Tag Archives: best countertop

Things to Consider Before Replacing Your Countertop

At some point, your bathroom or kitchen countertop will need some updating. It depends on your requirement. For example, you want to upgrade your current bathroom countertop and choose among brand-new quartz countertops options. Or you are eyeing granite kitchen countertops as a good replacement to your kitchen countertop.

However, it is important to consider different factors when you decide to replace your countertop. For one thing, countertop replacement doesn’t come cheap. It will also require setting a budget and creating a plan covering the “before, during, and after” the installation process.

Countertop installation may not affect your daily life. Still, it is important to plan ahead because it’s still considered as a major home project. Here are some important factors you need to think about before replacing a countertop.

What are the different countertop options?

There are different types of countertop materials you can choose from. Among popular countertop material options include:

  • Quartz – offers different color and pattern design options. It is also known for its durability.
  • Granite – offers attractive design and color options and has been one of the most popular countertop material for many years.
  • Marble – a natural stone material common in most residential projects. It offers elegant design options and is one of the most popular countertops and flooring designs for years.
  • Laminate – also known for its durability, different color, and design options.
  • Solid Surface – also available in different designs, colors, and finishing.
  • Concrete – offers a simple yet durable design. You can design and paint it any way you want.

Each of these popular countertop materials varies in material and labor costs. For example, marble and granite are the more expensive types among the above options. On the other hand, laminate material is more affordable in terms of installation and material costs.

Replacing your countertops depend on your need. For example, you may need to upgrade the countertop if it already has an outdated design. Likewise, maintenance problems may also contribute to the decision to replace the countertop. Damaged countertops may also need to be replaced as it can harbor bacteria and even cause potential injuries.

Before installation, make sure that the cabinets can support heavier countertop materials. Also, consider each countertop material’s maintenance needs. For example, granite countertops may need resealing from time to time. On the other hand, quartz kitchen countertops won’t need resealing or polishing.

Price vs value

As mentioned, the countertop material you choose will depend on your budget. Countertop materials vary in price and installation costs. For example, granite countertops are more expensive than laminate in terms of material and labor cost. Once you choose the material, decide which design, color, and grade you will need.

Hiring granite contractors can also add up to your total cost. Pre-fabricated countertops are available in many home improvement stores. If you are a DIY person, you can opt for these countertops so you can save cash from hiring professionals. But if you are not experienced with major home improvement projects, you should consider hiring a professional instead.

In addition, you should also consider your lead time. The duration of installation will depend on the material used and their availability. Usually, countertop contractors can finish the entire project in about two weeks.

Repair or replace?

There are instances wherein you may not need to replace your current countertop. It depends on the general condition of your countertop. For example, you may opt to repair the damaged part and retain the rest of the material. Not only can it save you extra money but also save time and effort from a tedious installation process.

If it’s only minor damage, you can simply repair the damaged part. But for major damages, you should consider replacing the entire thing. Here are some tips in choosing the right countertop material:

  • Measure your countertop area prior to shopping for a new one. This will help in estimating material costs.
  • Decide on what countertop material you will buy and you think will suit your needs.
  • Consider maintenance requirements when choosing a countertop material.
  • Use the right tools when repairing a countertop. Better yet, hire experienced personnel to do the job.

Choose the best countertop contractors near you

Countertop replacement is a major home project. For your kitchen or bathroom renovation needs, you should contact the best installer of kitchen countertops in Durham.

Spectacular Custom Kitchen Island Ideas

fabricated granite countertops

Kitchen island is one of the most important things to consider when renovating the kitchen. It plays both functional and aesthetic role. The kitchen island top creates the final look and feel of the kitchen. Your kitchen renovation will not be complete without replacing the old kitchen island from the new one.

Significance of kitchen island

The kitchen island is the most important feature of the kitchen. It is a usual gathering spot for breakfast when everyone has to rush to their own busy days. It also provides plenty of functionality to a kitchen by adding workspace and storage. Taking its central position in the kitchen into consideration, it is worth investing time and money to have the best kitchen island.

Choosing the right kitchen island

The very first thing that you should consider while selecting your kitchen island is size. In order to install the right-sized kitchen island, you need to keep the size of your kitchen in mind. The size of kitchen island should be directly proportional to the size of kitchen. If you have a big kitchen, you are free to play with various designs and sizes. For smaller kitchens, the kitchen island needs to be compact.  When selecting the size of the kitchen island, consider how the functionality of your kitchen will be affected by it.

The secret to getting the right size is planning. Discuss with your kitchen contractor and look for a perfectly sized kitchen island.

The second thing you need to consider is storage. A kitchen island is an amazing way of adding more storage to your kitchen. There are plenty of ways of incorporating storage into your kitchen island from contemporary drawers to traditional cabinets to creative open shelving.

The last but important aspect of kitchen island planning is kitchen island countertop. It is very important to select the right countertop material to get the desired look and feel. There is plenty of kitchen island countertop material available on the market to choose from. You need to opt for material that not only looks good, but also capable of withstanding daily wear and tear. In order to choose the right countertop material, sit down with your kitchen countertop contractor and discuss the nitty-gritty of your project. A professional can recommend you the best countertop.