20

Nov

How to Choose the Right Counter top

The high number of good countertop materials available makes it hard to choose one that will fit your home. You need to choose the countertop that will make your home look good after years of use. It’s important to understand each kind of countertop and choose the one that fits your kitchen. It’ important to use objective criteria to choose the best countertop for your home. If your kitchen is mostly for social gathering, you need to choose a countertop which is more appealing while if you are a serious cook then consider choosing a heat-resistant countertop. In this article, we tell you what you should look out for when looking for a countertop. It’s however important to ensure you consult granite contractors on the best kitchen countertop for your home.

How to Choose Countertops

Look and Appearance

You need to decide the aesthetic value you want, and which countertop fits your kitchen.  After you decide the kind of look you want for your kitchen you need, then you need to determine how to use your kitchen. Is it a restaurant, social place or simply a family home? Once you determine the use of your kitchen, then you will need to choose the countertop that fits your kitchen. Below we sample the most popular countertops.

Granite countertops

Granite countertops are top of the list and its one of the most commonly used kitchen countertops. They will add elegance to your space and make your kitchen look gorgeous.

Advantages of granite kitchen countertop

  • They will give your kitchen a luxurious look
  • Have a natural look
  • Durability and scratch resistance

Disadvantages

  • Require sealing often

Quartz Countertops

The engineered countertop comes in a variety of colors. it looks good in a contemporary space

Advantages

  • Variety of color options
  • Easy to clean and doesn’t require sealing
  • Scratch resistant

Disadvantages

  • Expensive

Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle is crucial when choosing a countertop. How much maintenance are willing to put with to ensure your countertop last long. Consider selecting the countertop you can be able to take care of. If your countertop is for a restaurant, consider choosing one that is stain resistant. Quartz countertops are heat and stain resistant and are ideal for a high traffic kitchen. Quartz also requires minimal maintenance and its perfect for busy kitchens.

If you have little maintenance time, make sure that you choose the countertop material that will work for you. Quartz and engineered stone countertops don’t require sealing and are low maintenance. On the other hand, if you don’t mind putting in the maintenance work, then granite countertop will work for you. Marble and granite countertop will require to be sealed often.

Traffic in the Kitchen

The restaurant has high traffic, and they require a countertop that is heat and stain resistant. You will also need a nonporous countertop to ensure that your countertop doesn’t harbor any bacteria’s. Make sure you determine the level of your activity in your kitchen and choose the countertop that will be able to withstand.

Eco-Friendly countertop

Make sure that you choose an eco-friendly countertop material. Use a countertop material that is friendly to the environment.

Budget and family

Choose the kitchen countertop that is kid friendly. If you have a family with small children, consider using a countertop that is stain resistant and requires low maintenance.

Also, consider your budget. The granite contractor will give you a quotation on the various countertop options available. Choose the one that is within your budget. Consult the quartz countertop dealers on the kitchen countertop that fits within your budget.

Criteria for Ranking Countertop Materials

  • Appearance

Choose a countertop that will increase the aesthetic value of your home

  • Value

Consider the cost of the countertop, cost of installation and maintenance cost

  • Stain resistant

Make sure the countertop you choose can withstand the kind of activity in your kitchen. Ensure its stain resistant

  • Heat Resistant

If you are looking for a countertop for a restaurant make sure its heat resistant.

  • Resale value

Countertops are an investment to your home, and they should perk up the value of the home. Choose a countertop that will increase the value of your home.

It’s paramount that you choose the right countertop for your home. Make sure that its professionally installed by the granite-Quartz -marble countertop installers Rockville for the best outcome. Choose the countertop that you can maintain and brings out your style.

09

Oct

How to Clean and Take Care of Your Outdoor Kitchen Counter tops

Your outdoor kitchen countertop makes your home more appealing and its therefore important that you keep the countertop clean and well mantained.  Its imperative that your countertop is well maintained to keep your outdoor kitchen looking beautiful for years. Your granite countertop installers Rockville will advise you on how best to take care if your countertop depending on the functionality of your kitchen. The outdoor kitchen countertop is an investment and it’s therefore important that you follow the right maintenance and care procedure.

Consideration to Make when Choosing an Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material

  • Functionality

It’s important to consider the use of the outdoor kitchen. If it’s a  busy kitchen consider using granite countertop as its one of the best material that will last for years and still look good.

  • Environment

Some countertop materials will fade and lose shine in a harsh environment. It’s therefore important that you choose a material that can withstand all the weather elements. Marble countertops may fade with time and you need to choose a countertop material that can withstand the weather elements without fading or crumbling.

  • Style

What style does want to bring out? Talk to the expert at the granite company and they will advise you on which is the best material for your outdoor kitchen.

  • Budget

Consider your budget and choose the material that fits your budget. The quartz countertop dealers will be able to give a quotation on the various materials available and the cost of each.

Cleaning and taking care of your  Outdoor Granite Countertops

The granite countertop installer will give tips and advise on how to keep your granite countertop looking good. The granite countertop should be sealed after installation and the sealant should be well maintained to prevent your countertop from damage. Depending on how often you use your outdoor kitchen make sure your granite kitchen countertop is well taken care of and maintained. Below some steps on how to take care of your outdoor kitchen countertop 

  • Clean your countertop regularly. Make sure that you clean the countertop every day using mild water and soap to clean your countertop after use. Avoid abrasive cleaning materials as that will make the top dull.
  • Avoid overloading the countertop. When not in use make sure that there are no objects placed on the countertop. Don’t sit or stand on the countertop.
  • In case of tough stains use baking soda paste to clean the countertop. Once you have mixed baking powder with water, apply it on the countertop and let it sit for minutes before cleaning it off. Make sure you clean off any spill immediately.
  • While cutting meat and other foodstuffs avoid cutting directly as that will result in scratch marks.
  •  If you are not using the countertop for prolonged periods make sure your countertop is well protected from the harsh weather. You can install shade over the countertop. Even the best countertop will fade under harsh weather conditions.
  • Clean your granite with shine enhancer  from time to time to keep it looking good

Taking care of  Outdoor Engineered Stone countertops

Engineered stone is made from minerals and held together by a resin binder. Examples of engineered stone include quartz countertop, engineered marble, and polymer concrete.

Cleaning Engineered countertops

  • Engineered stone is nonporous making it easy to clean and maintain. To clean the countertop use warm water and soap.
  • Use nonabrasive cleaners to avoid damaging the countertop
  • When scrubbing off stuck foodstuff use a plastic putty knife.

Tips to Keep your Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Looking Good

  • Make sure your granite countertop is properly sealed.
  • Cover your countertop when  not in use to protect it from the harsh weather elements
  • Clean the countertop after use. In case of stains speak to the quartz countertop installers on the best combination to clean the countertop
  • Make sure you use the right countertop material for your outdoor kitchen

The outdoor kitchen lets your family enjoy a meal away from the hot kitchen. It’s therefore important that you take good care of the countertop. Make sure that you speak to the granite -Quartz installers on how best to take care of your countertop. How well you take care of the granite countertop or the quartz ocuntertop will determine how durable and good looking it will be.

29

Sep

Pros and Cons of Quartz Kitchen Counter tops

Over the years quartz kitchen countertops have gained prominence and although granite countertop remains at the top of the ladder, quartz countertops are quickly catching up. Quartz which is a manmade engineered countertop is made of 94% ground quartz minerals and 6% resins, polymers and pigments.  In this article, we look at why you should consider using quartz for your kitchen countertop.

Pros of Quartz Kitchen Countertop

  • Non-Porous

The polymer resins that are placed between the crushed quartz fills the spaces in between and ensure there are no gaps in between making it nonporous. Unlike natural stones, the pores of the countertop are sealed making it durable, resistant to stains and liquids. The nonporous nature of quartz makes it highly anti-microbial making it more hygienic to use especially in the kitchen. The closed pores inhibit the growth of moulds and bacteria that produce toxins and cause food poisoning. Pores can also track liquids which can harbour bacteria, and that makes quartz one of the best kitchen countertop.

  • Multiple colours available

Quartz countertops are available in many different colours. Its, therefore, a good colour to match with your kitchen cabinets, backsplash, and floor tiles. If you are remodelling your kitchen, consider using this countertop for your kitchen there are many colours you can choose from and perk up the value of your home.

  • Low maintenance

Quartz is durable and almost indestructible. Due to its nonporous nature, it’s easy to maintain and clean. If you are looking for a countertop for your busy kitchen, quartz is low maintenance and will be perfect for your restaurant. To clean the countertop you need warm water and mild detergent.

  • Stain Resistant and Corrosion resistant

You don’t need to keep resealing quartz to protect your countertop from stains and corrosion. Quartz countertops resist stain and corrosion without any need to seal the top.

  • Heat Resistant

Quartz Countertops can withstand heat up to 250 degrees Celcius and compare to other surfaces its best heat resistant countertop material. If you run a restaurant and you are wondering what materials won’t bend or warp when it comes into contact with the hot pan, a quartz countertop is the most ideal material.

  • Scratch Resistant

Quartz is made of hard minerals and its therefore not easily scratched. It’s however important that you take care of the countertop. Make sure you place any items you want to cut on a plank. Quartz is one of the most durable countertops and unlike other surfaces doesn’t scratch and cut easily.

  • Impact Resistant

Compared to other countertops, quartz countertops will absorb a lot of impacts and still be durable. The polymer increases compressibility and makes the quartz more strong and flexible. Resin is a shock absorber which makes quartz hard and brittle. If you run a restaurant then you want a countertop that can handle pressure and a little weight. Quartz countertop will handle the pressure and weight without crumbling or breaking.

The above advantages of quartz countertops and below some disadvantages of the quartz countertop.

Cons of Quartz countertops

  • Cost

The cost of quartz countertop ranges from one quartz countertop dealer to another. It’s therefore important that you visit the quartz dealer and get a quotation. However, in comparison to other countertop materials such as laminate quartz is more expensive.

  • Not Suitable for Outdoors

Quartz countertops are perfect for your indoor kitchen but will fade due to prolonged exposure to elements. Polymer resin reacts to continued exposure to sunlight and rain and the colour pigment fades. There are other better options to use when it comes to outdoor countertops such as granites.

  • Not completely Heat Resistant

Quartz is only heat resistant up to 250 degrees Celsius and if you place anything hotter than that there is a chance that your countertop will melt up.

Quartz is one of the best countertop material, it’s however important that you confirm both the pros and cons before deciding to use the material. In spite of the great qualities taking care of the countertop will ensure it last longer. Visit the granite countertop company and let the expert advise you on the best material for your kitchen countertop. The kitchen countertop you choose should bring out style and make your house more beautiful. To get the best out of your countertop make sure the installation is done by the quartz countertop installers Rockville for the best outcome.

19

Aug

How to Fix Problems with Kitchen Countertops

The kitchen countertop is a major investment and it’s important that whichever countertop you choose that it’s not bespeckled with scratches and black marks. The tiniest mark, scratches, stains or etches on your countertop means a drop in the value of the countertop and subsequently depreciation in your house value. It, therefore, goes without saying that you need to take utmost care of your Quartz kitchen countertop to keep it looking good for long. Most of the countertop problems can be avoided by simple maintenance practices and before you settle on any countertop ensure that it suits your kitchen and you are able to take care of the countertop.

Main Kitchen Countertop Problems

  • Rupture

A ruptured countertop result from installing the countertop in unlevelled surface or the adhesive used to bind the countertop was not given enough time to dry. A rapture could also result from placing a very heavy load on a small countertop.

  • Stains

The kitchen is one of the busiest places in the house and sometimes it gets messy. Liquids will often spill on the countertop and that may result in stains. Foods such as oil, the wine will occasionally spill on your quartz countertop or granite countertop resulting in stains. Red wine especially may cause the countertop to change to red color while water left for long on the countertop will make it dull. A lighter shade of countertops will stain easily from water than the darker ones.

Water-rich in minerals could also cause a build-up in the countertop resulting in a circular stain.

  • Scratches

Abrasive cleaning detergent or that sharp knife will result in scratches ruining your countertop

  • Etch Marks

Etch marks will make the granite countertop duller and this results from acidic chemicals. Some granite countertops minerals will dull if they come into contact with acidic detergents.

  • Cracks

Countertops will mostly crack on the edges when they lack enough support from below. It’s important to let the professionals from the granite company install your countertop. In case the cracks are in the middle its best to contact the granite installers as they will know how to repair a separating countertop without damaging it.

  • Wrong Design

Wrong countertop design is a common problem during remodels. You will find problems such as long or short countertops, wrong edge profile, horizontal surfaces which are no flat or wrong angles can be devastating.

How to Avoid and Fix the Main Countertop Problems

  • Cleaning the countertops

While cleaning the countertops ensure you use detergents with a neutral PH. Avoid acidic solutions such as lemon, vinegar, or any cleaner with acidic and harsh ingredients. Wipe any spills immediately especially if the spill is acidic to avoid staining the countertop. You can prevent stains by cleaning the countertop immediately. Ask your quartz countertop dealer for any cleaning ingredient specifically meant for the kind of countertop you have. Always place acidic foods in a plate when preparing them.

When removing stuck foods use a brush with soft bristles to remove the stuck dirt. Avoid abrasive scrubs as they will lead to scratches.

  • Use Cutting Boards to Protect the Countertops

Make sure you protect your countertop from scratches and etches by using cutting boards while cutting any foodstuff. Avoid cutting meat or any other when its directly placed on the countertop as that will result in scratches or even cracks. Some foods may contain acidic liquids that may stain your countertop.

  • Hire a Professional Installer

Make sure you the granite installer or quartz installer for a perfect professional installation. Avoid home DIY as that will result in losses and damage to your countertop. If you notice a rapture on your countertop let the granite installer asses it and advise on the best way to remedy the rapture. Make sure the countertop is installed by the expert from quartz countertop dealer to make sure the design is right.

Choose the most ideal countertop for your kitchen, one that can handle the kind of work that happens in your kitchen. With the right countertop, the right care and maintenance will help prevent most countertop problems. Talk to the Quartz-granite installers Rockville and they will advise you on how best to take care of your countertop. Develop routines on how to clean your worktops especially if you run a hotel. Let the experts at the granite company install the countertop for you to avoid any installation problems.

19

Jul

How to Choose a Counter top Replacement Company

Your kitchen is the heart of every home and plays a crucial role. Its the room where people meet to eat, cook and have a good laugh and it’s therefore important that features and accessories that you install give it the regal effect. A lot happens in the kitchen and the kitchen countertop can take a beating from all this or even break in the process. To replace the countertop, you need to find a countertop replacement companies to perk up the value of your kitchen. Wondering how to pick out the best countertop replacement company? Keep it here for an in-depth analysis of how can choose the best team for the job.

How to Select the Best Kitchen Countertop

There are different kinds of kitchen countertop materials. They are;

  • Quartz Kitchen Countertops
  • Granite countertops
  • Engineered stone countertops

Below are the some of the factors you should consider when choosing a kitchen countertop

  • Budget

Different countertop materials have different cost and before you choose a material to visit the granite company and get a quote on different material. Make sure that the cost of the materials and installation is included in the quote. Choose the one that that fits in your budget.

  • Use of the Countertop

Consider the use of the countertop and the reason for replacement. If you are replacing a broken countertop due to a higher kitchen traffic consider choosing a countertop that can handle the high traffic. Granite countertops work well in high traffic areas and doesn’t fade from direct sunlight exposure. Your granite countertop installers will help you choose the one that is perfect for your kitchen.

  • Style

What style do you want your kitchen to have? Make sure the material you choose bring out the visual look you want. Granite countertops have a natural look and feel and their look is timeless.

Once you have chosen the kitchen countertop that suits you, its now time to choose your countertop replacement company.

How to Choose a Countertop Replacement Company

The installation company plays a major role in the final kitchen look and its imperative that you pick the right team. Below are tips to help you pick the right countertop installers.

  • Expertise and Experience

Visit several countertops replacement companies and get to meet the team. Ask questions to be able to gauge their expertise. Ask to see past projects and gauge how well they have been executed. Choose a team that is knowledgeable and a vast experience. Check and ensure they have the right credentials and if they belong to an accredited organization. Make sure the team has necessary knowledge on the countertop you have chosen. Interview several companies and choose one that has the required expertise.

  • Ask for Recommendations

Choose a company whose work you have verified and loved. Ask your friends and family for the recommendations of companies that fixed their granite countertops or Quartz countertops. Pick the best out of the pack.

  • Get a quotation

Ask for a quotation from the companies and choose the one that fits in your budget. It’s important that you ensure that you choose quality over price. Make sure the quotation you get includes all the costs involved and look out for any extra charges.

  • Choose a company with the necessary equipment

Hiring countertops cutting materials will increase the cost of the kitchen countertop. Make sure the company you pick has the right cutting materials and any other materials that are required during the replacement.

Review the quotations you have received and ask any questions that you may have. Choose the company that has the right level of expertise and skills to do a perfect job. If two have the same quality of the job, choose the one offering a lower price. Make sure you gather as much information as possible on the company you choose. The granite-quartz countertops installers Rockville you choose should have the knowledge and expertise to give your kitchen a regal finish.

Once you have settled on the company of choice sign the quotation and work contract. Arrange details on when the work will be done. Make a schedule and if possible be part of the installation process. Make sure you communicate your expectations to the team before and during the installation.