12

Dec

What You Need to Know About Countertop Replacement

Even if countertop replacement can be challenging, it increases the value of your home. You can spend time researching all the countertops before you start to remodel your kitchen. By reading this guide, you are going to learn about different types of countertop materials, and how you can choose the right kitchen countertop.

You can go for quartz kitchen countertops or other natural stone countertops. Pricing will also dictate the quality and maintenance. The low-end countertops are for high-traffic use but they are less appealing with shorter lifespans.

The high-end countertops are made using attractive materials, but they need more maintenance, while some require certain cleaning materials. Find out more about it now.

The Existing Material

High-definition laminate countertops or solid ones can easily screw together in place, so they can be changed easily, especially if you just want to resell your home.

Hard stones may fall prey to cracking or pitting. So, even if it is not the easiest countertop to take out, you might want to replace the damaged stone instead of repairing it. This way, you can also enjoy having a newly installed countertop that will last even longer.

Hard Surface

These countertops are cutting-edge. It is originally created to replicate how the stone looks, and these countertops are made using resin and acrylics to create a nice surface.

They sit between laminates and real stones in the price range. This is problematic because they have unique vulnerabilities. The biggest one is that they will take heat damage from the pots and pans.

They are very easy to repair and someone with a few friends to help carry countertops might probably install them.

Warranty Protection

Most manufacturers of countertops have a warranty, which ensures that your product has no factory defects.

The most crucial warranty to check into is the warranty of fabricators. This warranty will cover countertop installation, which includes seams and sinks.

Seams can break because of the house settling, cabinets improperly installed, or the sink pulling apart from your countertop.

Plumbing

You should assume that you are replacing a tile countertop using a solid surface, like stone or an engineered composite surface like Silestone. Even if the cabinets might be in place, the sink almost always should be replaced. The only exception is when the sink is mounted under the existing stone countertop.

Replace the Cabinets

If you are going to tip out all the countertops, you might want to consider replacing the cabinets as well.

You can match new countertop cabinets instead of trying to match countertops to current labels. The majority of countertops are attached to cabinets, making them hard to detach.

You should also risk damaging countertops if you need to replace countertops as well.

Old Appliances

You should consider how your old appliances are going to blend with the new countertop. You should think of it like wearing a new outfit together with a pair of shoes. Sometimes, they can look unpleasant.

However, if appliances are new and in excellent shape, do not worry, even if you own a cooktop instead of a freestanding range. A cooktop is normally mounted on the surface and can be removed easily before you reset it in the same location. You can assume that the base cabinet is the same, which assumes the base cabinet is the same or there is no change in the size.

Structural or Smoke Damage

A kitchen fire that has caused smoke or structural damage to countertops will generally result in having to replace them.

If you need a quartz countertop installer Potomac, you can call them anytime.

22

Aug

What You Did Not Know About Kitchen Countertops

Among the countertop materials available are granite countertops, and granite is normally the most sought-after. It is beautiful, elegant, and lasts a lifetime if you compare it to other countertop materials. Most of the time, it offers numerous benefits. Being a homeowner who considers granite as an option for kitchen remodeling. It is important for you to know what you can about it. This knowledge is helpful when it comes to ensuring that you make the right choice for your lifestyle and family, and it helps you in making an informed decision regarding your investment.

There are a lot of common and popular facts about granite, and an average person does not know all of them as well. Read on.

Granite is Among the Hardest Materials to Ever Exist on Earth

You for sure knew that granite is solid and hard, but are you aware that it is among the hardest materials you will ever encounter? Granite is so hard that it comes second to diamond, which is the hardest material. Granite cannot get chipped or cracked using any substance, but you need to be careful if you have a diamond ring and you are close to the countertop because that can chip it. Granite is the toughest and hardest material you can buy for a countertop. Granite installers are going to recommend you make a heavy and hard cabinet base in order to withstand the pressure and granite countertop weight.

Granite is Comprised of Many Materials

The granite mineral composition is mainly mica, feldspar, and quartz. Other materials also make up the granite composition, and these materials determine different stone colors. For example, red or pink granite comes with a high concentration of feldspar. Dark brown or black granite has plenty of amphibole and mica.

Granite is a Little Radioactive

This is a fun fact, but you should know this because, even if it is true, it gets reduced most of the time. Granite emits some radon, but that should not scare you. The amount granite emits is less than common compared to garden soil. Mostly, the fear that is aroused by radioactive countertop is because of fact. Granite is a safe substance for the home and where you will prepare food.

The Cost Depends on the Color

The granite countertop color depends on the granite slab’s mineral composition. The most common colors of granite kitchen countertops are beige, sand, and brown. The rarest colors are red, blues, dark brown, and maroon. The mineral content of feldspar is what makes it red while a higher mica quantity gives the dark and brown color. Blue and red colors are rare, and they are very expensive. In addition, increased crystal content in granite countertops costs more. A granite countertop is a colored sand with low crystal content.

Granite is Not Totally Smooth

When people look at granite, they think it is totally smooth, but that is not completely true. There are small pits and spaces between different crystals in stone. These pits are because of the mineral called biotite, and you should expect them when you buy a natural stone, which includes granite. Some people could believe that these pits make an undesirable granite slab, but this is not the case because all-natural stone slabs come with pits.

Granite Should be Sealed

While it is durable and scratch-resistant, granite is a bit permeable to moisture unless you seal it. ideally, you should do this once a year so it stays intact.

You can contact granite countertop installers Rockville anytime 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!

21

Aug

Why Kitchen Repairs and Renovations in a Rental Property Should Be Addressed Now

If you have a rental property, it is a must that you make the necessary repairs and other improvements to attract potential tenants. After all, a nice-looking house or apartment unit can do a lot in attracting potential property renters. You can do either simple repairs or a major overhaul, depending on the need. For example, you can choose quality quartz countertops or granite countertops for your kitchen.

Speaking of which, one of the first rooms a lot of tenants would check out is the kitchen. It is where most of a tenant’s daily activities would likely take place. More so, it can influence a potential tenant’s decision to avail the property for rent. But for landlords, doing kitchen renovations may not be as easy as it seems although still achievable.

Getting started

Rental property renovations can be challenging and even expensive in some cases. That is why a lot of landlords tend to put these supposedly urgent tasks in the metaphorical back seat. The same applies to planning for a kitchen renovation. Addressing kitchen repair and renovation concerns in your rental property will benefit not only the tenants but also you as a landlord.

As mentioned, it can attract potential renters and think that the property is well-taken cared of. In effect, repairs and renovations can help in increasing your property’s market value. Most of all, addressing these concerns will prevent repairs and renovations in the future.

When planning for a repair or renovation, it can be tempting to keep up with the latest kitchen trends. One instance is choosing the right kitchen countertop such as granite countertops and other countertop options. Then again, trends come and go so it is better to choose kitchen materials that won’t easily go out of style.

Common kitchen renovation trends to avoid

Addressing kitchen repairs and renovation is important especially if you are a landlord. This is to avoid issues that can turn off a potential renter. Aside from that, it is also a reflection of you as a property owner and a property owner. However, make sure to avoid these common mistakes in renovating a rental property’s kitchen.

Using kitchen repair and construction items that are not eco-friendly

Given the increased environmental awareness these days, applying eco-friendly products can appeal especially among old and new-age millennials (around age 20s to 30s). One way is by using paint with little to none of the volatile organic compounds or VOCs. Likewise, use lightings with Energy Star label for optimum energy efficiency and conservation.

Presence of hanging pans and other kitchen utensils

Back then, it is normal to see hanging pans and pots in a household kitchen. Apparently, it makes the kitchen look homey. Apparently, times have changed and so the perception of modern homeowners. Instead of hanging pans and pots, you can have large kitchen drawers installed under quartz kitchen tops or other kitchen countertops.

Using faux wall painting finishes

For one thing, faux finishes are already things of the past. It can even turn off potential tenants. Instead, you can choose to paint with neutral shades because they are easier to maintain. You can also opt for wallpapers if you prefer to go fancy on your kitchen walls.

Things to consider in rental property kitchen renovation

Your budget will be a major factor in planning for a kitchen renovation/repair in your rental property. However, there are other things to consider before proceeding. These are the following.

Kitchen design preference

People especially potential renters have different preference when it comes to kitchen designs. For example, some tenants may prefer having engineered stone countertops while others might prefer other countertop materials. In such cases, it is better to choose a kitchen design that will be acceptable to the general public.

Material

For one, choosing the right kitchen countertop material should be taken consideration as well. It is a major part of your kitchen where durability and quality should be among the top priority. Among popular countertop materials include granite countertops and quartz kitchen countertops. There are other countertop materials available in the market today.

Appliance

For rental properties, it is better to buy electric appliances. Make sure it also suits your budget and made by trusted brands/manufacturers.

Conclusion

No matter what kind of kitchen materials you choose, you should put the future renters’ welfare on top of your list. If there are some parts of the house that need to be repaired, make sure to address it immediately to avoid worse issues in the future. Also, hire only the best countertop replacement companies in Rockville for your kitchen countertop needs.

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!

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.

04

Jun

Keep your Kitchen Organized and Clutter-Free

The kitchen is perhaps one of the busiest parts of the house. This is where most of the major activities happen in a day. Preparing and cooking food, and enjoying home-cooked meals while bonding with loved ones at the dinner table.

Kitchens have evolved from simply having a refrigerator, stove top, and other kitchen utensils. Nowadays, a lot of homeowners add quartz kitchen countertops to make their kitchen look beyond average. In fact, it’s a nice idea to plan for your kitchen makeover soon, if your budget permits.

On a side note, it may not be necessary to spend too much when planning for a kitchen makeover. Sometimes, all you need for a makeover are already there in your house. Add a little bit of resourcefulness and creativity, and you can now plan and execute your mini-kitchen makeover.

What to store

Seeing unnecessary clutter can be stressful and annoying at the same time. Organizing stuff is no easy task either. We tend to be too sentimental sometimes, that is why we end up piling up unnecessary things and result to clutter.

The same applies when attempting to fix our kitchen. For one thing, quartz countertops are often the unwilling victims of so much kitchen clutter. You can start organizing your kitchen items at this point. Here are some of the most recommended kitchen items you can keep on your granite countertops.

Canisters

Not only can you store stuff in canisters but are also great décors that can add spice to your kitchen. You can also use canisters to put napkins, small snacks, and other small kitchen items to remove unnecessary kitchen clutter.

Dish rack

If you don’t have a dishwasher, a dish rack is a must in every kitchen counter. This is where you can put newly-washed dishes and utensils to dry. On the other hand, you can still use a dish rack even if you have a dishwasher if you plan on using the latter only a few times a week.

Paper towel

Paper towels are also a must in every kitchen counter for your cleaning needs. Make sure to put it on a paper towel holder in an area that is easy to reach such as the sink.

Coffee maker

If you are a morning person who cannot start the day without coffee, it only makes sense to have a coffee maker within reach. Set up a coffee area on your engineered stone countertops and include your favorite cups, mugs, sugar and cream, and teaspoons.

Fruits and vegetable basket

There are many fruits and vegetables that cannot be refrigerated as it can affect their quality. That is why you can place them in a nice-looking bowl or basket. It can add a pop of color in your kitchen. Plus, it will encourage anyone in the house to grab a fruit to eat when you feel like it.

What you can probably store

On the other hand, there are some items that you may put on your quartz kitchen countertops. These are kitchen items that you may need sometimes but not necessarily a “must-have” in your kitchen.

Chopping board

There are a lot of chopping boards shaped in attractive designs and can be nice kitchen decorations. Unless you do a lot of chopping, you may have to store it somewhere but not on the kitchen counter.

Blender/food processor/mixers

Unless you like to make smoothies every day or cook from scratch at most times, this kitchen equipment may be stored somewhere that won’t clutter granite countertops.

Microwave/toaster

These kitchen items can be too bulky and cause clutter on your kitchen counter. Sure, you can place them there if you microwave food or toast bread often.

What you should not store

Lastly, the following items do not belong on your kitchen counter and should be placed elsewhere if you hate clutter.

Tea sets

Unless you often use fancy teacup (including that cute teapot) sets often, these should be placed inside a cabinet for future use.

Other kitchen appliances

This may include items such as food processor, electric mixer, and the like. These items can look too bulky on your kitchen counter. You can store them inside kitchen cabinets and cupboards instead when not in use.

Home décor

Picture frames and figurines do not belong in the kitchen. Place them elsewhere such as in the living room or your home office area.

Are you looking for a new kitchen counter?

Contact countertop replacement companies in Rockville. Choose from a wide variety of kitchen countertop materials that will suit your needs.

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.