27

Nov

5 Granite Countertops Colors You Can’t Go Wrong With

Granite is 100% natural, and due to this, it comes in a wide range of colors defined by geological occurrences. Granite countertops are also easy to maintain, so you can have peace of mind that when you install them, you won’t spend a fortune maintaining them.

One of the essential factors to consider when buying the countertops is the color of the pieces. When buying the countertops, choose a color that blends with the other kitchen accessories. Confused about the right color to go for? Here are excellent options you should try out:

White

It’s the most popular granite color. When most homeowners think about granite, this is the first color that comes into their mind. The varying mix of minerals in the countertops gives them a color that runs from a salt and pepper look to a creamy white background accented by black and light gray specs.

White granite also has veining variations that run from light gray to dark gray striations, which gives the countertops an extremely versatile look.

White countertops make a great choice when you have recently installed new appliances and trim to your kitchen. For a contemporary look, mix the white countertops with modern appliances. You can also create a traditional look by pairing granite with vintage appliances.

While white granite is exceptionally versatile, you should be cautious of the shade you choose as choosing the wrong one will give the kitchen a washed out look.

When you visit the store, ask to see the color options before you settle on a given hue.

While many adverts show granite as pure white, you should note that it’s hard to come across pure-white granite. Most of the white stones come with blue, black, gray, blue, or red flecks.

Gray

Gray granite isn’t popular, but you shouldn’t pass it over. Gray has unique qualities that accentuate the look of the house.

Whether looking for countertops that will become the focal points of your kitchen or you are simply looking for pieces that you can make dough on, you will find gray granite that will compliment your kitchen design.

Two of the most popular options are dark and light gray combinations. Go with dark gray when looking to contrast the furniture. Light gray is ideal when you want to give your kitchen a sense of more space. This means that the light gray is ideal when you have a small kitchen.

Beige

It enjoys almost the same level of versatility as white granite; hence, you can easily find one that will look good in your kitchen. Granite comes in softer, neutral hues that come in yellow, cream, and tan, giving the kitchen a warmer, cozier feel.

Many traditional homeowners gravitate towards beige as it gives the kitchen a natural color that has been sand mixed with crystals.

Black granite

Although, not popular, black granite gives your kitchen an elegant, high-end look. For a classic look, pair the countertops with neutral cabinets. When installing the countertops, you should note that black granite looks great in rooms with large windows that allow in a lot of natural light.

When properly installed, black countertops give the kitchen a subtle, elegant look and at the same time, provide the rooms with a timeless appeal. If you have a small kitchen, avoid the black granite as it will make your kitchen look too small.

If you have a medium-sized kitchen, you can install the countertops, but to reduce the shrinking look, mix them with white cabinetry.

Red granite

The use of red granite dates back to ancient Egypt, where you can find it in ancient Egyptian pyramids. Red granite comes in shades and patterns that range from rich burgundies to bright pinkish reds.

You will even find some of the red granites with white, blue, and even silver highlights. It’s this combination of colors that makes the countertops brilliant to have. If you are on the fence about installing the countertops, install red granite if looking to add an energetic feel to your kitchen.

Many homeowners find the red color too overwhelming. To balance the look, granite installers Rockville recommend you pair the countertops with neutral cabinetry.

14

Nov

Granite Contractors: 4 Ways To Keep Your Countertops In Pristine Condition

 Granite countertops don’t come cheap; therefore, when you install them, you should do the right things that make them last for as long as possible. Some of the things you should do include:

Clean them daily

When you clean the countertops daily, you prevent stains, bacteria, and spills from penetrating the seal and seeping into the stone pores.

Clean the countertops with water and a few drops of dish soap. Mix the two into a spray bottle then spray directly on the counter surfaces. You should then wipe the surfaces with a clean cloth then rinse with clean water.

Cleaning the surfaces frequently also prevents them from getting foggy and grimy with stains. As a result, you have shining countertops.

Avoid things that can destroy the countertops

There are several things that ruin countertops. They include:

Exposing the countertops to hot pans: While granite is highly heat resistant, it doesn’t mean you should consistently place hot pans on it. The hot pan might not leave an instant burn mark on the countertop, but with time, it might scratch the surfaces making the countertops ugly.

Placing items on the countertops: Placing items on the countertops either for functionality or decoration causes scratches. If you place a lot of items on the countertops, you risk creating scratches that tarnish the look of the countertops.

For you to keep the surfaces in top shape, avoid directly placing heavy items such as vases, bowls, and canisters on the countertops. The right thing to do is always to place a mat under the item.

Sitting and standing on the countertops: When you have many people in the kitchen, the countertops provide convenient sitting space. They also make excellent stepping areas when trying to reach for an item at the top shelf.

The pressure you apply on the countertops when you sit or stand on them can cause cracks that are expensive to repair. To avoid it, avoid standing or sitting on the countertops.

Cutting directly on the countertops: Since granite is tough, it’s easy to be tempted to cut directly on it. Cutting directly on the surfaces not only causes damage to the countertops, but it also damages the knife.

For you to avoid damaging your countertops, always have a chopping board with you. Never cut anything directly on the countertops.

Practice good habits

Good habits will go a long way at keeping your countertops in pristine condition. Some of the things you should do include:

Getting rid of spills as soon as they happen: Even if your countertops are sealed, leaving water and other liquids on the surfaces for a long time increases the chances of stains developing. To avoid this, get rid of spills as soon as they happen.

Use specially designed cleaners: While water and dish soap will clean the countertops and get rid of all bacteria and stains, over time, they start making the countertops foggy. For you to give the countertops a shiny look, once in a while use cleaners that are specially designed for granite.

You can visit your local store or ask your granite contractor for recommendations of the right ones to go for.

Use soft sponges and cloths when cleaning: Even if you want to remove stains from the countertops, avoid using scratching, abrasive, or harsh cleaning materials. When cleaning or removing spills from the countertops, use soft and clean cloths.

Seal the countertops

Sealing granite countertops prevents liquids from seeping in and causing stains. When you are installing the countertops for the first time, ask granite installers Montgomery to seal the surfaces with a quality sealer. A good quality sealer should protect the countertops for a few years after which you must reseal the surfaces.

For you to tell the right time to reseal the surfaces, spill a liquid on the countertop. If the surfaces start darkening, it means the liquid is seeping in. Find a reputable contractor to reseal the surfaces.

Parting shot

How you interact with your countertops not only affects how they look, it also determines how long they last. Clean the surfaces regularly, protect them from hot appliances, avoid applying a lot of pressure on them, and you will have countertops you are proud of.

07

Nov

Granite Installers: 6 Factors To Consider When Installing Granite Countertops

The kitchen and bathroom countertops you install in your home significantly affect the look of the room. It also dramatically affects the resale value of the house.

Granite countertops remain the go-to countertop materials for many people as they are durable, easy to maintain, and give the house an elegant look.

Installing the countertops isn’t simply hiring the nearest granite installers. You need to consider plenty of factors for you to choose the right countertop pieces for your surfaces:

Think about the thickness of the countertops

Granite slabs come in three thicknesses: three-quarter inch, one and one-half inch, and one and one-quarter inch.

While it’s up to you to choose the slab size that is right for your home, avoid the one, and one-half inch as attaching the two slabs will bring about plenty of problems in the long run.

Due to the large size of the countertops, glue begins to deteriorate, which creates gaps in the seams along the horizontal edges of the countertops.

The large slabs also easily get damaged, forcing you to keep on repairing the countertops. Sometimes the damage is so extensive that you have to replace the countertops.

Pay attention to the color of the countertops

Granite comes in all types of colors. The color you choose depends on your activities. If your countertops are active and you often use them, go with darker colors as they are less likely to stain.

On the other hand, if you rarely use your countertops, go with lighter colors with a complex pattern. If you have kids and you are always worried about spills, go with countertop surfaces that have a dark color with less of a pattern.

Think about how the countertops will look after installation

Many homeowners make the mistake of buying countertops that look good in the store. While the slabs are pleasant to look at there, they often don’t give your surfaces a good look when you install them.

This is because the floor, the cabinets, and other areas of your kitchen don’t match the countertops.

Before you decide to buy the countertops, first take samples with you to your home. Place them on the surfaces and see how they blend with the rest of the kitchen. For you to have countertop surfaces you will be proud of, try out several slabs and settle on the ones that give your countertops the best look.

Think about the sink

Did you know the style of the kitchen sink has a significant impact on how the countertops look? For a crispy, tidy look, go with an under-mount sink style. Avoid a top-mounted sink as it not only gives your surfaces an ugly, confused look, it also collects bacteria around the visible edges.

For you to install a sink of the right design and size, work with an experienced professional.

Think about the edges of the countertops

The edges affect the overall look of the countertops. So you should be cautious of the ones you go for. Beveled or flat edges look great with a house with modern cabinets. If the cabinets have a traditional design, go with a bullnose edge.

Do you have small children in the house? They are more likely to bump their heads on the edges of granite, so go with round corners.

The contractor you hire will go a long way into helping you choose the right edge design for your countertops.

Pay attention to the number of seams

For the contractors to tightly bind the countertops, they have to use seams.  Granite countertops don’t come cheap, so you don’t want countertop surfaces that look cheap.

According to granite technicians, there is nothing that can give your surfaces a cheap look as many improperly installed seams. For you to reduce the number of seams on the countertops, work with the right contractor.

You also should work with a countertop contractor Rockville who is highly experienced at hiding the seams. You don’t want a professional that lets everyone know where the seams are.

Before you decide to work with a given contractor, ask him/her for photos of previous work. Carefully go through the pictures and find out whether you can automatically tell where the seams are.

01

Nov

6 Granite Countertops Problems And How To Fix Them

Many homeowners install granite countertops as they are durable. Unfortunately, the countertops aren’t impervious to damage. Here are six common problems with granite kitchen countertops and how to fix or prevent them:

Ruptured countertop surfaces

A ruptured countertop gives the kitchen a cheap and unmaintained look. Many homeowners are scared of the rupture as they think they have to replace the entire countertop surfaces. This isn’t the case. If the damage is isolated, you can fix the damaged slab without touching the other areas.

Countertops rupture due to many reasons:

  • Poorly crafted joints
  • Countertops installed over uneven surfaces
  • Failure to give glue enough time to dry during the installation
  • Placing a lot of weight in one area

How you fix the damaged area depends on the extent of the damage. For small cracks, use an adhesive. For deeper cracks or damage brought about by excessive weight, remove the damaged slab using a drill then apply special filler.

To maintain a uniform look, choose a filer that blends seamlessly with the countertops.

Separating seam joints

If you notice the countertops moving and the joints separating after applying pressure on them, the adhesive might have weakened. Hire a professional stone technician to make the right adjustments to the countertops. The expert should remove the existing adhesive and replace it with a better, more durable option.

Avoid doing the replacement by yourself as you risk causing more damage than was originally there.

Dull surfaces

If your countertops are slowly losing their shine, it’s because you are exposing them to harsh cleaning products. Don’t rush to replace the countertops as there are plenty of solutions you can use without having to replace the surfaces.

Hire a professional from your local store to fix the dull granite countertops. He/she can do this by buffing and re-polishing the countertops. Don’t try fixing this problem on your own as you risk making it worse.

To prevent the problem from coming about in the future, watch the type and quality of cleaners you are using. Most cleaners are too harsh for the surfaces; therefore, stay away from them.

For everyday cleaning, go with soap and warm water. Avoid products with chemicals. When in the store, read the ingredients and ensure none can damage the surfaces.

For peace of mind, choose products designed specifically for granite countertops.

Countertop stains

Properly sealed countertops are highly resistant to stains, but when you allow even water to soak in, the countertops easily stain.

Oils, wine, and even fruit juice can penetrate the surfaces leaving stains. Don’t remove the countertops when stains happen. Remove oil stains with a homemade paste made from acetone and baking soda.

When it comes to organic stains, remove them by soaking a paper towel in bleach, then placing it on the affected area.

To prevent the stains from coming about, seal the granite regularly with a high-quality granite sealer. You also should make a habit of wiping the spills as soon as they happen.

Heat damage

Just as granite is resistant to water damage, it’s also resistant to heat damage. Unfortunately, it can be damaged by hot pots and pans. This is because the sealant and finish aren’t as heat resistant as the rest of the stone.

When you repeatedly place hot dishes on the countertops, you leave black marks on the surfaces bringing about thermal shock and even cracks. Extreme heat can also damage the sealer making granite susceptible to stains and acid damage.

For you to prevent the damage, avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the countertops. Always use hot pads, pot holders, trivets, and other barriers.

If the damage has already happened, how you repair it depends on the extent of the damage. If minor, remove the stain using toothpaste. You can also re-polish the surface. Only consider replacing the countertops if the damage is extensive.

Scratches

Only materials harder than granite can cause scratches. Scratches aren’t a major problem with the countertops, but to avoid them, granite installers Rockville recommend you avoid sliding rings with precious stones across the surfaces.

If they have already happened, applying a thin layer of polish on the surfaces will get rid of most of them. If you have the skills, you can apply the layer, but if you have never done it before, let an expert handle it.

16

Oct

Expert Tips To Tell Real From Fake Granite Countertops

Since the 1990s, granite has been the number one choice for luxury countertops. Due to their popularity, granite countertops attract plenty of unscrupulous people in business that make fake countertops. Don’t think that you can easily tell fake from real countertops. Today’s business people pay attention to every detail such that the countertops look very realistic that you will buy them thinking they are real.

Fake granite basics

There are all types of counterfeit granite slabs in the market. There are fakes such as vinyl films that you can roll out to cover countertops. There are also cheap laminates that are printed to resemble granite. There are even fake materials designed for commercial kitchens and bathrooms that have a “granite” finish that can be hard to tell, especially if you are new.

Regardless of how they resemble granite, none of these fake materials are close to the beauty and durability of granite. When you drop a hot pan or grass on the surfaces, the fake materials easily get damaged.

For you to avoid the fake granite, you need to be cautious of where you buy from. Most of the homeowners end up buying counterfeit granite when they are trying to save money. Before you settle on a given stone, take time to visit a few stores and get the average price of the slabs.

If the price is too low than average, the slab is most likely fake, and you should stay away from it. You can also avoid buying fake slabs by working with a reputable granite contractor. A good contractor will not only properly install the countertops, but also help you pick the best ones for your home.

For the countertops to look great and last for long, you need to buy the genuine ones. To help you out, here are things you should look out for to tell whether the countertops are real or fake:

Check the color and pattern

Pay attention to the color and pattern of the granite slab. If the slab has the same color and even throughout without any variation, it’s most likely human-made.

Since granite is natural, every slab is unique in its way. Not two tiles have exactly similar veins, color, and texture.

Consider the cost

This might seem like a no brainer, but you will be surprised how many homeowners will buy fake, cheap granite thinking they have got a great deal. When you visit some of the stores, they will tell you that they have a special offer and yet they want to sell you the fake countertops.

Regardless of the store you visit, if the price is too low than most of the other stores, the chances are you are on the verge of buying fake, low quality granite.

Try the water test

Pour water on the slab. If the granite is real, water should be absorbed rather than run off the slab. Manmade granite is made of epoxy resins that are completely nonporous; therefore, they don’t absorb liquids. Natural stone, on the other hand, absorbs water as is porous.

You can tell when absorption is happening by the darkening of the stone as the pores fill with water. While this method will help you to pick out at least 90% of fake slabs, it has its flaws as the fake slabs can absorb water due to their differing densities and construction materials.

Tap on the slabs

When you are in the stores, tap on the slabs, and listen. Real granite produces a ringing sound when you tap it, while fake granite doesn’t. The reason for this is because granite is made from quartz crystals and resins. Since the slabs are nonporous, the sound is muted or dull hence, you can’t hear it.

Check the joints

This is a method you can use to confirm after buying the pieces and installing them. If the granite is humanmade, you won’t notice any shift of the pattern at the seams. With real granite, you will see a pattern change at the time of installation.

You should note that experienced granite installers Rockville try to reduce the pattern changes as much as they can, which can make it hard for you to see them. For you to easily identify the difference, you should be present at the time of installation.

09

Oct

5 Factors To Consider When Buying Quartz Kitchen Countertops And Other Kitchen Countertop Materials

Whether you are looking to install quartz kitchen countertops or any other types of countertops, you need to consider several factors that include:

Your budget

This is the first thing to think about. How much money are you planning to spend on the project? If this is the first time installing the units, sit down with an experienced contractor who will help you in making the calculations. When making the budget, think about the hidden costs such as the cost of transportation, the cost of the contractors, and other costs.

The worst thing you can do is to start a project and end up stopping in the middle or be required to take a second loan. Don’t rush to the stores and buy the countertop materials without fully understanding the amount of money you need.

Countertop materials

There are plenty of countertop materials in the market to choose from. The most common ones are:

Granite: A natural stone with plenty of colors to choose from, granite is preferred by many homeowners due to its ease of maintenance and durability. Granite countertops hold up excellently to regular kitchen use, and when you install them, you don’t have to worry about the surfaces getting burnt or scratched.

Marble: Marble is known for its soft and elegant look. Unlike granite, marble is high maintenance, stains, and etches easily. Despite these drawbacks, the stone has a unique veining and beautiful look. Due to the way they interact excellently with dough, Marble countertops are an excellent choice for bakers and pastry chefs.

Laminate: Laminate is the go-to countertop material for people operating on a tight budget. In addition to being affordable, it also comes in a wide range of patterns to choose from.

Wood: Made from wood strips, wood butcher block countertops give any kitchen homey warmth. While the countertops are susceptible to water damage, they are easy to refinish; therefore, you can easily maintain the new look for long. When they scratch or develop gouges, you only need to sand them.

Solid surface: These materials are ideal when you are looking for a seamless countertop surface. Made from a combination of polyester, acrylic, and pigments, solid surface countertops feature grooves that easily fit together, giving the surfaces a smooth look. To eliminate the seams, you only need to sand and buff them.

The look of the countertops

How do the countertops look in your kitchen? You need to think about it before you make the purchase. Many homeowners make the mistake of buying the countertops after seeing them in the stores. Remember how the pieces look in your kitchen depends on plenty of factors such as the design of the kitchen, the color of the tiles, among many other things.

Regardless of how beautiful the countertops look in the stores, don’t rush to place a large order. First, take a few slabs and go with them to your home. Place them on the counters and observe how well they blend with the kitchen. Only buy those that accentuate the look of the kitchen.

Durability

No one wants pieces that will come apart after a few uses. Your new kitchen countertops should last for a long time. They should hold up to spills and knife marks. Concrete countertops are quickly gaining popularity as they are durable and stylish. They are also resistant to cracking and chipping.

Natural stones such as quartz and granite are also durable. Unfortunately, they are prone to staining.

Cheaper materials such as laminate are stain-resistant, but they are easily damaged when exposed to kitchen knives and high heat.

When buying the pieces for the first time, consult an experienced contractor who will guide you on the right pieces that are not only durable but also will give your home a stylish and elegant look.

Ease of maintenance

The last thing to think about when making the purchase is how easy it is to own the countertops. The more the care you need to give to the countertops, the more expensive they are going to be in the long run. To ensure you know what you are getting yourself into, research thoroughly, and even consult granite companies Rockville and other professionals on the amount of care you have to give the various countertop materials.

12

Sep

Quartz vs. Corian Countertops: Which is Better?

When it comes to kitchen countertops, there are so many options to choose from. From quartz kitchen countertops, granite countertops, and many more, there are a lot of countertop options that will surely suit your household’s kitchen needs. We all know how our kitchen plays an important role in our everyday lives. Whether you are a kitchen expert or simply love watching your mom cook, the kitchen can create good memories for all people in all walks of life.

When constructing your kitchen area, one of the first things you need to consider is the countertop. As mentioned, there are a lot of countertop materials to choose from. However, one of the most popular ones is quartz and solid surface (Corian). This article will discuss the pros and cons of each countertop material and which one suits your kitchen and lifestyle better.

Getting started

In choosing a kitchen countertop, you should not only consider how good it would look in your kitchen. Rather, you should also think about the benefits the kitchen countertop can give you. Is it scratch-resistant? Non-porous? Easy to clean and maintain? Durable and comes in different designs and colors? Has high resale value?

These are some things you need to consider if you are torn between choosing a quartz kitchen tops or a Corian countertop. Of course, the cost will also play an important role in choosing the right countertop for your kitchen. Also, it is essential to find reliable countertop replacement companies to get the best countertop materials in the market.

All about quartz countertops

As mentioned, quartz countertops are one of the most popular countertop materials used in many kitchens all over. However, quartz is considered relatively new as a kitchen countertop material. It is usually made of about 95 percent natural quartz and the rest is made from resin.

In other words, a quartz countertop is a combination of natural and man-made stone material. Yet, quartz is considered a high-end countertop material as compared to others such as wood, tile, and laminate.

As mentioned, a quartz countertop is made of around 5 to 10 percent resins which are either cement or polymeric-based. There are also some companies that use vegetable oil as part of the bonded resin material. Meanwhile, the remaining 95 percent is made from quartz and other materials such as glass and marble.

As for installation, a quartz countertop needs special tools to install. It can be challenging to install a quartz countertop on your own because of the special tools needed. But if you still want to install the countertop on your own, you can opt for ready-to-install countertop sheets.

A quartz countertop also has a high heat resistance and also scratch-resistant. However, it is better to avoid doing certain kitchen habits that can cause scratching and other sorts of damage to the countertop. Sealing is not usually required as it is non-porous due to the bonded resin materials.

All about Corian countertops

Corian is a popular brand name for solid surface countertops. Like quartz, Corian is also a mix of different minerals (about 66 percent) and resin material (33 percent). It does look like stone or granite countertops at first look. Solid surface material first appeared in the market back in the late 1960s by the company DuPont.

Aside from Corian, solid surface countertops are also known in other names such as Formica, Swanstone, and Avonite. Solid surface countertop materials can be easily cut using power saws. Even DIY junkies can install these types of countertops on their own, unlike quartz that need special equipment and tools to install.

On the contrary, Corian/solid surface countertops may not be as heat and scratch-resistant as quartz. In case of any presence of damage, you can use sandpaper to remove any stains on its surface. But like quartz, sealing may not be required for solid surface countertops as well.

Which is better?

Between the two, your choice will depend on the factors that you think are more important than others. If you are looking for a luxurious-looking countertop, both can provide thanks to its elegant construction and material used.

If you are looking for a more heavy-duty, heat and scratch-resistant countertop, then quartz may be a better choice. For a contemporary look, a solid surface countertop is a good option as well.

At the end of the day, both are generally good countertop options. It will also go down to your personal preference, budget, and household needs. You can hire countertop replacement companies in Rockville for your kitchen countertop requirements. Contact one today!

03

Sep

Tips on Matching Your Kitchen Countertop with the Floor and Cabinets

A lot of people nowadays tend to invest in improving the kitchen area of their homes. There are many kitchen renovation options you can choose from – from changing your current countertop into a brand-new quartz kitchen countertops or granite countertops. You would also have to consider whether to change your flooring, cabinets, and even your appliances.

However, you should first determine whether you need to have a kitchen overhaul or stick to your current kitchen design for the meantime. For one thing, it may depend on how old your countertop or flooring are. You should also prepare your budget if you are planning to have a kitchen makeover.

Getting started

With so many kitchen makeover options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to choose one that will suit your preference and lifestyle. Your options will also depend on what the current kitchen improvement trends are. You can choose to follow the current kitchen trends, or opt for a timeless design that won’t easily go out of style.

It may also be a good idea to come up with a set of criteria in planning for a kitchen renovation. Also, it can also help to know whether you want a kitchen renovation or remodel. In case you don’t know, the two are actually two different things. The former refers to repairing a current structure, while the latter refers to changing the entire existing structure.

Matching your countertop with your cabinet and flooring

A lot of homes follow some kind of theme to make a room look more attractive and coordinated. It is similar to when you choose your outfit of the day, even down to your makeup.

Whether you have quartz kitchen tops or granite countertops, the more important thing is to keep everything simple yet appealing. Here are some tips in matching the countertop with your existing flooring and cabinet.

  • Decide on your color scheme – at least with two major colors and another as accent color.
  • Choose your preferred kitchen countertop material as well as its finishing (matte, textured, glossy, or flat). From there, you can coordinate the countertop finishing with that of your flooring.
  • It can be a good idea to create a contrast between the floor and the cabinets especially if you are considering to have laminate or wood flooring. In other words, creating depth and contrast can make a difference in your kitchen’s overall look.
  • Make sure to always have samples when you go shopping for countertop to make the coordination process easier.

Choosing a kitchen countertop

There are many kitchen countertop materials you can choose from. There are popular ones such as quartz countertops. Countertop replacement companies may also offer other kinds of kitchen countertop materials such as:

  • Granite
  • Stainless steel
  • Butcher block
  • Marble
  • Laminate

Each countertop type vary in price. For example, quartz are on the expensive side which can range around $5,000 and above. On the other hand, there are cheaper options such as butcher block (may cost at least $1,700) and stainless steel (may cost around $2,200 and above).

Choosing the right countertop material may depend on your preference and need. For example, stainless steel countertops are a great option for the serious cooks out there. On the other hand, quartz, granite, or marble countertops look great in any kitchen although these are a little expensive than stainless steel.

Choosing a cabinet

Like countertops, choosing a cabinet material and style may also take time. There are cabinets with and without frames. There are also some cabinets that can be customized according to your preference and need.

Framed cabinets usually work in kitchens with traditional or classic designs. On the other hand, frameless ones work on modern or contemporary kitchen themes. It usually has hinges that are barely noticeable, giving the cabinet a sleeker look than framed ones.

Stock cabinets are usually the cheaper cabinet option, while customized cabinets are more expensive yet can be made according to your preference. Meanwhile, you can also decide on the cabinet material such as maple, pine, oak, and cherry. For cheaper alternatives, you can choose laminated cabinets that can mimic real wood yet can also offer quality and durability.

For your kitchen countertop installation needs, you can hire professional countertop replacement companies in Potomac. Contact one today!

21

Aug

Why Kitchen Repairs and Renovations in a Rental Property Should Be Addressed Now

If you have a rental property, it is a must that you make the necessary repairs and other improvements to attract potential tenants. After all, a nice-looking house or apartment unit can do a lot in attracting potential property renters. You can do either simple repairs or a major overhaul, depending on the need. For example, you can choose quality quartz countertops or granite countertops for your kitchen.

Speaking of which, one of the first rooms a lot of tenants would check out is the kitchen. It is where most of a tenant’s daily activities would likely take place. More so, it can influence a potential tenant’s decision to avail the property for rent. But for landlords, doing kitchen renovations may not be as easy as it seems although still achievable.

Getting started

Rental property renovations can be challenging and even expensive in some cases. That is why a lot of landlords tend to put these supposedly urgent tasks in the metaphorical back seat. The same applies to planning for a kitchen renovation. Addressing kitchen repair and renovation concerns in your rental property will benefit not only the tenants but also you as a landlord.

As mentioned, it can attract potential renters and think that the property is well-taken cared of. In effect, repairs and renovations can help in increasing your property’s market value. Most of all, addressing these concerns will prevent repairs and renovations in the future.

When planning for a repair or renovation, it can be tempting to keep up with the latest kitchen trends. One instance is choosing the right kitchen countertop such as granite countertops and other countertop options. Then again, trends come and go so it is better to choose kitchen materials that won’t easily go out of style.

Common kitchen renovation trends to avoid

Addressing kitchen repairs and renovation is important especially if you are a landlord. This is to avoid issues that can turn off a potential renter. Aside from that, it is also a reflection of you as a property owner and a property owner. However, make sure to avoid these common mistakes in renovating a rental property’s kitchen.

Using kitchen repair and construction items that are not eco-friendly

Given the increased environmental awareness these days, applying eco-friendly products can appeal especially among old and new-age millennials (around age 20s to 30s). One way is by using paint with little to none of the volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Likewise, use lightings with Energy Star label for optimum energy efficiency and conservation.

Presence of hanging pans and other kitchen utensils

Back then, it is normal to see hanging pans and pots in a household kitchen. Apparently, it makes the kitchen look homey. Apparently, times have changed and so the perception of modern homeowners. Instead of hanging pans and pots, you can have large kitchen drawers installed under quartz kitchen tops or other kitchen countertops.

Using faux wall painting finishes

For one thing, faux finishes are already things of the past. It can even turn off potential tenants. Instead, you can choose to paint with neutral shades because they are easier to maintain. You can also opt for wallpapers if you prefer to go fancy on your kitchen walls.

Things to consider in rental property kitchen renovation

Your budget will be a major factor in planning for a kitchen renovation/repair in your rental property. However, there are other things to consider before proceeding. These are the following.

Kitchen design preference

People especially potential renters have different preference when it comes to kitchen designs. For example, some tenants may prefer having engineered stone countertops while others might prefer other countertop materials. In such cases, it is better to choose a kitchen design that will be acceptable to the general public.

Material

For one, choosing the right kitchen countertop material should be taken consideration as well. It is a major part of your kitchen where durability and quality should be among the top priority. Among popular countertop materials include granite countertops and quartz kitchen countertops. There are other countertop materials available in the market today.

Appliance

For rental properties, it is better to buy electric appliances. Make sure it also suits your budget and made by trusted brands/manufacturers.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of kitchen materials you choose, you should put the future renters’ welfare on top of your list. If there are some parts of the house that need to be repaired, make sure to address it immediately to avoid worse issues in the future. Also, hire only the best countertop replacement companies in Rockville for your kitchen countertop needs.

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What to Consider Before Installing a Kitchen Island

The kitchen is one of the busiest parts of the house, especially if you are fond of preparing home-cooked meals for your family. Your kitchen countertop will play an important role in making your kitchen area productive. Whether you choose to have a quartz countertop or hire granite countertop installers, you should do your own research and choose the right countertop according to your kitchen needs.

If you have extra space in your kitchen, why not add a kitchen island? A kitchen island not only can make a kitchen more interesting but also adds up to your culinary working space. It can also be made from different countertop material whichever your preference is. In such cases, you can hire granite companies or find a quartz countertops dealer for your kitchen island material.

Getting started

Adding a kitchen island may or may not be a luxury in your kitchen area. It depends on whether you need one for your kitchen. Many homeowners can do well without having a kitchen island. On the other hand, it is one of the best kitchen additions a lot of homeowners have ever made.

Nevertheless, having a kitchen island can provide several benefits for homeowners. For one, you can choose from a wide variety of designs and materials that will suit your kitchen needs. It is a nice centerpiece and also a practical solution for an extra workspace while doing your thing in the kitchen. It can help a lot in making your kitchen space more organized and add life to it as well.

What to consider before adding a kitchen island

Before adding an island in your kitchen area, there are several things you need to consider first. As mentioned, having an island can be one of the best additions you can have in your kitchen. It can serve as an additional workspace and storage area for your kitchen area. Plus, it can look good in all types of kitchens.

However, adding a kitchen island may depend on how your kitchen looks like and whether it can be able to accommodate one. That said, here are some factors to consider before hiring quartz countertop contractors for a kitchen island installation.

Space

Contrary to popular belief, you can put an island regardless of the kitchen size you have. That means you would also have to adjust the size of the island depending on the total size of your kitchen. There are also different kitchen island designs you can choose from.

Foot traffic

Once you have already decided on the island you will have installed, make sure you still have enough space to move around the kitchen. Experts recommend installing the island at least 4 feet away from your current kitchen counter.

Purpose

Decide on how you are going to utilize the kitchen island. Do you want it portable with wheels? How about adding a built-in cabinet for extra storage? Or perhaps install a sink on it? The possibilities are endless. You can consult a professional contractor for possible alternatives.

Material

As mentioned, kitchen islands are available in different materials. Some can be made from granite, quartz, concrete, wood, or any other building material. Regardless of your choice, make sure to check the pros and cons of each material in terms of durability, aesthetics, and ease of cleaning and maintenance.

Other things to think about in kitchen island installation

Aside from the abovementioned factors, there are other considerations you need to take note before building a kitchen island. Here are some of them.

Follow the island’s shape according to the kitchen layout.

At the end of the day, you would also want the island to complement the overall look of your kitchen. If you have a rectangular kitchen, the island should be rectangular-shaped as well. It is also better to install the island parallel to the kitchen’s longest wall area.

Make sure to clean the island’s surface regularly.

To ensure the quality of the kitchen island, make sure to clean it properly. This will help make the surface clean and durable at all times.

Plan ahead on how you want the island to look like.

If you want to incorporate a sink or add an appliance on it, make sure to plan ahead. Consult a professional contractor about your plan so they work around it.

Finding a professional kitchen contractor

If you are planning to build a kitchen island, make sure to hire reliable countertop replacement companies near you. Contact professional granite contractors in Montgomery County MD today!