Tag Archives: countertop installers

Tricks to Keep Your Countertops in Top Shape

You recently finished remodeling your kitchen and installed gorgeous new worktops. Even if your countertops are new, you should know that your countertops can still sustain damage in a variety of ways, even if they are composed of a sturdy material like quartz .

Here are a few tips to preserve the quality of your kitchen countertops for many years, if not decades, to come.

Seal the countertops

Stone worktops are renowned for requiring little upkeep. Thus, a lot of people frequently overlook the fact that a lot of stone varieties are porous and may absorb liquids, which might result in stains. If you periodically seal your counters, you can prevent this problem.

The cool thing is that sealing is easy if you have the right supplies.

If you have soapstone countertops, you don’t need to seal them. This is because soapstone is so dense that it cannot hold water. To guarantee that the stone’s patina is evenly developed, you should oil the soapstone.

If you aren’t sure whether you should seal the countertops, try this test:

Apply a tsp of water to the concerned countertop.
Give the water 15 to 30 minutes to settle.
Clean up the water. You should seal your counters if the water leaves a stain. But don’t worry, the water stain will fade and dry.

You can seal the countertops by yourself, but for the best outcome, let a professional help you out.

Regardless of the person who installs the sealers, you should install high-quality sealers. Some of the many options you have include:

Penetrating sealers: They create a barrier that keeps stains, moisture, and damage out of your countertops by absorbing into their pores.

Topical sealers are a popular option in kitchens with high traffic since they give the countertop’s surface an extra layer of protection.

Laminate sealers: Available in huge rolls that can be cut to size and applied directly to the countertop surface, laminate sealers are designed to give a layer of protective skin to your countertop.

To ensure that your countertops always look brand new, you can update laminate sealers when they start to show signs of wear and tear.

Water-based sealers: These are a safer, greener alternative with strong damage prevention since they contain fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

Solvent-based sealers: Solvent-based sealers are incredibly long-lasting and resilient, providing excellent protection for outdoor surfaces that are frequently exposed to different elements.

Matte or gloss sealers: To match any kind of surface, these sealers come in matte and gloss finishes for you to choose from.

Use the right cleaning supplies.

Numerous cleaning solutions contain acids, which could cause your counter’s surface to get etched. When using products that contain citric acid or vinegar, exercise extreme caution because these cleaners are acidic and have the ability to etch stone over time.

Since phosphoric acid is a slightly stronger cleaning agent, it should also be avoided. Sometimes, bathroom tile, sink, and tub cleansers contain phosphoric acid.

You can clean your kitchen counters with a variety of mild cleaning solutions, like dish soap. For even more cleaning power, try mixing dishwashing soap and water with rubbing alcohol.

Another fantastic tool that you can use to keep your counters clean is a stone cleaner, which you may use if your countertops are made of genuine stone.

Protect your surfaces with trivets.

Any type of countertop has the potential to be highly heat-sensitive. Heat can cause some countertops to discolor, while it can also melt, break, or distort others. This is why it’s critical to create a barrier of protection between hot pans and countertops by using trivets, hot pads, or other types of pads to prevent heat from coming into direct contact with the countertops.

On some surfaces, a trivet can also be a visually pleasing element that adds to the look of the kitchen. While colorful ceramic trivets can be used to liven up a wood countertop, bamboo trivets go nicely with quartz or marble countertops.

Although there are many different kinds of stone used to make cutting boards, you should never use your countertop for this purpose. This is because you could scratch or gouge your countertops. This is particularly true if your countertops are made of marble, which is a softer stone.

To be on the safe side, always have a wooden cutting board in place. While a plastic board would do, you should note that many people tend to cut small pieces of plastic that usually end up in the food. You don’t want this, do you? So always use a wooden cutting board.

Clean spills as soon as they happen

Your counters may get etched by more than just cleaning solutions with acidic content. Foods high in acid have also been linked to damage. So you should be cautious with them.

You should clean red wine, white wine, soy sauce, and other acidic food spills as soon as possible to prevent stains.

You should note that an unnoticed spill is less likely to result in damage if your counters are securely sealed, so before you even rush to remove the spill, first ensure that the countertops are appropriately sealed.

Stop sitting or stepping on the countertops.

Even though stone countertops are famed for their strength, they might not be able to support your weight when you replace a lightbulb or reach into a cabinet to find a pot.

Due to this, it’s crucial to avoid standing or treading on your counters for safety reasons. An excellent way to go about it is to have a stool in the kitchen where you can sit when cooking. It’s also wise to have a ladder in close proximity to replace the bulb.

In the event that someone stands or sits on the countertops and develops any chips or cracks, you should have them fixed as soon as possible.

Parting shot

These are some of the tricks you can use to ensure that your countertops last for as long as possible. To have an easy time maintaining your countertops, ensure expert granite countertop installers NC or any other reputable professionals install them.

Are Peel and Stick Countertops a Reliable Way to Cover Your Surfaces?

Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, it makes sense to want to create a space that is visually appealing to you. However, home renovation projects can be expensive and almost impossible if you do not own the property.

If you’ve been considering changing bathroom, laundry room, or kitchen countertops, you may have encountered a peel-and-stick countertop cover while researching.

Before we go into this seemingly simple solution, here’s everything you need to know about peel-and-stick countertops. You will also know which applications they’re great for and when to avoid them.

What are peel-and-stick countertops?

Peel-and-stick countertops are a wallpaper-like material with a sticky backing that you can easily apply to your current countertops. They come in a range of colors and styles, such as faux marble, granite, gold, soapstone, and concrete.

Most peel-and-stick countertops are made of a PVC vinyl foundation with a printed picture or pattern. The production process is comparable to vinyl flooring, but the quality and durability aren’t as high.

Peel and stick countertops do not have the same level of differentiation, most likely because there are fewer prominent producers in the area.

When is it wise to go for peel-and-stick countertops?

Peel and stick countertops are more of a temporary remedy than a permanent one.

While this is the case, the counters are useful in some instances. For example, they’re a quick and inexpensive solution for outdated or damaged countertops, and they can serve as an interim cover-up while you save for the real thing.

They can also be adequate in auxiliary areas of the home, such as the basement or an extra bathroom.

The counters are also an excellent option for tenants who can’t pull out existing countertops. If you live in a rental house with outdated countertops or don’t like the current look, peel-and-stick countertops can be a low-cost, temporary approach to make the rental area feel more like your own.

The beauty is that the countertops can be easily removed when it’s time to move out.

How to apply and remove the countertops

If you decide to go this route, keep in mind that peel-and-stick countertops vary in quality. For the best quality, go with the thickest material available—veneers at least four millimeters thick—so that the product can withstand scratches and better disguise bumps and faults on your current countertops.

In terms of application, the process is quite simple but requires some patience. When buying the material, buy extra in case of mishaps and keep a squeegee on standby to remove air bubbles after installation.

For removal, heat from a hairdryer to one corner to melt the glue. You should slowly pull the counter up, heating and melting as you go.

To give you a sense of quality and longevity, most warranties last around five years. However, if the countertops are in a high-traffic area, the wear will most certainly occur considerably sooner, even with a higher-grade product.

Situations to avoid peel-and-stick countertops

These countertops are best suited for secondary, low-traffic areas of your home, where their poorer appearance and performance will be less noticeable. This calls for you to be cautious where you place the countertops.

As a rule of thumb, never place the countertop on a kitchen island countertop or your primary bathroom in a busy home. This is because they will quickly get damaged.

If your ultimate goal is to stay within a budget when designing and creating your dream kitchen or bathroom, you should know that there are numerous cost-cutting options worth trying initially.

A smart contractor or interior designer can assist you navigate that environment, and there is plenty of information available online that you can use to your advantage.

Peel and stick countertop best practices.

Once you’ve successfully placed your peel-and-stick countertop, make sure to clean and maintain it properly to keep it looking its best. Regular cleaning and maintenance will help extend the countertop’s lifespan and keep it in excellent condition.

Begin by washing off the countertop regularly using a soft cloth or sponge and a moderate, non-abrasive cleanser. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleansers, which might damage the surface or remove the protective covering.

To remove harder stains or spills, gently scrub brush or non-scratch scouring pad in conjunction with the mild cleanser. Scrub the area gently in a circular motion, taking care not to apply too much pressure, which may scrape the surface.

After cleaning, thoroughly rinse the countertop with water to eliminate any remaining cleaner residue. Wipe it dry with a clean cloth to avoid water spots or streaks from appearing.

When it comes to maintenance, it’s best to avoid placing hot pans or pots directly on the countertop surface, which can cause damage or discoloration. Always use trivets or hot pads to protect surfaces from heat.

Similarly, be mindful of sharp or abrasive things that may scratch the surface. Use cutting boards or another safe surface when dealing with knives or other instruments.

Regularly inspect the countertop’s edges and seams for signs of lifting or peeling. If problems arise, apply a small bit of glue or double-sided tape to keep them in place.

Parting shot

Peel and stick countertops can provide a low-cost, temporary “lipstick makeover” in rooms you don’t own, don’t use frequently, or can’t afford to renovate right now.

In all other circumstances, you’re probably better off investing extra in something that will withstand time and traffic.

The good thing is that you can choose from plenty of options. You can use granite countertops Raleigh, marble, and many other materials. Regardless of the ones you settle on, ensure they complement your home. You also should ensure they are installed by experienced contractors who know what they are doing.

Things to Consider When Hiring a Kitchen Countertop Company

Hiring kitchen countertops installers for the first time? Here are things to look out for to hire the right ones:

Online reviews

Online reviews have become an important part of any business, and customers base their buying decisions on them.

Is the company’s reputation based on independently verifiable reviews? If so, how many do they have, does management respond to them, and how highly regarded are they?

Take a look at Google, Yelp, Facebook, and other online review sites. Read the reviews thoroughly to determine what to expect, how well the organization addressed problems, and how satisfied the consumer was.

Installing kitchen countertops is a big investment, so researching ahead of time could save you a lot of headaches later.

While hiring a company with many positive reviews, you shouldn’t go for one with a perfect score. This is because it’s rare for a company to have all the reviews positive regardless of how good they are.

While true, you shouldn’t work with a company with many negative reviews. If a company has many negative reviews, you should avoid it as it’s most likely an awful company and will give you a bad experience.

To stay on the safe side, work with a company that has at least four stars.

Price Transparency

Before you start working with any company, you should ask for price quotes. Of course, you should ask for quotes from at least five companies to compare them.

When you receive the quotes, take your time going over them. Don’t be fooled by the price alone and fall for the typical bait and switch. Some businesses will quote a lower-quality product to get you in the door, only to upsell you to a much more expensive product. You don’t want this, do you?

Companies may, for example, quote a thinner or less expensive countertop material with a standard edge to make the price appear lower. One of the things you will hear in such a scenario is the expected costs after installation.

As you can tell, you end up paying more than you planned.

To avoid this and have a better idea about the amount you should expect to pay, you should work with a company that is transparent about its price.

When asking for a quotation, don’t ask for the ballpark. Instead, ask for the price of each item.

Before you decide to work with a company, review every item they will use and confirm that they won’t increase the price later.

To protect yourself, it would be better if you have the company sign an agreement that the amount they quote will remain unchanged.

Communication

A lack of communication is one of the most common concerns about any home renovation project. Look for a company with customer support and scheduling teams to which you may turn for project updates.

When interacting with a company, ask yourself whether you will have a dedicated team to answer all your questions. If you have been trying to contact the company without success, chances are you won’t reach it when you start working together.

Many businesses are concerned with completing as many jobs as possible but don’t place communication at the top. Choose a company committed to keeping you informed about what is happening, and you can easily reach them when needed.

Besides communication, you must ensure that the company maintains the highest quality standards. The quality assurance department is the first thing you should check before working with a company.

You want a company with such a department that gives you peace of mind and will provide you with the best service possible.

Professionalism

How long has the company been in operation? Will they still be there in a year if you encounter problems on the job? What is the size of the operation?

You’d be shocked at how unskilled and small many enterprises are, frequently failing to meet demand and, as a result, delaying your installation. Choose a business with extensive experience in their field.

Ask if the measurement and installation teams are outsourced when getting an estimate. You also should ask about the technology they use during the installation.

You want a company that uses cutting-edge technology to ensure accurate measurements the first time. Nothing is more frustrating than going through the entire process only to have a poor installation with uneven seams and gaps that don’t look correct.

Protection Plan

Make sure that the company will stand behind their work. Be aware of companies that do not provide a warranty. The plan should cover everything from countertop installation to sinks, faucets, and backsplash for at least five years.

When you work with a company with a protection plan, you have peace of mind as you know they will give you excellent service.

Physical location

Can you visit a convenient location, look at kitchen ideas, and speak with a representative? There’s no substitute for seeing Quartz, Quartzite, Granite, and Marble countertops Durham in person.

Feeling the stone and observing the beautiful, unique patterns and veining is much better than seeing the stone in pictures or videos.

To better understand how your property will look once the countertops have been installed, work with a company with a physical office. This way, you can visit the location and experience the stone, which helps you make a better decision.

A wide range of services and products

Ideally, your remodel partner should provide multiple services to eliminate the need to shop around.

The last thing you want is someone that only provides one service. As much as they will do the task better, you will have to work with multiple contractors, which might be too much for you.

For example, you don’t want to hire a contractor to install the countertop stone, and they can’t install the cabinets. To be safe, work with a contractor that is all around and provides all the services in-house.

Guide to Taking Care of The Various Countertop Materials

You have to take good care of your countertops to last for a long time. Since different countertops have different features, you take care of them differently. How do you take care of your countertops? There are plenty of ways to go about it. Here is how to do it:

Quartz countertops

Quartz countertops are loved by many for their heat, stain, and scratch-resistant nature. The countertops are also non-porous, so you don’t need to seal them.

To maintain their elegant look, prevent the stains from coming about as much as possible. One of the ways to go about this is to never place hot pans on them. You should note that while the countertops are heat resistant, they aren’t heatproof. This means that when you place hot items on them, they will get damaged.

To protect the units, always have hot pads or trivets on them.

If stains develop on the countertops, apply a paste of hydrogen peroxide and flour on them. A good rule of thumb is to apply the paste on the surfaces and then let it sit for up to 24 hours.

In most cases, the paste will lift the spot right out within this time.

Wooden countertops

To keep your butcher block wooden countertops in top shape, apply mineral oil to them at least once a month. If your countertops aren’t butcher block, apply marine oil that will prevent the countertops from fading.

You should prevent burns and other marks from your countertops as much as possible, but if they come about, sand them out. For the stains, remove them using hydrogen peroxide or lemon juice.

Soapstone

Since it’s naturally non-porous, soapstone doesn’t require any sealing. Unfortunately, it’s soft and prone to nicks and scratches. Due to this, you should be ultra-cautious when preparing your meals or working around surfaces.

The countertops are also prone to discoloration, but luckily, you can easily get rid of them when you catch them early on. To remove slight discoloration, rub it out using mineral oil.

Marble countertops

Marble countertops usually require high maintenance than other countertop materials. Since they are naturally porous, they require regular sealing to prevent stains.

The porous nature of the countertops also makes them susceptible to etching, so you should be ultra-cautious when interacting with them.

Chemical corrosion is common with these countertops, but you can buff it with marble polish. For the oil stains, remove them using hydrogen peroxide, ammonia, or mineral spirits.

In the event food stains develop, lift them with water-based paste or dish soap and baking soda.

Laminate countertops

The most common problem with laminate countertops are stains. Luckily, you can get rid of the stains using a paste of baking soda and water. Leaving the paste on the countertops for 3-5 minutes will remove most surface stains.

If you have hard-to-remove stains, remove them using household bleach. For the best outcome, rub the bleach gently on the surfaces with a cotton ball.

Stainless steel countertops

The major issue with stainless steel countertops is the never-ending scratches on the surface that give the surfaces an ugly look.

Luckily, you can buff the scratches out with an abrasive pad.

Stainless is also prone to rust, but you can prevent it by avoiding the surfaces from coming into contact with a cast iron pan.

If the surfaces develop rust stains, remove them using baking soda and lemon juice paste.

Solid surface countertops

If there are fine scratches or stains on the surfaces, buff them out using a mild abrasive. Even with the best care, it’s common for countertops to develop a plastic-like patina. When this develops, move with haste and have it removed by an experienced professional.

Granite countertops

Like marble countertops, granite countertops Durham are porous, so you have to seal them regularly to prevent stains from developing. To tell whether your surfaces are ripe for sealing, you should splash water on them and seal them.

If the water gets absorbed, it’s time to seal them.

Besides sealing the surfaces, also take care of the items you place on the surfaces, as you don’t want to ruin them.

How Can You Tell The Quality Of Granite?

fabricated granite countertops

You have decided to install granite countertops in your home. You visit different stores and identify a few slabs you like but you aren’t satisfied with just any slab—you want the best of the best. How can you tell the quality of granite? You wonder.

To help you out, here are some of the things you should look out for to tell the granite quality:

Appearance

How does the slab look like? Like you can tell a quality piece of clothing, you can tell a quality granite slab.

On first look, how does the stone come across? Are there cracks, scratches, chips, dings, or discolorations on the stone? If they are present, the stone is most likely poor quality, and you should stay away from it.

You also should pay attention to is the size of the slab. A good quality slab should not exceed 1 mm in length and breadth. The thickness tolerance shouldn’t exceed 15% of the actual thickness. If buying the stone for construction work, ensure the slab is at least 15-20 mm thick.

The next thing to look out for is the color of the stone. It should be uniform and the slab should have a homogenous crystalline texture.

You can check the color by rubbing the stone with a cloth dipped in petrol or kerosene. If the cloth brings color, artificial color must have been used, so stay from that slab.

On tapping the stone, it should give a clear ringing sound. The slab should also be hard, sound, and dense. You can check how hard the stone is by pressing it with a hard object. If chips split from the slab, get a new slab.

Polishing

The polishing and cutting quality will help you know the quality of the stone. A quality granite slab should have one face properly polished and the edges straight and perfectly at a right angle.

Scrape the surface with a coin and if the coin leaves scratches, the polishing is poor quality so stay away from the stone.

Check for porosity

Granite is a natural stone and is naturally porous, but manufacturers work hard at reducing the porosity of the stone so most high-quality slabs will have shiny and less absorbent surfaces.

You can test the porosity of the stone by dropping 3-4 droplets of lemon juice on the granite surface. If the slab absorbs lemon juice quickly, granite has high porosity and not well maintained by the manufacturer.

If lemon juice leaves a white stain on top of the granite surface, it means it has a high calcite level, which is a sign of a poor quality stone.

A good quality slab shouldn’t have high porosity. It also shouldn’t stain easily.

You have found a quality slab, what next?

Once you have done your due diligence and ensured the stone you have is high quality, the next step is to take the piece of slab home and see how it looks in your house.

Plenty of homeowners have reported installing countertops, then regretted it as they didn’t like how they looked after installation. Don’t be one of these homeowners.

You might like how a slab looks at the store but when you get it home not like the look. This is because the kitchen has different design, lighting, and other factors.

To be proud of your installation, take the slab you like to your home and see how it looks there. If you don’t like the look return it to the store and get another.

When it comes to installation, don’t hire any contractor you come across. Research and find experienced and certified granite countertop installers Raleigh. The professionals will expertly install your countertops and seal them to prevent stains from developing in the future.

Installing the countertops isn’t enough—you need to take good care of them. At least once a year, ask the contractor to reseal the surfaces so they are stain proof. You also should clean the surfaces regularly to keep off dirt and other debris that might stain the surfaces and give them an off-putting look.

Finally, don’t sit or stand on the countertops as the countertops are known to crack under the extra weight. After all, they aren’t a sofa, are they?

8 Tips On How To Keep Kitchen Countertops Clear

Keeping your kitchen countertops clear of clutter not only keeps them looking good, but it also prevents accidents from coming about. Wondering how to keep kitchen counters clear? Here are tips on how to do it:

Have as little as possible on your countertops

This is the foundation of everything. Instead of having plenty of things on your surfaces, store them in organized cabinets and drawers. Save your countertop space only for the absolutely necessary essentials.

Many homeowners treat their countertops as drop-offs for keys, magazines, dirty dishes, and other items. Don’t do this.

When it comes to appliances, only have the absolutely essential ones. These are the ones that you use every day, such as coffee makers, cookers, toaster, oven, and others. A good rule of thumb is if you haven’t used it for a week, you don’t need it on your counters. Lock it up.

Don’t use the fridge as an art gallery.

Visit many homes, and you will find all things on the refrigerators: photos, notes, lists, magnets, and plenty of other things. You might have the impression that this makes you look cool, but it’s not the case. It actually makes the kitchen look dirty and disorganized.

For a cleaner kitchen, keep it simple. If you have no emotional connection to a photo, don’t need that note or magnet, get rid of it.

Have a catch-all bowl

It’s normal to have papers, knickknacks, and other small items here and there. Since you can’t always put these in storage all the time, you should have a junk bowl on your countertops to catch the items.

At the end of every week, sort through the collection and put the different items in the right place.

If you must have things on your counters, don’t leave them haphazardly there. Place them on trays or stands to avoid the messy hodge-podge look.

Stick the microwave in your kitchen island

The microwave is large and can take up a huge chunk of the precious counter space. Unfortunately, you can’t put it in the cupboard and be pulling it in and out every time you want to use it.

What is the solution to this? Stick it on the kitchen island.

Make your sink multifunctional.

When buying a new sink, go for one that performs more than one function. For example, you can go for one with mini ledges inside the sink that make it easy to easily pop in the drying rack, cutting board, wash pan and at the same time have space to stack and wash the dirty dishes.

While such a sink will be a little expensive, it will be worth it as it will save you a lot of space.

Add pretty but functional items.

You should note that having clutter-free counters doesn’t mean you can’t have anything on them. You can have your desired items, but they should be attractive and add some functionality to your counters.

For example, you can have jars on the counters that look pretty and carry grains and other materials.

Have decluttering rules

If you have many people living in the same house, have rules that will keep the counters clear. Some of the rules you can have include:

Dirty dishes should always go directly in the sink or dishwasher but never on the counter.
After cleaning the dishes, always clean the countertop surfaces.
Don’t place the paperwork on the kitchen counters.
Kitchen cabinets and drawers should always stay organized all the time, so every item in the kitchen has a place.

Add storage areas on your counters.

For items such as knife blocks and others that take up a lot of space, add more storage areas. Some of the storage ideas you can use to your advantage include:

Hook for keys
Wall hanging fruit basket
Wall-mounted paper towel holder.
Shelves for cookbooks
Wall-mounted racks for commonly used spices.
Magnetic strips or backsplash for knives and other utensils

You can also have a pocket inside your cabinet door to store your baking sheet and cutting board. Like your granite countertops Durham, keep the storage areas clean and free from unnecessary junk. You don’t want them messy and disorganized.

Is It Time To Undertake Countertop Replacement?

countertop replacement

Regardless of the type of countertops you have installed in your home, it will come a time when you will have to replace them. Do you know the right time to undertake countertop replacement? Here are signs it’s time to pull the trigger:

The countertops have serious cracks on them

Although, all types of countertops wear out, the situation is worse for low-end countertops. When you install cheap countertops, it’s only a few months or years, and you will start seeing clear signs of wear.

In some cases, the countertops are too worn out that you start seeing pressboard, wood, fiberglass, and other materials underneath.

When the countertops show clear signs of aging, repairing them won’t make things better—you have to replace them.

When installing the new countertops, don’t replace them with the same low-quality pieces—up your game and go for better, attractive, and long-lasting material.

These will not only look better, but they also will last for long; hence you won’t have to keep on replacing them.

The countertops have structural damage

Stone countertops are tough and can withstand a lot of abuse. Unfortunately, when you put a lot of pressure on them than they can handle, they are bound to get damaged.

For example, when you hit granite countertops with a meat mallet, they will get damaged.

In most cases, the countertops develop extremely unsightly damage. The damage can also be a cause of hazard to cooks, especially young children.

Other materials such as limestone scratch and break away into little particles that can get into your food.

To avoid all the hazards that come with damaged countertops, you should remove the damaged ones and replace them with new ones.

You are looking to sell the house

Do you know two of the most vital rooms in the house? The kitchen and bathroom. If your home is older, the countertops are most likely dated, damaged, or out of style; hence, these vital two rooms are in a horrible condition.

So trying to sell the house in this condition will be a tough call.

Luckily, you can quickly improve their look by replacing the countertops.

Many homeowners have the impression that they should install expensive countertops such as granite and marble. You don’t have to do this. When you install costly countertop materials, the chances are that you won’t recoup your money.

So what should you do instead?

Find an experienced countertop installer who will help you find a moderately priced countertop material that will give your house an elegant look. For the perfect look, ensure that an expert installs the countertops.

You feel the countertops are too old

If you have lived in your house for more than a decade without making major renovations, your countertops are most likely in a horrid state. If you aren’t as proud of your home as you used to be, it’s time to think about replacing the countertops.

Unlike when renovating to resell the house, you can go all out when renovating the house for your living. So there is no harm in going for the most expensive countertop material you can afford.

You shouldn’t buy expensive materials, then go ahead and hire a cheap, inexperienced contractor to install them as he/she will destroy them. So when you decide to go premium with the materials, also go premium with the contractor. Don’t hire a noob down the street.

Although, the contractor doesn’t have to be the most expensive in the city, they should show concrete evidence of experience.

There are ugly stains on the countertops

From coffee to wine, there are plenty of kitchen liquids that can cause stains on your countertops. Stained countertops look cheap and ugly, and if you have tried getting rid of the stains from the countertops without success, there is no way out, other than to replace them.

You can install any countertops in your home as long as it matches the theme of the house and doesn’t bore a hole in your pocket.

As mentioned above, work only with experienced granite countertop installers Raleigh. You don’t want people that will cause more problems than were originally there. Do you?

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!

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.

How to Keep Your Counter top Looking New

best quartz countertop

Your kitchen countertop is an investment, you need to ensure its well maintained. Without proper care and maintenance, your kitchen countertop will lose their look and diminish in value over time. It’s therefore important that you ensure you follow the right care procedure for your countertop. In this article, we give simple tips to follow to ensure that your countertop not only lasts long but also retains the shine. If you intend to sell your house, the kitchen countertop will increase the value of your home. It’s therefore important that take care of the countertop and ensure it retains the shine.

How to Keep Your Countertop Looking New

Cleaning the Kitchen Countertops

It’s important to ensure that your investment is cleaned properly to ensure it last long. If you have a granite countertop cleaning the countertop with a mild detergent and warm water regularly will help retain the shine. It’s important that you understand the countertop in your kitchen and use the right procedure to clean the countertop. Proper cleaning will ensure that you can enjoy your countertop appearance for years. Consult the granite contractor on how best to clean your countertop and you will reap long-term value from your countertop.

Follow the installers instructions

Every countertop requires a particular maintenance and care procedure and its imperative that you follow them. Consult the installers on how best you can take care of your countertop. The installer will guide you on the best detergent to use on your countertop. It’s also important to establish how resistant your countertop is to heat and stains. Make sure you follow the guide to clean spills and stains.

Use Mild cleaners and a soft cloth

The harsh cleaner may cause scratches on the countertop. They may remove the sealant and cause your countertop to stain and harbor bacteria. Make sure that you use the right cleaners for your countertop. Avoid scrubbing the countertop using harsh materials such as scrubbing pads, steel wool, and any other materials.

Keep your Countertop Away from Extreme Heat

It’s important to know the heat levels your kitchen countertop can endure. Granite countertops can endure heat up to a certain level. Too much will cause the countertop to expand and then shrink causing cracking. Use trivets when placing hot dishes on your countertop. Simple care process will ensure that your countertop is not damaged by heat and that keeps the kitchen countertop shinning and looking new for longer.

Seal the countertop as required

It’s important to ensure your granite or marble countertop is sealed after installation. If you have an old countertop, make sure you follow the sealing schedule without fail. Sealants prevent your countertops from stains and bacteria. Make sure that your granite and marble countertops are well sealed.

What to Avoid when it comes to Countertops

Exposure to hot pans

Avoid exposing your countertop to hot pans especially if they have sealant

Avoid Placing heavy items on your countertop

Placing heavy objects on your countertop because that will lead to cracking. Avoid sitting or stepping on the countertop when reaching for objects. Applying pressure on your countertop will lead to cracking.

Avoid cutting directly

Cutting directly on your countertop may cause damage to your countertop. While cutting meat or vegetables use a cutting board.

Use the recommended cleaners

The experts at the granite company will advise you on the cleaners to use. Make sure that you use the recommended cleaners for your countertop. Using harsh detergents will damage your countertop leading to loss of the shine.

Leaving spills on the countertop

Leaving spills on your countertop will result in stains. Make sure that you clean spills immediately.

Consult the professionals

If your granite, Silestone or marble countertop looks dull, consult the expert on how you can get back the shine and make your countertop to look new. Make sure that you follow the care procedure as instructed by the contractors.

A kitchen countertop plays a key role in the overall look of your house. A good-looking countertop will perk the value of your house and its important that you maintain the countertop. Make sure that you follow the cleaning procedure for each countertop and you enjoy you’re the top for years. Follow the sealing schedule if you have marble or granite countertop Durham and you can enjoy preparing those sumptuous meals without attracting bacteria’s.