21

Mar

Different Kinds of Granite Finishes

In a construction project where an architect is looking to bring richness and exquisiteness, granite is the best option. Granite’s beauty is timeless and this is what will make it a preferred material for construction applications. It can be a residential or commercial project, and the granite stone application means low maintenance and high durability.

Among the best things about granite is its uniqueness. No two slabs are exactly the same, even the ones that are extracted from the same quarry. When you talk to a quartz countertop dealer, you will see the different slabs and prove that one of them is never the same. You can read more about the different finishes now.

Polished

The most common granite countertops finish is polished. The polished finish makes the granite countertop surface glossy and almost similar to a mirror. When the finish is polished, the stone characteristics are highlighted. The textures and colors are more vibrant.

The polished finish is very easy to clean; it is easy to keep the countertops polished and looking new. In addition, the polished finish will seal the stone pores to prevent moisture and water from going into the stone.

You can take care of polished granite, which includes polishing and resealing the stone aside from keeping it clean.

Honed

Granite with a honed finish shows a matte or satin buffed look. This kind of surface finish will have lesser replication and shine in comparison to the polished look, which gives a laxer look. A honed finish induces a calm, off-the-cuff appeal while upkeeping the character and class of the granite and polished finish. For people who are looking a little subdued, honed granite for backsplashes or countertops is an excellent choice.

This surface is a bit popular when it comes to countertops because it leads to a smoother and better finish.

Leathered Finish

Compared to other surface finishes, this one is relatively new and gaining popularity rapidly in the décor industry. It has a subtle gloss that is lesser than the polished one and it includes a textured look. The texture is going to differ from one piece to another, and some natural stones have a distinct leather finish compared to others.

This type of surface finish is discovered to give a warm and rustic appeal to the surface of the stone. Even if the leathered finish is not as glossy, it normally has more depth compared to a honed finish. Mostly, the leathered finish stone exhibits stain resistance, fingerprints, scratches, and smudges. The downside of the finish is that it does not require an even and smooth surface, and one can put heavy effort into cleaning natural fissures and pits.

Flamed

Granite is a natural stone that has a flamed finish because of the high heat that is applied to the stone surface. This will make the flamed finish quite rare; the truth is, it is popular for outdoor kitchens, but it is not normally used indoors. In order to create a flamed finish, the granite is heated under extreme temperatures that will cause the grain in the stone to change color and burst. The final product contains a rougher surface with an appearance that is natural and faded. Countertops that have flamed finishes are normally muted in color.

Brushed

This type of finish has a textured surface. It is quite smooth without any sheen. It is resistant to scratch, which means it can work amazingly for interiors and exteriors, making it easy to handle.

You can contact granite countertops Potomac anytime if you want to have the best countertops installed.

28

Feb

How to Protect Your Kitchen Countertops

After you spend so many hours looking through magazines, bringing samples home, and checking the way they look under different lights, you have finally chosen your countertops. You have ordered them from the quartz countertop installer, paid for them, and are now just waiting for everything to finish. The hard part is protecting them from everyday use. With the time, work, and money you spent on acquiring the countertops, you want to be sure that you do what you can so they will always look clean, new, and fresh.

Among the first things, people or prospective buyers notice when they enter a home are the countertops. They come in different materials, each having its own care instructions.

Material

Most kitchen countertops are made of granite or quartz, and they normally have a polished finish making them beautiful, but delicate as well. Even if granite is tough, you should never cut onto the surface directly. You should be careful not to drag pots and pans on the surface because it can scratch the polished finish. Spills have to be immediately cleaned to avoid stains since granite is porous that can absorb liquid easily. Certain foods in particular – acids such as vinegar, citrus, and soft drinks – will leave etches in granite. You should use gentle washing detergent to dampen the cloth to clean the kitchen counter and not abrasive or harsh cleaners.

Do Not Use Your Countertop as a Step Ladder

Even if countertops are known for their durability, they might not have the strength to hold your weight as you look for a pot in the cabinet or change a bulb. In terms of safety, you should not stand or step on the countertops. If countertops become cracked or chipped, you should contact a repair company right away.

Wipe up Spills Immediately

Regardless if it is soda in the kitchen or a contact solution, you should clean up spills right away. When you leave them sitting on the kitchen counter, even for a couple of minutes, it will allow time for them to soak into the countertop and leave a residue.

Make Sure that the Stone is Properly Sealed

Stone countertops are popular for their low-maintenance nature. Therefore, a lot of people have the tendency to forget that many kinds of stone are porous and might absorb liquids that can lead to stains. You can avoid this issue if you periodically seal your counters. When you have the right products, sealing can be simple.

When you have soapstone counters, they never have to be sealed. Soapstone is extremely dense and will never absorb water. However, you might want to oil it to make sure that the stone patina is developed evenly.

Avoid Damage

There are a lot of things you can do to protect stone countertops and help prevent any damage. You should have your guests use coasters to avoid spilled liquids or drink rings. It is suggested that you place them out so that they can easily be accessed. This will also encourage your guests to use coasters, without getting prompted.

Another way you can avoid damage is to use pads that are heat-resistant. These handy kitchen essentials are excellent for pots and pans, together with casserole dishes, crockpots, and a lot more.

Even if this is given, it should be said that you must always use a cutting board when you prepare food. Sharp knives will leave etches on stone countertops, which normally cannot be repaired so you should be careful.

You can contact granite countertops Montgomery County MD anytime if you want to have the best countertops installed.

08

May

Common Mistakes When Choosing Granite Countertops

Granite kitchen countertops are among the best materials that can be used in the bathroom and kitchen reservations if you want a pristine and durable finish. While the beautiful and unique surface offers a lot of durabilities to withstand resist chips and heat, spills, and a lot more, there are a couple of mistakes that cause some damage to the stone.

Caring for your granite countertops and staying away from the common mistakes that cause damage maintains the surface’s longevity. While you know that life happens, knowing that can be damaging to your granite countertop is important in preventing you from paying for granite contractors again too soon.

You should not worry, because the common mistakes you need to avoid are mentioned here.

Wrong Thickness

There are 3 standards of marble thicknesses when choosing counters. You can choose between ¾ inch, 1.75 inches, and 1.5 inches.

You should avoid using the last options because problems can emerge from attaching two granite slabs. When the glue starts to deteriorate, it can cause gaps in the seam together with the horizontal edge or it can cause future damage to the surface, especially from everyday use.

Choosing Color Over Quality

Another common mistake is that first-time granite shoppers choose the color over the stone quality. Sure, it is important to match the surface’s color to the existing features of the kitchen, but you need to be careful to not sacrifice it because of aesthetics. White is among the most popular options for most stone countertops. However, white needs more caution and care because it easily stains compared to others. Dark colors such as brown and black hide spills and stains, there it reduces the maintenance needs and stain-removal treatments. One incident is that if you drink a glass of red wine, it could ruin your white surface if you accidentally spill it. Stains are difficult to remove without professional stain removal or sanding.

Seam Placement is Incorrect

Between granite’s natural colors, patterns, and great installer, seams should not be noticeable. Therefore, you can guarantee to have a seam on your countertop, so you must try planning for it. The more action a seam directly gets, the faster it is going to wear out.

You should try positioning the seam inconspicuously away from the faucet. If possible, it should not be right next to the sink. However, if you have no choice, position it perpendicularly and not parallel to the side edge of the sink. By doing this, you are providing extra support to the sink and preventing unnecessary joint stains.

Does Not Match the Cabinet Styles

You must always choose an edge for the granite countertop that will complement your cabinet style or vanity. For instance, flat or beveled edges will look best in a room that has modern cabinets. If you have traditional-style cabinets, you should choose a bullnose edge. The edges have to be round, especially if it is on the bottom if you have small children who can bump their heads on the granite’s edge.

Poor Edging Choices

When you are choosing an edge profile, indecisiveness comes naturally. You want to choose an edge that matches your current kitchen, but you also want a slab edge that is versatile. It should be able to match the future style changes and upgrades. However, you must choose the correct profile upon installation because you cannot change it without removing the stone and then sending them back to the manufacturer. That is why you must finalize your installation.

You must contact granite countertops dealer Potomac to help you achieve your dream kitchen countertop.

 

14

Mar

Advantages of Replacing Your Kitchen Countertop

Every kitchen and the majority of bathrooms have built-in countertops. If you want a perfect workspace, you need solid countertops and wooden cabinets that are waist-high. They are useful, beautiful, and smooth. The majority of stone and granite countertops add some elegance to your kitchen, as well as any design of a kitchen. It is also good to replace your countertop and make it a major remodeling project to revamp your kitchen.

Homeowners want to install new countertops even if they already have one in their home, but people certainly know why they want to replace their countertops. If you want to know the benefits of getting a new one, this article will tell you.

Chip and Scratch Resistant

One reason why people want to get granite countertops is that they have the durability to resist scratching and chipping under normal circumstances. Granite is the 2nd hardest material, and the first is diamonds.

You should be cautious about using very sharp cleavers and knives since they might cause marring. That is why you must use a chopping board when you chop, slice, and dice foods. Are you aware that granite countertops last almost forever if they are installed together with the right support bracket? Now you know.

It Will Match Your Island Countertop

When you have installed a new kitchen island, it is a good reason to get new countertops as well. You will require a newly installed countertop surface to match the island. Therefore, you want other parts of the counters to match them. Adding a kitchen island is a great opportunity to have completely upgraded the look and feel of your kitchen. Your existing cabinetry can get a fresh paint job and then pick a countertop that is beautiful on the island and your entire kitchen countertop.

Increases the Resale Value of Your Home

If you want to sell your home in the future, take into consideration that your kitchen is one area that greatly influences the decision of a buyer. A kitchen remodel can add thousands of dollars to your home’s selling price, with a significant ROI. Even just a minor remodeling project, like replacing countertops, can have the same effect.

Resistant to Moisture, Heat, and Stain

Aside from being chip and scratch-resistant, a granite countertop is also resistant to moisture and stains when you use the right sealant. Since granite countertops are porous, sealing is important to guard protect them against staining and etching by acids and alkaline. You must remember that sealant should be reapplied yearly to keep the resistance.

In addition, food and liquid spills should be removed right away with mild detergent and water. When spills dry on the countertop, it is very easy to scrape them off. In addition, heat and pressure are used to form granite which means they are heat resistant, so you can place hot pots and pans on them.

Replace Low-Quality Materials of Countertops

Some homes do not have a high-quality countertop, to begin with. A lot of older homes were created with Formica or laminate countertops, and they are both less desirable inside any home. Aside from being low-quality, they are also poorly made so they become less attractive as time goes by. Any homeowner who sees a shabby and low—quality countertop has all the reasons to replace the counters with attractive countertops. You should replace every countertop in your house because Formica is not only limited to a single installation job.

If you are looking for countertop replacement services Potomac, you can contact them right away for the best outcome.

 

 

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!

13

Aug

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!

05

Aug

What to Consider Before Replacing a Countertop

So you are now finally planning for a major overhaul after many years of being stuck with your current kitchen. Having a kitchen makeover may take some time and money to accomplish. Choosing the right materials are also crucial if you want to create a whole new look in your kitchen – and keep it that way. In addition, a kitchen makeover should be planned carefully as it can affect your daily life in one way or another.

If you currently have a countertop, you may also have to consider replacing it as well. It may be more likely especially if your current countertop has been there since the entire house was built decades ago. There are many countertop options you can choose from such as quartz countertops to granite countertops among a few.

Getting started

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in your house. It is also one of those which usually catches the fancy of many visitors and among the favorite areas of many homeowners. No wonder a lot of homeowners choose to invest their time and money to improve their kitchen areas. From choosing the right countertop material down to the accents, it will definitely make or break your kitchen’s overall look.

For your countertop needs, you can hire countertop replacement companies in choosing and installing the best countertop that will suit your needs. With so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming especially for first-timers to select the best countertops that will complement their actual requirements. Not only should a countertop look aesthetically appealing but also functional and long-lasting.

Different countertop material options

Before going ahead in the kitchen makeover project, you should choose whether to upgrade your countertop or leave it as it is. On one hand, it will depend on your preference and your kitchen design requirements. On the other hand, it can be a good idea to upgrade into quartz kitchen countertops or any other countertop materials available.

Speaking of countertop materials, there are so many options you can choose from. Aside from quartz, other popular countertop material options currently available include the following.

Granite

Granite countertops are also one of the most popular countertop materials around. It is known for its durability and elegance. It is also available in different color options that will suit your kitchen design needs.

Marble

Aside from countertops, marble is also used as tile floorings and walls. It is also available in different colors and patterns that may suit your fancy.

Laminate

This type of countertop material is durable and is also available in different colors, textures, and patterns. It can mimic other materials such as wood except that laminate is more durable and long-lasting than the latter.

Solid surface

This is another type of countertop material that is also available in different colors and patterns. It can be easily integrated into any kitchen sink and seem to complement each other.

How to choose a countertop

Here are some things you need to consider when looking for a kitchen countertop:

Budget

It’s nice to check out kitchen countertop ideas online. However, it may not suit your budget. If the budget is tight, make sure to do it before the entire kitchen renovation project. It will depend on how much you are willing to spend and the lead time you are willing to dedicate for the renovation. At the end of the day, no one wants to exceed your allotted budget which can cause stress later on.

Maintenance level

All countertop materials such as engineered stone countertops and others require some kind of maintenance to ensure its longevity and look. For example, a wood countertop may need applying oil sealant at least once every six months. On the other hand, some stone countertop materials need regular sealing as well. But for quartz and granite, there is no need for sealing – simply wiping it clean with every use is enough.

Alternatives

As mentioned, countertops can be expensive. If you don’t have enough budget to replace it with a new one, you can make it like new again. How? One way is by repainting it. You can also replace a part of the countertop so it won’t be as expensive.

Rely on countertop experts

Countertop replacements may need pros to do the job, much more if it is an entire kitchen makeover project. But if you want to replace your countertop, it is best to hire countertop replacement companies in Rockville. Contact one today!

17

Jul

How to Choose the Right Type of Countertop According to Your Need

With so many amazing countertop options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one that will suit your needs. There are some of the most popular ones including quartz kitchen countertops and granite countertops among a few. That is why it is important to know the different types of countertops, their respective features, and proper maintenance of each.

In choosing a countertop, you should not only look at each option according to its aesthetic appeal. They are more than just their material and pleasant appearance. Rather, each countertop material offers benefits that can make homeowners’ kitchen experience more worthwhile.

What to look for in a countertop

There are several factors to consider when looking for a countertop. For one, it depends on your personal preference in terms of physical appearance. Aside from that, here are some other considerations when looking for a countertop.

Lifestyle

First of all, you should determine the different types of countertops. Among popular ones include granite countertops and engineered stone countertops. Each of these countertops offers unique features that can benefit their users. From there, you can narrow down your options so you can determine which countertop will suit your needs.

Maintenance

Some homeowners like to maintain their homes as often, while others are not so much. Depending on who you are between the two, choose a type of countertop depending on your maintenance tolerance. For example, there are low-maintenance ones such as quartz countertops, while others have porous material that needs frequent cleaning.

Budget

There are some budget-friendly countertop materials such as laminate and tile. If you are willing to spend more on a countertop, you can choose materials such as granite and quartz.

Usage

Choosing a countertop will also depend on how often you will use it.  If you love to cook and would most likely use your countertops, choose easy-to-clean and durable countertops such as stainless steel, resin, or porcelain. Some countertops may also stain easily or cannot handle heat well, so make sure to know more about your options.

Environment-friendly

If you are keen on adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle, there are countertop materials that offer just that. For example, some countertops are made from recyclable materials that are very eco-friendly.

Popular countertop materials

Among popular countertop materials you can choose from have their own pros and cons. That is why it is important to be familiar with these options so you can choose the right one for you.

Quartz

It is a popular countertop material that is guaranteed to be durable and easy to maintain. It can also resist scratches and won’t require frequent sealing. However, be careful when putting hot items on it as it is not really heat-resistant.

Porcelain

It can be more suitable for contemporary homes and has different color options. It is also easy to clean due to its non-porous surface.

Granite

It has a luxurious and elegant appearance, yet it is also scratch-resistant and durable. Make sure to seal regularly so it would last longer.

Laminate

It is also available in different color options and can adapt to the same appearance as other countertop materials.

Marble

It has surpassed the test of time in terms of being one of the best building materials out there. It can look good in your kitchen, too. Make sure to seal it regularly as it can be prone to staining.

Other tips to remember

The above-mentioned types of countertop materials are only some of the many more options available. It can be overwhelming to choose the right countertop material, but you should be stressed when doing so. Here are some tips to remember before calling countertop replacement companies to install a new countertop.

  • Choose the countertop first before building or remodeling your kitchen. Most likely that your countertop will set the theme of your kitchen.
  • Make sure that the countertop you choose will blend in with the other kitchen finishings. Check slab samples before buying or installing the actual countertop in your kitchen
  • Don’t be afraid to choose a countertop material that is too meticulous to maintain or are prone to stains. It really depends on your personal preference and your willingness to ensure the material’s longevity.
  • Pay attention to your backsplashes as it can add character to your countertop and your kitchen in general.

Find a reliable countertop contractor near you

For your countertop installation needs, make sure to deal only with reliable and skilled countertop replacement companies in Rockville.

09

Jul

Granite Countertops: More than Just a Kitchen Centerpiece

Countertops are usually installed in kitchens and bathrooms. There are also different countertop materials available such as quartz countertops and granite countertops among a few. With so many choices to choose from, it can be overwhelming to select the right one that will suit your needs. For one thing, you should be familiar with the popular types of countertops available in the market nowadays.

Common countertop materials

There are different types of countertop materials commonly used in homes and commercial establishments. Among these include the following:

Natural stone

Under natural stones are quarried stone materials such as marble and granite. The former is also a popular countertop and flooring material that has naturally-elegant patterns that do not need painting. It also requires high maintenance levels and frequent sealing to ensure its high-quality appearance for a long time.

The latter, on the other hand, was once a countertop for well-off families. But over the years, it has become more common in many households and is also one of the most popular. Granite kitchen countertops come in different colors and designs that will suit your personal preference. It is also heat-resistant, but make sure to have it sealed and cleaned regularly.

Engineered stone

Another popular countertop material is the engineered stone countertops. It is made mostly from quartz material. It is also known in other names as Cambria, Zodiaq, and Silestone among a few, all of which do not require frequent sealing. It can be expensive yet can make your kitchen or bathroom attractive.

Ceramic

Tiles can also be a great countertop material, but one of the most popular ones is made from ceramic. You can choose from a wide variety of colors, patterns, and designs, and make sure to choose tiles that are suitable for as countertops and floors. It may also need regular resealing to ensure its quality appearance all the time.

Where you can use granite countertops

Most likely you have already heard about countertops made from granite. Or perhaps you have one at home installed by professional granite countertop installers. However, countertops including granite or other materials can also be used in different ways aside from kitchen and bathroom purpose.

For one thing, granite counters have an attractive appearance and can make a difference to any home. However, granite does not only look good in the bathroom and the kitchen. Here are some other locations in your home where you can install countertops.

Laundry area

If you have or planning to have a laundry area in your home, you can consider installing a granite counter there. For one, it can serve as additional counter space. You can even add storage cabinets underneath for more storage space. Instead of placing newly-folded laundry and other cleaning products on the floor, you can utilize the countertop instead.

Home office/study room

You can use a table made from granite as your office or study table. You can also create a countertop with built-in cabinets or storage area underneath that can serve as additional shelving space.

Dining table

Instead of the usual granite countertop, you can have a dining table built from granite or add a granite slab as a table top. You can also from a variety of designs and patterns that will suit your needs.

Flooring

Some floor tiles are made from granite which you can opt to use for your home. You can even mix and match granite tiles to add a unique appeal to your home flooring. Make sure to clean and vacuum the floor regularly to ensure its shiny and long-lasting quality and appearance.

Home décor and accessories

A simple square slab of granite can make a room look interestingly different. For example, you can use it as additional shelving area for bathrooms or the living room. You can also mount a small slab of granite and put on brackets or frames for an instant piece of art on your living room or kitchen walls.

The future of granite

While there are a lot of innovations in terms of countertop materials, granite companies will continue to serve customers for the next years to come. Stainless steel and laminate countertops are continuing to make waves in the countertop industry. Yet, the appeal of granite and other traditional countertop materials won’t go out of style anytime soon.

Finding reliable countertop suppliers near you

For your countertop needs, make sure to deal only with professional and trustworthy countertop replacement companies in Rockville. Contact one and avail free consultation services today.

01

Jul

What to Consider Before Choosing a Countertop Replacement Company

All homeowners want to have an attractive home. To achieve that, they should plan on its building elements including the floor tiles material, wall paint color, and furniture to be used. For your kitchen, you would need a sturdy yet stylish countertop that would create a statement on your humble kitchen area. You can choose from different countertop material such as granite countertops that can be installed by professional granite installers near you.

Among kitchen fixtures and appliances, the countertop is perhaps one of the first things that get noticed. It is usually made from different materials – there are quartz countertops, others made from granite, marble, and glass among a few. Choosing the right countertop that will suit your need is one thing. Finding reliable countertop replacement companies is another thing.

What to look for in a reliable countertop supplier

For your home improvement needs, you would only rely on the professionals. This also applies when you are looking for a countertop installer. If you want a new kitchen countertop, you should hire only professional ones to ensure work quality. At the same time, you want to be assured that your newly-installed countertop will last for many years.

You also want your countertop to be one of your house’s attractions, so it is best to choose one from reliable countertop suppliers. Here are some tips in finding the ideal countertop supplier for your kitchen needs.

Do your own research.

There are many ways where you can find granite countertop installers. You can ask for referrals from your friends or find one online. You should check feedback from previous clients in terms with their overall experience working with the countertop contractor. You can also check their sample works for your reference. If most feedback is positive, you may consider giving the countertop company a call.

Have options.

To ensure that you will get the right countertop contractor, you should have several options for comparison purposes. From there, you can ask each contractor the following crucial questions:

  • How long have they been in the countertop installing business?
  • Did their workers undergo professional training?
  • Are the workers insured and treated well?
  • How much do they know about this industry (countertop installation)?
  • Are they currently working on other installation projects as of now? If so, is it possible to have an ocular of the ongoing project?
  • What will be the installation timeline?

Ask for the estimated project cost.

After you have chosen potential contractors from your list, ask for a written estimate from each. This includes the countertop that will be installed, labor costs and other expenses. You can also expect them to conduct an ocular inspection before proceeding with the installation project.

You can also ask questions if there is something unclear on the estimate. You can also negotiate with the price when necessary. Once questions are cleared, the signed estimate will serve as an official project document. The project should be done as smoothly as possible – communication is a major key.

What to consider before buying a countertop

There are a lot of countertop options clients can choose from – ranging from different materials, patterns, and colors that would suit the house interiors and the client’s preference.

You can choose between quartz countertops or any other countertop material of your choice. Among things to consider in choosing a kitchen countertop include:

  • Is there a small actual sample available for your reference?
  • Does the countertop have a warranty?
  • How much is the countertop?
  • How big should the countertop be (depending on your size requirements)?
  • What is the right countertop material that will suit your needs?
  • How easy is it to clean and maintain the countertop?

Other tips in buying a kitchen countertop

Cost is also important if you are looking for a kitchen countertop. However, the cost may depend on several factors such as:

  • Material – depends on the color, design, and availability. It can cost between less than $10 to as much as $500 per square foot.
  • Add-ons – does it have a built-in cabinet and sink? These will also affect the countertop cost.
  • Size and shape – it depends on your needs and the size of your kitchen, so you should consider that as well.

Find a reliable countertop installer near you

There will be at least one professional countertop company near you. Choose a reliable and established countertop replacement companies in Potomac or anywhere else nearby.