19

Jul

How to Choose a Counter top Replacement Company

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

How to Select the Best Kitchen Countertop

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

  • Quartz Kitchen Countertops
  • Granite countertops
  • Engineered stone countertops

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

  • Budget

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

  • Use of the Countertop

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

  • Style

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

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

How to Choose a Countertop Replacement Company

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

  • Expertise and Experience

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

  • Ask for Recommendations

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

  • Get a quotation

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

  • Choose a company with the necessary equipment

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

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

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

09

Jul

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

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

Steps to Choosing the Bathroom Vanity

When choosing a bathroom vanity, consider the following;

  • Consider the use of the bathroom Vanity

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

  • Decide where the vanity will be placed

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

  • Look out for obstacles

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

  • How much Storage do you require

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

  • Pick out the Material you want for the Vanity

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

  • Personal Style

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

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity

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

  • Size

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

  • Number of sinks

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

  • Mounting Design

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

  • Countertop Material

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

Tips for Easy Installation of the Bathroom Vanity

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

29

Jun

Granite Counter top Installation Process

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

Granite Installation Process

  • Visit the Showroom

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

  • Decide on your Sink

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

  • Choose the Granite Edge profile

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

  • Install the Granite

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

Tips to Ensure a Smooth Granite Countertop Installation

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

How to Choose a Granite Installer

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

  • Expertise and Knowledge

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

  • Labour Cost

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

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

29

May

6 Most Stylish Kitchen Counter top Edges

The shape of your countertop edge can have a huge impact on your kitchen as it plays a major role in safety, cleanliness of your kitchen and the aesthetics of your kitchen. Your quartz kitchen countertop edge is important to the final visual look of your kitchen. The edge profile is the surface you will come into contact as you make the delicious dishes in your kitchen and it’s therefore important that the edge you choose can be maintained easily and guarantee safety. The granite installers or the quartz countertop installer will play a key role in helping you choose the edge profile that suits your kitchen.

Types of Countertop Edge Profile

  • Eased Edges

The profile has all sides squared and its one of the most basic kitchen countertop edges. The basic edges are square with a slightly eased top and it’s the simplest and most commonly used edge profile. The edge profile will give your granite countertop a thick look especially if you have a small kitchen. If you want minimal cleaning then this is the profile to have on your quartz countertop.It’s important that you involve an expert to be able to choose the right edge for your countertop.

Advantages

  • Gives your kitchen a clean, contemporary look
  • Easy to clean and maintain

 

  • Bullnose Edges

The edge profile works well with different kitchen countertop materials and its one of the versatile edge profile. Its characterized by rounded edges from the top to bottom making it delicate. Its suitable for high traffic areas, and where you have kids going in and out of the kitchen. The half bull nose is mostly used on granite countertops giving your kitchen a more elegant look. The bullnose edges will make your countertop thicker and highlight the beauty of your countertop. The edge profile is not recommended for wet areas.

Advantages

  • Gives your countertop timeless appeal
  • Soft rounded edges for safety

 

  • Bevelled Edges

The clipped flat corner shaped with a 45-degree bevelled edges will give your kitchen a contemporary look. They are easier to clean but when there are spills they tend to spread too quickly. You can ask the granite installer to customize the countertop edges and angles to match your needs and enhance the edges. The bevel can either be single bevel or double bevel

Single Bevel is a popular edge used on granite countertops usually has a 45 degree

Double Bevel will work best if you want a greater impact and extra dimension for your countertop. It has double 45 degrees at the top and the bottom. It will make your kitchen appear more luxurious and brighter

Advantages

  • Gives your countertop greater accent edge and also gives the countertop a classic look

 

  • Ogee Edges

The profile has a waterfall like an appearance with a dip and then a less gradual dip. Its labor intensive and is considered one of the classic and dignified profiles. It will be more expensive than the other edges as it requires more time and labor. The ogee edges work best in large spaces and require greater care when it comes to cleaning and maintenance

Advantages

  • Gives your kitchen a classic and regal effect

 

  • Chiseled Edges

The chiseled edges resemble rough stones and it gives you a more natural look. Its perfect for that outdoor kitchen. To ensure safety you have the edges sealed. The chiseled edges are unique and it’s perfect if you want to make a design statement.

Advantages

  • Gives your outdoor kitchen the natural look you are trying to achieve

 

  • Laminated Ogee over the full Bullnose

When the second layer of granite is placed over the bottom edge of your countertop, then it’s said to be laminated. That will make the countertop appear thicker allowing you to have a variety of edges. The edge profile will be costly but gives your house a complicated and elegant look.

It’s important that your edge is done by the granite installer with the expertise to avoid damaging the kitchen countertop. The quartz-granite countertop installers Rockville will advise the best countertop edges for each countertop material and what suits your kitchen depending on the traffic, kitchen style you want and the budget. The edge profile that you choose will greatly impact the final look of your kitchen, therefore choose a design that makes you kitchen elegant and outstanding.

28

Apr

The 3 Best Counter top Replacement Materials

Replacing unattractive kitchen countertop will transform and perk up the value of your house. It’s important that the material you choose gives your kitchen the regal effect, one that caters to the traffic and modernizes your kitchen. There is a variety of material available and its necessary to consult the granite countertop installer for the ideal countertop for your kitchen. Involve the countertop replacement company during the remodel of your countertop for best results.

Best Countertop Replacement Materials

  • Granite

Granite is made from natural stone and it’s undisputedly the best and most used material. It comes in a variety of colors and will make your kitchen look elegant. The material you choose should be able to handle the kind of work that takes place in your kitchen and granite is ideal for kitchens which are not super busy. Granite requires resealing often to avoid staining and attracting dirt.

  • Engineered stone countertops

Engineered stones are made of quartz crystals bound together by resin and have a uniform color, unlike the natural stones which have different hues. The engineered stone has the advantage of durability and will not crack easily. The material is heat resistant, scratch resistant making it ideal for high traffic and busy kitchens. It’s non-porous making it easier to clean and keep away bacteria. It doesn’t require sealing and if you work with foods that drip blood and other liquid the countertop will not absorb the liquids.Engineered stone countertops are the best  countertops for busy kitchens

  • Quartz Countertop

Quartz mineral is one of the hardest material and therefore quartz countertops are one of the most durable countertop replacement material. Quartz is made of quartz minerals bonded together with polymer resins. Quartz countertop comes in a variety of colors and you can complement the colors in your kitchen space. The countertop is non- porous so dirt and bacteria cannot penetrate the surface. it’s easy maintenance and does not require periodic sealing. Since it’s made of resin, it’s flexible and easier to shape around corners.It’s important that quartz countertops are heat resistant up to a certain point, extreme heat may damage the countertop.

Tips to Consider When Choosing a Countertop Replacement Material

  • Durability and long-lasting material

Choose the countertop material that will last long with minimal maintenance. Depending on the traffic in your kitchen, choose the material that is scratch resistant, heat resistant and will last a lifetime

  • Maintenance

If you run a hotel, you don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning and taking care of the countertop material.  Choose the material that doesn’t require too much care if you run a busy kitchen. Granite countertops may not be ideal for hotels and busy kitchen as they require extra care and sealing often.

Stylish and modern

It’s important that the countertop you choose increase the aesthetic value of the home. Granite countertops will give your home a natural feel while quartz adds elegance to your home.

Ensure that the material you choose works for your kitchen. Let the granite installers Rockville to do the installation for a professional look and to ensure that the countertop lasts a lifetime.

22

Apr

4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Kitchen Counter tops

Kitchen countertops are the focal point of your kitchen and the house as whole. The countertop you choose should serve and bring out the beauty of the house. They are several countertops available including granite countertops, quartz countertops, and engineered stone countertops among others. Given the many options available it’s important to understand how to choose countertops. Whether it’s for a residential house or for commercial purposes your countertop should be durable and long lasting

Factors to consider when Choosing a countertop material

  • Purpose and durability of the countertop

Granite countertops will work well in areas where there is not much traffic while countertops made from engineered stone, quartz are perfect for a busy kitchen. The choice of countertop should serve your purpose effectively. Choose a countertop that will be able to withstand the traffic in your kitchen. Engineered stone countertops are ideal for very busy kitchen and will last long. Granite may not be ideal for high traffic areas as they require sealing often. Assess your needs and choose a countertop that will last long. If you are replacing the countertop in a rental it’s important to choose one that is durable and stain resistant.

  • Cost of the material

Choose a surface material that suits your budget. Granite is the more affordable than quartz or marble. Select the kitchen countertop that suits your budget and still looks great in your house.

  • Maintenance

Before you settle on a countertop, establish the maintenance practices required for each type of the worktop. Countertops such as granite require sealing to keep out stains and bacteria while engineered stone countertops don’t require the sealing procedure. Granite contractor will advise you on the maintenance practices for each countertop

  • Style

Most people look at the visual appearance of the countertop. It’s therefore important that the countertop you choose should complement the kitchen cabinets and other kitchen appliances. If you want the more natural look in your house, choose materials such as granite that will give your space that natural feel. Choose the countertop that gives your house the aesthetic value you want.

The countertop you choose should reflect the purpose of your kitchen. If you are looking for a more natural theme, granite countertop is most ideal, if you have a busy kitchen choose the countertop that requires the least maintenance and still looks good. The granite countertop installer will ensure that your countertop is well fabricated giving your kitchen the regal effect. Consult and research on the best countertop for your kitchen. Granite company Rockville will give you advice on the ideal countertop for your kitchen.

14

Apr

Granite Vs Quartz Counter top: What’s your choice

Granite and quartz countertops are almost the same, and the debate about which is better than the other continues to rage on. Although it’s hard to tell the countertops apart, there are still differences that will help you settle on the best depending on your needs. We delve deeper into the differences and similarities to help decide which of the two countertops fits your space

The difference between Quartz and granite

  • Material

Granite is made of 100% natural stone. Granite stones are taken from the quarries and cut and smoothened to form the granite countertop.

Quartz is made of 93 % natural stone, and the rest 7 % is colors and resin to hold the particles together.

  • Maintenance

Granite is porous and needs to seal often to avoid stain and scratches

Quartz, on the other hand, doesn’t require any sealing

  • Durability

Granite has its flaws when it comes to busy kitchens. If you are looking for a countertop for a busy kitchen, then granite may not be ideal as it scratches and stains when certain substances like wine, coffee, tomato juice are poured on it

Quartz kitchen countertops are durable and less prone to stains, and it’s therefore, perfect for those hotels that are super busy kitchens

  • Eco-friendly

Granite is eco-friendlier as it emits less amount of radon and other organic gases.

Quartz has higher emission levels of radon than granite

Reasons to consider Granite

  • Granite is a pure natural stone and has unique colors which make it possible to personalize your kitchen.
  • Granite is slightly cheaper than Quartz
  • Granite countertops are durable if not subjected to heavy use.

Reason to consider Quartz

  • Quartz is more flexible than granite and is thus easier to install.
  • The non-porous nature of quartz makes it the best countertop for busy kitchens
  • Its stain resistant
  • If you don’t want to see seams, then you need to use darker quartz

What is your choice?

The kitchen countertop you choose will depend on several factors;

  • Preference

When choosing between you need to decide whether you want the unique natural stone or man-made stone. Granite countertops are more beautiful and unique as compared to quartz.

  • Purpose and ease of use

Quartz countertops will work well in the large and busy kitchen as they are easy to maintain as they don’t require sealing. Quartz countertops are easier to clean and can be used heavily. Choose one that suits the need at hand

Conclusion

They say beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.It’s important to note that you can’t go wrong with either of the two countertops as they are both durable if used in the right place. Choose the kitchen countertop that will add aesthetic value to your house and if you feel lost talk to your granite-Quartz countertop installers for expertise on each of the countertops.

28

Feb

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.