Tag Archives: installing marble countertops

Things You Should Know About Marble Countertops

Are you looking to install marble countertops in your home? There are plenty of things you should know about them. These things include:

Marble patinates

Marble will develop a patina over time. The term ‘patina’ alone may send some people scurrying for the hills. However, many experts advise that patina should be embraced rather than feared.

Patina is a sophisticated way of saying used over time. If you go to Italy or France, or even a French restaurant, you will see marble on dining tables and worktops.

Those bits of stone have been around forever. And they remain lovely no matter how much they are used.

The stone’s beauty stems from its wear and tear. Each etch and trace of wear is a time capsule of all the hard work that has gone into your home.

And for many individuals, it is simply a part of life. We’re not all perfect and pristine all the time, so don’t expect your countertops to be either. Strive to embrace your patina. It will seem to be used, which is fine.

Marble etches

Etching is part of the patina. It’s an aspect of having marble surfaces that you’re either fine with or not. Whether marble—etching and all—is suited for you is determined by your expectations. This is especially true with marble in the kitchen.

You have to know what you’re getting into, and don’t assume that you are going to maintain the stone’s gorgeous, pristine, and polished perfection.

You’re going to spill something on it, and if you leave a glass out too long, something will happen. Then, you’ll learn a little bit about etching.

Marble etch marks form when an acidic liquid remains on the surface for an extended period of time, causing it to erode. Corroded surfaces have a dull or light appearance.

The impacted marble becomes rougher or less smooth than it was before the acidic spill.

People occasionally use various household cleaners that are generally effective for cleaning but are not suitable for marble surfaces.

The low pH of cleaning solutions instantly destroys the stone’s luster, leaving a damaged and drab surface.

As a result, you must exercise caution to maintain the marble surface’s overall appearance, sheen, and smoothness.

Some of the things you can do to prevent marble etching include:

Avoid using harsh cleaning products: It is best to avoid exposing the marble surface to any strong chemicals that could damage it. Even for cleaning, avoid using chlorine and acidic substances because they can alter the stone’s luster.

Hone the surface: A sharpened region is less likely to be etched than a polished surface. The matte finish will reduce the visibility of any scratches or stains on the marble surface.

Use chopping boards: You should use chopping boards in the kitchen to prevent acidic food drips from damaging the marble surface.

Clean spills as soon as they happen: Spills are always inadvertent. To protect your surfaces, make it a habit to clear the spills as soon as they happen.

Wipe the surface clean with a wet towel right away. Remember that the longer the acid remains on the surface, the greater the possibility of etching, and you don’t want this, do you?

Marble stains

Marble is a highly porous stone that has earned a reputation as a magnet for stains, particularly from acidic substances.

Your marble countertop, on the other hand, is not like your best white top, which is likewise stain-resistant—it can endure much more.

If you’re worried about stains, you can seal your surface to protect it. To be on the safe side, have your kitchen marble sealed once a year or refinished as needed.

Marble in the bathroom, on the other hand, is significantly less likely to absorb food stains. As a result, it is far safer and requires less sealing.

You can seal the surfaces by yourself but for the best outcome, let a professional help you out.

For the best outcome, you should apply two coats of the sealer.

Do not be alarmed if any ugly defects remain after applying the first coat of stone sealer. The second coat will effectively cover these defects and other minor wear indications.

Before applying the second coat, the first coat must be totally dry. After the first coat has dried, apply the second coat using the same way. Give the second coating an extra 15 to 20 minutes to dry.

After the second application of sealant has cured completely, polish your marble surfaces to finish the process. Polishing and buffing marble stones removes excess sealant.

To keep your surfaces nice, clean them using a microfiber cloth or any other type of towel. After you’ve completed, leave your marble surfaces overnight and be ready for elegant looking surfaces the following day.

There’s a misconception that marble stains easily, but it doesn’t. Those who have marble in their kitchen can speak from personal experience. It takes time to stain the surfaces.

There is marble in the US.

For those who value the “Made in America” label, don’t dismiss marble just yet. There is a prevalent assumption that marble must be imported from abroad; however, this is not always the case.

Marble is mostly found in Italy, China, India, and Spain. These four countries quarry almost half of the world’s marble. Marble quarries are also common in Turkey, Greece, the United States, Belgium, France, and the United Kingdom.

The states with the most marble are Georgia, Alabama, Colorado, Montana, Tennessee, Texas, and Vermont.

If you love buying American products, you should insist on buying the ones produced in these states. Of course, the marble will be much cheaper as it will have lower transport costs. Also, since it won’t have import duty, it will most likely cost you less.

Parting shot

These are some of the things you should know about marble. You should note that marble is one of the best materials you can install in your home. Whether you are having a countertop replacement NC project or installing new units, ensure that you have a professional install the surfaces.

You also should take good care of the surfaces so that they not only look good, but also last for a long time.

Tips to Consider When upgrading Your Kitchen Countertops

Your Kitchen countertops can make or break your kitchen. Unfortunately, any well-used kitchen surface experiences regular wear and tear over time. 

If your countertops have seen better days and you feel trapped in a kitchen design rut, you may need to upgrade them.

Countertops play an important role in the aesthetic and functionality of a kitchen. This means that a quick update instantly modernizes the kitchen’s look and changes how you cook and enjoy the space.

To get the most from your kitchen, here are some of the tips you should consider to upgrade it properly:

Aim for low-maintenance countertops.

To have an easy time keeping your countertops in tip-top shape, you should go for those that require minimal maintenance. 

While there are many countertops in the market you can go for, the best ones to consider are engineered stone worktops that are resistant to damage and stains. This makes them ideal for red wine and coffee aficionados, as well as home chefs who routinely cook with olive oil (which can wreak havoc on real stone).

Of course, you should ensure that the countertop is installed by a professional who knows what they are doing. 

As much as the countertops are tough and long-lasting, you should note that this doesn’t mean they are indestructible. To avoid scratches, avoid dumping heavy objects on the surfaces and utilize cutting boards.

You also should protect the countertops from heat damage. This calls for you to use trivets or hot pads under hot cookware to avoid damage.

When cleaning, clean your countertops with gentle, non-abrasive cleansers. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbers as they can cause finish damage, and you don’t want this, do you?

While most engineered stone worktops are non-porous and do not require sealing, if your manufacturer advises it, adhere to the sealing schedule.

If you don’t like the look of engineered stone countertops in your kitchen, you can always go with granite countertops.

The countertops are tough, but you must take more care of them to last for a long time. Besides protecting them from heat and abrasive cleaners, you will need to regularly seal them to prevent water and other liquids from easily seeping through and damaging them.

Consider mixing and matching the countertops.

Countertop mixing and matching can create a visually appealing and dynamic effect in your kitchen or other rooms. If this is the first time you are doing it, here are some pointers on how to mix and match countertops effectively:

If you’re using various patterns on different materials, make sure that the patterns complement one another rather than conflict. Patterns can be scaled similarly or contain complementing features.

You should select a secondary countertop material that contrasts in color or pattern with the dominant material. This is appropriate for specific locations such as an island, a baking station, or a wet bar.

If you choose a statement-making or one-of-a-kind material for the secondary countertop, pair it with a more subdued and neutral material for the prominent countertop. This keeps the space from becoming too crowded.

While mixing materials, it is critical to maintain some amount of consistency. This could be done through the space’s color palette, design style, or overall attitude.

When mixing the countertops, consider including design components that provide cohesiveness between the various materials. These include cabinet hardware, lighting fixtures, and decorative embellishments.

You should always consult a kitchen or interior designer if you need help mixing and matching the countertops efficiently.

Consider the countertop trends.

Trends come and go, so never clutter your kitchen with design decisions that will age poorly. While this is the case, several contemporary countertop trends will last.

A great example is when the countertop material matches the backsplash material. When properly installed, the countertop creates an immaculate European style appealing to many people.

If you have the space, a waterfall-edge kitchen island is a great option to go with. Such an island is full of drama and instantly pulls your eye into the space.

You should also consider the thickness of the countertop that you are purchasing and go for smaller styles. A thinner countertop is typically less expensive and easier to install.

While keeping up with countertop trends is vital, keep in mind that your personal preferences and the overall style of your kitchen should drive your decision.

As mentioned above, trends come and go, but a countertop that complements your lifestyle and aesthetic choices will last.

If you aren’t sure about the best countertop design or trend to go with, consult a professional, and they will assist you in making informed decisions that are consistent with your vision and the functionality of your kitchen.

Go green

As time passes, more homeowners are emphasizing eco-friendly materials with lower carbon footprints. If you feel that you should follow this trend, you are in luck, as there are numerous options available for you to choose from. The common ones are:

Bamboo countertops: Bamboo countertops are made from a rapidly growing renewable resource. They have a distinct appearance and can last as long as hardwood. When purchasing, look for bamboo countertops verified for sustainable sourcing by groups such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Recycled glass: Recycled glass countertops blend broken glass with a binder to create a vibrant, unique surface. They are eco-friendly because they reuse materials that would otherwise wind up in landfills.

Recycled paper: Paper-based countertops are made from recycled paper and resin to form a solid surface. They are lightweight, long-lasting, and available in various colors and patterns. These counters are frequently sealed with low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) coatings for further sustainability.

Eco-friendly concrete: Some concrete countertops are created from environmentally friendly resources such as recycled aggregates or fly ash, a byproduct of coal combustion. These countertops are long-lasting, and you can personalize them in color and pattern.

Engineered quartz: While not fully natural, engineered quartz countertops Durham frequently contain recycled components, giving them a more environmentally friendly option to real stone.

When considering eco-friendly countertop options, consider the source of the material, manufacturing procedures, transportation distance, and end-of-life disposal.

In addition, seek certifications from reputable organizations that verify the material’s long-term viability. Ensure the countertop matches your values, budget, and general style choices.

Countertop Colors Options and What They Mean

When you are looking to install countertops, besides considering the layout of the cabinets, the other important thing you should consider is the color of the kitchen countertops, as they come in handy in determining the look and feel of the kitchen.

Are you wondering which is the best color that you should go with for your countertops? Well, here are what the different colors mean and the ideal place to use them.

White

White countertops, whether laminate, composite or a very light natural stone like marble, are popular since they will brighten any kitchen.

Because your work surface takes up a lot of area in the kitchen, it’s usually a good idea to use a light reflective material.

White and light natural stone counters reflect light and offer a sense of space in small kitchens, making them the ideal choice for a small house.

White countertops are popular for various reasons, including their ability to increase the sense of light and space in a compact kitchen.

When using white kitchen countertops, you should note that they tend to get dirty easily, so you should always be ready to clean them to keep your kitchen looking clean.

When installing them, it’s always wise to go with a shiny finish that is easy to clean.

Dark countertops

Dark countertops are the perfect choice for a sophisticated and dramatic effect.

Dark countertops provide a touch of subtle luxury and are considerably more versatile. For example, you can easily pair them with grey finishes, natural wood, and white cabinets to create a sophisticated monochromatic design.

If you think that dark counters are your thing, you should note that they show dirt and streaks more easily than lighter hues, so you need to clean them regularly.

When cleaning, avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. For a great experience, always use a gentle, non-abrasive cleaning product.

Lighting may significantly impact how black countertops appear in your kitchen, so ensure enough illumination to keep the space from looking too dark and cramped.

Light tones with texture

Light counters with a delicate grain or texture, such as natural stone, porcelain, or quartz, are becoming more popular. While pure white worktops keep interiors bright, grey, beige, or off-white designs, and veined kitchen counters add depth and intrigue.

If you want to give your counters a unique look, you should consider white worktops with subtle marble-like veins that provide interest or larger veins that transform the worktop into a work of art.

The veins can be different colors, notably deep reds, browns, and gold.

Mix light and dark countertops.

Why not combine two designs if you can’t settle on a kitchen countertop color? For a great look, choose complementary colors. For example, you should combine light gray with dark gray or white with black to give a sophisticated look.

You also should pair light countertops with dark cabinets and walls to create balance and contrast. You can also pair dark countertops with light cabinets and walls to generate contrast. By doing this, you have a visually pleasing space.

Remember to incorporate an accent color that helps you achieve a unified design as you do the pairing. This could be the color of a backsplash or decorative items.

When mixing the colors, you can easily be carried away and go with many colors, but you shouldn’tshouldn’t do this as you will most likely end up with an ugly kitchen.

For an elegant kitchen, it’s crucial not to go overboard when mixing the counter colors. Always keep the rest of the area modest and let the countertops take center stage.

Wood

You can’t go wrong with earthy colors or the honeyed tones of a wood countertop, as they add warmth to the kitchen.

While wood requires more maintenance than other materials, each piece is unique and appears to have a personality, which always makes a room feel special and welcoming.

When choosing wooden countertops, selecting a wood that is sturdy and resistant to moisture and stains is critical. Maple, oak, cherry, and walnut are the best choices.

The finish of the wood you go with will affect how the countertop looks and how long it lasts, so be cautious of the finish you choose.

Some of your finish options include: sealed, oiled, and unfinished. For a great experience, go with sealed or oiled finishes, as they give a protective coating that can assist in preventing stains and moisture damage.

As much as wood is an excellent countertop material, you should note that it’s prone to water damage, so make an effort to clean spills as soon as they happen. When wiping them, do it using a moist cloth?

As much as you want your countertops clean, avoid using harsh chemicals that can damage the wood.

Grey concrete

Grey is a classic and versatile color for a countertop. Grey polished concrete worktops are an excellent choice if seeking an industrial look.

When installing grey countertops, consider adding pops of color to the space with accessories like rugs, curtains, and decorative items. This is because grey tends to be neutral, which can be unpleasant for some people, especially those that love having some colors in their kitchen.

To prevent discoloration and moisture damage, remember to seal your concrete countertops. When choosing the sealant, use a high-quality sealer exclusively for concrete countertops.

Parting shot

These are some of the countertop color options that you can choose from. At this moment, you must be asking which is the best color to go for. Well, there is no right or wrong color—it all depends on your taste and preferences.

Whether you want white granite or marble countertops Raleigh, it’s up to you. You only need to ensure that the countertops match your property’s theme and lifestyle. You want to spend your money on countertops that will give you the service you want and appeal to you for years.