15

Feb

Tips for Achieving a Rustic Kitchen

When you create a modern rustic kitchen, the balance can be tricky, but it has the proper design elements and some creativity. You will be able to achieve the right blend of contemporary and rustic style. A modern rustic kitchen adds character and warmth to your home, while you feel fresh and contemporary. You can also incorporate quartz kitchen countertops when you pay for a renovation.

Rustic kitchens celebrate antiques and reclamation while highlighting beautiful materials. It is not surprising that they are one of the most sought-after kitchen ideas. Think of repurposed furniture, wooden cabinetry, antique hardware, and open shelving. It gives a functional look, leaning towards industrial, but it also keeps the inherent warmth from traditional kitchen ideas.

Go For Natural Materials

Using natural materials like wood, brick, and stone into renovating your home adds a rustic feel to your space. You can consider using reclaimed wood for backsplash, countertops, or cabinets. A stone wall or brick also adds character and warms up your space. You can have a lot of ideas when it comes to using natural materials.

If your kitchen has enough space, you can give the space an informal dining space.

Use the Empty Wall to Your Advantage

When you make coffee first thing in the morning to clean up dinner dishes when the night ends, you are going to spend a few hours every day in your kitchen.

Since it is among the busiest rooms in your home, you can bring in art pieces that you love. Art is not only for formal spaces and you should hang it where you will see it a lot. Hanging art on the wall feels fresh in the best way. If possible, you should hang pieces at eye level so you will have a focal point.

Add Color and Interest Using Reclaimed Tiles

It is important that when you collate rustic kitchen ideas, you should choose designs that keep the space warm. Exposed stone flooring and brick walls can cause the kitchen to feel unloved and cold. Color is an excellent way to inject warmth. Choose a palette that will evoke a fall garden and you will not make a mistake. Warm oranges, rich browns, and burnt umbers against a cream backdrop create a cozy environment.

Mix and Match the Finishes

Mixing and matching finishes add depth and interest to your kitchen. You should consider using a combination of paint finishes on the cabinets, or mixing two kinds of hardware, lighting fixtures, and more. For instance, pairing wood tones and cabinetry create a timeless look.

Stone Countertops and Organic Lighting

Similar to the delightful wooden cabinets that are a must in a rustic kitchen, you also have stoic stone countertops that are a must for any setting. You have to combine wood cabinets and stone countertops with exposed ceiling beams, cozy lighting, and brick walls that have a rugged charm to complete a relaxing rustic kitchen.

Painted Cabinetry

Painted kitchens have a moment. The traditional shaker-style cabinetry in a russet shade brings warmth to any rustic kitchen. Finding the best-painted kitchen ideas for your space breathes life back to dull cabinetry and it is easy to update it in the future.

When you pair it with wooden floorboards or a worn wooden table, it gets exposed to plaster walls so it counteracts with the modern look of the cabinetry. You can make a dark kitchen dark when you paint the window surrounding it with warm tones.

You can check qranite kitchen countertops Rockville anytime if you want to change your countertop for a more rustic design.

30

May

Why Granite Countertops are Better for Outdoor Kitchens

Among a lot of common modern-day design themes, the outdoor kitchen has become popular over the years. There are a couple of important features to consider if you are making this type of home upgrade, and one of them is which countertop is best for an outdoor space. Granite countertops are ideal for an outdoor space because of their material and durability.

Aside from that, there are other reasons to explore why you should choose granite for your outdoor countertop. In this article, you will discover what those reasons are and you will not mind paying a bit because of the benefits and quality you will get.

Read on to find out more now.

The Design is Beautiful

Granite is very unique and it offers various specks, patterns, and swirls that are different in each slab. That means each slab you have is unlike anyone else’s. There are endless possibilities in terms of individual design and style from the granite, and they can be made in any size or shape. Therefore, no matter the layout or size of an outdoor kitchen, granite makes it happen.

Heat, Moisture, and Stain Resistant

Granite is resistant to heat, stains, and changes in moisture levels, which makes it suitable for an outdoor space. Since it is a porous stone, it is recommended that you have your granite countertop periodically sealed to make sure it can resist stains from the regular kitchen spills. Therefore, it is in your best interest to wipe them up right away as they occur to retain the beauty of a countertop over the years and prevents discoloration.

In addition, this natural stone stands up well against any heat so it is not necessary to worry about the damage produced by hot pots and pans. However, you should still use hot pads and trivets to protect the sealant.

Compatible with the Outdoors

Granite has excellent durability, and it can withstand different natural elements, from snow and rain to heat and sleet. Aside from it being strong and sturdy, granite is heat resistant as well, which means it is not phased by exposure to hot summer all day. The truth is, that granite can actually benefit from sunlight. Once it shines on countertops, the beauty and depth of each piece are instantly revealed.

Another reason why granite is appropriate for an outdoor kitchen is that countertops can be built around ovens, stoves, pizza ovens, and other appliances that are hot. When granite is sealed regularly, granite can also repel rainwater.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

Granite does not give you a host of harmful bacteria and it remains sanitary, so it is safe to prepare and cook food on granite countertops. Cleaning a granite countertop is always easy even if you just use soap and water. You do not have to use a special cleaner.

Maintaining the quality of granite countertops is simple and it only needs the application of a sealer once every year. This sealer protects your countertops from spillage or rain, which can happen at some point in your kitchen outdoors.

Resistant to Germ and Bacteria

Cooking can get messy, whether you are outside or inside. Some of them are harmless, and others can contain harmful bacteria like salmonella, Listeria, and e.coli. Specific materials like laminate or tile can harbor these by providing the right growing conditions. In these instances, it is important to disinfect your kitchen countertop regularly so it is safe for food prep.

You can contact granite installers Potomac to have them work on your outdoor and install the granite countertop you love.

08

May

Common Mistakes When Choosing Granite Countertops

Granite kitchen countertops are among the best materials that can be used in the bathroom and kitchen reservations if you want a pristine and durable finish. While the beautiful and unique surface offers a lot of durabilities to withstand resist chips and heat, spills, and a lot more, there are a couple of mistakes that cause some damage to the stone.

Caring for your granite countertops and staying away from the common mistakes that cause damage maintains the surface’s longevity. While you know that life happens, knowing that can be damaging to your granite countertop is important in preventing you from paying for granite contractors again too soon.

You should not worry, because the common mistakes you need to avoid are mentioned here.

Wrong Thickness

There are 3 standards of marble thicknesses when choosing counters. You can choose between ¾ inch, 1.75 inches, and 1.5 inches.

You should avoid using the last options because problems can emerge from attaching two granite slabs. When the glue starts to deteriorate, it can cause gaps in the seam together with the horizontal edge or it can cause future damage to the surface, especially from everyday use.

Choosing Color Over Quality

Another common mistake is that first-time granite shoppers choose the color over the stone quality. Sure, it is important to match the surface’s color to the existing features of the kitchen, but you need to be careful to not sacrifice it because of aesthetics. White is among the most popular options for most stone countertops. However, white needs more caution and care because it easily stains compared to others. Dark colors such as brown and black hide spills and stains, there it reduces the maintenance needs and stain-removal treatments. One incident is that if you drink a glass of red wine, it could ruin your white surface if you accidentally spill it. Stains are difficult to remove without professional stain removal or sanding.

Seam Placement is Incorrect

Between granite’s natural colors, patterns, and great installer, seams should not be noticeable. Therefore, you can guarantee to have a seam on your countertop, so you must try planning for it. The more action a seam directly gets, the faster it is going to wear out.

You should try positioning the seam inconspicuously away from the faucet. If possible, it should not be right next to the sink. However, if you have no choice, position it perpendicularly and not parallel to the side edge of the sink. By doing this, you are providing extra support to the sink and preventing unnecessary joint stains.

Does Not Match the Cabinet Styles

You must always choose an edge for the granite countertop that will complement your cabinet style or vanity. For instance, flat or beveled edges will look best in a room that has modern cabinets. If you have traditional-style cabinets, you should choose a bullnose edge. The edges have to be round, especially if it is on the bottom if you have small children who can bump their heads on the granite’s edge.

Poor Edging Choices

When you are choosing an edge profile, indecisiveness comes naturally. You want to choose an edge that matches your current kitchen, but you also want a slab edge that is versatile. It should be able to match the future style changes and upgrades. However, you must choose the correct profile upon installation because you cannot change it without removing the stone and then sending them back to the manufacturer. That is why you must finalize your installation.

You must contact granite countertops dealer Potomac to help you achieve your dream kitchen countertop.

 

03

Sep

Tips on Matching Your Kitchen Countertop with the Floor and Cabinets

A lot of people nowadays tend to invest in improving the kitchen area of their homes. There are many kitchen renovation options you can choose from – from changing your current countertop into a brand-new quartz kitchen countertops or granite countertops. You would also have to consider whether to change your flooring, cabinets, and even your appliances.

However, you should first determine whether you need to have a kitchen overhaul or stick to your current kitchen design for the meantime. For one thing, it may depend on how old your countertop or flooring are. You should also prepare your budget if you are planning to have a kitchen makeover.

Getting started

With so many kitchen makeover options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to choose one that will suit your preference and lifestyle. Your options will also depend on what the current kitchen improvement trends are. You can choose to follow the current kitchen trends, or opt for a timeless design that won’t easily go out of style.

It may also be a good idea to come up with a set of criteria in planning for a kitchen renovation. Also, it can also help to know whether you want a kitchen renovation or remodel. In case you don’t know, the two are actually two different things. The former refers to repairing a current structure, while the latter refers to changing the entire existing structure.

Matching your countertop with your cabinet and flooring

A lot of homes follow some kind of theme to make a room look more attractive and coordinated. It is similar to when you choose your outfit of the day, even down to your makeup.

Whether you have quartz kitchen tops or granite countertops, the more important thing is to keep everything simple yet appealing. Here are some tips in matching the countertop with your existing flooring and cabinet.

  • Decide on your color scheme – at least with two major colors and another as accent color.
  • Choose your preferred kitchen countertop material as well as its finishing (matte, textured, glossy, or flat). From there, you can coordinate the countertop finishing with that of your flooring.
  • It can be a good idea to create a contrast between the floor and the cabinets especially if you are considering to have laminate or wood flooring. In other words, creating depth and contrast can make a difference in your kitchen’s overall look.
  • Make sure to always have samples when you go shopping for countertop to make the coordination process easier.

Choosing a kitchen countertop

There are many kitchen countertop materials you can choose from. There are popular ones such as quartz countertops. Countertop replacement companies may also offer other kinds of kitchen countertop materials such as:

  • Granite
  • Stainless steel
  • Butcher block
  • Marble
  • Laminate

Each countertop type vary in price. For example, quartz are on the expensive side which can range around $5,000 and above. On the other hand, there are cheaper options such as butcher block (may cost at least $1,700) and stainless steel (may cost around $2,200 and above).

Choosing the right countertop material may depend on your preference and need. For example, stainless steel countertops are a great option for the serious cooks out there. On the other hand, quartz, granite, or marble countertops look great in any kitchen although these are a little expensive than stainless steel.

Choosing a cabinet

Like countertops, choosing a cabinet material and style may also take time. There are cabinets with and without frames. There are also some cabinets that can be customized according to your preference and need.

Framed cabinets usually work in kitchens with traditional or classic designs. On the other hand, frameless ones work on modern or contemporary kitchen themes. It usually has hinges that are barely noticeable, giving the cabinet a sleeker look than framed ones.

Stock cabinets are usually the cheaper cabinet option, while customized cabinets are more expensive yet can be made according to your preference. Meanwhile, you can also decide on the cabinet material such as maple, pine, oak, and cherry. For cheaper alternatives, you can choose laminated cabinets that can mimic real wood yet can also offer quality and durability.

For your kitchen countertop installation needs, you can hire professional countertop replacement companies in Potomac. Contact one today!

21

Aug

Why Kitchen Repairs and Renovations in a Rental Property Should Be Addressed Now

If you have a rental property, it is a must that you make the necessary repairs and other improvements to attract potential tenants. After all, a nice-looking house or apartment unit can do a lot in attracting potential property renters. You can do either simple repairs or a major overhaul, depending on the need. For example, you can choose quality quartz countertops or granite countertops for your kitchen.

Speaking of which, one of the first rooms a lot of tenants would check out is the kitchen. It is where most of a tenant’s daily activities would likely take place. More so, it can influence a potential tenant’s decision to avail the property for rent. But for landlords, doing kitchen renovations may not be as easy as it seems although still achievable.

Getting started

Rental property renovations can be challenging and even expensive in some cases. That is why a lot of landlords tend to put these supposedly urgent tasks in the metaphorical back seat. The same applies to planning for a kitchen renovation. Addressing kitchen repair and renovation concerns in your rental property will benefit not only the tenants but also you as a landlord.

As mentioned, it can attract potential renters and think that the property is well-taken cared of. In effect, repairs and renovations can help in increasing your property’s market value. Most of all, addressing these concerns will prevent repairs and renovations in the future.

When planning for a repair or renovation, it can be tempting to keep up with the latest kitchen trends. One instance is choosing the right kitchen countertop such as granite countertops and other countertop options. Then again, trends come and go so it is better to choose kitchen materials that won’t easily go out of style.

Common kitchen renovation trends to avoid

Addressing kitchen repairs and renovation is important especially if you are a landlord. This is to avoid issues that can turn off a potential renter. Aside from that, it is also a reflection of you as a property owner and a property owner. However, make sure to avoid these common mistakes in renovating a rental property’s kitchen.

Using kitchen repair and construction items that are not eco-friendly

Given the increased environmental awareness these days, applying eco-friendly products can appeal especially among old and new-age millennials (around age 20s to 30s). One way is by using paint with little to none of the volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Likewise, use lightings with Energy Star label for optimum energy efficiency and conservation.

Presence of hanging pans and other kitchen utensils

Back then, it is normal to see hanging pans and pots in a household kitchen. Apparently, it makes the kitchen look homey. Apparently, times have changed and so the perception of modern homeowners. Instead of hanging pans and pots, you can have large kitchen drawers installed under quartz kitchen tops or other kitchen countertops.

Using faux wall painting finishes

For one thing, faux finishes are already things of the past. It can even turn off potential tenants. Instead, you can choose to paint with neutral shades because they are easier to maintain. You can also opt for wallpapers if you prefer to go fancy on your kitchen walls.

Things to consider in rental property kitchen renovation

Your budget will be a major factor in planning for a kitchen renovation/repair in your rental property. However, there are other things to consider before proceeding. These are the following.

Kitchen design preference

People especially potential renters have different preference when it comes to kitchen designs. For example, some tenants may prefer having engineered stone countertops while others might prefer other countertop materials. In such cases, it is better to choose a kitchen design that will be acceptable to the general public.

Material

For one, choosing the right kitchen countertop material should be taken consideration as well. It is a major part of your kitchen where durability and quality should be among the top priority. Among popular countertop materials include granite countertops and quartz kitchen countertops. There are other countertop materials available in the market today.

Appliance

For rental properties, it is better to buy electric appliances. Make sure it also suits your budget and made by trusted brands/manufacturers.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of kitchen materials you choose, you should put the future renters’ welfare on top of your list. If there are some parts of the house that need to be repaired, make sure to address it immediately to avoid worse issues in the future. Also, hire only the best countertop replacement companies in Rockville for your kitchen countertop needs.

05

Aug

What to Consider Before Replacing a Countertop

So you are now finally planning for a major overhaul after many years of being stuck with your current kitchen. Having a kitchen makeover may take some time and money to accomplish. Choosing the right materials are also crucial if you want to create a whole new look in your kitchen – and keep it that way. In addition, a kitchen makeover should be planned carefully as it can affect your daily life in one way or another.

If you currently have a countertop, you may also have to consider replacing it as well. It may be more likely especially if your current countertop has been there since the entire house was built decades ago. There are many countertop options you can choose from such as quartz countertops to granite countertops among a few.

Getting started

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in your house. It is also one of those which usually catches the fancy of many visitors and among the favorite areas of many homeowners. No wonder a lot of homeowners choose to invest their time and money to improve their kitchen areas. From choosing the right countertop material down to the accents, it will definitely make or break your kitchen’s overall look.

For your countertop needs, you can hire countertop replacement companies in choosing and installing the best countertop that will suit your needs. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming especially for first-timers to select the best countertops that will complement their actual requirements. Not only should a countertop look aesthetically appealing but also functional and long-lasting.

Different countertop material options

Before going ahead in the kitchen makeover project, you should choose whether to upgrade your countertop or leave it as it is. On one hand, it will depend on your preference and your kitchen design requirements. On the other hand, it can be a good idea to upgrade into quartz kitchen countertops or any other countertop materials available.

Speaking of countertop materials, there are so many options you can choose from. Aside from quartz, other popular countertop material options currently available include the following.

Granite

Granite countertops are also one of the most popular countertop materials around. It is known for its durability and elegance. It is also available in different color options that will suit your kitchen design needs.

Marble

Aside from countertops, marble is also used as tile floorings and walls. It is also available in different colors and patterns that may suit your fancy.

Laminate

This type of countertop material is durable and is also available in different colors, textures, and patterns. It can mimic other materials such as wood except that laminate is more durable and long-lasting than the latter.

Solid surface

This is another type of countertop material that is also available in different colors and patterns. It can be easily integrated into any kitchen sink and seem to complement each other.

How to choose a countertop

Here are some things you need to consider when looking for a kitchen countertop:

Budget

It’s nice to check out kitchen countertop ideas online. However, it may not suit your budget. If the budget is tight, make sure to do it before the entire kitchen renovation project. It will depend on how much you are willing to spend and the lead time you are willing to dedicate for the renovation. At the end of the day, no one wants to exceed your allotted budget which can cause stress later on.

Maintenance level

All countertop materials such as engineered stone countertops and others require some kind of maintenance to ensure its longevity and look. For example, a wood countertop may need applying oil sealant at least once every six months. On the other hand, some stone countertop materials need regular sealing as well. But for quartz and granite, there is no need for sealing – simply wiping it clean with every use is enough.

Alternatives

As mentioned, countertops can be expensive. If you don’t have enough budget to replace it with a new one, you can make it like new again. How? One way is by repainting it. You can also replace a part of the countertop so it won’t be as expensive.

Rely on countertop experts

Countertop replacements may need pros to do the job, much more if it is an entire kitchen makeover project. But if you want to replace your countertop, it is best to hire countertop replacement companies in Rockville. Contact one today!

17

Jul

How to Choose the Right Type of Countertop According to Your Need

With so many amazing countertop options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one that will suit your needs. There are some of the most popular ones including quartz kitchen countertops and granite countertops among a few. That is why it is important to know the different types of countertops, their respective features, and proper maintenance of each.

In choosing a countertop, you should not only look at each option according to its aesthetic appeal. They are more than just their material and pleasant appearance. Rather, each countertop material offers benefits that can make homeowners’ kitchen experience more worthwhile.

What to look for in a countertop

There are several factors to consider when looking for a countertop. For one, it depends on your personal preference in terms of physical appearance. Aside from that, here are some other considerations when looking for a countertop.

Lifestyle

First of all, you should determine the different types of countertops. Among popular ones include granite countertops and engineered stone countertops. Each of these countertops offers unique features that can benefit their users. From there, you can narrow down your options so you can determine which countertop will suit your needs.

Maintenance

Some homeowners like to maintain their homes as often, while others are not so much. Depending on who you are between the two, choose a type of countertop depending on your maintenance tolerance. For example, there are low-maintenance ones such as quartz countertops, while others have porous material that needs frequent cleaning.

Budget

There are some budget-friendly countertop materials such as laminate and tile. If you are willing to spend more on a countertop, you can choose materials such as granite and quartz.

Usage

Choosing a countertop will also depend on how often you will use it.  If you love to cook and would most likely use your countertops, choose easy-to-clean and durable countertops such as stainless steel, resin, or porcelain. Some countertops may also stain easily or cannot handle heat well, so make sure to know more about your options.

Environment-friendly

If you are keen on adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle, there are countertop materials that offer just that. For example, some countertops are made from recyclable materials that are very eco-friendly.

Popular countertop materials

Among popular countertop materials you can choose from have their own pros and cons. That is why it is important to be familiar with these options so you can choose the right one for you.

Quartz

It is a popular countertop material that is guaranteed to be durable and easy to maintain. It can also resist scratches and won’t require frequent sealing. However, be careful when putting hot items on it as it is not really heat-resistant.

Porcelain

It can be more suitable for contemporary homes and has different color options. It is also easy to clean due to its non-porous surface.

Granite

It has a luxurious and elegant appearance, yet it is also scratch-resistant and durable. Make sure to seal regularly so it would last longer.

Laminate

It is also available in different color options and can adapt to the same appearance as other countertop materials.

Marble

It has surpassed the test of time in terms of being one of the best building materials out there. It can look good in your kitchen, too. Make sure to seal it regularly as it can be prone to staining.

Other tips to remember

The above-mentioned types of countertop materials are only some of the many more options available. It can be overwhelming to choose the right countertop material, but you should be stressed when doing so. Here are some tips to remember before calling countertop replacement companies to install a new countertop.

  • Choose the countertop first before building or remodeling your kitchen. Most likely that your countertop will set the theme of your kitchen.
  • Make sure that the countertop you choose will blend in with the other kitchen finishings. Check slab samples before buying or installing the actual countertop in your kitchen
  • Don’t be afraid to choose a countertop material that is too meticulous to maintain or are prone to stains. It really depends on your personal preference and your willingness to ensure the material’s longevity.
  • Pay attention to your backsplashes as it can add character to your countertop and your kitchen in general.

Find a reliable countertop contractor near you

For your countertop installation needs, make sure to deal only with reliable and skilled countertop replacement companies in Rockville.

09

Jul

Granite Countertops: More than Just a Kitchen Centerpiece

Countertops are usually installed in kitchens and bathrooms. There are also different countertop materials available such as quartz countertops and granite countertops among a few. With so many choices to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the right one that will suit your needs. For one thing, you should be familiar with the popular types of countertops available in the market nowadays.

Common countertop materials

There are different types of countertop materials commonly used in homes and commercial establishments. Among these include the following:

Natural stone

Under natural stones are quarried stone materials such as marble and granite. The former is also a popular countertop and flooring material that has naturally-elegant patterns that do not need painting. It also requires high maintenance levels and frequent sealing to ensure its high-quality appearance for a long time.

The latter, on the other hand, was once a countertop for well-off families. But over the years, it has become more common in many households and is also one of the most popular. Granite kitchen countertops come in different colors and designs that will suit your personal preference. It is also heat-resistant, but make sure to have it sealed and cleaned regularly.

Engineered stone

Another popular countertop material is the engineered stone countertops. It is made mostly from quartz material. It is also known in other names as Cambria, Zodiaq, and Silestone among a few, all of which do not require frequent sealing. It can be expensive yet can make your kitchen or bathroom attractive.

Ceramic

Tiles can also be a great countertop material, but one of the most popular ones is made from ceramic. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, patterns, and designs, and make sure to choose tiles that are suitable for as countertops and floors. It may also need regular resealing to ensure its quality appearance all the time.

Where you can use granite countertops

Most likely you have already heard about countertops made from granite. Or perhaps you have one at home installed by professional granite countertop installers. However, countertops including granite or other materials can also be used in different ways aside from kitchen and bathroom purpose.

For one thing, granite counters have an attractive appearance and can make a difference to any home. However, granite does not only look good in the bathroom and the kitchen. Here are some other locations in your home where you can install countertops.

Laundry area

If you have or planning to have a laundry area in your home, you can consider installing a granite counter there. For one, it can serve as additional counter space. You can even add storage cabinets underneath for more storage space. Instead of placing newly-folded laundry and other cleaning products on the floor, you can utilize the countertop instead.

Home office/study room

You can use a table made from granite as your office or study table. You can also create a countertop with built-in cabinets or storage area underneath that can serve as additional shelving space.

Dining table

Instead of the usual granite countertop, you can have a dining table built from granite or add a granite slab as a table top. You can also from a variety of designs and patterns that will suit your needs.

Flooring

Some floor tiles are made from granite which you can opt to use for your home. You can even mix and match granite tiles to add a unique appeal to your home flooring. Make sure to clean and vacuum the floor regularly to ensure its shiny and long-lasting quality and appearance.

Home décor and accessories

A simple square slab of granite can make a room look interestingly different. For example, you can use it as additional shelving area for bathrooms or the living room. You can also mount a small slab of granite and put on brackets or frames for an instant piece of art on your living room or kitchen walls.

The future of granite

While there are a lot of innovations in terms of countertop materials, granite companies will continue to serve customers for the next years to come. Stainless steel and laminate countertops are continuing to make waves in the countertop industry. Yet, the appeal of granite and other traditional countertop materials won’t go out of style anytime soon.

Finding reliable countertop suppliers near you

For your countertop needs, make sure to deal only with professional and trustworthy countertop replacement companies in Rockville. Contact one and avail free consultation services today.

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.

 

04

Jun

Keep your Kitchen Organized and Clutter-Free

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

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

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

What to store

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

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

Canisters

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

Dish rack

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

Paper towel

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

Coffee maker

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

Fruits and vegetable basket

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

What you can probably store

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

Chopping board

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

Blender/food processor/mixers

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

Microwave/toaster

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

What you should not store

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

Tea sets

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

Other kitchen appliances

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

Home décor

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

Are you looking for a new kitchen counter?

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