Tag Archives: kitchen counters

Simple Ways to Keep Your Kitchen Countertops Clean

There are numerous benefits to having clean kitchen countertops. When these flat surfaces are clear and pristine, they enhance the overall attractiveness of the kitchen while also providing ample area for food preparation, cooking, baking, and cleaning.

Furthermore, having less clutter on your counters means having fewer things to manage and spending less time looking for what you need.

The reality is that kitchen worktops tend to gather unwanted home clutter, thus maintenance may appear difficult. However, there are simple suggestions that can help you clear your countertops and keep them in peak condition. These suggestions include:

Establish rules for maintaining clean counters.

  • Establishing and communicating a few rules will help everyone in your household understand what should and should not be on your kitchen counters. Here are some regulations that you can enforce.Return objects to their proper locations.
  • Always put soiled dishes directly into the dishwasher or sink.
  • Make sure to disinfect the counters every evening before going to bed.

Add storage solutions

You should keep your worktops clutter-free by adding more storage space around your kitchen. For example, to hang your knives, add magnetic strips on your backsplash.

Install a storage unit or wall-mounted racks to organize your cookbooks, stand mixer, seasonings, and cleaning supplies. Adding hooks and a pegboard allows you extra storage options.

Maximize the drawer and cabinet space

To keep your kitchen counters uncluttered, use your cupboards and drawers to store as many items as possible. Install hooks inside and outside your cabinets to optimize space for items such as measuring cups and cutting boards.

You can even place a paper towel rack underneath a cabinet to keep your paper towels off your counter.

Get rid of unnecessary items

Removing items you no longer need or want can surely make your counters look cleaner. To begin the decluttering process, remove anything that is nonfunctional or unimportant. Then, gradually minimize the amount of items until you are left with only the necessities.

One of the most common causes of clutter is the tendency to pack too much stuff into too little space. When you do it, it becomes harder to store, locate, and access items. As a result, you fear putting things away and find it more easy to leave them on the counter.

Typically, the kitchen is cluttered. You have cupboards, shelves, and drawers full with kitchen tools, gadgets, stuff you thought you needed, and goods you bought just for one usage.

If keeping your kitchen counters clear is a problem in your home, this is the most crucial thing you can do. Remove any items that you no longer use. And save objects that are used fewer than three times per year somewhere else.

Relocate anything that doesn’t belong

Kitchens are infamous for becoming storage rooms for a variety of odds and ends. Unintentionally, they become the storage location for a variety of items, including mail, children’s homework, purses, keys, and nearly everything in your rubbish drawer.

Find a new suitable home for each item then, adjust the culture in your home to allow them to remain there. Consider your kitchen to be a department store’s customer service area; goods may enter but rarely remain.

You can also apply this concept to products you already have in your kitchen, such as televisions, radios, phone books, and so on.

Keep appliances out of sight

If your counters are consistently messy, it’s likely that you keep a lot of daily-use goods there. Most people frequently keep these items on countertops for convenience’s sake; however, these objects spend significantly more time as clutter than as necessary tools for meal preparation.

For example, if you make toast every morning for breakfast, it will take around 3 minutes to toast the bread. After then, the toaster will remain idle for the next 23 hours and 57 minutes. You utilize it far less than you realize.

Rather than allowing these gadgets to take up counter space and cause distractions, locate them in an easily accessible spot. For example, you can keep the toaster, coffee machine, and teapot in a cupboard adjacent to the outlet.

Finish all unfinished tasks

When a counter is clean and neat, it motivates you to put things away. Cluttered counters invite more clutter. Unfinished tasks create a cluttered environment.

Granted, some projects take longer than others, but many culinary tasks (cleaning dishes, wiping counters, returning used objects, and so on) may be accomplished immediately before leaving the kitchen.

For the best results, complete a task in less than 2 minutes. Finishing duties will greatly improve your attitude the next time you go in.

Change the convenient fallacy

The myth of convenience is a major reason your kitchen worktops remain messy. Most people keep things in plain sight because they believe it makes their kitchen more functional. As a result, the counters overflow with baking supplies, knife racks, cutting boards, and coffee mugs.

And, while it may be more convenient to have those items immediately available when needed, many people rarely consider the numerous conveniences they sacrifice by storing them there.

Many move them each time they wipe the counters. They give up valuable prep space while they cook. When you enter the room, the items fight for your attention in a subtle way.

Have a designated home for all of your appliances

One of the most important tasks in organizing and maintaining a countertop clutter-free is to assign a fitting place to each object.

Set aside drawers for silverware and cookware; cupboards for plates, containers, and small appliances; and closets/shelves for food and larger, less-used items. After doing this, you’ll find it extremely easy to keep your surfaces in top shape.

Parting shot

The simplest way to keep your granite countertops Raleigh or any other countertop surfaces clutter-free, is to add more storage space around your kitchen. For example, to hang your knives, add magnetic strips on your backsplash.

Install a storage unit or wall-mounted racks to organize your cookbooks, stand mixer, seasonings, and cleaning supplies. Adding hooks and a pegboard allows you extra storage options.

If you are having a problem keeping your surfaces clean and organized, it’s always a good idea to hire a professional to help you with the planning.

What Is the Cheapest Way to Do Countertops?

If there is one aspect of the kitchen that bears the brunt of cooking, hanging, and other daily activities, it must be the countertops. Fortunately, there are affordable countertop surfaces that do not sacrifice durability or aesthetics, and there are plenty of options available.

When deciding on the best kitchen countertops for your needs, you should consider options that fit your budget, how you intend to utilize the area, and, of course, ones that complement the overall décor scheme of your home.

We’ve compiled a list of the best affordable countertop solutions, ideal for anyone looking to keep kitchen costs under control while also finding a durable and stylish solution.

Laminate countertops

Despite having a somewhat negative reputation in the past and frequently appearing on lists of materials to avoid for kitchen countertops, laminate countertops are now a fantastic choice for anyone on a budget who still wants a stylish and long-lasting surface, thanks to significant advancements in manufacturing technology.

While this is the case, it is vital to note that lamination is not unbreakable. This material is typically constructed from a furniture board or particle board with multiple layers of durable printed paper.

This means that laminate countertops are durable, water-resistant, and stain-resistant, however, they are not scratch-proof.

If you choose a laminate kitchen countertop, work to protect your work surfaces by putting trivets beneath hot pots and pans and cutting boards when making food.

Tile

Although tile isn’t considered a particularly conventional option for countertops, it is absolutely something to consider if you want to cut costs, and thankfully, the tiled countertop style is still very popular.

While this is the case, there are certain drawbacks to tile counters to consider, with grout lines being one of the most significant issues. The good thing is that there are workarounds for this.

While tile can definitely make your countertop look a bit less high-end, for a modest investment, you can flat tile your entire countertop with pieces that look just like marble or have a granite look. You should note that to pull off this look, you should get a full slab.

For grout, opt for resin-based, stain-resistant, and non-absorbing. The larger the tile, the fewer grout lines there will be, so aim for the largest tile possible.

Concrete

Although concrete is frequently seen as one of the more expensive countertop materials, it does not have to be prohibitively pricey. Concrete can be the most affordable option if you’re willing to spend a lot of time on it.

If you value your time, concrete is not the greatest option. Concrete involves extensive leveling, screeding, troweling, and sanding. The necessary sealing and frequent maintenance can mount up over time.

Concrete countertops, professionally installed, will cost roughly the same as butcher block, but if you do it yourself, you can save a lot of money.

While concrete is an excellent material for waterfall countertops, it has a few drawbacks. For one, it must be sealed regularly to endure stains from cooking liquids and water and react to acidic chemicals.

Pallet wood

This is an excellent and economical countertop alternative that you can easily do yourself. It will also give your kitchen character and rustic charm.

If you have the time and the energy, you can make pallet wood look like it just came out of the sawmill planer. It takes a lot of work, sanding, wood filler, stain, resins, and patience, but you can turn used pallets into a beautiful countertop that looks better than butcher block or many of the other wood grain options available.

Pallets are free if you can get them locally from shops that are disposing of them. The remainder is simply sealant and sandpaper. This way, you get to have good-looking countertops at a low price.

Butcher block

Butcher block countertops are inexpensive and add a great rustic look to a kitchen. However, before you make a commitment, you should consider whether they are sturdy.

Unlike wood plank countertops, butcher block is constructed by gluing together timber planks on their sides. They are also occasionally fashioned of end-grain wood parts, which creates the distinctive chequerboard impression. If you know how to care for butcher block countertops, they can survive for more than 20 years.

Butcher block will be one of the most economical materials for low-cost countertop alternatives. Other than laminate, butcher’s block is about as affordable as it gets.

Prices vary based on how fancy you want it to look or the type of wood it is made of. Maple is often the least expensive wood for butcher’s block countertops, but different hardwoods might cost significantly more.

You must research and find the block that costs less and gives you a great experience.

Solid surface countertops

Solid-surface countertops can be a seamless, low-maintenance, and cost-effective solution when you are operating on a tight budget. Made from materials such as acrylic and polyester (or a combination of the two), they offer a huge choice of colors and designs that rival those of more expensive materials like quartz or granite.

They are not only stain and scratch-resistant but also allow for integrated sinks and easy minor damage repair, making them an economical and practical alternative for any kitchen or bathroom remodel.

However, because they have a modest impact on a home’s resale value and require expert installation, they may not appeal to long-term investors as much as luxury materials like granite and quartz.

If this is who you are, you are better off going for a more premium material.

Parting shot

These are some of the cheaper countertop materials that you can choose from. Regardless of the cost of the materials, remember to take good care of them the same way you would more premium countertops, such as granite countertops Durham.

7 Ways to Create Extra Kitchen Counter Space

One of the biggest annoyances of a small kitchen is the lack of counter space. Even after clearing up your kitchen countertops and putting away all of your typical space-hogging suspects, you might not succeed. And contrary to popular belief, you can’t just make extra kitchen counter space.

Expanding your work surface area is relatively simple if you’re ready to use a little imagination. To help you out, here are some creative (but simple) ways to increase the amount of counter space in your kitchen:

Have multifunctional workspaces

Regardless of your kitchen size, it will contain at least two things: a sink and a cooker top. Both of these usually wind up being dead space when not in use. Now is the time to change that. Whether it’s an inset drying rack or a custom-fit cutting board that sits perfectly across the top, make those places work harder.

Displaying attractive pots and pans on the stovetop also provides additional storage space, which is helpful if you’re short on cupboard and drawer space.

Make use of drawers

Coffee jars, spice racks, knife blocks, and cutting boards are frequent culprits of counter clutter, but the good news is that all of these items fit perfectly in drawers. It only takes a little tweaking to make them suitable for their intended use.

While adjustable inserts and dividers are useful, tailored organizers are better if you want to make the most of your space.

You can customize these to meet your unique needs, providing convenient access to kitchen supplies. Choose deep drawers to manage pots and pans, innovative pull-out designs that reveal two drawers in one, unique internal organizers, knife blocks, and even intelligent charging drawers for all your digital needs.

When organizing kitchen drawers, make sure the most accessible ones contain products you use daily. That way, you’re less likely to leave them on the side.

Layer up

Shelf risers are often associated with freeing up space in kitchen cabinets and pantry shelves, but they are equally effective when used directly on the countertop—as long as you choose a nice design. They’re also movable, so you can rearrange them depending on how you want to use your counter space.

If you must store items on your countertop, try additional kitchen organizers like stackable bins and Lazy Susans. While they do not free up counter space underneath as risers do, they make the most of the available storage space.

Create groups of items.

Smaller items scattered around the countertop can create a cluttered appearance, resulting in a messier workspace that is also more difficult to clean. Elegant-lidded containers can store lesser-used items such as dry ingredients, herbs, vitamins, pencils, etc. Still, trays are a better option for products that require frequent access (think washing liquid, sponges, cooking oils, and seasonings).

You should place grouped items on trays rather than directly on the surface. That way, you can lift everything at once when you need to wipe the sides or shift things temporarily to free up counter space for cooking.

You should limit yourself to one or two clusters for every few feet of linear counter space. If you have numerous short runs, space them out so that each stretch only contains one item. Consider clustering three or four groups together if you have a longer stretch, say four to six feet of counter space.

Have another storage space.

One of the greatest strategies for keeping counters uncluttered is to focus on other storage areas, such as organizing kitchen cabinets, deep pantry shelves, or decluttering a small kitchen. If you do this strategically, everything will have its own place, and you won’t need to store anything on countertops.

If you’re fortunate enough to be in the early phases of designing an entirely new compact kitchen layout, you can make things a lot easier by incorporating a few ‘creative’ space-saving storage solutions or a pull-out counter if you have the space.

Don’t hesitate to collaborate with a joiner or designer. They can propose creative storage solutions for odd nooks and recesses. Using pocket doors in a compact kitchen is an excellent way to expand additional food prep and storage facilities, such as a pantry, without wasting valuable floor space.

Take full advantage of early planning by selecting as many built-in appliances as possible. Other options include purchasing a microwave-equipped oven or installing a hot water tap instead of a hefty kettle.

Have portable workspaces

Portable kitchen island ideas are perfect for making more room in small kitchens in terms of surface and storage. They’re also versatile; the top may be used as an extra countertop and a temporary breakfast bar, which is helpful if you have friends overnight (buy in a couple of foldable chairs or stools to pull out as needed).

You can also use the shelves underneath to store objects that generally end up on the countertop. Choose one with wheels so you can move it in and out, depending on whether you need more counter or floor space.

Hang some items on the wall.

Storing utensils upright is a sensible way to quickly and simply find what you need, which is why they are frequently kept in jars on the countertop near the stove.

While storing them in a drawer is a practical solution, using vacant wall space, such as a backsplash, is significantly more space-efficient and can also look rather elegant.

Consider using a wall rail with hooks. In addition to kitchenware, you can hang oven mitts, tea towels, cleaning brushes, and even little herb pots; just make sure they are far away from any open flame.

Parting shot

You can use these strategies to create extra space in your kitchen counters. Whether you have granite countertops NC or any other type of countertop, it’s your responsibility to work with experts who will not only hold your hand when building your kitchen but also guide you in making the right decision.

What Ruins Marble Countertops?

Marble is a one-of-a-kind natural stone surface that has been sought after for thousands of years due to its everlasting beauty. Every block of marble is unique, traditional, and incredibly beautiful.

Unless you have marble that is as large as the Taj Mahal in your home, keeping marble in excellent condition is surprisingly easy with a few simple rules.

To avoid tragedy and preserve the luster and sheen of your stone for the rest of its life, you should keep your marble countertops professionally sealed.

As you take care of your countertops, you should note that different materials can stain them. These materials include:

Red wine

A marble bar is an ideal setting for displaying a collection of spirits, mixing a festive cocktail, or pouring a glass of your favorite beverage. While this is the case, the deep color of red wine spilled on marble is undesirable since it can swiftly sink beneath the surface. You shouldn’t fear when this happens, as simple home solutions can remove or significantly reduce most stains.

To avoid these problems, always store wine bottles on a coaster or tray and use caution when opening them near your marble. Do not place corks directly on your tabletop; always clean up any spills or “rings” immediately.

If you see any discoloration caused by wine on your marble, make a poultice paste mixture to remove the color and contaminants. First, clean the area with distilled water. For light-colored marble, combine hydrogen peroxide and baking soda till the consistency of sour cream.

For dark marble, combine acetone and baking soda to a similar consistency. Soak the mixture in paper towels, then apply it to the stained area. Ideally, the poultice should be 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

Cover the paper towels with plastic wrap and tape down the edges to keep the moisture in. After 24 hours, remove the plastic wrap, but leave the paper towels over the stain until totally dry.

After removing the towels, rinse with distilled water and pat dry with a soft towel. Repeat up to five times on the stained area until the stain goes away.

Soap scum

Marble in a shower is beautiful and classic, but you should clean the buildup from daily shower use regularly and with the proper tools.

After each shower and bath, squeegee your marble to keep it looking new. This helps to avoid scaling and etching caused by evaporating water.

To remove shower residue, gather distilled water, a microfiber towel, a marble-specific cleaner (avoid heavy bathroom cleaners that target calcium, lime, and rust), and a squeegee.

You should spray the area with a marble cleaner and massage gently with a microfiber towel. Wipe the area with warm, distilled water, then dry with a towel.

To remove soap scum, use warm water and a mild pH-neutral detergent in a cleaning bucket—work in small parts, rubbing the solution into the marble with a soft, non-abrasive sponge. Rinse the area well with distilled water before properly drying it with a squeegee or cloth.

Sticky substances

Accidents can occur, particularly on floors and other work surfaces. Gum, grease, and adhesives can take some time to clean even with the proper instruments.

Thankfully, you can prevent spills by cleaning them up before they dry. You should remove your shoes before stepping on marble flooring. Avoid using glue and other adhesives on or near your marble surfaces.

You shouldn’t use metal utensils should not be used to remove gum, grease, or glue. Sharp edges can scrape marble despite its durability. Instead, delicately lift the material with a fingernail or a plastic putty knife, or use a moderate pH-neutral dish soap solution with warm distilled water.

To remove gum, put an ice cube in a plastic bag, rub it on the gum until it solidifies, and then use a wooden or plastic implement to scrape out the solidified material.

Try using a delicate cloth to apply a tiny bit of diluted mineral spirits or rubbing alcohol to harder materials. Before applying it to a big area, always do a spot test.

Smoke

Marble is a beautiful stone to surround a fireplace or fire pit, but it minimizes smoke buildup and stains.

To avoid smoke damage, ensure your fireplace is vented correctly, directing smoke up the chimney and not out into the room. Keep a soft towel ready to clean up any residue after each fire.

If stains accumulate, use a solution of warm water and a mild pH-neutral dish soap, followed by a rinse with distilled water. Dry with a microfiber cloth once you are done.

For harsher stains on lighter marble, use a poultice of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda to lift the color, as advised for red wine. Always spot-test a poultice solution before tackling a huge stain, and do not scrub.

Acidic foods

Acidic foods can cause harm to marble because of the calcium carbonate it contains. Citrus fruits, juices, wine, coffee, soft drinks, vinegar, and tomatoes are some of the most prevalent causes of marble etching and stains in the kitchen.

Preventive measures to protect your surfaces include keeping cutting boards and clean cloths on hand for food preparation. To avoid discoloration due to acidic foods, wipe up any spills quickly. If you’re eating on marble, put your beverages on coasters and use placemats.

When cleaning the surfaces, blot the stain quickly to eliminate any excess liquid. Warm, distilled water can cut through the acid, preventing additional damage from a spill.

If there is a stain, use the poultice paste procedure described in the guidelines for the red wine section above. If the spill has etched the surface, use an etch remover or marble cleaning product to restore its natural sheen.

Parting shot

These are some of the products that can stain and ruin your kitchen countertops NC. You should note that it’s your responsibility to keep your countertops in top shape. If you have an accident, move with haste and get rid of the materials within the shortest time possible.

What Is the Downside of Marble Countertops?

Marble has long been regarded as a beautiful material for kitchen counters. Its ageless elegance and distinctive veining make it a popular material among homeowners wishing to improve the aesthetics of their kitchens. However, as lovely as marble is, it has its own challenges and limitations that you should be aware of when making the purchase.

These challenges include:

They are porous and susceptible to stains

One of the most notable disadvantages of marble countertops is their porosity. Marble is a naturally occurring stone comprised mainly of calcium carbonate and is highly porous. This implies that marble countertops can easily absorb liquids and become damaged if spills are not cleaned immediately.

For example, red wine, coffee, citrus juices, and even water can soak into marble surfaces and leave lasting stains. While sealing marble can help minimize its porosity, no sealant can prevent stains.

To avoid damage, you must be meticulous about cleaning spills as soon as they occur. You should also be diligent about sealing your countertops at least once a year using a high-quality sealant.

They are soft and susceptible to scratches.

Marble is softer than other popular countertop materials like granite and quartz, making it more susceptible to scratches and etching. Everyday kitchen operations, such as cutting, chopping, and moving heavy pots, can create visible markings on marble counters. Accidental nicks and scratches can still occur while using a cutting board.

In addition, acidic chemicals such as lemon juice, vinegar, or tomato sauce can scratch marble surfaces. The etching shows dull patches or discoloration on the marble’s surface, which is most evident in polished surfaces.

If you’re looking for marble kitchen countertops and want to avoid scratches and etching, choose a honed finish over a polished one. A honed finish is matte and can help hide minor flaws.

To prevent scratches on the counters, invest in high-quality cutting boards. When cleaning marble, avoid using scouring cleansers or abrasive sponges, as they can damage the surfaces. You don’t want this, do you?

They are high maintenance.

Unlike quartz or granite, marble requires extensive maintenance to keep it at its best. Marble countertops should be sealed regularly, at least once or twice a year, to avoid stains and etching. This continual care can be time-consuming and increase the overall cost of having marble worktops.

In addition to sealing, marble countertops require daily maintenance to avoid deterioration. You must use non-abrasive, pH-neutral cleaners to clean marble, as strong or acidic cleaners can damage the surface.

If you’re considering marble kitchen countertops, you should consider the time and cost of frequent maintenance when budgeting for your kitchen renovation.

To have an easy time with the countertops, always remember that bleach, lemon-based cleansers, and vinegar can all etch the marble.

So, if you’re dealing with a tough stain, contact your manufacturer and see what they recommend. Some at-home remedies may eliminate it, but learn what you can’t use before proceeding.

A damp microfiber towel, dish soap, and hot water are enough in daily care. While all types of special marble cleaners are on the market, you don’t need them.

They are vulnerable to heat damage.

Marble is heat resistant to some extent; however, it is not entirely heatproof. Placing hot pots, pans, or baking sheets on marble surfaces can produce thermal shock, resulting in cracks and discoloration. Over time, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can damage the stone, reducing its overall resilience.

If you have marble counters, you must use trivets or heat-resistant mats to protect the surface from heat damage, adding another caution to daily kitchen use.

If you regularly use your kitchen and feel that marble is too vulnerable, try granite or quartz, which can sustain higher temperatures without harming it.

They might not be the best for high-traffic kitchens

Marble countertops may not be the best option for busy kitchens or families with young children. This is because marble countertops require special care due to their porosity, softness, and susceptibility to scratches and stains.

For families or individuals who cook frequently or use their kitchen as a lively gathering place, the risk of marble countertop damage may outweigh the visual value.

If you like the look of marble but need something more durable, quartz or granite are good options. These materials provide equal beauty while also being more durable.

Marble loses its color over time.

If you value preserving the original look of your countertops, you should know that marble requires constant care and may still show signs of aging despite your best efforts.

Marble is a natural material; exposure to sunlight, moisture, and daily wear can change its appearance over time. For instance, white marble may become yellowish if not correctly cared for. While some homeowners enjoy the natural patina that develops with age, others may find these changes undesirable.

There is no saying whether you will love or hate the new look. The right thing to do is to consult a professional and see whether you like the look of old marble. If you don’t, you should consider looking elsewhere.

They can get pricey

One of the priciest natural stone choices for kitchen countertops is marble. Of course, the type, color, and place of origin of marble affect its price, but premium marble slabs can be very expensive. The total cost may also increase due to the possible repairs and ongoing upkeep needed for marble surfaces.

Quartz countertops that resemble marble can be a preferable alternative if you are looking for an inexpensive countertop solution with comparable looks.

If you aren’t sure the countertops are right, consult a reliable expert to compare prices and identify a marble alternative that suits your spending limit.

Parting shot

Despite their obvious beauty, marble kitchen countertops Durham have a number of disadvantages that homeowners should be aware of. Because of their porosity, scratch-proneness, high maintenance costs, and other issues, marble countertops require a level of care that may not be appropriate for every home.

Be aware of these drawbacks and consult with a reliable professional to decide if marble countertops are the best option for your kitchen.

If marble’s classic beauty appeals to you, you can ensure your countertops will continue to look beautiful for many years by following the proper maintenance and care procedures.

Installing New Kitchen Countertops? 7 Things to Pay Attention To

If you are looking to install new kitchen countertops, there are a number of things you should pay attention to in order to install the units properly. These things include:

Your preferred look

Having an idea of the ultimate kitchen’s design is beneficial as it helps you select the best kitchen counters for your home. Consider the look you want to achieve before making your selection for new kitchen countertops.

You should remember that particular countertops may give your kitchen a more classic appearance, while others may provide your house with a more modern feel.

Should you have a preference for a modern kitchen, you can wind up selecting unusual countertop materials. The type of countertop material you select for your kitchen will depend on the overall look you want to achieve.

There is no right or wrong material to go for. It all depends on you.

Your lifestyle

Certain lifestyles are more suited for particular types of kitchen countertops than others. For example, a white granite countertop might not be the greatest choice for your kitchen if you have a busy household with lots of spills and accidents.

To tell whether a particular material is suitable for you, consider how your kitchen will be used, as certain materials for countertops are more porous or more likely to chip and crack.

This will help in determining the required level of durability for the countertop surface. Speak with an expert if you’re unsure which material would suit your lifestyle the best. Experts in countertops will know which material is ideal for your kitchen.

You should note that your lifestyle will determine how long the countertops last. This means that as much as you might love particular countertops, if your lifestyle doesn’t fit them, it will be pointless to install them as, after a few uses, they will break.

To be on the safe side, follow the instructions given by the countertop professional. Don’t go against their advice, as chances are that you will end up wasting your money.

Layout of your home

The kitchen should unite the entire house because it is the center. Having stated that you ought to think about the design and arrangement of your property and make an effort to unify the style throughout.

You should confirm that your open-concept home’s elements all function as a unit to provide a seamless flow throughout the area.

The style you decide on for your kitchen should be reflected throughout your house. The reason for this is that your home will look much better if the finishes and color schemes are similar.

Even if your house is not an open concept, having a connection between your kitchen and the rest of the house is still beneficial. When selecting the color scheme for your kitchen counters, try to stick to a basic palette.

Your budget

You must first establish a budget if you don’t already have one. You should note that you should do this before choosing your kitchen countertops.

If this is your first time installing the countertops, you should note that they can be costly, so be sure to have enough cash on hand. When determining the budget for your kitchen countertop, try to be reasonable.

Determine which materials would be most appropriate for your budget and consult a professional to select the ideal countertops for your house.

Try to choose premium materials for your kitchen countertop that will last a lifetime while staying within your budget.

You should note that your budget should not only include the cost of buying the countertops but also that of installing them. The last thing you want is to buy new countertops only to find that you don’t have money to install them.

Edging

Even while the edging you decide on for your finished countertop may appear insignificant, it has a significant impact on the look of the counters. The edge not only gives your projects the ideal final touch but also expresses your personal preferences.

You should work with your installation contractor and agree on the best edging style that will match the design of your home and reflect your style.

You should note that the contractor who installs the countertops might not be the ideal one to install the edging, so it’s always wise to find an edging professional who will expertly install it for you.

Backsplash

While the backsplash area in a kitchen is often overlooked, it may be a valuable space to upgrade your kitchen cabinets because it runs along the countertop.

You should choose a backsplash that complements the style of the house and your countertops. For example, selecting a backsplash made of glazed ceramic tiles will enhance the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal.

Chances are that there will be fat and other materials landing on the backslash, so ensure that it’s easy to clean. This calls for you to avoid any material that might be problematic to clean.

The backsplash is another place where you can get creative with color and style to make your kitchen pop if you’ve selected a more natural, subdued tone for your countertop. It would also be a relatively simple design feature to change up sometimes.

There is no right or wrong backsplash to go with. It all depends on your preferences and your desired look.

Maintenance

Many people will install countertops, but the last thing on their minds is how they will maintain them. This is wrong.

You should know that for you to keep the countertops in good shape, you need to maintain them. The countertops you choose should be based on your lifestyle. If you love cooking, you need countertops that will be easy to maintain, as getting high-maintenance surfaces will be an inconvenience.

If you aren’t sure about the counters to get, get the input of the professionals.

Remember to maintain the countertops of your choice correctly. This calls for you to seal your granite countertops Raleigh if you need to. You also should protect your surfaces from scratches by avoiding cutting directly on them.

Things to Do If You Hate the Color of Your Granite Countertops

Although granite countertops are attractive, long-lasting, and in style, you should know it’s normal to get bored of them. The good thing is that you can update them if you find them too busy, too dark, or simply don’t match your current design style.

To help you out, here are things you can do if you don’t like the current color of the countertops:

Paint the countertops

Consider using a granite countertop paint kit, available online and at home improvement stores, if you are content with how your kitchen is set up but would want a different look without having to pay more for something like a new Corian countertop.

Primer, paint, and epoxy are typically included in countertop resurfacing kits; some kits also include all the sanders, rollers, brushes, and other equipment you’ll need for the project.

Make sure that you adhere to the instructions included with your particular kit, however, most kits suggest taking actions akin to these:

First, use a roller to apply a coat of primer. After letting it dry, apply a second layer of primer.

Using a fresh roller brush, apply the stone coat. Use a smaller brush for difficult-to-reach and detail areas, such as the areas around sinks, fixtures, and edges.

You should use a rotary sander to smooth the stone coat after it has dried. A shop vacuum or filtration system helps get rid of dust.

You should then dust or vacuum the surface until it is clear of all dust and debris.

After applying a second coating of stone coat and allowing it to dry, resand.

As instructed, apply the sealant coat and let it dry. It’s crucial to give this last coat enough time to cure completely before handling or causing any disturbances, as doing so may result in smudges and imperfections that are difficult to fix.

After the sealant application has dried completely, remove the protective tape.

To ensure the countertop is polished, you should apply caulk to all edges, walls, sink lines, and other required locations.

Tile over the countertops

You can tile over a granite countertop that is perfectly level, square-edged, and devoid of embellishments, curves, or a waterfall edge. Your countertops must be level and sturdy so the tiles and grout do not fracture after installation.

Water-resistant, long-lasting, and food-safe porcelain, ceramic, or comparable tiles are what you should install.

To stop water, stains, and bacteria from growing, choose non-absorbent, food-safe, resin-based, and stain-repellent grout.

Unless you choose your tile, grout, and design choices wisely, tiling over existing granite counters might make your kitchen appear less attractive, so be cautious about how you go about it.

Tile is often thought of as a less attractive, cheaper countertop material. Nevertheless, it can refresh an outdated countertop and improve how your kitchen expresses your taste.

You can rough up and scratch your countertops with a power sander and high-grit sandpaper. For the thinnest mortar to adhere to them, they must possess a particular texture.

Alternatively, you can buy and cut a ¼-inch-thick cement or tile backer board to precisely fit over your counters and glue it to the granite surface if you don’t want to install tile directly on your worktops.

For the best outcome, work with experienced contractors who will not only correctly install the tiles but also advise you on the best ones.

Install laminate sheets on your countertops.

Consider covering your granite counters with laminate sheets if ready for a new look. Though laminate comes in various solid and decorative patterns, it is rarely as attractive as granite, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of making the switch.

Laminate is also far less durable than granite, so you must treat your countertops more carefully if you decide to switch.

You want the granite to appear dull, so use an orbital or belt sander to remove the top layer.

Using a vacuum, clean the surfaces and remove any last bits of dust and grime.

Measure the top, sides, borders, and backsplash (if appropriate) of each countertop surface you plan to cover.

You can install any style and color of laminate, including precut laminate strips.

Use contact paper or countertop film.

Cover the granite surface with contact paper or countertop film for a less expensive, more transient upgrade that will still transform your granite worktops.

Countertop film, which resembles vinyl flooring more than typical contact paper, is more robust, resilient, and thicker than contact paper, which is less expensive and more straightforward to cut.

Both are available in various hues and designs, including marble-like patterns.

While this is the case, you should remember that this is a temporary fix that will alter the appearance for a while; it will require gentle maintenance and replacement as it wears out.

After deciding on and buying the contact paper you want, spread it across your counters and let it flatten.

Cut it to size with a straightedge, sharp scissors, or rotary cutter, then align it with your countertops to ensure a good fit.

You should peel one corner and edge first to expose the adhesive side.

Attach this side to your countertop piece by piece, working slowly and deliberately around the countertop’s surface, beginning at one edge.

As you proceed, you can smooth the film using a squeegee or wide plastic putty knife to eliminate bubbles and guarantee a snug fit.

Parting shot

If you don’t like the current look of your granite kitchen countertops Raleigh, don’t worry; there are several ways to improve their look.

You only need to choose one of the given ways and run with it. You can make some of the changes yourself, but let a professional help you for the best outcome.

Tricks to Keep Your Kitchen Countertops Clear of Obstructions

Keeping the top of your countertop clutter might feel like a never-ending battle. This is because kitchens are the center of most homes, hence they rapidly become a catch-all for all the random things that don’t have a home anywhere else.

When you combine that with their practical function, the surfaces quickly get overrun with junk.

What is the best way to keep your modern kitchen counters clear? You need to make tiny but significant adjustments rather than making large commitments.

When the clutter becomes unbearable, it’s tempting to believe that a major kitchen renovation is required, but as any expert organizer will tell you, it’s the simple improvements that make the most difference.

Adopting a few basic habits and incorporating them into your normal routine will most benefit keeping your kitchen countertops tidy rather than just the short term.

To help you out, here are methods and suggestions for clutter-free countertops that you can immediately implement in your home.

Give your homeless items a place to live.

What’s the first step toward a clutter-free kitchen counter? Providing a home for all of your possessions. It’s all too easy for a stray utensil or a stack of letters to become permanent fixtures on your surfaces, but the key is not to let them stay too long in the first place.

You should allocate them a home. Begin by making room in your cupboards. You should collect anything lying about on worktops, shelves, and tables, and assign it a place. Label the shelves or containers so everyone in your house knows where to return the items.

Get countertop organizers

It may seem obvious, but investing in some creative organizer purchases is one of the finest ways to organize a kitchen. There are some kitchen organizers that no one should live without, from sliding countertop gadgets that make it easier to access your heavy equipment to a good old-fashioned spice rack to keep all your ingredients contained.

Countertop organizers help to ensure that everything in your kitchen has a place. When you lack systems of organization and don’t know where to place things, they’re likely to wind up in general locations, like countertops, where they make the surfaces dirty and ugly. You don’t want this, do you?

Put the dirty dishes in the sink.

We’ve all been guilty of stacking dirty dishes by the side of the kitchen sink or allowing them to accumulate on a spare countertop – especially if you don’t have a dishwasher. Unfortunately, this is a proven way to have cluttered surfaces.

To avoid this, place the dirty dishes, mugs, and glasses straight into the sink to keep your counters clean and neat.

This will keep them out of sight and urge you to wash them once the sink is full, preventing a washing-up marathon later on.

Keep the appliances you don’t use out of the countertops

Countertop gadgets like toasters, coffee makers, and air fryers can make meal preparation much easier, but only when they’re not taking up too much space. If your counters are cluttered with gimmicky equipment you rarely use, put them away when not in use.

Thankfully, it’s a quick and basic task.

Most people rarely use the crock pot, standing mixer, or automated drip coffee maker (they prefer pour-over coffee). Appliances take up important real estate, so consider storing them in a cabinet and enjoying the extra space they generate.

Have a kitchen command center.

Everyone has that one area of the kitchen island or the spot in front of the windowsill where they keep their daily essentials. These can be things like keys, glasses, and letters, which easily pile into small clutter. When it’s been a fixture on your kitchen counters for so long, getting rid of it is easier said than done.

To keep your countertops clean, create a designated drop zone for these often-used things. This could be anything from a fancy catch-all dish to a box or shelf. 

A command center will help you keep your paper, keys, spare change, bills, and school assignments off your kitchen’s surfaces.

You can create a command center in a corner of your kitchen or near your entryway by adding hooks, magazine folders, calendars, and whiteboards. It’s all on you and you don’t have to complicate it. 

Have a one-touch rule.

If you want to break bad habits with your belongings, decluttering ideas can be life-changing, and the ‘one-touch’ tidying guideline is ideal for kitchen counters. This rule does exactly what it says on the tin. If you pick something up, you have to return it.

Returning an item after using it reduces clutter and saves time.

You should make it a routine to return items to their proper places as soon as you have finished using them. For instance, if you run the dishwasher overnight, unload it as you wait for your toast or oatmeal to be ready in the morning.

That way, anytime you use a glass or another dish, you may rinse it and immediately place it in the dishwasher.

Have a kitchen closure routine.

Kitchens get more traffic than any other room in the house, and while they’re a social hub for the entire family, there has to be a point where you draw the line.

Set a bedtime boundary when everyone should vacate the kitchen so that you can work on it.

You should load and run the dishwasher every night, wipe down the worktops, table, and appliances, put your belongings away, and quickly sweep or vacuum the floor.

You could even go the extra mile and arrange the breakfast table for the morning.

Follow these steps, and before you know it, your entire family will be on board with your structured habits, and clutter-free granite countertops Raleigh will soon become the standard in your kitchen.  

What Makes a Good Kitchen Countertop?

When building or remodeling your kitchen, one of the most significant decisions you’ll make is the countertop material to install. 

This is because they influence the place’s visual and general mood and may also be the catalyst for developing a good cooking plan. 

If you choose the wrong kitchen countertops, you’ll most certainly wind up with culinary nightmares, and you don’t want this, do you?

To ensure that you choose the right material, you need to consider several tips: 

Ease of maintenance

Maintenance is one of the most crucial factors when selecting a worktop material for your kitchen.

If you prefer a pristine environment, you want a surface you can easily wipe.

One of the best materials to go for is Quartz. This is because it’s easy to care for and highly durable.

Quartz is made out of quartz stone particles mixed with resin. Since quartz surfaces are resilient and non-porous, they are less prone to discoloration, so cleaning oil, coffee, or juice is as simple as one swipe.

Quartz is also available in many nature-inspired patterns and gorgeous colors.

If you don’t like Quartz, you can always go for porcelain countertops highly resistant to heat and chemicals. They are also resistant to acidic or alkaline materials and will not fade or discolor over time. 

The surfaces are also easy to clean, saving you a lot of time and effort.

If you cook a lot at home, go for solid surface countertops.

These countertops are non-porous and resistant to stains and bacteria since they are made of hard polyester, acrylic, and resin. 

Solid surfaces are also highly durable and do not need to be regularly sealed.

And, if they develop dents, you can easily buff out most of the scratches. 

Cleaning up spills is a breeze, as most solid surfaces can be cleaned with a bit of soap or simple home cleaning.

Because a solid surface is not heat resistant, you should be ultra-cautious of hot pots and dishes and use a trivet to protect them.

Heat resistance

The kitchen has high temperatures, so the ideal kitchen countertop should be heat-resistant unless you are looking for a countertop that you must keep replacing. 

One of the countertop materials you can go for is porcelain. Porcelain can tolerate extremely high temperatures since it is comprised of clay and burned at high temperatures. 

Other heat-resistant countertops you can consider include Quartz, granite, and marble. 

While they are less likely to be harmed by hot pans and trays than other surfaces, it is wise to be ultra cautious and use trivets or cooling racks.

Some surfaces, even virtually shatterproof, can crack unexpectedly when subjected to severe heat, so always protect them. 

Hygiene

Many people rarely think about their countertops’ hygiene status, which is wrong. You should always consider how your chosen countertops will impact your food upon installation. 

Few materials outperform copper in hygiene, so always consider it during installation. Copper and its alloys, such as bronze, brass, and copper-nickel, are naturally antibacterial, so bacteria and viruses that settle on their surface are quickly killed. 

When you undertake regular surface cleaning, brass and copper kitchen counters make an excellent choice and provide you with the extra infection protection you are after. 

Because brass and copper have living finishes, their appearance will vary and develop with time, yielding amazing effects. 

Although these kitchen counters can be sealed with lacquer to preserve a uniform appearance and avoid discoloration, it’s important to note that doing so will counteract the material’s natural antibacterial characteristics, so it’s good to leave them in their original look. 

If you don’t like brass and copper, a reasonable rule of thumb to follow when choosing countertops is that the less porous the material is, the more hygienic it is. 

A non-porous texture prohibits the growth of bacteria, mold, or mildew, ensuring optimum cleanliness.

Ease of kneading on them

If you enjoy baking or preparing pizza and pasta, you’ll want a smooth, non-porous countertop that keeps a low temperature even when things get hot. 

Quartz is one of the best materials to consider. We already know it is non-porous, stain-resistant, low-maintenance, and easy to clean – all unquestionably important when dealing with a lot of flour.

But what makes Quartz particularly appealing is its ability to sustain a low temperature, and as all pastry cooks know, temperature counts. 

Quartz countertops keep their cool, so you can, too, since there will be no melting butter, sticky dough, or collapsed flaky crusts.

Ease of cleaning

Cleaning the countertops is part of maintaining them, and ensuring you can easily clean your surfaces is important. 

How easily you clean these surfaces depends on the material you have installed. 

If you have Quartz countertops, the non-porous, sealed surface requires less upkeep than other stone surfaces. To clean it, dampen a towel with mild dish soap and warm water or use a quartz cleaner, then dry it with a clean microfiber cloth. 

For granite countertops Raleigh, avoid leaving spills on them for extended periods, as they may develop stains or discoloration due to their porous nature. 

To clean the granite surfaces, use a moist cloth dampened with mild dish soap and warm water or a granite cleaner, then dry with a clean microfiber towel. Resealing your countertops once or twice a year is also wise to prevent watermarks and stains.

When it comes to marble countertops, you should know that it is susceptible to stains and scratches. You should reseal these countertops at least once or twice a year.

 If you like the look of marble but do a lot of cooking or baking, or drink coffee or red wine, avoid going for natural marble, as it will make it hard to keep it clean. Instead, it would be best to go for marble-looking Quartz that will give you the same look, but you have less chance of harming or staining your counters.

                                                                                                                                 

How to Redo Countertops without Replacing

If you have had your countertops for a long time, they must have lost their original look, right? Those with resources usually replace the countertops, but if you don’t have a large budget or don’t want to replace them, you can still do several things to redo the surfaces without replacing them.

How do you redo the kitchen countertops without replacing them? There are several ways to go about it. These ways include:

Paint the countertops

When done right, painting the countertops is not only economical but also gives your countertops an elegant look.

For the best outcome, use paint best suited for your countertops. For example, if you have laminate counters, go for specialist paint. You can also go for acrylic interior paint if you can access it.

For the paint to stick and give you a beautiful look you are after, you must prepare the surfaces properly. This calls for you to thoroughly clean the surfaces with a detergent and water. You should rinse the surfaces and give them time to dry before lightly sanding.

Depending on the paint you use, you might need a primer. For example, if you are using specialist paint, you need a primer, but when you are using acrylic paint, you don’t need it.

After priming the surfaces, apply the paint with a roller and use the right number of coats. Sometimes you might need to seal the paint with a resin.

Cover the countertops with contact paper

If you want to cover the countertops for the short term as you save money to improve them permanently, you can go the contact paper route.

Start with ordering contact papers from your local store. To account for mistakes, order more papers than you need. If you have never cut the papers before, you might need to practice cutting before you begin the covering.

As you practice cutting the papers, pay close attention to the corner cuts, as they often go wrong in most cases.

You should note that contact paper won’t simply stick to your old countertops. To attach the paper, you need to use waterproof glue.

As much as contact paper will cover your countertops, you should know that it’s not the most durable material, so be ultra cautious when handling it. As a rule of thumb, avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on it as it will start to peel up.

Place tiles over your countertops

If your countertops are still in good shape and you don’t like how they look, you should consider placing tiles over them.

For the tiles to stick on the countertops, ensure that the countertops are smooth and level.

When choosing the tiles, go for stain and heat-resistant ceramic tiles or porcelain that will look good and last for a long time.

You can place the tiles directly on the countertops, but you must ensure that the surfaces are clean and smooth. This calls for you to sand the surfaces and then use a special adhesive to stick the tiles on the surfaces.

If you are a dab hand at DIY projects, you can place the tiles on the countertops by yourself but if you aren’t a handy person, hire a professional to help you out.

Cover the countertops with a peel-and-stick product

If you aim to give your surfaces a new look, you can cover them with a pick-and-stick product. Like when applying the other materials, ensure that the countertops are clean.

You should then peel and stick your product of choice on the surfaces. You should note that the product sticks better on smooth surfaces, so don’t place it on damaged countertops.

Like the paper covers, peel-and-stick products aren’t meant as a permanent solution, so don’t place them on your laminate or granite countertops Durham and think that your work is done. If you want a permanent solution, you should replace the countertops.