17

Jan

Do You Need Trivets On Granite?

If you are asking, do you need trivets on granite, you must have installed granite countertops in your kitchen, and you are wondering whether you should protect them using a trivet, right?

You place trivets between the countertop and the hot pan to protect the surfaces from getting burned. And yes, you need trivets on granite.

The cool thing is that trivets do more than protect the counters from burn marks—they also protect you from having broken baking dishes or a cracked countertop due to thermal shock.

Overall, having a trivet in place reduces the chances of damaging your valuable items, so it’s wise always to have them in place.

But aren’t granite countertops heat resistant?

Yes, granite countertops are heat resistant, and this is one of the primary reasons they are heavily used in the kitchen, but they aren’t heatproof.

This means that while you might not experience any damage on the countertops when you place hot pans on them for the first few times, when you repeatedly do it, you risk causing permanent damage to the surfaces.

What are other granite best practices?

Besides having a trivet or hot pad on your countertops to protect them from damage, there are plenty of other best practices that ensure your countertops retain their good looks for a long time. Some of these best practices include:

Clean the countertops regularly

There is no way your countertops will look good if you don’t clean them regularly, is there? Make it a habit to clean your surfaces at least once every day.

The cool thing is that cleaning the countertops is easy as all you need is soap and water. Spray some soapy water on your countertops, then wipe it with a clean piece of cloth, and you are good to go.

Regardless of how dirty your countertops are, don’t clean them with ammonia, bleach, degreasers, glass cleaner, and other abrasive products as they reduce the effectiveness of the granite sealer, leaving your countertops vulnerable to stains. To avoid damage and keep your countertops looking good for a long time, stick to cleaning them with soap and water.

When choosing the soap type, avoid dish soap as its repeated use causes a soapy build-up that dulls the shine of your surfaces, leaving them ugly and uninviting. For the best outcome, use soap designed to clean granite surfaces.

Seal the countertops regularly

As much as they are tough, granite counters are porous. This means they have pores on them that increase their chances of staining should spills happen. You should seal the countertops with countertop sealing products to seal these pores.

There are plenty of products in the market, but not all are right for your countertops. Research and find one designed for your countertops.

You should do the sealing at the time of installation then once a year thereafter. You can do the sealing work yourself or hire a professional to help you out.

For the best outcome, it’s always wise to have a professional do it.

Clean spills as soon as they happen

As you are preparing the meals, accidents are bound to happen. For example, coffee, soda, citrus juice, tomato sauce, or even water will spill on your surfaces. Even if you have sealed the countertops, the liquids can find their way under your countertops and cause hard-to-remove stains, when you allow them to stand there for a long time.

To avoid this, make it a habit to clean spills from your countertops as soon as they happen.

Use cutting boards

When you are chopping meat, fruits, or vegetables, it’s tempting to want to chop directly on your countertops due to how tough they look, but don’t. This is because you will scratch the countertops, which gives the surfaces a cheap, dull look.

To keep your countertops scratch-free, always use a chopping/cutting board to protect both your countertops and knives.

Granite installers Rockville also recommend you keep off hard objects such as rings and bottles as they can scratch or even dent the countertops, and you don’t want this, do you?

 Yes, you need trivets on your countertops.

To keep your countertops in pristine shape, you need trivets. There are no right or wrong trivets. As long as the units provide you with the protection you need, you are good to go.

14

Nov

What Are My Kitchen Countertops Options?

Are you thinking about installing kitchen countertops and asking what are my kitchen countertops options? Well, there are plenty of options you can go with, with the common ones being:

Natural stone countertops

From their name, these are countertops obtained from natural stone, and they include: soapstone, marble, slate, and granite countertops.

Granite countertops are one of the most popular, and they are sold primarily through local fabricators, but you will sometimes find them in home improvement stores and kitchen showrooms.

Granite comes in a wide range of colors ranging from variegated browns to vibrant blue. It goes that the rarer the color, the more expensive the stone, so if you are on a budget, you should stay away from the rare colors.

Marble is another popular natural stone countertop that has fewer color patterns than granite. Marble is relatively soft and porous than granite, which makes it more prone to stains.

Despite this, marble is regarded as an almost perfect work surface for activities such as making fresh pasta and baking.

Soapstone and slate aren’t as popular as granite and marble, and they come in far fewer colors than granite. Soapstone is usually dark greenish-black in color, but it’s not uncommon to find lighter green-gray slabs.

On the other hand, slate is extremely dense and comes in five subtle colors such as red, gray, green, black, and purple. You will sometimes find mottled purple and variegated purple slates with visible veins and shades of contrasting colors.

If working with an experienced contractor, soapstone and slate can be fabricated into sinks to match the countertops.

Like the other natural stone countertops, soapstone is porous, and you need to seal it to reduce staining regularly.

Solid surface countertops

Made from dense polyester, acrylic, or a blend of the two, solid surface countertops come in various colors and patterns. They are non-porous, which means they are highly stain and scratch-resistant. It also means that they are highly easy to maintain.

The unique thing about these countertops is they are renewable and repairable. This means that if you scratch or burn the surfaces, you can easily sand them out and fill the gouges.

The countertop seams are fused to create undetectable joints, making the countertops perfect for large or long sections of countertops and oversized island tops.

Concrete

Concrete counters closely resemble natural stone and are popular among homeowners looking to create custom countertops.

Unlike the 80s concrete countertops where the fabricators messily poured the concrete on top of the cabinets, modern fabricators offer pre-cast counters made in the workshop then delivered to your home already fully cured and finished.

The pre-cast concrete counters are 1 ½ inch thick and are available in slabs of up to 10 feet long.

The fabricators can create them in any color, which is achieved by adding pigments to the concrete during mixing.

Once cured, the slabs are honed and sealed to prevent them from staining.

The major problem with concrete is cracking. Fabricators go around this by using wire mesh, metal bars, or fiberglass to strengthen them.

Engineered stone

Also known as quartz composite, engineered stone comprises 90% quartz and 10% acrylic or epoxy binder. The most popular composites under this category are: Silestone, Formica solid surfacing, and Corian Quartz.

You must be wondering what is the difference between the traditional solid surfacing and engineered stone countertops, right? Well, the difference is that engineered stone is much harder and has more depth than the other countertops. It also has clarity and radiance you won’t find in other countertops.

Ceramic tiles

Most homeowners now prefer countertops that are easy to install, maintain, and provide a seamless counter. Due to this, few countertops are covered with porcelain or ceramic tile.

While this is the case, it doesn’t mean that you should rule out ceramic countertops for your project. The tiles make an excellent choice for backsplashes or secondary work surfaces such as islands, peninsulas, eat-at counters, and butler pantries.

Whether you are seeking countertop replacement services Rockville or any other service, you can install ceramic tiles, but you need to ensure that you install the right ones. Don’t install wall tiles on the counters as they are bound to crack as a rule of thumb.

07

Dec

How Much Do Granite Countertops Cost?

If you are asking how much do granite countertops cost, you must be looking to renovate your bathroom or kitchen and not sure how much to budget for it. As much as we would like to give you a definite answer to this question, the unfortunate thing is the price of the slabs varies depending on plenty of factors that include:

Source of the stone

Ask most homeowners where to buy the granite counters, and the first thing that comes to their minds is the big box stores. While the stores are large and popular, they often don’t have plenty of countertop slab options to choose from. The stores also tend to be more expensive, with most of them charging up to 40% more than specialist stores.

These big-box stores also often outsource the fabrication and installation work making the installation process too expensive.

To save money and get many countertop options to choose from, buy your countertops from the countertop specialists. These professionals have staff, skills, and the necessary equipment, making them a one stop shop.

When you visit these stores, you get top quality unique slabs at a lower cost, and you have expert contractors ready to install the countertops for you expertly.

Thickness

Most of the granite slabs vary between 2 cm and 3 cm. As you can guess, the thicker slabs are more expensive than, the thinner ones. This means you can buy many thinner countertops than thicker ones.

Unfortunately, the thinner slabs require a lot of support and easily break especially when you place them over a large area.

Rarelity of the colors

Although most homeowners install white countertops, granite slabs come in all shades of colors where the rare and exotic colors such as red, blue, and black tend to be more expensive than the standard hues.

Cut

Most people associate granite with long slabs of stone, but these are just the most desirable cut for the kitchen countertops. Manufacturers cut granite in many ways, including tiles, modules, and many others.

Slabs are the most popular, followed by modules, then tiles, where the only advantage granite slabs have over modules is that slabs look better as they require fewer seams hence presenting a smoother, sleeker look.

The modules and tiles might seem less durable than slabs, but this isn’t the case. Remember, they are made from granite.

If operating on a tight budget, go for tiles that also work excellently for backsplashes.

Granite quality grades

Granite comes in different grades defined by pits, veins, colors, soft material content, marks, thickness, and the quarry. While there are many grades, we can summarize them into three primary levels:

Level 1: The low level or entry-level granite is also known as the commercial-grade or the “builder’s grade,” often from china.

Level 2: This is the mid-grade level that is more unique than level 1, and it’s often from Brazil and India.

Level 3: Also known as the high-level grade, it’s the finest quality and comes from India and Brazil.

Obviously, level 3 is the most expensive as it focuses on the quality of the stone.

Demand and supply

Like any other product in the market, the granite countertops’ price is affected by the demand and supply forces. If you buy the slabs when they are in high demand, you will pay more for them than when another person would buy when the demand is lower.

Finishes

Most countertop specialists give the countertops a glossy or polished finish, and in rare cases, they will give it a matte finish. These are the most popular granite finishes, and when you buy them, you won’t pay extra for them.

Unfortunately, if you choose another finish, such as hammered or leathered, you will have to pay an extra fee as the finish is out of the ordinary.

Can you save on your countertops?

The good news is you can save on your countertops. One way is to be more flexible on the countertop’s color, size, grade, and texture. You also should be cautious of the store you buy from.

To avoid costly mistakes, hire expert granite installers Rockville to handle the installations. The professionals will help you with the installations and guide you into buying the right slabs for your home.

06

Feb

8 Types Of Granite Countertops

When homeowners visit countertop stores, they want granite countertops. Did you know there are many types of these countertops in the market? The most common ones are:

Tiled granite

Often cheaper than other countertops in the market, tiled granite is made by placing tiles edge to edge then securing them with epoxy.

Although, it’s more affordable, tiled granite isn’t popular with most homeowners. This is because it’s high maintenance. Also, many homeowners don’t like its look so most homeowners opt for other types that are more grandiose.

Slab granite

These are the go-to countertops. When homeowners say they have installed granite in their homes, these are usually what they install.

They are made of a solid piece of granite fabricated off-site then customized to fit the dimensions of the surfaces you are looking to install —whether kitchen or bathroom.

Due to their design, the countertops are expensive. Fortunately, they are elegant to look at.

Since they are heavy and difficult to install, you should only have them installed by a professional. The professional will also ensure they don’t break or crack. After all, you wouldn’t want your countertops you have spent a huge chunk of your cash to get damaged, would you?

Modular granite

These are pre-cut mini slabs that are often already fabricated into standard sizes and shapes to fit most standard kitchens and bathrooms.

If your surfaces don’t meet the standard sizes, you can still install the countertops, but you should be ready to deal with large seams that may be ugly to look at.

Since they are light and easy to install, they are loved by many DIY enthusiasts.

Black

Many homeowners shy away from black granite as it doesn’t show the veining like the lighter slabs. While the veins aren’t as visible as when you have white countertops, black comes with plenty of benefits. One of the benefits is that it sparkles more than the other types.

If considering installing the black color in your home, pair it with white cabinets for a modern classic look.

White granite

This is the go-to color for most homeowners, especially those looking for an elegant look. Some inexperienced homeowners avoid it as they have the impression that it will be plain and featureless.

Since granite is obtained from a natural stone, it doesn’t come in only one color. It has plenty of other minor colors in it that give it more character and make it more interesting.

For a great look, pair it with wooden cabinetry or with white or black cabinets.

Beige granite

Although, it almost resembles white granite, beige is more welcoming to homeowners. This is because it has more colors that give it more character. The countertop tends to have spots of black, gray, and black mixed in.

Due to its color, you can use it in a wide range of applications including traditional, country, and even in classic homes.

Brown granite

A tad darker than beige, brown granite looks excellent when paired with light wooden cabinets. Although, you can use it in different applications, it looks excellent in rustic and country style kitchens where it makes the house feel homey and warm.

Since it doesn’t contrast too strongly, it highlights the woodwork in the room which gives any house an inviting look.

Jewel-toned granite

You won’t find this granite in most homes but it’s excellent when used as a focal point in a toned-down kitchen. Green or red based granite looks excellent in an Asian style kitchen. For an elegant look, go for cabinets that aren’t too bright as they will clash with the countertops.

The secret to finding the right granite

With so many options to choose from, it can be confusing to tell the right one for your home. When making the purchase, you should note the countertops might look perfect in the countertop store but otherwise in your home.

To avoid shelling out a lot of cash for slabs you won’t be proud of, before you place a huge order, granite installers Rockville recommend you first go with a few pieces to your home and see how they blend with your floor, cabinets, appliances, and other parts of the house.

28

Feb

Facts about Quartz Counter tops you Should Know

Your kitchen countertops play a vital role in the value of a home. It’s Important to ensure that the countertop you get perks the value of your home and makes it more functional. Quartz countertop is among the most popular countertops among homeowners who are doing countertop replacement. In this article, we tell you why you should use quartz for your kitchen countertop.

Facts about Quartz Countertop you should know

  • What is the cost of the countertop

One of the biggest consideration most homeowners make when choosing a countertop is the cost. To know the cost of the quartz countertop visit the quartz countertop dealer and get an estimate. The cost of the quartz countertop will depend on the size of countertop you need, the thickness of the slab, complexity of design and the quality of quartz. Compared to granite countertop quartz is less expensive.

  • Where can you buy quartz countertop

Visit the quartz countertop dealer and view the variety of quartz slabs available. The quartz countertop contractor will guide you on the best countertop for your kitchen.

  • How are quartz countertop made?

Quartz countertop is made of 93% ground quartz and 7% resins and polymers. The blend of resin and stone make quartz countertop sturdy, shiny and nonporous. Different colors are made by adding pigments during the manufacture of the countertop.

  • What is the difference between quartz and granite countertop?

Quartz is similar to granite, but they have some differences. Granite is 100% natural while quartz is man-made stone.

Quartz countertop is porous while granite is nonporous and requires constant sealing. Granite countertop chips more easily than quartz countertop. Granite is environmental friendly when compared to quartz countertop.

  • How to Maintain Quartz Countertop

Quartz countertops are low maintenance. They don’t require constant sealing, and that makes it easier to maintain. To clean the water, you need a soft cloth and warm water.

Avoid using abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals when cleaning your countertop. Use trivets and avoid placing hot pans on the countertop. Too much heat will destroy the resins, and that could make the countertop crack.

Clean spills immediately although quartz is stain resistant its best to clean the spills immediately.

Don’t cut food directly on the countertop instead of cutting board. Don’t use sharp objects when removing stuck food on the countertop.

To remove food stuck on the countertop avoid using abrasive objects because that may damage the countertop.

  • Color Options available

There are a variety of colors available. Different color pigments can be added during the manufacturing process, and that results in a variety of colors.

  • What is the difference between Quartz and Quartzite

Quartzite is a naturally occurring stone which is mined from the earth, and it’s polished to create a countertop material. Quartz countertop on the hand is man-made a countertop. Quartz is more durable than quartzite countertop.

Pro and Cons of the Quartz Countertop

  • Stain resistant

Quartz countertop is nonporous, and that makes it stain resistant. The nonporous nature of quartz makes it resistant to mold and stains. Wipe any spills immediately and avoid using acidic detergents to clean the countertop.

  • Heat Resistant

Quartz countertop is hardy, and that makes it heat resistant.

  • Cost Effective

It’s cheap compared to other countertops such as granite countertop.

  • Easy to maintain

Quartz countertop doesn’t require constant sealing and that makes it easier to maintain. To keep the countertop clean you need a mild detergent and warm water.It’s best to clean the spills immediately to prevent stains from forming.

Cons of the Quartz countertop

  • It’s not suitable for an outdoor kitchen countertop. The UV rays will break down the resin and damage the countertop.

How do I choose the best look?

The quartz countertop contractor will guide you on the best countertop for your kitchen. You can also take home some samples and compare that with your cabinetry and choose the best. Choose the patterns and designs that will complement your kitchen décor.

It’s important to choose the right countertop for your kitchen. Quartz countertop is one of the best kitchen countertops. It will give your kitchen a new look and make it more functional. Let the granite-quartz countertop installer Rockville do the installations to ensure a professional installation. Follow the care instruction to keep your kitchen countertop looking good for years.

20

Feb

Mistakes to Avoid While Choosing a Granite Counter top

Kitchen countertops add aesthetic value to your home and make your kitchen more functional. Granite countertops are one of the most common materials in kitchen remodels due to their unique characteristics. Granite countertop is durable, easy to maintain and will give your house a classy look. A well-installed granite countertop will increase the value of your home, and it’s, therefore, crucial to ensure proper installation.

Why you should use Granite Countertop for your kitchen remodel

The kitchen is one of the most important spaces in a house. Remodeling your kitchen will enhance the look of your home. A kitchen countertop will increase the value of your home, and it’s important to ensure that you choose the best material. Granite countertop will help create a timeliness look and below are the reasons why you should consider using granite countertop

  • Elegant

Granite will make your kitchen stylish. Granite comes in a variety of colors, and it will make your kitchen attractive. Granite kitchen countertop will remain trendy for years.

  • Easy to maintain

Once the countertop is sealed, it requires little maintenance. You can seal the countertop once every two years depending on how often the countertop in use. To keep the countertop looking good, you need a mild detergent and water to clean it.

  • Durability

Granite is hardy and will last a lifetime. The kitchen countertop can withstand heat up to a certain level.

  • Variety of colors

Granite is available in different colors and designs, and you can bring out your style

  • Natural

Granite is a natural stone and its environment-friendly.

  • Cost Effectiveness

Granite is affordable, and it’s cost-effective. Granite is more cost-effective than a material such as quartzite.

Mistakes to Avoid While Installing Granite Countertop

Granite countertop is affordable and durable. It’s important to ensure that you work with an expert granite installer to ensure a professional installation. Below are some mistakes you should avoid when selecting granite countertops.

  • Incorrect seam placement

Make sure that the seams are placed in the right place. If seams are placed in the wrong place, they will make the countertop lose its aesthetic value

  • Selecting the wrong color

Picking the right granite countertop color is crucial because that determines the overall look of your kitchen. You can consult the granite contractor on the best color for your kitchen countertop. If you have a very busy kitchen, consider choosing the darker slabs. To make your kitchen look huge and spacious use lighter slabs.

  • Mismatched Countertops

Make sure your kitchen colors are matching, and that will make your kitchen unique. Choose the countertop that will bring out your style. Whether you want to bring a modern look or a traditional look the granite countertop dealer will help you choose the right countertop. Avoid mismatched countertops because that will make your kitchen lose value.

  • Wrong countertop finish

Choosing the right granite countertop finish for your kitchen is critical because that will determine the functionality of your countertop. A polished granite countertop is one of the most common surfaces. It’s elegant and stylish. The honed finish will add rustic beauty to your countertop. Choose the tight countertop finish.

  • Picking the wrong countertop edges

It’s important to pick the right countertop edges. If you have small children, it’s important to ensure that you use the right countertop edge. Consult the experts at the granite company on the best edge for your kitchen. You don’t want an edge that will hinder movement in the kitchen.

  • Choosing an unqualified installer

Make sure you work with an expert during the installation process. Work with the expert granite countertop installer to ensure best results. Visit the granite company and ask to the work of the expert before you begin the installation. It’s imperative that you work with a trusted granite installer.

It’s important that you avoid the above mistakes when installing your granite countertop. Consult the granite installer Rockville on the best finish for your kitchen, edge, color, and the seam placement. By avoiding the above mistakes, you will ensure that make your kitchen amazing and perk the value of your home. Work with an expert granite installer who will ensure that your countertop is appropriately installed. Take care of the granite countertop, and it will last a lifetime.

08

Feb

When Should Your Replace Your Kitchen Counter top?

Your kitchen countertop is the focal point of your home. A worn out or an outdated countertop will make your kitchen look old, and it’s important to consider a remodel. When doing a kitchen remodel make sure you work with a professional granite -quartz installer Rockville for the best results. A new kitchen countertop will give your house a new look. In this article, we look at how to tell that your kitchen needs a new countertop. To ensure that your countertop lasts long make sure you choose the right countertop and ensure a professional installation.

Signs that You Need a New Kitchen Countertop

  • When your Countertop has Cracks

Quartz and granite countertops are hard to crack. If your kitchen countertop has a crack that can’t be repaired, then you may need to replace the countertop. Before making the decision to replace consult the quartz countertop dealer whether the countertop can be repaired. Cracks can be unsightly, and it’s therefore important to ensure that the repairs are done professionally.

  • Stubborn stains and Burns

Stubborn stains will make your kitchen countertop look unsightly. Stains from wine, coffee, and burns will make your countertop look old. Burns on the countertop make the countertop appear like it’s been in use for years. If you have tried cleaning and removing the stains and burns marks and they are not working, then you need to replace your kitchen countertop. Choosing the right countertop for your kitchen is important. If you have a busy high traffic kitchen choose a countertop that will fit your kitchen. Choose the countertop that is stain resistant and heat resistant. Quartz countertop is ideal for a high traffic area because they are stain resistant, heat resistant and the stone doesn’t require a lot of care and maintenance.

  • Outdated Kitchen

An outdated kitchen will give your house a low value. Even if the countertop is not damaged make sure that the countertop you have in your kitchen is up to date. If you have a countertop that is hard to clean, then you may need to change your countertop. If the color of the countertop contradicts your kitchen, it’s best to change the countertop. Granite countertop comes in a variety of colors that are unique, and you can choose one that will complement your kitchen.

  • To Accommodate a family Member

If your family needs a unique countertop then it’s best to have it replaced. You need a countertop that will work for your family especially if you have a disabled member of the family.

  • When Expanding your Kitchen

If you are expanding your kitchen, you may need to change the countertop and get a big one that suits your new kitchen. It’s best to have a new countertop if you are expanding your kitchen because it will be easier to match the new countertop to the new cabinets and floor.

Tips to follow When Remodelling Your Home

  • Stick to a budget

When doing the remodel, you need to have a budget. Make sure you stick to the budget. Failing to plan for you may result in the project stalling.

  • Choose the right countertop for your kitchen

It’s important that you choose the right countertop for your kitchen. That will ensure longevity and durability. Installing a countertop that is not suitable for your kitchen will lead to countertop damage, and you may need to replace the counter sooner than expected. Speak to the experts at the granite company and consult on the best countertop for your kitchen. Granite countertops will work well for the outdoor kitchen while quartz may not last long if installed outside. It’s therefore important to ensure that you choose the right countertop for your kitchen.

  • Work with a Professional Installer

Make sure you work with a professional installer to fix your countertop. That will ensure that the installation is done professionally.

Your kitchen countertop gives your home a new appearance. A good countertop will increase the value of the home, and it’s, therefore, important to ensure you choose the right countertop product. Consult the granite countertop contractor and choose the right top for your kitchen. The installation should be done by an expert who will ensure that there is no damage and that your countertop lasts long.

18

Jan

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Granite Counter top Color for Your Kitchen

Installing a granite kitchen countertop in your home will increase the appeal of your home and make it more functional. It’s imperative to ensure that you get the right color of the granite to give your house a fantastic look. Granite is available in different unique colors that give your kitchen an artist look. Make sure that you choose the color that works for you and that matches your kitchen cabinets or complements the appliances in your kitchen. Consult the granite contractor on the best color for your home. In this article, we tell you the factors to consider when choosing the color of granite to use in your kitchen. Whether it’s a new kitchen or a, remodel its important to choose the right color.

How to Pick the Right Granite Countertop Color

  • Get all the Materials

It’s important to ensure that you get all the details about your kitchen. Be detailed oriented about the features, appliances, cabinets, and flooring in your kitchen. Visit the granite companies with aspects of your kitchen, and they will guide on the best color for your home. Make sure the color you choose complements or matches on the features in your home. If you have dark cabinets, a dark granite countertop will make the kitchen appear dark. Depending on the color of the cabinets ensure that your kitchen doesn’t look too dull. You can take pictures to the granite countertop installers and consult on the best granite color.

  • Visit Different Showrooms

It might be tempting to check the website of the granite company and see what they have. It’s, however, better to visit the showroom. Fine patterns may not be very clear even in the best photo. Visiting the showroom will also give you first-hand experience, and you can select the granite color for your kitchen. Consult the granite contractor on what color is best for your kitchen.

  • Consider the Lighting

No matter how beautiful the granite slab is, poor lighting will make the kitchen appear dull. Investing in good lighting is important. If there is natural light that penetrates your kitchen, then you can use dark colors like black, blue. However, if there is no natural lighting consider using brighter colors such as white. Additional pendant lighting will make your kitchen more gorgeous. Adding a pendant will enhance the beauty of the granite and the kitchen.

Other Considerations to Make When Choosing Granite Countertops

One of the major consideration you should make when choosing a countertop is the color. Granite comes in endless colors. Make sure the color you choose coordinates with other features in the room. Ensure that you match the color well to bring out a coordinated kitchen. Below are other considerations you should make when installing a granite countertop

  • Countertop Edge

There are many edges you can choose from. Ensure that the edge you choose doesn’t make the countertop less functional. Consult the countertop dealer on the best edge for your home. A beveled edge will give your kitchen a contemporary look. Choose an edge that will bring out your style and one that will make your countertop functional.

  • Countertop Finish

The countertop can either be honed, leathered or polished. A polished surface is the most popular countertop finish. Visit the granite company and choose a finish that will fit your home.

  • The Granite Countertop Installer

The installation process is key, and it’s paramount to ensure that it’s done professionally. Work with a licensed granite contractor who has experience in installing and sealing the granite countertop. Make sure that the seams are not visible.

Selecting the right color of the granite will require skills and expertise and its therefore important to visit the granite company. The experts at the granite company will help you choose the right countertop color that will bring out your style and give your kitchen a gorgeous look. The right installation is key to a beautiful outcome, and you need to ensure that the granite is installed by a professional granite installer Rockville. The granite installer should also seal your granite countertop to make it stain resistant. Consult the granite contractor on the right care procedure to follow. A well-maintained granite countertop will last a lifetime.

 

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.

20

Nov

How to Choose the Right Counter top

The high number of good countertop materials available makes it hard to choose one that will fit your home. You need to choose the countertop that will make your home look good after years of use. It’s important to understand each kind of countertop and choose the one that fits your kitchen. It’ important to use objective criteria to choose the best countertop for your home. If your kitchen is mostly for social gathering, you need to choose a countertop which is more appealing while if you are a serious cook then consider choosing a heat-resistant countertop. In this article, we tell you what you should look out for when looking for a countertop. It’s however important to ensure you consult granite contractors on the best kitchen countertop for your home.

How to Choose Countertops

Look and Appearance

You need to decide the aesthetic value you want, and which countertop fits your kitchen.  After you decide the kind of look you want for your kitchen you need, then you need to determine how to use your kitchen. Is it a restaurant, social place or simply a family home? Once you determine the use of your kitchen, then you will need to choose the countertop that fits your kitchen. Below we sample the most popular countertops.

Granite countertops

Granite countertops are top of the list and its one of the most commonly used kitchen countertops. They will add elegance to your space and make your kitchen look gorgeous.

Advantages of granite kitchen countertop

  • They will give your kitchen a luxurious look
  • Have a natural look
  • Durability and scratch resistance

Disadvantages

  • Require sealing often

Quartz Countertops

The engineered countertop comes in a variety of colors. it looks good in a contemporary space

Advantages

  • Variety of color options
  • Easy to clean and doesn’t require sealing
  • Scratch resistant

Disadvantages

  • Expensive

Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle is crucial when choosing a countertop. How much maintenance are willing to put with to ensure your countertop last long. Consider selecting the countertop you can be able to take care of. If your countertop is for a restaurant, consider choosing one that is stain resistant. Quartz countertops are heat and stain resistant and are ideal for a high traffic kitchen. Quartz also requires minimal maintenance and its perfect for busy kitchens.

If you have little maintenance time, make sure that you choose the countertop material that will work for you. Quartz and engineered stone countertops don’t require sealing and are low maintenance. On the other hand, if you don’t mind putting in the maintenance work, then granite countertop will work for you. Marble and granite countertop will require to be sealed often.

Traffic in the Kitchen

The restaurant has high traffic, and they require a countertop that is heat and stain resistant. You will also need a nonporous countertop to ensure that your countertop doesn’t harbor any bacteria’s. Make sure you determine the level of your activity in your kitchen and choose the countertop that will be able to withstand.

Eco-Friendly countertop

Make sure that you choose an eco-friendly countertop material. Use a countertop material that is friendly to the environment.

Budget and family

Choose the kitchen countertop that is kid friendly. If you have a family with small children, consider using a countertop that is stain resistant and requires low maintenance.

Also, consider your budget. The granite contractor will give you a quotation on the various countertop options available. Choose the one that is within your budget. Consult the quartz countertop dealers on the kitchen countertop that fits within your budget.

Criteria for Ranking Countertop Materials

  • Appearance

Choose a countertop that will increase the aesthetic value of your home

  • Value

Consider the cost of the countertop, cost of installation and maintenance cost

  • Stain resistant

Make sure the countertop you choose can withstand the kind of activity in your kitchen. Ensure its stain resistant

  • Heat Resistant

If you are looking for a countertop for a restaurant make sure its heat resistant.

  • Resale value

Countertops are an investment to your home, and they should perk up the value of the home. Choose a countertop that will increase the value of your home.

It’s paramount that you choose the right countertop for your home. Make sure that its professionally installed by the granite-Quartz -marble countertop installers Rockville for the best outcome. Choose the countertop that you can maintain and brings out your style.