09

Sep

Tips on Choosing Granite Counter top Installers

If you are thinking of selling your home, it’s essential that you remodel your house to perk up the value and increase return on investment. Whether the remodel is for purposes of sale or beauty, you need to find a contractor to do the project.  One of the major remodels you can carry out in the kitchen by replacing your old countertop with granite countertops or quartz countertops. Its imperative that you find the right granite countertop installers otherwise your remodel investment may go to waste.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Granite Installers in Rockville

  • Expertise and Knowledge

It’s paramount that you choose a granite countertop installer who has the experience and expertise on how to install granites. You can ask questions on how granites are installed, and from there you can gauge the expertise of the installer. Ask the installer for ideas on colour and shape of the countertop you require. Such information will guide on how to pick the best installer. Check what credentials the installer holds and whether he is a member of the building association. If he is a member that will increase the credibility. Also, seek to see the installers portfolio and his past works as this will give you an idea what to expect and gauge whether its what you want.

  • Cost

Ask for a quotation on how much the installer is charging. Ensure that all they are in the quote including the cost of granite sealing, edge profiles, and the installation. While shopping for the granite, ensure that all the cost are clear so that no cost catches you unaware.

  • Up to Date Cutting Equipment

The best granite countertop installer  will have up to date equipment to cut the granite into the required shape. That will ensure the kitchen countertop is cut neatly and accurately and minimize wastage and chances of damage.

How to Find the Best Granite installers in Rockville

It’s imperative that you find the best granite installer to give your space that ambience and regal effect. You can find the installers through;

  • Granite selling companies

Most granite sellers are also the installers. Confirm whether this is so, before buying the granite as this is the best option. A buy and installation will make your remodel hustle free because you are sure the company will have the experts and up to date cutting equipment.

  • Referrals

Ask friends and family about who did their remodels, visit the project to gauge the work done. Ensure you get a full review of the granite countertop installer, including their personality, reliability and ability to complete the work on agreed timelines. Involve the granite installers Rockville as you shop for the granite, their knowledge of the best and authenticity will go a long way to ensure you have the best

09

Sep

The Most Commonly Used Granite Counter tops Colours

Granite is one of the gorgeous kitchen countertops material. In spite of the cost, granites have stood the test of time and remain a premier choice for kitchen countertops or bathroom countertops. The speckled and swirls in some of the colours make granite countertops in any kitchen to stand out. Granite comes in a variety of colours, and we look at the most commonly used granite colours. The colour of granite to use depends entirely on the owner of the kitchen, but we review some of the most commonly used colours.

Most Commonly Granite Countertops Colors

  • Black Pearl or Dark colours

Black pearl granite has speckles that make it bring out the beauty of your kitchen. Dark colours will harmonize your space more especially if the cabinets and floor are darker than if they are lighter in colour. If you don’t like the shouting colours, then black will work perfectly for you. Black or dark colours are easy to maintain and clean making it ideal especially in a busy kitchen. Black is one of the most popular colours of granite in use in the world, be it in offices, kitchen and bathrooms.

Black or dark coloured countertop will work if;

  • Your cabinets are dark, and you want to harmonize
  • Your wall and cabinets are of shouting hue, and you want to neutralize
  • If you want to achieve a white and black theme

 

  •  Veined White Granites

There are no pure white granites, but it comes with flecks that break the monotony. White is ideal if the kitchen is small as it creates a large space effect. White granites are ideal for

  • If you are looking to give your kitchen a lighter appearance
  • To give a small space a larger appearance
  • White will complement other kitchen colours
  • To make your kitchen more striking, add ambience and modern style

 

  • Brown granite countertop

Brown granite countertops create a warm and rustic look and pair well with light cabinets. It’s ideal if you want to create a country feel and look. Brown granites are ideal for;

  • If you have a wooden look and you would like to complete it
  • To create rusticity

Tips While Buying Granite Countertop

  • Get granite samples

Get granite samples and take them home to be able to compare with cabinets and wall That will give you an impression of what the best colour for your kitchen countertop. You will also be able to see the granite in your kitchen or bathroom lighting and whether it fits.

  • Consider Maintenance and upkeep

Depending on how busy your kitchen is, dark-coloured granite will be better for a busy kitchen while lighter colours will work in small and fewer use spaces.

  • Choose the colours that you love

Even if your favourite colour is not among the most common, ensure that the colour you choose is what you love and will bring out the aesthetic value of the kitchen or bathroom.

Since granite is the last to be installed, ensure that you choose a colour that harmonizes the rest of the house items such as cabinets and walls. Your granite contractor potomac will be able to advise you on how to match the granite, size that you need and ensure that the granite is professionally installed.

24

Aug

Why Engineered Stones Countertops are Ideal for your Kitchen

Engineered stone countertops are made of crushed stones which are bound together by polymer resin or cement mix. Marble and quartz are the most used stones that produce engineered stones and are bonded together to create non-porous and beautiful engineered stone countertops. Apart from kitchen countertops, the engineered stone can be used for flooring and on walls. The engineered stone is made by forming blocks using machines after which the blocks are made into slabs for countertops or tiles.

Why Engineered Countertops

  • Strong, Durable and Attractive

Engineered kitchen countertops have a consistent look and will not fade for the longest time and have a uniform color making it perfect if you want to match your kitchen colors. The countertop comes in a variety of colors including earth tones colors. Colourants can be added to achieve the desired tone. While the engineered countertop is much cheaper, it has the same qualities as granite or any other slab. Engineered stones are resilient and durable ensuring that they last longer especially in a busy kitchen.

  • Heat Resistant

The engineered stones countertop is heat resistant and won’t crack easily. The engineered kitchen countertop is resistant to your cracks, which makes it ideal for the kitchen. Engineered stone does not accumulate bacteria or mold making more hygienic to use as the kitchen countertop.

  • Easy to Clean

The engineered countertops don’t absorb water or any dirt making it easy to clean. The stone is not susceptible to stains and that makes cleaning the engineered stone easier

  • Hygienic

The engineered countertop is non-porous and will not attract any germs or ide germs in the spaces.

The disadvantage of Engineered Kitchen Countertops

The only con to the Engineered kitchen countertops is, it’s hard to curve.

Steps to follow when maintaining Engineered Kitchen Countertops

  • Engineered countertops require minimal maintenance to keep their look
  • Regularly clean the countertop with warm water and mild soap. The countertop is highly resistant to stains and therefore don’t require much cleaning. Glossy finished surfaces require mild cleaners.
  • Don’t use strong chemicals, to clean the surface. Use the ingredients as recommended by the manufacturer.
  • In case of any stubborn stains, use a mild scouring pad to clean off the stain.
  • While installing the countertops, contact an expert installer to ensure its well done. Ensure that during installation there is expansion and contraction space for the countertop.
  • Scrape off any materials stuff on the countertop with a plastic knife
  • Occasionally polish the surface to give a shiny look
  • Avoid placing hot and very cold items on the countertop, as this will cause damage to the engineered countertop

Whether you choose granite countertops Rockville, quartz countertops or the Engineered stone countertops ensure it serves your purpose. Engineered stone countertops are ideal, especially for a busy kitchen. The countertop doesn’t require much maintenance; therefore if you are looking for simple and elegant, then this will work perfectly for you.

24

Aug

What You Need to Know About Quartz Kitchen Countertops

When remodeling your kitchen or building a new one you may be wondering what options you have on the kitchen countertop. It may be hard to decide whether to use granite or quartz or vanity countertops. To make your choice less daunting, we explore quartz kitchen countertops and everything about them that you need to know. Quartz is manmade and relatively new as compared to granite. Its durable and will give your kitchen the aesthetic value that it needs.

Advantages of Using Quartz

Quartz is made of around 95% quartz stones, and the rest of the composition is polymer resin to create a durable stone.

  • Non-Porous

Quartz has no pores in between; the resin polymer fills the gap in the crushed quartz to ensure that there are no spaces, making it more hygienic and easy to clean. The nonporous nature of the stone makes the stone resistant to stains, and food particles have no space to infiltrate making it ideal for a kitchen countertop as this will ensure high hygiene levels. You will find that bacteria, especially in the kitchen, will inhabit such spaces, but with quartz kitchen tops they ensure that there are no spaces for bacteria to latch on.

  • Scratch Resistant

Quartz stones are made of hard minerals and will take a long time before they yield to scratches making it a durable option for your kitchen. Quartz will not crack easily and therefore durable than natural stones

  • Heat Resistant

Quartz is not affected by heat and will take a long time, and any marks due to heat can be cleared if you use sandpaper on it.

  • Variety of Colors

Quartz is manmade and therefore comes in many colors as compared to natural stones. Consequently, it gives you a wider selection of colors.

Ensure that the quartz countertop is professionally installed by a quartz installer to achieve a professional look.

Disadvantages of Quartz

  • Quartz is humanmade and may not match the beauty of granites, and though its available in many colors, it may not match the regal look that comes with granite. We may not consider this a disadvantage as the beauty of something depends mainly on the buyer
  • Since the quartz is human-made, its likely to more expensive than natural stones as the manufacturer controls their availability.
  • Quartz is not ideal for outdoor use as exposure to sun, and other environmental factors will make the resin and color pigments to fade.
  • A quartz countertop will also have seams but they are less visible with a darker countertop. The quartz seams are easier to hide as color can be applied on the seams

Depending on your kitchen countertop needs, quartz is durable and easy to maintain. It’s ideal for use in high traffic kitchens as they are durable and heat resistant.

05

Aug

Simple Remodel Ideas to Give your Kitchen a New Look

Upgrading and decorating the kitchen can give such a huge impact and add such value to the house. An upgrade does not have to cost you an arm and leg, but a mix of different color and materials will make look so regal. An addition of a quartz countertop or a granite countertop in the kitchen will not only increase the monetary value of the home but also make it beautiful and appealing.

Simple Upgrades to Remodel Your Kitchen

  • Use a granite/quartz counter top

A granite/quartz countertop will give your kitchen an instant makeover.Ensure that you contact a granite installer in Rockville to do the job. That will ensure that the countertops are installed professional and sealed as required. Ensure the color you choose complement other kitchen colors to create an ambiance. You can get the best granites from granite company Rockville.

  • Improve Kitchenware display

Display some of your utensils in open cabinets, and this will give your kitchen a different look altogether. If all the cabinets are made of wood, replace some of the wood with glass. Change the color of the kitchen seats to complement the rest of the items in the kitchen. You can add a movable kitchen bar. You can also add some of the appliances like a new kitchen stove, and that will change the way your kitchen looks.

  • Change the Lighting

If your kitchen is dark, even if the other items are beautiful, it may not seem as though any changes have taken place. New lights over the granite countertop will give your kitchen a magnificent look. You can add a glass pendant to illuminate the kitchen.

  • Floors

If you have a wooden floor, you can varnish the wood and if you floor is ceramic invest in general cleaning of the tiles. Whichever flooring that you have clean it up or apply varnish and that will give your kitchen a completely new look

  • Change the Wall Paint

The wall plays a major role in how the kitchen looks; a little feature wall will give your kitchen a completely different look.  Use bright paint to create a feature wall. It’s important to let a professional painter do the job to make sure your kitchen remodel doesn’t ruin other parts of the kitchen.  You can use wall tiles to create a pattern on the wall.

  • Remove Clutter

Remove unnecessary items from the drawers and remake them. If you have stored up thing like bottles, dispose them to create more room in your kitchen.

Tips to Follow during your remodel

  • Ensure you involve the granite countertop installer to ensure  a professional look
  • If the kitchen is small, use light colors to make more appealing
  • Look out for giveaways while shopping for appliances
05

Aug

Granite Countertop Maintenance Tips

You should contact a granite contractor for your kitchen countertops, to add value, timeless elegance and beauty. Granite is a great investment for your kitchens, an investment that is expensive and durable at the same time.

Granite is a natural resource that is made through many natural processes occurring over a period of many years with many chemical compositions. The pieces of granite have many impurities which give them the unique patterns and designs. They are available in many designs and colors and their cost varies according to the detailing of the designs and color. Your local granite countertop installers may give you more details about the colors and patterns of designs available. Once you spend a hefty amount on a granite countertop, then you will want it last a long time. To make it last a long time without losing its natural shine, you will need to maintain your granite. Below are some top maintenance tips.

  • Although your granite contractor has told you that granite is heat resistant, still, you should place heating pads before placing hot pots and pans to avoid your granite wearing off.
  • Clean your granite countertop daily with a mild cleaning liquid and a washcloth or sponge.
  • Avoid spilling acidic drinks or alcohol or any other harp liquid on your granite countertop and if accidentally it gets spilled, then wipe and clean it immediately to avoid sharp stains.
  • Ask your granite countertop installer to tell you about the best granite countertop cleaner available. You can use the cleaner every 3 months to get a polished look for your granite countertop.
  • Do not use sharp knives or heavy utensils on your granite countertop as it could scratch your granite and make scratches and chips on it.
  • Do not drop heavy objects such as your tools or very heavy materials and items on your granite countertop as it could damage your granite countertop.
  • You should call your granite contractor for a yearly maintenance of your granite countertop. They should take care of all the scratches and chips if any and repair them professionally and remove all the stubborn stains and give it a polish and a sealing coat to make it shiny and new again.
  • Do not use harsh cleaners for your granite countertop such as bleach. Also do not go for natural acidic cleaners such as lemon juice, vinegar or baking soda for your granite countertops as these ingredients are acidic in nature and can dull your granite countertops.
  • If you have pets, then do not let them sit on your countertops as their paws can scratch the countertops.
  • Do not put your toiletries such as your creams, lotions or perfumes or any other liquid stuff. It may also fall, spill or leak on your granite countertops and can stain and damage it.
  • Sealing your granite countertop is a must to maintain it. You should contact your granite countertop installer Rockville, MD to reapply the seal on your granite countertop every 6 months.
31

Jul

Granite Vs. Stainless Steel Countertops

In our blog, we have compared many countertop options that have some similarities, such as granite and marble (both are natural stones), granite and quartz (two of the most popular countertop options), quartz and solid surface (two popular engineered countertop options), and many others. This time, we’re doing a quite unlikely comparison because stainless steel and granite countertops have very distinct appearances from each other. But there are many things to compare, like durability, heat resistance, scratch resistance, porosity, cost, and more. So, let’s get started.

A Comparison Between Granite And Stainless Steel Countertops

Composition

We’ll begin with what the material is made of.

Granite Countertops

Granite is an ingenious rock that’s composed of quartz, mica, feldspar, and other mineral crystals. It’s quarried from beneath the Earth’s surface and cut into slabs for countertops. It’s the most popular natural stone countertop option, as it’s known to work with any kitchen design.

Stainless Steel Countertops

As we know, stainless steel is a metal alloy that contains iron, chromium, carbon, and also nickel and molybdenum. This creates a rust-resistant, heat-resistant, and durable countertop surface. Highly preferred for commercial kitchen countertops, stainless steel countertops have a good reputation for residential kitchen countertops as well. This also makes stainless steel the most popular metal countertop material.

Appearance And Variety

Granite Countertops

This is where granite countertops shine. They are natural stone slabs. So, the colors, patterns, speckles, and veining you see are natural and unique. You won’t find two granite slabs to be identical.

Plus, the variety. You have a huge variety of patterns and veining and, of course, colors. This is why we mentioned earlier that granite countertops work for any kitchen style. Whether you’re going for a traditional kitchen, a modern and minimalistic kitchen, a farmhouse kitchen, or any other style, you have the colors and patterns that will look like they were specifically made for that kitchen style.

You have various kinds of slabs. For instance, you can use a slab with subtle patterns for a minimalist kitchen or a slab with dramatic veining to make it a focal point in a farmhouse kitchen. There are just so many variations and ways you can use them.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Well, there is silver! The color choices are limited even though there are methods used by manufacturers to bond color to the material at an atomic level. So, apart from the popular silver color, you also choose from other colors as well, such as champagne gold, bronze, brass, rich copper, charcoal gray, gunmetal gray, onyx, and more.

In addition to that, the finish can also impact the color and appearance. Whereas you have the classic mirror finish that is reflective and makes the color look bright (and shows fingerprints), you also have the brushed finish that is matte and diffuses light for a minimal look. Plus, you have the patterned or embossed finish that’s textured and can create multi-toned shadows of the chosen color.

However, the most common and popular color is the standard silver that creates a clean, modern, and industrial aesthetic.

The modern and contemporary style works well because you can also have the sink integrated into the countertop so there won’t be any sink seams.

Grades

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops have three grades:

  • Level 1 is an entry-grade. The thickness is around 2cm, the patterns are the common ones, and the surface is more porous than other grades.
  • Level 2 is a mid-grade. The thickness can be around 3cm, the patterns are more attractive and variable, and the surface is less porous than level 1.
  • Level 3 is high-grade. The thickness can be more than 3cm, the color and patterns are rare and exotic ones, and the porosity is less than the other two levels.

Stainless Steel Countertops

There are two common grades of stainless steel for countertops:

  • Grade 304: This is the standard grade for many commercial and residential kitchens. It has 18% chromium and 8% nickel. It doesn’t rust or corrode easily and works for 95% of kitchen countertops.
  • Grade 316 (marine grade): This is even stronger than 304 as it has 18% chromium and 10% nickel with molybdenum. This makes it completely resistant to corrosion and rust. But they are expensive and recommended only if you have an outdoor kitchen or you live in a coastal region.

Moisture-Resistance

Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural stone, so it’s porous. Moisture can seep into the surface, creating stains and bacterial growth if not sealed frequently. Although some granite slabs are less porous than others, all granite slabs require sealing to keep moisture from staining or damaging the surface over time.

Depending on the quality of granite and your usage, you may have to seal the countertops once every 1-3 years.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel is a metal alloy, and it’s completely waterproof. So, moisture, spills, or anything will bead on the surface, which you can simply wipe off. For a place like the kitchen where accidental spills are a matter of when rather than if, a waterproof surface is a big winner.

Heat-Resistance

Granite Countertops

Granite is basically solidified magma, so it’s highly heat-resistant. But don’t think that it’s indestructible or can withstand extremely high heat. The reason is that granite stone itself is very heat-resistant, but extreme heat and rapid temperature changes can crack the surface.

In addition to that, the sealer you apply to the granite surface has even lower heat resistance. It can get damaged by temperatures over 500°F (260°C). Once the seal becomes ineffective, the surface will stain and fade more quickly, unless you notice the problem and seal it again.

Therefore, granite is very heat-resistant, but you should still always use trivets and hot pads for placing hot items on the counters.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel is also highly heat-resistant. You can place hot pans from the stove directly on the surface and there is a lower risk of scorches or burn marks on the surface. However, the material is not completely heatproof. For cookware directly from an oven with temperatures ranging from 480°F to 570°F (250°C to 300°C), there can be heat marks or browning that would not look good.

So, you can place normal hot items from the stove on the surface, but very hot cookware can still pose a risk of stains. So, it’s best to use trivets and coasters.

Another reason for that is because, being a metal, stainless steel is a conductor of heat. So, the surface can get hot and it can cause burns or injury if the person near it is not careful.

Scratch-Resistance And Durability

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are very hard and can resist scratches very well. But you should still use a cutting board to keep the sealer from getting punctured.

Now, granite is scratch-resistant but can be brittle. An impact from a metal or a heavy item can crack or chip the edges.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel is very impact-resistant. If you have the 14-gauge (thicker) or 16-gauge (slightly less thick) steel countertops, the surface won’t budge from the impact of another metal or a heavy item.

However, stainless steel performs poorly when it comes to scratch resistance. Knives, metal pans, steel sponges, etc., can scratch the surface.

Maintenance

Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are high maintenance because you have to be careful and use trivets to keep heat from damaging the countertops, use cutting boards to keep knives from damaging the sealer, and then also seal the surface every year or so to keep it moisture-resistant. Plus, you need to use a special granite countertop cleaner for cleaning the surface.

Stainless Steel Countertops

Stainless steel countertops are very low maintenance. You don’t need to seal them and anything can be wiped easily. You can also use any mild detergent to clean the surface. Scratches can be an issue, but you can choose a textured finish or get accustomed to the texture that scratches form over time on the surface.

Cost

Granite Countertops

Granite is usually cheaper than stainless steel if you choose level 1 or 2 granite, which are the common grades chosen by homeowners.

Now, there are many factors that can impact the costs, but if we just do a general comparison, granite countertops might cost you 40-50% less than stainless steel countertops.

Stainless Steel Countertops

You have gauges and grades that determine the cost, along with fabrication. Even the common grade (304) and slightly less thick gauge (16-gauge) can cost more than level 1 and 2 granite countertops.

Conclusion

That’s it! If you want a material that adds value to the house, has a lot of color options that match with any home style, and has good durability and heat resistance, and you don’t mind high maintenance, choose granite countertops. On the other hand, stainless countertops are low maintenance, highly durable, and waterproof, but can scratch and are costlier. Get in touch with a granite contractor Potomac for more details.

16

Jul

11 Questions People Ask About Sealing Kitchen Countertops

An essential part of maintaining many kitchen countertop options is sealing. It prevents the surface from absorbing moisture, harboring bacteria, and staining or discoloring. Marble, quartzite, and granite countertops, among many others, require sealing. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about sealing kitchen countertops, along with their answers.

Top FAQs About Sealing Kitchen Countertops

Why seal your kitchen countertops?

You have to apply a sealant on your kitchen countertops to create a protective barrier against moisture, oils, and stains. A sealant keeps your countertops from staining, scratching, etching, and fading prematurely. It also makes the surface easier to clean and more hygienic.

Which countertops require sealing?

Natural stones, wood, concrete, and tile countertops usually require sealing. Natural stone countertops include granite, marble, quartzite, sandstone, limestone, basalt, travertine, etc. These materials require sealing because they have a porous surface (or have grout lines) that allows moisture to be absorbed, leading to stains, bacteria growth, and damage. Therefore, you seal them regularly.

Which kitchen countertops don’t require sealing?

Non-porous kitchen countertop options like quartz (engineered quartz), solid surface (Corian), laminate, stainless steel, and sintered stone don’t need to be sealed.

Some metals like zinc and nickel are also non-porous and don’t need sealing, but they require waxing to keep them from developing a patina. So, these two are not recommended if you need a low-maintenance surface.

Is there a natural stone countertop option that doesn’t need sealing?

Soapstone is a natural stone countertop material that doesn’t require sealing. Even though it’s not completely non-porous at the microscopic level, it’s still one of the most dense natural stones used for countertops and doesn’t need to be sealed. If you want, you can wax or oil it, but it’s not mandatory.

However, remember that even though soapstone is almost non-porous, it’s softer than granite and quartzite. So, it can scratch and dent easily. However, you can sand the surface to remove scratches.

Another dense natural stone countertop option is slate, but it’s usually recommended to seal it.

How to seal kitchen countertops?

If you have a natural stone, wood, tile, or concrete countertop, you have to seal it. The exact instructions may vary, but the general method is below:

  1. Choose the right sealant. There are various types of sealers, so choose one that is for your countertop material.
  2. Thoroughly clean the countertop surface to make sure there is no stuck dirt, food crumbs, or anything else on the slab. Only use a mild dishwasher and warm water for cleaning, and avoid harsh cleaners.
  3. After cleaning, wipe the countertop with a dry cloth and then let it dry for 30 minutes or more.
  4. Carefully read the instructions on the sealant’s label.
  5. Prepare to apply the sealant in sections of 2 to 6 square feet of space at a time.
  6. Begin with one section. Apply the sealant slowly onto the countertop and spread it using a microfiber cloth.
  7. Let the sealant be absorbed by the stone without completely drying. It may take from 5-15 minutes, depending on the countertop material and the sealant.
  8. Once the surface appears dry, you can wipe it with a sealant-soaked cloth to remove any unabsorbed residue left on the surface. Let the surface dry again for 1-5 minutes.
  9. Now, wipe that section with a dry cloth.
  10. Repeat steps 4 to 9 till you cover every inch of the countertop.
  11. Remember that sometimes a surface requires more than one coat of the sealant. If the surface dries too quickly, it usually needs another coat.
  12. Let it cure for 24 to 72 hours. Don’t use the countertop or place anything on the surface. Plus, avoid using the sink as well.

How often do you reseal your kitchen countertops?

The frequency of resealing depends on the type of countertop material you have and the type of sealer you choose. Here’s a list of countertop options with their generally recommended resealing frequency:

  • Granite: Every 1 to 3 years
  • Slate: Every 1 to 3 years
  • Concrete: Every 1 to 3 years
  • Quartzite: Every 1 to 2 years
  • Recycled glass: Every 1 to 2 years
  • Marble: Every 6 to 12 months
  • Limestone: Every 6 to 12 months
  • Travertine: Every 6 to 12 months
  • Sandstone: Every 6 to 12 months
  • Onyx: Every 3 to 6 months
  • Wood: Every 1 to 3 months

Can I seal quartz countertops?

Engineered quartz countertops are non-porous and don’t require sealing, so you don’t have to seal them ever.

How to perform a water test to know your countertops need resealing?

A simple water test can help you determine whether to seal your countertop or wait for a few more months. You usually perform it once every 6 months. Here’s how to perform it:

  1. Spill a small amount of water on the surface.
  2. Use a stopwatch or clock to see how long it takes for it to dry and form a dark spot.
  3. If there’s a dark spot in less than 10 minutes, reseal the countertop no matter when you sealed it the last time.

How to choose the right sealant for your kitchen countertops?

When choosing a sealer for your kitchen countertops, look for terms like impregnating or penetrating sealant, and make sure that the sealer is for the stone type you have. Every natural stone requires a slightly different treatment, so ensure you see something like “for granite surfaces” if you have granite countertops.

There are three major types of sealants for stone countertops:

  • Water-based penetrating sealants: They are cheaper and eco-friendly, but don’t last as long as solvent-based sealers.
  • Solvent-based penetrating sealants: They are more expensive and may emit more VOCs, but they keep your countertop’s surface sealed and protected for long.
  • Fluoropolymer sealants: They are considered the best and the most expensive sealants.

For concrete and butcher block countertops, you need topical sealers and coatings, like acrylics, epoxies, and natural waxes and oils. Make sure they are food-safe.

Why seal tile countertops when they are waterproof?

Even though tile countertops, like ceramic and porcelain, are non-porous and waterproof, the grout lines aren’t. They absorb water and also wear over time. So, a sealant can keep the entire surface waterproof, including the grout lines.

How to protect sealed countertops?

Sealants protect countertops from moisture and oil, but they need care as well to stay effective for a long time. Otherwise, the sealant will wear quickly – on busy spots, especially – and the stone will start fading or staining before you notice that you have to reseal it. Below are some maintenance tips to protect your countertops and the sealant:

  • Never put hot pans or any other hot item directly on the surface. Use trivets and coasters.
  • Don’t chop food on the surface without a chopping board.
  • Avoid using any knives or dragging heavy metal items on the surface.
  • Clean acidic spills quickly.
  • Don’t use harsh cleaners or cleaning tools.

Conclusion

Sealing your kitchen countertops can extend their lifespan and prevent fading. For fabricating, installing, or sealing your countertops, get help from a granite contractor Rockville.

28

Jun

Honed Vs. Leathered Quartz Countertops

Quartz is a widely popular kitchen countertop material, and for good reasons. Aside from its durability and longevity, there are many colors and pattern options to choose from. Well, speaking of options, there are also lots of quartz finishes. As more and more homeowners are preferring matte finishes, here is everything you need to know about leathered and honed quartz kitchen countertops.

A Comparison Between Honed And Leathered Quartz Countertops

What Is Honed Quartz?

Honed quartz is a really loved and very good finish of quartz if you are someone who doesn’t like the glitzy and very polished finish of kitchen countertop materials. When it comes to quartz and any other materials for that matter, there is a huge divide in finishes and what people prefer. Some people like the material to be fully matte. Some want a slightly polished finish and some want a complete mirror finish.

Well, when it comes to honed quartz, it is in the category of matte countertop finishes. It is buffed and treated until the top surface of the material looks completely matte. There is not even a slight shimmer or polish to this finish. It is completely matte. So, if you are someone who loves this certain type of finish, then this is the one for you.

Quartz is naturally quite shiny and polished, so if you want the material to be matte, then you have to treat it and buff it until it gets completely matte and that does take some time.

What Is Leathered Quartz?

If you are someone who can’t decide whether you want to go for a completely smooth matte finish or if you want a matte finish with a bit of texture, then don’t worry because quartz is here to save the day with a very unique finish, which is known as a leathered finish. It is pretty self-explanatory when it comes to a leathered finish.

If you have seen and felt leather before, then you would know that it is a matte material, but when you touch it, it is not completely smooth as you glide your fingers over the surface, it is slightly textured. You may not be able to put your finger on it, but it is somewhere between pebbled and slightly gritty.

Well, if you love this type of finish and don’t want your quartz countertops to be completely smooth and flat, then you can go for a leathered finish. It is seriously such a wonderful finish that is matte, but also textured. To achieve this leathered finish, the quartz surface is banged with a very specific mallet, which leaves texture and divots behind, giving it that signature look that you are bound to fall in love with.

Which Finish Of The Two Is Better?

Well. This is a question everyone would love the answer to, but it is not as simple as it seems. There are a lot of considerations that you have to take into account to come to a conclusion whether a finish is better than the other option or not.

The durability, the stain resistance, the general maintenance – all of it is very important to consider before this question can be answered. So, here are some of the things discussed below, and then you can make your decision. If you want, you can explore other types of quartz finishes as well.

Durability

When it comes to durability, quartz is generally a winner in the kitchen, even putting some very loved natural stones to shame. Well, when it comes to specific finishes, things might vary, but not so much as to make a huge difference because you’re still buying quartz countertops after all.

Honed Quartz Countertops

When it comes to honed quartz, it is really durable. It doesn’t require kids gloves to handle it and if you are careful with heat and other things that might damage the material, then you will be good to go for a long time.

Cleaning it is also easier due to the smooth and divot-free finish, so that earns it a couple of more brownie points.

Leathered Quartz Countertops

As far as leathered quartz is concerned, it is also just as durable as honed or any other finish of quartz. At the end of the day, it is quartz, and there is not a lot that can falter this material. However, one major thing that you have to think about is the cleaning.

Cleaning leathered quartz can be hard thanks to all of the texture the surface has going on. This can lead to a bit more time as opposed to other finishes being cleaned, so, it is good that you consider all the bases.

Maintenance

Next up is the maintenance of the two finishes and this is something that you have to consider because you don’t want to get a material that is very heavy on the maintenance side of things.

Honed Quartz Countertops

Well, when it comes to honed quartz, it will require a bit more maintenance than usual. Since it is not a natural finish of quartz, you have to realize that you will need to maintain the material to make it look the same at all times.

The honed finish can lose its charm after a bit and that is when you have to step up your game and maintain this bad boy.

Leathered Quartz Countertops

As for leathered quartz, even though it is generally harder to clean than honed quartz, what is really interesting is that it requires way less maintenance than other leathered materials, like leathered granite or marble.

Since the appearance is quite rugged to begin with, you don’t need to do a whole lot to maintain it, so this is quite encouraging and helpful for people who love this finish but can’t seem to decide which one to go for.

Stain Resistance

you also have to figure out which finish has the most and least resistance to stains, scratches, and all the shenanigans that are common in the kitchen.

Honed Quartz Countertops

When it comes to honed quartz, you need to keep one thing in mind and that is the fact that the matte finish can cause the material to stain. Because the surface is entirely matte and smooth with no chance of camouflage, you will see stains and smears a lot more easily on the surface as opposed to other surfaces. However, you don’t have to worry about scratches because they will be a no-show.

Leathered Quartz Countertops

With leathered quartz, you can get away with a slightly stained and worn surface, because the texture will camouflage everything perfectly. This is quite possibly one of the great things about leathered quartz. You don’t have to rush to clean or get rid of a stain if you don’t want your countertops to be mottled with weird smears all over the surface.

This finish also hides scratches really well and for that reason, it is considered to be one of the best quartz options to go for.

Conclusion

Even though there are more finishes of quartz, honed and leathered are perfect for people who want something that is a bit more on the matte side. Basically, honed quartz is a matte and flat surface, while leathered quartz is a matte but textured surface. To check out samples and other quartz finishes, get in touch with a quartz countertop contractor Potomac.

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Jun

10 Popular Types Of Natural Stone Countertops

Natural stone countertops have this unmistakable natural feel, unique appearance, and excellent durability, but they can be costly and high maintenance, and you have to choose from a lot of types, which can be confusing. There are many more natural countertops than the popular ones: marble and granite countertops. So, here are some common and popular types of natural stone countertop surfaces you can choose for your kitchen.

Types of Natural Stone Countertops

Granite Countertops

Granite is the most popular type of natural stone countertop surface. The reasons are its aesthetics, durability, heat-resistance, scratch-resistance, and availability. Granite countertops can last for decades and due to that, adding granite countertops to your kitchen can boost your home’s value.

Another great thing about granite countertops is their huge variety. You can find most kinds of colors and patterns, such as white, black, blue, red, green, yellow, and brown. There are also many exotic colors of granite, like vivid blue, emerald green, purple, multicolor slabs, etc., though those are more expensive.

Marble Countertops

Marble countertops are all about appearance. They offer unique and unmatched beauty, even though they are not as durable, scratch-resistant or heat-resistant as granite or most natural stone countertop options.

With mediocre durability and high maintenance, you would think that marble countertops won’t add value to your home, but if you know anything about countertops, you know that marble surfaces offer excellent ROI in high-end, luxury homes. However, if you also want practicality with a higher home value, either choose granite or quartzite countertops – in the realm of natural stone countertops.

Quartzite Countertops

This natural stone is very similar to marble in appearance, but it’s highly durable, scratch-resistant, and heat-resistant. Quartzite feels like nature kind of gave us a hybrid of granite and marble. We get the looks of marble and the durability of granite.

In addition to that, quartzite has an impressive color variety. You can find many shades with dramatic veining, like white, gray, beige, pink, blue, and more. It also improves resale value, but it costs more compared to granite and is similarly priced as marble.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone countertops are fairly durable and heat-resistant. But the unique thing about them is that, unlike other natural stones, they are almost non-porous. So, you don’t need to seal them as frequently. They are commonly available in blue, gray, green, and black colors and offer a rustic appearance. Moreover, soapstone surfaces develop a natural patina or shade over time, which is liked by many people while disliked by others.

The downside is that they are not as hard as granite or quartzite and can be scratched easily. Soapstone slabs are usually costlier than granite and sandstone, and cheaper than quartzite and marble countertops.

Sometimes, people confuse it with sandstone, which is a much cheaper, softer, more porous, and less durable natural stone countertop option.

Limestone Countertops

Limestone is a unique natural stone. It has soft, earthy tones that work well with most types of kitchen styles, be it traditional, transitional, modern, contemporary, or minimalist. Commonly, limestone has beige, cream, white, off-white, gray, yellow, and brown tones. You can also get fossil-rich multi-tone limestone slabs if you want the countertop to be the focal point of your kitchen.

So, it offers luxury-like aesthetics without being as costly as marble, quartzite, or high-end granite. However, the problem is that it’s a soft stone and prone to scratches and damage. Plus, it’s highly porous, much like sandstone, so frequent sealing must never be ignored. On top of that, limestone is also sensitive to chemicals much more than other natural stones. So, you have to take care of it.

Travertine Countertops

A type of limestone, travertine offers a soft, warm appearance with earthy tones like cream, ivory, beige, tan, walnut, gold, reddish brown, etc. These countertops are usually for rustic, traditional, and Mediterranean style kitchens.

Travertine has the durability and heat resistance associated with natural stones, but it’s still much softer and more porous than most natural stones, making it prone to stains, scratches, chipping, and etching. But all in all, it’s a good, cheap alternative for budget-friendly kitchens that want to look luxurious.

Slate Countertops

You may commonly hear about slate in roofing, but the metamorphic rock is also used for flooring and countertops. Slate has its uniqueness in colors and offers a muted color range, such as charcoal, black, green, and gray. They couple perfectly with a matte finish. However, the color choices are limited.

Similar to soapstone, slate countertops are also almost non-porous and requires less frequent sealing compared to granite and marble. It’s also highly heat resistant and can withstand outdoor conditions if installed in an outdoor kitchen. Plus, it’s low cost compared to quartzite, marble, and other high-end natural stones.

Even though slate is durable, it’s prone to chipping due to its layered composition. It can also be scratched by cleaning tools or harsh chemicals. However, this is true for most natural stone and also engineered stone countertop materials.

Onyx Countertops

When it comes to luxury countertops and statement pieces, onyx countertops are highly regarded. Their dramatic veining, striking colors and patterns, and translucent nature help them take the center stage wherever they are installed. The translucency is amplified with backlighting for maximum visual impact.

But there are many downsides to onyx countertops. The predictable one is that they are one of the most expensive natural stone countertop options. Onyx is also fragile and soft, as it ranks 3 to 4 on the Mohs scale (granite is 6-7, quartzite is 7, and marble is 3-5). So, it can chip, scratch, or even crack with high impact. It can also be etched with chemicals and is highly porous.

So, onyx countertops are not for busy kitchens or primary kitchen worktops. They are usually for low-traffic spaces or parts of the kitchen.

Basalt Countertops

Basalt in Latin means “very hard stone”, though it ranks 5-6 on the Mohs scale, and granite and quartzite rank higher than it in hardness. But still, it’s a hard and durable stone, just not as hard as granite, and can be scratched with knives. You will mostly see basalt countertops in modern and contemporary kitchens for their uniform and elegant dark gray to black color tones.

Like other natural stones, basalt is porous and requires sealing. It’s also susceptible to acids and can be etched if spills are not cleaned immediately or if acidic cleaners are used.

Sandstone Countertops

As stated in the soapstone section, sandstone countertops are budget-friendly and offer earthy tones for kitchens and bathrooms, like gray, charcoal, brown, tan, beige, and others. It also handles heat well, but that’s about it when it comes to the benefits.

Its drawbacks include high porosity, which prompts you to seal it once every few months, and poor durability that encourages scratches, dents, and damage.

Other Natural Stones

There are other natural stones as well, which include bluestone, dolomite, schist, serpentine, gneiss, and other exotic natural stones.

Conclusion

When it comes to natural stone countertops, granite is the most popular one, followed by marble and quartzite. They make up more than 90% of natural stone countertops in the U.S. However, there are other niche options as well to suit a kitchen style or vibe. So, you have a lot to choose from. To check out the samples of various natural stones and for proper fabrication and installation, get in touch with a granite contractor Rockville.