24

May

Make Your Kitchen Look Bigger With These Tips

A house may not feel like one if it does not its own kitchen. It has been more a simple area in the house where grandmas and housewives would spend their time. Rather, it has become a place where families bond and share good times together. In fact, some owners treat their kitchens as the “star” of their house.

A lot of homeowners nowadays also invest their time and money to beautify their kitchen. Some chose to add quartz countertops to add elegance and functionality to their kitchens. Meanwhile, some opted to upgrade their kitchen appliances and added some decors here and there.

However, not all houses have a large interior space. More so, some houses have small kitchens that are already too cramped to even accommodate granite countertops anymore. This should not discourage you from doing something with your kitchen. In fact, you can make your kitchen look bigger.

But how, you may ask. Fortunately, you won’t have to tear down your kitchen walls. If you live in a stand-alone house, a kitchen renovation won’t be much of a problem. But if you live in an apartment, make sure to seek permission from your landlord for any renovation you will do in your unit.

The key here is how you are going to work on the available space. Hiring countertop replacement companies may be an option. However, it depends on your kitchen makeover goals. If you want to look for a quartz countertops dealer, then go ahead and plan for your kitchen renovation.

Without further ado, here are tips in making your kitchen look bigger (and more pleasant, too!)

Choose your color scheme

Experts advise against using darker shades in a room. For one thing, it can make a room gloomy and lifeless. Also, darker-colored rooms can make any room look cramped. That said, consider repainting your kitchen walls using pale or neutral colors like white, light gray, light yellow, or beige.

Light-colored walls can make a room look airy, light, and spacious. If necessary, consider repainting your wooden cabinets and cupboards with a similar shade to complete the kitchen’s overall look. As much as possible, be consistent with the color theme down to the furnishings and utensils.

Open up your cabinets and cupboards

Improving the color theme can make the kitchen look more welcoming. Next is to further enlarge your kitchen space. One trick is to replace closed cabinet doors with glass-front ones. It can trick your eyes and make the kitchen look more spacious than before.

On the other hand, you can also opt for open shelving. However, it may not be applicable for households with small children or pets. Nonetheless, opening up your cabinets and cupboards can help create the illusion of a wider space. Try adding a runner rug and some mirrors within the kitchen space, too.

However, this trick may not be as effective on cabinets with darker colors. In that case, you may want to replace or repaint them using a lighter color. If you don’t like using transparent glass for the cabinets, opt for opaque glass instead. The latter can still reflect light and create an illusion of space and brightness.

Focus on height

Avoid bulky-looking cabinets and countertops and opt for slim-designed ones. You can contact granite contractors and ask if they can customize your countertop to be less bulky. As for cabinets, choose ones that are taller-looking to make the ceiling appear higher. Add quartz countertops as a center island that can serve as an extension of your kitchen work area.

Taller cabinets are not only for aesthetic appeal – it’s practical, too. It means an additional storage area for your kitchen utensils and tools. Plus, it is a great addition for smaller kitchens because it can utilize the limited space you have. Add decors like framed photos near the ceiling to make it look as if the room is wide and spacious enough.

Pay attention to lighting

As a finishing touch, focus on your kitchen lighting. Opt for pendant lights which can direct the eyes towards the ceiling. Also, choose appliances and kitchen décor with shiny surfaces like stainless steel.

This can reflect natural light and make the room look brighter and wider. Choose wider windows to let natural light come through the kitchen. Add curtains to make the room look welcoming and airy.

These are some of the best tips to make a small kitchen look bigger. For your countertop needs, look for the best granite companies in Rockville.

15

May

Facts About Quartz Countertops

A lot of people believe that having kitchen countertops at home is just for the “well-off” ones. It is a fact that countertop installation can be heavy on the budget. However, it depends on the material and add-ons included during the installation process. One of the most popular countertops is quartz kitchen countertops.

Choosing the best countertop for your kitchen can be a daunting task. For one, you need to consider your budget and kitchen space. Quartz countertops are among the popular countertop choices. On the other hand, granite countertops and engineered stone countertops are also great options.

For now, we are going to focus on countertops made from quartz. Here’s what you need to know about this popular countertop material.

Trivia bites about quartz

Quartz is more than just attractive stone material. It is a popular countertop that offers several features and benefits. It is durable, non-porous, and easy to maintain and clean. Among other things you need to know about this material include the following:

You may have walked on quartz without you realizing it.

Most of us know that quartz is used as a countertop material. However, quartz is also used in flooring for airports, shopping malls, and even luxury boutique brands. Back then, slabs measured around 12×20 inches. Nowadays, it has increased in size and has been used other than a countertop material

Quartz is made from sustainable materials.

In case you are not aware yet, quartz is not made from 100 percent natural stone. In fact, the majority of the quartz countertop materials are actually made from quarrying by-products and not from natural quartz itself. That is why quartz is also referred to as an engineered stone.

A type of quartz material is connected with cheese.

Perhaps you have heard about Cambria quartz countertops. You may be interested to know that the company (owned by the Davis family) that produces this type of countertop also produces cheese for popular brands like Kraft Foods.

Quartz vs. Granite

Quartz and granite are among the most popular countertop materials. Each of them has its pros and cons, so you choose one that will suit your kitchen countertop needs.

On one hand, granite is composed of stones including quartz, mica, feldspar, and other trace minerals. It is 100 percent natural stone that is cut into slabs and polished for a fine and shiny finish. It comes in different color options, by which granite material is widely known for.

Quartz, on the other hand, is not made from 100 percent natural quartz. Rather, it’s made of a mix of natural quartz and polymer resins. Still, it looks like real stone and homeowners can customize its design. In other words, choosing among quartz kitchen tops can be easier.

As for the price, quartz countertop installation can be more expensive than granite. The former can cost as much as $5,000. The latter, on the other hand, can cost about $4,000. Nevertheless, you should rely on professional countertop replacement companies for the installation process.

Quartz countertop maintenance

Maintenance-wise, quartz is easier to clean than granite. Stain marks may occur on granite countertops. Resealing may also be needed on granite countertops.

With quartz, cleaning can be a simple task – soapy water and a clean cloth are enough. Here are some tips in the proper cleaning of a quartz countertop.

  • Clean any spills as soon as possible. Even if quartz is non-porous, it is still best to address stains to prevent the occurrence of marks. At the same time, you can maintain its appearance at all times.
  • For hardened, crusty messes, you can chip it off using a plastic scraper. Spray the stain with warm water so you can scrape it easier. Avoid using metal scrapers as it can damage the countertop material.
  • Use vinegar solution for hard-to-remove stain residue. Sometimes, simply wiping it with water and soap may not be enough. Mix distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray on the stained area, let it sit for a while, and then wipe using a kitchen sponge.

Choose the best countertops

Countertops are a great addition in every home. More importantly, you should choose one that can last for years and enhance the aesthetic value. Find the best countertop replacement companies in Potomac today and check out their sample works.

24

Apr

How to Improve your Kitchen on A Budget

Many homeowners consider their kitchens as one of the most important parts of their house. This area of the house is the center of daily activities: mostly preparing and cooking fresh, home-cooked meals. It is where families and loved ones bond over sumptuous meals and refreshing drinks. Kitchens are also worth investing for, that is why a lot of homeowners hire countertop replacement companies to take care of their countertop installation.

Investing in a kitchen countertop

It is a known fact that kitchen countertops can be expensive. More so, countertops such as quartz countertops or granite countertops are usually perceived as “only for well-off families”. Sure, it can cost you some cash. However, choosing these types of countertops can be one of the best decisions you can ever make.

These countertops are generally easy to maintain and available in classic designs and colors. You can also hire professional installers to install your kitchen countertop. Just make sure that the countertop replacement companies have positive reviews from actual customers.

Improving your kitchen on a budget

On the other hand, there are still other ways to improve your kitchen even if you have a limited budget. Sure, having quality quartz kitchen tops is a nice “must-have” in every home. However, not all homeowners prefer quartz or granite as countertop material although these have obvious benefits among users.

Nevertheless, home improvement need not be too expensive after all. Kitchen renovations are usually done in stages, or just renovate which part of the kitchen needs to be renovated. Here are some kitchen renovation tips for those on a budget:

  1. Repaint.

This is one cheaper way to give your kitchen a refreshing look. Repaint the kitchen walls, the cabinet, and cupboard, or the dining table and chairs. If you are planning to sell your home, it is important to know which paint colors will most likely appeal to them. Make sure to have the complete tools when you plan to repaint your kitchen.

  1. Replace.

This may be necessary if the kitchen equipment is already outdated or has incurred damage. For example, it may be time to replace your refrigerator if it’s not cooling enough already. Or if some of the kitchen tiles are already chipped.

Even replacing broken cabinet handles or the faucet can make a difference in improving your kitchen’s overall look. You can find the best kitchen tiles, hardware, or equipment replacements online, or you can consult professional installers near you.

  1. Decorate.

This may seem to be an easy thing to do, but adding accessories to your kitchen can make a huge difference. Add fresh flowers, fruits, placemats or colorful vases on your dinner table. If you can, install colorful backsplashes to your sink area to brighten up your kitchen. Change your outlet wall plates into ones with various designs (available online or in nearby hardware stores).

  1. Lighten up.

Upgrade your kitchen lighting, as it can help brighten up your kitchen area. Some lighting fixtures have unique designs that can enhance a room’s appearance. You can find a lot of them online or in hardware stores.

Finding a kitchen contractor

Kitchen remodeling is a major investment for every home. If you want to change your countertop, you should call professional granite countertop installers to do the job. Take note of the following when planning for a kitchen renovation:

  1. Create a plan.

Before calling up a quartz countertops dealer, make sure you have a plan for how you want to renovate your kitchen. Also, determine what your needs really are as well as your target budget.

  1. Ask all the important questions.

Once you have found your prospect contractors, make sure to know about them. Have they been in the business for years or even decades? What are their services offered? What is the usual feedback about them? These are some of the crucial questions you need to know about your future contractor.

  1. Agree on the payment scheme.

Before proceeding on the payment, make sure you have a contract. This is to ensure that you get only what you pay for and the best services from your chosen contractor. Also, the contract should also contain the work plan including the schedule and time and other contractor details. It should also contain the payment schedule including down payment and the balance payment schedule.

Call a professional kitchen contractor today

Contact the best granite companies in Rockville today for your kitchen countertop needs. Get the best from the professionals in the field.

Why Engineered Stone Countertops are a Good Addition to your Kitchen

A kitchen countertop is a great addition to your kitchen area. It can serve as an extension area when preparing and cooking your meals. High-quality countertops can also serve as your extra storage area. There are a lot of kitchen countertop materials you can choose from, such as engineered stone countertops.

What is an “engineered stone” countertop?

Technically, “engineered stone” is a term that refers to the combination of resin and crushed stone. The former serves as a binder that holds the material together and is specially made to form a durable and usable countertop material.

The crushed stone and resin binder are combined using pressure and heat method. The process results to a slab added pigments for coloration and polished for gloss or matte finishing. Engineered stone countertops are non-porous, which is a big plus if you are looking for a good countertop.

Countertops made from an engineered stone may also have quartz material in it. Quartz kitchen countertops are also popular. However, a lot of quartz countertops are not 100 percent quartz. Rather, some of these quartz kitchen tops have a combination of other materials other than quartz.

Benefits and downsides

Countertops made from engineered stone have its set of advantages other than aesthetic appeal. Among these are the following:

  1. Resembles natural stone

A slab of engineered stone resembles real stone slab material, including texture and color. However, engineered stone offers different tones and colors, unlike natural stone. Plus, it feels like natural stone, so it is also a good option if you are a fan of natural stone material.

  1. Durable and can last longer

Engineered stone is meant to last and won’t scratch that easily. It is also heat-resistant, so you won’t have to worry about leaving scorch marks on the countertop. It also won’t easily crack and can maintain its natural luster for many years. Still, it is advisable to use a chopping board when cutting up vegetables and other food.

  1. Ease of maintenance

Because engineered countertops are non-porous, clean-up is supposed to be a breeze. Non-porous materials mean bacteria and dirt cannot seep through that can damage the countertop in the long run. Plus, engineered countertops are waterproof so you can simply wipe out any oil, any liquid, and dirt on its surface and prevent staining it.

On the other hand, engineered countertops also have its disadvantages. Among these are the following:

  1. It can be expensive.

Although engineered countertops may vary in cost, it can be expensive nonetheless. It will depend on the manufacturer as well as the process involved. After all, it is not just a simple countertop made from cheap materials.

  1. It won’t replace real stone.

Then again, it depends on your personal taste. Although engineered countertops largely resemble real stone, it won’t be the “real” thing – unless this is a big deal for you.

  1. Dirt can still collect on its seams.

Apparently, engineered stone slabs contain visible seams along the countertop. These seams can still collect dirt and food remnants which can result in potential contamination. Plus, it can be hard to clean these kinds of dirt when left ignored for a long time.

Is an engineered countertop a good choice for you?

Whatever your choice is, it is important to consider your options carefully. A good kitchen countertop is a worthwhile investment for your home. That said, choosing an engineered kitchen countertop is a great choice as well. Just make sure to find the best among the bunch at a quartz countertops dealer only.

Here are some tips that can help you decide when going countertop-shopping:

  1. Choose the engineered stone surface type you need.

Aesthetics will be a major deciding factor. However, it is important to choose one that you really need. Also, the material should also complement your kitchen including the pattern, color, and texture.

  1. Ask for price quotes.

Engineered stone can vary depending on the color, pattern, and other process involved. Some may actually offer lower costs unlike other manufacturers, so do your own research.

Get only the best high-quality countertops for your kitchen

Choosing the best countertop for your kitchen can be a tedious task. Once you find the right kitchen countertop, make sure to contact only the best countertop replacement companies in Rockville.

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.

19

Mar

Planning a DIY Kitchen Renovation? Read This First

New kitchen design trends come out every year. Nothing beats classic designs, but it can be nice to refresh your kitchen’s look once in a while. For example, you can have your old countertop changed into a brand-new one. In that case, you should choose among the best countertop replacement companies near your area.

Renovating your kitchen can be challenging yet fulfilling, especially when you see the finishing results. But simply replacing your old countertop into new quartz kitchen countertops or even hiring granite contractors can be expensive. On the contrary, a little bit of resourcefulness and creativeness can do the trick.

How much do kitchen renovations usually cost?

One of the most popular home improvements a lot of homeowners invest in is renovating the kitchen. However, a kitchen renovation – whether just replacing your old countertop into granite countertops, or a complete makeover – requires careful budgeting on your part.

According to a report by the National Association of Realtors, the average cost of renovating a 210-square foot kitchen can cost around $65,000. While it can take a toll on your budget, having a kitchen renovation can be one of the best decisions you will ever make.

The good news is that you can still be able to do a kitchen renovation. To do that, you can simply follow these steps so you can achieve your dream kitchen eventually.

How to plan for a kitchen renovation

  1. Create a “master plan”.

The first stage is coming up with a comprehensive plan. This includes all the nitty-gritty details of the entire kitchen makeover – from choosing the best quartz kitchen tops and reliable quartz countertop contractors around, down to your refrigerator’s relocation spot.

While replacing some kitchen items may be necessary during the renovation, some can stay as is. For example, keeping your current kitchen walls will save you thousands of dollars from tearing it out as well as messing up your electrical and plumbing systems.

  1. Decide whether to keep your kitchen items or to buy a new one.

It depends on your requirement. For example, you may want to consider changing into engineered stone countertops and replace your current one. Otherwise, you can keep those you can still use, including kitchen appliances, flooring, cabinetry, and lighting fixtures.

  1. Repair or add a creative touch when necessary.

There are some kitchen items that may need replacing – say, an outdated kitchen flooring. But in some cases, you can unleash your creative side. For example, instead of replacing your entire dining table and chair set, you can repaint it with fresher and livelier color. The same can apply when updating your kitchen cabinets and cupboards as well.

Other DIY kitchen renovation tips

Kitchen renovation can be expensive, but there are many ways to save extra cash. One way is to do some things on your own. Of course, with a little help of research and your trusted and knowledgeable friends. Here are some other tips you should consider when doing the renovation yourself:

  1. Set your budget.

Before starting with the project, it is important to know how much you are willing to spend. Consider the kitchen items and fixtures that need to be replaced – say, new granite countertops — as well as those that will only require repairs.

  1. Schedule when you are going to do the renovation.

Scheduling a renovation during the holiday season can be impractical because you will be preparing and cooking a lot during that time. In this case, it is ideal to schedule renovation months before a special event such as Thanksgiving or a birthday party. On the other hand, some homeowners schedule theirs during spring or summertime so they can have the chance to do picnics in their backyard.

  1. Create a makeshift kitchen.

While the renovation is ongoing, it is important to have a temporary kitchen. Relocate your refrigerator or microwave elsewhere that won’t hamper the renovation process. You can also use paper plates or plastic cups and utensils in case the kitchen sink may be inaccessible for a while.

  1. Check whether permits are necessary.

Permits may be necessary if there will be changes on your electrical or plumbing system. These permits may vary from area to area, so it is best to do your research.

Finding a reliable kitchen renovation company

Doing the renovation on your own can save you thousands of dollars and you can do it in your own time. But if you are planning to replace your countertops, it may not be bad to seek professional help from the best quartz countertop contractors in Rockville or elsewhere near your area.

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.