20

Dec

What Are The Best Quartz Countertops Edge Profiles?

Selecting countertop materials can be hard, but the edges are also really crucial to think about. Here are some amazing edge options that will look spectacular on quartz countertops.

Pencil Edge Profile

A pencil edge profile is also called a straight edge and it’s one of the most common edges in quartz countertops. They’re simple, they look clean and minimal and if you’re not sure about a certain style of edge, then this one is a go-to for a lot of people.

It is just like it sounds. A pencil edge is pointed from the top and bottom and the side profile of it looks literally like a slab. This is a wonderful edge design to go for if you’re looking for something minimal and effortless. It’s going to give your countertop or island that element of crisp simplicity.

Eased Edge Profile

This is also like a straight or pencil edged profile, but it’s softened just a touch. The side profile of this edge looks rounded from both of the edges and it’s a lot more subtle than a very obvious pencil edge. This is great if you have kids who bump into things a lot and pencil edges can be quite dangerous because the edges of the countertops are sharp and pointy.

Moreover, eased edges are shaved down to look rounded so they are not only less dangerous than their pointy counterparts, but they can also reduce the chances of breaking and chipping upon impact, so that’s pretty amazing.

Bullnose Profile

Some might think that bullnose and eased edges are the same, but there is a slight difference that plays an important role. Bullnose edges are also rounded and don’t have any pointed edges protruding outwards, but the overall edge is also rounded unlike eased edges where only the edges are rounded and the extremity of the countertop is straight.

The roundness of the bullnose edge gives the countertops a lot more integrity and it prevents premature chipping and breaking because the shape is a lot more forgiving. You can’t go wrong with a bullnose countertop and with quartz, this edge profile is really easy to fabricate, so you’ll be in for a treat.

The only downside to this edge design is the fact that it doesn’t let things stay on top of the surface like water or other fluids. With straight or eased edges, because of the straight extremity, the water or fluid will stop at the edge, whereas in bullnose edges, the water will slide down the rounded extremity. So that is something that you will need to keep in mind.

Half Bullnose Profile

This edge is a cross between a pencil edge and a bullnose edge. The top of the edge is rounded and soft whereas the bottom of the edge is pointy just like a normal edge. This edge is a bit more classy and intricate if you’re looking for a bit of change from those common edge designs, but still want simplicity and ease to shine through.

This edge design can be easily fabricated on strong and durable quartz countertops and you will fall in love with the results. This edge profile looks specifically good on countertops with a darker color, but the choice is ultimately up to you.

Ogee Profile

This kitchen island edge design has a beautiful flair to it and this might just be your new favorite edge for quartz countertops. The top of the countertop edge is shaved into a “C” shape and it droops down into a half bullnose formation. And at the end, the edge is protruding out like a pointed edge.

So, all in all, this edge is a combination of three unique edge designs, but the result is just as wonderful. It’s elegant and regal and it gives off that luxurious vibe when fabricated on a countertop or island.

Beveled Profile

If you’re looking for angular edges because that’s what you prefer, then you can certainly choose a beveled edge profile. The side of this edge is very futuristic. It starts with a slope that’s about 45 degrees and it goes all the way to the bottom of the edge thickness.

This edge is beautiful and it looks amazing on quartz countertops, but you can get it done on any other countertop material as well and the look will be as lovely as ever. If rounded and pointed edges are not your thing, then you certainly want to give this edge profile a go.

Half Bevel Profile

This is also a cross between the normal bevel and the pointed edge design. This edge design is a lot softer than a normal bevel, but it still has that sharp angular look that people know and love. So, you won’t be missing out on anything.

The top of the edge slopes down at a 45-degree angle, but this time, instead of going all the way to the bottom, the slope stops halfway and then it drops down into a pointed edge formation. This combination looks stunning if you want a more prominent design.

Summit Profile

In looks, this design can be similar to a half bevel, but it’s so much more than that when you do a side-by-side comparison. A summit edge starts with an angular steep at about 45 degrees and it stops at 1/4th of the thickness. After that, the design is straight and it goes all the way down in a pencil edge style. In some cases, at 3/4th of the thickness, the design can change again and mirror the top.

Boulder Edge Profile

This design will be highlighted beautifully if you have thicker countertops, so it will look stunning on a kitchen island. The boulder design is something similar to a rounded edge, but it’s double layers.

The design starts with a “C” shaped curve and then the edge drops down into a rounded bullnose formation, and after that, there’s another more protruding rounded bullnose and this is what gives this edge a wonderful layered effect that is absolutely beautiful.

If you have thicker countertops, then certainly consider this edge profile because you will be wowed. Because of the layering, this design doesn’t look the best on thin countertops though.

Basin Edge Profile

The basin edge profile is a wonderful combination of soft and edgy. The edge of the countertop starts with a dragged “C” shape. The curve is not as pronounced and it looks somewhat straight with a slight curve. As the curve ends, the edge tapers up a bit before descending in a rounded tip and it looks absolutely beautiful on darker colored countertops. You can also go for this design with lighter-colored countertops, but the grooves and intricacies will be prominent in darker colors. You will have to see the pictures for yourself to understand the hype of this design.

Laminated

This rather a protective coat on top of the entire quartz slab to preserve its shine and beauty. This can also add to the shine of your quartz countertop. Moreover, this feature can be used along with any edge profile you want.

Conclusion

If you are considering quartz countertops, then definitely check out these edge designs. They will add a distinct character to your countertops. So, get in touch with quartz countertop contractors Rockville to find out which edge profiles they offer.

06

Nov

Quartz Vs. Solid Surface Countertops: Which One Is Better?

Are you remodeling your kitchen or looking to replace your countertop? Do you need some ideas for new kitchen countertop materials? Well, you came to the perfect place. Here is a comparison between solid surface and quartz countertops. The two most popular engineered stone countertop materials.

Differences Between Quartz And Solid Surface Countertops

Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops have unique properties listed below:

Unmatched Durability

Quartz is a man-made material made out of pulverized stones and minerals. They are densely compacted together in the form of slabs under high temperature and pressure. This is why quartz has the upper hand when it comes to durability.

It doesn’t break, chip, or shatter under immense forces or impacts and it doesn’t break along the edges either which is a huge weak point for a lot of natural stones countertop martials no matter how strong the material is.

Quartz is also non-porous, so it doesn’t need to be sealed and it also doesn’t stain because of this characteristic. Quartz is a great option to consider if you’re looking for something that’s going to last you a long time and if you want great value for the money you’re spending.

A great thing about quartz is that it will last you as long as granite, but it will also cost you quite similar to granite.

Maintenance & Variety

When choosing a countertop, the two primary things that people seem to care about are the maintenance and the overall options available. Well, quartz has you covered in both departments and the results are quite promising to say the least.

Quartz is a pretty low-maintenance material and it doesn’t need a lot of cleaning either. All you need to do, to keep quartz countertops spotless, is regular cleaning with a wet rag and a soapy water solution. That’s going to be more than enough for quartz and it’s going to remain spotless for longer.

As far as options are concerned, there are a lot to choose from, especially if you’re looking for something neutral and not too bold. There are a lot of colors available in white, off-white, beige, gray, and countertops with veining that resemble marble and granite.

There is a myth that there not many color options of quartz that are bolder and richer, but it’s not true. Quartz is an engineered stone to almost any color and pattern can be made.

Heat Resistant

Quartz is made to withstand high temperatures making it a perfect material to use in the kitchen. However, it’s not heat proof. It can withstand heat up to 300 Fahrenheit. But if anything hotter than this temperature is placed on the quartz slab, the owner will regret it. That’s because the hot item will leave a stain on the quartz surface which is hard to remove.

The heat endurance of most countertop materials is low and quartz is not any different. Homeowners should use heat pads and trivets to protect their countertops.

Scratch Resistant

Another huge worry for people who are looking at different countertop materials is softness. A soft material will scratch easily and those scratches can be the end for the countertops, especially if they go unnoticed. Deep scratches can lead to fluid penetration and that is the key thing that can lead to immense damage.

Scratches can also lead to stains because the non-porous surface will be exposed to moisture and that can be pretty detrimental for the countertops. It can lead to them getting prematurely ruined.

Solid Surface Countertops

Strong & Durable

Solid surface countertops are also quite durable They don’t break easily and the main reason is the composition of the material itself.

Solid surface kitchen countertops aren’t made of pulverized stones. Rather, this material is made from resin and pigments that are mixed in a paste and then formed into slabs by treating them with pressure and temperature. This is what gives solid surface countertops a characteristic sheen on the surface.

They are mostly used in modern and minimal kitchen designs. Solid surface is a great option for people who want something similar to quartz, but a bit different. Being almost equal in price, a lot of people prefer solid surface countertops because the look is just more contemporary than other stone-based countertops and that’s a quality that speaks volumes and is the main reason for the popularity of this material.

Say Goodbye To Seams

Seams are an issue with most countertops that are installed in the form of slabs and tiles and while most of them can be covered, it may still be a problem in the back of the mind. With solid surface countertops, there is no issue of seams because they’re installed in a single unit and the only seam that will be present is on the L-shaped ledge of the countertop, which can be easily hidden.

Because of the way this countertop material is made, seams are virtually invisible and there’s no issue in proper installation either. If you’re someone who is a perfectionist when it comes to countertop installation, then you’ll be happy to know that solid surface countertops will not disappoint you.

Furthermore, even if there are seams because of a complicated countertop layout, they can be hidden with some epoxy resin of the same color.

No Sealing Required

This is a quality similar to quartz, and if you’re basing your priority solely on this factor, then both materials are a good choice. Solid surface countertops, like quartz countertops, don’t need to be sealed. Sealing is not just an extra step to ensure waterproofing of the material, but it can also add up as an extra cost, and not a lot of people are a huge fan of this.

So, it’s a good thing that you don’t need to seal solid surface countertops because the surface is virtually non-porous and no fluid or moisture can penetrate the material and cause damage.

Sealing is done on materials and stones that are porous by nature, like granite and marble, because these materials can easily get damaged by water and you’ll be wasting a lot more money on getting them fixed, so it’s better to be safe than sorry. But luckily, there’s no need to seal solid surface countertops.

Maintenance & Variety

If you are curious about the general maintenance and the overall variety of solid surface countertops, then you’ll be delighted to know that it’s just as easy to maintain and take care of, as quartz and other non-porous materials. There’s no need to wax and polish the surface of these countertops because the natural shine is enough to give the countertops a lustrous look.

As far as variety is concerned, solid surface countertops have an upper hand. There are a lot of colors and designs that can be made, according to the customer’s preferences because all it takes in the making of solid surface countertops, is resin and a pigment. So, any color of countertops imaginable can be created and installed in your kitchen. It’s a wonderful choice to go for if you’re looking for something low-maintenance.

Conclusion

This guide is going to give you a thorough comparison between the two materials and you can decide for yourself, as to which countertop material is better for you. However, as both are engineered stone countertop materials, they are have less differences. Discuss more with a quartz countertops dealer Potomac to choose the right material.

28

Mar

What is Quartz Countertop Pitting

When you asked the quartz countertops installer to work on your kitchen, you have beautiful structures in your home until they start pitting. Now, you are probably wondering why this problem has surfaced. Therefore, this will become a concern for you.

In general, pitting happens when empty pockets are developing in the quartz countertop. Over time, small debris and deposits will enter the tiny holes. Trying to remove the substances from the gaps might cause more imperfections, like a deeper pit compared to before. Even if pitting might happen on quartz countertops, you can still fix the issue. If you want to know more about quartz countertop pitting, you should read this article until the end.

Can it be Fixed?

The answer to this is yes, epoxy can be used to fill most pitting. However, shallow pitting might not be filled properly because there is not enough surface area for the epoxy to stick. When the quartz countertop holes are large enough, it is filled with epoxy and it is mixed to match the natural color of the stone.

The natural stone professional is going to mix an epoxy that is specific to your stone and color where there is pitting. First, a filter is going to be tinted in order to match the stone before being mixed with a hardener. The hardener will quickly harden, so there is not enough time between applying and mixing the stone. The epoxy will take a couple of minutes to set depending on the product that was used.

Proper Sealing

Proper sealing will allow your natural stone countertops to withstand a lot of daily activities in the coming years. However, some stones are prone to staining because of how they were composed structurally. There are differences in how much mineral deposits and some factors that make every stone totally different from each one and more prone to staining compared to others. For instance, darker quartz has higher PSI compared to lighter stones, which means the higher density makes it able to withstand stains and watermarks from happening.

In case you want to buy natural stone for remodeling, or even if you fabricate stone, you should know that fissuring and pitting are natural and common.

Are Fissures and Pitting the Same in Quartz?

In general, fissures and pitting are quartz and other stone imperfections. However, what differentiates these issues from one another is their appearance.

Most of the time, a pit is a tiny space that appears due to deposits in the quartz countertop surface. Aside from that, a fissure normally looks like a crack shape. But these problems could become serious over time, especially if you leave them alone.

Why Choose Professionals When You Can Do Filling on Your Own?

Even if there are DIY solutions, this is a job that you would want a professional to do. A couple of natural stone owners damage their stones when they are trying to fill the pitting with DIY solutions. Choosing and mixing the right epoxy for the countertop, with the right tools, and acquiring the color tint right is worth the money you are paying a professional.

Keep in Mind that it Inherent in Quartz Countertop Surfaces

Another reason for this is that pitting can happen in quartz countertops because of inherent cracks in quartz countertop surfaces.

This is because quartz countertops are constructed from individual crystals, and cracks can form between these crystals. When this is combined with expansion and contraction processes that all-natural stone countertops experience, this will lead to pitting.

You can talk to a quartz countertop installer Montgomery County MD anytime and have your countertops fixed.

31

Jan

How to Have the Perfect Countertop Installation

When you are paying for a quartz countertop installer, you might probably be thinking that this is a no-brainer, yes? After all, the installation of a countertop is a quick and simple job that you can do on your own. However, you should not assume that it will be easy for you. This can be a simple job for some, but it can be tricky for others. You should learn how to acquire the best installation of a countertop so your kitchen is going to look its best.

Like with the majority of undertakings, you will have the perfect countertop installation if you prepare. In case you have the materials already, you would have to prepare your kitchen to make sure that the countertop seamlessly fits.

Careful Research is Needed

Preparation is important, and any good preparation means you have to research a lot. If you want a perfect countertop installation, you also need the perfect material. You should not be stingy in this aspect of your countertop because it might not fulfill what you intend to use it for.

You have to always make sure that you prioritize quality, not skimping on the price. You can choose to get countertops from a local store if you have the confidence when it comes to doing enough research to show brands with good quality. However, if you are not entirely sure what type or brand suits your kitchen, you can work with experts on countertops.

Proper Planning

Countertop installation is a huge project, so you would want to work around yourself and the schedule of your family. Countertop installations are quick, but you do not want to cook a huge meal the same day that you are redoing your counters. Keep in mind that if you do not have a kitchen, even for a short while, it can cause you stress. You must plan ahead so the installation process is stress-free.

Ask for an Estimate

After you have narrowed down the list of qualified companies you are choosing from, you should ask each one to give you an estimate. This is crucial because you want to be sure when you compare them side-by-side. No two companies will come up with exactly the same estimate for the job. Of course, you want to make sure to estimate from each company so that you will know the price range you are going to work with. When you get an estimate from all companies, you want to make sure to get detailed notes about what they tell you as they do the estimation.

Make the Countertop Support Strong

In the majority of kitchens, countertops are normally placed on cabinets. This is applicable to wall cabinets and kitchen islands. This is going to minimize the space that has been taken up, and it will ensure that the countertop’s bottom is put to good use.

Therefore, you have to be sure to make countertop support stronger. Aside from the item weight that is held inside, the kitchen cabinets should have enough strength to carry the countertop weight you want to install.

Measure

You would want to get measurements and space dimensions before you head off to choose new countertops. These measurements have to include the current and future space. Even if they do not need to be exact, they are going to help you choose materials and start the process faster. Measurement is very important because you would want to have a countertop that is just the right size for your kitchen.

You can check out granite countertops Potomac anytime if you want to install a new one.

20

Dec

How Quartz Countertops Transform Your Kitchen

A kitchen renovation is a major undertaking, and a lot of homeowners look back and regret any decisions they made. You should not cut corners now to just regret it after some time. You can make the most out of your kitchen remodel when you go for quartz countertop contractors.

The cost might seem expensive when you compare it to other materials, but you are going to keep those countertops most likely at home for many years or decades. The easy care and maintenance of quartz pay for itself since it no longer requires sealing, special cleaning products, or other time-consuming and costly maintenance. You will discover more reasons why quartz countertops transform your kitchen by reading until the end.

Quartz is Environmentally Friendly

Quartz countertops are environmentally friendly, which means they are virtually safe and do not emit radon gas. This gas is colorless and odorless that is known to be a leading cause of lung cancer in the USA, according to the research performed by EPA.

Therefore, if you want to be environmentally green, you should choose quartz countertops for your kitchen. You will also use lesser cleaning products with chemicals because your countertop is easy to clean.

You can Buy Them Patterned or Solid

Choose between solid or patterned shades. A solid hue makes your room seem refined, low-key, and sleek, and you can choose from shades that include the spectrum from dramatic or subdued. There is also gray, black, neutral tan, white, beige, blue-green, brighter blue, orange, etc. Gray with one shade, black quartz, or white makes your room look elegant and luxurious. The color has an advantage over quartz with dark hues.

The other benefit is it lets you change other decors to anything you want because it fits with different looks. The versatility is amazing and it is not hard to incorporate it into your kitchen.

Timeless Luxury

Quartz countertops appear like solid stones, but they are a blend of 95% natural quartz that is mixed with 5% polymer design. The material blends make a more resilient surface and it is tough. Quartz is a lot stronger compared to other stone materials and it is almost indestructible.

Even if quartz countertops are not the cheapest, they are a great investment that lasts for decades and it continues to look fantastic without making a lot of fuss.

Mix and Match

If you would stick to one hue, you can mix and match. A patterned quartz countertop is more intriguing and adventurous, especially when it comes to contemporary spaces. You can choose eye-catching patterns and variations that transform your room with any detail. For instance, in case you want to retain the look, you should add a dash of style. Barely-there mottling a solid hue, swirls, and delicate gold veins that run through the quartz adding some visual interest.

More Considerations

Even if you can mix, blend, and match shares until you arrive at the look you want, there are a couple of tips to keep in mind. You can start to collect samples of the final selection, and then hold them against the décor or flooring so you can see how they fit. If you chose a dramatic, speckled black that adds flair and flamboyance to your room, you must ensure that you have the right room size where the color stands out. The lighting also plays an important role, which affects the look. Lastly, your cabinetry and flooring should match or contrast with the countertop colors so that they all come together to look fabulous.

Do not hesitate to contact quartz countertops dealer Potomac anytime if you want the nicest-looking quartz kitchen countertop.

 

 

 

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.

30

Aug

Fun Facts About Quartz Kitchen Countertops

If you have not undergone a kitchen remodel before, or you considered even just one, you are aware that it is important to choose the right countertop material. This can be the hardest decision you will ever make in the process. Every homeowner is different, which means there is not one material that is the best for any situation.

Therefore, to make maintenance easier and achieve versatility, you can do a lot better if you go for quartz kitchen countertops. Quartz is popular because it is customizable and it can be made into almost all shapes and patterns. Most of the time, they are the most expensive luxury countertop materials. Read on to know more facts about quartz countertops.

Durable and Damage Resistant

Quartz is among the hardest materials you will find, and it is the compound stone that is used for countertops that maintains a lot of that toughness. This makes it the most durable material for countertops. When you are using quartz, you do not have to worry about the wear and tear so much, like the scratches, and heat resistance. Aside from that, since it is non-porous and resistant to germs, mildew, and bacteria, it helps alleviate worries when it comes to sanitation.

Even if it is a hard material, it is flexible as well, so it can be shaped into almost anything and have the counter you want. Therefore, if you do not use an uninterrupted slab, that is fine, because it cuts cleanly. That means there are barely perceptible seams.

It is More Than Meets the Eye

A lot of people might be shocked to hear that many quartz countertops are not made of quartz. Some of them do, but naming quartz countertops is only requiring that they follow a certain manufacturing process known as the Bretonstone process. It does not mandate that quartz stone should be used in the manufacturing process. Therefore, a lot of companies began to use materials to achieve the same result and the polished look that quartz owners love. Therefore, those quartz countertops you have eyeballed might be comprised of a combination of marble granite and other types of stone. They are mostly made using crushed quartz. It is available and extremely durable, so it is an excellent choice for the Bretonstone process of production.

Wider Color Range

Since quartz countertops are made out of ground-up minerals and are not cut from one piece of material, they need a manufactured finish. Even if about 90% of a quartz countertop is made using ground-up quartz, the other 10% is comprised of polymers, resins, and pigments. Using pigments at this stage lets manufacturers create an endless variety of color options. Even if natural stone countertops are confined to the colors in stone around the world, engineered stone can be engineered in its appearance and structure. Quartz countertops are made to look like other kinds of stone or concrete.

There are More People Embracing Quartz Today

Many years ago, quartz became a way for people to achieve the look of granite and marble without paying a high price. Companies are doing their best to go with the trends every year in terms of a specific pattern or popular countertop shades. Since quartz has been there so long, it has helped bring it out from the shadows. People are now more confident with their self-expression as well. One benefit of quartz and other engineered stone is that they are customizable.

You can contact countertop replacement services Potomac anytime once you are ready to have your quartz countertop installed.

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.

30

Jul

Countertop Installation Mistakes

When you observe a person who steals installing countertops, with their given materials, making the job easy. However, people are unable to understand that installing a countertop, even the walls, floors, and cupboards are not always perfect, squared, or leveled. Professional kitchen and home builders will anticipate that expected places where they should be installed are imperfect and out of their control. It is going to take skills, experiences, and knowledge in order to set these items in place.

Aside from the capabilities of experts in installing granite countertop installers and doing things for you. It is worth it to know more countertop installation issues so you can understand the process. Therefore, here are common fitting issues and how they can be fixed.

Using the Wrong Material

When you choose a material for your countertop, you must consider if the slab is natural or man-made and is going to suit your needs. Natural stones of the slab are porous in nature, and it requires the application of a great quality sealer. Granite that is properly sealed and natural is durable and sustainable, but the marble slabs are susceptible to getting damaged by anything acidic such as citrus juices, wine, or vinegar. If you leave it out too long, they can leave a dull mark on your marble countertops. For some people, this gives you a beautiful patina, but some see it as a frustrating mistake.

The Granite is Too Thick

Granite slabs should not be glued together. The reason behind this is that even if your granite slabs are going to last for years, the adhesives do not offer the same amount of durability. Therefore, if you choose a slab that is 1.5” thick but you are looking for something thicker, you might want to glue two slabs together if you want the desired look. This should not be done because the glue is going to begin deteriorating and they will have gaps between them, and this leads to irreplaceable damage.

Choosing the Wrong Edge

You should consider the edge of your countertop. This is mainly true for a family house or if there are kids because the wrong edge could cause a bigger hazard. Therefore, it is important that you should think about which edge is making sense for your home countertops. Usually, a counter must be smooth-edged so you can maximize the value it brings you.

Cracks

One common problem with countertop installation is cracks. This normally occurs when the countertop installers do not handle the slab carefully or place too much pressure on it. But the granite countertop will only crack after the installation. Chances are, it was in an uneven era. If you spot cracks after the installation, you should inform the countertop installer right away.

However, if you want to avoid this, you need to allow installation experts to check the surface first. You will witness them using a laser level while measuring the surface prior to installing a countertop. This is going to help them in identifying imperfections on the surface and they can formulate the right strategy for them. The countertop should be cleaned before installation.

The Sink is Not Levelled

With granite countertops, you can have an under-mounted sink, making it easier to clean. However, if you do not level the sink properly with the granite countertop, there are loose particles that will spill and roll in several directions, which is going to make everyday tasks harder.

Those who work within the space should clean up after.

You should talk to granite contractors Potomac so that you can be sure that the installation will go smoothly.

 

17

May

Benefits of a Quartz Countertop

It is a lot of fun choosing the countertop of your newly remodeled bathroom or kitchen. However, you should also take it seriously because it is a serious investment. It is also a huge commitment that can last at least 25 years if you choose the quartz countertops of another solid option. That is why it is imperative to know the benefits of quartz countertops.

Quartz is among the popular choices of the countertops of today because it is a high-quality material that is luxurious and easy to maintain. Unlike other surfaces, the quartz slab is engineered. This opens a new world of chances and possibilities. Find out more about why you should choose quartz countertops.

Good Variety

Since manufacturers are controlling the process, these countertops come in different colors and designs. A lot of people find it hard to distinguish top-quality countertops from marble, granite, and other natural stone. If you want a contemporary look, you can include recycled glass and flecks of metal.

It is also easier than you think to keep the quartz countertops in top shape.

Non-Porous

 Classic quartz countertops are made from about 90% quartz, and this is beneficial to you.

Quartz is non-porous so it is resistant to stain. That means as long as you wipe away liquid soon, after every spill, you should not be concerned. Over time, other countertops will absorb wine, oils, juice, and other substances that will be difficult to remove. This is because pores allow the substance below the surface where it cannot be wiped away.

Another good thing about the non-porous nature of a quartz countertop is it does not require sealing. In order to help prevent stains, it should be periodically sealed. This consumes a lot of time and if you leave it like that, the material can be harmed. Quartz material does not need sealing, so it requires less work to have it.

Durability

When you have a quartz countertop, you are getting an extremely strong and tough material that stands up to many decades of use by your family. It is scratch-resistant and does not chip away. Since it is waterproof, it is also stain and water-damage-resistant. The truth is, this is among the biggest reasons why people choose quartz for their kitchen countertop. They are not totally indestructible and you still need to use cutting boards, quickly wipe up spills and use trivets to protect dishes and hot pans. Since quartz countertops are durable, manufacturers issue a lot of warranties against damage and defects in manufacturing.

Stylish

One of the main benefits that you will get from having a quartz countertop is the stylish options available. Quartz comes in a wide range of patterns and colors. It can mimic the look of granite, marble, or concrete, and it can be in colors that cannot be obtained in other materials like bright green.

Every quartz countertop is made to order. That means if you have odd curves, angles, want a unique edge, or other unique aspects, quartz can be shaped to what you want. You can also choose the finish, with a lot of colors that come in polished and leather textures. This will allow you to customize the quartz look of your countertop to match your home.

Fewer Imperfections

Quartz countertops are made with a lot of precision, using controlled material quantities, quality control, and care. This minimizes the occurrence of pits, fissures, and other imperfections that normally show up.

You can contact quartz countertop installer Potomac to have the best result for your kitchen remodeling project.