Tag Archives: attractive kitchen countertop

Best Countertop Materials for Outdoor Kitchens

Most kitchens are not complete without kitchen countertops. There are many countertops you can choose for your kitchen. There are marble countertops, granite countertops, and other countertop material of your choice. Regardless of your option, it should serve you well and your kitchen escapades for many years.

Meanwhile, more and more households have outdoor kitchens in their homes. Outdoor living has become popular in the past few years. It has also redefined how homeowners entertain guests. Instead of staying and spending time indoors, outdoor living has paved the way for homeowners and guests appreciate the outside view while enjoying each other’s company.

One popular addition in many homes today is an outdoor kitchen. Aside from an outdoor cooking area, it also serves as an entertainment area for friends and family. You can install an oven, stove, and refrigerator in your outdoor kitchen. A countertop is also an essential add-on to your outdoor kitchen.

However, it is important to choose the right countertop material for the outdoor kitchen. As mentioned, there are many kinds of countertop materials you can choose from. Yet, not all of these materials are appropriate for outdoor use. That is why you should know the right kind of countertop material for your outdoor kitchen.

Why you should choose countertops that are specific for outdoor use

An outdoor countertop is a must-have for your outdoor kitchen. This is the area where you will do the food preparation and serving. As mentioned, choosing the right countertop material for your outdoor kitchen is important. For one, the countertop will be subjected to constant exposure to various outdoor elements.

Likewise, an outdoor countertop should be weather-resistant, durable, and easy to clean and maintain. Not to mention, it should look attractive as well. The type of countertop will also depend on your budget. Nevertheless, you should choose the one that will suit your outdoor kitchen needs.

Popular outdoor countertop materials

Here are some of the most appropriate countertop materials for an outdoor kitchen.

Granite

Granite kitchen countertops are considered among the top choice when it comes to outdoor countertop materials. It has a durable stone material that can tolerate all types of weather and elements. Granite is also available in different color options that won’t easily fade due to exposure to UV rays. It should also be sealed properly for long-lasting results.

Tiles

It is another countertop material that is more suitable for warmer locations. On the other hand, it is not recommended for areas with cold weather as it can crack during extreme weather conditions. Preferably, you can use either granite or porcelain tiles as it can be less prone to fading, unlike ceramic tiles.

Brick or flagstone

These materials are more commonly used as pathways for patios. However, these can also be a good outdoor countertop material. Brick or flagstone countertops look good in a rustic-themed outdoor kitchen. The materials are also porous, but you can use an acrylic sealer for easier cleaning and stain resistance.

Soapstone

This is another countertop material that can be used for outdoor kitchens. It has a dense material that is also stain and heat-resistant. There is no need for sealing and it won’t easily fade. Just make sure to apply mineral oil periodically to enhance the look of the material.

Countertop materials that should NOT be used outdoors

On the other hand, there are countertop materials that are not recommended for outdoor use. One of them is quartz countertops. For one, the color can easily fade when frequently exposed to sunlight. Formica is also not recommended as an outdoor countertop material. This material may not tolerate humidity and moisture as it also has a particleboard core.

Likewise, Formica is also susceptible to warping and deterioration when exposed to harsh outdoor elements. Concrete can also be a good outdoor countertop material. However, it should be installed properly and applied with sealant regularly to avoid staining and cracking.

Conclusion

Having an outdoor kitchen is a great idea given the popularity of outdoor living these past few years. However, you should also consider the right material you will install in the outdoor kitchen. For one, it should withstand all types of outdoor elements and ensure that it will last for years. You can hire granite countertop installers for your outdoor countertop needs. Better yet, contact the best contractors specializing in countertop replacement in Raleigh.

Tips on Painting your Kitchen Countertop

A kitchen countertop is one of the first things a person will notice when they go to the kitchen area. It is where a lot of things happen – from putting kitchenware and utensils on top to cutting, preparing, and serving food. Countertops such as granite countertops and quartz countertops have their respective pros and cons. Nonetheless, these are some of the most popular countertop materials available in the market.

But at some point, you may find your current countertop boring or unattractive. It may also have some discoloration or chips due to years of use. That may give you an idea to call a countertop replacement company to have your old countertop replaced. However, you should consider the fact that replacing your countertop means additional expense as well.

But there are other options to keep your countertop look good without replacing it – paint it. Yes, it is possible to paint your countertop and give it a fresh makeover. It may seem easy as it seems, but it depends on the countertop material. Better yet, you can hire professional painters for a high-quality finish.

Getting the paint job started

First of all, it is important to clean the countertop surface first before doing anything else. A kitchen countertop has most likely already endured years’ worth of stains, spills, and scratches. No wonder it may not look as majestic as it was years ago.

Sometimes, even simply wiping the countertop surface may not be enough. So before painting the countertop, make sure to use a cleaner that contains trisodium phosphate. This ingredient can dissolve residue such as grease. Once applied, leave it for a few seconds before rinsing thoroughly.

After cleaning the countertop surface with the appropriate cleaner, you should scruff the surface to ensure that the paint will adhere more easily. You can use sandpaper to slightly scruff the countertop’s surface. After sanding, remove the dust by vacuuming it and wipe the kitchen countertops of any remaining specks using a clean damp cloth.

It is also required to use primer on a countertop surface especially if it’s plastic or laminate. Meanwhile, experts suggest using an epoxy paint that is water-based or acrylic enamel paint. Both types of paint can work without a primer. There are also other paint kits available in your local home improvement stores depending on your personal preference and needs.

Use either a brush or roller to paint the countertop surface. Make sure not to leave obvious brush marks when painting the countertop. You may also have to paint the surface multiple times for better results – just let the paint dry first before applying another coat.

Mistakes to avoid when choosing a countertop

Some owners tend to DIY things to save money, and one way to save their countertop is by painting it. While it is a good idea to give it a fresher look, it may also require maintenance so the paint job lasts for long. On the other hand, you can also call granite countertop installers to repair or replace your countertop.

Who doesn’t want to be always in with the latest trends? However, trends always come and go. When that currently trendy countertop becomes outdated, you would end up replacing it yet again with whatever’s the latest countertop design. Basically, it is just a waste of money. If you want to make your countertop trendy without constantly changing it, make it your own and inject your personality in it.

There are also different types of countertops such as granite kitchen countertops, laminate, wood, and quartz. Each of these countertops also has its own pros and cons, so you should choose one that will suit your needs. If you want to repaint it, you should also know the right way of doing it so that the paint job will last for long.

Countertop care and maintenance tips

No matter how beautiful and well-painted your countertop is, you should give it the utmost care so it will last longer. Here are some tips to ensure your countertop’s longevity.

Use a cutting board when chopping food and avoid scratching the countertop surface.
Wipe the countertop surface using a clean and damp cloth every time you use it.
Make sure to wipe off any stains when it occurs to avoid marking on the countertop surface and ruining its appearance.
Avoid putting hot containers directly on the countertop surface, and use a trivet or heat pad before placing the container.

Call countertop experts near you

For your countertop needs, trust only the professionals. Contact the best granite countertop installers in Durham today!

When Should You Replace Your Kitchen Countertop?

A kitchen countertop can not only make your kitchen area attractive but also provide several benefits. For one, high-quality and multi-functional quartz countertops can serve as an extension area where you can prepare and serve food. Also, kitchen countertops can also be extra storage areas for some of your kitchen equipment and tools.

However, even the most expensive and high-quality countertop can be prone to some kind of damage over time. That is why it important to provide the utmost care for your countertop so you can use it for several years. Also, make sure to choose countertops only from the best granite companies near your area. After all, a countertop can be one of the most important investments you can make for your kitchen and your home in general.

When should you replace your countertop?

High-quality countertops should last you several years because it is built to be that way. But at some point, your countertop may incur cracks, erosion, and other signs of damage through the years. At that point, you may have to consider replacing your countertop. However, you should consider the following factors before deciding to replace your countertop:

Presence of cracks

Having cracks in granite countertops or whatever countertop material you have is not normal, to say the least. Aside from making the countertop look unsightly and dirty, bacteria and other harmful elements can seep through the cracks that can contaminate your food.

Normally, countertop cracks can be repaired. However, it can be challenging to find a material that can perfectly match your original countertop. On the other hand, repairing the crack(s) yourself can make it look worse especially if you are going to do this the first time.

Presence of burn or stain marks

Any presence of stains and burn marks can also make your countertop look dirty and old. It may still some marks even if you wipe the stained area vigorously. You may also find some stain removal formulas in the market, or discover a DIY one online.

But be careful with these, as the ingredients may further damage the countertop material instead. Unless these unsightly marks don’t bother you, it is advisable to have your old countertop replaced.

Outdated design

Your current countertop may have been in your home for years without undergoing any repairs or design updates. However, home improvement trends also undergo changes over the years.

In other words, kitchen countertops may go outdated too, and it may include yours. For the newest trends on countertops, you can consult the best granite contractors near you.

Planning to sell your home

Outdated furniture and other home décor and equipment can turn off potential home buyers. So if you are planning to sell your home, make sure to do necessary changes and repairs to make it look more attractive, fresh, and updated.

Should I repair or replace?

Replacing an entire countertop can be expensive, especially if you are considering changing into brand-new granite kitchen countertops. That is why it can be more practical to do some repairs instead of completely changing your current countertop.

As mentioned, replacing an entire countertop can be expensive so doing repairs instead can be more practical. However, you should also consider what kind of repairs your countertop needs depending on its material. Before doing this, make sure to consult countertop experts near you.

If you already have a granite or quartz countertop, you can consider applying sealant to make it look like new again. Ideally, resealing your countertop should be done once every few years to achieve its maximum look every time.

Countertop replacement tips

Here are some simple tips when considering having your countertop replaced:

Consider maintenance requirements.

Some countertop materials require a higher level of maintenance such as granite and quartz. Nonetheless, all countertops should be maintained regularly regardless of your chosen material.

Consider your budget.

Not all countertop materials are priced the same. That is why it is important to choose one that is reasonably-priced, one that will meet your expectations in terms of maintenance and design, and one that will last you several years.

Hire the best countertop replacement company

There are a lot of countertop contractors out there. That is why you should choose a company that offers the best countertop replacement in Raleigh NC. Also, the company should also be able to work well with their clients and offer topnotch products and overall customer satisfaction every time.

Why granite countertops are your best option for the kitchen?

granite kitchen countertops

Using granite kitchen countertops may be the next best thing for your kitchen. Not only are they good to look at, but are also extremely hard and sturdy. Using steel and wooden materials these days has become the norm and that should give you adequate reason to look for other options.

Six reasons why you should consider granite countertops for your home:

While there may be some reasons granite countertops find so many critics, there are several reasons why incorporating it in your kitchen will work for you.

Appealing – It is extremely good to look at and with the right type of surroundings and aesthetics, your kitchen will sparkle with an unparalleled radiance. There are several layouts and designs that you can choose from.
Longevity – One of the biggest advantages when it comes to using granite countertops is the durability. Needless to say, it can withstand all weathers conditions as well as the heat and cold from the various elements that are there in the kitchen.
Upkeep – As far as maintenance is concerned, there is very little you will have to do. Basic cleanliness using soap and water will do the trick for you. Also, frequent cleaning won’t cause any harm to it so you can give it a rub as frequently as you like.
Options – Granite countertops provide adequate scope for improvisation since they come in a range of colours, shapes and sizes. Mix and match it in any way that you would like in order to brighten up your kitchen.
Distinctive – Since granite comes in dynamic shapes and sizes, it is safe to say that your kitchen will have a unique and distinct look as compared to others who use mundane materials.
Pocket-friendly – A big reason why you should choose granite countertops is because they are extremely light on the wallet.

Remodel your kitchen anytime without former planning

The versatility of the granite kitchen countertop is that it can be used in a variety of settings. They blend in with almost any surroundings. Usually, any other material that is used for a countertop requires quite a bit of planning.
From the above mentioned points, it may be safe to say that granite countertop installers are the most affordable and trendy way for you to design your kitchen. The longevity of it and the minimum effort required for its upkeep make it a feasible investment in the long run. Granite countertops should be your go—to choice for your kitchen needs.

The Secret to Getting Great Kitchen Counters

You can find plenty of kitchen counter surfaces these days. Each material has its own pros and cons. However, the latest trend is stone, stone, and more stone. There are countless choices in stone countertops and all of them are exceptionally durable. Thus, if you are looking for great kitchen countertop, then explore a number of options available in the market.

Kitchen countertop options

When it comes to kitchen countertop surface, no other material can beat the stones. The biggest advantage of stone counters is that they can bear heat, wear and tear, stress, and spills without complaining. On the dark side, stone countertops are cold, expensive and tough on glassware. Check out the below mentioned kitchen countertop options to know which surface full fills the needs and requirements of your kitchen.

Engineered stone countertops

This type of countertop surfaces combines the colorful palette of solid surfaces and durability of granite. Engineered stone countertops are good for homeowners who want the look and feel of stone. A lot of color options and textures are available in the engineered stone countertops. The benefits of engineered countertops can be stated as-

Engineered stones are aesthetically pleasing.
Engineered stones remain unfazed by heat.
Engineered stones countertops have very good scratch-resistant property.
Engineered stones do not get affected by everyday spills.

Natural stone countertops

Natural stone countertop materials like slate, limestone marble and granite makes an incredible style statement. These counter surfaces come in a variety of grains, colors, textures and finishes that means it go with any design scheme.

Every natural stone has its own benefits. Granite has wonderful heat resistant quality. Marble and limestone provide perfect finishing and are cheaper as compared to granite countertops.

Concrete countertops

Concrete emerged out as a new trend in kitchen countertops. You can paint concrete countertops in any desired color, even embed stones, beads, jewels, and fossils. However, concrete countertops easily develop cracks and stains.

Stainless steel countertops

This countertop material can withstand all abuse without discoloring or rusting. Stainless steel countertops are really very easy to maintain and they keep their luster for years.

So, these are the popular countertop choices trending in the kitchen décor trends. No matter which countertop material you choose, do select apt granite countertop company for hassle free installation.

When, Why and How You Should Seal Your Granite Countertops

Granite is a luxury addition to any part of the home. In order to retain beauty, granite counter tops need sealing. Due to highly porous structure, unsealed granite counters are prone to staining and stained granite tops are really very expensive to replace. Thus, if you pay attention over granite sealing, your countertop will provide you years of services without any trouble. Granite sealing helps in avoiding countertop damages. Depending on your usage and granite quality, you require sealing.

How to Determine if Granite Countertops Need to Be Sealed

While all types of granite are porous, some forms of granite are solider than others. It means not all granite countertops demand frequent sealing. Solid granite can resist staining more efficiently even without sealing.

In order to find if your granite kitchen countertop requires sealing, you can carry out water test. Just sprinkle 2-3 drops of water on your countertop and leave the droplets there up to 15 minutes. If granite does not absorb the water droplet then, it does not require sealing. And if water droplets get completely absorbed by granite, then it needs sealing.

The granite sealing process

First, choose, high quality sealants for granite sealing. Then follow below mentioned process to seal your granite countertop:

#1: Clean your countertop using abrasive cleaners and let it dry completely before you began the sealing process.

#2: Your countertop may take up to 24 hours to get dry completely. You can see dull sheen, instead of bright shine on your granite, when it gets dry.

#3: Make sure to clear all the objects from your countertop before starting the sealing process.

#4: Using a dry cloth to apply sealant on the surface of your countertop. Start from corners and then move further. This action will provide maximum coverage.

#5: Do not use your newly sealed countertop for some time.

#6: You will get scintillating countertop after sealing! Enjoy.

In order to minimize the granite sealing efforts, you should consider purchasing good quality granite. Choose reputable and trustworthy granite company for purchasing the quality product. Not all companies provide same quality granite.

Increase beauty of your home with Kitchen countertop

Select the best kitchen countertop

Kitchen countertops are essential in a kitchen. They are the backbone of the kitchen. The kitchen countertop is the main base to prepare dishes. Each and every minor kitchen work depend on these strong kitchen countertop because hot cookware’s, oven and daily food material is placed on it. Appearance of kitchen countertop adds look into the kitchen it makes a simple looking kitchen to modular kitchen. If you are planning to upgrade your kitchen, then you have a variety of options. Marble, kitchen countertops, Quartz Kitchen Countertops, Granite countertops, Solid Surface Kitchen Countertops, Bamboo surface countertops are most attractive and strongest countertops you can choose any of them.Each of this attractive kitchen countertop comes with a different style and quality. So now let us have a glance at each of these kitchens countertop made up of different material which possesses different quality.

Ideal options for kitchen countertops:

Marble kitchen countertops look very elegant and add beauty to the kitchen. As marble is very strong material so there is no chance of breakage. It also retains coolness which makes it even more perfect to use.

Quartz Kitchen Countertops are another great option they come with beautiful texture of pigments. Quartz Kitchen countertops are made by engineers who make it very hard as well as heat resistant.

Granite is considered the favorite among all material in homes. Granite countertops are most strong kitchen countertops as granite is the hard stone and it can resist tremendous heat. It is available in various beautiful and attractive designs having different tones and shades.

Solid Surface Kitchen Countertops are made up of solid acrylic or a blend of acrylic and polyester which is then shaped into any custom shape for your kitchen. Solid surface resists both tints & moistness and controls the growth of bacteria. This attractive kitchen countertop is durable and easy to clean.

Bamboo surface countertops are eco-friendly countertops. The natural beauty of bamboo gives your countertop a unique natural appeal and warmth. It is very durable as well as affordable; its maintenance is also very low and also very easy to clean.