16

Sep

Do Granite Countertops Need Special Care?

Granite countertops are one of the most popular countertop materials in the market. Due to their popularity and high-end perception, you might have the impression that they require specialized care.

Do granite countertops need special care? Absolutely not. In fact, they are one of the easiest countertops to maintain.

To keep your counters in top shape, you need to:

Seal them

Granite is porous, meaning that when you pour water and other liquids on it, the water will get into the inner layers, where it puts the countertops at the risk of staining.

To protect your countertops, you should seal them the first thing after installing them.

If you have a busy kitchen, it’s common for the sealant to wear off after a few months or a year, so it’s wise that you test the countertops and confirm that they are ready for resealing.

How do you do it? One of the most effective tests you can do is the water absorption test. Here you pour water on the countertops and let the puddle stay there for at least 10 minutes. If the water gets absorbed and the countertop turns a shade dark, the sealer has most likely worn off, and it’s time to reapply it.

Whether sealing or resealing the countertops, ensure that you use a high-quality sealant that will provide your countertops with the protection they need and at the same time last for a long time.

Clean the countertops daily

The last thing you want are countertops caked with dust and debris. Such countertops are not only unpleasant to look at, but they also tend to be hygienic, which puts you at the risk of suffering from a myriad of diseases.

To clean the countertops, you need a lint-free cloth or paper towel and water. Remove all the dirt and debris on the countertops, then dry the surface with a clean cloth or paper towel.

You might be tempted to clean the surfaces with abrasive cleaners such as ammonia to get the perfect look, but don’t. These cleaners will destroy the protective sealant on the countertops, so you are forced to reseal the surfaces.

Get rid of spills as soon as they happen.

Spills are one of the biggest granite enemies, so you should remove them as soon as they happen. You might argue that the sealant will prevent the water from getting into the deeper layers, but this isn’t the case.

It’s true that the sealant will prevent the water from absorbing fast, but when you leave the liquids on the surfaces for too long, they will soon get to the inner layers and stain the countertops. You don’t want this, do you?

To ensure that it doesn’t happen, don’t take chances. Even if the sealant halts the liquids from getting absorbed, failing to wipe off the liquids will be as good as if you hadn’t sealed the countertops in the first place so, when a spill happens, move with haste and remove it.

Protect the surfaces from heat

Like with many other countertop materials, heat will damage your granite surfaces, so you should protect them as much as possible.

One of the things you should do is to never place hot pots and pans directly on the countertops. This is because hot cooking items give the countertops ugly stains that you have to replace them.

To protect the surfaces, always have heat pads and trivets in place at all times. Even with these in place, let the pot cool for a little bit before placing it on the countertops.

Besides protecting your countertops from heat, you also should protect them from knife scratches. This calls for you to never cut anything directly on the countertops. Instead, use a cutting board.

Install the countertops properly

You can put all the maintenance measures in place, but it’s all useless if you haven’t properly installed the countertops. So, the first thing you should do is have the countertops expertly installed by experienced and certified granite contractors Rockville.

When hiring the contractors, take your time and ensure that the contractor has installed similar countertops before and know what they are doing.

08

Sep

What Happens If You Don’t Seal Granite Countertops?

If you have been around natural stone countertops, you know you need to seal them to keep them looking their best, but have you ever asked yourself what happens if you don’t seal granite countertops? Here are some of the things that can happen:

Stains from food and grease

When you don’t seal your countertops, they tend to quickly absorb food and liquids, leading to deep stains. Since the countertops are bare, the stains develop within a matter of minutes, even if you are quick to wipe the spill.

The countertops not only absorb liquids, but grease and pigments as well. For example, if you leave a carton of strawberries on your countertops, it’s only a matter of a few minutes, and you find a large stain on your countertops that is hard to remove.

Stains from water

Properly sealed granite will repel liquids and prevent them from permeating into the stone. As mentioned above, an unsealed stone absorbs liquids fast, including water. You might have the impression that something as natural as water can’t harm your countertops, but this isn’t the case.

In an unsealed countertop, water will penetrate, leaving behind watermarks which give your stone an ugly, dirty appearance.

Damage from cleaning products

Vinegar and other harsh cleaning products will damage even the sealed surfaces, but unsealed countertops are more susceptible to damage. Since you haven’t sealed the surfaces, the products that aren’t supposed to harm the surfaces end up hurting them.

For example, products containing citrus quickly eat away at the countertop, seep into the stone and damage the finish, causing discoloration. When you seal the surfaces, you plug the cracks and tiny fissures in the stone, keeping the products from going deep into the stone. As a result you can clean the countertops without worrying about damaging them.

Sealing is straightforward

To keep your countertops in top shape, you should seal them at the time of installation then once a year thereafter. While countertop sealing is such an important task, it’s not complex.

Begin with finding a good quality countertop sealer designed to resist water and oil-based stains. Before you apply the sealer, clean the surfaces, and ensure there are no stains on them.

For best results, work in small areas, giving the sealer time to absorb into the slab before applying the second layer. After covering the entire surface, give the countertops a few hours to dry before using them.

Other ways to maintain granite

Other than sealing it, there are plenty of other things you need to do to ensure your countertop lasts for a long time. These things include:

Don’t step on the countertops

Granite is tough, but it can’t withstand a lot of pressure, especially along the edges. When you are looking to reach onto the top shelf, it’s tempting to step onto the countertops. After all, they are made from stone, right? At no time should you step on granite.

If you have to reach on to something on the top shelf, use a ladder or stool.

Don’t place hot items directly on the countertops.

Granite can withstand heat, but when you repeatedly place hot pans on it, you are bound to discolor it or even cause extensive damage. To ensure your countertops last for a long time, avoid placing hot pans, pots, and other items directly on the surfaces. Instead, use pads, trivets, and other protective materials.

Watch your cleaning products.

As mentioned above, even sealed countertops can get damaged by tough cleaning products, so stay away from them. As a rule of thumb, avoid products bearing acids as they will etch at the surfaces or even discolor your valuable surfaces.

Its recommend you use water and soap to clean the countertops. If the surfaces are too dirty and want to use other cleaning products, first enquire from the countertop company whether you can use it.

Don’t cut directly on the surfaces.

The same way certain homeowners have the impression the countertops are tough, so they can step on them, it’s the same way they think they can get away with cutting onions, meat, and other materials directly on them.

Granite companies Rockville strongly advise against this as it not only damages the countertops, but also your knife. When looking to cut anything on the surface, use a cutting board.

30

Jun

Common Types Of Granite Countertops Damage

Like any other countertop material, granite countertops suffer different forms of damage. Some are simple, and you can easily fix them on your own while others are complex, and you have to ask a professional to take a look at them. In some cases the damage is so extensive you have to replace the entire countertop slab.

Some of the damage your countertops can have include:

Separating seam joints

This happens when the adhesive is falling apart. If the seams are coming apart several years after installation, it could be due to old age, but if you recently installed the countertops and they are coming apart, it might be due to improper installation.

Seams come apart if they are too large, the contractor used the wrong epoxy, or the contractor didn’t put enough work into them.

To fix the problem, you need to contact a reputable professional and ask them to inspect the countertops and find out what they can do to fix the problem.

Chips along the countertop edges

Countertops will develop chips along the edges, especially where most of the cooking happens. The chips come about due to constant contact of the cooking utensils with the countertops.

To fix this issue, ask a professional store technician to inspect the chipped surfaces carefully. The contractor should then prepare the area and apply a color matching epoxy material. An experienced professional won’t have a problem fixing the area and hiding the etched surfaces.

Dullness around the sink

It’s normal for countertops to dull around the sink area due to the activities that take place there. Since the surfaces are in constant contact with water and exposed to cutting activities, granite tends to dull and even wear and tear out fast.

Luckily, you can restore the dullness with a diamond refinishing system. Ask a professional technician to help you out, and you will restore your countertops to as good as new.

Cracks

Cracks completely spoil the aesthetic appeal of the house. Luckily, if the cracks are small, you can fix them, but if they are large, you have no way out other than to replace the entire countertop slab.

Cracks on the countertops come about due to plenty of reasons that include:

  • Poorly glued joints
  • Installation of the countertops on uneven surfaces
  • Failing to give glue enough time to settle
  • Putting a lot of weight at the center of the countertop

If the cracks are small, you can easily fix them with adhesives; however, if they are deeper, you may have to remove the damaged portion, then replace it with a better one. Countertop installers sometimes use special fillers when they feel the cracks aren’t too large to warrant replacement.

When choosing filler, choose one that sticks effectively to your countertops.

Staining

You will have your countertops staining around stoves and cooktops. If you haven’t sealed your counters, the surfaces will absorb oil-based stains and darken. To restore your countertops to their former glory, you need to use Poultice.

Apply the material on the stained area and cover it with a plastic seal. Over time, the solution will dry and turn to powder that will absorb the oil stain. If you find the stain isn’t going away, you can reapply Poultice as many times as you want until all the stains are gone.

Water damage

They say water is life, but did you know it can be deadly to your countertops? The effect is worse if you have a small kitchen. If you haven’t sealed your countertops, water will get to the inner layers and stain your surfaces

Luckily, in most cases, the stain goes away when water evaporates. If water was stained (such as in juice), you have to ask a professional technician to help you out.

High-temperature effect

Granite counters are known for their toughness and ability to withstand high temperatures; however, when you introduce extremely high temperatures at once, the counters are bound to get damaged.

For example, when you carelessly place a hot pan (straight from a flame), directly on the surfaces, you will damage the countertops. Granite companies Potomac recommend you try salvaging the ugly spots using toothpaste. If this doesn’t remove the spots, replace the countertops.

12

Jun

How to Protect Your Kitchen Countertop Surface

A nice countertop can enhance your kitchen’s appearance. There are also kitchen countertop materials you can choose from. For example, there are quartz kitchen countertops, granite countertops, and many more. Regardless of your choice, you should only hire a professional quartz countertop installer for your kitchen.

The countertop is one of the first things that visitors may notice in your home. As mentioned, it is available in different materials, textures, and patterns. Nonetheless, all countertops need regular care and maintenance to ensure their durability and long-term aesthetic value. Its cleaning requirements and techniques will depend on the countertop material, which is why you should know your countertop’s material beforehand.

There are commercial cleaners available for countertops. On the other hand, you can also try making your own cleaner using natural ingredients. You will need:

  • 16 oz. spray bottle filled with 1 cup of distilled white vinegar and a cup of water
  • 3 drops of tea tree oil
  • 3 drops of grapefruit essential oil

Combine these ingredients in the spray bottle and shake well before using. Spray the mixture onto the countertop surface and wipe thoroughly. But before trying this, make sure to test it first to ensure it won’t discolor the countertop or cause adverse effects.

On granite countertop maintenance

Granite countertops are one of the most popular countertop materials available. It has a porous material with a beautifully-polished yet delicate finishing. That is why countertop replacement companies would advise against dragging kitchen tools on its surface as it can scratch the countertop finishing. Here are other tips for granite countertop maintenance.

  • Do not cut food directly on its surface as it can cause scratches and damage its surface.
  • Avoid spilling acidic liquids such as citrus-based juices, soft drinks, and vinegar onto the granite surface.
  • Use a wet cloth with a gentle detergent to clean the countertop surface. Apply sealer once a year.

On marble countertop maintenance

Like granite, the marble material is also porous, meaning it can absorb liquids that can stain its surface. That is why you should wipe any spills on its surface as soon as it occurs. Here are some tips on maintaining a marble countertop.

  • Do not use abrasive pads on cleaning marble countertops.
  • Use a gentle dishwashing detergent to clean the countertop’s surface.
  • Use a microfiber cloth and a cleaning solution suitable for marble surface. Mix 3 tbsps. of baking soda and 1 quartz of lukewarm water and wipe it onto the surface. Let it dry for two hours before rinsing with water and drying using a clean and smooth cloth.

On wood countertop maintenance

Another popular countertop material is wood. For one, it looks rustic. However, it can be prone to burn marks. That is why you should use a hot plate or any other type of padding to protect the wooden countertop material. Here are other tips to care for your wooden countertop.

  • Use a cutting board when chopping vegetables and other kinds of foods.
  • The wood material is also prone to stains. Wipe any spills from the surface the moment it occurs.
  • Use food-grade mineral oil to “massage” the wood countertop. Using a clean cloth, rub the countertop with warm mineral oil. Let it sit for around 20 to 30 minute before wiping off excess oil.
  • You can wash wood material too. Just don’t let it sit for too long or it can affect the material’s durability.
  • For light stains, rub it with sliced lemon and salt. Let it sit overnight and rinse with water. For darker stains, wipe it with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide poured onto a cotton ball and blot the stain.

On maintaining non-porous countertop materials

Among common non-porous countertop materials include glass, laminate, and stainless steel. Quartz kitchen tops are also considered non-porous. These are easier to clean, unlike the previously-mentioned countertop materials. Here are some tips for their care and maintenance.

  • Use protective covers such as cutting boards or a trivet to protect the countertop’s surface.
  • Use soap and water to clean the countertop surface.
  • Use commercial countertop cleaners suitable for the countertop material.
  • Avoid using abrasive pads as they can cause scratches on the surface. For stubborn stains, mix detergent and hot water and scrub the surface using a soft-bristled cleaning pad.

These are some of the best tips to care for your kitchen countertop. For your countertop needs, look for the best granite companies in Potomac and check out their sample works, too.

 

19

Dec

The Different Kinds of Counter top Finish

The kitchen countertop will give your home a new look, and it’s therefore important to choose the right color, pattern and the countertop finish that suits your kitchen. It’s important to visit several granite companies and check the several countertops finishes available and choose the one that will cater to your needs and bring out your style. Make sure you review the materials available at the quartz countertop dealer and determine which one works for your kitchen. When choosing a countertop below the consideration, you need to make;

  • Color and pattern you want

There are different tones and hues, patterns to choose. Make sure you choose the one that will work for your house. You can consult the granite contractor on the best color and patterns for your countertop.

  • Type of countertop material that suits your kitchen

Do you want a granite countertop, quartz countertop or marble? Discuss your countertop needs with the granite installer and choose one that works for you

  • Countertop edge that will work for you

There is a different kind of countertop edges. If you have a family make sure you choose the edge that will not harm your young children as they move around the kitchen.

  • Top finish and feel

There are different kinds of countertop finish, and in this article, we delve deep and tell you about them.

Types of Countertop Finish

  • Polished Finish

Polished finish is one of the most common finish, especially on granite kitchen countertops. It’s one of the most common countertop finish and most people tend to go for this finish. It gives the countertop a gloss, reflective and smooth feel and it’s one of the finish you will find it in most homes. A polished finish has the following advantages

  • It makes the countertop less porous, and the smooth nature of the finish makes it easy to clean. A polished finish is therefore ideal for a restaurant or high traffic kitchen.
  • When the countertop is polished, it’s easy to see the color and character of the stone. The highly reflective mirror surface will make your kitchen look more elegant and luxurious.
  • A Polished surface is more stain resistant and doesn’t require sealing often.

The granite installer makes a polished surface through honing and buffing which is grounding the countertop with smooth abrasives until it becomes shiny. When well maintained the countertop will be shiny for years, and if it loses the shine, the honing and buffing process can be repeated. To keep your countertop looking shiny for long make sure;

  • Clean the countertop often with the right materials. Seal the countertop when necessary
  • Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials on the countertop

A polished finish will make your countertop the center of attraction, and it’s, therefore, important to make sure you complement it with other appliances and other surfaces.

  • Honed Finish

It’s also known as the matte finish, and it’s smooth and creates a satiny feel. When the surface is honed, it will not reflect but will redistribute light and give your kitchen countertop a rustic beauty. A honed surface is made by buffing, but it’s not made to shine. A honed surface will conceal any flaws on the countertops. With a honed finish, you will not be able to see the color and texture of the countertop, and it stains easily.  A honed finish works better on marble countertop because it retains the veining and contrast in the marble. The main disadvantage of a honing a kitchen countertop is that the color of the countertop may fade.

  • Leathered Finish

A leathered finish will bring out the natural characteristics of the stone. The finish is created using an abrasive diamond brush and results in a texture that resembles leather. The leather finish doesn’t reflect any light and gives the countertop a more natural look. The finish is perfect for high traffic kitchen because the leathering process seals the pores of the countertop and its nonreflective nature conceals the flaws. If you have an outdoor countertop the leathered finish is perfect. To keep the countertop looking good, use a cloth and a cleaning agent to clean the surface daily. It’s ideal for dark granite countertop because it retains the color of the stone. A leathered surface highly stains resistant and hides imperfections.

  • Flamed Finish

Just like the name suggest a flamed finish is created by exposing the countertop to extreme heat. The high heat levels cause the countertop grains to burst and change color results in faded appearance. A flamed finish is perfect for an outdoor kitchen. The only natural stone that can be flamed is granite.

  • Caressed Finish

Caressed finish is created by adding shine to a leathered finish. Areas that have bumps on the countertop are polished to give your countertop an elegant and a rugged surface. Caressed finish is perfect for granite countertops because it seals the pores of the countertop

There are other finishes such as river washed and Tuscan which is mainly decorative.

Visit the quartz -granite installers Rockville and consult on the best finish. Make sure you choose the finish that will suit your kitchen. Follow the care procedure as instructed and you can enjoy a beautiful countertop for ages.

09

Oct

How to Clean and Take Care of Your Outdoor Kitchen Counter tops

Your outdoor kitchen countertop makes your home more appealing and its therefore important that you keep the countertop clean and well mantained.  Its imperative that your countertop is well maintained to keep your outdoor kitchen looking beautiful for years. Your granite countertop installers Rockville will advise you on how best to take care if your countertop depending on the functionality of your kitchen. The outdoor kitchen countertop is an investment and it’s therefore important that you follow the right maintenance and care procedure.

Consideration to Make when Choosing an Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material

  • Functionality

It’s important to consider the use of the outdoor kitchen. If it’s a  busy kitchen consider using granite countertop as its one of the best material that will last for years and still look good.

  • Environment

Some countertop materials will fade and lose shine in a harsh environment. It’s therefore important that you choose a material that can withstand all the weather elements. Marble countertops may fade with time and you need to choose a countertop material that can withstand the weather elements without fading or crumbling.

  • Style

What style does want to bring out? Talk to the expert at the granite company and they will advise you on which is the best material for your outdoor kitchen.

  • Budget

Consider your budget and choose the material that fits your budget. The quartz countertop dealers will be able to give a quotation on the various materials available and the cost of each.

Cleaning and taking care of your  Outdoor Granite Countertops

The granite countertop installer will give tips and advise on how to keep your granite countertop looking good. The granite countertop should be sealed after installation and the sealant should be well maintained to prevent your countertop from damage. Depending on how often you use your outdoor kitchen make sure your granite kitchen countertop is well taken care of and maintained. Below some steps on how to take care of your outdoor kitchen countertop 

  • Clean your countertop regularly. Make sure that you clean the countertop every day using mild water and soap to clean your countertop after use. Avoid abrasive cleaning materials as that will make the top dull.
  • Avoid overloading the countertop. When not in use make sure that there are no objects placed on the countertop. Don’t sit or stand on the countertop.
  • In case of tough stains use baking soda paste to clean the countertop. Once you have mixed baking powder with water, apply it on the countertop and let it sit for minutes before cleaning it off. Make sure you clean off any spill immediately.
  • While cutting meat and other foodstuffs avoid cutting directly as that will result in scratch marks.
  •  If you are not using the countertop for prolonged periods make sure your countertop is well protected from the harsh weather. You can install shade over the countertop. Even the best countertop will fade under harsh weather conditions.
  • Clean your granite with shine enhancer  from time to time to keep it looking good

Taking care of  Outdoor Engineered Stone countertops

Engineered stone is made from minerals and held together by a resin binder. Examples of engineered stone include quartz countertop, engineered marble, and polymer concrete.

Cleaning Engineered countertops

  • Engineered stone is nonporous making it easy to clean and maintain. To clean the countertop use warm water and soap.
  • Use nonabrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the countertop
  • When scrubbing off stuck foodstuff use a plastic putty knife.

Tips to Keep your Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Looking Good

  • Make sure your granite countertop is properly sealed.
  • Cover your countertop when  not in use to protect it from the harsh weather elements
  • Clean the countertop after use. In case of stains speak to the quartz countertop installers on the best combination to clean the countertop
  • Make sure you use the right countertop material for your outdoor kitchen

The outdoor kitchen lets your family enjoy a meal away from the hot kitchen. It’s therefore important that you take good care of the countertop. Make sure that you speak to the granite -Quartz installers on how best to take care of your countertop. How well you take care of the granite countertop or the quartz ocuntertop will determine how durable and good looking it will be.

19

Sep

Most Popular Kitchen Countertops Colors

Without a well-done kitchen countertop, it will be hard to have a functional kitchen. The countertop you use will make your kitchen stand out and give your home value. If you are thinking about remodeling it’s important to choose the right color and style for your kitchen to bring out an elegant look. In this article, we look at the most popular countertop colors. In case you are not sure what colors you should use to match or complement your kitchen cabinets speak to the experts at the granite companies and they will help you choose the best color.

Factors to consider when Choosing the color of your Kitchen Countertop

  • Color theme and matching accessories

Matching the countertop color to your cabinets color will make it more gorgeous. Take note of the pattern on the floor and lower cabinet and choose the color that will match or complement the colors. It’s important to choose a color that will match with a lot of other colors just in case you change the color of your cabinets later. Consider the undertones in the room and that will help you decide the color to choose.

  • Style

Different colors will bring out a different style. Colors like white look good and match with different cabinetry. white bring simplicity and sophistication.

  • Traffic and activity in the kitchen

If you run a restaurant while white may bring out sophistication and class, it may be hard to maintain. Black is more suitable for the very busy kitchen as its easy to maintain.

Most Popular Kitchen Countertop Colors

Below are some of the most popular kitchen countertop. If you are remodeling your kitchen below are colors you should choose.

  • Softy Veined White

A quartz or a granite countertop in white with flecks or grains will bring a contemporary, fresh and clean feel to the room. White is one of the most admired countertop colors as it gives your kitchen an ultra-fine feel. In less busy kitchens white is the perfect color as that will give the kitchen a natural richness, sense of cleanliness and makes the kitchen look sophisticated. White also makes it easy to match with lighting giving your kitchen regal look.

White countertops are ideal if:

  • You want the kitchen space to look big and light
  • If you want to have a modern and traditional look in your kitchen

 

  • Black or Dark Countertops

Black or dark countertop may appear very traditional, but they are perfect to harmonize your kitchen. Dark countertops match well with the dark cabinet. If you install a dark countertop that gives you more options for cabinetry and lights. Dark countertops will bring out the color of cabinets. To make your kitchen look good make sure you have a lot of lights as that will make your kitchen look comfortable and sophisticated. If your kitchen cabinets are dark, dark countertop are the perfect color to match and compliment your countertop.

Dark or black countertops are good for you if:

  •  If your kitchen has dark cabinets and you want to match
  • You have colored cabinets then a black countertop is perfect to complement the cabinets
  • If you have smoky and mirrored backsplash
  • If you want to achieve a black and white theme

 

  • Grey

Grey and other colors such as beiges or creams are neutral counter colors. Creamy countertops add a peaceful look to your kitchen. Gray will give your kitchen a contemporary look and its perfect to pair with colorful cabinets.

Grey countertop is ideal if;

  • You want a neutral color for your kitchen
  • If you have colorful cabinets
  • If your theme is black and white, gray will soften the look

 

  • Dramatic colors

Boldly veined countertops will make your kitchen look amazing. The more dramatic your countertop the less dramatic colors you want to add. If your countertop has bold veining, consider using less daring colors in your cabinetry and backsplash.

Dramatic countertops are good for you if:

  • If your kitchen is large
  • To make the countertop to stand out
  • If your cabinets are dark

The first step is identifying the countertop that works best for your kitchen. Whether it’s granite countertop, quartz countertop or engineered stone make sure it will suit your kitchen. Once you have selected the countertop, its time to pick out the color that will match and complement the kitchen cabinets and an accessories best way to pick the best color for your kitchen countertop is to visit the quartz countertop dealer and take-home samples to compare with your cabinetry. Pick the granite-marble countertop color Rockville that will give your kitchen that regal effect.

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.

09

May

How to Choose the Best Countertop for an Outdoor Kitchen

If you are an avid cook, then the kitchen is the focal point of your daily life and its functionality and beauty is an important aspect for you and family. There is a various aspect that makes the kitchen have the aesthetic value and functionality we all love that includes finding the right granite countertop installers, right flooring material, and cabinets that suit your kitchen needs.

What if your kitchen is outdoor? What do you need to make it look as fashionable and trendy as you would hope for and yet serve the function. When designing an outdoor kitchen there are various factors to consider. One of the most important section of an outdoor kitchen to consider is the kitchen countertop to use, but before we go to the materials that are best for the outdoor kitchen countertop, we look at what factors do you consider while choosing the materials for your outdoor kitchen.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Materials for an Outdoor Kitchen

  • Weather Conditions

The material you choose should be able to withstand fluctuating weather conditions. The Cabinetry materials that you use should not absorb moisture or crack due to the heat outside. Whether it’s the granite countertop, quartz or engineered stone countertop, it should be able to withstand the extreme weather conditions. Involve your granite contractors as they will be able to help choose the best surface for an outdoor kitchen countertop. Your quartz countertop dealer has the experience and knowledge and will advise accordingly. Granite countertops are top of the list when it comes to countertops as they can withstand hot and cold conditions.

  • Exposure Levels

Is your outdoor kitchen fully exposed or its partly? Depending on the level of exposure choose materials that are durable and will able to withstand the weather and still look good. The flooring material you choose should not fade due to the sun or absorb moisture. Your kitchen countertop should be able to withstand the level of exposure . The material should be fade free, heat resistant to ensure that the countertop serves you for long while its still good looking.

  • Function and Elements to include

How often is the kitchen going to be in use and what the purpose of the kitchen? Depending on the use choose materials that can withstand traffic. It’s also important to decide what elements and appliances you want in the kitchen. If the kitchen is near the house you may not need to have the refrigerator in the outdoor kitchen.

  • Space Available

Look at the available and decide on the how your kitchen will look like, how much space you have determined the size of the quartz kitchen countertop. The space available will help choose the appliances, cabinets, and equipment you have in your kitchen. Ensure that your kitchen space is optimized.

Choosing the Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material

Choose the countertop material wisely for durability and longevity

  • Quartz

The wide variety of colors and styles of the quartz countertops makes it ideal for outdoor kitchen, but the resin used in bonding the countertop together may not handle extreme temperatures. Use quart for the countertop if there is no complete exposure and the temperatures are not extreme.

  • Marble

Marble comes in a variety of colors but can’t stand prolonged exposure to weather elements. it’s therefore not ideal for outdoor as it will not last. You can, however, use the countertop on a table worktop that you move after use.

  • Granite

Granite is all time favorite and remains one of the best kitchen countertop material because of its ability to withstand both hot and cold and even wet conditions. Proper care and maintenance will ensure the countertop looks good for long. The variety of color and its natural aesthetic make a granite countertop ideal for your outdoor.

To get the best out of your outdoor kitchen consult the granite-quartz-marble countertops installers Rockville at the granite companies on the best outdoor material based on the above factors. The granite-marble-quartz colors should complement the outdoor kitchen to give the regal effect it deserves. The quartz countertop installers should be able to do the installation and give the kitchen the best functionality it deserves and you can enjoy your cooking as you overlook the beach or that mountain or town.