Tag Archives: best countertops

What to Look for In a Countertop Installer

When it comes to home improvement, you will only want a professional to help you with it. Renovating a part of your house – or even the entire house – requires years of experience and reputable skills. Even installing a countertop in your bathroom or kitchen should be done by the best granite countertop installers around.

Speaking of countertops, it is one of the best investments you can make for your home. More importantly, you should choose the best kitchen countertops around to make the most out of your money. For one thing, quality granite kitchen countertops, marble countertops, or other countertop materials can largely improve a kitchen or bathroom’s overall appearance.

Factors to consider when looking for a countertop installer

There are a lot of countertop installers claiming to be the best in their field. That is why choosing the best among them can be challenging. That said, it is important to scrutinize each contractor which will ensure they only provide the best service. Here are some deciding factors when choosing a professional countertop installer.

Do they have accreditations or certifications?
Do they offer various countertop material options for their customers?
Do they have a showroom where customers can check out different slab materials before buying it?
Do they always have a stock of each slab material in case a customer wants to check it out?
Do they also carry other bathroom and kitchen accessories (ex. faucet, sinks, backsplashes, etc.)?
Will they be the one to install the countertop, or a third-party will take care of it?
If they will be the one to install, are their personnel certified or licensed to do it?
Do they also offer warranties, consultations, and repairs in case of product defects and damages?

Countertop replacement can be a tedious task. That is why it is best left in the hands of industry professionals.

Other countertop installer-hunting tips

Here are other tips when looking for a professional countertop installer:

Ask for suggestions/recommendations.

For one, you can check out online reviews (if the company has an official website or a “Google My Business” entry) from actual customers. If you personally know someone who previously worked with a countertop contractor, you can ask feedback from them as well. Make sure you get the company’s contact number in case you are interested to know more about them.

Have several options.

It is important to have different options for countertop contractors in case your first choice does not meet your requirements. More importantly, choose ones that are established and reputable, and has a lot of positive reviews.

Request for written estimates.

Make sure to have written estimates acquired from them, and that they should visit your home to have a look at the work area. If you purchase a countertop from another supplier, make sure to let the installers know. This will help them determine the estimated amount for the entire installation process. The estimate will become an official document once signed and agreed on.

Trust your instinct.

Sometimes, your instinct might be telling you right. There’s no harm in following it, as long as you did your own research and believe that this is the contractor you are looking for.

Before countertop installation

Before having your countertop installed by granite contractors, you should first have a specific plan. For example, you may have a dilemma which should be installed first especially if you also have a new appliance that will be installed as well. For the latter, it should match the size of your current appliances so it won’t take up too much space.

Also, make sure you measure the countertop properly because again, space issues may arise. It should meet your functional requirements and not just because it looks nice on your kitchen or bathroom. More importantly, you should choose the best countertop materials so it can last for many years.

Hire the best countertop contractors near you

If you are considering getting countertop replacement in Durham, make sure to hire only the best countertop contractors around. Choosing a quality countertop can truly make a difference in your home. Contact one today and ask for a free estimate for your next home improvement project.

Why You Should Choose Granite Countertop for Your Bathroom

Choosing the best-quality bathroom countertop material can be a challenge. After all, you would want to get one that looks attractive and can last for years. One popular option is using granite countertops. You can have yours by contacting granite countertop installers near you.

Experts say that countertops made from granite are among the most highly-recommended for bathrooms. Aside from its attractive and classic look, granite countertops can also tolerate moisture. This trait is crucial when looking for a durable countertop for your kitchen and bathroom. That said, its popularity may seem to last for years to come.

Such type of countertops has its own set of pros and cons. By knowing these, you should be able to decide whether a countertop made from granite is the right choice for your home.

Pros

First, are the advantages of having countertops offered by granite companies. Here are some of them:

It is durable and long-lasting.

Granite stone is durable and long-lasting. It is also resistant to scratches, cracks, chips, and other damages. Likewise, granite material is also heat-resistant unlike other countertop materials like laminate and wood. That said, countertops made from granite material may not need a replacement for several years.

It is chemical-resistant.

Apparently, any types of chemicals cannot easily damage a granite countertop material. However, make sure not to abuse your countertop as too much exposure to chemicals may deteriorate its sealer. In effect, you may have to reseal it earlier than scheduled.

It is easy to maintain.

For best results, your countertop should be taken care of by granite contractors during the installation process. When properly installed and sealed, it can help resist the occurrence of bacteria, dirt, and any other staining and potential damage on the countertop. At the same time, a properly-installed countertop can make maintenance easier and hassle-free.

It can help boost your property’s value.

Not only a granite countertop can make your bathroom and your entire home attractive but also highly-marketable. In fact, it can produce a return of investment of as much as 100 percent. Because it’s naturally durable, it offers value-for-money for a lot of homeowners.

It is pleasing to the eyes.

One of the major deciding factors when choosing any item for personal use is physical appeal. The same applies when buying a countertop for your home. Its natural and classic appearance can suit all types of homes.

Cons

Meanwhile, granite kitchen countertops also have their set of cons. Among these include the following:

It is a porous material.

Being porous, it means it may absorb liquid substances when left on the surface for a long time. As a result, it can potentially damage the countertop material. However, this can be prevented if you wipe off the countertop immediately and prevent potential damage. To lessen its porosity, sealer is applied on the granite material to protect against rapid liquid absorption.

It can be expensive.

Aiming for high-quality countertops come with a price, literally. While not all granite materials are expensive, make sure to budget a good amount of cash if you want to have a nice countertop for your home. This does not include the fabrication and installation costs yet.

It has limited color options.

Since granite is a natural stone, it offers limited colors and patterns. If you want a wide assortment of color and pattern options you can choose from, opt for quartz and laminate materials.

How much will it cost?

Granite is a naturally-beautiful countertop material. It also offers several benefits which makes it a great choice for your home. However, granite material can be expensive, depending on the type of granite you choose. On a positive note, you can still get granite material even when you’re on a budget.

Usually, a standard granite countertop may cost about $50 to $60 per linear foot, including installation and materials. While it may not be of the highest quality around, it does have its classic beauty nonetheless.

On the other hand, higher-quality granite material can cost as much as $70 per linear foot. It also offers durability and resistance against scratching and other types of damage. For high-end granite material, expect to shell out as much as $200 and above per linear foot.

Invest in a high-quality countertop for your bathroom

No matter where you are going to use the countertop – the kitchen or the bathroom – it is important to choose the one you can use for many years. Also, make sure to have yours installed only by the best granite countertop installers in Raleigh.

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.

7 exclusive ideas to transform your bathroom

Cultured Marble Vanity Tops

When it comes to remodeling their bathroom, many people find it intimidating. However, the fact is that bathroom renovation is one of the most effective ways to increase the value of your property, without draining your entire fortune. In fact, it will also improve your overall living experience and satisfaction, if you do it in the right way. In case you are running short of low-cost renovation ideas, here are some exclusive bathroom remodeling ideas for your residence.

Minimalist ideas for achieving an elegant look:

If you prefer minimalist designs, then you can play with the white background and match your vanities, mirror and the wall tiles. Use the Silestone countertops and the mosaic backslash tiles to comply with the marble flooring. Add the final touch with the nickel fixtures.

Try experimenting with quirky tiles:

If you love a funky background, then try out mixing and matching tiles in the zigzag pattern. Increase the depth of the floor by using the monochromatic tiles, with patches of gray to break the pattern. Place a dark vanity, with matching accessories and a final touch up with bronze fixtures.

Curtail your budget with bold wallpapers:

If you want to change the wall styling, but do not want to invest in the expensive backsplash tiles, then you may try out the bold wallpapers to complement the lightly shaded vanity. Use chrome fixtures, to accentuate the beauty.

Get the rustic look of the flooring:

If you are planning to change the bathroom tiles, you must try out the rustic wood-look tile flooring. Choose matching vanity and bronze fixtures to complement them.

The freestanding tub with wall-mounted vanities for the illusion of space:

If you have limited space in your bathroom, you can try out installing the freestanding bathtubs. The wall-mounted vanity also saves a lot of space and makes it eye-soothing. Use ceramic tile flooring and marble countertops, to create a statement piece with your tub.

Lighting fixtures can create huge difference:

Depending on your preference, you may opt to lit your bathroom dimly or in an exotic way. If you have a marble flooring, white tiles and matching vanity, you need to worry no more about lights. But, if you are using the rustic wooden tiles, granite countertops or the patterned backsplash tiles, then you may consider the option of placing the lights on either side of the bathroom mirror for the sophisticated appearance.

Have you tried the ‘go-green’ theme?

Use a vertical molding to increase the depth of your bathroom. Paint the walls green, to create the illusion of higher ceilings. Use dark vanity, if you have a bamboo surfaced countertops and couple it with brushed nickel fixtures to ensure a taste of greenery in your bathroom.

Freshen up your kitchen decor with trendy Silestone countertops

Silestone countertops best for kitchen remodeling

When it comes to make a choice about improvement in your kitchen it is really very tough to decide where to start from. But if you find your kitchen a little bit or more outdated then the easiest thing which you can do to chance its look is a chance the countertop. This chance may come out as a little bit pricy investment for you, but if you choose the right countertop the spending of money may not seem a big deal. Nowadays the Silestone countertops are gaining so much popularity among the crowd. The Silestone countertop is made up of natural quartz and is extremely hard and supple and along with it the Silestone countertops also have the antimicrobial characteristic which makes it the best option for any kind of usage. So if you are thinking to remodel your kitchen then, then remodel kitchen with Silestone countertops and enhance the look of your kitchen in the best way possible.

Advantages of the Silestone countertops

There is no doubt that the Silestone countertops are one of the best countertops which you can choose to remodel your kitchen or your bathroom. This countertop adds up the beauty to your place, but along with enhancing the appearance of your house there are a number of advantages associated with the Silestone countertop. Just have a look over the benefits of Silestone countertop installation at your place.

The Silestone countertop freshen up the look of your place
Strong enough to bare any kind of stress
The Silestone countertops are a low maintenance countertop. You do not have to spend a large amount of money or time to take care of your counter top
Made up of natural quartz. Hence, making it more comfortable to use
Resistant to acids and alkali matter
No color fading due to sun rays or UV radiation
The main advantage of Silestone countertop is that, it is bacteria resistant. Therefore, it can be used in kitchen or bathrooms with out and tension.

The above mentioned are a few advantages of the Silestone countertops, so if you wish to remodel your kitchen, include the Silestone countertop in your wish list.

What should I use to build my kitchen countertops?

Kitchen Countertops

Are you thinking of installing new kitchen countertops? There are virtually endless countertop options to consider! Most modern kitchens and traditional kitchen designs include some kind of granite countertops. Granite is an extremely popular kitchen countertop material because is it pleasing to the eye, easy to clean and not easily marked by kitchen knives and other utensils. Some other great countertop options for the kitchen include solid surface countertops, recycled glass countertops, quartz countertops and aluminum countertops. You can even install a separate butcher block countertop so you can chop and cook meat away from the rest of your food.

Countertop Contractors

More and more homeowners are becoming interested in eco friendly countertop options to help lower their impacts on the environment! Recycled countertop materials can look just as new and and just as pliable as brand new countertops. We recommend working with a professional countertop contractor to find the best and cheapest eco friendly countertop materials in your area. There are often discount countertop options available as well whether you are looking for LEED certified green countertops or other choices such as soapstone countertops and marble countertops. Once your new kitchen countertop is installed, countertop resurfacing services may be needed every few years.

What are the best eco-friendly countertop options available?

Looking for environmentally friendly kitchen countertops? You’ve come to the right place! The Countertop Factory provides a virtually endless selection of the best countertops on the market, including eco countertops and Icestone countertops, which create less of an impact on the environment to make. Regardless of whether you are seeking kitchen or bathroom countertops, you are sure to find the very best countertops to suit your needs among our selection! No one else in North Carolina has nearly as much experience with countertop repair and countertop installation as our very own countertop contractors. If you’re not sure which type of countertop is right for your home, we would be happy to help you narrow down your selection from our countertop options!

If you are looking for granite countertops for the kitchen, you will find them with us. Some other popular countertop ideas for the kitchen include solid surface countertops such as Formica countertops, as well as quartz countertops such as Silestone countertops. Butcher block countertops are also a great choice for the kitchen! On the other hand, a few of our most popular choices for the bathroom include limestone countertops, recycled glass countertops and soapstone countertops. We hope to work with you soon!

Who are the most experienced countertop installers in North Carolina?

Are you looking for new laminate countertops for your kitchen? You’re in the right place! At The Countertop Factory, we provide the widest range of countertop options in North Carolina. Whether you are looking for butcher block countertops for your kitchen or recycled glass countertops for your bathroom, we have got you covered! When you work with us, we guarantee that you’ll find the best countertops for any room of the house. Just a few of our most popular materials include granite countertops, marble countertops, tile countertops and silestone countertops. We offer a large number of discount countertops to our loyal customers, so make sure to ask our countertop contractors about our sales!

We offer many popular granite countertop brands, including Corian countertops, Cambria countertops and Formica countertops. We also have many eco countertops options if you are interested in a more environmentally friendly option. Additionally, if you are not satisfied with any of our ready made wood countertops, we would be happy to create custom countertops for you in our very own countertop shop. Take a look at our countertop photos to get an idea of the stainless steel countertops and copper countertops we have installed for our North Carolina customers in the past.

How can I remove a stain from my granite kitchen countertop?

For the best countertop repair and countertop cleaning services in North Carolina, The Countertop Factory is just a phone call away! We provide the most complete granite countertop service in the state including cleaning, repairs and countertop painting. If you are looking for new bathroom countertops altogether, we can make a number of recommendations based on your needs and budget. Some of our most popular countertops options for the bathroom aside from the traditional granite include recycled glass countertops, stainless steel countertops, soapstone countertops, copper countertops and quartz countertops. If you are not satisfied with our ready-made selection of laminate countertops and glass countertops, we can always make custom countertops for you right here in our countertop shop!

In addition to our selection of stone bathroom countertops, we are also well known for our wide selection of kitchen countertops. A few of our most popular options for the kitchen are butcher block countertops, silestone countertops, slate countertops, bamboo countertops and Corian countertops. Whichever room of the house in which you wish to install new countertops, you can rest assured you are purchasing the best countertops around, made from the finest materials available. Experience from over 20 years in the business has never steered us wrong!

How do you install a kitchen countertop?

There are dozens of countertops that would look great in your kitchen. If you’re thinking of redesigning your kitchen but you aren’t sure of your countertop options, have no fear! The countertop contractors at The Countertop Factory are brimming with endless kitchen countertop ideas to turn your average kitchen into a chef’s paradise! We have been installing countertops in North Carolina kitchens for years and provide the widest selection of materials around. Some of our most popular kitchen countertop options include butcher block countertops, laminate countertops, stainless steel countertops and recycled glass countertops. Granite countertops are perhaps our single most popular item, and look great in any area of the house.

If you’re looking for a particular brand of stone countertops, we’ve got a number of very popular ones from which to choose. For example, we carry a large load of Corian countertops, Cambria countertops and Silestone countertops. Whether you are looking for high quality stone countertops or discount countertops, you have come to the right place. Some of our best countertops to use as bathroom countertops are slate countertops, soapstone countertops, quartz countertops and wood countertops. Be sure to get in touch with us soon so we can get started on improving the quality of your kitchen counters!