Tag Archives: granite counters

7 Ways to Create Extra Kitchen Counter Space

One of the biggest annoyances of a small kitchen is the lack of counter space. Even after clearing up your kitchen countertops and putting away all of your typical space-hogging suspects, you might not succeed. And contrary to popular belief, you can’t just make extra kitchen counter space.

Expanding your work surface area is relatively simple if you’re ready to use a little imagination. To help you out, here are some creative (but simple) ways to increase the amount of counter space in your kitchen:

Have multifunctional workspaces

Regardless of your kitchen size, it will contain at least two things: a sink and a cooker top. Both of these usually wind up being dead space when not in use. Now is the time to change that. Whether it’s an inset drying rack or a custom-fit cutting board that sits perfectly across the top, make those places work harder.

Displaying attractive pots and pans on the stovetop also provides additional storage space, which is helpful if you’re short on cupboard and drawer space.

Make use of drawers

Coffee jars, spice racks, knife blocks, and cutting boards are frequent culprits of counter clutter, but the good news is that all of these items fit perfectly in drawers. It only takes a little tweaking to make them suitable for their intended use.

While adjustable inserts and dividers are useful, tailored organizers are better if you want to make the most of your space.

You can customize these to meet your unique needs, providing convenient access to kitchen supplies. Choose deep drawers to manage pots and pans, innovative pull-out designs that reveal two drawers in one, unique internal organizers, knife blocks, and even intelligent charging drawers for all your digital needs.

When organizing kitchen drawers, make sure the most accessible ones contain products you use daily. That way, you’re less likely to leave them on the side.

Layer up

Shelf risers are often associated with freeing up space in kitchen cabinets and pantry shelves, but they are equally effective when used directly on the countertop—as long as you choose a nice design. They’re also movable, so you can rearrange them depending on how you want to use your counter space.

If you must store items on your countertop, try additional kitchen organizers like stackable bins and Lazy Susans. While they do not free up counter space underneath as risers do, they make the most of the available storage space.

Create groups of items.

Smaller items scattered around the countertop can create a cluttered appearance, resulting in a messier workspace that is also more difficult to clean. Elegant-lidded containers can store lesser-used items such as dry ingredients, herbs, vitamins, pencils, etc. Still, trays are a better option for products that require frequent access (think washing liquid, sponges, cooking oils, and seasonings).

You should place grouped items on trays rather than directly on the surface. That way, you can lift everything at once when you need to wipe the sides or shift things temporarily to free up counter space for cooking.

You should limit yourself to one or two clusters for every few feet of linear counter space. If you have numerous short runs, space them out so that each stretch only contains one item. Consider clustering three or four groups together if you have a longer stretch, say four to six feet of counter space.

Have another storage space.

One of the greatest strategies for keeping counters uncluttered is to focus on other storage areas, such as organizing kitchen cabinets, deep pantry shelves, or decluttering a small kitchen. If you do this strategically, everything will have its own place, and you won’t need to store anything on countertops.

If you’re fortunate enough to be in the early phases of designing an entirely new compact kitchen layout, you can make things a lot easier by incorporating a few ‘creative’ space-saving storage solutions or a pull-out counter if you have the space.

Don’t hesitate to collaborate with a joiner or designer. They can propose creative storage solutions for odd nooks and recesses. Using pocket doors in a compact kitchen is an excellent way to expand additional food prep and storage facilities, such as a pantry, without wasting valuable floor space.

Take full advantage of early planning by selecting as many built-in appliances as possible. Other options include purchasing a microwave-equipped oven or installing a hot water tap instead of a hefty kettle.

Have portable workspaces

Portable kitchen island ideas are perfect for making more room in small kitchens in terms of surface and storage. They’re also versatile; the top may be used as an extra countertop and a temporary breakfast bar, which is helpful if you have friends overnight (buy in a couple of foldable chairs or stools to pull out as needed).

You can also use the shelves underneath to store objects that generally end up on the countertop. Choose one with wheels so you can move it in and out, depending on whether you need more counter or floor space.

Hang some items on the wall.

Storing utensils upright is a sensible way to quickly and simply find what you need, which is why they are frequently kept in jars on the countertop near the stove.

While storing them in a drawer is a practical solution, using vacant wall space, such as a backsplash, is significantly more space-efficient and can also look rather elegant.

Consider using a wall rail with hooks. In addition to kitchenware, you can hang oven mitts, tea towels, cleaning brushes, and even little herb pots; just make sure they are far away from any open flame.

Parting shot

You can use these strategies to create extra space in your kitchen counters. Whether you have granite countertops NC or any other type of countertop, it’s your responsibility to work with experts who will not only hold your hand when building your kitchen but also guide you in making the right decision.

Things to Do If You Hate the Color of Your Granite Countertops

Although granite countertops are attractive, long-lasting, and in style, you should know it’s normal to get bored of them. The good thing is that you can update them if you find them too busy, too dark, or simply don’t match your current design style.

To help you out, here are things you can do if you don’t like the current color of the countertops:

Paint the countertops

Consider using a granite countertop paint kit, available online and at home improvement stores, if you are content with how your kitchen is set up but would want a different look without having to pay more for something like a new Corian countertop.

Primer, paint, and epoxy are typically included in countertop resurfacing kits; some kits also include all the sanders, rollers, brushes, and other equipment you’ll need for the project.

Make sure that you adhere to the instructions included with your particular kit, however, most kits suggest taking actions akin to these:

First, use a roller to apply a coat of primer. After letting it dry, apply a second layer of primer.

Using a fresh roller brush, apply the stone coat. Use a smaller brush for difficult-to-reach and detail areas, such as the areas around sinks, fixtures, and edges.

You should use a rotary sander to smooth the stone coat after it has dried. A shop vacuum or filtration system helps get rid of dust.

You should then dust or vacuum the surface until it is clear of all dust and debris.

After applying a second coating of stone coat and allowing it to dry, resand.

As instructed, apply the sealant coat and let it dry. It’s crucial to give this last coat enough time to cure completely before handling or causing any disturbances, as doing so may result in smudges and imperfections that are difficult to fix.

After the sealant application has dried completely, remove the protective tape.

To ensure the countertop is polished, you should apply caulk to all edges, walls, sink lines, and other required locations.

Tile over the countertops

You can tile over a granite countertop that is perfectly level, square-edged, and devoid of embellishments, curves, or a waterfall edge. Your countertops must be level and sturdy so the tiles and grout do not fracture after installation.

Water-resistant, long-lasting, and food-safe porcelain, ceramic, or comparable tiles are what you should install.

To stop water, stains, and bacteria from growing, choose non-absorbent, food-safe, resin-based, and stain-repellent grout.

Unless you choose your tile, grout, and design choices wisely, tiling over existing granite counters might make your kitchen appear less attractive, so be cautious about how you go about it.

Tile is often thought of as a less attractive, cheaper countertop material. Nevertheless, it can refresh an outdated countertop and improve how your kitchen expresses your taste.

You can rough up and scratch your countertops with a power sander and high-grit sandpaper. For the thinnest mortar to adhere to them, they must possess a particular texture.

Alternatively, you can buy and cut a ¼-inch-thick cement or tile backer board to precisely fit over your counters and glue it to the granite surface if you don’t want to install tile directly on your worktops.

For the best outcome, work with experienced contractors who will not only correctly install the tiles but also advise you on the best ones.

Install laminate sheets on your countertops.

Consider covering your granite counters with laminate sheets if ready for a new look. Though laminate comes in various solid and decorative patterns, it is rarely as attractive as granite, so you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of making the switch.

Laminate is also far less durable than granite, so you must treat your countertops more carefully if you decide to switch.

You want the granite to appear dull, so use an orbital or belt sander to remove the top layer.

Using a vacuum, clean the surfaces and remove any last bits of dust and grime.

Measure the top, sides, borders, and backsplash (if appropriate) of each countertop surface you plan to cover.

You can install any style and color of laminate, including precut laminate strips.

Use contact paper or countertop film.

Cover the granite surface with contact paper or countertop film for a less expensive, more transient upgrade that will still transform your granite worktops.

Countertop film, which resembles vinyl flooring more than typical contact paper, is more robust, resilient, and thicker than contact paper, which is less expensive and more straightforward to cut.

Both are available in various hues and designs, including marble-like patterns.

While this is the case, you should remember that this is a temporary fix that will alter the appearance for a while; it will require gentle maintenance and replacement as it wears out.

After deciding on and buying the contact paper you want, spread it across your counters and let it flatten.

Cut it to size with a straightedge, sharp scissors, or rotary cutter, then align it with your countertops to ensure a good fit.

You should peel one corner and edge first to expose the adhesive side.

Attach this side to your countertop piece by piece, working slowly and deliberately around the countertop’s surface, beginning at one edge.

As you proceed, you can smooth the film using a squeegee or wide plastic putty knife to eliminate bubbles and guarantee a snug fit.

Parting shot

If you don’t like the current look of your granite kitchen countertops Raleigh, don’t worry; there are several ways to improve their look.

You only need to choose one of the given ways and run with it. You can make some of the changes yourself, but let a professional help you for the best outcome.

How Can You Tell Good Quality Granite When Buying Your Countertops?

When you buy granite countertops, you’re making a long-term investment. Due to this, you need to be cautious when making the purchase. To help you out, here is how to tell that you are buying high-quality granite:

Check the thickness of the countertops.

A significant portion of granite’s cost can be attributed to its natural form when taken from the earth. Granite solidifies into enormous slabs. Once harvested, these massive blocks must be transported to a manufacturing plant, where workers chop them into commercially viable pieces.

Many producers cut some parts too thin to maximize their granite yield. When granite is excessively thin, its durability suffers, resulting in poorer-quality granite that scuffs more easily and needs to be replaced years sooner than thicker pieces.

High-quality granite countertops must be 1 to 1 ¼ inches thick. So, you should measure the thickness of your countertops when buying and ensure they are the right size.

Find out the origin of the countertops.

No location can claim a monopoly on the granite industry. It can be found worldwide, from China to Europe and the Americas. Granite’s provenance does not always define its quality. However, the country of origin influences its pricing.

Granite slabs from China, for example, are sold at a lower cost due to reduced labor costs. Higher-cost countries, such as Italy and Brazil, demand more for quality.

In addition to labor costs, shipping charges significantly impact the price of granite. Granite is expensive to transport due to its heavy weight. This means that you can receive the best deal on granite sourced near home.

How does the granite look like?

To assess granite quality, you must inspect it closely. Do you notice any dings, dents, scratches, or uneven surfaces?

Any imperfections indicate low-quality granite. Good granite can sustain everyday household use; therefore, if yours has wear and tear, the quality is likely substandard. Also, exercise caution while acquiring any blemished granite. High-quality components are free of scratches and dings.

When making the purchase, look for cracks. Remember that even little fissures can expand into enormous chasms over time, so avoid them.

Determine the porosity of the countertop.

Top-grade granite is resistant to liquid absorption. If a chunk of granite is overly porous and allows liquids to seep inside, it is a low-quality slab with a short lifespan. In addition, extending the life of porous granite necessitates the regular application of costly sealants.

To test porosity, squeeze a drop of lemon juice onto the surface. How long does it take for the granite to absorb the liquid? If it absorbs quickly, the porosity is high, and you don’t want this. Slow or no absorption implies high-quality granite, and this is the one you should get.

Consider the grade of the countertops.

Granite countertops typically come in three grades. Before you spend your hard-earned money, buy the greatest granite for your needs. The primary grades are:

Entry-level granite: This granite is regarded as commercial grade, but it is of lesser quality. Typically, it is thinner than other grades and comes from China.

The granite is strengthened with a cardboard backing. While thinner than the other classes, it is also less expensive, making it a popular apartment option. This granite is available in various attractive colors and is quite durable. It is important to note that it is unsuitable for regularly used rooms.

Mid-grade granite: This granite is usually imported from India or Brazil. It is approximately ¾” thick and far more durable than grade 1. This option is most commonly used in homes due to its hardness and lower cost than Grade 3. It comes in a variety of distinctive and striking colors.

High-grade granite: This granite is the most expensive, ranging between $60 and $100. It is of the highest quality and contains the most unique colors and designs. High-quality granite is widely utilized for kitchen surfaces and around fireplaces.

Assess the polish quality.

The polish quality is critical to ensure you receive a high-grade granite. Low-quality polish will not withstand prolonged use. There are several ways to assess polish quality.

The first option is to use the lemon drop or water test, as described above. This test allows you to examine the porosity and polish quality at the same time.

You can also scratch the surface with a metallic material such as a coin. If the coin leaves a mark, the polishing is poor, and the granite will tarnish soon, and you don’t want this.

Work with a countertop professional.

With a bit of research and effort, you can ensure that you purchase high-quality granite countertops, which most people want.

Many people think they only need the highest-grade countertops, but this isn’t always the case. If a lower grade is appropriate for your needs, go for it.

You only need to ensure that it’s well-made and it will withstand the test of time.

Remember that the countertop industry has plenty of shady people who might try to exploit you.

Simply because you assume you are paying for a high-quality countertop does not imply that you are. Always work with a trustworthy granite countertop dealer to obtain the best value for your money.

Even after installing the countertops, you should note that you must take good care of them. This calls for you to avoid placing hot items on the countertops.

You should also seal the surfaces at least once a year. You can do the sealing yourself, but for the best outcome, let experienced granite contractors Durham help you out.

Tricks to Keep your Kitchen Countertops in Top Shape

The right kitchen countertop surfaces can be highly advantageous. High-quality countertops add value to your life and help you attract serious buyers if you ever decide to sell.

They also significantly improve the functionality of your kitchen.

Unfortunately, you can’t get these benefits when your surfaces are in horrible shape. How do you keep your kitchen countertops in tip-top condition? Here is how to go about it:

Professionally install the countertops.

Finding an experienced professional to ensure a quality installation is one of the simplest ways to ensure your kitchen countertops remain in good condition.

Keep in mind that some kitchen countertop materials necessitate a lot of upkeep. This means that maintaining your countertops will be more difficult if you’re not up to the task.

As a result, it’s advisable to start by consulting an expert to determine which kitchen countertop material is appropriate for your needs.

You should also take the time to find a kitchen renovation professional who has experience installing new worktops. Begin by asking anyone you know who has recently installed high-quality countertops you admire for a referral.

You can also look online and read reviews to find a professional to install the countertops properly.

If you’re tempted to do it yourself to save some money, don’t since there’s a steep learning curve. You don’t want to be learning on the job and ruining your expensive counters. 

When poorly done, your kitchen countertops can become skewed and have ill-fitting, improperly sealed joints, and you don’t want this, do you?

Improper installation leads to uneven surfaces, discoloration, and peeling that you don’t want on your surfaces.

If you don’t want this, you should take your time and find an experienced professional who will expertly install the countertops and advise you on the right ones to go for and take good care of them.

Clean the countertops properly.

If you apply the proper cleaning methods, your countertops will remain in excellent shape for a long time.

One of the habits you should take up is to clean the spills as soon as they happen. When you do this, you ensure that you don’t have stains on the surfaces, as you don’t let the spills stay on the surfaces for too long.

Of major importance is keeping an eye out for acidic substances, which can harm most kitchen countertops. If any acids spill on the counters, remove them immediately.

You also should make it a habit to clean your surfaces as regularly as possible. When cleaning, avoid using abrasive products as they have been shown to cause excessive damage to the characters.

As a rule of thumb, don’t use steel wool, as it’s prone to scratching the countertops, giving them an ugly appearance.

The best way to clean your surfaces is using a basic cleaning solution and a microfiber cloth. Using a microfiber cloth, in particular, can do wonders because it is incredibly absorbent and effective at removing grime.

Seal your countertops

If using synthetic countertops, you won’t need to apply a surface sealant. Unfortunately, this is a must for granite, wood, or concrete counters because the surfaces are porous, and the sealant protects against scratches, stains, and drying.

If you don’t correctly seal your porous countertops, moisture can accumulate and cause various issues, including the spread of bacteria.

This can harm the function of your countertops since if you can’t adequately clean them, they may be unsafe to use for food preparation.

Sealing the surfaces also prevents etching, which occurs when you spill liquids such as lemon juice and don’t wipe them up soon enough.

Properly sealed countertops are also easier to clean, and the sealer aids in preserving the countertops in their natural condition. 

The best time to seal the countertops is during the installation. Hiring a professional for installation is a smart option because they will know what sealant to use.

When sealing, use a high-quality sealant that will last for a long time. As much as it’s important to seal your countertops at the time of installation, you should note that this isn’t enough—countertops require regular resealing to remain in good condition.

In most cases, you will still need to reseal the surfaces at least once yearly.

Even when resealing, ensure you use a high-quality sealer for a great experience.

Keep heat away from the surfaces.

Keeping heat away from your countertops makes sense because heat is harmful and warps materials.

When materials are heated, they expand and then contract. The same thing happens to your countertops. When you expose them to heat, they get damaged by this frequent expansion and contraction.

To stay safe, ensure your cooker is not in direct contact with your counters.

You also should make it a habit to place a mat on the surfaces whenever you get something from the oven. Having a trivet in place also doesn’t hurt, as it protects your surfaces from getting damaged by a hot plate.

Pay attention to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Because countertops are built from various materials, they may have varied care and maintenance requirements. In that case, you should first contact the manufacturer of the countertops in your kitchen to see if they have any care instructions.

Even if you can’t find these instructions, you can always ask a contractor or an expert about the best approach to maintain your specific countertop brand.

Contractors with extensive expertise in installing worktops are more likely to be familiar with their care and upkeep. So, when installing, ensure that granite installers Durham or any other experienced experts handle it.

The cleaning instructions change based on the material. When cleaning laminate, for example, it’s preferable to use warm, soapy water and a textured fiber sponge.

Because granite countertops require pH-balanced cleaners, avoid natural cleaners like lemon juice, vinegar, and citrus, as they are slightly acidic.

The same is true for marble surfaces, which can be quickly harmed if you use acidic or low-pH cleaners.

To stay safe and ensure that your countertops last as long as possible, adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines as strictly as possible.

How to Redo Countertops without Replacing

If you have had your countertops for a long time, they must have lost their original look, right? Those with resources usually replace the countertops, but if you don’t have a large budget or don’t want to replace them, you can still do several things to redo the surfaces without replacing them.

How do you redo the kitchen countertops without replacing them? There are several ways to go about it. These ways include:

Paint the countertops

When done right, painting the countertops is not only economical but also gives your countertops an elegant look.

For the best outcome, use paint best suited for your countertops. For example, if you have laminate counters, go for specialist paint. You can also go for acrylic interior paint if you can access it.

For the paint to stick and give you a beautiful look you are after, you must prepare the surfaces properly. This calls for you to thoroughly clean the surfaces with a detergent and water. You should rinse the surfaces and give them time to dry before lightly sanding.

Depending on the paint you use, you might need a primer. For example, if you are using specialist paint, you need a primer, but when you are using acrylic paint, you don’t need it.

After priming the surfaces, apply the paint with a roller and use the right number of coats. Sometimes you might need to seal the paint with a resin.

Cover the countertops with contact paper

If you want to cover the countertops for the short term as you save money to improve them permanently, you can go the contact paper route.

Start with ordering contact papers from your local store. To account for mistakes, order more papers than you need. If you have never cut the papers before, you might need to practice cutting before you begin the covering.

As you practice cutting the papers, pay close attention to the corner cuts, as they often go wrong in most cases.

You should note that contact paper won’t simply stick to your old countertops. To attach the paper, you need to use waterproof glue.

As much as contact paper will cover your countertops, you should know that it’s not the most durable material, so be ultra cautious when handling it. As a rule of thumb, avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on it as it will start to peel up.

Place tiles over your countertops

If your countertops are still in good shape and you don’t like how they look, you should consider placing tiles over them.

For the tiles to stick on the countertops, ensure that the countertops are smooth and level.

When choosing the tiles, go for stain and heat-resistant ceramic tiles or porcelain that will look good and last for a long time.

You can place the tiles directly on the countertops, but you must ensure that the surfaces are clean and smooth. This calls for you to sand the surfaces and then use a special adhesive to stick the tiles on the surfaces.

If you are a dab hand at DIY projects, you can place the tiles on the countertops by yourself but if you aren’t a handy person, hire a professional to help you out.

Cover the countertops with a peel-and-stick product

If you aim to give your surfaces a new look, you can cover them with a pick-and-stick product. Like when applying the other materials, ensure that the countertops are clean.

You should then peel and stick your product of choice on the surfaces. You should note that the product sticks better on smooth surfaces, so don’t place it on damaged countertops.

Like the paper covers, peel-and-stick products aren’t meant as a permanent solution, so don’t place them on your laminate or granite countertops Durham and think that your work is done. If you want a permanent solution, you should replace the countertops.

Why You Should Consider Granite Kitchen Countertops

Are you looking for countertops to install in your kitchen? You should highly consider giving granite countertops a try. Why is this so? Well, because the countertops come with several attractive features that include:

They add value to the kitchen

There is no denying that well-installed granite counters are elegant to look at. As you can guess, this means that when you install them, they significantly increase the value of your house as people want to have them.

If you consider selling your house later, granite countertops make a lot of sense as they significantly increase the house’s value, so you sell at a high price.

You should note that when you are remodeling your house solely for sale, you should avoid the premium granite trim counters as chances are high you won’t recoup your investment. To make money from the remodel, go with medium-priced countertops.

Granite countertops are beautiful.

Since they are natural, granite countertops are naturally beautiful. The natural nature of the countertops also means that the pieces are unique. This means that no two slabs are the same.

Even if you have several almost identical slabs in your kitchen, they aren’t exactly similar. This gives you a sense of uniqueness, as you are sure that no one in the world has a countertop identical to yours.

The unique and beautiful nature of the countertops also means that you have a comfortable house to live in.

The countertops are durable.

Granite is naturally strong, meaning that it’s bound to last for a long time when you take good care of it. When well maintained, granite slabs can last up to 50 years, which is more than most other (even artificial) countertop options, such as quartz.

Of course, for the countertops to last this long, you must take good care of them. While tough, don’t sit on them, especially on the edges, as you will crack them. Instead, have a stool in your kitchen to sit on as you prepare the food.

You also should avoid cutting directly on the countertops, as you will scratch them, giving them an ugly look. Even if the countertops can stand the abuse, you should always have a chopping board in place to maintain a clean look. Use this board to chop tomatoes, onions, meat, and anything else you might be preparing.

How you clean the countertops also plays a massive role in their life, so always be cautious about how you go about it. As a rule, don’t use harsh chemicals to clean your surfaces. This calls for you to avoid vinegar-containing products at all costs.

The countertops are versatile.

Whether you want to give your kitchen a minimalistic or traditional look, there are granite counters you can use for this.

To pull off the look, you need to install the countertops properly. This calls for you to work with experienced contractors that know what they are doing. The last thing you should do is work with cheap contractors that ruin your project.

Before installing the countertops, sit down with your contractor and explain to them the look you are after. For peace of mind that they will properly install the countertops, ask them to show other kitchens they have done with the same design. Of course, avoid the contractors that don’t have samples.

They are perfect for the kitchen.

The kitchen is one of the busiest rooms in the house, and it’s often a highly demanding place that requires robust materials.

Thankfully, granite can withstand water, stains, oils, hot pans, and other risks.

As mentioned above, while granite is tough, you must protect it from these elements. Besides removing water and oils before they form stains, you should regularly seal your granite kitchen countertops Durham.

A good way to go about it is to seal the surfaces at the time of installation and then at least once a year after that.

Can You Cut On Granite?

It’s not uncommon to find homeowners chopping apples on the countertop surfaces when they are in a hurry. It’s also not unusual to find them slicing a lime when making a quick cocktail.

While many do this without causing any damage to the countertops, the solid question is, can you cut on granite countertops?

Yes, you can cut on the countertops, but you shouldn’t overdo it as you risk blunting your knife or scratching the surfaces. This means that you can get away with making a quick chop here and there but avoid cutting, chopping, and preparing your food every day directly on the countertops as you risk defacing the surfaces.

To be on the safe side, when you are doing extensive cutting and chopping, use a cutting board. Besides the board protecting the countertops against scratches and the knife from blunts, it also protects the sealer on the granite from acid erosion.

While the acid from the tomato or lemon won’t hurt your granite, it can break down the sealer, forcing you to seal the surfaces more often.

What else can’t you do on granite surfaces?

Besides not cutting directly on the countertops, there are plenty of other things you shouldn’t do to your countertops to keep them in top working condition. Some of these things include:

Sitting on the countertops

When you look at granite, they appear hard and tough, and they are. Unfortunately, they can’t take a lot of weight. This means that when you sit on them, there is the risk of them breaking. This is often because the countertops contain fissures and striations that can break.

To avoid breakage, avoid sitting on your countertops in the bathroom or kitchen. You also should avoid standing on them when replacing the bulb or reaching the top shelf.

Allowing water to stand on the counters

Water is life, but it can be dangerous, especially to countertops. Even if you have sealed the counters, don’t let water or any other liquids stay on the surfaces for a long time. This is because the liquids are bound to get into the inner countertop layers, making it hard to remove the stains.

To keep your surfaces clean and stain-free, make it a habit to clean the spills as soon as they happen.

Avoid placing liquids directly on the countertops to minimize the chances of spills happening. One of the best places to keep them is in the cabinets. You can also have a bottle tray and place the liquids there.

Placing hot pans on the countertops

The same way homeowners have the impression that their countertops are tough and they can sit on them is the same way they think they can put hot pots and pans on them and take the abuse.

While granite is heat resistant, it isn’t heatproof. This means that you can get away with placing hot pots and pans on the surfaces now and then, but when you regularly do it or make it a habit, you are bound to damage the surfaces.

To avoid this, avoid placing the hot pots and pans directly on the granite surfaces. The right way to go about it is to have hot pads and trivets in place where you place the hot pots to avoid damaging your surfaces.

If you don’t have a hot mat, never remove the pot from the oven while hot—let it cool and only place it on the countertop when it’s fully cold and can’t cause any damage to the countertop surfaces.

So, can you use granite as a chopping board?

As mentioned above, you shouldn’t cut directly on granite kitchen countertops Raleigh, so you can’t use granite as a chopping board. Unless you want to do minor chopping and cutting, always use a wooden cutting board.

The board will not only protect your countertops from scratches and other forms of damage, but also protect your knives from getting blunt and having to sharpen them regularly.

Which Granite Is Best For Kitchen Countertop?

If you have been searching for granite kitchen countertops, you must have realized that there are many granite countertops in the market you can go for.

Which granite is best for kitchen countertops? If you are asking this question, you should know that there are many granite types you can go for, with the common ones being:

Black granite counters

Have you always dreamt of a sleek and elegant kitchen? Black granite counters are the way to go. Besides the countertops giving your kitchen an exquisite look, they are dark; hence any stains won’t be too apparent.

For a great look, pair the countertops with wooden cabinets. Going for a modern, sleek look? Match the countertops with gray or white cabinets.

Since the countertops are dark, they will darken your kitchen and give it a smaller look. To counter this, install them in a large kitchen. You also should be having large windows in your kitchen that will bring in as much natural light as possible.

If your kitchen is small and doesn’t get as much natural light, but you still want to install black countertops, pair them with white or light wood cabinets to keep the room feeling open and bright.

White granite countertops

White is known to give any room a fresh, clean, and open look, so white countertops are the way to go if this is the look you have always wanted.

The countertops look their best when you pair them with stainless steel appliances and sleek white cabinets. For a classic vibe, pair them with vintage appliances.

When buying the countertops, you should note that they come in different shades that can give your kitchen different looks. For this reason, you should be ultra-cautious of the shade you go with.

Most homeowners want to install pure white granite, but it’s hard to find as most slabs come with colored flecks.

To avoid investing in an expensive slab you don’t like, take a few samples of the slab with you to your home and see how they look under different lighting environments.

Red granite countertops

Although, you won’t find them in most homes, red granite countertops have been around since time immemorial. A clear indication of how far back they date is their presence in Egyptian pyramids.

Like other granite counters, red granite countertops come in many shades and patterns ranging from bright pinkish-red to deep burgundy. It’s also not uncommon to find red granites with blue, white, or even silver highlights.

Although red seems like an interesting color, it’s not wise to install it on the entire of your countertops.  Instead, install it at the focal points of your kitchen.

To avoid overwhelming your kitchen, keep all the other finishes neutral. For example, go with wood cabinetry in warm tones, then use red accents such as in the backsplash tile to tie your space together.

Green granite countertops

Due to their close association with nature, green granite countertops bring a natural and calming feel to your kitchen. Like the other granite countertops in the market, you will rarely find pure green countertops—most of them come with brown and gray undertones. Most of them will also have interesting flecks, patterns, and swirls.

For the best look, pair green countertops with white cabinets and shiny hardware. The countertops will also look great if you pair them with wood cabinetry, especially if the wood color has cooler tones that complement the green shade.

To know what you are committing to, take a sample slab to your home before making a large purchase.

Blue granite countertops

Did you know there are blue granite countertops? Yes, they are there, and they are valued for their beauty, and as long as you install the right shade, they won’t disappoint.

Green granite countertops work excellently with white cabinets and shiny hardware. They also look exquisite when you pair them with wood cabinetry, especially when the wood color has some cooler tones that complement the countertop’s green color.

Have the countertops professionally installed

Choosing the right granite countertops for your kitchen isn’t enough—you have to ensure they are professionally installed by expert granite contractors Raleigh.

What To Put On Kitchen Counters To Decorate?

Whether you have installed granite kitchen countertops or any other countertop material, you will agree that the countertops don’t reflect your personality, and they can be boring to look at.

Luckily, you can place several items on the countertops to give them your personal touch, express your taste, and improve their look.

Wondering what to put on kitchen counters to decorate? Here are some of the best ones:

Fresh fruits

Since fruits don’t need refrigeration and you can leave them at room temperature, you can definitely use them to decorate your counters. All you need to do is place the fruits in a beautiful bowl and place them strategically on your countertops.

To get the most from the fruits, go for fruits with bright colors such as bright yellow, green, or orange. Some of the excellent fruits to use for decoration include: lemon, lime, orange, and apples.

Fruits dry out with time so remember to replace them with fresh ones every few days.

Cookbooks

Cookbooks are an excellent way to polish your cooking skills and improve the look of the countertops. To decorate your counters, stack a couple of hardboard cookbooks on your counters. You can also lay them flat, vertically, or horizontally, depending on the look you want to achieve and the style of your countertops.

To amp up your presentation, display books with a bit of color and keep them color-coordinated with the rest of the kitchen theme.

You can use any cookbooks, but it’s best you use books of your favorite cuisines. For example, if you love Asian Cuisine, use books with an oriental touch.

Plants

Plants are easy to carry, and they give life to your kitchen. You can use a single plant if you have a small kitchen or several plants if your kitchen is large.

The beauty is there are many types of plants you can choose from, and you can display them in different ways. For example, you can display them in a stylish pot or planter.

As you choose the plants, choose low-maintenance plants, as they will survive even if you aren’t in the house for days or don’t expose them to sunlight.

If you aren’t sure about the right plants to go for, get the input of a professional.

Cutting boards

Many homeowners use cutting boards as places to chop their vegetables and meat, but did you know that you can also use them as decoration surfaces?

To decorate your countertops using the boards, you should collect a few boards of different shapes and types and stack them together on your counter. If you don’t like the look, lean them against your kitchen’s backsplash to transform the look of your kitchen.

To make the boards even more exciting, mix boards are made from different materials such as marble and wood as they will create a significant visual contrast with the rest of the kitchen surface.

The boards also come in handy at improving the kitchen texture and adding a warm touch to the countertops.

You should be cautious about the type of boards you go for as some might make your kitchen look tacky, and you don’t want this, do you? So, if you aren’t sure about the boards you should go for, get the input of a professional.

Fresh flowers

A colorful bouquet of fresh flowers can transform boring basic countertops into beautiful surfaces you can’t get your eyes from. The beauty of fresh flowers is they are soft and give your surfaces a subtle touch.

To decorate your surfaces, put the flowers in a vase and place them in strategic areas of the kitchen counters.

To make your counters even more interesting, place several flower bouquets in different areas of the kitchen, then switch them up every week to give your counters a brand new look. If you have the budget, granite contractors NC recommend that you get different vases and switch them regularly.

You should note that flowers tend to wither with time, so to prevent your kitchen from looking dead, get fresh flowers at least once every two to three days.

4 Disadvantages of Granite Countertops

Granite counters are undoubtedly the most popular countertop materials, and every new homeowner dreams of installing them in their home. Unfortunately, it’s not all hunky dory as the countertops have their flaws. Is this your first time you are thinking about installing the countertops? Here are 4 disadvantages of granite countertops you should know about:

They are highly inconsistent.

The countertops are natural, so you can’t expect them to be the same but granite takes the inconsistency to a whole new level.

First, what is referred to as granite in the stone yard and what you purchase for your kitchen isn’t always granite. Many stones are referred to as commercial granite. Meaning a group of stones quarried for use on countertops and share similar characteristics such as high levels of mica, quartz, silica, and feldspar.

True granite is made through volcanic activity where the molten rock cools beneath the earth’s surface. In some cases, the stones labeled and sold as granite aren’t actually igneous rock. Some are dolomites, breccias, and conglomerate stones. All of which are metamorphic or sedimentary rocks.

The granite’s significant inconsistencies mean that there is no standard hardness value, grading, durability, or maintenance. The inconsistency also means that you sometimes have stones that are porous, weak, soft, and others that are so dense such that even thinking about sealing them is wrong.

When you are in the stores making the purchase, all commercial granite is sold and treated equally, so it’s hard to tell what you are buying. Due to this, it becomes an issue of luck. You can buy a soft, weak stone or a tough one that will last your entire lifetime.

To increase your chances of buying a high-quality stone, involve experts. As you are doing your shopping, hire a granite contractor to accompany you to the stores. The contractor will help you determine how strong the countertop is and when it comes to the granite installation, you won’t waste time finding another installer.

Granite counters have plenty of fissures and pits

Since it’s natural, granite tends to have plenty of natural fissures or pits on its surface. Some of the fissures are harmless, cosmetic cracks or small indentations in the stone, but others are lethal and could actually weaken the countertops’ structure and integrity.

If you are wondering what fissures and pits are, fissures are natural cracks that occur on the stone, and they often occur where two minerals meet. On the other hand, Pits are small holes or indentations in the stone, which often come about when a weaker particle breaks free.

In most cases, it’s hard to tell the nature of a fissure until it opens up or forms a wider crack. Even professionals can’t tell whether the fissure or pit will worsen with time.

Thankfully, most companies apply a resin that makes the countertops stronger and hides the fissures. This means that when you polish the countertop, you cause the light to bounce off the countertop, which comes in handy at hiding the fissures, pits, and other imperfections.

The countertops come with too many color variations

Although the color variations might be a plus for some people as it means more countertop options to choose from, it can be a negative if one section of the stone is significantly different from the rest. Or you have a countertop that has a significant shift in color or pattern from one end of the stone to the next.

Due to the color variations, you should be ultra-cautious when purchasing as the color might look great at the store but be awful when you bring it home.

Before you commit to buying large countertop slabs, first carry a small sample to your home and see how the slab looks in the house. Only proceed with the purchase if you like how the countertop looks.

The countertops don’t have the same durability.

Make no mistake about it. Some granite counters are incredibly durable and will even last several generations, but others, such as those shipped from China, are weak and won’t last long enough. In fact, these stones will sag over time if you don’t support them.

To extend the life of the kitchen countertops Durham, support them on the kitchen islands, overhangs, desk, and other areas.