Tag Archives: wood countertops

How Do You Keep Your Countertops Looking Like New?

Every homeowner’s dream is to keep their kitchen countertops looking new for as long as possible. After all, the countertops don’t come cheap, do they?

If you are one of these homeowners, you should know that there are plenty of ways to do it. How you keep your countertops in top shape depends on the nature of your countertops. To help you out, here are some of the ways to keep the various countertops looking new.

Marble

Marble is one of the hardest materials to maintain. Since it’s naturally porous and highly susceptible to etching, you should be cautious when preparing your meals. As a rule of thumb, don’t cut directly on the countertops.

You also should make it a habit to seal the countertops at least once a year.

If there is any surface damage or stains, move with haste and fix them as soon as possible. If there are oil stains on the surfaces, remove them using ammonia, mineral spirits, or hydrogen peroxide. For the food stains, lift them using water-based dish soap and baking soda paste.

Do your surfaces have chemical corrosion? Buff it out with marble polish.

Wood countertops

For elegant-looking butcher block countertops, apply mineral oil at least once a month. If your countertops aren’t butcher block, apply marine oil to keep the stain fade resistant.

Are there marks and burns on the countertops? Sand them out, then remove the stains using lemon juice or hydrogen peroxide.

Stainless steel

If you have stainless steel countertops, you know that scratches are inevitable on the surfaces. Thankfully, you can buff them out with an abrasive pad.

To protect your surfaces from rusting, prevent cast iron pans from contacting the countertops. If there are already rust stains, remove them using lemon juice and baking soda.

Quartz countertops

Quartz countertops are known to be heat, stain, and scratch-resistant. They are also nonporous and don’t need sealing. If your surfaces develop stains, apply a paste of hydrogen peroxide and flour, then let it sit for at least 24 hours.

Soapstone

Soapstone is also naturally nonporous, so it doesn’t require sealing. Unfortunately, nicks and scratches are common, so you should be cautious when working around them. Like marble, don’t cut directly on it. Also, avoid placing hard items on it.

If your countertops have slight discoloration from oil or any other material, rub out the discoloration using mineral oil.

Laminate countertops

The most common problem with laminate countertops is stains. Thankfully, you can remove them using baking soda paste. Leave the paste on the countertops for 3-5 minutes, and the paste will lift the stains out, leaving your countertops spotless.

If you have difficult stains that are hard to remove, get rid of them using bleach.

Concrete

You should start thinking about concrete countertops before you even install them. As a rule of thumb, seal the countertops before you install them. This is to prevent them from staining.

Besides this, make it a habit of applying tung oil a few times a year to keep the surfaces stain resistant. For a glossier look, apply wax regularly.

Solid surface

If there are stains or fine scratches on the surfaces, you can buff them out using a mild abrasive. The most common problem with the countertops is a plastic-like patina developing on the countertops. This patina is difficult to remove as you rarely have the right materials.

To avoid damaging your countertops while trying to remove the patina, let a professional handle it.

Ceramic tile

It’s easy to keep your ceramic tile countertops in top condition. Clean the surfaces regularly with a toothbrush and mildew fighting solution and fight occasional stains with diluted household bleach.

Granite countertops

The most important thing to do to your granite countertops NC is seal them. To prevent the countertops from stains, make it a habit to seal them once a year.

To find out whether your surfaces are properly sealed, splash some water on the surface, and if the water isn’t absorbed, the surfaces are properly sealed, but if the water absorbs fast, you need to apply another layer of sealant.

Thankfully, you can professionally seal the countertops without the input of a professional.

How Do You Clean Kitchen Countertops

To get rid of bacteria and keep your kitchen countertops looking spectacular, you have to clean them. Wondering how do you clean kitchen countertops? There is no one way to do it as different countertop materials have different cleaning methods. Some of the ways to clean these materials include:

Cleaning granite and marble countertops

Besides being one of the most popular countertop materials, they also share the same cleaning regimen. You need water, baking soda, tape, dish soap, hydrogen peroxide, and plastic wrap to clean the countertops.

You need to use warm water and mild dish soap, then follow up with a microfiber towel to shine the countertops. As a rule of thumb, avoid abrasive or acidic cleaners that will strip the sealer and etch the stone, exposing the countertop to stains.

Are there stains on the countertops? Use a baking soda and water paste to remove the oil-based stains. If the stains are water-based, remove them using hydrogen peroxide paste.

Apply the paste on the countertop, then cover it with plastic wrap. Tape down the edges, then let the paste sit on the stained area overnight.

The following morning, rinse off the paste. If the stain is still there, repeat the process until it goes away.

You should note that the paste can sometimes affect the color or the finish of the stone. To ensure this doesn’t happen to your countertops, spot test the paste before applying it to a large area.

To protect the countertops from stains, seal them regularly. As a bare minimum, seal them at least once every year.

How to clean wood countertops

To clean wood countertops, you need: distilled white vinegar, warm water, lemon, salt, spatula, nonabrasive cleaner, spatula, and microfiber cloths.

For spectacular-looking wooden countertops, clean them daily with a homemade mix of warm water with a splay of distilled white vinegar or a non-abrasive cleaner.

Before cleaning, always get rid of any food residues using a scraper or metal pastry. Once the countertops are clean, wipe them, so they are completely dry.

If there are any stains on the countertops, remove them using a lemon. Cut a lemon in half, then sprinkle salt directly on the stain. You should then use the lemon half to rub in the salt then once you are done, clean off the salt and lemon juice with water and vinegar.

While it might sound weird, you need to seal your solid wood countertops with food-grade oil or wax. This is to prevent the countertops from warping and cracking.

Cleaning laminate countertops

To effectively clean laminate countertops, you need: baking soda, water, mild household cleaner, and microfiber cloths. Cleaning the countertops is easy as all you need to do is clean the surfaces with a clean cotton cloth with water and a mild liquid detergent.

Are there stains on the countertops? Remove them using a paste of baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the stain, then let it sit for five minutes, after which you should rinse it off with a soft cloth.

You should note that baking soda is a mild abrasive, so don’t scrub it when cleaning. The stain should go away on the first try, but repeat the process if it doesn’t.

Unlike the other countertop materials, you don’t need to seal the countertops, but this doesn’t mean they are invisible. To protect your surfaces, use cutting boards and trivets to avoid burns and scratches.

Cleaning stainless steel countertops

These countertops are popular in commercial kitchens, but if you are one of the unique people that have them in your home, you still need to keep them in top shape.

Unlike granite kitchen countertops Raleigh, these countertops require the bare minimum to keep them spotless. All you need is to regularly wipe them down with soap and water.

To keep off scratches and eliminate smudges and streaks, use a microfiber towel, and cleaner especially made for stainless steel, to buff them out.

Although the countertops are tough, avoid using steel wool or abrasive scrubbing pads as they can scratch the surface.

You should note that with poor care, stainless steel can develop unsightly stains. To get rid of them, mix a paste of dish soap and baking soda. Use a soft cloth to rub in the direction of the grain.

Countertops and the Environment

kitchen countertop replacement

Choosing a kitchen or bathroom countertop is often about aesthetic value, durability and of course the price. However, these are not the only aspects that you should consider. A socially responsible homeowner should consider the impact of the countertop material on the environment and health. There are some countertop materials which are environmentally friendly while some materials are not safe for the environment. It is your responsibility to not to promote the use of materials that are dangerous to environment.

Choosing the environmentally friendly countertops

If you think that environmentally friendly countertop materials will not look good or will be expensive or will require more maintenance, then you are wrong. There are fantastic countertop materials which are not only environmentally friendly, but also fulfill needs and requirements of homeowners.

Natural stone countertops

Marble and granite are the most popular countertop materials. The good thing about these natural stones is that they are environmentally friendly. These countertop surfaces last for long period of time and are fully recyclable. However, process and transportation of these countertops requires a lot of energy, which is a big toll on environment.

Engineered quartz countertops

Engineered quartz is a manmade countertop material which consists of 90% quartz. This material utilizes polyester resin and pigments to get colors. The impact of quartz on environmental is low, as the raw materials are locally sourced, and fabrication also done locally. Thus, this manmade countertop is quite good in terms of environment friendliness.

Concrete countertops

Many homeowners think of concrete as a standard dray material, but painted concrete countertops are actually beautiful. Concrete is a good countertops material due to its to heat and scratch resistant quality. Manufacturing cement needs considerable energy and the concrete countertop processing create a lot more pollution than most countertop materials. The processing of the concrete countertop is not good for environment.

Wood countertops

Wood countertops are aesthetically pleasing. While cutting down trees may appear not safe for environment, but most wood countertops come from forests and made from fast growing tree species such as bamboo. Bamboo countertops are one of the most environmentally friendly countertops. However, their transportation is a big toll on the environment.

5 Great Countertops Materials: How to Choose the Best

Kitchen countertops

Are you looking for great countertop options? Are you interested in trying unconventional countertop materials? Or do you simply need cheap and reliable countertop material? Well, if your answer is YES, below mentioned litany can help you out in selecting the best countertop material for kitchen island as well as bathroom vanity.

Kitchen countertop materials

Nowadays, homeowners are looking beyond the convectional countertop materials (granite and marble). This is because now homeowners are much more interested in decorating their bathroom and kitchen in unique manner. Well, if you are planning kitchen or bathroom renovation, you can consider the below mentioned countertop material options:

Solid surface countertops

The acrylic and polyester countertops are gaining a lot of popularity, these days. Solid surface countertops are highly resistant to stains and scratches. Unlike natural stone countertops, it is possible to repair solid surface countertops. These countertops literally come in 100s of color and pattern options.

Plastic laminate countertops

Plastic laminated countertops are one of the most durable and hard-wearing countertop materials available in the market. Plastic laminate counters are generally made from kraft paper. These countertops can survive many years. This material is apt for both bathroom and kitchen countertops.

Ceramic tile countertops

If you are looking for beautiful yet cheap countertop material, then ceramic tile countertops can full fill all your needs and requirements. These countertops come in varieties of beautiful patterns. But don’t expect long lasting services from ceramic tile countertops. But always select the best countertop company.

Wood countertops

Wood countertops can give classic look to your kitchen and bathroom. Many homeowners avoid wood countertops because of mistaken perception that wood can harbor germs. In fact, wood provide 99.9 percent germ free countertop surface. However, wood countertops demand a lot of maintenance.

Concrete countertops

Concrete countertops look similar to natural stone countertops but they are available at cheaper price. They are more apt for bathrooms rather than kitchens. They prevent staining but are prone to cracking.

So, these are the popular countertop materials available in the market. Always choose reputable countertop company for purchasing countertops. Good countertop companies provide installation facility and offer genuine warranty on sold product.

What are the best countertop materials for a bathroom?

There are a plethora of options to consider when installing new bathroom countertops.  The Countertop Factory offers a wide range of both traditional countertop designs as well as more modern ones.  Some of the most traditional countertop options for bathrooms everywhere include marble countertops, granite countertops, soapstone countertops and slate countertops.  Some other ideas include limestone countertops, Corian countertops, recycled glass countertops and wood countertops!  Our team of experienced countertop contractors can help you decide which countertop materials are the best for your home based on your present home design and countertop budget.  Whether you’re looking for new bathroom or kitchen countertops, we are here for you!

Solid surface countertops are a great option when it comes to new countertops for the bathroom.  We offer a wide range of countertop brands that have been tested and approved by thousands of our customers.  We sometimes offer discount countertop options for our local customers, so be sure to inquire with a countertop installation contractor today!  We can help you completely transform your bathroom or kitchen into a beautiful oasis complete with gorgeous new quartz countertops or glass countertops!  Don’t wait to long to schedule a countertop consultation.  We can’t wait to work with you.

How much does countertop resurfacing cost?

All granite countertops and quartz countertops need a little touch up every now and then!  No matter how high quality your countertop materials are, they are bound to get at least a little scuffed up after months or years of regular use.  At The Countertop Factory, we provide complete countertop maintenance and countertop repair services!  That includes countertop resurfacing for a low, affordable price.  We repair and resurface tons of kitchen countertops and bathroom countertops on a daily basis throughout North Carolina.  We can even install brand new solid surface countertops in your home if you need them!

It’s easy to get lost in our sea of endless countertop options!  We’d be happy to make countertop recommendations to you based on your needs and budget.  We highly recommend laminate countertops, soapstone countertops, silestone countertops and recycled glass countertops for the bathroom.  On the other hand, some truly great choices for the kitchen include marble countertops, Corian countertops, tile countertops, wood countertops and recycled glass countertops.  Whichever style you choose, you won’t regret it!  New countertops can make or break any kitchen or bathroom, so it’s important to be absolutely sure of the countertop style you select.  Your brand new kitchen or bathroom awaits you!

Who are the most experienced countertop installers in North Carolina?

Are you looking for new laminate countertops for your kitchen?  You’re in the right place!  At The Countertop Factory, we provide the widest range of countertop options in North Carolina.  Whether you are looking for butcher block countertops for your kitchen or recycled glass countertops for your bathroom, we have got you covered!  When you work with us, we guarantee that you’ll find the best countertops for any room of the house.  Just a few of our most popular materials include granite countertops, marble countertops, tile countertops and silestone countertops.  We offer a large number of discount countertops to our loyal customers, so make sure to ask our countertop contractors about our sales!

We offer many popular granite countertop brands, including Corian countertops, Cambria countertops and Formica countertops.  We also have many eco countertops options if you are interested in a more environmentally friendly option.  Additionally, if you are not satisfied with any of our ready made wood countertops, we would be happy to create custom countertops for you in our very own countertop shop.  Take a look at our countertop photos to get an idea of the stainless steel countertops and copper countertops we have installed for our North Carolina customers in the past.

How do you install a kitchen countertop?

kitchen countertopsThere are dozens of countertops that would look great in your kitchen.  If you’re thinking of redesigning your kitchen but you aren’t sure of your countertop options, have no fear!  The countertop contractors at The Countertop Factory are brimming with endless kitchen countertop ideas to turn your average kitchen into a chef’s paradise!  We have been installing countertops in North Carolina kitchens for years and provide the widest selection of materials around.  Some of our most popular kitchen countertop options include butcher block countertops, laminate countertops, stainless steel countertops and recycled glass countertops.  Granite countertops are perhaps our single most popular item, and look great in any area of the house.

If you’re looking for a particular brand of stone countertops, we’ve got a number of very popular ones from which to choose.  For example, we carry a large load of Corian countertops, Cambria countertops and Silestone countertops.  Whether you are looking for high quality stone countertops or discount countertops, you have come to the right place.  Some of our best countertops to use as bathroom countertops are slate countertops, soapstone countertops, quartz countertops and wood countertops.  Be sure to get in touch with us soon so we can get started on improving the quality of your kitchen counters!

Where can I find quality countertop resurfacing?

granite countertopsThe Countertop Factory in North Carolina offers the widest range of solid surface countertops in Raleigh, NC.  The types of countertops we offer range from laminate countertops and prefabricated granite countertops to quartz countertops, soapstone countertops and marble countertops!  Our most popular product is granite countertop because of its versatility.  There are a variety of granite countertops colors and styles available to fit your individual needs.

Visit our main website to learn more about Corian countertops, butcher block countertops, concrete countertops, glass countertops and stainless steel countertops.  Currently some of our other most popular products are recycled countertops, wood countertops and faux granite countertops.  Give us a call today to learn more about our granite countertops prices!