23

Apr

How to Choose the Right Quartz Countertops

There are many factors involved when it comes to choosing the right quartz kitchen countertops, it is important that you know what they are. You have to consider the slab thickness, color, edge profile, and others, but the most important factor is the slab quality. If you choose one with poor quality, it becomes a fatal mistake that might end up costing more to fix compared to what you spent at first.

A quartz slab can last a long time, but you must never pick a cheap one. You will not be happy staring at your new countertop, and you will wish that you spent more for a good quality one that you will look at every day for many years.

Read more about it now.

Visual Appearance

Part of having a stone countertop is the look it gets from visitors, who might look at them twice. More importantly, how it looks to you, the homeowner. You are the one who can wake up every morning to look at the countertop while drinking your morning coffee or eating breakfast.

Quartz countertops come in several colors. Each one brings a different type of mood or attitude. From the classic pearl white one to the tantalizing and intricate. Remember that there are more colors you can choose from. Quartz slabs also have different designs and patterns. This can be a chemical that your countertop has to be unique or it can stop working with the other parts of the room.

Normally, designers and suppliers will have color palettes you can choose from. Visualize other parts of the space so you can see what works best. You are looking only at the color that might not like.

Neutral Colors are Perfect

Neutral color slabs have attractive and enduring qualities, with a presence that is traditional and classic. Quartz can have a consistent and single color or it features the looks of white marble and other soft, natural patterns. When you choose a quartz countertop, that is designed to last a long time, you should stick to the grays, beige, off-whites, and bright whites. Even if quartz countertops include red, blue, and black, you should remember that the trendy colors can also coexist with traditional hues if they are just small spurts.

Edging

Edging is helpful when it comes to determining the counter style or vanity and how it affects pricing. Standard edges of quartz are straight edges and waterfall edges. These edges are applicable to quartz with a thickness of 1 1/4 inch. The more intricate edging options can include gee, beveled, pencil, bullnose, and laminated edging profiles that add another quartz layer to achieve a more dramatic look.

Overall Motif and Appliances

You should read the room. There is not one item, pattern, color, or finish that is perfect. You can only achieve perfection by combining all the little details and putting them together cohesively.

The countertop value, and how it goes with the space. In other cases, this could be the centerpiece. Sometimes, it can just be a supporting role. One of the best practices is to digitally or physically have a cut out of the room and then superimpose countertop cutouts with different patterns and colors. This is helpful when it comes to visualizing what works and what will not in a more realistic situation instead of relying mainly on imagination.

You should never hesitate to ask for help and take a picture of the countertop when you shop for them.

There are so many to choose from and quartz countertop contractors Rockville can help you.

15

Apr

Tips for Choosing Granite Countertops

When you remodel your home or choose fixtures for a new build, the color you choose is important especially if you are choosing countertops. However, you should not worry about the stone stuff because there are easy tips you can follow if you plan to pay for granite countertops.

When you choose a lighter color or speckled granite is a great option for darker spaces that have very little light. However, a darker color like obsidian and sable granite with streaks would be a great choice for the kitchen that overflows with natural light or if you are busy. Lighting is an important consideration since the darker granite should have sufficient lighting and can make spaces appear smaller compared to what they really are.

Read on to know more.

Listen to Your Gut

Most of the time, the granite slab stands out the most and it will most likely be their first choice. If you have chosen a slab that you think can match your flooring, cabinets, and other designs, you must take note. Most of the time, you are looking at so many granite slabs that have different tones and patterns, which can be daunting and decision-making becomes difficult. Instead, you need to consider what made you think that you should choose that one.

Choose the Peg You Like

Most of the time designers choose an element as the basis for the kitchen color scheme. When you are choosing granite, there are 2 choices you can make. Choose the granite primary color that will best match the kitchen’s dominant color, which is normally the cabinets or you can choose a more subtle approach like finding matching streaks or veins. For instance, if you have white cabinets, you must choose granite with white veins or a background.

Take Samples

If you have available samples, you should take a few of them home so you can see what it looks like in your kitchen. If not, you can take pictures of the samples. Once you get home, you should test them by covering existing countertops with a neutral one such as a paper or white sheet, and then place the samples or photos on the counter. Doing this allows you to see if it looks the same under natural light and the other elements that are in your home. Make sure they are tested several times of the day, even if you choose a mid-tone gray with flecks of dark charcoal and white veins. How you see color depends on the temperature and level of lighting.

Choose an Area

Since each slab is unique, it is going to have valuable grains and color tones in the entire slab. If you are into veining or colors in one area, you can ask the granite countertop installers if you can have that section. Based on the size and shape of the countertop, sometimes your favorite part might not be appropriate for the countertop. For instance, if you want large and flowing patterns, it might work best for a sweeping kitchen island to show the beautiful design.

You Can Always Choose Two

If you cannot decide between two colors, you can always use both. It is also a good idea to choose a lighter color for the island and a darker tone for the cabinets, which creates a nice contrast. Your kitchen will have a pop of color that you might end up loving. Granite is the popular choice because it compliments any color, with neutrals, like taupe and soft cream.

You can contact granite contractor Potomac if you want the best for your home.

21

Mar

How to Choose the Right Granite Kitchen Countertop

Granite countertops have a huge impact on your home’s value, which is why it is important to choose the right material for you and for any future buyer in case you sell your home. Many people love granite for their kitchen countertop, making it a safe option.

The issue is that granite has a huge range of patterns and colors. There are neutral colors like black, white, and brown to even exotic and bold ones like greens, reds, and blues. You might have a hard time choosing the right granite slab because it is a big investment. In this article, there are tips here you can use so that you will not have a hard time.

Gather the Materials You Need

A great selection of countertops calls for attention to detail. Buying a slab and wanting the best results is a big risk. When it comes to choosing granite, you should take color samples of the finish, flooring, wall paint, and kitchen appliances. In case there are no samples available, take a picture of them. You need to place the samples around or on the granite so you can have an idea of what the decoration is. Dark cabinetry made of cherry wood and black granite can be overpowering.

Choose a Theme

Most of the time, designers choose an element as a foundation for a color scheme. When you are choosing granite, there are 2 options for you. Choose the main granite color that matches the kitchen’s dominant color, which is normally the cabinets, or opt for a more subtle approach by looking for matching streaks or veins. For instance, if your cabinets are white, you can go for a granite background or white veins.

Visit Showrooms

Online shopping for granite is convenient, but it should not be a replacement for seeing it on your own. It is hard to photograph the color patterns and the small differences in textures and shades are not accurately seen. When you shop in-store, there are still some challenges when it comes to color selection. Slabs with the same color and category usually vary greatly. After choosing your preferred color, like brown, black, blue, yellow, or green, you should ask to see the samples in the color subset.

Choose Light or Dark

In other cases, the granite you choose might be more influenced by its effect on the kitchen instead of the color scheme. If it will be for a small kitchen, you might want to choose a light color, like gray or beige. That can also be for bathrooms. The only thing to be concerned about is that a light stone granite countertop will show stains more. In general, granite is resistant to stain, so that is a good point to consider. You can use dark granite to add a little drama to your kitchen, especially if you have a large kitchen. It might not be good for a small kitchen or if there is no natural light coming in.

Make Sure it Blends with the House

When you are choosing the granite countertop color, it can help to consider other parts of the house. This is also true when the kitchen has an open sight of the other rooms. Having color consistency in your home keeps it cohesive. So, your home is going to feel like a living space instead of only individual rooms that are connected by doors. You should think about bringing a color shade from a different room to harmonize them together.

You can contact granite contractor Potomac if you want your countertop done right.

 

07

Mar

Benefits of Hiring a Professional Kitchen Designer

These days, there is an abundance of interior design blogs that make it seem like anyone can just start finishing their remodeling project.

If you are an ambitious homeowner, you can look for a professional designer and hire a good granite contractor who can install the countertop you prefer. You cannot just do it all on your own if you are not an expert. You will see that hiring a professional has a different effect on your kitchen, and it is not a small project you can just take on.

You might have to pay quite a bit for an expert, but the benefits are all worth it. You can find out what they are right here.

They Follow the Right Coding and Licensing

When you want to do a major redesign of your kitchen, you have to make sure that you are not violating coding and regulations where you live. These guidelines about construction projects should be met, and they must be followed. If you call a hire licensed expert kitchen contractor, you can just find out that they will follow all the required regulations.

Knowledgeable About the Budget

Kitchen renovations cost a lot, which is why you want to be sure about spending your money properly. A designer helps you stay within your budget, and they can source better materials as well. Most of the time, they know where the better deals are, so you will get more for your budget. The connections and knowledge they have to help you achieve the kitchen you want but within the range of your budget.

You are Getting Good Materials

Your designer is helpful in making sure that you will get the best materials for your investment, which helps you sort out your goals and ideas to come up with a great plan. At the same time, they will sometimes ask you to fill out a questionnaire and from here, they can understand what the most important thing is to you. At the same time, your designer guides you through all the options and gives recommendations in a couple of meetings, and prioritizes all of them for yourself – this makes it less stressful. You can always splurge, but knowing that you can lower the costs is excellent.

Eligibility of Your Warranty

Kitchen renovations will not be only about replacing the backsplash or repairing the old cabinet doors. You have to make important decisions about the design, styles, layout, materials, as well as electrical and plumbing systems. Kitchen designers consider and make sure that every appliance, furnishing, or attachment is going to suit your needs.

A kitchen remodeling expert can give you professional advice and a different perspective that you will not find anywhere else. They know what goes well together and what the best layout is for your home.

It Takes Less Time

The remodeling process of your kitchen will most likely last twice because you are not getting any expert opinion. Professional kitchen designers will coordinate a schedule with you, know the right plumber for you, and even figure out how long the flooring cures itself before you can install cabinets. The process ends up taking a lot longer, more confusing, and it might not go as planned if you think you can do the designing on your own.

Professional Commitment

Kitchen planning is a non-stop process and the initial design goes through a couple of changes before the final output. The designer will look closely through all the aspects and will continue to do so until the project is finished.

These are the benefits you will get from hiring a kitchen designer, and looking for the best granite companies Rockville.

13

Aug

What to Consider Before Installing a Kitchen Island

The kitchen is one of the busiest parts of the house, especially if you are fond of preparing home-cooked meals for your family. Your kitchen countertop will play an important role in making your kitchen area productive. Whether you choose to have a quartz countertop or hire granite countertop installers, you should do your own research and choose the right countertop according to your kitchen needs.

If you have extra space in your kitchen, why not add a kitchen island? A kitchen island not only can make a kitchen more interesting but also adds up to your culinary working space. It can also be made from different countertop material whichever your preference is. In such cases, you can hire granite companies or find a quartz countertops dealer for your kitchen island material.

Getting started

Adding a kitchen island may or may not be a luxury in your kitchen area. It depends on whether you need one for your kitchen. Many homeowners can do well without having a kitchen island. On the other hand, it is one of the best kitchen additions a lot of homeowners have ever made.

Nevertheless, having a kitchen island can provide several benefits for homeowners. For one, you can choose from a wide variety of designs and materials that will suit your kitchen needs. It is a nice centerpiece and also a practical solution for an extra workspace while doing your thing in the kitchen. It can help a lot in making your kitchen space more organized and add life to it as well.

What to consider before adding a kitchen island

Before adding an island in your kitchen area, there are several things you need to consider first. As mentioned, having an island can be one of the best additions you can have in your kitchen. It can serve as an additional workspace and storage area for your kitchen area. Plus, it can look good in all types of kitchens.

However, adding a kitchen island may depend on how your kitchen looks like and whether it can be able to accommodate one. That said, here are some factors to consider before hiring quartz countertop contractors for a kitchen island installation.

Space

Contrary to popular belief, you can put an island regardless of the kitchen size you have. That means you would also have to adjust the size of the island depending on the total size of your kitchen. There are also different kitchen island designs you can choose from.

Foot traffic

Once you have already decided on the island you will have installed, make sure you still have enough space to move around the kitchen. Experts recommend installing the island at least 4 feet away from your current kitchen counter.

Purpose

Decide on how you are going to utilize the kitchen island. Do you want it portable with wheels? How about adding a built-in cabinet for extra storage? Or perhaps install a sink on it? The possibilities are endless. You can consult a professional contractor for possible alternatives.

Material

As mentioned, kitchen islands are available in different materials. Some can be made from granite, quartz, concrete, wood, or any other building material. Regardless of your choice, make sure to check the pros and cons of each material in terms of durability, aesthetics, and ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Other things to think about in kitchen island installation

Aside from the abovementioned factors, there are other considerations you need to take note before building a kitchen island. Here are some of them.

Follow the island’s shape according to the kitchen layout.

At the end of the day, you would also want the island to complement the overall look of your kitchen. If you have a rectangular kitchen, the island should be rectangular-shaped as well. It is also better to install the island parallel to the kitchen’s longest wall area.

Make sure to clean the island’s surface regularly.

To ensure the quality of the kitchen island, make sure to clean it properly. This will help make the surface clean and durable at all times.

Plan ahead on how you want the island to look like.

If you want to incorporate a sink or add an appliance on it, make sure to plan ahead. Consult a professional contractor about your plan so they work around it.

Finding a professional kitchen contractor

If you are planning to build a kitchen island, make sure to hire reliable countertop replacement companies near you. Contact professional granite contractors in Montgomery County MD today!

01

Jul

What to Consider Before Choosing a Countertop Replacement Company

All homeowners want to have an attractive home. To achieve that, they should plan on its building elements including the floor tiles material, wall paint color, and furniture to be used. For your kitchen, you would need a sturdy yet stylish countertop that would create a statement on your humble kitchen area. You can choose from different countertop material such as granite countertops that can be installed by professional granite installers near you.

Among kitchen fixtures and appliances, the countertop is perhaps one of the first things that get noticed. It is usually made from different materials – there are quartz countertops, others made from granite, marble, and glass among a few. Choosing the right countertop that will suit your need is one thing. Finding reliable countertop replacement companies is another thing.

What to look for in a reliable countertop supplier

For your home improvement needs, you would only rely on the professionals. This also applies when you are looking for a countertop installer. If you want a new kitchen countertop, you should hire only professional ones to ensure work quality. At the same time, you want to be assured that your newly-installed countertop will last for many years.

You also want your countertop to be one of your house’s attractions, so it is best to choose one from reliable countertop suppliers. Here are some tips in finding the ideal countertop supplier for your kitchen needs.

Do your own research.

There are many ways where you can find granite countertop installers. You can ask for referrals from your friends or find one online. You should check feedback from previous clients in terms with their overall experience working with the countertop contractor. You can also check their sample works for your reference. If most feedback is positive, you may consider giving the countertop company a call.

Have options.

To ensure that you will get the right countertop contractor, you should have several options for comparison purposes. From there, you can ask each contractor the following crucial questions:

  • How long have they been in the countertop installing business?
  • Did their workers undergo professional training?
  • Are the workers insured and treated well?
  • How much do they know about this industry (countertop installation)?
  • Are they currently working on other installation projects as of now? If so, is it possible to have an ocular of the ongoing project?
  • What will be the installation timeline?

Ask for the estimated project cost.

After you have chosen potential contractors from your list, ask for a written estimate from each. This includes the countertop that will be installed, labor costs and other expenses. You can also expect them to conduct an ocular inspection before proceeding with the installation project.

You can also ask questions if there is something unclear on the estimate. You can also negotiate with the price when necessary. Once questions are cleared, the signed estimate will serve as an official project document. The project should be done as smoothly as possible – communication is a major key.

What to consider before buying a countertop

There are a lot of countertop options clients can choose from – ranging from different materials, patterns, and colors that would suit the house interiors and the client’s preference.

You can choose between quartz countertops or any other countertop material of your choice. Among things to consider in choosing a kitchen countertop include:

  • Is there a small actual sample available for your reference?
  • Does the countertop have a warranty?
  • How much is the countertop?
  • How big should the countertop be (depending on your size requirements)?
  • What is the right countertop material that will suit your needs?
  • How easy is it to clean and maintain the countertop?

Other tips in buying a kitchen countertop

Cost is also important if you are looking for a kitchen countertop. However, the cost may depend on several factors such as:

  • Material – depends on the color, design, and availability. It can cost between less than $10 to as much as $500 per square foot.
  • Add-ons – does it have a built-in cabinet and sink? These will also affect the countertop cost.
  • Size and shape – it depends on your needs and the size of your kitchen, so you should consider that as well.

Find a reliable countertop installer near you

There will be at least one professional countertop company near you. Choose a reliable and established countertop replacement companies in Potomac or anywhere else nearby.

04

Jun

Keep your Kitchen Organized and Clutter-Free

The kitchen is perhaps one of the busiest parts of the house. This is where most of the major activities happen in a day. Preparing and cooking food, and enjoying home-cooked meals while bonding with loved ones at the dinner table.

Kitchens have evolved from simply having a refrigerator, stove top, and other kitchen utensils. Nowadays, a lot of homeowners add quartz kitchen countertops to make their kitchen look beyond average. In fact, it’s a nice idea to plan for your kitchen makeover soon, if your budget permits.

On a side note, it may not be necessary to spend too much when planning for a kitchen makeover. Sometimes, all you need for a makeover are already there in your house. Add a little bit of resourcefulness and creativity, and you can now plan and execute your mini-kitchen makeover.

What to store

Seeing unnecessary clutter can be stressful and annoying at the same time. Organizing stuff is no easy task either. We tend to be too sentimental sometimes, that is why we end up piling up unnecessary things and result to clutter.

The same applies when attempting to fix our kitchen. For one thing, quartz countertops are often the unwilling victims of so much kitchen clutter. You can start organizing your kitchen items at this point. Here are some of the most recommended kitchen items you can keep on your granite countertops.

Canisters

Not only can you store stuff in canisters but are also great décors that can add spice to your kitchen. You can also use canisters to put napkins, small snacks, and other small kitchen items to remove unnecessary kitchen clutter.

Dish rack

If you don’t have a dishwasher, a dish rack is a must in every kitchen counter. This is where you can put newly-washed dishes and utensils to dry. On the other hand, you can still use a dish rack even if you have a dishwasher if you plan on using the latter only a few times a week.

Paper towel

Paper towels are also a must in every kitchen counter for your cleaning needs. Make sure to put it on a paper towel holder in an area that is easy to reach such as the sink.

Coffee maker

If you are a morning person who cannot start the day without coffee, it only makes sense to have a coffee maker within reach. Set up a coffee area on your engineered stone countertops and include your favorite cups, mugs, sugar and cream, and teaspoons.

Fruits and vegetable basket

There are many fruits and vegetables that cannot be refrigerated as it can affect their quality. That is why you can place them in a nice-looking bowl or basket. It can add a pop of color in your kitchen. Plus, it will encourage anyone in the house to grab a fruit to eat when you feel like it.

What you can probably store

On the other hand, there are some items that you may put on your quartz kitchen countertops. These are kitchen items that you may need sometimes but not necessarily a “must-have” in your kitchen.

Chopping board

There are a lot of chopping boards shaped in attractive designs and can be nice kitchen decorations. Unless you do a lot of chopping, you may have to store it somewhere but not on the kitchen counter.

Blender/food processor/mixers

Unless you like to make smoothies every day or cook from scratch at most times, this kitchen equipment may be stored somewhere that won’t clutter granite countertops.

Microwave/toaster

These kitchen items can be too bulky and cause clutter on your kitchen counter. Sure, you can place them there if you microwave food or toast bread often.

What you should not store

Lastly, the following items do not belong on your kitchen counter and should be placed elsewhere if you hate clutter.

Tea sets

Unless you often use fancy teacup (including that cute teapot) sets often, these should be placed inside a cabinet for future use.

Other kitchen appliances

This may include items such as food processor, electric mixer, and the like. These items can look too bulky on your kitchen counter. You can store them inside kitchen cabinets and cupboards instead when not in use.

Home décor

Picture frames and figurines do not belong in the kitchen. Place them elsewhere such as in the living room or your home office area.

Are you looking for a new kitchen counter?

Contact countertop replacement companies in Rockville. Choose from a wide variety of kitchen countertop materials that will suit your needs.

24

Apr

How to Improve your Kitchen on A Budget

Many homeowners consider their kitchens as one of the most important parts of their house. This area of the house is the center of daily activities: mostly preparing and cooking fresh, home-cooked meals. It is where families and loved ones bond over sumptuous meals and refreshing drinks. Kitchens are also worth investing for, that is why a lot of homeowners hire countertop replacement companies to take care of their countertop installation.

Investing in a kitchen countertop

It is a known fact that kitchen countertops can be expensive. More so, countertops such as quartz countertops or granite countertops are usually perceived as “only for well-off families”. Sure, it can cost you some cash. However, choosing these types of countertops can be one of the best decisions you can ever make.

These countertops are generally easy to maintain and available in classic designs and colors. You can also hire professional installers to install your kitchen countertop. Just make sure that the countertop replacement companies have positive reviews from actual customers.

Improving your kitchen on a budget

On the other hand, there are still other ways to improve your kitchen even if you have a limited budget. Sure, having quality quartz kitchen tops is a nice “must-have” in every home. However, not all homeowners prefer quartz or granite as countertop material although these have obvious benefits among users.

Nevertheless, home improvement need not be too expensive after all. Kitchen renovations are usually done in stages, or just renovate which part of the kitchen needs to be renovated. Here are some kitchen renovation tips for those on a budget:

  1. Repaint.

This is one cheaper way to give your kitchen a refreshing look. Repaint the kitchen walls, the cabinet, and cupboard, or the dining table and chairs. If you are planning to sell your home, it is important to know which paint colors will most likely appeal to them. Make sure to have the complete tools when you plan to repaint your kitchen.

  1. Replace.

This may be necessary if the kitchen equipment is already outdated or has incurred damage. For example, it may be time to replace your refrigerator if it’s not cooling enough already. Or if some of the kitchen tiles are already chipped.

Even replacing broken cabinet handles or the faucet can make a difference in improving your kitchen’s overall look. You can find the best kitchen tiles, hardware, or equipment replacements online, or you can consult professional installers near you.

  1. Decorate.

This may seem to be an easy thing to do, but adding accessories to your kitchen can make a huge difference. Add fresh flowers, fruits, placemats or colorful vases on your dinner table. If you can, install colorful backsplashes to your sink area to brighten up your kitchen. Change your outlet wall plates into ones with various designs (available online or in nearby hardware stores).

  1. Lighten up.

Upgrade your kitchen lighting, as it can help brighten up your kitchen area. Some lighting fixtures have unique designs that can enhance a room’s appearance. You can find a lot of them online or in hardware stores.

Finding a kitchen contractor

Kitchen remodeling is a major investment for every home. If you want to change your countertop, you should call professional granite countertop installers to do the job. Take note of the following when planning for a kitchen renovation:

  1. Create a plan.

Before calling up a quartz countertops dealer, make sure you have a plan for how you want to renovate your kitchen. Also, determine what your needs really are as well as your target budget.

  1. Ask all the important questions.

Once you have found your prospect contractors, make sure to know about them. Have they been in the business for years or even decades? What are their services offered? What is the usual feedback about them? These are some of the crucial questions you need to know about your future contractor.

  1. Agree on the payment scheme.

Before proceeding on the payment, make sure you have a contract. This is to ensure that you get only what you pay for and the best services from your chosen contractor. Also, the contract should also contain the work plan including the schedule and time and other contractor details. It should also contain the payment schedule including down payment and the balance payment schedule.

Call a professional kitchen contractor today

Contact the best granite companies in Rockville today for your kitchen countertop needs. Get the best from the professionals in the field.

15

Apr

Why You Should Choose Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen countertops have become a normal part of a lot of households around the world. Among popular ones include laminates, marble, concrete, and granite. Nowadays, quartz kitchen countertops are slowly paving its way into the minds of many homeowners as well.

Quartz countertops began gaining popularity in Europe decades ago. Years after, this countertop material eventually reached US shores. In fact, quartz kitchen tops enjoyed as much as 60 percent of total US sales back in 2004.

Quartz is either made from natural stone or engineered slab material. Nonetheless, both options offer high-quality and long-lasting countertop material. That said, quartz is a great addition and a worthwhile investment to your home. Here are some things you need to know when you decide to avail this type of countertop.

The beauty of quartz

Normally, a quartz countertop is made from natural stone slabs. However, there are some that are made from engineered material. These engineered stone countertops have a combination of natural quartz and a small percentage of resins. The end result is a natural-looking, low-maintenance, and durable stone countertop available in different color and design options.

That said, engineered quartz offer more different design and color options than natural stone. Generally, quartz is also easy to install – you can use epoxy or glue instead of screws to hold it in place. Aside from kitchens, quartz can also be used as backsplashes and in the shower room. However, make sure to have it installed only by a professional quartz countertop installer.

Overall benefits

A lot of homeowners love the different colors they can choose from quartz material. More than color options, quartz is also durable and non-porous, hence making it an ideal kitchen countertop. No matter whether it’s natural or engineered/mixed, these countertops offer a similar level of quality that is worth the price.

In addition, quartz is stain and corrosion-resistant as well as easy to maintain. On the downside, it may be more vulnerable to excessive heat, so it may be advisable to use heating pads to protect the countertop surface.

As for the cost, these types of countertops become cheaper as they become more popular over the years. However, quartz may be more expensive than other countertop materials such as laminate. Nonetheless, quartz – whether natural or engineered – offers high-quality and value for your home.

Other perks

Among other benefits to take note of when you’re contemplating to buy a quartz countertop include the following:

  1. High resale value

Quality countertops such as made from quartz enhance your home’s resale value. This is due to the beauty and quality quartz material can provide at a lower cost. That said, quartz countertops can make your home look elegant and classy at an affordable price.

  1. Versatile

Quartz is either made from natural stone slabs or a mix of natural quartz and polyester resins. Some are even made with a mix of recycled glass instead of resins, giving it a unique appeal. Plus, it is available in different color options you can choose from. It can complement all types of home – whether yours have a contemporary or modern theme.

  1. Durable and easy to maintain

Unlike other countertop materials, quartz is stain-resistant and non-porous, making it easy maintenance. You don’t have to worry if your child spills his or her drink too often – simply wipe it clean using a microfiber or paper towel, water, and mild soap and you’re done!

  1. Hygienic

As mentioned, quartz is a non-porous material that makes cleaning a breeze. It also lessens the risk of contamination against bacteria and dirt during food preparation. Quartz is also easier to clean than other natural stone materials. Hence, quartz kitchen countertops are indeed the best material you can ever have in your home.

Find high-quality countertops from the best suppliers near you

Given the above benefits of quartz, you should have already realized how this can be a great investment for your home. It may be expensive for some homeowners, but its perks will all be worth it. After all, who doesn’t want only the best accessories and materials for their respective homes?

If you want to have your own quartz countertop for your home, make sure to find the best quartz countertop contractors in Rockville. You will surely love the results once you have your new countertop installed!

Why Engineered Stone Countertops are a Good Addition to your Kitchen

A kitchen countertop is a great addition to your kitchen area. It can serve as an extension area when preparing and cooking your meals. High-quality countertops can also serve as your extra storage area. There are a lot of kitchen countertop materials you can choose from, such as engineered stone countertops.

What is an “engineered stone” countertop?

Technically, “engineered stone” is a term that refers to the combination of resin and crushed stone. The former serves as a binder that holds the material together and is specially made to form a durable and usable countertop material.

The crushed stone and resin binder are combined using pressure and heat method. The process results to a slab added pigments for coloration and polished for gloss or matte finishing. Engineered stone countertops are non-porous, which is a big plus if you are looking for a good countertop.

Countertops made from an engineered stone may also have quartz material in it. Quartz kitchen countertops are also popular. However, a lot of quartz countertops are not 100 percent quartz. Rather, some of these quartz kitchen tops have a combination of other materials other than quartz.

Benefits and downsides

Countertops made from engineered stone have its set of advantages other than aesthetic appeal. Among these are the following:

  1. Resembles natural stone

A slab of engineered stone resembles real stone slab material, including texture and color. However, engineered stone offers different tones and colors, unlike natural stone. Plus, it feels like natural stone, so it is also a good option if you are a fan of natural stone material.

  1. Durable and can last longer

Engineered stone is meant to last and won’t scratch that easily. It is also heat-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about leaving scorch marks on the countertop. It also won’t easily crack and can maintain its natural luster for many years. Still, it is advisable to use a chopping board when cutting up vegetables and other food.

  1. Ease of maintenance

Because engineered countertops are non-porous, clean-up is supposed to be a breeze. Non-porous materials mean bacteria and dirt cannot seep through that can damage the countertop in the long run. Plus, engineered countertops are waterproof so you can simply wipe out any oil, any liquid, and dirt on its surface and prevent staining it.

On the other hand, engineered countertops also have its disadvantages. Among these are the following:

  1. It can be expensive.

Although engineered countertops may vary in cost, it can be expensive nonetheless. It will depend on the manufacturer as well as the process involved. After all, it is not just a simple countertop made from cheap materials.

  1. It won’t replace real stone.

Then again, it depends on your personal taste. Although engineered countertops largely resemble real stone, it won’t be the “real” thing – unless this is a big deal for you.

  1. Dirt can still collect on its seams.

Apparently, engineered stone slabs contain visible seams along the countertop. These seams can still collect dirt and food remnants which can result in potential contamination. Plus, it can be hard to clean these kinds of dirt when left ignored for a long time.

Is an engineered countertop a good choice for you?

Whatever your choice is, it is important to consider your options carefully. A good kitchen countertop is a worthwhile investment for your home. That said, choosing an engineered kitchen countertop is a great choice as well. Just make sure to find the best among the bunch at a quartz countertops dealer only.

Here are some tips that can help you decide when going countertop-shopping:

  1. Choose the engineered stone surface type you need.

Aesthetics will be a major deciding factor. However, it is important to choose one that you really need. Also, the material should also complement your kitchen including the pattern, color, and texture.

  1. Ask for price quotes.

Engineered stone can vary depending on the color, pattern, and other process involved. Some may actually offer lower costs unlike other manufacturers, so do your own research.

Get only the best high-quality countertops for your kitchen

Choosing the best countertop for your kitchen can be a tedious task. Once you find the right kitchen countertop, make sure to contact only the best countertop replacement companies in Rockville.