19

Dec

The Different Kinds of Counter top Finish

The kitchen countertop will give your home a new look, and it’s therefore important to choose the right color, pattern and the countertop finish that suits your kitchen. It’s important to visit several granite companies and check the several countertops finishes available and choose the one that will cater to your needs and bring out your style. Make sure you review the materials available at the quartz countertop dealer and determine which one works for your kitchen. When choosing a countertop below the consideration, you need to make;

  • Color and pattern you want

There are different tones and hues, patterns to choose. Make sure you choose the one that will work for your house. You can consult the granite contractor on the best color and patterns for your countertop.

  • Type of countertop material that suits your kitchen

Do you want a granite countertop, quartz countertop or marble? Discuss your countertop needs with the granite installer and choose one that works for you

  • Countertop edge that will work for you

There is a different kind of countertop edges. If you have a family make sure you choose the edge that will not harm your young children as they move around the kitchen.

  • Top finish and feel

There are different kinds of countertop finish, and in this article, we delve deep and tell you about them.

Types of Countertop Finish

  • Polished Finish

Polished finish is one of the most common finish, especially on granite kitchen countertops. It’s one of the most common countertop finish and most people tend to go for this finish. It gives the countertop a gloss, reflective and smooth feel and it’s one of the finish you will find it in most homes. A polished finish has the following advantages

  • It makes the countertop less porous, and the smooth nature of the finish makes it easy to clean. A polished finish is therefore ideal for a restaurant or high traffic kitchen.
  • When the countertop is polished, it’s easy to see the color and character of the stone. The highly reflective mirror surface will make your kitchen look more elegant and luxurious.
  • A Polished surface is more stain resistant and doesn’t require sealing often.

The granite installer makes a polished surface through honing and buffing which is grounding the countertop with smooth abrasives until it becomes shiny. When well maintained the countertop will be shiny for years, and if it loses the shine, the honing and buffing process can be repeated. To keep your countertop looking shiny for long make sure;

  • Clean the countertop often with the right materials. Seal the countertop when necessary
  • Avoid using abrasive cleaning materials on the countertop

A polished finish will make your countertop the center of attraction, and it’s, therefore, important to make sure you complement it with other appliances and other surfaces.

  • Honed Finish

It’s also known as the matte finish, and it’s smooth and creates a satiny feel. When the surface is honed, it will not reflect but will redistribute light and give your kitchen countertop a rustic beauty. A honed surface is made by buffing, but it’s not made to shine. A honed surface will conceal any flaws on the countertops. With a honed finish, you will not be able to see the color and texture of the countertop, and it stains easily.  A honed finish works better on marble countertop because it retains the veining and contrast in the marble. The main disadvantage of a honing a kitchen countertop is that the color of the countertop may fade.

  • Leathered Finish

A leathered finish will bring out the natural characteristics of the stone. The finish is created using an abrasive diamond brush and results in a texture that resembles leather. The leather finish doesn’t reflect any light and gives the countertop a more natural look. The finish is perfect for high traffic kitchen because the leathering process seals the pores of the countertop and its nonreflective nature conceals the flaws. If you have an outdoor countertop the leathered finish is perfect. To keep the countertop looking good, use a cloth and a cleaning agent to clean the surface daily. It’s ideal for dark granite countertop because it retains the color of the stone. A leathered surface highly stains resistant and hides imperfections.

  • Flamed Finish

Just like the name suggest a flamed finish is created by exposing the countertop to extreme heat. The high heat levels cause the countertop grains to burst and change color results in faded appearance. A flamed finish is perfect for an outdoor kitchen. The only natural stone that can be flamed is granite.

  • Caressed Finish

Caressed finish is created by adding shine to a leathered finish. Areas that have bumps on the countertop are polished to give your countertop an elegant and a rugged surface. Caressed finish is perfect for granite countertops because it seals the pores of the countertop

There are other finishes such as river washed and Tuscan which is mainly decorative.

Visit the quartz -granite installers Rockville and consult on the best finish. Make sure you choose the finish that will suit your kitchen. Follow the care procedure as instructed and you can enjoy a beautiful countertop for ages.

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.

19

Sep

Most Popular Kitchen Countertops Colors

Without a well-done kitchen countertop, it will be hard to have a functional kitchen. The countertop you use will make your kitchen stand out and give your home value. If you are thinking about remodeling it’s important to choose the right color and style for your kitchen to bring out an elegant look. In this article, we look at the most popular countertop colors. In case you are not sure what colors you should use to match or complement your kitchen cabinets speak to the experts at the granite companies and they will help you choose the best color.

Factors to consider when Choosing the color of your Kitchen Countertop

  • Color theme and matching accessories

Matching the countertop color to your cabinets color will make it more gorgeous. Take note of the pattern on the floor and lower cabinet and choose the color that will match or complement the colors. It’s important to choose a color that will match with a lot of other colors just in case you change the color of your cabinets later. Consider the undertones in the room and that will help you decide the color to choose.

  • Style

Different colors will bring out a different style. Colors like white look good and match with different cabinetry. white bring simplicity and sophistication.

  • Traffic and activity in the kitchen

If you run a restaurant while white may bring out sophistication and class, it may be hard to maintain. Black is more suitable for the very busy kitchen as its easy to maintain.

Most Popular Kitchen Countertop Colors

Below are some of the most popular kitchen countertop. If you are remodeling your kitchen below are colors you should choose.

  • Softy Veined White

A quartz or a granite countertop in white with flecks or grains will bring a contemporary, fresh and clean feel to the room. White is one of the most admired countertop colors as it gives your kitchen an ultra-fine feel. In less busy kitchens white is the perfect color as that will give the kitchen a natural richness, sense of cleanliness and makes the kitchen look sophisticated. White also makes it easy to match with lighting giving your kitchen regal look.

White countertops are ideal if:

  • You want the kitchen space to look big and light
  • If you want to have a modern and traditional look in your kitchen

 

  • Black or Dark Countertops

Black or dark countertop may appear very traditional, but they are perfect to harmonize your kitchen. Dark countertops match well with the dark cabinet. If you install a dark countertop that gives you more options for cabinetry and lights. Dark countertops will bring out the color of cabinets. To make your kitchen look good make sure you have a lot of lights as that will make your kitchen look comfortable and sophisticated. If your kitchen cabinets are dark, dark countertop are the perfect color to match and compliment your countertop.

Dark or black countertops are good for you if:

  •  If your kitchen has dark cabinets and you want to match
  • You have colored cabinets then a black countertop is perfect to complement the cabinets
  • If you have smoky and mirrored backsplash
  • If you want to achieve a black and white theme

 

  • Grey

Grey and other colors such as beiges or creams are neutral counter colors. Creamy countertops add a peaceful look to your kitchen. Gray will give your kitchen a contemporary look and its perfect to pair with colorful cabinets.

Grey countertop is ideal if;

  • You want a neutral color for your kitchen
  • If you have colorful cabinets
  • If your theme is black and white, gray will soften the look

 

  • Dramatic colors

Boldly veined countertops will make your kitchen look amazing. The more dramatic your countertop the less dramatic colors you want to add. If your countertop has bold veining, consider using less daring colors in your cabinetry and backsplash.

Dramatic countertops are good for you if:

  • If your kitchen is large
  • To make the countertop to stand out
  • If your cabinets are dark

The first step is identifying the countertop that works best for your kitchen. Whether it’s granite countertop, quartz countertop or engineered stone make sure it will suit your kitchen. Once you have selected the countertop, its time to pick out the color that will match and complement the kitchen cabinets and an accessories best way to pick the best color for your kitchen countertop is to visit the quartz countertop dealer and take-home samples to compare with your cabinetry. Pick the granite-marble countertop color Rockville that will give your kitchen that regal effect.

09

Jul

How to Choose a Vanity that Will Make Your Bathroom Stand Out

A bathroom vanity can help you make such bold statement and make your house stand out. The bathroom vanity will add value to your home and complement the style of your house. Its imperative that you choose one that is unique and gives your house a regal effect. The best place to start while choosing the vanity is at the granite companies as you will be able to meet an expert who will advise on the various aspect of a bathroom vanity. We give you expert advice on how to choose a bathroom vanity that looks good in your bathroom and suits your needs

Steps to Choosing the Bathroom Vanity

When choosing a bathroom vanity, consider the following;

  • Consider the use of the bathroom Vanity

It’s important to consider who will be using the vanity. When remodeling the bathroom it’s important to consider who the users of the bathroom are and how they will use and what they will place on the vanity. Get a design that works for you

  • Decide where the vanity will be placed

The plumbing will determine and dictate where the vanity will be placed. A wall mounted vanity may require extra works of plumbing. The floor mounted may use the previous plumbing structure.

  • Look out for obstacles

The design of your bathrooms can be changed but it may hard to move walls and doors. Consider how the door swings, decide where you want to place the toilet in relation to the toilet position. Make sure the vanity doesn’t become a hindrance when the bathroom is in use. Visualize the final look of your bathroom. A granite contractor will help you design the bathroom and suggest ways to make the most of the space.

  • How much Storage do you require

A vanity will add storage and before you settle, decide which kind of storage you need. Consider the kind of storage you will need and whether the vanity will fit in the space available

  • Pick out the Material you want for the Vanity

Your vanity will come into contact with makeup, cleaning products and water. The material you choose should be able to withstand the kind of activity in your bathroom. Granite countertops are the all-time favorite, but quartz countertops and engineered stone countertops are also materials you can use. The granite -quartz countertop installers will be able to guide you on the best material to use to ensure you achieve the style you want.

  • Personal Style

The choice of vanity should make you happy, and bring out your personal style. Make sure the end result is what you hoped for by inviting the professionals even as you choose the material you want to use.

How to Choose the Right Bathroom Vanity

There are many aspects of a vanity that you have to consider

  • Size

The size of the bathroom vanity will depend on the size of the bathroom. Check that the width, depth, and height of the vanity you choose and confirm that it will fit without overcrowding your bathroom. Ensure that there is enough space for traffic. Make sure the shape of the vanity will not hinder movement.

  • Number of sinks

How many sinks do you need? The number of sinks will determine the size of the vanity. Two or more sinks will require a bigger vanity space.

  • Mounting Design

There are three designs you can choose to mount the bathroom vanity. The freestanding is the easiest, the wall mounting and corner mount. Choose the style and design that is easy to implement and bring out the classic style you want.

  • Countertop Material

Choose the countertop material that will work for your vanity. Quartz countertops will withstand soap and makeup. Granite countertop will bring nature into your bathroom while engineered stone works well if the traffic flow to the bathroom is high.

Tips for Easy Installation of the Bathroom Vanity

Make sure the design you choose brings out the best design and comfort to your bathroom. Make sure the design you choose is functional and makes your bathroom stand out.

09

May

How to Choose the Best Countertop for an Outdoor Kitchen

If you are an avid cook, then the kitchen is the focal point of your daily life and its functionality and beauty is an important aspect for you and family. There is a various aspect that makes the kitchen have the aesthetic value and functionality we all love that includes finding the right granite countertop installers, right flooring material, and cabinets that suit your kitchen needs.

What if your kitchen is outdoor? What do you need to make it look as fashionable and trendy as you would hope for and yet serve the function. When designing an outdoor kitchen there are various factors to consider. One of the most important section of an outdoor kitchen to consider is the kitchen countertop to use, but before we go to the materials that are best for the outdoor kitchen countertop, we look at what factors do you consider while choosing the materials for your outdoor kitchen.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Materials for an Outdoor Kitchen

  • Weather Conditions

The material you choose should be able to withstand fluctuating weather conditions. The Cabinetry materials that you use should not absorb moisture or crack due to the heat outside. Whether it’s the granite countertop, quartz or engineered stone countertop, it should be able to withstand the extreme weather conditions. Involve your granite contractors as they will be able to help choose the best surface for an outdoor kitchen countertop. Your quartz countertop dealer has the experience and knowledge and will advise accordingly. Granite countertops are top of the list when it comes to countertops as they can withstand hot and cold conditions.

  • Exposure Levels

Is your outdoor kitchen fully exposed or its partly? Depending on the level of exposure choose materials that are durable and will able to withstand the weather and still look good. The flooring material you choose should not fade due to the sun or absorb moisture. Your kitchen countertop should be able to withstand the level of exposure . The material should be fade free, heat resistant to ensure that the countertop serves you for long while its still good looking.

  • Function and Elements to include

How often is the kitchen going to be in use and what the purpose of the kitchen? Depending on the use choose materials that can withstand traffic. It’s also important to decide what elements and appliances you want in the kitchen. If the kitchen is near the house you may not need to have the refrigerator in the outdoor kitchen.

  • Space Available

Look at the available and decide on the how your kitchen will look like, how much space you have determined the size of the quartz kitchen countertop. The space available will help choose the appliances, cabinets, and equipment you have in your kitchen. Ensure that your kitchen space is optimized.

Choosing the Outdoor Kitchen Countertop Material

Choose the countertop material wisely for durability and longevity

  • Quartz

The wide variety of colors and styles of the quartz countertops makes it ideal for outdoor kitchen, but the resin used in bonding the countertop together may not handle extreme temperatures. Use quart for the countertop if there is no complete exposure and the temperatures are not extreme.

  • Marble

Marble comes in a variety of colors but can’t stand prolonged exposure to weather elements. it’s therefore not ideal for outdoor as it will not last. You can, however, use the countertop on a table worktop that you move after use.

  • Granite

Granite is all time favorite and remains one of the best kitchen countertop material because of its ability to withstand both hot and cold and even wet conditions. Proper care and maintenance will ensure the countertop looks good for long. The variety of color and its natural aesthetic make a granite countertop ideal for your outdoor.

To get the best out of your outdoor kitchen consult the granite-quartz-marble countertops installers Rockville at the granite companies on the best outdoor material based on the above factors. The granite-marble-quartz colors should complement the outdoor kitchen to give the regal effect it deserves. The quartz countertop installers should be able to do the installation and give the kitchen the best functionality it deserves and you can enjoy your cooking as you overlook the beach or that mountain or town.