21

Mar

Different Kinds of Granite Finishes

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

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

Polished

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

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

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

Honed

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

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

Leathered Finish

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

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

Flamed

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

Brushed

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

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

22

Feb

How to Pair Countertops with Gray Cabinets

Countertops are an excellent way to upgrade your kitchen and keep a lot of function, but it is better when they pair well with other kitchen design aspects. They are made of different materials and look better compared to others. In case you are battling between at least two countertop options, you should consider pairing them using the cabinets as part of the decision process.

When you go to a quartz countertops dealer, you will notice the advantages of having it installed in your kitchen. The gray and white combination provides an excellent match for dressing up the kitchen to how you like it. You can make things simple by adding more white and gray tones. Read on to learn more.

Match Accent Countertops

Countertops with a white background mix well with almost any color of kitchen cabinets. In addition, combining these colors make the space look larger than it really is. That is why white countertops work well in kitchens that are smaller. However, before you consider a white countertop, it is recommended that you choose a material that works best for your current lifestyle. For instance, if there are young children in your house, quartz might be a better option compared to choosing granite or another solid surface.

Black Countertops and Gray Kitchen Cabinets

On the opposite end of the color spectrum, black countertops are an excellent option when it comes to pairing with gray kitchen cabinets. With white, there are many kinds of countertops that can be bought in black, which include quartz, laminates, and natural stones like granite.

You can choose a black countertop or something with white flecks, metallic elements, or gray. In order to prevent your kitchen from looking very dark, there needs to be enough natural lighting, and flooring and wall coloring in a tone that is contrasting like light-colored or white wood.

Incorporate the Colors

If you want to incorporate color in the kitchen, you can choose gray cabinets that are paired with black countertops. Gray and black are chic colors that give your kitchen a very interesting look.

You can also choose dark brown cabinets and a white countertop. This look can be more rustic for your kitchen. You might want to choose a black countertop with gray cabinets for a whole different look. It is going to cut down how much light that comes into the kitchen, but also creates a modern look.

Monochromatic

In case you like tone-on-tone designs, matching countertop hues to the cabinets gives the kitchen an adaptable and cohesive style. The monochromatic look allows colorful accents to shine which includes décor items, appliances, wall paint, and more. The trick to achieving this look is choosing a color, and it is recommended that your kitchen cabinet door color is darker by one or two shades.

Granite Countertops and Kitchen Cabinets

Granite countertops already reigned as among the most popular choices. With superior durability and color variety, it is difficult to find a versatile countertop option. Regardless of your kitchen style, you will easily find granite that blends in well, even with gray kitchen cabinets.

You can combine gray and white, which is a granite option when you want to pair it with gray cabinets. Granite countertops in blue, black, brown, or even green shades can be an excellent match. You can combine it with the metallic accent you prefer for a look that is more cohesive and easy on the eyes. This way, you can work better in your kitchen.

Contact quartz countertop contractors Potomac anytime you want to change your kitchen countertops.

14

Nov

Interesting Facts About Quartz Countertops

Quartz kitchen countertops are becoming more popular in the industry of home remodeling and show no possibility of abating. Some experts are saying that its popularity is more than granite countertops. A lot of homeowners do not have the vaguest idea when it comes to quartz countertops.

If you see it everywhere, a standard kitchen countertop with black granite is not the only option you have. Designers opt for durable, versatile, and aesthetically pleasing countertop options. There are mind-boggling options available and you can easily be forgiven if you find it hard to make a decision.

In case you want to discover more about quartz countertops, you should read this article until the end.

Not 100% Natural Stone

Quartz countertops are made of ground quartz – a natural stone. However, the countertops are not 100% natural stone. It combines resins and pigments in order to create a finished product.

You should not allow that to fool you. Even if this natural stone is not pure, quartz countertops are still durable and the style is what most homeowners want.

Quartz Can be Bought in Different Colors

Quartz counters are made of 97% ground quartz and 3% colors, resin by weight, and polymer.

While these countertops are made of resin and stone blend, the manufacturer makes almost any texture, color, and pattern you desire.

Quartz countertops can appear like granite or marble or nothing else. A lot of manufacturers are offering great contemporary color schemes.

While manufacturing, recycled materials can also be added to expand the available color choices. You will find a countertop that will resemble natural stone, but you will not find the hues in nature.

They are not Heat-Resistant

Quartz countertops are not resistant to heat. The resin pigments are mixed into the material and they can react to high heat presence. Such as heat from a hot pan, which leaves behind color damage. The countertop is intact but is not going to look pretty.

Quartz is Environmentally Friendly

Quartz is sustainable that does not require a lot of energy to produce. Since it is durable, it will last a long time without having to replace it.

In addition, since quartz does not require sealing like other natural stone countertops, it does not need toxic materials to maintain it. Therefore, you will be able to feel good about the countertop you choose without sacrificing function or style.

Quartz Needs Minimal Maintenance

Quartz is a product that has been engineered, and it is not natural stone. Since resin is used in making it, it is non-porous and does not require sealing. You just have to wipe it down every day.

You can remove surface stains easily using a cleaning agent. However, keep in mind that you should not use harsh cleaning products and scouring pads since they can damage the quartz and resin bond.

Quartz has a Lot of Style Options

Quartz comes in different styles and colors, so you will be able to find an option that can fit into the design of your home. Regardless if you want something bold or classic, a quartz countertop is perfect for your bathroom or kitchen.

Lately, there are quartz countertops that resemble different materials, like granite or marble. Therefore, if you like the natural look of natural stone but want the durability of quartz and easy maintenance, quartz countertops are ideal.

Quartz is Extremely Hard

It rates 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, which is why quartz is favored when it comes to engineered stone countertops.

You can contact quartz countertops dealer Rockville anytime to have it installed.

 

 

 

 

21

Sep

Why the Best Countertops for Baking are Quartz

Kitchen workspaces for pastries are important for individuals who are passionate about baking. Quartz countertops give you an appropriate space when it comes to pursuing your home baking as a career or hobby. Quartz countertops are very versatile and attractive, but they are economical and low-risk.

The countertop, flooring, fixtures, lighting, fittings, and finishes are among the top factors that can contribute to memories created in the kitchen. Kitchen countertops are an important and exceptional component while it functions at the center of kitchen activities. Quartz is an excellent material that is resistant and strong to heat, which makes it ideal for chopping, mixing, baking, and frying. You will learn more about it now.

It is Not Porous

Quartz countertops are now more popular in recent years and it is not surprising. They are durable and beautiful, and taking care of them is easy. However, one of the best features of quartz is that it is not porous. That means it will not absorb any spills or stains like other kinds of countertops, which makes it easy to maintain cleanliness.

If you love to bake, it is ideal to use quartz. It is cool and smooth, so it is the perfect surface for rolling dough in your bakery kitchen. Since it does not absorb liquids or food particles, it is easy to keep it clean. Regardless if you are a professional baker or you only enjoy making, go for quartz.

Acid-Resistant

Lemon bars and using acidic materials is a common baking recipes, therefore using a quartz countertop prevents damage in case there are spills. Baking ingredients are safe whenever you use an acid-resistant quartz countertop. Nevertheless, your countertop should always be regularly cleaned no matter what type of baking ingredients you are using.

Low-maintenance

At the same time, since they are poreless, routine maintenance and cleanup have become simpler. You can wipe down the countertops using a damp cloth and then you are done.

With quartz countertops, they are never a seal you can see. Unlike the more porous countertops such as marble, quartz countertops do not need harsh chemical seals. Your countertops can live and breathe without a yearly checkup that drains your bank account and time.

Durable

Quartz countertops are among the most durable surfaces that you can have for your kitchen. They are made using the hardest minerals you will find, which means they are resistant to stains and scratches. Durability is crucial for any layout in the kitchen baking, but it is mainly important for people who love to bake.

If you are always rolling the dough or working with chocolate and sugar, you will require a countertop that is able to stand up to wear and tear. The truth is, that quartz is durable that it is normally used in commercial kitchens. In case it can stand up to professional kitchen demands, it can definitely stand up to baking projects you love to do.

It Can Keep its Temperature

A consistent and dependable temperature is important when you bake. Quartz countertops have a consistent temperature since they do not conform to temperature changes in the kitchen. When you bake, you do not have to worry about the dough sticking after a rollout due to cold temperatures. Your cookies are going to cool right away, and the butter will not melt before the time you need it to. This is very helpful and any baker will love this about having quartz countertops.

You can contact quartz countertop contractors Potomac anytime once you are ready to have them installed and make your kitchen ready for a lot of baking.

 

 

18

Jul

Reasons Why Quartz Countertops are High-Quality

Quartz countertops are becoming more popular. However, the drawback is that it is expensive and its closest rival is granite.

The primary reason for the high price of quartz countertops is because it is manufactured inside the factory made from raw source and then they should be processed and cut into chips. After these chips have gone through the milling process, they will then be sent to distributors who will ship them around the world. The retailers purchase these chips and resell them, sometimes selling them multiple times the cost of producing them. Therefore, why is quartz pricey? The answer is that it is a manufactured mineral and it can be remade in case you have to.

Cost of Installing Quartz Countertops

The installation cost is about $70 to $100 for every square foot, but some factors can impact how new countertops cost. You are going to pay high prices if you want countertops that are mainly for faucets and sinks, like those or with custom edging. If you want an average quartz size for your kitchen countertop, you should be ready to pay about $4,500 for installation and materials.

It is an excellent idea to hire a countertop contractor in your local area so they can check the space before starting out. A pro who can see the space in person is important if you want to receive the right quote.

Trade Tariffs

Since the majority of materials are made overseas, trade tariffs imposed during springtime have multiple costs. For instance, quartz that was imported from China, which is mainly among the lower-end varieties had a price increase of about 300%. This is very high and it really affects the price of quartz.

High-Demand

Unlike marble and granite, quartz does not need sealing. This feature made quartz very popular among homeowners and similar to other popular items, there is a high demand for this.

The law and demand supply dictates that if there is a higher demand, the higher the price will be which is why it is expensive.

Installation

Due to lack of porosity, quartz is dense and heavy. Cabinetry or vanities should be leveled prior to installation, and a section placed directly on the cabinets should be supported securely. If you want to maximize the sleek look, the seams should be matched unobtrusively. These are the things that make quartz countertop installation a difficult project that requires the services of an equipped and qualified professional contractor.

Versatile

Quartz has a lot of styles, colors, finishes, as well as edge treatments. In terms of thickness, the stone is running from 3/8” to 11/4”. Obviously, if there is a thick countertop, the pricier it will be.

Due to the versatility of quartz, you should research and look for one that is going to be ideal for your application. If you are unsure of the one that is going to look best, you should get what the professional is saying.

Customization

In case you are looking for an unusual countertop width or shape, or maybe custom cutouts in order to accommodate the appliances you own or a special feature such as a bar sink? They are doable with quartz but it will be expensive.

Uniqueness

Quartz countertops have a distinct place among the trends of today. In the era of people not wanting to miss out, the popularity of this kind of countertop has caused a demand that normally goes over the supply. This has the tendency to drive the costs high.

You can contact quartz countertop Montgomery County MD for the best contractors and deals.

 

16

Jun

Mistakes to Avoid When You Have a Quartz Kitchen Countertop

The majority of homeowners still see kitchen remodeling as one of the most important home renovation aspects. Based on statistics, one in every household does a kitchen remodel yearly.

The most important surface in your home is the countertop, and it is the main feature that homeowners want to replace. They contact countertop replacement services to have their quartz countertop installed. However, there are mistakes that some people make when it comes to their countertop. If you are planning to get quartz countertops, you should know what not to do in order to properly maintain it. Find out what you must not do so that it will last for a long time.

Relying Too Much on Harsh Cleaners

Harsh cleaners loaded with chemicals do not mix well with quartz countertops. It is important to stay away from alkaline and acidic cleaners because they can weaken the bonds between quartz and resin and can damage the surface layer over time. While it hampers the sealant’s efficacy too, the countertop can become prone to easily getting stained.

You Do Not Wipe Spills Right Away

If you allow any type of spill to sit on your countertop, specifically an acidic solution like vinegar or wine, for a long time on your countertop, it is going to penetrate the stone. This will result in staining. Quartz is normally marketed to be stain-resistant. It is crucial to remember that the engineered stone is not stain-proof.

The best way for you to prevent stains is to make sure they do not happen at first. However, if you spill something, make sure that you clean up the mess right away. You can take a dish cloth together with warm soapy water in order to clean up spills.

Using Pads that are Too Abrasive

Some homeowners like to use abrasive cleaning pads that can starch and dull quartz countertops. You need to avoid hard-bristled brushes, metal scourers, and scrubbing pads. You should use a gentle approach, ideally a soft rug for cleaning and clean cotton cloth for drying. This way, the quartz surface will remain beautiful and shiny for a long time.

You Place Hot Items on the Countertop Directly

Even if quartz countertops have heat-resistant properties, you should not assume that it is immune to heat. If the temperature is over 300 degrees F, it can damage your countertop.

You should not place hot pans or pots on the countertop because extreme heat can be damaging to the resin of your countertop’s surface, which results in discoloration. Discoloration, because heat damage is irreversible, and you would have to replace the entire slab of stone to remove the damage.

You Cut Food Directly on the Countertop

Most of the quartz slabs are NSF-approved. They can be used for food preparation. However, with the right force, using your knife directly on the countertop’s surface to cut and chop ingredients can cause scratches. The small scratches and nicks will gradually dull the surface and erode the beauty of your countertop.

Placing Your Sizzling Hot Utensils on the Countertop

Yes, quartz countertops are resistant to heat by nature. However, placing sizzling hot utensils on the countertop all the time will cause discoloration on the countertop. At the same time, it becomes more prone to cracks. Before placing your sizzling hot utensils on the countertop, you should put a tray or cloth where you can place your utensils so that they do not directly go on the quartz surface.

You can contact the quartz countertop installer Rockville for your kitchen countertop replacement.

12

Sep

Quartz vs. Corian Countertops: Which is Better?

When it comes to kitchen countertops, there are so many options to choose from. From quartz kitchen countertops, granite countertops, and many more, there are a lot of countertop options that will surely suit your household’s kitchen needs. We all know how our kitchen plays an important role in our everyday lives. Whether you are a kitchen expert or simply love watching your mom cook, the kitchen can create good memories for all people in all walks of life.

When constructing your kitchen area, one of the first things you need to consider is the countertop. As mentioned, there are a lot of countertop materials to choose from. However, one of the most popular ones is quartz and solid surface (Corian). This article will discuss the pros and cons of each countertop material and which one suits your kitchen and lifestyle better.

Getting started

In choosing a kitchen countertop, you should not only consider how good it would look in your kitchen. Rather, you should also think about the benefits the kitchen countertop can give you. Is it scratch-resistant? Non-porous? Easy to clean and maintain? Durable and comes in different designs and colors? Has high resale value?

These are some things you need to consider if you are torn between choosing a quartz kitchen tops or a Corian countertop. Of course, the cost will also play an important role in choosing the right countertop for your kitchen. Also, it is essential to find reliable countertop replacement companies to get the best countertop materials in the market.

All about quartz countertops

As mentioned, quartz countertops are one of the most popular countertop materials used in many kitchens all over. However, quartz is considered relatively new as a kitchen countertop material. It is usually made of about 95 percent natural quartz and the rest is made from resin.

In other words, a quartz countertop is a combination of natural and man-made stone material. Yet, quartz is considered a high-end countertop material as compared to others such as wood, tile, and laminate.

As mentioned, a quartz countertop is made of around 5 to 10 percent resins which are either cement or polymeric-based. There are also some companies that use vegetable oil as part of the bonded resin material. Meanwhile, the remaining 95 percent is made from quartz and other materials such as glass and marble.

As for installation, a quartz countertop needs special tools to install. It can be challenging to install a quartz countertop on your own because of the special tools needed. But if you still want to install the countertop on your own, you can opt for ready-to-install countertop sheets.

A quartz countertop also has a high heat resistance and also scratch-resistant. However, it is better to avoid doing certain kitchen habits that can cause scratching and other sorts of damage to the countertop. Sealing is not usually required as it is non-porous due to the bonded resin materials.

All about Corian countertops

Corian is a popular brand name for solid surface countertops. Like quartz, Corian is also a mix of different minerals (about 66 percent) and resin material (33 percent). It does look like stone or granite countertops at first look. Solid surface material first appeared in the market back in the late 1960s by the company DuPont.

Aside from Corian, solid surface countertops are also known in other names such as Formica, Swanstone, and Avonite. Solid surface countertop materials can be easily cut using power saws. Even DIY junkies can install these types of countertops on their own, unlike quartz that need special equipment and tools to install.

On the contrary, Corian/solid surface countertops may not be as heat and scratch-resistant as quartz. In case of any presence of damage, you can use sandpaper to remove any stains on its surface. But like quartz, sealing may not be required for solid surface countertops as well.

Which is better?

Between the two, your choice will depend on the factors that you think are more important than others. If you are looking for a luxurious-looking countertop, both can provide thanks to its elegant construction and material used.

If you are looking for a more heavy-duty, heat and scratch-resistant countertop, then quartz may be a better choice. For a contemporary look, a solid surface countertop is a good option as well.

At the end of the day, both are generally good countertop options. It will also go down to your personal preference, budget, and household needs. You can hire countertop replacement companies in Rockville for your kitchen countertop requirements. Contact one today!

05

Aug

What to Consider Before Replacing a Countertop

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

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

Getting started

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

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

Different countertop material options

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

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

Granite

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

Marble

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

Laminate

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

Solid surface

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

How to choose a countertop

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

Budget

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

Maintenance level

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

Alternatives

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

Rely on countertop experts

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

20

Jun

Basic Kitchen Safety Tips You Should Always Remember

Perhaps the kitchen is one of the busiest parts of the house. It has gone beyond being a simple place to cook food and store utensils and other appliances. Nowadays, a lot of homeowners make an extra effort to make their kitchen eye-catching.

For one, there are some who prefer to install quartz countertops on their kitchen. Others would prefer granite countertops that can complement the overall look of their kitchen.

Keeping safe in the kitchen

Practicing kitchen safety is just as important as keeping it clean. When it comes to safety, it does not only refer to preventing yourself from getting cut by a knife. Rather, it should also ensure food safety and avoiding health problems due to food mishandling.

Food mishandling or improperly using kitchen tools can cause you and your loved ones harm. That is why it is important to practice safety measures in the kitchen. After all, your home should be a safe place and that includes your kitchen and knowing the right safety measures.

Food preparation and safety tips

Preparing food is a crucial process. It is meant to be enjoyed and provide nourishment to our bodies and not the reason to be sent to the emergency room. Here are some important tips to remember when preparing food in your kitchen.

Wash your hands.

We already heard about this since we were children, but there is a good reason why we should follow this simple rule. In a day, we have most likely touched hundreds of items at home. These items may have germs and bacteria that are invisible to the naked eye.

Before you know it, you may have contaminated the food you have prepared. Aside from washing hands before preparing food, wash your hands also after handling certain foods like eggs or raw meat. Wipe your quartz kitchen tops also before and after preparing food to prevent cross-contamination.

Wash fruits, vegetables, and meat.  

It is important to wash fresh fruits and vegetables by putting them under running water for a few minutes. This is to remove any remnants of pesticides and even wax on fruits such as apples. Likewise, you should clean your engineered stone countertops too that came into contact with the produce and the meat.

Store leftover foods properly.

One major causes of food poisoning are due to improper food storage. Make sure to know which foods should be stored in the refrigerator to prolong shelf life. This includes milk, foods with mayonnaise and eggs, and salad dressing among a few. Let hot foods cool down a little bit before storing it in the fridge. This helps prevent the growth of bacteria in the food.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Check expiration dates in food packaging. Some food even has signs of molds even if the expiration date is still three days before. Meat that has been in the freezer for more than six months, and rotting fruits and vegetables – you can simply throw them away to be safe.

Use different cutting boards for each food group.

Avoid using granite countertops directly to cut food. Not only can it damage the material but also cause cross contamination. Also, the FDA recommends using separate cutting boards for meat and poultry, and fruits and vegetables. If using the same board is inevitable, prepare the fruits or vegetable first before using it for meats. Just make sure to wash the board with soap and hot water every after use.

Handling kitchen tools and equipment safety tips

It is also important to practice safety when using kitchen tools and equipment to prevent injuring yourself during food preparation. Here are some tips for handling kitchen tools safely.

Be careful when using a knife.

Getting accidentally cut by a knife can be painful and may even affect how you work in the kitchen. Make it a habit to cut away from the body and in a downward position. Do not rush in cutting like those show-off chefs on TV (they are professional cooks, so they most likely been preparing food longer than you).

Use other kitchen appliances safely.

When getting hot food from the microwave, use potholders to avoid getting burnt. Never leave metal spoons inside the microwave as well. Use a funnel to pour used hot oil to a container. In case of burns due to spilled hot soup or splattered cooking oil, put the burnt area under cold running water. Clean your quartz countertops after preparing food.

Choose the best countertop for your kitchen

Kitchen safety is important to prevent accidents and injuries. For your countertop needs, contact countertop replacement companies in Rockville and check their samples, too.

12

Jun

How to Protect Your Kitchen Countertop Surface

A nice countertop can enhance your kitchen’s appearance. There are also kitchen countertop materials you can choose from. For example, there are quartz kitchen countertops, granite countertops, and many more. Regardless of your choice, you should only hire a professional quartz countertop installer for your kitchen.

The countertop is one of the first things that visitors may notice in your home. As mentioned, it is available in different materials, textures, and patterns. Nonetheless, all countertops need regular care and maintenance to ensure their durability and long-term aesthetic value. Its cleaning requirements and techniques will depend on the countertop material, which is why you should know your countertop’s material beforehand.

There are commercial cleaners available for countertops. On the other hand, you can also try making your own cleaner using natural ingredients. You will need:

  • 16 oz. spray bottle filled with 1 cup of distilled white vinegar and a cup of water
  • 3 drops of tea tree oil
  • 3 drops of grapefruit essential oil

Combine these ingredients in the spray bottle and shake well before using. Spray the mixture onto the countertop surface and wipe thoroughly. But before trying this, make sure to test it first to ensure it won’t discolor the countertop or cause adverse effects.

On granite countertop maintenance

Granite countertops are one of the most popular countertop materials available. It has a porous material with a beautifully-polished yet delicate finishing. That is why countertop replacement companies would advise against dragging kitchen tools on its surface as it can scratch the countertop finishing. Here are other tips for granite countertop maintenance.

  • Do not cut food directly on its surface as it can cause scratches and damage its surface.
  • Avoid spilling acidic liquids such as citrus-based juices, soft drinks, and vinegar onto the granite surface.
  • Use a wet cloth with a gentle detergent to clean the countertop surface. Apply sealer once a year.

On marble countertop maintenance

Like granite, the marble material is also porous, meaning it can absorb liquids that can stain its surface. That is why you should wipe any spills on its surface as soon as it occurs. Here are some tips on maintaining a marble countertop.

  • Do not use abrasive pads on cleaning marble countertops.
  • Use a gentle dishwashing detergent to clean the countertop’s surface.
  • Use a microfiber cloth and a cleaning solution suitable for marble surface. Mix 3 tbsps. of baking soda and 1 quartz of lukewarm water and wipe it onto the surface. Let it dry for two hours before rinsing with water and drying using a clean and smooth cloth.

On wood countertop maintenance

Another popular countertop material is wood. For one, it looks rustic. However, it can be prone to burn marks. That is why you should use a hot plate or any other type of padding to protect the wooden countertop material. Here are other tips to care for your wooden countertop.

  • Use a cutting board when chopping vegetables and other kinds of foods.
  • The wood material is also prone to stains. Wipe any spills from the surface the moment it occurs.
  • Use food-grade mineral oil to “massage” the wood countertop. Using a clean cloth, rub the countertop with warm mineral oil. Let it sit for around 20 to 30 minute before wiping off excess oil.
  • You can wash wood material too. Just don’t let it sit for too long or it can affect the material’s durability.
  • For light stains, rub it with sliced lemon and salt. Let it sit overnight and rinse with water. For darker stains, wipe it with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide poured onto a cotton ball and blot the stain.

On maintaining non-porous countertop materials

Among common non-porous countertop materials include glass, laminate, and stainless steel. Quartz kitchen tops are also considered non-porous. These are easier to clean, unlike the previously-mentioned countertop materials. Here are some tips for their care and maintenance.

  • Use protective covers such as cutting boards or a trivet to protect the countertop’s surface.
  • Use soap and water to clean the countertop surface.
  • Use commercial countertop cleaners suitable for the countertop material.
  • Avoid using abrasive pads as they can cause scratches on the surface. For stubborn stains, mix detergent and hot water and scrub the surface using a soft-bristled cleaning pad.

These are some of the best tips to care for your kitchen countertop. For your countertop needs, look for the best granite companies in Potomac and check out their sample works, too.