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Common Countertop Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

soild surface countertops

Upgrading your countertops is an exciting way to improve the appearance and functionality of your kitchen or bathroom. However, making mistakes during the selection, installation, or maintenance process can cost you both time and money. Thankfully, knowing what to look for can help you make informed decisions and maximize your investment.

To help you out, here are some of the most common countertop blunders and how to avoid them:

Choosing the wrong countertop for your lifestyle

One of the most common mistakes people make is choosing a countertop material that does not fit their lifestyle or demands. While each material has its advantages and disadvantages, not all of them are appropriate for heavy use or specific settings.

Examples of poor material choices:

Installing marble countertops in a busy kitchen that is prone to spills and stains.
Using laminate in a damp bathroom, which cause warping over time.
Using wood surfaces in a kitchen with a lot of hot pots and pans.

To avoid this mistake, you need to evaluate your everyday habits and select a substance that can meet your requirements. For example:

Quartz is ideal for families who want a long-lasting, low-maintenance surface.

Granite: Ideal for individuals who like the distinctive beauty of natural stone and don’t mind the occasional sealing.

Laminate: A cost-effective solution for low-traffic areas.

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

Failing to seal your countertops

Many natural stone countertops, including granite and marble, require frequent sealing to retain their beauty and functionality. Failure to seal your countertops can cause stains, water damage, and bacteria growth over time.

Common problems with unsealed countertops include:

Granite absorbs spills, resulting in lasting stains.
Acidic chemicals, such as citrus or vinegar, can cause etching in marble.
Stone countertops with unsealed edges and seams serve as breeding grounds for microorganisms.

To avoid making these mistakes, follow a regular sealing plan that is appropriate for your countertop material. Granite is normally sealed once a year, although marble may require sealing more regularly.

When you are doing the sealing, use a high-quality stone sealant and apply it according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Using abrasive products

Using abrasive products on your kitchen countertops can cause serious and irreparable damage. Abrasive products such as steel wool, scouring pads, and rough sponges have the potential to scrape and wear down the surface of different countertop materials.

Despite their longevity, materials like granite and marble can suffer from micro-abrasions as a result of their use, dulling their brilliant sheen with time.

Additionally, abrasive damage can render countertop manufacturers’ warranties null and void, leaving you, the homeowner, with no option for repairs or replacements. Instead of abrasive equipment, use soft cloths or non-abrasive sponges designed for gentle, regular cleaning.

For more stubborn stains, baking soda paste or specialized non-abrasive cleaners can successfully remove filth without jeopardizing the countertop’s integrity.

Additional preventative steps, such as using cutting boards for food preparation and cooking, can help to reduce the need for frequent and vigorous cleaning.

By avoiding abrasive tools and using gentler cleaning methods, homeowners can preserve the beauty and lifespan of their kitchen countertops, ensuring that they remain beautiful and usable for many years to come.

Proper care and maintenance are essential for sustaining the value and look of kitchen countertops.

Failing to maintain the countertops

Neglecting routine care of kitchen countertops can result in a wide range of issues that jeopardize both the beauty and performance of the counters. Daily use of these areas accumulates dirt, grime, and food particles over time, making removal difficult if not treated immediately.

Countertops that are not cleaned on a regular basis might harbor bacteria, posing health dangers, particularly in food preparation areas.

You should note that failing to reseal natural stone worktops like granite or marble can leave them exposed to discoloration and etching from acidic liquids like vinegar, wine, or citrus juices.

The sealant serves as a crucial protective barrier, keeping liquids from permeating the porous surface of the substance. When this barrier is not properly maintained, the countertop absorbs spills, resulting in permanent discoloration and damage, particularly after lengthy usage.

The edges and seams of laminate countertops are especially vulnerable to water damage if not checked and maintained on a regular basis. Excess moisture in the area might cause the laminate material to peel or swell, requiring unnecessary and costly repairs.

Similarly, hardwood countertops require frequent oiling to keep them from drying out and breaking due to wear and tear. Failure to do so may result in cracks and warping, reducing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity.

Neglecting routine care not only reduces the aesthetic appeal of kitchen countertops but it can also result in serious health hazards, structural damage, and greater repair expenses over time.

Consistent cleaning and maintenance are vital to ensure the longevity and functionality of your kitchen surfaces while also serving as an aesthetic appeal to you as a homeowner.

Doing the installation by yourself

While DIY initiatives can save money initially, countertop installation necessitates precision and experience. Improper installation can result in uneven surfaces, obvious seams, or even damage to your new countertops.

There are a couple of risks that come with DIY installation. They include:

Improper measurements can result in countertops that do not fit properly.
Incorrect adhesive or support application, resulting in cracks or instability.
Damage to walls, cabinets, or plumbing during the installation process.

Hiring skilled granite countertop installers NC or any other experienced professionals will guarantee that your countertops are properly measured, produced, and installed. Professionals have the necessary tools and skills to complete difficult installations such as waterfall edges and integrated sinks.

To ensure that you are hiring the right people, you need to take your time. This calls for you to always do your due diligence before hiring. As a rule of thumb, schedule an interview with a number of experienced contractors, and from the interview, you should pick the right one for your project.

During the interviews look out for the years of experience, how they plan to execute your project and any other relevant details.

Installing New Kitchen Countertops? 7 Things to Pay Attention To

If you are looking to install new kitchen countertops, there are a number of things you should pay attention to in order to install the units properly. These things include:

Your preferred look

Having an idea of the ultimate kitchen’s design is beneficial as it helps you select the best kitchen counters for your home. Consider the look you want to achieve before making your selection for new kitchen countertops.

You should remember that particular countertops may give your kitchen a more classic appearance, while others may provide your house with a more modern feel.

Should you have a preference for a modern kitchen, you can wind up selecting unusual countertop materials. The type of countertop material you select for your kitchen will depend on the overall look you want to achieve.

There is no right or wrong material to go for. It all depends on you.

Your lifestyle

Certain lifestyles are more suited for particular types of kitchen countertops than others. For example, a white granite countertop might not be the greatest choice for your kitchen if you have a busy household with lots of spills and accidents.

To tell whether a particular material is suitable for you, consider how your kitchen will be used, as certain materials for countertops are more porous or more likely to chip and crack.

This will help in determining the required level of durability for the countertop surface. Speak with an expert if you’re unsure which material would suit your lifestyle the best. Experts in countertops will know which material is ideal for your kitchen.

You should note that your lifestyle will determine how long the countertops last. This means that as much as you might love particular countertops, if your lifestyle doesn’t fit them, it will be pointless to install them as, after a few uses, they will break.

To be on the safe side, follow the instructions given by the countertop professional. Don’t go against their advice, as chances are that you will end up wasting your money.

Layout of your home

The kitchen should unite the entire house because it is the center. Having stated that you ought to think about the design and arrangement of your property and make an effort to unify the style throughout.

You should confirm that your open-concept home’s elements all function as a unit to provide a seamless flow throughout the area.

The style you decide on for your kitchen should be reflected throughout your house. The reason for this is that your home will look much better if the finishes and color schemes are similar.

Even if your house is not an open concept, having a connection between your kitchen and the rest of the house is still beneficial. When selecting the color scheme for your kitchen counters, try to stick to a basic palette.

Your budget

You must first establish a budget if you don’t already have one. You should note that you should do this before choosing your kitchen countertops.

If this is your first time installing the countertops, you should note that they can be costly, so be sure to have enough cash on hand. When determining the budget for your kitchen countertop, try to be reasonable.

Determine which materials would be most appropriate for your budget and consult a professional to select the ideal countertops for your house.

Try to choose premium materials for your kitchen countertop that will last a lifetime while staying within your budget.

You should note that your budget should not only include the cost of buying the countertops but also that of installing them. The last thing you want is to buy new countertops only to find that you don’t have money to install them.

Edging

Even while the edging you decide on for your finished countertop may appear insignificant, it has a significant impact on the look of the counters. The edge not only gives your projects the ideal final touch but also expresses your personal preferences.

You should work with your installation contractor and agree on the best edging style that will match the design of your home and reflect your style.

You should note that the contractor who installs the countertops might not be the ideal one to install the edging, so it’s always wise to find an edging professional who will expertly install it for you.

Backsplash

While the backsplash area in a kitchen is often overlooked, it may be a valuable space to upgrade your kitchen cabinets because it runs along the countertop.

You should choose a backsplash that complements the style of the house and your countertops. For example, selecting a backsplash made of glazed ceramic tiles will enhance the kitchen’s aesthetic appeal.

Chances are that there will be fat and other materials landing on the backslash, so ensure that it’s easy to clean. This calls for you to avoid any material that might be problematic to clean.

The backsplash is another place where you can get creative with color and style to make your kitchen pop if you’ve selected a more natural, subdued tone for your countertop. It would also be a relatively simple design feature to change up sometimes.

There is no right or wrong backsplash to go with. It all depends on your preferences and your desired look.

Maintenance

Many people will install countertops, but the last thing on their minds is how they will maintain them. This is wrong.

You should know that for you to keep the countertops in good shape, you need to maintain them. The countertops you choose should be based on your lifestyle. If you love cooking, you need countertops that will be easy to maintain, as getting high-maintenance surfaces will be an inconvenience.

If you aren’t sure about the counters to get, get the input of the professionals.

Remember to maintain the countertops of your choice correctly. This calls for you to seal your granite countertops Raleigh if you need to. You also should protect your surfaces from scratches by avoiding cutting directly on them.

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.

How To Deal With Common Countertop Problems

Both bathroom and kitchen countertops develop a myriad of issues that you have to deal with to keep the countertops in top shape. Which are these issues?

Cracked countertop surfaces

The countertop will crack due to various reasons such as imperfectly shaped joints, installing the countertops on uneven surfaces, and placing excessive weight on the surfaces.

How you fix the countertops depends on the nature of the cracks. If you have small cracks, repair them using epoxy resin. For deeper cracks or damage brought about by placing excessive weight on the countertops, replace the damaged part using a drill before applying a special filler.

When choosing filler, choose one that flawlessly mixes with your countertops. If this is the first time you are doing it, you will most likely get it wrong, so it’s best to have the work done by a professional.

Scratches and chips on the countertop surface

When you routinely place blades, containers, and other utensils on the countertops, you are bound to cause scratches and chips.

If you have covered countertops, you can easily fill the cuts or scratches using a repair pen or paste. Remember to fill exactly in the respective marks and avoid overfilling or underfilling as you will have a problem removing the filler later on.

For the best outcome in removing the chips or scratches from the countertops, you have to follow the right procedure.

Begin with applying concealing tape over the encompassing shelf space to leave the damaged area uncovered. Using an extremely sharp edge, rub off the excess filler to achieve a smooth wrap-up.

You should then place a piece of clear tape over the recently filled chipped surface to power the gun further into the chip to have a more solid seal.

Finally, mix an epoxy pitch with the fading shading colors to match your granite color.

Dull countertops and chemical stains

Your countertops will get dull due to you using the wrong cleaning products. Thankfully you can brighten them using one part isopropyl alcohol and three parts water, and a few drops of dishwashing liquid.

If there are steaks on your countertops, remove them by spraying a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water.

Are there coffee, grape juice, or wine stains on your surfaces? Remove them with a solution of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water.

Once you are done, you should wipe and buff the surfaces with newspaper until they are dry.

To prevent your countertops from getting dull again, don’t use abrasive cleaners or abrasive pads, as these cleaners will remove the finish, leaving your countertops dull and unattractive.

Never use acidic cleaners such as vinegar or lemon juice on your surfaces.

Also, stay away from ammonia-based cleaners. To prevent stains, wipe the spills immediately.

If you are using a commercial countertop polish or cleaner, ensure that it’s specially designed for the countertops in question, so they aren’t damaged.

As a rule of thumb, never set hot pots and pans on your countertops as you will damage them. Use trivets at all times.

Stains on the countertops due to hot pots and pans

Even the porous countertops are designed to withstand high temperatures, unfortunately, when you keep exposing your surfaces to the high temperatures, they are bound to get damaged.

Due to the high temperatures, giving your surfaces an ugly look.

To remove the stains, you need to apply some lemon juice on the stain, then leave it to dry for 5-10 minutes. You should then apply a layer of toothpaste to the surface using a rubber spatula then use a soft-bristled brush or toothbrush to scrub the stain.

Once the stain goes away, wipe the surfaces and clean them with a crisply wet towel.

Parting shot

Whether you have marble, wooden, or granite countertops Raleigh, your countertops will develop problems that you need to fix to restore sanity. You can fix some of the problems by yourself but if some of the issues are complex such as large cracks on the surfaces, let an experienced professional help you out.

As a rule of thumb, never try to fix a problem you don’t understand as you will cause more problems than were originally there.

How Do I Choose A Kitchen Countertop? Here Are 5 Things To Consider

Are you thinking about revamping your kitchen and wondering how do I choose a kitchen countertop? There are plenty of factors you should look out for. These factors include:

Your lifestyle

How you lead your life will influence the type of countertop you should go for. If you are in the house most of the time and love cooking, you need tough countertops such as granite countertops that will take up the abuse and give your kitchen an exciting look.

On the other hand, if you are a busy person and are rarely in the house, so you don’t have time to clean and maintain your countertops, you should go for easy-to-maintain units such as quartz and others.

Young children

Do you have children? This will also significantly influence the countertops you install. If you have young children, it means they will be jumping and sitting on the countertops. They also most likely will be drawing and even hitting the counters.

To keep your counters in top shape, you need tough and easy-to-maintain surfaces. This calls for you to avoid granite, marble, and other porous countertops as they easily stain.

In such an instance, you should go for tough, easy-to-maintain countertops that won’t stain easily.

Your budget

The other factor to consider when buying kitchen countertops is your budget. How much are you looking to spend on your counters?

If you have a large budget, there is no wrong countertop to go for, but if your budget restricts you, you should go for cheaper counters.

As you are shopping, you should note that different stores sell their counters at different prices. This means that you will need to take your time and enter different stores, and compare the prices they charge for their counters.

If you can’t afford premium counters such as marble and granite, there are cheaper options such as quartz and others.

If you are looking for counters for small areas such as Kitchen Island and don’t have a lot of money, consider countertop remnants that go at extremely low prices. Some countertop companies even give them out free.

Your desired look

We all have a look we want to give our kitchen, and to achieve this, one of the things to do is install the right kitchen countertops.

You have to install countertops of the right color, texture, and any other feature that aligns with the look you want.

If you aren’t sure about the countertops that will give you a look you want, get the input of a professional.

As you are choosing a countertop color, choose one that is versatile. This way, you can easily change the kitchen paint and accessories without changing the countertops.

To keep your options open in the future, install countertop materials with veins and splashes of color.

Before you buy large countertop pieces, take samples with you at home, place them in your kitchen, and see how they blend with the rest of the room. Get a second or even a third opinion if you aren’t sure about the look.

Of course, you should only buy the countertops that match your desired look.

The amount of care you are willing to give the countertops

Although, this goes hand in hand with your lifestyle, it’s common to have a lot of time, but you don’t like cleaning or taking any care of your countertops.

If you love showing love to your countertops, install porous countertops such as marble, granite, and limestone. If taking care of countertops isn’t your thing, go with easier-to-maintain materials such as quartz that only need you to wipe them down.

Professionally install the countertops.

Regardless of the type of countertops you install, ensure that you professionally install them. If you are a dab hand at DIY projects, you can install the countertops by yourself, but let experienced granite companies Raleigh help you out if you have never done it before.

For the best outcome, take time to hire a countertop installation company and ensure that you are hiring a reputable company that knows what they are doing. The last thing you want is to hire a contractor that damages the precious countertops you have spent your fortune on. You don’t want this, do you?

How Do I Choose A Kitchen Countertop?

Are you looking to buy countertops for your kitchen and wondering, how do I choose a kitchen countertop? Well, there are plenty of tips to consider. These tips include:

Your budget

This is probably the most important thing to consider, as many countertops go at different prices. If you don’t have money, go for laminate countertops but if budget isn’t an issue, try your hand at granite and marble countertops.

As you make your budget, you should note that different stores sell countertops at different prices. For example, the large stores often have limited options and sell their countertops at extremely high prices. On the other hand, the smaller stores sell their countertops at favorable prices and have a wide selection of countertops to choose from.

Before you settle on your budget, first visit these stores, see what is available and compare the prices.

Your cabinets

While cabinets are important, only consider them if you plan to keep them. If you will keep them, as you are choosing the countertops, you should consider the cabinets’ materials, colors, style, and design. If you aren’t sure about the right countertops to go for, get the input of a professional that will help you match all these factors.

Use of the countertops

How will you be using the countertops? This is an important factor to consider. If you love cooking and spend long hours in the kitchen, you should go for tough, durable countertops. If you entertain a lot, chances are there will be people sneaking into the kitchen and seeing what is going on there. Install beautiful, high-end countertops such as granite and marble to impress the guests.

If you have young kids, it would be unwise to buy high-end, white countertops as it’s a matter of time before they stain out from finger paints, jelly, Kool-Aid, and other materials.

Kitchen layout

The countertop materials you choose should match the kitchen layout in color palette and finish. The purpose of this is to build a connection between the kitchen, living room, and other spaces and, as a result, create a sophisticated look.

In most cases, you have to consult an experienced professional to help you choose the right countertop.

Aesthetic look

Your kitchen and even the entire house at large should function as one. This means that the countertops, kitchen cabinets, and other kitchen features should tie together and give you a unique look and feel.

Before you head to the stores, you need to think about the look you want to give your kitchen. Do you want an expensive look? Contemporary or modern? Farmhouse or non-traditional? You need to think about this.

There is no right or wrong look—it all depends on your preferences.

Care and maintenance required.

To keep the countertops in top shape, you have to take good care of them. The beauty is different materials require different levels of care and maintenance. While you will need to clean almost all countertops, some require extra care.

For example, granite and marble countertops are porous, so you will need to regularly seal them to prevent water and other liquids from seeping through and staining them.

Others such as butcher-block countertops need regular sanding to remove scratches and knife marks. They also need oiling to prevent water damage.

Think about your time and the work required to maintain the countertops. If you have the time and don’t mind putting in the work, you can go for plenty of countertops, but if you are lazy or lead a hectic life and don’t have time to give attention to the countertops, go for laminate countertops.

Parting shot

Choosing the right kitchen countertops Raleigh takes time and dedication. Due to the many countertop materials available in the market, it’s easy to be confused about the right one to go for. To have an easy time, work with a professional to guide you.

After getting your desired countertop, have it installed by a professional who knows what they are doing. The last thing you want is wasting so much time and money finding the countertops of your dreams, then they are haphazardly installed.

What Happens If You Don’t Clean Granite Countertops?

Have you ever wondered what happens if you don’t clean granite countertops? Well, plenty of things happen.

One of the things is that when you go for a long time without cleaning your countertops, oil spills, cut fruit, soap, cooking ingredients, and other materials leave stains on the surface.

The stains are often not apparent initially, and when you notice them, it’s often too late to remove them. So you are forced to live with the stain or incur huge bills replacing the countertops.

The other thing that will happen when you don’t clean your countertops is the surfaces become dull. One of the primary reasons homeowners install granite is its shiny, elegant look. When you don’t clean your counters for a long time, they lose their shine and turn to a dull, boring color that isn’t appealing to look at.

The final thing that happens is that you tend to have plenty of bacteria growing on your surfaces. In most cases, the bacteria are harmful to the health, and they pose a significant danger to those suffering from allergies.

How do you clean granite countertops?

To avoid the repercussions of not cleaning the countertops, you should regularly clean the surfaces. And you shouldn’t simply clean them—you should clean them properly.

How do you clean the countertops properly? Here is how to go about it:

Step 1: Squirt dish soap into a soft sponge

You don’t have to be sophisticated for regular cleaning—simple old mild dish soap and water are enough. Wet a sponge with water and squirt some dish soap into its center. Since granite scratches easy, you should use a soft sponge that won’t cause any damage to the surfaces.

After applying soap to the sponge, massage it until you see suds. You should then wring it out to not compromise the absorbent stone. Remember that granite discolors when you expose it to a lot of standing water.

Step 2: Wipe the counters.

After applying the right amount of water and soap on a sponge, the next thing you should do is gently wipe across the entire countertop in small, circular motions.

If you have got dried food on the countertops, apply some elbow grease to remove it. Wipe the entire countertop surface and ensure that it’s spotless.

Step 3: Dry the granite countertop

Once you are done, thoroughly dry the countertop. Doing this not only protects the granite from water damage, but also eliminates streaks and leaves the surface with an eye-catching, irresistible shine.

Things you should know when cleaning granite.

To get the most for your efforts, use the right cleaning products. As a rule of thumb, you shouldn’t use harsh or abrasive cleaners and sponges. This calls for you to avoid acidic cleaners such as lemon, lime, vinegar, or any product with bleach or ammonia.

This is because these products are too harsh to the countertops and often dull the surfaces, so you don’t get the shine you are looking for at the end.

Use a gentle cloth

As we mentioned above, granite scratches easily, so when you use a tough cloth or sponge, you are bound to scratch the surfaces.

To avoid this, use a nubby washcloth or microfiber. If a piece of cloth or sponge feels rough on your hands, it probably is too tough for your countertops, so you should stay away from it.

Keep the countertops sealed.

You might be wondering how sealing the countertops will give you the best cleaning results, but you should know that when you don’t clean your counters, they easily soak up oils, spills, and stains. As you can tell, this makes your cleaning work easy, and when you are done with cleaning, you often don’t get the shiny countertops you were looking forward to.

To have an easy time, seal your granite kitchen countertops Raleigh. The best way to go about it is to seal the surfaces at installation then once a year thereafter. Use high-quality sealing products and let an experienced professional handle the project for the best outcome.

How Should I Organize My Kitchen Countertops?

Are you looking to keep your counters clean and organized and wondering, how should I organize my kitchen countertops? There are plenty of ways to go about it, as given by experts. These ways include:

Create zones

One of the best ways to keep your counters organized is to create zones. Create zones for cooking, serving, prepping, and so on. You should then sort your things into these categories and store them in the areas where they make the most sense.

For example, place the cooking tools, oils, and foods that need cooking near the stove or oven. Place them near the largest surface space for the prep tools and place the serving pieces near the sink or dishwasher.

Experts also recommend creating stations for the specific things you do regularly, such as tea, coffee, or smoothies. Here, store all the things you need for the task, such as spoons, glasses, and other ingredients.

Use kitchenware meant to save space.

To have an easier time, use kitchen appliances meant to save space. For example, go for pans that nest together and ensure that the pots, pans, and bowls you buy have universal lids.

It also doesn’t hurt getting cookware with a magnetic storage rack and canvas lid holder.

To keep the knives in one place and organized, go for appliances with a standard knife block and utensil holder.

Use shelf risers and hanging baskets.

Shelf risers keep your counters clear and your items in one place, making your kitchen surfaces neat and organized. For the perfect look, get risers that complement the look and theme of the kitchen.

Get a triple-duty sink.

If you are out in the market looking for a sink, get one that does more than one task. For example, get a sink with mini ledges that you can easily pop in a drying rack, cutting boards, and wash pan. This not only saves you money as you won’t have to buy the extra items, but it also saves you space as you don’t have to find new places to store the items.

Move items to carts

If you are one of the lucky people and have a large kitchen or you have a small empty corner, you can make use of the space with old filing cabinets, bar carts, and work tables that you can use to host small cookbooks, extra mugs, small appliances and so on.

Minimize the decorations

As much as you want your kitchen to look great, you should minimize the number of decorations you have there. A good rule of thumb is to decorate the kitchen with items that are both decorative and functional.

For example, hang a beautiful cutting board on the wall that you can use to improve the appeal of the kitchen and use it when you want to cut something.

To avoid having your kitchen look cluttered, don’t decorate your kitchen with things that aren’t functional.

Wipe your dirty counters every night

A few crumbs of bread on your counters might seem harmless, but they can make your counters look cluttered and dirty.

To avoid this, take a few minutes every night to wipe your kitchen counters of any dirt and clutter that might be there.

Have a “junk drawer.”

It sounds counterintuitive and hypocritical that you should have a “junk” drawer while trying to declutter your kitchen, but it comes in handy when keeping your surfaces clean and organized.

You should note that you aren’t storing junk in the drawer, but rather the miscellaneous but functional items that might make your countertop look cluttered.

All you need to do is to have one dedicated drawer in your cabinets where you store the items that you aren’t using, but you might need later.

Install plain countertops

This might sound weird, but it’s true. Plain countertops look much better than patterned countertops. When you are in the market choosing kitchen countertops, choose those that are plain as they will make your kitchen look clean and easy to maintain.

If you aren’t sure about the right ones to go for, get the input of granite contractors Durham or other professionals.

Can You Have Two Different Countertops In Kitchen?

kitchen countertop replacement

If you are wondering, can you have two different countertops in kitchen? Yes, it’s possible. Besides doing this, giving your countertops a unique look, also can save you money. To get the most from the two countertops, you need to consider several tips that include:

Practicality

As much as you want to have kitchen countertops of different materials, you should ask yourself whether the countertops are practical. If you are installing them in your kitchen, can they withstand the stains, spills, and moisture?

In most kitchens, the spills happen next to the sink and cooktop. In these areas, you want to place easy to clean and maintain countertops. One of the best materials to go for is quartz.

Balance

The two countertops you choose should give your surfaces some balance. To do this, you should install the shiny, attractive countertops on the focal point of the house, such as the kitchen island, and the less shiny countertops on the hardworking areas of the kitchen.

For example, you can install marble and other luxurious countertops on the kitchen island while you fit quartz, granite, or butcher block on the cooking surfaces. When choosing the best material for the countertops, go for one that complements your lifestyle.

The last thing you want is to install countertops with two styles that clash. You should remember that when you install countertops with significant movement or pattern, pairing them can overwhelm your kitchen design and distract the eye.

If one material has busy designs, find a complementary countertop that is solid colored or minimal pattern. By so doing, you ensure that, one countertop material doesn’t compete with the other.

One great combination is pairing marble, granite, or other natural stone with toned-down quartz or solid surface countertops.

Color

To avoid giving your countertops a two for one, salvage yard look, ensure that the two materials connect visually.

For example, pair the warmer marble such as Marfil marble with quartz or granite with brown or taupe undertones. If you are going to install a marble island with cool, gray veining, black or dark gray granite are the ideal perimeter countertops to go for.

For the perfect balance, ensure that you have contrast lightness. For example, if your kitchen island is neutral in nature and light in color, choose a darker accent surface for the remaining countertops.

Flair

There is no point in using two different countertop materials if you aren’t going to showcase your style. If you want to give your surfaces a luxurious, sophisticated look and feel, go with marble such as Carrara white or Calacatta gold, then pair it with granite or quartz.

Edge

With a mixed and matched look, contrast and variation are key. To extend the look and beauty of marble and add a modern sentiment, install a waterfall edge. Install the right edge that will beautifully frame the countertops if you want to create a beveled, eased, or bullnose look.

If you aren’t sure about how to go about it, get the input of a professional to guide you through.

What are the common countertops you can go for?

If you are wondering which are the best countertops you can go for, there are plenty of them, with the common ones being:

Laminate

Laminate countertops are made from sheets of plastic laminate bonded to a particleboard core. The beauty is they come in a variety of colors and styles to choose from. They are often affordable, and due to this, they are attractive to budget-conscious homeowners.

While they are great, their major downside is they are susceptible to splitting, bubbling, warping, scratches, and other forms of damage. Due to this, you are advised against installing them in highly active areas of the kitchen.

Marble

We have been mentioning marble as it is a highly popular material known for its luxurious look. Although marble countertops Durham are elegant to install, they are expensive, so not the best for those working on a tight budget.

Other popular countertop materials include: quartzite, travertine, granite, and soapstone. There is no right or wrong material to go for—it depends on your intended look and budget. If you aren’t sure about the right material to go for, get the input of a professional.

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.