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What To Put On Kitchen Counters To Decorate?

Whether you have installed granite kitchen countertops or any other countertop material, you will agree that the countertops don’t reflect your personality, and they can be boring to look at.

Luckily, you can place several items on the countertops to give them your personal touch, express your taste, and improve their look.

Wondering what to put on kitchen counters to decorate? Here are some of the best ones:

Fresh fruits

Since fruits don’t need refrigeration and you can leave them at room temperature, you can definitely use them to decorate your counters. All you need to do is place the fruits in a beautiful bowl and place them strategically on your countertops.

To get the most from the fruits, go for fruits with bright colors such as bright yellow, green, or orange. Some of the excellent fruits to use for decoration include: lemon, lime, orange, and apples.

Fruits dry out with time so remember to replace them with fresh ones every few days.

Cookbooks

Cookbooks are an excellent way to polish your cooking skills and improve the look of the countertops. To decorate your counters, stack a couple of hardboard cookbooks on your counters. You can also lay them flat, vertically, or horizontally, depending on the look you want to achieve and the style of your countertops.

To amp up your presentation, display books with a bit of color and keep them color-coordinated with the rest of the kitchen theme.

You can use any cookbooks, but it’s best you use books of your favorite cuisines. For example, if you love Asian Cuisine, use books with an oriental touch.

Plants

Plants are easy to carry, and they give life to your kitchen. You can use a single plant if you have a small kitchen or several plants if your kitchen is large.

The beauty is there are many types of plants you can choose from, and you can display them in different ways. For example, you can display them in a stylish pot or planter.

As you choose the plants, choose low-maintenance plants, as they will survive even if you aren’t in the house for days or don’t expose them to sunlight.

If you aren’t sure about the right plants to go for, get the input of a professional.

Cutting boards

Many homeowners use cutting boards as places to chop their vegetables and meat, but did you know that you can also use them as decoration surfaces?

To decorate your countertops using the boards, you should collect a few boards of different shapes and types and stack them together on your counter. If you don’t like the look, lean them against your kitchen’s backsplash to transform the look of your kitchen.

To make the boards even more exciting, mix boards are made from different materials such as marble and wood as they will create a significant visual contrast with the rest of the kitchen surface.

The boards also come in handy at improving the kitchen texture and adding a warm touch to the countertops.

You should be cautious about the type of boards you go for as some might make your kitchen look tacky, and you don’t want this, do you? So, if you aren’t sure about the boards you should go for, get the input of a professional.

Fresh flowers

A colorful bouquet of fresh flowers can transform boring basic countertops into beautiful surfaces you can’t get your eyes from. The beauty of fresh flowers is they are soft and give your surfaces a subtle touch.

To decorate your surfaces, put the flowers in a vase and place them in strategic areas of the kitchen counters.

To make your counters even more interesting, place several flower bouquets in different areas of the kitchen, then switch them up every week to give your counters a brand new look. If you have the budget, granite contractors NC recommend that you get different vases and switch them regularly.

You should note that flowers tend to wither with time, so to prevent your kitchen from looking dead, get fresh flowers at least once every two to three days.

Does Black Granite Need To Be Sealed?

On a casual look, black granite countertops appear tough and different from the other granite stones. And due to this, you will hear many homeowners asking, does black granite need to be sealed?

The truth is other than the color, there is nothing unique about black granite counters, so you will need to seal them like any other granite counters.

How does the granite sealant work?

Also known as an impregnator, the granite sealant is made of a resin dissolved in water or petroleum-based solvent. When you apply it on the porous granite surface, it creates a film that gets to the inner layers of the stone and fills the pores, and when the solvent or water evaporates from the mixture, the resin hardens, creating a tough barrier that liquids, dirt, bacteria and other materials can’t easily pass through.

Upon properly sealing the countertops, you keep the spills on the surface, which gives you time to clean the surface before the liquids can seep into the stone and stain it.

Although the granite sealant creates an effective barrier, it’s not foolproof. This means that if you leave liquids on the countertops long enough, they will seep through the resin barrier and stain your expensive countertops. To prevent this from happening, make it a habit to wipe off the spills as soon as they happen.

How often should you seal the countertops?

For maximum protection, seal the surfaces at the time of installation, then every six months to one year thereafter. Sometimes you may seal the surfaces more frequently if you use the counters more frequently.

You should note that even with frequent sealing, you shouldn’t let the liquid spills stay on the countertops in the event of a spillage. Instead, move with haste and get rid of them immediately before they start seeping into the deeper layers.

Besides getting rid of spills, also make it a habit to clean granite countertops regularly. And you don’t have to be fancy about it. A simple washcloth or sponge and a gentle soap and water will get it done.

After cleaning the surfaces, dry them thoroughly with a clean, dry towel. Regardless of how clean you want the countertops to be, don’t use harsh abrasives or acidic solutions as they will dull and scratch the surfaces instead.

It’s common for bacteria to adhere to the countertop pores. To prevent the bacteria from getting to your food, make it a habit to disinfect the surfaces at least once a week.

There are plenty of granite disinfectants in the market you can use, so avoid using bleach and other chemicals to disinfect the countertops. If you have to use bleach, dilute it enough, then rinse it thoroughly after application.

Even with the best care, it’s common for stains to happen. When they come about, remove them using a baking soda and water paste and gently rub it into the stain using a soft cloth. For stubborn stains, you may have to repeat the process a few times.

Who should apply the sealant?

Although you can apply the sealant by yourself and protect your countertops, avoid doing the work, especially if you have never done it before. Instead, let a professional help you out.

An experienced contractor will apply the sealant evenly, so it covers the entire surface from all sides. The contractor will also recommend the best sealant for the work.

Like other products in the market, there are many types of sealants you can go for. For the sealer to protect your countertops for a long time, you need to ensure its high quality and doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that can cause irritation or emit strong odors.

Avoid any sealer containing harsh chemicals that might damage the countertops. An ideal sealant should be high quality and gentle enough, so you don’t have to worry that the granite contractors NC you hired will get hurt when applying it.

A good quality sealer will also provide you with the liquid, dirt, and bacteria protection you are looking for. The sealer also won’t give off an offensive smell after application making your house uncomfortable to live in.

What To And What Not To Put On Your Kitchen Countertops

kitchen countertops

Did you know not everything is ideal to be placed on your kitchen countertops? In this article, we are going to look at the things you can place on the countertops and those you can’t. Read on to know more:

What to place on the counters

Some of the things you can place on the counters:

Coffee maker: If you make coffee every day, there is no better place to place your coffee maker than on your kitchen counter. To give your counters a great look, set up a coffee zone. This calls for you to gather everything you use to make coffee with and store it above and below the counter where your coffee maker sits.

Some of the things you should include with the coffee maker include mugs, coffee filters, coffee, and to-go cups.

Mixer: Only a few drawers and cabinets can store large appliances such as a mixer, and the large size and weight of the appliance will damage the cabinets. One of the best places to put the mixer is on the counter.

Tools: You should keep the crock right next to the stove together with spoons, tongs, ladles, spatulas, and other kitchen equipment. Having these items at your disposal makes it easy to reach them when the need arises.

Canisters: Large or small canisters are pieces you store on the counters for decoration or to contain small items. You use them to contain grab and go snacks, napkins, and other small odds and ends that will keep the counters from getting cluttered.

Dish rack: A dish rack is a must-have whether you have a dishwasher or not.

Salt and pepper shaker: Since you are going to be using these all the time, it makes sense to have them on the counters all the time.

Fruit basket: You are rarely going to refrigerate most of the fruits and vegetables—you are most likely going to eat them. To have an easy time reaching out to them, isn’t it wise to have a fruit basket on the counters?

Cutting board: Who doesn’t love large cutting boards on their counters? Unfortunately, most of us don’t have enough space for them, but if you love chopping, you should highly consider having them on your counters. This way you don’t cut directly on the counters and end up damaging them.

What not to place on the counters

Just as there are some items you can comfortably place on the counters, there are some you can’t. They include:

Papers: Papers on the counters gives them a cheap look, and you don’t want this, do you? If you aren’t using them, you should store them in a message center contraption. Preferably on the wall above the counter.

Appliances you rarely use: Are there appliances you rarely use? If you got them and you don’t use them every day, they are better off placed away from the counters as they will not only be giving your counters a cheap, dirty look, but they also will be putting a lot of unnecessary stress on the counters.

Collections: It’s normal to be attached to valuables. Whether its teacups, photographs, or figurines, it’s tempting to display them on the counters, but don’t do this. Instead of having them there, mount them on the wall.

Serving pieces: Only have these on your counters if you entertain daily. If you don’t, they will be taking a lot of space on the surfaces, and you are better off with them in the cabinet. You can also mount them on the wall as décor.

Other ways of taking care of your kitchen countertops

Other than being cautious of the items you place on the counters, there are plenty of other things you can do to prevent your countertops from getting damaged. Some of these things include:

Clean the countertops regularly: You must keep your countertops clean all the time. How do you do this? By cleaning them regularly. This way, you get rid of harmful materials on the surfaces. While cleaning the surfaces is vital, avoid using harsh materials as they will etch the surfaces and cause serious damage.

Cutting directly on the counters: One of the things you should have on the counters is a cutting board, and you should always use it when cutting meat and other materials. Whether you have marble or granite countertops Durham, always use a cutting board to protect them from damage.

How To Cut Granite Countertops By Hand

granite countertops

One of the prime reasons you may want to cut granite countertops by hand is if you have small granite blocks that were left behind by the contractor, and you would like to use them in other applications such as making stools or other surfaces.

There are plenty of tools you can use to do the cutting. The most common one is the wide-bladed chisel. When cutting the countertops, you need to consider plenty of factors that include:

Safety tips

You need to be safe when cutting the countertops. To do it:

Ensure that your hand is out of the way, so you don’t hurt yourself.
Roll up your sleeves and tie your hair back, so it doesn’t hurt you.
It’s wise you wear safety goggles and a dust mask. This keeps granite from getting into your eyes and silica dust from entering your lungs.
You should wear ear protection.

Set up the work area

The work area should be sturdy such that it can effectively hold the granite in place. To have an easy time cleaning once you are done, cut the granite outdoors. If cutting the granite indoors, lay drop cloths on the floor to cover the areas of interest. It’s also wise you have a shop-type vacuum in the area to help you with the cleaning.

Mark the area you want to cut.

Measure the desired length and width you want to cut on the granite then place three strips of painter’s tape on the area you are looking to cut. You should note that you don’t have to be precise when placing the tape as the purpose of the tape is to protect the surface and reduce the risk of chipping.

Before you begin cutting, double-check the measurements, and ensure they are correct. Remember to add an extra 1/6 of an inch for the chisel and saw blade width and mark the measurements with a pencil.

Once you are sure that the measurements are correct, position the granite section directly in front so that it’s visible. You should then put on your safety goggles and position the carbide-tipped point chisel directly in the top edge of the marked line.

The line should be at one of the edges of the granite section. Hold the grip of the chisel with the point resting against the granite, and using your other hand, gently tap the head with a mallet.

Chisel a groove

At one corner, chisel a groove at least ½ inch in depth. You should then chisel marks directly along the straight line you drew across the granite section. When making marks, ensure they are in a perfect line. Continue until you have chiseled at least six inches along the line from the end of the countertop.

Insert a blade into the groove

After completing making grooves, place the chisel and mallet aside and insert the blade of your handsaw into the groove. Cut the granite with a sawing motion until you successfully cut the entire section.

To cut down on dust accumulation, wet the blade as desired, then continue cutting until you cut the entire line of granite.

Polish the countertop

If the cut end of the granite slab or countertop will be facing a wall or another object, you should polish it. To smoothen it, fit an angle grinder with a diamond grinding wheel, then smooth and shape the edges to your liking.

Tips when cutting granite with hand

To avoid injury, avoid wearing gloves, especially when using a saw. This is because groves will weaken your grip on the saw.

When cutting or polishing the countertop, ensure you use the right blade. As a rule of thumb, use blades designed to cut natural stone. In addition to the wrong blade putting you at the risk of getting hurt, you can also damage the saw or blade.

Parting shot

This is what you need to know when you are cutting a granite slab with your hands. The process is risky, so if you aren’t ready for it, hire granite contractors Raleigh to help you out. The good thing is that the contractors will come with specialized tools, so they will get the work done fast.

Thinking About Undertaking Countertop Replacement? 7 Valuable Tips You Should Consider

soild surface countertops

If you have had your countertops for a long time and don’t like the current look, the countertops have worn out, or you are looking to sell the house, it’s time to think about replacing them. For the countertop replacement process to proceed smoothly, you need to understand how to go about it. Here are 7 valuable tips you should follow:

Pay attention to the flooring and cabinets

The nature of the cabinets and floor will not only influence the color of countertops you should install, it also will determine the type of countertops you should go with. Different countertop materials have different weights, and by installing countertops that are too heavy, you will damage the floor or the cabinets.

If you had previously installed plastic laminate countertops and you want to change to stone countertops, pay close attention to the integrity of the floor and cabinets and ensure that it can carry the weight.

If your cabinets aren’t strong enough, you have two options: replace the cabinets or settle for lightweight countertop material.

Know your countertop options

If you installed your countertops over a decade ago, you should know there are plenty of countertop options you can go with. From manmade materials to natural stone, you have a whole array of materials to choose from.

You need to do your research and find the best material to go with. If you aren’t sure how to go about it, consult an expert contractor to help you out.

Change the backsplash

Many people replacing their countertops forget replacing the backsplash, which gives their kitchen a confused look. The backsplash is the kitchen wall material. When the new countertops don’t blend naturally with the backsplash, you give the impression you didn’t think through the kitchen design.

Just like kitchen countertops, backsplashes come in different designs. There are small ones that cover only the sink area, midsized backsplashes, and even large ones that span the entire wall. They also come in different colors and textures.

It doesn’t matter what your dream kitchen should look like, but for a cozy, rustic, and modern look, ensure that the backsplash matches the new countertop material. You can buy a new material that blends flawlessly with the backsplash or replace the backsplash to match the countertop.

Don’t neglect the old appliances

The large kitchen appliances such as the stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher are expensive. If you have the budget, you can replace them, but if they are still in good order, you don’t have to.

Instead, simply think about their color, and when buying the new countertops, buy countertops that are close to the color of the appliances. This way, the appliances don’t look out of place, so the kitchen has an elegant design.

Think about the lighting

What is the nature of the lighting in your kitchen? Under-cabinet lighting is excellent for dull surfaces, but it creates glare on the polished stone. If you have stone countertops, you may not even need to install under cabinet lighting—overhead lighting is enough.

A modern kitchen needs to be properly lit. To have an easy time doing it, consult a professional who will recommend the best lighting options to go with depending on the size of the kitchen, and installed countertops.

Take note of the sink and other plumbing appliances

Unless you have an under-mount sink, in most cases, when you install a new countertop material, you have to install a new sink. Even if you have an under-mount sink, you may have to change the faucet so that it matches the new countertops.

Work with an experienced countertop contractor

You are bound to make plenty of mistakes when you opt to go at it alone. To have an easy time and ensure you are making the right choices, have reputable granite contractors Durham or any other professionals by your side.

The contractors will help you choose the right material that your cabinets can carry. If the kitchen needs any design changes to match the current countertops, the professionals will also help you come up with the new designs.

The contractors will also help you scout for the new countertop materials that will give your kitchen a look you have always dreamt about.

5 Factors To Consider When Buying Marble Countertops

marble countertops

Marble countertops are affordable, durable, and unique. While this is the case, you can’t buy just any slab you come across—you need to take your time and find the perfect one for your surfaces. For you to do this, you need to consider several tips that include:

Variety

Marble comes in a wide range of varieties with different qualities. The most common varieties being:

Carrara: When people are talking about marble, this is the one they are talking about. Carrara is usually stark white or white with gray veining. Carrara marble is the most common type in the market and the least expensive.

This is the same variety that sculptures and buildings are made out of.

Calacatta: Due to its white coloring with gray veining, many people confuse it for Carrara. While there is white Calacatta, there are other varieties that have darker, thicker veining.

There are even gold varieties often bought by those looking to give their homes a luxurious look.

Emperador: It varies from white to gray to brown. Brown marble is accompanied by white or gray veining, which creates a beautiful contrast. Due to its elegant colors, Emperador marble looks extremely elegant in a room with gold or brass furniture.

Crema Marfil: Often found in a light-beige or yellow color, Crema Marfil is used in combination with darker stones. The stone has an irregular pattern and varying veining intensity that gives it a unique look that spices up any room.

For you to choose the right variety for your home, work with an experienced marble contractor who will not only help you in choosing the right slab, but also help you install it.

Cracks

Are there cracks on the countertops? Cracks are a sign that marble has been dropped or improperly handled. Many people confuse cracks with fissures. You should note that the two are quite different.

A fissure is naturally occurring in the stone, and it doesn’t change the plane of the marble surface.

When shopping for the stone, carefully inspect it and ensure that you don’t discard it, thinking it has cracks. When a marble slab has fissures, you can slide your nail across the fissure without it catching.

If you looking for a stone that will give you a more rustic look, there is no harm in buying a slab with fissures as they don’t change the integrity of the stone.

Origin

The other factor you should consider is where the stone is coming from. Due to the high demand for marble, some unscrupulous business people try to pass fake marble as genuine.

For example, they will take a white stone from china or any other part of the world and try to pass it as white marble from Calacatta. When making the purchase, always ask where the marble is from.

True Calacatta originates from mountain quarries in Carrara, Italy. So does Statuario.

The key to telling whether a slab is genuine or not is asking an expert to accompany you to the stores. The contractor will help you with the inspection and advise you on whether to buy the stone or not.

Color

Marble comes in a wide range of colors, including white, gold, red, green, neutral, gray, and black. The veining greatly determines the look of the slab. For a great look, choose a color shade that is similar to the walls and floor.

Your needs

Where are you looking to install the stone? Since it’s made from carbonate materials, it’s reactive to acids such as those found in soda, coffee, fruit juice, alcohol, and salad dressing.

Due to this, you should refrain from installing it in the kitchen. This is because if the stone comes into contact with acids, etching will result. The etching is a process that breaks down the polish, leaving a dull, lightly colored spot in the stone.

While sealing the countertops will protect the surfaces from stains, it doesn’t prevent etching. Marble also easily scratches, which makes it challenging to work with in the kitchen.

The best place to install marble is in the bathroom. Here it won’t be affected by serrated knives or salad dressings. Countertop replacement Durham contractors also recommend installing marble in tile flooring, vanities, and shower surrounds.

Why You Should Choose Granite Countertop for Your Outdoor Kitchen

Outdoor kitchen countertops give your family a place to enjoy and makes the valuation of your home to go up. Your family can enjoy the outdoors without the hassle of going back and forth for food. It’s important to ensure that the material you use for your outdoor countertop can withstand the weather change and still look good. Before you choose the material to use for your outdoor kitchen consult the granite countertop dealer on the best material for your outdoor countertop.

What Should You Consider When Selecting the Outdoor Countertop

Durability

The material you select should last long. The countertop material should be able to withstand the weather and the kind of kitchen work you expect to carry out.

Availability of a variety of colors

It’s important to ensure that the color you choose gives your home a fantastic look. The outdoor kitchen will make your home look more expensive. Choose the best color to bring out an amazing look

Ability to withstand weather change

Make sure that the countertop you choose can withstand the weather change.

Stain Resistant

The countertop you choose should be stain resistant.

Functionality

Before you choose the countertop make sure the countertop you select will work for your family. If you make most of the meals outdoor, then you need to choose a countertop that will withstand heat, stain, and exposure to weather elements.

Why you should choose granite for your outdoor countertop

While most of the countertops are ideal for an indoor kitchen, they may not work for an outdoor kitchen. The outdoor kitchen may require a more sturdy and durable countertop. It’s important to choose a countertop that will withstand the weather and still look good. Below are reasons why you should consider using granite countertop for your outdoor space.

Durability

Granite is a natural stone that is hard and durable. Your outdoor countertop material should be durable to ensure it last long. Granite countertops are hardy, and they will last a lifetime.

Variety of colors

Granite gives you the opportunity to choose a color that you can match with outdoor cabinets and other appliances. Granite is not only durable but also beautiful. There are different patterns that you can select to make your outdoor space unique.

Heat Resistant

Granite is not easily damaged by heat, and that makes it ideal for an outdoor countertop. It’s however essential to ensure that you take care of the countertop and don’t expose it to extreme heat.

Stain Resistant

When granite is sealed, it will resist stains, mildew, and mold which can result in hygienic issues. It’s important to wipe any spills immediately

Withstand Weather Elements

Granite can withstand weather elements without losing the shine. When not in use its best to have your countertop protected to ensure that it last longer.

Installation of the Outdoor Countertop

It’s imperative to ensure that an expert installs the outdoor granite countertop. If the installation is not done correctly, it could result in cracks. It’s best to have the granite contractor install the countertop to ensure proper installation.

How to Care for Outdoor Countertops

It’s important to care for your countertop to keep shiny and ensure it last long. Below are some tips on how to care for your granite countertop;

Clean the countertop after use. Use a mild detergent and water to wipe off any food particles and liquids. Don’t leave food and other particles on the countertop for long because that may stain the countertop. Avoid using harsh detergents to avoid damaging the countertop.

Polish the countertop often to keep looking shiny.

Seal the countertop. The granite countertop dealer will advise you how often you should seal the countertop. Failing to seal the countertop will expose your family to viruses that may cause diseases. Your outdoor countertop may need to be sealed more often than the indoor kitchen countertop.

Cover the countertop if you don’t intend to use for long. If you are traveling for a vacation, cover the countertop to protect it from weather elements

Granite countertop Durham is the best material to use for outdoor countertop. Granite will not only add value to your home but, also makes your outdoor kitchen space look more beautiful. It’s important to ensure that the installation is done by a professional granite installers Rockville for best results. Care for the countertop to ensure that it last longer.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen countertops will make your upgrade more appealing and give your house a higher value. Whether it’s a granite, marble or quartz countertop it’s imperative to choose the right one. You need to ask the right questions and choose the right one. Do you want a modern look or a traditional look? What color of the countertop do you want? It’s important to determine the style you want to bring out. In this article, we look at mistakes you should avoid when choosing a kitchen countertop. Don’t rush through the choosing process and it’s best to consult the quartz-granite countertop dealer on how to choose a countertop.

What Not to Do When Selecting a Kitchen Countertop

Each countertop will add aesthetic value and perks the value of your home. You can have a stunning kitchen and a durable countertop material. It’s therefore important to ensure that you choose the right countertop for your home. Make sure you choose a countertop that suits your kitchen. Below mistakes, you should avoid when choosing a kitchen countertop.

Failure to Consider How You Use your Kitchen

If you run a busy restaurant you need a countertop that requires minimal maintenance. You need to consider how you use your kitchen and use the countertop that suits your kitchen and last long looking good. Granite countertops work well in a kitchen that is not too busy. Quartz countertops require minimal maintenance because they are nonporous and don’t require sealing. Consult the granite contractor and get help choosing the countertop that suits your kitchen.

Choosing the Wrong Thickness

Countertops will come in different thickness and its best to consult the experts at the granite company. Consider the function of the countertop and choose the right thickness. The granite countertop installers will advise you the thickness that works for your kitchen. Putting two countertops together to achieve thickness may not be ideal.

Choosing the Wrong Color

Darker colors of the countertop are least likely to get stained. If you have a busy kitchen opt for a darker kitchen that has fewer patterns. Choose a countertop that you can maintain and manage. a busy kitchen with a light colored kitchen countertop may stain and look old quickly

Seams in the Wrong Place

It’s important to inform the granite countertop installers the number of seams you want in your countertop. You don’t want seams that appear on the focal point of the countertop. Make sure that the seams in your granite kitchen countertop are not the focal point of your kitchen.

Mismatched Colors

Choose a countertop that matches or complements with the kitchen cabinets. If you are remodeling the kitchen, consider the color of the cabinets and make sure they don’t contrast. The marble countertop dealer will help you choose a countertop that doesn’t mismatch with your cabinets.

Top Mounting the Kitchen Sink

An under mount kitchen sink countertop will ensure your kitchen is clean and bacteria free. A top mounted sink may have bacteria around the edges making your kitchen unhygienic. With an under-sink mount, you can clean the countertop and sweep all the particles into the sink leaving your countertop sparkling clean.

Not having a budget

It’s important to have a budget to ensure you complete your countertop project. Make sure that you choose a countertop that is within your budget. You can visit the granite company and get a quotation for the various countertops. Choose the one that fits your budget.

Choosing the Wrong Material

It’s imperative that you choose the right countertop for your kitchen. Consider your style, how busy your kitchen is and the one that fits in your budget. Choose a countertop that will make your kitchen appealing and one that will last long.

Valuing appearance over durability

The color of your countertop is important, however, it’s important to choose a countertop that is durable. Choose a countertop that will not get stained easily.

It’s important to choose the right countertop for your kitchen. You can speak to the granite installers and get help in choosing the right countertop product NC material for your kitchen. Make sure you avoid the above mistakes and get the right countertop for your kitchen. Consult the granite contractor on how to choose the best countertop.

How Did Granite Become The Kitchen Counter Standard?

soild surface countertops

Granite countertops are in trend for a decade, but now it granite has become the standard for evaluating the quality of kitchen countertop. Every home improvement magazine recommends granite for kitchen countertop. Despite of being more expensive than other countertop material, granite successfully maintain its number one position as kitchen countertop. But why granite is so popular? Why homeowners are crazy for granite countertops? Why every remodeler uses granite countertop? Well, because granite has all the qualities that a kitchen countertop material should have. It is ultimate choice for kitchens as well as bathroom countertop.

Reasons behind popularity of granite countertops

Granite is a beautiful material. It has the natural stone look, which aggrandizes the beauty of any kitchen décor. It is suitable for traditional as well as contemporary kitchens. The beautiful stone goes with every type of kitchen furniture.

Granite countertops are available in variety of textures. Every granite slab is different from another. It is not possible to find granite slabs that match with other.

Granite countertop can remain beautiful for years. You just need to pay attention over granite sealing. Once sealing is done, your countertop will retain its original sheen and shine. The sealed surface will be as good as new.

Granite countertops are not prone to scratches. You can easily use knifes and spoons on the granite. This surface does not get wear off. Even if your granite countertop develops scratches, you can opt for sealing to get rid of them.

First, granite surface does not get stained easily. And second, granite countertops are really very easy to clean. You can clean the surface with just wet cloth. The spills won’t get glued up on the granite.

Granite has amazing heat resistant qualities. You can put hot baking utensils, pans and pots on the granite countertop without worrying about the consequences. This is one of the primary reasons why granite countertop is a popular choice for kitchen countertop.

Granite countertops are quite expensive. However, the price of granite countertop varies from contractor to contractor. You need to find the right granite countertop contractor to purchase the countertop at the best price. It is better to look for the contractor who profile transportation and installation services as well.

Tips for Buying the Best Granite Countertops

Granite is a natural stone that is not only beautiful, but durable also. This stone can be an amazing choice for kitchen and bathroom countertops. There are many contractors and companies selling fabricated granite countertops. This countertop is literally available in plenty of colors, textures, designs, cuts and qualities. In order to make the right granite countertop purchase, multiple considerations should be made before actually making the commitment.

Purchasing granite countertops

The quality of granite material varies and hence the cost. You can find luxury granite as well as affordable granite countertops in the market. The beauty of quality granite will obviously lure you towards it, but you need to be careful while selecting the apt granite surface for your kitchen or bathroom.

Tips for purchasing granite countertops

Visit granite showroom and explore the varieties in the granite countertops. You will find endless patterns in granite. It is not possible to understand the granite variations simply by browsing the catalogs. Collect the samples of various granites from different showrooms and compare them. Contrast the samples against size, color and decoration of your room.
Invest in the thick granite surface. The thicker the granite, the more durable it will be. While purchasing the granite, look for sample that is at least 1 inch thicker. The thin countertops are fragile. They can be easily damaged by load and stress.
Check the countertop for hairline cracks and pits. They increase the natural beauty of the countertop, but can also make it more fragile. Ask your granite contractor Raleigh nc or seller to explain about the imperfections, and if they can cause harm. Granite countertops are quite expensive make sure to invest your hard-earned money on the right piece.
Ask for customized edge to fit with your cabinet. Not all contractors offer customization services, but those that do can give you a countertop that is more beautiful and fits aptly in your kitchen or bathroom. If it is okay for you, then bevel edges are trending these days.
Invest in seamless granite countertops. These are quite expensive, but they look better than the non-seam ones. They even last longer.