Tag Archives: marble countertop installation

Things You Should Know When Buying Marble Countertops

Marble countertops give your home an elegant appeal. If you love baking, they are the perfect units to go for, as they give you the perfect surface to work on.

If you are looking to buy the countertops, there are a number of things you should know. These things include:

If you are worried about stains, go with white marble

Although many people associate marble with creamy, white stone, there are hundreds of varieties that you can go with which include taupe, green, gold, red, and black.

White marble is best used for kitchen surfaces. This is because there are higher risk of stains forming here than anywhere else. In the event acid etching leaves a pale mark, it is considerably more visible on colorful marble than on white marble. You don’t want everyone to notice the stains on your surfaces, do you?

You should be ultra-cautious when using dark marble or nonwhite marble for kitchen countertops, as they can easily look dirty and out of place even with minor stains.

Consider how the different slabs will come together

Every stone slab is unique, so it’s best to choose the exact pieces of stone that you will use on your countertops. There’s an art to marble and choosing the right slabs and understanding the location of the veins is critical.

You want to artfully place the markings so that it’s almost like a painting. At the same time, it’s critical to consider how various components work together.

The longer the slab you can get without any seams, the better. If you do have seams on your slabs, it’s always nice to book-match the marble, so that neighboring pieces appear mirrored.

Take veining into consideration

Every quarry is unique, however, certain types of marble blocks can be cut in two different ways to produce distinct veining patterns.

For example, cross cut, or fleuri cut, produces stone slabs that are random and are good for book-matching.

Vein cut, also known as striato, slices the block in the opposite direction to create a linear, striped appearance.

Over the years, designers have used both cuts to create some unique looks. Some use vein-cut on the wall and cross-cut on the floor.

Consider the best finish to transform your marble

The entire stone industry has been experiencing a massive wave of technology, which is transforming the product.

Now, there are more options than ever to finish stone, including various brushing and polishing procedures. You can give your countertops an orange-peel texture, which is unique and adds interest to your surfaces.

While this is the case, you should note that the most common options remain polished (glossy) or honed (matte). For homeowners concerned about acid etching, go with a honed finish.

On a polished finish, etching will make the slab dull and more visible. With an honed finish, you’re dulling an already dull finish, so it disguises it.

Before you get the finish, take time to research it and find the one that will be best suited for your surfaces. If you are confused, get the input of a professional.

Consider the edging of the countertops

Aside from its natural beauty, there’s a reason marble has always been popular for sculpture: it’s easy to manipulate with tools. When current computer numerical control milling machines are included, practically anything is feasible in terms of kitchen decorating.

There are many edge profiles to choose from. For example, there is the simple softened edge, which reduces the sharpness of a straight 90-degree corner.

Hard stones like marble are brittle, so if you hit a 90-degree corner with something hard, it will chip. With a curve, it’s highly unlikely that it’s going to chip.

You need to ensure that during installation, the contractor you hire doesn’t leave a straight edge that will hurt the people or pets walking around. It also eliminates the chances of the stone getting damaged.

Take time to know the difference between fissures and cracks

Cracks indicate that the stone has been mishandled or poorly handled. However, fissures are quite different. A fissure differs from a crack in that it’s naturally occurring in the stone and does not change the plane of the marble surface.

Your nail should be able to slide across a fissure without getting caught.

Fissures may be okay depending on the look you’re going for—for example, if you want a stone with a more rustic appearance. Fissures do not affect the stone’s integrity; rather, they are part of its character.

When you are buying the marble, you will come across plenty of slabs with fissures. As mentioned, there is nothing wrong with fissures.

The problem comes when the countertops have cracks. You should avoid countertops with cracks as they tend to be weak.

Know the origin of the marble you are looking to buy

You should be cautious of the source of the marble you are looking to buy as it determines the quality of the stone.

White stones like Calacatta and Statuario are particularly popular right now. Some marble providers would refer to their white marble with veins as Calacatta marble.

But it won’t be authentic; it’ll be white stone with veins from China or anywhere else in the world, which tends to be cheap and low quality.

True Calacatta is sourced from mountain quarries in Carrara, Italy.

The same is true for Statuario: authentic Statuario marble comes from Italy. If you’re in a showroom and the vendors are offering something like carrara marble or carrara white, it’s important checking the stone’s origin.

To be on the safe side, go for marble that comes from Italy as it tends to be high quality.

Parting shot

These are some of the things you should know when you are looking to buy marble kitchen countertops Raleigh. After buying the countertops, you should ensure that you have them perfectly installed by experts.

You also should take good care of them. As a rule of thumb, don’t place hot objects on them, as they will get damaged. Also, be cautious of the cleaning products you use. You should always stay away from acidic cleaners as they are known to damage them.

7 exclusive ideas to transform your bathroom

Cultured Marble Vanity Tops

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

Minimalist ideas for achieving an elegant look:

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

Try experimenting with quirky tiles:

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

Curtail your budget with bold wallpapers:

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

Get the rustic look of the flooring:

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

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

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

Lighting fixtures can create huge difference:

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

Have you tried the ‘go-green’ theme?

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

 

Is marble a good material for bathroom vanity countertops?

bathroom countertop

Marble has been used by ace craftsmen throughout the ages to decorate palace ceilings, floors and walls. Though it was once a feature of luxury and power, today marble is making its niche more and more into regular homes — especially bathrooms— all over the world. Marble is one of the most popular bathroom countertop materials. Home décor experts are now favoring marble for bathroom countertops over other countertop materials.

Marble bathroom countertops perk

Bathroom countertops are equally important as kitchen countertops because they not only give a functional surface but also decorate the bathroom. The right bathroom countertop will be the combination of durability and aesthetics.

Marble is a classic material that is versatile enough to look good in all types of bathrooms. It is one of the most preferred bathroom countertop materials. The main reason why marble counters remain in constant demand is its elegant looks. This stone comes in a beautiful display of color, including white, rose, yellow, green, gray etc. No two slabs of marble are alike. It means you will get unique countertop for your bathroom vanity.

Bathroom vanity top has to survive in a harsh bathroom environment, and marble has the capability of bearing continuous water coming from shower, bathroom cleaning products, makeup chemicals, soaps, shampoos etc. This durable material can withstand all wear and tear. Marble is heat resistant stone as well. It means your hair styling tool won’t harm marble countertop.

Marble Countertop concerns

Marble Countertop Installation: If you want to enjoy the timeless beauty of marble countertop, you should pay attention over marble countertop installation. You can even customize the size and shape of marble countertops to make them suitable for your bathroom. On the other hand, if marble countertops are not installed properly on your vanity, it will not only look bad, but also create a lot of inconvenience in the bathroom.

Marble Countertop Quality: Everything that looks white is not marble. There are many types of marbles. It is important that you choose the quality stone for your bathroom countertop. To get a quality product, look for the best marble countertop factory.

Marble Countertops: Yes, they’re great!

Kitchen countertops

Everyone loves the white marble countertops. They look elegant, bright and add character to kitchen decor. Marble can also be one of the cheapest kitchen countertop options available to you if your kitchen makeover or bathroom remodeling budget is limited.

Guide to marble countertops

Marble countertops are considered great for bathrooms, fireplace surrounds and other locations which do not require heavy duty use. However, with proper maintenance, it is possible to use the marble countertops in kitchen as well. Let’s take a look at pros and cons of the marble countertop.

Marble countertops offer spectacular beauty

The main reason why marble countertops always remain in demand is there spectacular beauty. No matter in which corner you install marble countertops in your house, they will always look good. This stone comes with the wonderful display of color, which change the entire look and feel of the space.

Marble countertops can bear heat

The biggest misconception people have regarding marble countertop installation is that they are not apt for kitchen because they cannot bear the heat. But marble posses heat resistant property. It can withstand the hot pan and pot.

Marble countertops are easy to clean

From maintenance point of view, marble countertops are really very good. Marble countertops are very easy to clean. Just wipe it with wet cloth and you will get scintillating countertop surface. No extra effort is required to maintain the white surface of the marble countertop.

Concerns about marble countertops

The very first reason why marble countertop installations are not recommended for kitchen is there porosity. Marble is more porous than granite. It quickly absorbs liquid; it means marble countertop can readily absorb oil, wine, juice and other spills. Thus, if liquid spills are not cleaned on time, they can create permanent stain. Even, you will have to be cautious in bathroom with nail polish, liquid soaps, nail remover etc. Fortunately, sealing is available to homeowners to maintain the long lasting white beauty of the marble countertop.

So, these are the pros and cons to the marble countertops. They are beautiful countertop option available for bathroom vanities and kitchen counter. You should always consider hiring a reputable and trustworthy contractor for marble countertop installation.