacement companies to perk up the value of your kitchen. Wondering how to pick out the best countertop replacement company? Keep it here for an in-depth analysis of how can choose the best team for the job.

How to Select the Best Kitchen Countertop

There are different kinds of kitchen countertop materials. They are;

  • Quartz Kitchen Countertops
  • Granite countertops
  • Engineered stone countertops

Below are the some of the factors you should consider when choosing a kitchen countertop

  • Budget

Different countertop materials have different cost and before you choose a material to visit the granite company and get a quote on different material. Make sure that the cost of the materials and installation is included in the quote. Choose the one that that fits in your budget.

  • Use of the Countertop

Consider the use of the countertop and the reason for replacement. If you are replacing a broken countertop due to a higher kitchen traffic consider choosing a countertop that can handle the high traffic. Granite countertops work well in high traffic areas and doesn’t fade from direct sunlight exposure. Your granite countertop installers will help you choose the one that is perfect for your kitchen.

  • Style

What style do you want your kitchen to have? Make sure the material you choose bring out the visual look you want. Granite countertops have a natural look and feel and their look is timeless.

Once you have chosen the kitchen countertop that suits you, its now time to choose your countertop replacement company.

How to Choose a Countertop Replacement Company

The installation company plays a major role in the final kitchen look and its imperative that you pick the right team. Below are tips to help you pick the right countertop installers.

  • Expertise and Experience

Visit several countertops replacement companies and get to meet the team. Ask questions to be able to gauge their expertise. Ask to see past projects and gauge how well they have been executed. Choose a team that is knowledgeable and a vast experience. Check and ensure they have the right credentials and if they belong to an accredited organization. Make sure the team has necessary knowledge on the countertop you have chosen. Interview several companies and choose one that has the required expertise.

  • Ask for Recommendations

Choose a company whose work you have verified and loved. Ask your friends and family for the recommendations of companies that fixed their granite countertops or Quartz countertops. Pick the best out of the pack.

  • Get a quotation

Ask for a quotation from the companies and choose the one that fits in your budget. It’s important that you ensure that you choose quality over price. Make sure the quotation you get includes all the costs involved and look out for any extra charges.

  • Choose a company with the necessary equipment

Hiring countertops cutting materials will increase the cost of the kitchen countertop. Make sure the company you pick has the right cutting materials and any other materials that are required during the replacement.

Review the quotations you have received and ask any questions that you may have. Choose the company that has the right level of expertise and skills to do a perfect job. If two have the same quality of the job, choose the one offering a lower price. Make sure you gather as much information as possible on the company you choose. The granite-quartz countertops installers Rockville you choose should have the knowledge and expertise to give your kitchen a regal finish.

Once you have settled on the company of choice sign the quotation and work contract. Arrange details on when the work will be done. Make a schedule and if possible be part of the installation process. Make sure you communicate your expectations to the team before and during the installation.

09

Jul

How to Choose a Vanity that Will Make Your Bathroom Stand Out

A bathroom vanity can help you make such bold statement and make your house stand out. The bathroom vanity will add value to your home and complement the style of your house. Its imperative that you choose one that is unique and gives your house a regal effect. The best place to start while choosing the vanity is at the granite companies as you will be able to meet an expert who will advise on the various aspect of a bathroom vanity. We give you expert advice on how to choose a bathroom vanity that looks good in your bathroom and suits your needs

Steps to Choosing the Bathroom Vanity

When choosing a bathroom vanity, consider the following;

  • Consider the use of the bathroom Vanity

It’s important to consider who will be using the vanity. When remodeling the bathroom it’s important to consider who the users of the bathroom are and how they will use and what they will place on the vanity. Get a design that works for you

  • Decide where the vanity will be placed

The plumbing will determine and dictate where the vanity will be placed. A wall mounted vanity may require extra works of plumbing. The floor mounted may use the previous plumbing structure.

  • Look out for obstacles

The design of your bathrooms can be changed but it may hard to move walls and doors. Consider how the door swings, decide where you want to place the toilet in relation to the toilet position. Make sure the vanity doesn’t become a hindrance when the bathroom is in use. Visualize the final look of your bathroom. A granite contractor will help you design the bathroom and suggest ways to make the most of the space.

  • How much Storage do you require

A vanity will add storage and before you settle, decide which kind of storage you need. Consider the kind of storage you will need and whether the vanity will fit in the space available

  • Pick out the Material you want for the Vanity

Your vanity will come into contact with makeup, cleaning products and water. The material you choose should be able to withstand the kind of activity in your bathroom. Granite countertops are the all-time favorite, but quartz countertops and engineered stone countertops are also materials you can use. The granite -quartz countertop installers will be able to guide you on the best material to use to ensure you achieve the style you want.

  • Personal Style

The choice of vanity should make you happy, and bring out your personal style. Make sure the end result is what you hoped for by inviting the professionals even as you choose the material you want to use.

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity

There are many aspects of a vanity that you have to consider

  • Size

The size of the bathroom vanity will depend on the size of the bathroom. Check that the width, depth, and height of the vanity you choose and confirm that it will fit without overcrowding your bathroom. Ensure that there is enough space for traffic. Make sure the shape of the vanity will not hinder movement.

  • Number of sinks

How many sinks do you need? The number of sinks will determine the size of the vanity. Two or more sinks will require a bigger vanity space.

  • Mounting Design

There are three designs you can choose to mount the bathroom vanity. The freestanding is the easiest, the wall mounting and corner mount. Choose the style and design that is easy to implement and bring out the classic style you want.

  • Countertop Material

Choose the countertop material that will work for your vanity. Quartz countertops will withstand soap and makeup. Granite countertop will bring nature into your bathroom while engineered stone works well if the traffic flow to the bathroom is high.

Tips for Easy Installation of the Bathroom Vanity

Make sure the design you choose brings out the best design and comfort to your bathroom. Make sure the design you choose is functional and makes your bathroom stand out.

29

Jun

Granite Counter top Installation Process

Installing a granite countertop in your kitchen is one of the best investment to perk up the value of the house. The process of choosing and installing the granite can be overwhelming and in this post, we guide you on what to expect during the installation. The first step is to get a professional granite installer to help you choose the best granite edges and the best color for your kitchen. Your choice of granite should leave your kitchen trendy and up to date.

Granite Installation Process

  • Visit the Showroom

You start by visiting the granite company and visiting the showroom to see the various granite samples available. Learn about the various granites available, various colors and the pricing for each. Ask the granite  countertop installer the price per square foot for each color and the labor cost for installation.

  • Decide on your Sink

Choose the sink that you want to be installed in you’re the kitchen countertop. It’s important that you decide the sink to use because the granite contractor will need to cut the granite out of the space occupied by the sink.

  • Choose the Granite Edge profile

The edge profile is the outer edge look of the kitchen countertop. Choose the edge that works for your depending on the kitchen size and safety.

  • Install the Granite

On the installation day, the granite fabricator will bring the slab home and set in place. The cabinets that hold the weight of the granite should be ready and installed. The granite countertop should handle with care to avoid breaking or cracking. The granite countertop installers will make sure there is space for the faucet and the granite is properly placed on top of the cabinets. It will take approximately two hours to complete the installation but that depends on the size of granite. If you have the time, it’s important that you take part in the process. Let the expert explain the process to you as that will guide you on what to expect.  Confirm details such how the granite countertops will be attached to the cabinets, what will be used on the backsplash and any other query that you may have.

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Granite Countertop Installation

  • Prepare the cabinets for the granite installation before the granite arrives. That will save you hassles of storing the granite
  • Talk to the granite installers on where the seams will be to make the cutting of the granite easier
  • Choose the sink before you choose the granite
  • Let the granite installer visit your home to determine how the countertop will line up with the oven

How to Choose a Granite Installer

The result of your kitchen countertop will depend on the expertise of your granite countertop installer and it’s therefore important that the one you choose has the required skills and knowledge

  • Expertise and Knowledge

Make sure the installer you choose has previous experience and the required expertise for a professional outcome. Granite is a huge investment and you, therefore, need a person who is a granite who will bring the best out and leave your kitchen looking trendy. Ensure that the installer has all the required tools that they will need during installation. Ask family and friends for a recommendation and visit the previous site to view the works done

  • Labour Cost

Before you choose the installer to get several quotes from the granite companies and compare. Choose one that charges a fair price and ensures all the cost are included. Make sure the granite cost, transportation, installation cost and any other accessories cost is part of the quotation.

The first step to a professional installation is understanding the process and clearly stating the expectation. View other installations to have a visual picture of what you expect and ask questions during the installation process. It’s imperative that you make sure your installation is quality and perfect and its therefore important that the granite company you choose should have the skilled granite installers Rockville. That will make the installation process easy. Make sure you gather as much information as possible as this will help you know the perfect installation. Once the installation is done add all the accessories your kitchen need and enjoy your beautiful kitchen.

19

Jun

Is Your Quartz Kitchen Counter top Heat Resistant?

Your Quartz kitchen countertops go through a lot in their kitchen lifetime and anyone who wants to replace their countertops wonders whether they will withstand. It’s important that you get the countertop that will stand the test of time and in this post, we review what the quartz countertops can bear. Hot pans are placed on them, they get wet, knives scratch their surface and exposure to various substances that may cause stains. The kitchen countertop material you choose should depict style, good in appearance, durable and heat resistant. When it comes to quartz countertops most people wonder whether its heat resistant and up to what level it can resist the heat. Over the year the debate whether quartz is heat resistant rages on and we indulge to find out whether you should place that hot pan on your Quartz kitchen tops.

How Quartz Countertops are Made

Before you choose your kitchen countertop, you need to understand the mineral composition of the top. Quartz is a naturally occurring material composed of silicon and oxygen and to make kitchen countertops resin is added to bond the minerals.

Is Quartz Heat Resistant

Quartz has over the years gained prominence in our kitchen and Over and over the question, whether a quartz countertop will be affected by heat is flouted. When it comes to heat there are two qualities that we need to differentiate, Heat Resistant and Heat Proof

Heat resistant means the ability to be able to resist heat and remain unaffected while heatproof means the ability to withstand heat. With that in mind let now. Quartz relates up to 150 degrees or more of heat and thus its actual heat resistant up to that level. That means that the quartz countertops can bear the heat from hot pans without causing the top to discolor. The beauty of your Quartz Kitchen countertop will remain for many years even after placing the hot pans on it and that makes quartz pass the heat test. That makes quartz the perfect deal when it comes to kitchen countertops.

On the other hand, is Quartz heat proof?

As we have stated above quartz can handle heat up to a certain level but beyond that, the binding polymer resins will be destroyed. As a precaution, the quartz installers recommend placing trivets on the quartz countertops to avoid damage. It might hard to tell the temperature of your pan and it’s therefore important to invest in the trivet or hot pads where you can place the hot items. Too much heat may cause irredeemable damage to your countertop. With the above, you can rest easy knowing how much heat the countertop can bear and how to protect your countertop.

What if the Quartz is damaged?

In the unfortunate event that the Quartz countertop is damaged, the first step is to contact the Quartz countertop contractor so that they can access the extent of the damage. Accidents may damage the heat and the quartz countertop installers from the countertop replacement companies will assess and advise the best option based on the damage. Quartz countertops will rarely get damaged and if they let the expert quartz installers do the repair and the replacement.

Care Tips for Your Quartz Countertops

  • Quartz is not porous but its good maintenance practice to wipe away any spills as soon as they happen
  • Don’t expose your quartz kitchen countertop to very high temperatures to avoid damaging it
  • Avoid powerful and permanent markers on the countertop as this may cause damage. It’s however important to note that quartz is stain resistant but not for very strong chemicals.
  • Use a cutting board to avoid marks and scratches on the countertop.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners as they will damage the shine and make the polish will inconsistent. Clean the countertop with warm water and a mild soap.

Quartz is one of the best kitchen countertop materials due to the various qualities it possesses. You need to seal the countertop often as its porous and therefore perfect low maintenance. It’s Durable making it suitable for all sorts of kitchen, especially high traffic, and busy kitchen. Ensure that when your countertop is damaged you let the quartz countertop installers Rockville assess the damage and do the repair and replacement.

09

Jun

8 Reasons Why You Should Get a Granite Counter top for Your Kitchen

Your Kitchen is the focal point of your home and the materials and appliances you choose will give your house style and value. One of the most crucial parts of the kitchen is the countertop and the material you use on the countertop determines the value of your house. Granite countertops are among the hottest high-end options for kitchen countertops and if you are looking to perk up the value of your house then granite is the ultimate kitchen countertop choice.  Despite the many options available for kitchen counter granite has remained the premier kitchen countertop material. The kitchen is one of the most commonly used room and its therefore imperative that the kitchen countertop you choose id durable, easy to clean and maintain. Before you choose a new countertop, we take you through what you need to know about granites and why Granites countertops are still the most stylish kitchen countertops.

Why You Should Choose a Granite Countertop for Your Kitchen

  • Durability

Granite is made from hard rocks and its second to diamond in terms of hardness. When well installed by the granite installers then you can be sure that your kitchen will stay in style for the longest time. Granite is extremely strong and therefore durable and the only time you will call your countertop replacement company is when remodeling your kitchen. It resists chipping and cracking and thus it will last you a lifetime.

  • Easy to Maintain

When properly sealed after the installation then it’s easier to clean and maintain the countertop. Proper sealing will ensure there are no bacteria on your kitchen countertop. To clean the countertop, you need to warm water and a piece of cloth to clean any spills. Sealing makes granite countertops nonporous and that makes it easy to clean.

  • Exquisite Beauty to your Home

Granite countertops are one of the best additions to your home as it adds style and exquisite beauty to your home. Granite comes in a variety of colors and that gives you the choice to choose one that will give your house the regal effect and compliment with the cabinets and floor. Choosing granite will give you the advantage of having a unique countertop that you will not find elsewhere.

  • Boost the value of your home

If you remodel your home with granite countertop you can be sure that the value of your home will go up. With expert installations, your home is going to get a sale more quickly when it has a granite countertop.

  • Heat Resistance

Granite is able to withstand heat from pans and other hot objects from your kitchen making it a viable material for your countertop. You can set hot pans and pots on the granite without causing any damage.

  • Easy Installation

As you will notice, when the granite installer is installing, it’s relatively easy and fast to install granite tops.

  • Cost of Granite

Granite is relatively cheap and it can cost from $ 40 per square feet depending on the granite company you buy from and the size you need.

  • Long-term investment

When you remodel your kitchen countertop with granite, you can be sure that it will last a lifetime and thus its longtime investment. Granites will last more than any other countertop.

Tips for Taking Care of your Granite Countertop

  • Seal the Countertop

The first and most important step in ensuring the countertop is clean is ensure your granite installer has sealed the top. Sealing will protect the countertop and make maintenance easy. After the sealing then follow the below steps to keep your granite shiny and stylish

  • Avoid using harsh abrasive cleaners and sponges.

Acidic cleaners like lemon, ammonia, and bleach should not be used to clean the granite as this will destroy the sealant and dull the top. While cleaning use warm water and mild soap to clean the top. The granite contractor will advise you on the best cleaning materials for your countertop if you want to purchase cleaning products meant for granites.

Granite remains the leader in the pack and you can never go wrong when you install a granite countertop in your kitchen. It’s however important that the installation and sealing are done professionally by the granite installers Rockville to ensure there is no damage to the countertop and outcome gives your house the stylish look.