24

Dec

What Should You Look Out For When Hiring Granite Installers?

Choosing the right granite slab for your kitchen or bathroom is fun. You see the slab in the showroom, you take a sample home and see how it looks on your counters, then go back to the store and make the purchase.

After buying the most appealing countertop slab, you move onto the next stage—finding the best granite installers. The contractor you hire can make or break your project; therefore, you should take your time and ensure you hire the right one.

What should you pay attention to when hiring?

References

Has the contractor worked with other homeowners in the past? This is vital as it will give you peace of mind that the contractor knows what they are doing. An experienced contractor will have references of people they have worked with before.

Ask for their contacts and go ahead and reach out to them. Ask them about their experience with the contractor, how long the contractor took to complete the project, and any other details that will help you make an informed decision.

While an installer affiliated with a showroom will be experienced, you should avoid them as the showroom often pays them less; hence they are less likely to give you an excellent service. If you have the budget, you are better off finding your contractor.

Photos of previous work

In addition to asking for people the contractor has worked with before, you also should ask to see pictures of projects they have handled before. Experienced contractors will be eager to show you their work, and this is a good sign.

Carefully go through the photos and confirm they aren’t all the same. If they are similar, it means the contractor is only experienced at installing pre-cut counters, which isn’t good. You want an all-around contractor.

You also should be on the lookout for the nature of the installation. If most of them are counter installations, that is a good sign, but if most of them are flooring installations, you have a reason to worry. For a great experience, go with a contractor who is more concerned with countertop projects.

Ask about cuts, edging, and seams

The granite batch you buy from determines how the contractors will handle the project. If the batch requires the contractors to join many slabs, you should discuss it in length before the project commences.

Experienced installers will be excited telling you about the different joining options that will result in a seamless surface based on the pattern variations on the slabs.

When discussing the edges, the experts will present ideas that are not only possible for the grade of stone you bought, but those that will also be aesthetically pleasing depending on your kitchen cabinets.

You also should get to see their equipment. Modern equipment creates accurate and clean cuts and beautiful seams. Even if you have never seen any granite cutting tool, you can easily tell a modern from an antique tool, so don’t be scared about asking to see the tools of work.

Area of expertise

Granite technicians can specialize in two areas: installation and fabrication. While you will be more interested in a person who specializes in countertop installation, you also want someone with fabrication experience.

This is because you are bound to come across areas that the contractor will need to fabricate.

Price

How much is the contractor charging for their services? The amount charged greatly determines whether you will hire the contractor or not. You should note that high fees don’t always mean the contractor will give you an excellent service.

At the same time, you shouldn’t go for the cheapest contractor as they are most likely inexperienced; hence they will most likely provide you with substandard services.

The best way out is to identify a contractor who provides you with excellent service at an affordable price.

You should note that some contractors will give you a low quotation but end up selling you later on, so the project ends up being too expensive.

To lock the price, get a written quotation from the contractor.

When you are searching for good granite countertop installers Potomac, you should get quotations from two or more contractors. This way, you have an opportunity of comparing their services and fees.

19

Dec

7 Ways You Are Destroying Your Granite Countertops

Did you know you could be destroying your granite countertops without even knowing? Here is how you could be doing it:

Failing to use a cutting board

Granite slabs are tough, so nothing can destroy them, right? Wrong. When you cut directly on the countertops, fine scratches develop that disrupt the waterproof sealant on most countertops. This makes the countertops more susceptible to damage.

Placing vegetables directly on the countertops is also harmful as the vegetables tend to contain acids that etch at the countertops leading to damage.

For you to keep the countertops in top shape, avoid cutting anything directly on them. The best way out is always to have a cutting board in place.

Putting the car keys on the countertops

After a long day at work, what do you do? You throw the car keys on the countertops, right? This is wrong because the keys cause scratches on the countertops.

Just as you shouldn’t place keys on the countertops, you also shouldn’t place handbags there either. The metal dots on the bottom of the bags scratch the countertops leading to damage.

What should you do?

You should create a specific area to place the keys after work. Most people have a unique bowl at the door entrance to place the keys. You should place one there too. For the handbags, hang a few nails on the door where you will be hanging your bag after work.

Using the wrong cleaning products

Did you know that the cleaning products you use to clean kitchen countertops has a significant impact on the life of your countertops? As a rule of thumb, don’t use vinegar as it dulls the countertops. You also should avoid products that are too acidic as they are known to destroy the countertops.

If you regularly clean your countertops, soap and water are enough to leave your countertops in top shape. If you have to use cleaning products, find those that are specifically designed for your countertops.

Placing frozen food on the countertops

It’s common for homeowners to place frozen foods on their countertops when unpacking their groceries. This is wrong as the moisture from the frozen foods ends up damaging the countertops.

You should place the foods in another area way from the countertops such as on the floor. If you have to use the countertops, lay a plastic paper before placing the foods. This way, you prevent the water from getting to the countertops.

After unpacking the groceries, wipe the countertops thoroughly to prevent stains from coming about.

Placing hot appliances on the countertops

Even if your countertops are tough, heat from heat-producing appliances such as ovens can destroy them. So always work at preventing damage to the countertops as much as possible. You can easily do this by placing a barrier between the appliances and countertops.

You can use a dish towel, plate, or cutting board.

Failing to clean the spills when they happen

When spills happen, some homeowners ignore them as they feel that their countertops are sealed; hence they can’t allow the liquids to get in. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case.

Even if you have sealed your countertops with the highest quality countertop sealing products, liquids are bound to pass through if you allow them to sit on the countertops for a long time.

As you might guess, for you to prevent the spills from destroying your countertops, you should get rid of them immediately. To prevent spills, have coasters in place all the time.

Placing heavy objects near the edges

This often happens when homeowners are from grocery stores. They will come with heavy grocery loads and put them on the sides of the countertops. If the edges or joints are unsupported, they will fracture, crack, or even rupture.

When you are back in the house from the grocery store, place the groceries on the floor. If you have to put them on the countertops, place them at the center—not on the edges.

Just as you shouldn’t place heavy loads on the countertops, granite countertop installers Rockville also advise against standing or sitting on the countertops. You also shouldn’t place heavy kitchen appliances such as microwaves on the surfaces.

06

Dec

9 Things You Shouldn’t Place On Your Granite Countertops

While granite countertops are tough, certain things can destroy them hence you shouldn’t place them on the countertop surfaces. These things include:

Raw meat

No. Raw meat won’t damage your countertops. When you place the meat on the countertops, salmonella and other bacteria are left on the surface, and they can spread to the other food you place on the countertops.

If you have ever placed meat on the countertops, you always have the urge to cleanse the surfaces with harsh disinfectants, right? This happens with most homeowners.

The disinfectants and cleansers dull and damage the countertop sealant. In some cases, the products are too tough that they discolor the granite.

For you to keep your countertops in top shape for a long time, never place raw meat on the surfaces. When cutting the meat, put it on a cutting board.

Knives

Due to their look, the countertops might seem like the perfect areas to chop your food. Unfortunately, the surfaces are prone to chips, cuts, and scratches that can dull them.

When you cut on the surfaces, you can also dull the knives, which increases your risk of lacerations.

For you to protect your countertops and knives, avoid chopping directly on the granite surfaces. Just like with meat, have a cutting board in place. When placing the blades on the countertops, keep them inside a protective knife block.

Spills

It’s hard to avoid water spills on the kitchen countertops, but you can stay away from juice and wine spills. You can do this by avoiding placing the products on the countertops. When the spills happen by mistake, clean the countertops immediately.

The reason for this is because the spills leave a dark shadowy spot that gives the surfaces a cheap, ugly look. Of significant importance, avoid wine and cranberry juice spills as they leave light-colored stains that are hard to remove.

Acids

Soft drinks, citrus fruits, vinegar, lotions, perfumes, nail polishes, and soaps are acidic, and can etch the surfaces and damage the granite seal, making the countertops stain more easily.

In the kitchen, keep the acidic products in a drawer where they can’t get into contact with the countertops. When cooking, be cautious that you don’t spill them.

In the bathroom, put the personal care products in a cabinet or basket with a secure base that won’t leak in the event of a spill.

Impact damage

It’s true granite is extremely hard, but the impact of a heavy object can cause it to chip. Chipping is common around the sink and edges. The visibility of the chips depends on the color of the countertops.

For you to prevent the damage from coming about, be cautious when lifting heavy objects above the countertops.

Oil

When cooking, it’s common for oil used in cooking to leak down the bottle. The oil can stain the countertops leaving ugly stains. For you to prevent stains resulting from the oil, keep the oil bottles and oily sauces in the cupboard.

Hot pans

Granite is an igneous rock that can handle a lot of heat; thus, a brief encounter with a hot pot won’t hurt the countertops. While this is the case, exposing the countertops to excessive heat weakens the sealants, which not only means that the liquids directly flow into the countertops, it also gives the countertops an ugly look.

For you to prevent the countertops from getting damaged, always have trivets and potholders nearby when cooking. When spills happen when cooking, wipe them immediately.

A lot of weight

The countertops are tough and can take a lot of weight, but this is no reason to stand or sit on them. When you place a lot of weight on the edges, the countertops can easily crack, forcing you to replace them, which is expensive.

Keep heavy loads off the countertops. If you can’t, place the load at the center (not at the edges where it can easily crack the surfaces).

Soap

If you are like other homeowners, you use soap to clean your countertops. While there is nothing wrong with this, regular use of soap leads to soap accumulation. According to granite installers Rockville, excessive soap gives the countertops a murky look.

To keep the countertops in top shape, use the soap in moderation. After using it, clean all of it off.

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.

28

Mar

Common Kitchen Makeover Mistakes

A kitchen renovation requires careful planning and enough budget to make it happen. We are not going to lie if we say that renovating your kitchen can be quite expensive. For example, converting into quartz kitchen countertops can take a chunk of your kitchen renovation budget. That is why a kitchen makeover is an important investment you can make for your home.

Choosing quality items, such as granite countertops, can indeed make your kitchen attractive. A kitchen makeover can also add value to your home especially if you are planning to sell it. But more than expensive quartz kitchen tops and other state-of-the-art appliances, your kitchen’s overall functionality should also be considered as well.

An attractive and well-planned kitchen can give life to your home. However, mistakes are still common when it comes to renovating your kitchen. But these mistakes can be avoided with proper planning. Among these common mistakes in kitchen renovation are the following:

Forgetting storage space

Kitchens contain a lot of tools and other stuff – both big and small. Some kitchen items such as a blender or a food processor can be challenging to store even in your usual cupboard. That is why building extra kitchen storage space may be necessary. But sometimes, planning for ample storage space can be tricky especially for small kitchens.

On the other hand, quartz countertops with built-in storage can be expensive to make. However, it can actually help solve your kitchen storage problems, especially for small kitchen space. Moreover, building extra storage space can help make your kitchen tools accessible even the bulkiest ones. The design of your extra storage space will depend on your personal preference and kitchen requirements.

Installing a kitchen island in the wrong spot

Installing a kitchen island made by reputable granite contractors can make your kitchen attractive. You can also customize it to add extra storage for your kitchen tools. Plus, preparing and serving food can be more convenient thanks to the additional space it can provide.

However, a kitchen island can be a problem if installed in the wrong area of the kitchen. For one, it may obstruct foot traffic from one kitchen area to another. One way to solve that problem is to install a sink or a stove on the island. This will help maximize your kitchen space without affecting the kitchen’s foot traffic.

For smaller kitchens, a peninsula can be more practical than installing engineered stone countertops. More than expensive appliances and expensive countertops, your workspace should also be top of mind when planning for a kitchen renovation.

Forgetting the power of good lighting

Kitchens usually have three different lighting: general lighting, accent lighting, and task lighting. Each kitchen spot should have ample lighting so working there will be more convenient. For example, you should have enough lighting when you are preparing meals and prevent potential kitchen-related accidents.

On the other hand, some kitchen areas are illuminated by the combination of general lighting and natural lighting coming from the outdoors. Either way, ample kitchen lighting is important. Unfortunately, a lot of kitchen renovation plans forget to provide a specific strategy for proper lighting. In this case, choose lighting that suits your budget and complement your kitchen’s overall look as well.

Not monitoring your budget

As mentioned, a kitchen overhaul can be expensive depending on the materials used. A last-minute change of plans can also affect your budget so make sure to stick to your original working plan. You should also choose materials according to your kitchen renovation needs – not just for personal preference.

You can also save additional cash if you compare different kitchen materials instead of choosing only one option. Also, make sure to check samples first before buying the actual material such as tiles and countertops. More importantly, make sure to have an extra budget in case of renovation emergencies.

It is also important to consult countertop replacement companies in Rockville for your kitchen countertop needs. Kitchen renovation can be a challenging yet fulfilling task as a homeowner. More so, it can take a huge chunk of your budget that is why careful planning is needed. For your next renovation project, make sure to remember the above list so you can always stay on track.

12

Mar

What to Consider For Your Kitchen Makeover

A kitchen makeover is perhaps every homeowner’s dream. After all, it’s nice to have an attractive kitchen where you can make sumptuous meals for you, your loved ones, and your house guests. However, it can be easier said than done. For one thing, you should choose from among countertop replacement companies to help you achieve your dream kitchen.

Also, a kitchen makeover needs to have detailed planning so you will know the materials you will need and how much your estimated budget will be. That said, it is important to consider a lot of factors before proceeding to your intended kitchen makeover.

Why renovate your kitchen?

It may not be easy to remodel an entire kitchen. One of the first things to consider is finding nice granite countertops or quartz kitchen countertops to compliment the overall look of your kitchen. More than finding a nice-looking countertop, you should also take time to plan in detail the entire makeover to ensure smooth and hassle-free renovation.

A kitchen makeover can take a huge chunk of your household budget. Moreover, the entire renovation project may take weeks or even months to complete. However, having a newly-renovated kitchen can make your home lively and look more high-value. Your family and house guests will surely love your engineered stone countertops and everything else in between.

That said, a kitchen makeover can be one of the best investments you can make for your home. Without further ado, here are some things you need to think about for your kitchen remodeling:

Is it a “want” or a “need”?

First of all, there should be a reason why you are considering a kitchen makeover. Is the kitchen design outdated? Is your kitchen too small and expanding it may be necessary? Are the appliances and other kitchen tools have to be replaced? Regardless of your reason, there should be at least one valid reason to justify your intention to renovate.

One way to know your priorities is by listing all the things you like to have in your renovated kitchen. For example, you may list quartz countertops as a “must-have”. Then, ask yourself whether this item is a “need” or a “want”.

If there are other options aside from a specific item, you may consider that as well and gauge whether it’s a better choice than the other. This step will help you distinguish whether that item is worth the budget or not.

How much is your budget?

Speaking of budget, home improvement can cost you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. In the case of a kitchen makeover, it can be expensive regardless whether it’s just a simple repair or a complete overhaul.

Every homeowner wants to have a presentable kitchen, but you should also consider your budget. Otherwise, you may overspend on things you should have not spent on during the renovation process.

Among things to consider while budgeting for your kitchen renovation are the following:

  • Consider financing schemes (ex. 0% interest for 6 months, discounts if paid in full, etc.) if you are planning to buy new appliances and cabinetry.
  • Check whether you can do DIY on some kitchen items (ex. repainting your current dining table and chairs instead of completely replacing it) so you can save extra cash.
  • Decide whether you will hire a general contractor or a subcontractor, or just do the entire renovation yourself (and with other family members). Each of these options has its own set of pros and cons, so you should think about it carefully.
  • Check out home improvement publications and websites for other kitchen makeover ideas.
  • Consult a reliable quartz countertops dealer or granite installers to help you out with budgeting (especially if you are considering renovating your kitchen countertop as well).

How will your home life be without a kitchen?

Obviously, you cannot use your kitchen for the next few weeks or even months while the renovation is ongoing. This part of the renovation process should also be planned out as well.

For example, you may have to create a temporary kitchen in your backyard so you can prepare and cook your meals. Preparing meals in advance can also help – you can just reheat it in your microwave (that you can relocate somewhere in the house). Or you can offer cooking for your friends so you can eat and have some chitchat with them.

A kitchen makeover may involve finding reliable countertop replacement companies in Potomac or elsewhere. On the other hand, it also requires extensive planning – from identifying your renovation objectives, determining your budget, and making necessary arrangements while the renovation is ongoing.

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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.