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Reasons Why Granite is still the Best Countertop Material

marble countertop

There are many countertop materials you can choose from, but granite countertops  Raleigh are still the king. The unique appearance and structure of granites have made it a formidable material when it comes to countertops. A remodelling can be overwhelming as you try to figure which material to use for your kitchen countertop. In this article, we tell why granite is the best material to use for your kitchen countertop.

Reasons Why Granite is still the Best Countertop Material.

  • Granite is hard and Easy to maintain

Granite is a hard-natural stone and that makes it long lasting and easy to maintain. Granite can withstand hot pans and scratches. To clean your countertop, use a mild detergent and warm water. Granite is long lasting and once sealed it’s not vulnerable to bacteria.

  • Affordable and a long-term investment

Granite is affordable as compared to other materials. If you are on a low budget, consider using granites. Visit the granite company and get a quotation on how much you will need for your granite installation. Granite is not only affordable but will last longer than most countertops. Your kitchen countertop endures a lot of cutting and cooking and you need a countertop that will last long. Granite is the ideal countertop investment for your kitchen.

  • Perks up the Value of Your Home

Granite is one the most popular countertops and it’s one of the features that buyers look out for when looking to buy a house. A granite countertop conveys luxury and adds beauty to your house. If you invest in a granite during a house remodelling, you can be sure that you will get a 100% return on your investment. Although buyers consider other factors a granite countertop will put your house at the top of the selling board.

  • Style and Design

With granite, no two pieces are the same. Each slab comes its own colour, variation, appeal, and charm. Granite countertop comes with a variety of colours from vibrant shades of blue to yellow to black, grey and white. Granite countertops give you the option to choose from a variety of colours to match with your kitchen cabinets, and flooring. Granite will give your house a classy look and if you like a dramatic look they are readily available and if you love a cool home, cool colours are available.

  • Granite is stain resistant

Granite is easy to maintain. You only need a mild detergent and a cotton piece of cloth to clean out any spills. Granite is a tough natural stone which resists stains, etching, and scorching. After sealing you can be sure that your countertop is protected from stains. After meals, you simply wipe any spills with a piece of cloth.

  • Unique

Granite is available in large slabs that are distinct. If you have large spaces, granite will allow you to reduce the number of seams as it’s available in large slabs. The stone has a classic look that you will not find in any other stones. You can be sure that you have a unique countertop that will not go out of style.

Tips on How to Take care of Your Granite Kitchen Countertop

  • Clean any spill immediately, it happens as that will prevent penetration and chances of staining
  • Clean your countertop with water and a mild detergent. Avoid using any harsh detergent.
  • Avoid spilling acidic substances on your countertop
  • Use a cutting board while cutting any food. While granite is scratch resistant its important that you take care of it.
  • Use trivets when placing hot pans on the countertop
  • Visit the granite company and get advice on how to take care of your countertop to ensure it lasts longer
  • Let the expert granite countertop installers do the installation of your countertop to ensure a classy outcome.
  • Make sure your granite is sealed after every two years, depending on how you use it.

Granite kitchen countertop is the most preferred countertop material for most people. Its natural, unique, durable and comes in a variety of colours and you can be sure that you will find one that suits your kitchen. Make sure your granite countertop is professionally installed by the granite countertop installers and that will give your kitchen style and perk up the value of your home.

 

 

 

Granite VS Marble; Which one Suits Your Home

best kitchen countertop

When building a new home or remodeling your kitchen you are faced with the decision on which countertop material to use. The kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity countertop material you choose should bring out the elegance and style. Granite and marble countertops are both very elegant materials that will keep their look for decades when properly take care of and maintained. Granite has been the countertop king for ages while marble is synonymous with high class and luxury. In this article, we look at the similarities and differences between the two countertop materials and where best to use each one of them.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Countertop Material

  • Use of the countertop

Before you choose the countertop to use, choose the one that suits your kitchen needs. If your kitchen is high traffic then you require a hard stone such as granite

  • Budget and cost

Talk to the granite company and get a quotation for each countertop material. Choose the one that suits your budget

  • Style

Marble is more classic and elegant as compared to granite which is more common. Granite, however, comes in different colors as compared to marble.

Making of Granite and Marble

Marble is a natural stone which is made from limestone which has been subjected to intense heat due to tectonic shifting of the earth’s crust

Granite is also a natural rock made from compressed quartz, feldspar, mica and other minerals. Granite is harder than marble.

Both the materials are porous and offer good quality countertop material.

Granite Vs Marble

The comparison will help you decide which countertop to use for your kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity countertop.

  • Appearance

Although both materials are made from the natural rock they are different in appearance. Granite has speckled colors that it gets from melded stones and comes from numerous shades and tones.

Marble has veining characteristics with a deep, rich feel and comes in fewer colors and variety. Marble is commonly available in black and white.

Granite is shiny and glossy as compared to marble which has a dull smoothness. Marble can be made to look like granite by applying a sealant.

  • Cost of the Countertop

The cost of marble vs granite varies according to the collar and appearance. Marble is, however, more expensive than granite. It may not be possible to get large chunks of marble due to its soft nature while you can get for granite as its sturdier.

  • Durability

Granite is hard and resists chipping and cracking when it’s well maintained. On the other hand, marble is softer and it’s more prone to scratches and cracks and therefore require more care.

Both the rocks are porous but marble is softer, making it easy to stain and damage as compared to granite. Marble is susceptible to heat and any acidic liquids and it’s therefore important that extra care is taken. Granite, however, is harder and can withstand heat to a certain level.

  • Use of the Countertop Material

Granite is harder and therefore more durable and can be used in kitchens with moderate traffic as a kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity countertop. Marble is appropriate in places with little traffic and can be used both in the kitchen and bathroom.

  • Maintenance

Both granite and marble are porous and require sealing so that they don’t absorb spills. You need to reseal marble countertops at least twice per year while you can seal your granite countertop once every two years. Marble will require more maintenance work as compared to granite.

  • Repair and Installation

In case of chips, the repaired chips are more visible in a marble than in granite due to its flecked pattern. Make sure that the installation of both granite and marble is done by the expert from the granite company to avoid any installation problems and breakage.

Marble countertops require more maintenance and care but if you are willing to trade that for the classic and elegant look then go for it. Granite, on the other hand, is common in most homes, but it’s harder and more durable. Granite countertop Durham will work well even for the outdoor kitchen island and it requires moderate care and maintenance. Before making your choice speak to the granite countertop installers and they will advise you on the best kitchen countertop and bathroom vanity countertop for your house.

The Most Common Kitchen Counter top Problems

kitchen counter

The kitchen countertop is one of most valuable features in your house. The countertop gives your kitchen the regal look and its therefore important that it’s in good shape. What happens when your countertop cracks, chips or fractures? In this article, we look at the various countertop problems you are likely to experience and how to deal with them. Don’t attempt to repair the kitchen countertop as the material is delicate instead invite the quartz or the granite countertop Durham, installer to have a look and advise.

Common Kitchen Countertop Problems

  • Cracks on countertop

Cracks on the edges and on the granite result from;

  • too much weight on the edges of the countertop.
  • Constant exposure to too much heat, the exposure weakens the granite leading to cracking
  • Imprecise installation and stress during transportation.

If the countertop is not installed with proper reinforcement that will lead to cracking. The granite contractor should ensure there is sufficient reinforcement for the countertop to avoid damage.

  • Raptured Countertop

A raptured countertop is a cause for concern for many as it will give your countertop a bad look and you may be forced to replace the whole countertop. Your countertop will rapture because of the following;

  • When the countertop is installed on a surface that is not even
  • Joints that are poorly crafted
  • If the glue used during installation is not given enough time to dry
  • Too much weight in certain areas

Damage Caused by Water

When water is left on the countertop for long that may result in damage on the countertop. Water can also cause white crusty build up in the countertop creating a stain. Make sure there is no water leaking from sinks and taps so that there is no damage to the cabinets and countertops. To remove the stain, use a soft brush and a gentle cleanser to remove the stubborn stains

  • Chemical Stains and Dull Countertops

Using harsh cleaners on your kitchen countertops such as marble leads to dullness and although it may not show at first the countertop will eventually become dull. When granite is exposed to harsh chemicals that will result in the shine and spark diminishing over time. Use cleaners that are mild and will not cause the countertop to lose its shine

  • Stains from Hot Dishes

Countertops can withstand heat but they can also get damaged with the hot pans leaving marks. The solution to remove the stains depends on the type of countertop material that is in your kitchen.

  • Scratches on the Countertops

Pushing knives and other sharp utensils around the kitchen will cause scratches on the countertops. When your granite countertop has a scratch, invite the granite installer to assess the issue and advice on the way forward.

How to Deal with Kitchen Countertop Problems

  • Care and Maintainance

Cleaning

Avoid cleaning the countertop with abrasive and harsh detergents as this will result in stains and dullness. Ask the granite countertop installers how best to clean your countertop and the detergent that is meant for each countertop or buy mild detergents that will not make the countertop dull. Choose cleaning materials with a neutral PH. Warm water and mild detergent will clean the countertop perfectly

Protect Your Countertop

To avoid stains and marks caused by hot pans, ensure that hot pans are not placed directly on the countertops.

Avoid throwing sharp objects on the countertop as that will cause scratches and while cutting foodstuff ensure you use cutting boards.

  • Hire a Professional for major Problems

Make sure your countertop installation is handled by an expert at the granite company to avoid problems that result from a poor installation process. Don’t attempt to solve major problems like a raptured countertop or a large crack on your countertop. Invite the granite countertop installers to have a look at the issue and they will advise the best way to deal with the problem at hand. The repair process may be complicated and delicate and its best to let the granite contractor handle the process.

The durability of your kitchen countertop largely depends on how well you maintain the countertop. Ask the granite countertop installers on how best to take care and maintain the countertop to ensure it looks good long after the installation is complete.

How to Choose a Bathroom Vanity Counter top

Cultured Marble Vanity Tops

The bathroom vanity countertop material you choose should bring out the elegance of your bathroom, act as the focal point and connecting point between the wood and the surface above. The countertop material you choose should be able to withstand soap and water and still be durable. Although bathroom tops will not undergo the same work as the kitchen countertops it’s important that you use the right material for your bathroom. The granite installer will be able to advise you on the best material based on your needs.

How to Choose the Bathroom Vanity Countertop Material

When choosing the material to use on your countertop consider the following;

  • Bathroom style

The look you want to bring out in your bathroom will determine the choice of countertop material you use. Before you decide whether its contemporary, classic, Victorian or the traditional look you want to achieve, research and look at the different styles and choose the one you want. The granite installers will give granite bathroom countertop ideas that you can implement to give your bathroom the natural artistic and classic look and if you choose to use wood then you have a more traditional look. The vanity countertop material you choose should give your bathroom the regal effect.

  • Child-Friendly

The countertop material you choose should not harbor bacteria making it friendly even for your children. Choose a material that is nonporous so that it doesn’t harbor bacteria and it’s easy to clean. Quartz countertop is nonporous and that makes them a perfect choice for the bathroom vanity countertop. Make sure the edge profile you choose is also safe for the children.

  • Bathroom Vanity Countertop Use

How are you going to use the vanity countertop? If your hair closet has heat styling tools then you may need to get a heat-resistant countertop. Get a countertop material that is not porous and not susceptible to stains if you are going to use the vanity countertop as a makeup place. If you choose granite countertops to ensure its sealed to keep out stains. The material you use should be able to withstand soap and any other stains without fading or losing the shine.

  • Countertop care and Maintenance

Quartz countertop is a low maintenance countertop, unlike granite which requires sealing often. If you don’t have the time to keep cleaning the countertop, then choose the low maintenance countertops. It’s however important to take care of the countertop you choose to avoid damage and to ensure durability.

  • Cost

How much have you budgeted for? The countertop material you choose should fit into your budget. The granite installer will take the measurements of your top and give you a quotation of the various materials you can use for the vanity countertop. Choose the material that fits into your budget.

Size of Bathroom

Huge bathrooms will require a bigger vanity countertop and that will determine the material you choose to use. If you have a large bathroom, the material you choose should bring out the elegance and also fit into your budget. Ensure that the vanity countertop you choose should fit into your room without making it look overcrowded.

Factors that Determine the Cost of Vanity Countertop

  • Material

The countertop material you use will determine the cost of the bathroom vanity countertop. Natural stone is more expensive and will, therefore, increase the overall cost. Visit the granite company and the granite installers will give you a quotation for the cost.

  • Labor cost

Once you have made up your mind on the material to use, you need to get a quote from the granite countertop installers on the various options and the cost. Ensure that all the costs are included in the quote. The labor for the various countertop products will differ because material like granite countertops requires sealing after installation. Ensure the quotation you get from the granite company is conclusive.

 

The material you choose should be able to withstand soap and resist heat. Choose the material that is within your budget and that will serve the purpose you intend. The countertop product you choose should bring the beauty and elegance of your bathroom. If you choose granite countertop Raleigh the installer will be able to advise on how to take care of the countertop.

How to Choose your Kitchen Counter top Edge Profile

kitchen countertop

One of the smallest but the extremely important detail of the kitchen countertop is the edge. Once you have made your choice between granite countertop Raleigh, marble countertop, and Silestone countertop there are other factors you should keep in mind. There are other details that play a role in the beauty and functionality of your kitchen countertop. The shape of the edge countertop will determine the functionality and safety while using the countertop. The small details will give you the unique kitchen you were hoping to achieve. There are many factors to consider when choosing the edge of your countertop and we look at the factors to consider when choosing the edge profile.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Countertop Edges Profile

  • Style

Your personal preference and style are the first criteria to use while selecting the edge profile of the kitchen countertop. The granite countertop installers will take you through the various edge profiles and you choose that which is visually attractive to you. Sample the edges and decide which profile will best suit your working space. It’s however important to consider the choice of the countertop you want to use as different edges work for different types of the countertop.

  • Daily Routine

Your daily routine may not be wholly related to the type of edge you choose. The wrong countertop edge could be a potential danger in your kitchen. Countertops with sharp edges could increase the hazard impact in your kitchen and if you have children running around sharp edges may not be suitable for your kitchen countertop. Stark edges could be uncomfortable when dining and relaxing. Consider the daily routine in your kitchen and choose the one that most suits your routine. When sampling the granite countertop, Silestone or marble make sure to feel the edges and choose one that suits your family.

  • The aesthetic of your Home

Before you go shopping for your countertop, understand the aesthetics of your home. consider whether your home is modern and decorative, the location of the home and blend the counter edges with the home design. Straight edges will look more elegant in modern houses while the same counters may look out of place in older houses. One of the most important kitchen details is the right edge for your countertop.

  • Maintenance

Complex countertop edges will have more places to clean as they have more places where dust and food can settle. Consider the amount of time it takes to clean each type of edge profile. Some edges will require more time to clean than others. Dupont edges will require more time to clean as compared to the simple edges which are easy to clean. If you have a busy lifestyle then let the granite countertop installers get you the simple edges. It’s important the granite company you choose to work with has the experts that will guide you on all the countertop edge profiles that you choose from depending on your lifestyle.

  • Countertop Material

After you have chosen the edges that work with your lifestyle, then its time to consider how the edges will work with your type of kitchen countertop material. Certain materials work well with certain edges and it may require you to choose the countertop material first. Marble countertop will mostly have the laminated ogee edges. The kind of countertop you choose may limit the edges you choose due to the mineral composition. Some minerals will not work well with the complicated edges. Your granite countertop installers will advise you on the edges to use on each countertop material

  • Cost of the edges

Simple edges will cost less to cut as compared to the more complex ones. The more detailed and intricate edges will be more expensive. Once you have sampled the edges you want to ask the granite countertop installers for a quotation and on the edge profile you want. Depending on your budget choose the edge that will fit in your budget.

Conclusion

Choose the edge that will give your kitchen the regal effect you need. If you are remodeling your kitchen so that you can put up the house on sale consider the trend of other competing properties. Ensure the granite countertop, or the marble countertop edge provides the security and functionality of your kitchen.

 

How to Choose the Most Suitable Granite Top for Your House

kitchen renovation

Granite countertop will give your kitchen ambiance and class. Proper installation of the granite countertops is imperative to provide the house with the much-deserved value. Granites are formed from granite rocks, and through machines, they are cut to different sizes. Granites come in different colors and sizes. The size of your granite depends on how your kitchen is structured.

How to Choose Granite Counter Top for Your Kitchen

Colour

Colors like pure white granite are rare to find, but they are timeless and will never lose their appeal value. Red granite kitchen tops are bold and have a lot of history behind it while green granite gives an earthy feeling.Depending on what outcome and message you want to deliver choose from a variety of colors. Given your kitchen an ultimate look and if you want to sell your property ensure to pick a color that the buyers will love. Also, choose the color depending on the use of granites, dark colors are less likely to get stained and therefore ideal for the kitchen.

Colors of your Other equipment and items

Choose a granite color that will complement the look of your house. Check the color of your cabinets and other accessories and choose a color that will compliment and not contrast. If your cabinets are bright, then you can choose a darker granite. You can also pair your granite with one of the cabinet colors. It’s important to check the cabinet and color combination from the dealer you are buying from to ensure you get the best color for your house.

 

Thickness

It’s imperative to have the right thickness of the granite depending on the purpose. It’s essential to ensure that the granite thickness will endure its purpose. If the granite is for commercial purposes, consider choosing a thicker one as compared to home use.

Avoid Seams

While buying the granite, one that has no seams is better than one with seams. Ensure that your granite has no seams especially at the focal points.

Size

Bright colors will work for small areas better than dark colors. Brightly colored granite make the kitchen feel huge.

How to Choose the Right Colors

Visit the workshop and ask for samples

Granite sellers will typically have a small cutting that you can take home and compare with cabinet color and wall colors.

Choose from online selection

If the workshop has an online store, visit their website and select the best granite color based on the above considerations

Tips to save you Money While Buying a Granite Kitchen Countertop

  • Measure the granite size you need to avoid wastage
  • Use less complicated edge treatments
  • Use a granite countertop installer to fix the granite to avoid damage
  • Some colors are cheaper than others, opt for a more inexpensive color that matches with your cabinetry.