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What To And What Not To Put On Your Kitchen Countertops

kitchen countertops

Did you know not everything is ideal to be placed on your kitchen countertops? In this article, we are going to look at the things you can place on the countertops and those you can’t. Read on to know more:

What to place on the counters

Some of the things you can place on the counters:

Coffee maker: If you make coffee every day, there is no better place to place your coffee maker than on your kitchen counter. To give your counters a great look, set up a coffee zone. This calls for you to gather everything you use to make coffee with and store it above and below the counter where your coffee maker sits.

Some of the things you should include with the coffee maker include mugs, coffee filters, coffee, and to-go cups.

Mixer: Only a few drawers and cabinets can store large appliances such as a mixer, and the large size and weight of the appliance will damage the cabinets. One of the best places to put the mixer is on the counter.

Tools: You should keep the crock right next to the stove together with spoons, tongs, ladles, spatulas, and other kitchen equipment. Having these items at your disposal makes it easy to reach them when the need arises.

Canisters: Large or small canisters are pieces you store on the counters for decoration or to contain small items. You use them to contain grab and go snacks, napkins, and other small odds and ends that will keep the counters from getting cluttered.

Dish rack: A dish rack is a must-have whether you have a dishwasher or not.

Salt and pepper shaker: Since you are going to be using these all the time, it makes sense to have them on the counters all the time.

Fruit basket: You are rarely going to refrigerate most of the fruits and vegetables—you are most likely going to eat them. To have an easy time reaching out to them, isn’t it wise to have a fruit basket on the counters?

Cutting board: Who doesn’t love large cutting boards on their counters? Unfortunately, most of us don’t have enough space for them, but if you love chopping, you should highly consider having them on your counters. This way you don’t cut directly on the counters and end up damaging them.

What not to place on the counters

Just as there are some items you can comfortably place on the counters, there are some you can’t. They include:

Papers: Papers on the counters gives them a cheap look, and you don’t want this, do you? If you aren’t using them, you should store them in a message center contraption. Preferably on the wall above the counter.

Appliances you rarely use: Are there appliances you rarely use? If you got them and you don’t use them every day, they are better off placed away from the counters as they will not only be giving your counters a cheap, dirty look, but they also will be putting a lot of unnecessary stress on the counters.

Collections: It’s normal to be attached to valuables. Whether its teacups, photographs, or figurines, it’s tempting to display them on the counters, but don’t do this. Instead of having them there, mount them on the wall.

Serving pieces: Only have these on your counters if you entertain daily. If you don’t, they will be taking a lot of space on the surfaces, and you are better off with them in the cabinet. You can also mount them on the wall as décor.

Other ways of taking care of your kitchen countertops

Other than being cautious of the items you place on the counters, there are plenty of other things you can do to prevent your countertops from getting damaged. Some of these things include:

Clean the countertops regularly: You must keep your countertops clean all the time. How do you do this? By cleaning them regularly. This way, you get rid of harmful materials on the surfaces. While cleaning the surfaces is vital, avoid using harsh materials as they will etch the surfaces and cause serious damage.

Cutting directly on the counters: One of the things you should have on the counters is a cutting board, and you should always use it when cutting meat and other materials. Whether you have marble or granite countertops Durham, always use a cutting board to protect them from damage.

6 Inexpensive Kitchen Countertops

Everyone wants to install high-end kitchen countertops in their home, but sometimes due to financial constraints, they are unable so they have to think about the next best option. Luckily, there are several inexpensive countertop options you can go with. The most common ones being:

Ceramic tiles

Ceramic tiles are cheap, easy to find, easy to cut, easy to install, and come in different varieties. While they are great, they come with their fair share of flaws: they are difficult to maintain as you have to keep on sealing them, they are hard to clean unless you add a layer of epoxy, and some homeowners feel they are unhygienic.

While this is the case, they are a great alternative if you aren’t in a good financial position.

Laminate

There are two types of laminate countertops: cheap and expensive. The expensive type looks good for a long time, looks better, and handles more heat and height. While some people might frown upon the cheap variety, it isn’t that bad as long as you are cautious about how you use it.

You will find fairly cheap and still in good condition laminate countertops from your local store. The countertops might not be the prettiest or the sturdiest, but they will get the work done.

The most popular option you can go with is Formica. If you don’t like the brand, there are plenty of others such as: Pionite, Bevella, CustomCraft, Wilsonart, Corinthian, Hampton Bay, and many others.

Tiles

Many people know tiles when they are installed to the floor, but they aren’t limited to only here. You can also install tile countertops on the ceiling, swimming pool, balcony, vanities, walls, and of course, on the countertops.

The beauty with tiles is that they are waterproof, elegant to look at, and low maintenance. They are also easy and quick to install, so you can even install them by yourself even with basic skills. While this is the case, it’s always wise to hire a professional as the contractor does the work better.

Granite remnants

If your kitchen isn’t too big, you can give the countertops an elegant appeal using granite remnants. For those that don’t know, granite remnants are bits and pieces that are left over after completing the previous projects.

Visit the local stone store and buy any remnants that might be there. If you know a friend or family member that recently had a granite project, approach them and ask them for the remnants that the contractors left behind.

You can combine the remnants to make a beautiful countertop. While the countertops will have a strange look, they won’t be too bad, especially if an expert does the work. The contractor will fix the pieces together, glue, and seal them, ensuring there is no risk of the liquids seeping into the cracks.

One of the best places to install the remnants is in the kitchen islands. When you install them, you should note that you have to reseal them more often than the traditional countertops, so you should be ready for it. For example, if you reseal the regular countertops once a year, reseal the remnants twice a year.

Wood

Wood is elegant looking, works excellently, lasts for a long time, and its fairly inexpensive. There are plenty of wood varieties you can install in your home. For example, you can install walnut, cherry, mahogany, pinewood, or any other variety that you love.

If you are on a budget, consider balancing a plain wooden countertop with other cool elements. Since you are strapped for cash, you should find the wood variety that is the cheapest in your area and find out whether it will look good for your countertops.

When you find the right wood, install and seal it.

Paint

If you are looking to revamp old wooden countertops, paint makes such an excellent option. You can do the painting by yourself or hire contractors such as granite contractors Raleigh to help you out.

As you are painting the countertops, you should note that they don’t look stylish or expensive, but they sure do look neat. When choosing the paint, go for a high-quality one that blends with your kitchen design.

Real benefits of granite for your kitchen and bathroom

If you are thinking about remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, countertop is one of the important aspects to consider. A countertop can either make or break the decor of your kitchen and bathroom. It is important to select the right countertop material, as plenty of countertop materials are present on the market. Among the crowd of countertops, granite countertops are the most trending countertop material. This surface has its own charm. However, granite countertops are more expensive than other countertops, but they worth every penny you spend on them.

Advantages of granite countertops

Granite is the suitable countertop material for both kitchens and bathrooms. This natural stone is capable of withstanding against heat and load, as well as water and chemicals. Take sneak peek over below mentioned benefits of granite kitchen and bathroom countertops:

Granite Countertops Possess Timeless Beauty

Home decor trends come and go, but timeless beauty of granite countertops remain in trend. This material is always finds its spot at top in home improvement and remodeling magazines. The color and texture of granite countertops never fades.

Granite Countertops Offer Unique Results

Since granite slabs are made from natural stone, every slab has its own unique pattern. No two granite slabs are identical to each other. Thus, you need not have to worry about your countertop from being copied.

Granite Countertops Are Extremely Sanitary

Hygiene is important for both kitchen and bathroom. One of the biggest advantages of selecting granite surface is that it is a non-porous. Thus, it does not require a lot of maintenance and germs can’t hide anywhere. You can clean it with soap water and cloth. However, you need to pay attention over granite countertop sealing.

Granite Countertops Add Value to Your Home

Granite countertops are ultimate addition to home. The granite bathroom countertop apex increases the value of bathroom, whereas granite kitchen countertop increases the value of kitchen. You will get full value of your money with granite countertop.

Granite countertops are can be a value to home. You should choose the right contractor for countertop installation. The countertop installation should be done in an adequate manner.

Give Your Apartment Kitchen A Makeover It Deserves

No apartment is perfect. It can be too cramped which decorating it can be challenging. Speaking of decorating, most apartment owners do not allow major renovations inside each unit even if the cost will be shouldered by the tenant. That leaves the tenant no choice but to deal with outdated flooring and kitchen countertops.

However, this does not mean you have to get stuck with your plain and boring kitchen. Even without a major remodeling, you can still make your kitchen look trendy and fresh any time of the day. All you need is to remove and add some items that will help create a whole new look to your kitchen. Regardless whether you have marble countertops or quartz countertops, the key here is resourcefulness to make your kitchen look customized with a personal touch.

Getting started

As mentioned, some apartment landlords do not allow major renovations inside a unit. That leaves you with the option to focus on other things such as adding or updating kitchen décor instead. As experts say, having a small kitchen does not mean it’s less good than bigger ones. In fact, smaller kitchens are more efficient to use than larger ones.

That said, your kitchen does not need to have the most expensive granite countertops nor the latest kitchen appliances. All you need is a good kitchen decorating plan that can work even for ample-spaced kitchen such as yours. Also, it is important to address the most common kitchen issues: wrong lighting, too much clutter, and lack of counter space.

Three major kitchen issues

A kitchen renovation does not always necessarily mean spending on thousands of dollars for expensive tools and equipment. More often than not, practicality and resourcefulness can be major keys.

Dealing with clutter

One of the major reasons for clutter is due to a lack of storage space. However, it is not solely to blame. Instead, you can declutter your kitchen of unnecessary items. Go through your kitchen cupboards and cabinets and do something about those pans and utensils that have not been used for years. Once decluttered of unnecessary items, you can start putting the more important and useful items inside your cabinets.

Maximizing countertop space

Some homeowners tend to put additional stuff on their quartz kitchen countertops because there is no additional storage space left. That leaves you with a small workspace to do your thing in the kitchen. One way to add countertop space is by decluttering as mentioned above.

Dim lighting

Dim lights can make the kitchen look smaller and uninviting. You can either change your lighting or repaint your walls into a lighter color. You can also add under-cabinet lighting to make the kitchen work area lighter and at the same time accentuate your cabinets.

Decorating your apartment kitchen with these simple tips

Here are some kitchen decorating ideas you may consider trying, without having to resort to a major overhaul or calling a countertop replacement company.

Repurpose unused items.

For example, you can repurpose an old drawer or table and turn it into an improvised kitchen island that is perfect for a small kitchen. You can simply store it away when not in use and add up to additional floor space.

Change your cabinet handles.

Perhaps you can consider changing your kitchen cabinet handles to add a personalized touch to your kitchen. It can make your cabinet look fresher without the major overhaul.

Add artsy stuff to your kitchen area.

You may be concerned that you will add clutter to your kitchen, but not so when you add some artsy stuff. You can hang a colorful painting on your kitchen walls or add other artsy items on your kitchen countertop – say, a trendy basket or a colorful rug.

Use a tray to organize your kitchen items.

If you have unused trays in your kitchen, why not use it as additional storage space? You can use it to put your condiments, plates, and other kitchen utensils – it’s your call.

Add greens.

Adding potted plants into your home, including the kitchen, can give a breath of fresh air into your living space. Choose plants that are easy to maintain and care.

Add a rug on your kitchen floor.

Instead of worrying about your outdated kitchen flooring, you can just cover it up with a beautiful rug instead. It can add cushion to your feet as well, making your task at the kitchen more comfortable.

Give your kitchen a fresher look now

For your countertop needs, you can check out companies specializing in countertop replacement in Durham.

How to Clean Your Countertop Without Damaging The Material

Kitchen countertops are one of the most frequently-used home items. More often than not, you would be using it even if you do not cook every day. It is usually where you put down your groceries, take-home meals, and other random items. Your kitchen countertop has also most likely experienced a lot of spills and scratches.

That said, your granite kitchen countertops may have already taken a beating over the years. Sure, you take pride in ensuring that your countertop is cleaned before you go to bed. But the question is this: how sure are you that your countertop is really clean from deep-seated dirt that has accumulated through the years?

There are different materials used for countertops – from quartz kitchen countertops, marble, granite, laminate, and so on. Each of these countertop materials has its respective benefits. Likewise, each of them has specific cleaning and maintenance requirements that need to be followed. Otherwise, it can damage the countertop material for good.

How to clean marble countertops

Marble material looks classic and elegant, whether as countertop or flooring material. It has different designs and colors you can choose from. However, marble countertops are prone to scratches and tend to stain easily. If you are a little OC than usual, you may find this annoying and may end up hiring a countertop replacement company to replace your countertop.

But the good news is that marble is generally easy to clean – much better if you keep it well-maintained every day. You don’t need to use commercial cleaners to clean your marble countertop. Here are some simple cleaning tips for these types of countertops.

Avoid using cleaners with an acid content, whether it’s a commercial or home-made cleaner containing lemon juice or vinegar. It can cause etchings and stain marks on the surface.
For deep-seated stains, use baking soda mixed with water, form it into a paste, apply on the stained area, and let it sit for around 24 hours before wiping it off. If it doesn’t work, you can consider hiring professional cleaning personnel instead.
Use a damp and soft cloth when wiping the marble countertop to prevent scratching the countertop material. Then wipe dry using a separate clean, dry cloth.
Use a product specially formulated for marble material. This can help make the countertop look like new again.

How to clean granite countertops

Some suggest cleaning granite countertops using commercial cleaners. Others say you should only use cleaners specially made for granite. It’s your call, but experts say there is no need to fight which option is better. You can use warm and soapy water, a microfiber cloth, and perhaps isopropyl alcohol. Here are other tips in cleaning a granite countertop.

Avoid using scrub pads in cleaning the countertop as it can possibly scratch its surface. You can also use a mild bleach solution to clean the countertop.
Mix baking soda and water, create a paste, and then scrub the mixture on the stained area using a soft brush. Let it sit for 24 hours before rinsing off. It may require reapplications to remove the stain completely.
Use a product specially formulated for granite and make the countertop look like new again.

How to clean quartz countertops

One of the major selling points of quartz is that it’s non-porous. Meaning, it won’t cause deep-seated stains, bacteria build-up, and scratching. But this does not mean you won’t clean it anymore.

You can use a commercial cleaner to maintain the quality of the countertop material. Or, you can also use gentle dish soap, warm water, and microfiber cloth to clean the countertop surface. Clean the surface immediately when spills occur.

How to clean other kitchen countertop materials

Here are other cleaning and maintenance tips for other countertop materials.

For wood countertops, use salt and sprinkle on light stains and scrub using half a lemon. Let it sit overnight and rinse with water and dry using a clean cloth. For darker stains, dab it with cotton with 3 percent hydrogen peroxide. Use mild dish soap, warm water, and clean cloth to wipe clean the surface.
For stainless steel countertops, use commercial cleaners specific for stainless steel material to remove smudges and other marks.
For glass countertops, use a glass or multi-purpose cleaner to wipe the countertop surface.
For ceramic countertops, use white vinegar to remove stains and to make the surface sparkling clean. Scrub the grout using mild bleach and old toothbrush and then seal with commercial grout sealer.

For your countertop needs, you can check out granite countertop installers in NC today.

Things to Consider Before Replacing Your Countertop

At some point, your bathroom or kitchen countertop will need some updating. It depends on your requirement. For example, you want to upgrade your current bathroom countertop and choose among brand-new quartz countertops options. Or you are eyeing granite kitchen countertops as a good replacement to your kitchen countertop.

However, it is important to consider different factors when you decide to replace your countertop. For one thing, countertop replacement doesn’t come cheap. It will also require setting a budget and creating a plan covering the “before, during, and after” the installation process.

Countertop installation may not affect your daily life. Still, it is important to plan ahead because it’s still considered as a major home project. Here are some important factors you need to think about before replacing a countertop.

What are the different countertop options?

There are different types of countertop materials you can choose from. Among popular countertop material options include:

Quartz – offers different color and pattern design options. It is also known for its durability.
Granite – offers attractive design and color options and has been one of the most popular countertop material for many years.
Marble – a natural stone material common in most residential projects. It offers elegant design options and is one of the most popular countertops and flooring designs for years.
Laminate – also known for its durability, different color, and design options.
Solid Surface – also available in different designs, colors, and finishing.
Concrete – offers a simple yet durable design. You can design and paint it any way you want.

Each of these popular countertop materials varies in material and labor costs. For example, marble and granite are the more expensive types among the above options. On the other hand, laminate material is more affordable in terms of installation and material costs.

Replacing your countertops depend on your need. For example, you may need to upgrade the countertop if it already has an outdated design. Likewise, maintenance problems may also contribute to the decision to replace the countertop. Damaged countertops may also need to be replaced as it can harbor bacteria and even cause potential injuries.

Before installation, make sure that the cabinets can support heavier countertop materials. Also, consider each countertop material’s maintenance needs. For example, granite countertops may need resealing from time to time. On the other hand, quartz kitchen countertops won’t need resealing or polishing.

Price vs value

As mentioned, the countertop material you choose will depend on your budget. Countertop materials vary in price and installation costs. For example, granite countertops are more expensive than laminate in terms of material and labor cost. Once you choose the material, decide which design, color, and grade you will need.

Hiring granite contractors can also add up to your total cost. Pre-fabricated countertops are available in many home improvement stores. If you are a DIY person, you can opt for these countertops so you can save cash from hiring professionals. But if you are not experienced with major home improvement projects, you should consider hiring a professional instead.

In addition, you should also consider your lead time. The duration of installation will depend on the material used and their availability. Usually, countertop contractors can finish the entire project in about two weeks.

Repair or replace?

There are instances wherein you may not need to replace your current countertop. It depends on the general condition of your countertop. For example, you may opt to repair the damaged part and retain the rest of the material. Not only can it save you extra money but also save time and effort from a tedious installation process.

If it’s only minor damage, you can simply repair the damaged part. But for major damages, you should consider replacing the entire thing. Here are some tips in choosing the right countertop material:

Measure your countertop area prior to shopping for a new one. This will help in estimating material costs.
Decide on what countertop material you will buy and you think will suit your needs.
Consider maintenance requirements when choosing a countertop material.
Use the right tools when repairing a countertop. Better yet, hire experienced personnel to do the job.

Choose the best countertop contractors near you

Countertop replacement is a major home project. For your kitchen or bathroom renovation needs, you should contact the best installer of kitchen countertops in Durham.

When Should You Replace Your Kitchen Countertop?

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

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

When should you replace your countertop?

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

Presence of cracks

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

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

Presence of burn or stain marks

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

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

Outdated design

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

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

Planning to sell your home

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

Should I repair or replace?

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

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

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

Countertop replacement tips

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

Consider maintenance requirements.

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

Consider your budget.

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

Hire the best countertop replacement company

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

Silestone countertops vs. Marble countertops

Silestone or marble countertops! Which is suitable for my kitchen?

Kitchen improvement is one of the most hectic tasks of the world. The most difficult thing in the entire kitchen renovation process is decision, decision. One of the most essential part of the kitchen is kitchen countertop and deciding which countertop is most suitable for you is not going be easy for you especially when plenty of choices are available to you. It is not easy to resist the natural beauty of marble and also the shine offered by the Silestone. Indeed, it is really a confusing task to decide which countertop is going to appropriate for your kitchen, but you can make your decision according to usability of countertop. Let’s take a quick glance over various features of both countertops:

Highlights of Silestone and marble countertops:

When it comes to appearance the white marble countertop is unmatchable and Silestone countertop lies nowhere near to them. Marble countertop can add aesthetic beauty to your kitchen. The white countertop has its own appeal which is irresistible. Well…. Well, it is a kitchen, and the countertop is the place where most of the kitchen tasks are going to happen. That’s why it is recommended that if you can afford frequent cleaning then the marble is suitable for you; otherwise you can opt for Silestone countertop.

In terms of durability the silestone countertops give neck to neck competition to marble countertops. Both countertops are highly durable and capable of giving long lasting services without any sort of problem. Silestone is a non-porous material which even offers scratch resistant and stain resistant service which marble could not. Yes! Marble is prone to scratch and stain.

Marble countertops are for white lovers because there is no other color option available in these countertops, but Silestone countertops have oodles of color option for you. To cut a long story into short, it can be concluded that both countertops are good, but as per kitchen’s applications, Silestone countertops are found to be a more appropriate alternative. For sure marble countertop can beat Silestone countertop when it comes to bathroom. Yes, marble countertops are more suitable for bathroom countertops. But people with classic taste can also think of marble countertop in kitchen as well.

Marble is a beautiful countertop but the drawback is that it stains very easily. Spills and solvents if left for a long period of time may cause permanent stains. Wipe away spills immediately to avoid any stains. Use a mild cleaning product, warm water and washcloth to clean it. Clean and wipe it daily with a mild cleaner. Do not use very harsh and strong cleaners as it will damage it. Marble is also very porous so you will need to get it sealed once every year so that liquids and food particles do not penetrate.

The Pros and Cons of Marble Countertop

Marble countertop will give your kitchen a luxurious look and make it more appealing. The kitchen countertop comes in a variety of colors and grains, and you will find one that suits your style. In this article, we tell you the advantages and disadvantages of marble countertop. You need to understand how to maintain your countertop to keep it looking good for years.

Advantages of marble countertop

Heat resistance

If you cook frequently, then you will be happy to know marble countertops are heat resistant. The countertop is resistant to heat up to a certain level. It’s therefore important to ensure that you don’t expose the countertop to too much heat. To maintain your countertop in good shape use trivets and pot holders when removing pots from the oven and avoid setting the hot pot on the countertop. Placing hot dishes on the countertop will discolor and may cause burn marks on the countertop.

Stain Resistant

After the countertop has been sealed it becomes stain resistant. It’s important to ensure that the sealing process is done professionally. Failure to seal the countertop properly will make it porous and prone to stains. You need to keep sealing the countertop often to avoid stains and bacteria. It’s best to let the marble installer seal your countertop for best results.

Durable

Marble maintain its look for a long time if well maintained. Avoid placing heavy weights on your countertop to avoid cracks. Marble countertops will last for a lifetime if well sealed and maintained. With proper care, you enjoy your marble countertop for years.

Easy to cut

Compared to other countertops marble is easy to cut, and you can create different designs and complex shapes. If you want to create a unique complex countertop, then marble is ideal.

Availability

Marble is readily available from the granite company. If you are looking to buy marble countertop, visit the marble dealer near you for a variety.

Beautiful

Marble stones stand out due to their timeless beauty. The countertop will never go out of style. It has beautiful veining that gives it a unique and outstanding look. If you need a countertop that you can use to complement your kitchen design, then marble countertop is the most ideal.

Disadvantages of Marble Countertops

Porosity

Marble is porous, and that makes it susceptible to stains. If your countertop is not properly sealed then your countertop will be stained. Acidic liquids and spills can cause your countertop to stain. It’s therefore important to ensure that your countertop is well sealed.

Avoid spilling acidic liquids or using abrasive items on your countertop because that remove the sealant and make the countertop vulnerable to stains.

Etching

Acidic liquids such as bleaches will remove the sealant and cause etching. That will make your countertop vulnerable to scratches and stains. Make sure that you place a board when cutting acidic fruits like lemon.

Cost of the marble countertop

Marble is relatively expensive. The white marble is especially expensive. To get the exact cost of your countertop to visit the marble dealer and get an estimate. The amount you need for the countertop will depend on the size and how much the dealer charges per square foot.

Consideration to make before installing a marble countertop

Before you install the marble countertop consider the following;

The thickness of the countertop

Work with the marble installer and determine the best thickness for your countertop.

Type of marble

There are different kinds of marbles. Each marble is unique. Visit the marble dealer and choose one that suits your kitchen.

Marble forms

Marbles are either in slabs or tile. Slabs are more expensive and seamless.

Maintenance

It’s important that you follow the right maintenance procedure to keep your countertop look good for years. Don’t let spills sit on the countertop for long. Avoid using sharp and abrasive objects on the countertop.

The countertop product NC you choose will determine the final look of the kitchen. When it comes to marble you can never go wrong. Marble countertop will give your kitchen a luxurious and make your house outstanding. The unique veining and styles make the countertop one of the best countertops. To make your home look expensive, consider using a marble countertop in the kitchen. Follow the care instructions as advised by the granite- marble installers.

Ways to Avoid Damaging Your Kitchen Countertops

Countertops perk up the value of your home and make your kitchen more functional. Marble, quartz and granite countertop are durable, but they are not immune to damage. It’s therefore important to ensure that you take care of the countertop to retain their look and prevent irreparable damage. In this article we look at simple procedures you can follow to prevent damaging your countertops.

How to Prevent Your Countertop from Damage

Use the right detergent and pad to clean the countertop

Acidic and abrasive cleaners will etch and damage your countertop. They will make your countertop appear dull. Make sure the cleaning material you use is meant for your kitchen countertop. Clean your granite or marble countertop with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. A microfibre is ideal when cleaning and removing food crumbs from your countertop. Avoid using harsh detergents and abrasive cleaning materials because that makes the countertop dull. The harsh detergents will also remove the sealant in granite and marble countertop. Removing the sealant will make your countertop porous, and that will expose your family to a disease-causing virus

Don’t cut directly on the kitchen countertops

Avoid using your countertop as the cutting board. Invest in a cutting board to avoid leaving marks on the countertop. Cutting or pounding heavily on the countertop will damage your kitchen countertop. If you have to pound meat make sure you don’t do it on the countertop.

Avoid direct contact with the heat

Exposing your granite or quartz countertop to too much heat will damage your countertop. Too much exposure to heat will cause the kitchen countertop to change color, crack or become brittle. Make sure you have trivets or hot pads before you place a pan on the countertop. You can also keep hot pans on the stove instead of placing them on the countertop.

Control spills

Although granite and quartz will not stain easily its important to wipe away spills immediately. However, if spills are wiped for a long time, they will result in stains. It’s therefore important to ensure that spills are wiped off immediately. Use a soft cloth and detergent to clean the spills. Granite countertop is durable, but if it absorbs moisture and dirt, it will begin cracking.

Avoid dropping or placing heavy objects on the countertop

Cracks and chips will occur when you place a heavy object on the countertop. Don’t step on the countertop when reaching for something in the cabinets. Your countertop is durable, but it will crack or chip when too much weight is placed on it. Don’t lean on the countertop because that adds extra weight and that could cause cracking.

Seal natural stones

Granite and marble countertop require sealing. If not sealed the countertop will absorb moisture, and that could lead to cracking. The granite contractor will asses how busy your kitchen is and advise how often you should seal your countertop. Use high-quality sealant to ensure that the top is well sealed. Sealing the countertops will make them more durable, and they will look good for long. Make sure you countertops are sealed often to keep them nonporous.

Follow the care instructions

It’s imperative to follow the right cleaning and maintenance procedure. Follow the right cleaning procedure for your kitchen countertop. The granite countertop installers will advise you on the best cleaning detergent for your countertop.

Exposure to harsh UV rays

Most countertops will become discolored when exposed to the sun. It’s therefore important to choose the right countertop if you are thinking of an outdoor countertop. Granite is one of the best outdoor countertop material. Although granite can withstand the harsh environment its best to have your outdoor countertop enclosed. That will protect it from the harsh sun and prevent discoloration.

Countertops are an investment and should be kept in the best state. The above simple tips will guide you on how you should maintain your countertop. It’s important to understand the kind of kitchen countertop in your home. Whether its a marble, quartz or a granite countertop Durham follow the care instructions given by the expert at the granite company. Your countertop will last long if you follow the right maintenance procedure. A well-maintained countertop will give your house a good appearance and a high value.