Author Archives: Countertop

Upgrade Your Kitchen: How to Select Everything

kitchen countertop replacement

The kitchen is the most important room of your home. It is also the most complicated area when you try to upgrade or remodel. Thanks to seemingly limitless options you have for kitchen countertops, cabinets, and flooring materials, kitchen remodelling task becomes even more difficult. There are so many items available on the market. Choosing the best item as per the needs, requirements, budget and decor of the kitchen is so confusing.

Kitchen remodelling

Homeowners opt for kitchen remodelling when they want to improve the look, comfort and value of their kitchen. It is not possible to achieve this by selecting the wrong item. The homeowners need to be very precise with their requirements. Instead of rushing for shopping, they should first analyze their requirements, gather information about kitchen trends, and then choose the kitchen items.

Kitchen cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are integrated part of the modern kitchens. They have more functional value than aesthetic value. There are plenty of things that you need to consider while choosing the kitchen cabinets, some of them are:

Kitchen cabinets should be installed at the right place
Kitchen cabinets should be easily accessible
Kitchen cabinets should neither be too small nor too large
Kitchen cabinets should match with the kitchen decoration theme
Kitchen cabinets should be made from the durable material
Kitchen cabinets should be easy to clean
Kitchen cabinets should not be too expensive

Kitchen flooring

Generally, homeowners plan for the kitchen remodelling or renovation because of slippery kitchen flooring. Kitchen flooring consumes a lot of kitchen remodelling budget. It is essential to look for following features while selecting the kitchen flooring:

Kitchen flooring surface should not be slippery, even when the floor is wet
Kitchen flooring material should not get stained easily
Kitchen flooring material should be easy to clean
Kitchen flooring material should look good
Kitchen flooring should match with the rest of kitchen decor
Kitchen flooring material should not be too expensive

Kitchen countertops

Kitchen countertop replacement one of the important tasks of kitchen renovation. You need to look for below mentioned features, while choosing the kitchen countertop:

Kitchen countertop should look good
Kitchen countertop should be heat, germ and stain resistant
Kitchen countertop should be easy to clean
Kitchen countertop should be durable
Kitchen countertop should low-maintenance

All About Silestone Countertops

granite kitchen countertops

When remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, silestone countertops are one of the countertop options that you can go with. The units are made from quartz which is one of the hardest natural materials. This feature makes the countertops tough and durable. Since they are hard, they are resistant to scorch and scratches.

Other pros of silestone countertops

In addition to the above advantages, the countertops are also known to be non-porous. This makes them resistant to stains as foods and liquids can’t penetrate below their surface. It’s common for bacteria to grown in bathrooms and kitchens. Since the countertops come with in-built antimicrobials, they are able to prevent bacteria growth.

The reason why you are installing bathroom or kitchen countertops is because you want your kitchen or bathroom to look beautiful. These countertops are elegant looking; therefore, when you install them you greatly improve the look of the room you install them.

Since the units are naturally non-porous you don’t have to seal them. This saves you the time and money that you would have spent doing the work. While the units are tough and elegant looking, they have their fair share of negatives. One of the negatives is that they are expensive to purchase when compared to laminate or granite countertops. When they break, they are not easy to repair compared to their Corian countertops.

How to clean the countertops

One of the basic things that you have to do to keep your countertops in good condition is regularly cleaning them. The best way of cleaning silestone is using soap and water. To give them a cleaner look it’s wise that you use a cleaner. While the material is tough thus you can use any chemical to clean it, it’s wise that you reduce the chances of damaging it by using a mild cleaner. To avoid chipping the surface you should avoid using scouring pads.

After washing the surface rinse it thoroughly using a dry cloth and paper towel. As rule of thumb never allow soap, water or any chemical to stand on the surface as it will result to ugly spots, film or streaks.

Conclusion

This is what you need to know about silistone. For it to last for long you need to take good care of it. In addition to cleaning it regularly you also need to avoid placing hot cooking pots directly on it. During installation, ensure that the countertop is installed by a professional countertop contractor raleigh nc.

Real benefits of granite for your kitchen and bathroom

If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, countertop is one of the important aspects to consider. A countertop can either make or break the decor of your kitchen and bathroom. It is important to select the right countertop material, as plenty of countertop materials are present on the market. Among the crowd of countertops, granite countertops are the most trending countertop material. This surface has its own charm. However, granite countertops are more expensive than other countertops, but they worth every penny you spend on them.

Advantages of granite countertops

Granite is the suitable countertop material for both kitchens and bathrooms. This natural stone is capable of withstanding against heat and load, as well as water and chemicals. Take sneak peek over below mentioned benefits of granite kitchen and bathroom countertops:

Granite Countertops Possess Timeless Beauty

Home decor trends come and go, but timeless beauty of granite countertops remain in trend. This material is always finds its spot at top in home improvement and remodeling magazines. The color and texture of granite countertops never fades.

Granite Countertops Offer Unique Results

Since granite slabs are made from natural stone, every slab has its own unique pattern. No two granite slabs are identical to each other. Thus, you need not have to worry about your countertop from being copied.

Granite Countertops Are Extremely Sanitary

Hygiene is important for both kitchen and bathroom. One of the biggest advantages of selecting granite surface is that it is a non-porous. Thus, it does not require a lot of maintenance and germs can’t hide anywhere. You can clean it with soap water and cloth. However, you need to pay attention over granite countertop sealing.

Granite Countertops Add Value to Your Home

Granite countertops are ultimate addition to home. The granite bathroom countertop apex increases the value of bathroom, whereas granite kitchen countertop increases the value of kitchen. You will get full value of your money with granite countertop.

Granite countertops are can be a value to home. You should choose the right contractor for countertop installation. The countertop installation should be done in an adequate manner.

How to Mix and Match Different Countertop Materials with Carpentry

Different countertop materials have already graced countless kitchens all over the world. On the other hand, cabinetry is also a staple in most household areas including the kitchen. Each option offers its own benefits in terms of functionality, material, and aesthetic value. But how about combining the two?

Apparently, marrying countertops and kitchen cabinetry is already a thing. In fact, there are a lot of countertop-cabinetry combination options to choose from. Imagine having quartz countertops or granite countertops built with high-quality kitchen cabinets. It may be the refreshing change you are looking for in your kitchen.

Choosing a great countertop and cabinetry material combination

It is important to choose the right combination of countertop and cabinetry materials to achieve that aesthetic appeal you are looking for. It also offers several benefits for the homeowner. Aside from enhancing your kitchen’s overall aesthetic value, it can also save you money unlike building entire marble countertops or any other expensive countertop materials.

When matching countertop and cabinetry materials, you can pair them either to contrast or complement each other. Regardless of the options, these can both create a satisfying look to your kitchen. You can also check out different countertop material samples from countertop replacement companies so you can decide which cabinetry material to choose.

Combining countertop and cabinetry in your kitchen can be overwhelming especially if you are not really familiar about it. However, it will be more on implementing good color coordination, striking a good balance between the two materials, and trusting your personal judgment.

In choosing cabinetry material

Choosing the right cabinetry material should not be a chore. On the one hand, there are many cabinetry materials you can choose from. There are also framed and frameless cabinets, and those that can be customized. Framed cabinets are more suitable for traditional kitchens, while frameless ones are more apt for modern and trendy kitchen themes.

There are prefabricated cabinets available that you can simply install and ready to use. On the other hand, there are also semi-custom cabinets that have already basic finishing. It’s up to you to add accessories and paint color as finishing touches. If you want unique cabinetry, you can have a customized cabinet made by a professional carpenter or contractor.

So, here we are in the most important aspect of choosing cabinetry: the material. Among popular cabinetry materials include:

Pine – provides a rugged look on the cabinetry
Cherry – durable and combines well with other wood materials
Maple – ideal for both contemporary and traditional cabinetry designs
Oak – looks good whether dark or light-colored and very durable
Laminate – a good and cheaper alternative for expensive wood cabinetry materials

In choosing a countertop material

Meanwhile, there are also a lot of kitchen countertops materials you can choose from. Among popular ones include granite and quartz. Granite is known for its durability and timeless beauty. On the other hand, quartz is also a good choice because of its non-porous properties.

However, you can choose other types of countertop materials aside from the abovementioned options. Among these include the following.

Laminate

There are different laminate options that look expensive but are actually at a fraction of the cost. It can also mimic different countertop materials of your choice without spending too much.

Marble

This is one classic and timeless option for an expensive countertop. It looks good in every home and the material is also used for other options such as flooring and bathroom walls. Be ready to shell out extra cash to avail this type of countertop.

Stainless steel

This countertop material looks heavy-duty, yet is also a durable and stain-resistant option. Plus, it is easy to clean and maintain as well as it is hygienic.

Wood

It is another popular countertop material that is ideal for a rustic-themed kitchen. However, it can be a little tedious to maintain as it can be prone to wear and tear over the years.

Tips on combining countertop and cabinetry

Here are some tips to mix and match countertop and cabinetry materials. For one thing, it can make your kitchen look more interesting and practical. Also, adding an accent on your kitchen island or countertop can serve as a focal point and enhance aesthetic appeal. This can work better if your kitchen’s color scheme is on the neutral side.

It is also a good idea to create a balance between dark and light accents and materials. It exudes elegance and classic beauty of kitchen interiors. For your needs for kitchen countertops, it is best to hire professional granite companies in Durham.

Best Countertop Materials for Outdoor Kitchens

Most kitchens are not complete without kitchen countertops. There are many countertops you can choose for your kitchen. There are marble countertops, granite countertops, and other countertop material of your choice. Regardless of your option, it should serve you well and your kitchen escapades for many years.

Meanwhile, more and more households have outdoor kitchens in their homes. Outdoor living has become popular in the past few years. It has also redefined how homeowners entertain guests. Instead of staying and spending time indoors, outdoor living has paved the way for homeowners and guests appreciate the outside view while enjoying each other’s company.

One popular addition in many homes today is an outdoor kitchen. Aside from an outdoor cooking area, it also serves as an entertainment area for friends and family. You can install an oven, stove, and refrigerator in your outdoor kitchen. A countertop is also an essential add-on to your outdoor kitchen.

However, it is important to choose the right countertop material for the outdoor kitchen. As mentioned, there are many kinds of countertop materials you can choose from. Yet, not all of these materials are appropriate for outdoor use. That is why you should know the right kind of countertop material for your outdoor kitchen.

Why you should choose countertops that are specific for outdoor use

An outdoor countertop is a must-have for your outdoor kitchen. This is the area where you will do the food preparation and serving. As mentioned, choosing the right countertop material for your outdoor kitchen is important. For one, the countertop will be subjected to constant exposure to various outdoor elements.

Likewise, an outdoor countertop should be weather-resistant, durable, and easy to clean and maintain. Not to mention, it should look attractive as well. The type of countertop will also depend on your budget. Nevertheless, you should choose the one that will suit your outdoor kitchen needs.

Popular outdoor countertop materials

Here are some of the most appropriate countertop materials for an outdoor kitchen.

Granite

Granite kitchen countertops are considered among the top choice when it comes to outdoor countertop materials. It has a durable stone material that can tolerate all types of weather and elements. Granite is also available in different color options that won’t easily fade due to exposure to UV rays. It should also be sealed properly for long-lasting results.

Tiles

It is another countertop material that is more suitable for warmer locations. On the other hand, it is not recommended for areas with cold weather as it can crack during extreme weather conditions. Preferably, you can use either granite or porcelain tiles as it can be less prone to fading, unlike ceramic tiles.

Brick or flagstone

These materials are more commonly used as pathways for patios. However, these can also be a good outdoor countertop material. Brick or flagstone countertops look good in a rustic-themed outdoor kitchen. The materials are also porous, but you can use an acrylic sealer for easier cleaning and stain resistance.

Soapstone

This is another countertop material that can be used for outdoor kitchens. It has a dense material that is also stain and heat-resistant. There is no need for sealing and it won’t easily fade. Just make sure to apply mineral oil periodically to enhance the look of the material.

Countertop materials that should NOT be used outdoors

On the other hand, there are countertop materials that are not recommended for outdoor use. One of them is quartz countertops. For one, the color can easily fade when frequently exposed to sunlight. Formica is also not recommended as an outdoor countertop material. This material may not tolerate humidity and moisture as it also has a particleboard core.

Likewise, Formica is also susceptible to warping and deterioration when exposed to harsh outdoor elements. Concrete can also be a good outdoor countertop material. However, it should be installed properly and applied with sealant regularly to avoid staining and cracking.

Conclusion

Having an outdoor kitchen is a great idea given the popularity of outdoor living these past few years. However, you should also consider the right material you will install in the outdoor kitchen. For one, it should withstand all types of outdoor elements and ensure that it will last for years. You can hire granite countertop installers for your outdoor countertop needs. Better yet, contact the best contractors specializing in countertop replacement in Raleigh.

Tips on Painting your Kitchen Countertop

A kitchen countertop is one of the first things a person will notice when they go to the kitchen area. It is where a lot of things happen – from putting kitchenware and utensils on top to cutting, preparing, and serving food. Countertops such as granite countertops and quartz countertops have their respective pros and cons. Nonetheless, these are some of the most popular countertop materials available in the market.

But at some point, you may find your current countertop boring or unattractive. It may also have some discoloration or chips due to years of use. That may give you an idea to call a countertop replacement company to have your old countertop replaced. However, you should consider the fact that replacing your countertop means additional expense as well.

But there are other options to keep your countertop look good without replacing it – paint it. Yes, it is possible to paint your countertop and give it a fresh makeover. It may seem easy as it seems, but it depends on the countertop material. Better yet, you can hire professional painters for a high-quality finish.

Getting the paint job started

First of all, it is important to clean the countertop surface first before doing anything else. A kitchen countertop has most likely already endured years’ worth of stains, spills, and scratches. No wonder it may not look as majestic as it was years ago.

Sometimes, even simply wiping the countertop surface may not be enough. So before painting the countertop, make sure to use a cleaner that contains trisodium phosphate. This ingredient can dissolve residue such as grease. Once applied, leave it for a few seconds before rinsing thoroughly.

After cleaning the countertop surface with the appropriate cleaner, you should scruff the surface to ensure that the paint will adhere more easily. You can use sandpaper to slightly scruff the countertop’s surface. After sanding, remove the dust by vacuuming it and wipe the kitchen countertops of any remaining specks using a clean damp cloth.

It is also required to use primer on a countertop surface especially if it’s plastic or laminate. Meanwhile, experts suggest using an epoxy paint that is water-based or acrylic enamel paint. Both types of paint can work without a primer. There are also other paint kits available in your local home improvement stores depending on your personal preference and needs.

Use either a brush or roller to paint the countertop surface. Make sure not to leave obvious brush marks when painting the countertop. You may also have to paint the surface multiple times for better results – just let the paint dry first before applying another coat.

Mistakes to avoid when choosing a countertop

Some owners tend to DIY things to save money, and one way to save their countertop is by painting it. While it is a good idea to give it a fresher look, it may also require maintenance so the paint job lasts for long. On the other hand, you can also call granite countertop installers to repair or replace your countertop.

Who doesn’t want to be always in with the latest trends? However, trends always come and go. When that currently trendy countertop becomes outdated, you would end up replacing it yet again with whatever’s the latest countertop design. Basically, it is just a waste of money. If you want to make your countertop trendy without constantly changing it, make it your own and inject your personality in it.

There are also different types of countertops such as granite kitchen countertops, laminate, wood, and quartz. Each of these countertops also has its own pros and cons, so you should choose one that will suit your needs. If you want to repaint it, you should also know the right way of doing it so that the paint job will last for long.

Countertop care and maintenance tips

No matter how beautiful and well-painted your countertop is, you should give it the utmost care so it will last longer. Here are some tips to ensure your countertop’s longevity.

Use a cutting board when chopping food and avoid scratching the countertop surface.
Wipe the countertop surface using a clean and damp cloth every time you use it.
Make sure to wipe off any stains when it occurs to avoid marking on the countertop surface and ruining its appearance.
Avoid putting hot containers directly on the countertop surface, and use a trivet or heat pad before placing the container.

Call countertop experts near you

For your countertop needs, trust only the professionals. Contact the best granite countertop installers in Durham today!

Give Your Apartment Kitchen A Makeover It Deserves

No apartment is perfect. It can be too cramped which decorating it can be challenging. Speaking of decorating, most apartment owners do not allow major renovations inside each unit even if the cost will be shouldered by the tenant. That leaves the tenant no choice but to deal with outdated flooring and kitchen countertops.

However, this does not mean you have to get stuck with your plain and boring kitchen. Even without a major remodeling, you can still make your kitchen look trendy and fresh any time of the day. All you need is to remove and add some items that will help create a whole new look to your kitchen. Regardless whether you have marble countertops or quartz countertops, the key here is resourcefulness to make your kitchen look customized with a personal touch.

Getting started

As mentioned, some apartment landlords do not allow major renovations inside a unit. That leaves you with the option to focus on other things such as adding or updating kitchen décor instead. As experts say, having a small kitchen does not mean it’s less good than bigger ones. In fact, smaller kitchens are more efficient to use than larger ones.

That said, your kitchen does not need to have the most expensive granite countertops nor the latest kitchen appliances. All you need is a good kitchen decorating plan that can work even for ample-spaced kitchen such as yours. Also, it is important to address the most common kitchen issues: wrong lighting, too much clutter, and lack of counter space.

Three major kitchen issues

A kitchen renovation does not always necessarily mean spending on thousands of dollars for expensive tools and equipment. More often than not, practicality and resourcefulness can be major keys.

Dealing with clutter

One of the major reasons for clutter is due to a lack of storage space. However, it is not solely to blame. Instead, you can declutter your kitchen of unnecessary items. Go through your kitchen cupboards and cabinets and do something about those pans and utensils that have not been used for years. Once decluttered of unnecessary items, you can start putting the more important and useful items inside your cabinets.

Maximizing countertop space

Some homeowners tend to put additional stuff on their quartz kitchen countertops because there is no additional storage space left. That leaves you with a small workspace to do your thing in the kitchen. One way to add countertop space is by decluttering as mentioned above.

Dim lighting

Dim lights can make the kitchen look smaller and uninviting. You can either change your lighting or repaint your walls into a lighter color. You can also add under-cabinet lighting to make the kitchen work area lighter and at the same time accentuate your cabinets.

Decorating your apartment kitchen with these simple tips

Here are some kitchen decorating ideas you may consider trying, without having to resort to a major overhaul or calling a countertop replacement company.

Repurpose unused items.

For example, you can repurpose an old drawer or table and turn it into an improvised kitchen island that is perfect for a small kitchen. You can simply store it away when not in use and add up to additional floor space.

Change your cabinet handles.

Perhaps you can consider changing your kitchen cabinet handles to add a personalized touch to your kitchen. It can make your cabinet look fresher without the major overhaul.

Add artsy stuff to your kitchen area.

You may be concerned that you will add clutter to your kitchen, but not so when you add some artsy stuff. You can hang a colorful painting on your kitchen walls or add other artsy items on your kitchen countertop – say, a trendy basket or a colorful rug.

Use a tray to organize your kitchen items.

If you have unused trays in your kitchen, why not use it as additional storage space? You can use it to put your condiments, plates, and other kitchen utensils – it’s your call.

Add greens.

Adding potted plants into your home, including the kitchen, can give a breath of fresh air into your living space. Choose plants that are easy to maintain and care.

Add a rug on your kitchen floor.

Instead of worrying about your outdated kitchen flooring, you can just cover it up with a beautiful rug instead. It can add cushion to your feet as well, making your task at the kitchen more comfortable.

Give your kitchen a fresher look now

For your countertop needs, you can check out companies specializing in countertop replacement in Durham.

How to Clean Your Countertop Without Damaging The Material

Kitchen countertops are one of the most frequently-used home items. More often than not, you would be using it even if you do not cook every day. It is usually where you put down your groceries, take-home meals, and other random items. Your kitchen countertop has also most likely experienced a lot of spills and scratches.

That said, your granite kitchen countertops may have already taken a beating over the years. Sure, you take pride in ensuring that your countertop is cleaned before you go to bed. But the question is this: how sure are you that your countertop is really clean from deep-seated dirt that has accumulated through the years?

There are different materials used for countertops – from quartz kitchen countertops, marble, granite, laminate, and so on. Each of these countertop materials has its respective benefits. Likewise, each of them has specific cleaning and maintenance requirements that need to be followed. Otherwise, it can damage the countertop material for good.

How to clean marble countertops

Marble material looks classic and elegant, whether as countertop or flooring material. It has different designs and colors you can choose from. However, marble countertops are prone to scratches and tend to stain easily. If you are a little OC than usual, you may find this annoying and may end up hiring a countertop replacement company to replace your countertop.

But the good news is that marble is generally easy to clean – much better if you keep it well-maintained every day. You don’t need to use commercial cleaners to clean your marble countertop. Here are some simple cleaning tips for these types of countertops.

Avoid using cleaners with an acid content, whether it’s a commercial or home-made cleaner containing lemon juice or vinegar. It can cause etchings and stain marks on the surface.
For deep-seated stains, use baking soda mixed with water, form it into a paste, apply on the stained area, and let it sit for around 24 hours before wiping it off. If it doesn’t work, you can consider hiring professional cleaning personnel instead.
Use a damp and soft cloth when wiping the marble countertop to prevent scratching the countertop material. Then wipe dry using a separate clean, dry cloth.
Use a product specially formulated for marble material. This can help make the countertop look like new again.

How to clean granite countertops

Some suggest cleaning granite countertops using commercial cleaners. Others say you should only use cleaners specially made for granite. It’s your call, but experts say there is no need to fight which option is better. You can use warm and soapy water, a microfiber cloth, and perhaps isopropyl alcohol. Here are other tips in cleaning a granite countertop.

Avoid using scrub pads in cleaning the countertop as it can possibly scratch its surface. You can also use a mild bleach solution to clean the countertop.
Mix baking soda and water, create a paste, and then scrub the mixture on the stained area using a soft brush. Let it sit for 24 hours before rinsing off. It may require reapplications to remove the stain completely.
Use a product specially formulated for granite and make the countertop look like new again.

How to clean quartz countertops

One of the major selling points of quartz is that it’s non-porous. Meaning, it won’t cause deep-seated stains, bacteria build-up, and scratching. But this does not mean you won’t clean it anymore.

You can use a commercial cleaner to maintain the quality of the countertop material. Or, you can also use gentle dish soap, warm water, and microfiber cloth to clean the countertop surface. Clean the surface immediately when spills occur.

How to clean other kitchen countertop materials

Here are other cleaning and maintenance tips for other countertop materials.

For wood countertops, use salt and sprinkle on light stains and scrub using half a lemon. Let it sit overnight and rinse with water and dry using a clean cloth. For darker stains, dab it with cotton with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. Use mild dish soap, warm water, and clean cloth to wipe clean the surface.
For stainless steel countertops, use commercial cleaners specific for stainless steel material to remove smudges and other marks.
For glass countertops, use a glass or multi-purpose cleaner to wipe the countertop surface.
For ceramic countertops, use white vinegar to remove stains and to make the surface sparkling clean. Scrub the grout using mild bleach and old toothbrush and then seal with commercial grout sealer.

For your countertop needs, you can check out granite countertop installers in NC today.

How to Create Additional Space on your Kitchen

It is nice to have a large kitchen where it can accommodate all of your kitchenware and appliances. Having a large kitchen can help you move around easier and more comfortably. Likewise, you can have the opportunity to upgrade your kitchen countertops and make your kitchen look luxurious and elegant.

However, not all households have spacious kitchens. That is why kitchen renovations or remodeling may be a challenge for them. But that doesn’t mean you cannot do something about your small kitchen anymore. In fact, there can be ways to make your kitchen stand out and create additional space.

Some ways to improve and make your kitchen look bigger and spacious is by removing clutter, utilizing your kitchen countertops and cabinets, and use other parts of your kitchen area. It takes resourcefulness and creativity to improve your kitchen instead of spending extra cash for a countertop replacement or tearing down your kitchen walls.

Remove clutter

One important step to create additional space on your marble countertops is to remove clutter. For one, too much clutter on the countertop surface can limit your working space. Some people tend to be stressed easily when they see unnecessary clutter. As a result, it can affect their productivity and mood throughout the day.

Homeowners tend to put things on kitchen counters to get access to it easier. Plates and other utensils are often placed on the counter area. However, this common practice can limit your workspace and inadvertently create clutter in the kitchen. In such cases, perhaps you may consider having open shelving for your kitchen utensils.

Meanwhile, cookbooks can come in handy in the kitchen unless you use it often. Still, your cookbooks should be stored somewhere that won’t cause clutter in your kitchen. Otherwise, it may be a good idea to keep them inside a cabinet or give them away if you are not using it anymore.

But if you tend to look over your cookbooks for recipe ideas, why not try to replace it with something compact and more modern-looking? Consider installing a tablet containing kitchen-related apps that can help with your cooking activities. Use a hook or stand where you can secure the tablet. Make sure to keep it away from the stove or sink.

Utilize your kitchen countertop and cabinets

If you have enough space to add granite kitchen countertops or a kitchen island, you can use it as an additional storage space. Or, you can improvise by using your old drawer or dresser and turn it into your own kitchen island. You can repaint it, readjust its size, and add accessories and other features so it would match your kitchen theme as well.

You can do more to your existing cabinet and countertops, too. Use hooks and hanging organizers and install them on the countertop walls or inside the cabinets for additional storage for kitchen utensils and cleaning items. There are hanging racks that do not need screws to be installed. However, make sure it has strong support and only use these hanging organizers one hook at a time to ensure its stability.

You can also put other items inside the kitchen drawer aside from plates and silverware. Remove small clutter from your countertops by storing spices and other pantry items inside the drawer.

Use other parts of your kitchen area

Aside from the countertops, cabinets, and cupboards, you can also use other parts of your kitchen area as an additional storage area. For example, you can use the kitchen window sill to put your cleaning items or some kitchen canisters. You can also put small potted plants on the sill to add a touch of nature on your kitchen.

You can also turn your stove burner cover as additional workspace. Likewise, the space on top of the kitchen wall cabinet can also serve as an additional storage area. You can also utilize that slim space between your refrigerator and kitchen wall. You can build a DIY cabinet in that area, or use it to store cleaning tools such as the kitchen mop.

Big or small, you can make the most out of your kitchen space

It doesn’t matter how big or small your kitchen is. Creativity and resourcefulness are keys for a cheap yet worthwhile kitchen renovation. But if you are planning for a countertop replacement, you can contact professional and reliable granite countertop installers in Durham and check them out today.

What You Should Consider for Bathroom Remodeling

Having an attractive bathroom can help lift up your mood and start your day right. Moreover, installing marble countertops or other countertop material can offer a luxurious ambiance in your bath area. However, a bathroom makeover may cost you thousands of dollars depending on the materials you choose.

If you have the budget to plan for your bathroom makeover, then why not? But sometimes, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to achieve the bathroom you always wanted.

That said, there are many ways to have a bathroom renovation without taking a toll on your budget. It takes a matter of creativity and resourcefulness to achieve your dream bathroom. The bathroom should not be taken for granted and deserves a makeover that is worth the time and money.

Why you should remodel your bathroom

Upgrading your bathroom is more than enhancing its overall appearance. On one hand, adding new quartz countertops can make the bathroom look more luxurious. A bathroom makeover can also add value to your home especially if you plan on selling it in the future. Other reasons why you should consider remodeling your bathroom include:

Your bathroom is already outdated.

Perhaps you have been living in your home for many years now. Most likely, the bathroom’s design may have still been living in the ’90s and we all know it’s already 2019. The plumbing systems also deteriorate over time. At this point, you may have to consider updating your bathroom.

An outdated bathroom can also make you feel unhappy and put you out of the mood. Also, you may feel embarrassed to let your guests use the bathroom and even secretly judged for it. If you don’t want these to happen, it’s high time to renovate your bathroom.

Your bathroom needs additional space.

Perhaps you might be living in your house after getting married. Years later, you had children and even got pets. So basically, there are more people now than when you got the house years ago. You needed more space in the house than before, and that includes bathroom space.

If you want to refresh your bathroom’s look, you can install granite countertops. The bottom part of the countertop can also serve as an extra storage area. Or, you can hire countertop replacement companies to replace your current countertop into a more efficient and space-saving one.

Your bathroom is reeking of mold and mildew.

Mold and mildew can cause unpleasant smells in the bathroom. Plus, it can make the floor slippery if not regularly cleaned. This can cause accidental slipping among family members. It does not help either when there’s a presence of broken tiles and leaky pipes. In such cases, you should consider remodeling your bathroom.

Things to consider before doing a bathroom renovation

Before planning to renovate your bathroom, you should consider the following first:

How much is your budget?

It depends on how much you are willing to spend on your bathroom renovation project. If you have a budget of $1,000 and below, you can consider replacing some fixtures and sink. You can opt for repainting your bathroom as well. With more than $1,000 and above budget, you can change your tiles, buy a new shower set, or replace the bathroom window.

What should you add or remove?

It depends on your current bathroom area. If you have a smaller bathroom, you may opt for a glass door-free bath area or lower your sink. If you have an elderly person living with you, it may be a good idea to install grab bars for safety purposes.

Do you need professional services?

You may need one depending on the type of service you are getting. For example, you can hire granite contractors to install a new countertop. Or plumbing services if you need to replace your current plumbing system.

Other bathroom remodeling tips

You can make a bathroom look bigger without the need to tear down walls. A small bathroom can feel intimate and cozy. But for claustrophobics, it can be a total nightmare. Here are some tips to make your bathroom look bigger:

Use pale and neutral color schemes like light gray, white, beige, or taupe. Make it consistent from the flooring to the walls.
Let natural light in if possible by using wide, opaque-glass windows.
Use a pedestal sink and add cabinets near the ceiling area for storage.
Add a large mirror in the sink area to create an illusion of space.
Remove unnecessary clutter and accessories that can block your view.

Finding a reliable bathroom remodeling contractor

For your countertop installation needs, you can hire the best granite countertop installers in Raleigh. Contact one today!