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Commercial Applications for Quartz

If you are getting ready to build a commercial space or are considering giving your business an upfit, quartz is a great option for reception areas, conference room tables, office and commercial kitchens, bar tops, and so much more.

Many factors make quartz a great option for commercial use, but there are four main factors you should consider when choosing materials for your business: durability, ease of care, versatility, and aesthetics.

Durability

Quartz is perfect for commercial spaces in a variety of applications. From reception desks to conference tables to commercial kitchens, quartz is durable enough for everyday wear and tear from heavy traffic.

To understand its durability, it is important to know what quartz is. Quartz is an engineered stone material designed to stand up to hard use. Quartzite is one of nature’s hardest materials, and more than 90% of quartz is composed of quartzite and other natural stone materials. Because of its properties, the final product is scratch-, chip-, and heat-resistant and can be used in a variety of applications.

Quartz is resilient and beautiful on its own and requires no polishing or sealing. It would also be an excellent choice for a bar or pub that receives heavy traffic or a conference room table. Because of its durability, a conference room table would maintain its lustrous appearance for years to come. And a quartz bar top could withstand the wear and tear of customers and employees from plates sliding across the surface to bottles and glasses being knocked against the top.

Ease of Care

In addition to its durability, quartz is incredibly easy to care for. Unlike many other natural stone materials, quartz does not require any sealing because it is non-porous. Natural stone, such as marble and granite, require yearly (or more) sealing to keep it looking clean and new.

Quartz is resistant to harmful bacteria that can grow in porous materials and cause health concerns. This makes quartz a great option for kitchens and bathrooms where there is regular moisture.

Quartz is also stain-resistant — there are no pores for stains to soak into. Just wipe away any spills with warm water and mild soap. Natural stone such as marble stains easily because it is a softer, more porous stone, whereas quartz is solid and will not stain easily. Quartz is also available in patterns that simulate marble — without the stain factor.

Aesthetics

Quartz is also an attractive material that comes in a variety of colors and patterns to enhance any commercial space. Quartz is superior to other natural stone surfaces because it simulates the look of natural stone surfaces without the imperfections and inconsistencies of natural stone. Quartz countertops are always consistent in color and pattern, and they are also available in solid colors and patterns.

Quartz is an engineered stone created from quartzite and other natural minerals. As a man-made material, consistency in color and pattern can be controlled unlike natural stone. For example, granite often varies in color and pattern from piece to piece, meaning what you see in the showroom may not be exactly what is installed in your home. Quartz, on the other hand, is an honest material — what you see is always what you get.

Versatility

Quartz is not limited to countertops. It can be used for reception desks, backsplashes, bar tops, conference tables, “waterfall” installations and more. It is available in many colors and designs that can bring a unique aesthetic to any space.

Quartz not only adds a welcoming, luxurious look to the reception desk, but it also provides a practical element to a lobby. As one of the most durable surfacing materials on the market, quartz works well in heavily trafficked spaces such as reception areas. While most used for countertops, it could also be used in many other applications.

Why Quartz?

Whether it be a commercial kitchen, bathroom, or foyer, your commercial space will see more traffic than its residential counterparts. While many homeowners still choose natural stone surfaces, quartz is the best material for commercial spaces because of its durability, maintainability, and aesthetics.

When building a commercial space, the last thing you want to worry about is the integrity of your building materials. Your space should be something you can depend on, and quartz will erase your worries.

If you need help deciding which stone to choose for your commercial space, C & C Stoneworks can help make that decision easy. Our design specialists can help you choose the perfect stone from our wide selection of products. We serve eastern North Carolina, including Greenville, Washington, Goldsboro, Morehead City, and New Bern. Stop by our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC to get started!

C & C Stonework’s Guide to Updating Your Countertops

Have you been living in your home for over 10 years? Did you recently purchase an older home? Are you looking for a bathroom or kitchen renovation that fits your style? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are ready to update your kitchen or bathroom countertops.

C & C Stoneworks has put together this straightforward guide to walk you through the process of customizing your dream countertops with our expert team. From your initial consultation with our amazing design consultant to the final installation by our team of experienced professionals, C & C Stoneworks is ready to make the process as seamless as possible.

Step 1: Consider a Design Consultation

It is helpful for you to explore countertop options on your own, however consulting with a design professional can provide invaluable guidance and expertise on making final selections. At C&C Stoneworks we have an interior design consultant, design assistants, and showroom assistants available to help you narrow down your options based on your specific design vision and needs. Our team has years of experience and in-depth knowledge of different countertop materials, their characteristics, and how they fit within various kitchen design styles. Our showroom is filled with a variety of countertop materials and finishes from brand partners and trusted suppliers. We can help you with recommendations tailored to your preferences and budget. If you prefer an in-home design consultation, one can be scheduled. This is where our design consultant can come to you, and you can view samples in the comfort of your home. Whether in the showroom or in your home, the goal of a design consultation is to help you get a clear vision of how your new design will complement your home’s existing décor.

Step 2: With You Every Step of the Way

Once you have decided to proceed with your kitchen or bathroom countertop project, the C & C Stoneworks team will be with you every step of the way. Our team of experts will guide you through the entire process of selecting the best countertop for your needs. We will understand your needs and help you select the natural stone countertop that fits your style and lifestyle. We will be there to answer any questions or concerns you have along the way. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you get the countertop of your dreams.

Step 3: Template and Layout

Our next steps will be to schedule a template date when our experienced team will come to your home to obtain exact measurements with our laser template machine. These measurements will be used by our skilled team who will create a digital layout highlighting how your countertops will look upon completion. This step ensures your countertop will fit perfectly in your kitchen or bathroom.

Step 4: Custom Cutting

Once the measurements have been taken and finalized, we will begin the process of preparing the natural stone you choose for custom cutting. With state-of-the-art machinery, we guarantee precise and accurate cuts that will bring your vision to life. From cutting the stone to finishing the edges we want nothing more than to assure your countertops are perfect.

Step 5: Installation Day

The day you have been waiting for is finally here – installation day! Our experienced team will promptly arrive at your home as scheduled. We are there to remove the materials and professionally install your new countertops, sinks, and backsplash with the precision and care eastern North Carolina has come to expect from C & C Stoneworks. And don’t worry – we will be sure to leave your home immaculate, so you can start enjoying your upgraded kitchen or bathroom immediately.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Space

Finally, with your new countertops installed, it is time to entertain and show off your transformed space to family and friends. Whether you are cooking a meal in your updated kitchen, serving appetizers on your new countertops or bar space, or simply relaxing in your updated bathroom, your dream countertops are sure to bring joy and satisfaction for years to come.

At C & C Stoneworks we want to see you happy in your home with beautiful countertops. If you have more questions about countertop installation, want help picking out your new countertops or are ready to have your dream counters installed, call us today at (252) 902-5535.

Top Reasons You Should Upgrade Your Kitchen Countertops

You could tackle many home improvement projects that would add value to your home and transform its overall appearance. However, installing new natural stone countertops is the easiest way to transform your home immediately and increase its value. Whether you change the countertops in your bathroom, renovate your kitchen, or create a stylish indoor or outdoor bar area, new countertops can make a difference.

Here are three reasons why new natural stone countertops are an excellent investment for your home.

1. New Countertops Increase the Value of Your Home

One of the most undeniable reasons to invest in new countertops is that they will increase your home’s value and are a huge selling point for home buyers. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that homeowners who upgrade their countertops experience high satisfaction, want to spend more time at home, and also make back about 60% of the upgrade cost when it comes time to sell.

New countertops can enhance the aesthetic of your home’s kitchen or bathroom – the two areas buyers focus on the most when purchasing a home. High-quality materials like granite, quartz, or marble look luxurious and offer durability and longevity. These attributes can significantly boost the market value of your home, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers.

2. New Countertops Enhance the Overall Aesthetic Appeal of Your Home

Countertops are one of the first things people notice when they walk into a kitchen or bathroom. A sleek, modern countertop can instantly update the look of your space, making it feel more contemporary and stylish. With a wide range of materials, colors, and finishes, you can customize your countertops to match your taste and your home’s existing décor. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of marble, the rustic charm of butcher block, or the sleek look of quartz, there’s a countertop material that will enhance the visual appeal of your space.

Homes with highly outdated kitchens and bathrooms will likely be outdated everywhere else. So, if you’re looking to refresh your entire home, upgrading your countertops is the best place to begin. You’ll be amazed at the transformation once your kitchen counters are upgraded. Beautiful countertops will set the tone for the rest of your home and be a focal point for anyone welcome inside.

3. New Countertops are a Quick and Easy Upgrade to Your Home

Installing new countertops is relatively quick and straightforward compared to other home renovation projects. With the help of a professional installer, you can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom in just a few days. This makes new countertops a practical choice for homeowners who want to make a significant impact without the hassle of a lengthy renovation process.

Once you upgrade your countertops, you shouldn’t have to replace them again for a long time as long as you select a timeless design and a high-quality product. The team at C & C Stoneworks can help you choose the right countertop option.

Upgrade Your Countertops with C & C Stoneworks

New countertops are more than just a surface to place your toiletries, prepare food, or serve a meal – they reflect your style and are a vital component of your home’s functionality and value. Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or want to enjoy a more beautiful and efficient space, investing in new countertops is an intelligent decision. From increasing home value to improving functionality and aesthetics, new countertops offer a range of benefits that make them one of the best investments you can make in your home. So, why wait? Upgrade your countertops today and enjoy the many advantages they bring to your space!

If you are ready to reap the benefits of countertops, C & C Stoneworks is prepared to help. We’re with our customers every step of the way. We offer premium granite, marble, porcelain, and quartz countertops that are a surefire way to upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen and home.

Could You Be Damaging Your Quartz Countertops?

Just because quartz countertops are among the strongest countertops you can purchase, that does not mean they cannot be damaged. If you have quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, over time they could show signs of wear and tear.

Protect your investment and read this blog. It will review some of the ways that you could be damaging your quartz kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Using Sharp Objects to Cut Food on the Countertops

One way to avoid damaging your countertops is to always use a cutting board and avoid cutting directly on your kitchen countertops.

Although quartz is  durable, cutting directly on their surface with knives could scratch them. You need to be especially careful if you are using knives that are made with diamonds. The Mohs scale measures the hardness of minerals, and quartz is 7 to 7.5 and diamonds have a Mohs hardness of 10. This means that those knives can scratch minerals with a lower hardness – so they will scratch quartz countertops.

Putting Hot Items Directly on the Countertops

Aside from not using your quartz kitchen countertops as a cutting board, you should also avoid putting hot pots, pans and serving wear directly on them. Quartz countertops are able to withstand some amount of heat, because unlike other types of stone such as granite and marble, quartz is manufactured. The quartz used to create your quartz kitchen and bath countertops is resistant to heat, however the resin added is not.

Thus, heat greater than 390 degrees Fahrenheit can scorch your quartz countertops. Using trivets or other items to keep scorching hot items from touching the surface can prevent damage. Remember ladies, those flatirons that go over 400 degrees can scorch your quartz bathroom countertops, so always make sure you are laying it on a towel and cutting it off when it is not in use.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

One of the more common ways quartz countertops are harmed or damaged is that the wrong cleaning products are used on them. Just because you have been using a specific cleaner on your countertops does not mean that it is the correct product for your bathroom or kitchen quartz countertops.

There are everyday cleaning products that may contain alkaline or acid that are not good for your quartz countertops. In order to ensure the longevity of your quartz countertops, you must use a product specifically designed for quartz.

Disinfecting Your Bathroom with Bleach

Because your bathroom and kitchen are high-traffic areas, they can be a breeding ground for germs with your countertops being at the top of the list. It is important to clean and disinfect your countertops in these high traffic areas to keep bacteria  away.

Quartz countertops are non-porous, so they naturally repel germs and bacteria, but disinfecting occasionally is fine. However, stay away from using bleach, as it can discolor your countertops. A safer cleaning solution is always going to be a mild soap mixed with water, then wipe away with a dry microfiber towel or soft sponge.

Putting Too Much Weight on Them

Quartz is a solid stone countertop – just like granite and marble. However, there is such a thing as too much weight. So, be careful about sitting on them, as well as using heavy appliances that vibrate during use.

Staining is Possible

With quartz countertops being non-porous, they do not absorb liquids, meaning they are less likely to stain than stones such as marble or granite. However, it is possible for them to stain so you should try to clean up spills as quickly as possible, so the stains do not settle into your bathroom or kitchen countertops.

Getting Them Sealed

Marble and granite countertops need to be sealed regularly. Quartz countertops do not and doing so could ruin your kitchen or bathroom countertops. You must seal stone countertops because they are porous and when they are not sealed, they can absorb spills and germs. With quartz being non-porous, sealing is never needed.

Ask the Countertop Experts at C & C Stoneworks

Although quartz countertops are extremely durable, you must take care of them so they will last. Make sure you are properly cleaning and maintaining your quartz kitchen and bathroom countertops so they will last for years to come.

If you have questions about your quartz countertops or are looking to install new kitchen or bathroom countertops in your home, the professionals at C & C Stoneworks are here to help.

Our design center is a one stop shop for affordable stone countertops including granite, quartz, and marble. With over 20 years of experience in countertop fabrication, installation, and remodeling, your kitchen or bath is in good hands when you trust C & C Stoneworks.

Visit our design center today and let us help you put together ideas for your kitchen or bathroom. Our professional, friendly team is here to help. Come see us today!

Best Stone Choices for Kitchen Countertops

When customizing your kitchen, one of the most important decisions you will make is which countertop material to select. And, with many stone countertop options available, the decision could be a difficult one!

Countertops are the focal point of your kitchen. It is important that they are not only aesthetically appealing, but that they can withstand life’s daily challenges and still maintain their beauty over time. Durability is important. You deal with water, heat and sharp objects, so your kitchen requires resilient material.

Are you wondering what surfaces make the best countertops? Natural stone is the perfect choice for countertops, it is durable and has many beautiful designs. We’re going to give you some information on five stone options to help you decide which one is right for you!

Granite

Granite has long been one of the most popular choices for kitchen countertops. Its natural look and feel are what attracts people to this stone. On top of its beauty, granite is also known for being extremely durable. It’s ability to withstand abrasive damage and heat is what makes granite the most commonly used stone for kitchen countertops.

There was a time when granite was almost exclusively used in luxury homes. Now, granite has become the go-to stone for countertops. Granite is a very versatile stone, and with many color options to choose from you are sure to find something that will elevate the look of your space. Over the last few years, the production of granite slabs along with alternatives has increased, leading to the decrease in price, making granite a much more affordable stone.

Granite is an igneous rock that forms naturally deep in the Earth’s crust. Here, the pressure and temperature exceed 2300 degrees Fahrenheit. The intense pressure and temperature cause small particles of quartz and feldspar to fuse together. This process is what gives granite that speckled look. The speckled look is not only visually appealing, but also helps to cover seams and is responsible for the stones impeccable heat resistance.

Before putting granite slabs to use, it is important that they have been sealed. This closes up any small crevices or pores and makes the countertop safe for food preparation. Granite countertops should also be regularly resealed, it is recommended once a year.

Quartzite

Quartzite, similar to granite, is a naturally occurring stone that is known for its beauty and durability as countertop material.

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock that is formed when quartz sandstone undergoes extreme pressure and temperatures, quite similar to the process in which granite is formed. During this process, quartz, grains and cementing materials re-crystallize into an interlocking mosaic with a smooth, glassy surface.

The higher density of quartzite is one of its most significant advantages. This makes the stone resistant to chipping, staining, or scratches. Quartzite resembles marble and this resemblance adds to its value, because marble is often considered the epitome of luxury when it comes to countertop material.

Quartzite countertops also require regular sealing and resealing, but other than that quartzite is very low maintenance.

Dolomite

Dolomite is another natural stone that is becoming increasingly more popular. Dolomite’s increase in popularity is largely due to its durability and affordability compared to marble. It is often referred to as ‘dolostone’ to distinguish it from the mineral dolomite, which is a significant component of its composition.

Dolomite is sediment rock that forms naturally when limestone interacts with magnesium-rich groundwater and undergoes chemical changes. Dolomite can oftentimes be mistaken for marble because it normally comes in white or grey shades with streaks. Dolomite is considerably stronger than marble, making it resistant to scratches and chips.

Although dolomite is very abundant, the lack of variation in color choices makes it less useful as a substitute for marble countertops. Again, like most countertops’, dolomite requires sealing and regular resealing to prevent staining.

Marble

Marble is one of the most premium stones used for countertops. Renowned for its historical use in classical sculpture and as building material over centuries, marble is associated with luxury.

Marble is a metamorphic rock that is formed naturally under intense pressure in the Earth’s crust from limestone or dolomite. The formation process can cause impurities that result in a wide array of colors and patterns, which makes the stone more appealing.

Although marble countertops are widely popular, they are less durable than many of the other options on the market. Marble is porous which makes it very susceptible to staining unless it is regularly treated with sealant! It is not as hard as dolomite, granite or quartzite which makes it more prone to scratches and chips, and it can be affected by harsh chemicals.

Engineered Stone / Quartz / Porcelain

When discussing the best surfaces for kitchen counters, the list would be incomplete without mentioning engineered stone surfaces. Unlike natural stone, these materials were specifically designed to function as countertops, making engineered stone perfectly suited for this purpose. There are many different types of engineered stone to choose from.

Engineered Quartz is made of loose quartz particles bound together with resin. This is one of the most popular choices for countertops. It is nearly indestructible due to its hard and flexible structure, allowing it to resist scratching, cracking, and chipping. Quartz countertops are available in a variety of colors and can even be made to resemble marble. The cost of a quartz countertop is about the same as Quartzite, although they are much more durable except when it comes to heat. The resin in quartz countertops can sometimes melt when in contact with high temperature. It is important to use care when dealing with hot pots and pans.

Porcelain is one of the oldest types of engineered stone surfaces, available in almost any color, style, and texture. Porcelain is manufactured with extreme heat, making it very durable and heat resistant.

Sintered stone is one of the newest types of porcelain, this is hands down the most durable surface we have listed. Manufactured by heating to the point of liquification, and then formed into slabs or tiles, this surface is heat, scratch, and stain resistant. Just like natural stone, the coloring on sintered stone goes all the way through, making edges and bevels retain the same look as the rest of the countertop!

There are other options to choose from, including soapstone, wood and laminate, however those are harder to maintain and are less recommended than these top five. However, when designing or redesigning your kitchen, it is important to choose whatever surface best reflects your style and needs.

If you’re designing a new home or simply remodeling your kitchen, be sure to contact the team at C&C Stoneworks. We’d love to go over your countertop options and help you create the kitchen of your dreams. Give us a call at 252-902-5535 or visit our showroom at 6144 NC Hwy 43 South in Greenville, North Carolina today.

Is it time to replace my bathroom countertops?

Bathroom countertops can be easily overlooked, but they play an important part in your home. Every member of your home and a lot of visitors will use this room. So even though it may not be the first room you think about when it comes to a design change, your bathroom does affect the overall attractiveness of your home.

If you are wondering whether or not it’s time to replace your bathroom countertops, C&C Stoneworks is here to help. We have compiled a list of things to look for when deciding if it is time to replace bathroom countertops, as well as a few things you should consider when picking the right stone for your bathroom.

Five reasons to update your bathroom countertops:

1. You can see visible damage.

If your countertops are beginning to show signs of damage such as cracks, chips, or deep stains, you may want to consider replacing them. Over time, products like laminate can show damage which can make the countertop less attractive, but it could also start absorbing water, never drying out, which can lead to further damage.

2. You are seeing mold.

Once your countertops have begun to show signs of wear and tear from daily use, they could become difficult to maintain. If you cannot easily clean the countertops, or they are not withstanding moisture, it is time to consider a change. When your countertops get wet and are absorbing your bathroom’s moisture, your bathroom will become a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. At this point it is best to replace your countertops. You do not want to gamble with mold, so protect your family by replacing your bathroom countertop.

3. You are not happy with the look of your bathroom countertops.

If you have been in your home over 10 years you may have grown tired of your bathroom, so a remodel may be in order to refresh your space. Replacing your countertops could be the exact change you are looking for. Replacing your older countertops with a more modern choice such as granite, quartz, or porcelain can breathe new life into space.

4. You are planning to sell your home.

If you are preparing to sell your home, a bathroom remodel is a great way to revamp your space and boost your home’s value. Oftentimes homebuyers prioritize the kitchen and bathroom when searching for a new home. Replacing countertops in your bathroom can make your home more appealing to buyers and increase its value.

5. You are experiencing lifestyle changes.

As your needs change, so might your ideal bathroom set up. Whether you need more space to accommodate more people, or you need more space for your essentials, a bathroom remodel may be just what the doctor ordered. Replacing the countertops in your bathroom can help to create a space that is better fit for your lifestyle, whether they be larger, smaller, or offer more counter space.

Bathroom Countertop Choices

You have decided to remodel your bathroom, now you need to decide which countertop material is right for you and your space. One of the most popular choices is granite. Granite is durable and comes in numerous colors and patterns. Another option is marble, which is an alluring choice for bathrooms because of its luxurious appearance. However, it is more delicate and porous than other materials which makes it a less desirable choice because it also requires more maintenance than other countertop options available.

Quartz is a preferred bathroom countertop material because of its low-maintenance qualities, durability and nonporous surface. It is resistant to staining and bacteria growth, making quartz  an excellent option for bathroom countertops.

Another excellent choice for the bathroom is porcelain. Porcelain can really lighten up a space and its light coloration can help your bathroom space feel larger.

Aside from durability and maintenance requirements, your choice of countertop materials will also depend on your budget and personal preferences. C&C Stoneworks is here to help you weigh all your options and provide you with the information you need to make an informed bathroom countertop choice. One you will be happy with, that meets your needs and lasts a lifetime.

If you have decided that it is time to replace your bathroom countertops, be sure to reach out to the team at C&C Stoneworks. We will help you create the bathroom of your dreams. Give us a call at 252-902-5535 or visit our showroom at 6144 NC Hwy 43 South in Greenville, North Carolina today.

Choosing the Right Stone for Your Outdoor Kitchen Counter

Outdoor kitchens are a great additional space for enjoying barbecues, birthday parties, or just family time. They are an extension of your home, and eastern North Carolina provides the perfect weather for you to enjoy cooking and hosting outside. If you are preparing to design an outdoor kitchen area, it is important to consider which type of countertop will work best for you. At C&C Stoneworks we want our customers to get the most out of their outdoor space, so we are here to help.

Some countertop options are more fitting than others, depending on your outdoor space. Will it be exposed to all types of weather? Where will the outdoor kitchen be in your yard, and how much upkeep do you want to perform on the space?

While marble and quartz are not the best options for an outdoor kitchen, here are some pluses and minuses of a few outdoor countertop choices.

Granite

Granite countertops are extremely durable and can withstand the outdoor elements. Weather and precipitation are no match for this resilient stone. Because of the pattern and composition of granite, it is low maintenance in that you do not have to constantly wipe it down to keep it clean, which makes it the perfect natural stone countertop for grilling and hosting friends in your outdoor kitchen.

While granite has many benefits, it is durable and when properly maintained is not easily stained by moisture or sunlight, there are some things that need to be considered when selecting granite. Granite does require sealing and the sealing frequency will depend on the type of sealer used, and how much abuse the countertop gets, but you should expect to reseal it yearly.

If possible, it is best to have the surface covered to protect from harsh exposure of sun, rain, and snow. If in direct sunlight, these counters can retain heat and feel hot to the touch – so covering your counter with a shade structure can help!

Porcelain

Porcelain is a practical and stylish option for your outdoor kitchen countertops. Porcelain is made of non-porous ceramic clay, and since it is manufactured under extremely high temperatures, it is a heat-resistant option that will hold up to years of use outdoors. It is also stain-resistant and exceptionally durable, able to withstand regular wear and tear as well as the effects of nature – all while mimicking the beautiful look of natural stone. Porcelain will also handle harsh temperature changes, which makes it a good option for climates where temperatures drop below freezing in the winter.

The only drawback that needs to be considered is that porcelain is typically manufactured in thinner slabs than other natural stone options. This means your edge profile options will be limited.

Whatever natural stone countertop style you prefer to use on your outdoor kitchen, C&C Stoneworks can help. We can help make recommendations based on the design, aesthetic, and maintenance that you are looking for in an outdoor kitchen. Visit our showroom and let our design specialist help you determine your options or call us today at 252-902-5535.

The Finish You Choose for Your Granite Countertops Matters

Most people don’t know that they can pick a finish for their granite countertop. It is probably because they’ve never thought about it, but your countertop’s look can change significantly based on the finish that is chosen. Even changing the overall look and feel of your kitchen.

Each finish has its own appeal, so choosing a countertop finish really matters. The finish affects not only how your completed kitchen looks, but how functional it is and how long it will last. One of the many reasons granite countertops are loved is because they look great, but they are also durable and strong, and can last decades.

Granite is also beautiful because it comes from nature. The finish you select for your countertops can enhance its natural beauty. Each finish looks and feels a little different, requires various levels of care and lasts different amounts of time.

What are some of the more popular granite countertop finishes?

The Polished Finish

This is the most used finish. It is shiny like a mirror, and it enhances the reflection of the granite making its natural colors and designs really standout. This finish also seals the stone, making it more resistant to stains. One thing to note is that it may scratches a little easier with this shiny finish, especially if the countertop is used frequently.

The Honed Finish

The honed finish is the opposite of the shiny finish you get with polishes. This finish is matte, and it is exceptionally smooth. This finish can best be described as very subtle and natural looking. This finish will hide scratches however, it may stain more easily because the stone’s pores are more open than in a polished finish.

The Leathered Finish

A leathered finish is a newer finish, and it aims to add texture to the granite. This does an excellent job of hiding fingerprints and can be a good option for a busy family kitchen. This finish is visually compelling, subtly stated, and easy to clean.

First You Need to Choose Your Countertops

If you are ready to choose the perfect granite countertop for your home and are unsure what the right stone and finish should be, let the professionals at C&C Stoneworks help. C&C Stoneworks has been creating stunning kitchens and bathrooms throughout eastern North Carolina for years.

Quartz, granite, marble, or something different like porcelain, we have the countertop for your lifestyle. Visit our showroom and speak to one of our design professionals today.

Customizing Your Stone Countertops

All stone countertops, such as granite, quartz and marble, can be tailored to a customer’s specifications. Some may choose to keep it simple, while other homeowners may choose to make a bolder statement by choosing creative edges, a nontraditional finish or multiple levels for seating and food preparation. When the experts at C and C Stoneworks customize granite countertops, it is a skillful process.

Our team has years of experience and uses high-tech tools that take the simple granite slab you selected into a finely cut marvel ready for installation in your kitchen. The customization of granite countertops is done carefully and accurately to ensure that each countertop is unique to the customer’s kitchen design.

At C and C Stoneworks our goal is to ensure every countertop we create, and install, has the exact design and look the customer has been dreaming about, and this is how we get there!

1. Talking and Planning Your Kitchen Design

First,  our design specialist has a thorough conversation with the client. Then we will view the kitchen layout and discuss the client’s ideas for not only the countertop, but the sink, island, backsplash, and any special sections for prepping food or additional seating. Your entire project relies on this first step to make sure the final product matches what our customers are envisioning.

2. Creating a Digital Template for the Countertops

Next, we will measure your kitchen and surface areas. Gone are the old ways of measuring, today we use digital technology to create a perfect digital version of kitchen countertops. This ensures every measurement is exact and allows us to see and alter the design before cutting the granite countertops – making mistakes unlikely.

3. Fabricating and Customization of the Granite

The first part of customizing is the cutting. Most countertop fabricators use a digital saw and laser where the digital plan instructs the cutting, and it is exact. This advanced technology and equipment makes precise cuts and edge designs, ensuring each piece of granite is a perfect fit. This technology is also great for complicated designs, such as multi-tiered areas and curved islands, and detailed cuts around sinks.

4. Shape and Shine the Edges

Then the personalization takes place. This is where the granite is shaped to meet your preferences. After cutting the basic shape, the edges are created. C and C Stoneworks uses machines for this, ensuring that the edges are precise. And, then the polish step makes the smooth surface shine, allowing the beauty of the granite to shine through.

5. Quality Check and Finishing Details

Every piece of granite is checked to ensure that it meets our high standards. Any final additions, such as sealing to protect from stains and spills, are added now. This keeps the granite looking great and lasting a long time.

6. Installation

The last step is the installation of the countertops. Our team of experienced professionals make sure everything fits just right. Each piece of granite is secure, paying close attention to the seams and the fit around the sink, appliances and backsplash. The end product is a seamless and striking kitchen our customers are sure to enjoy for years to come.

The Professionals

Custom-cut granite countertops need the touch of professionals. Custom countertops combine skill and precision with the use of modern technology. And the end result is a kitchen countertop that is not only useful, but a work of art that adds to your kitchen’s beauty and value.

Your Local Granite Countertop Team

C and C Stoneworks is the countertop fabricator you need for your kitchen countertop remodel. We have years of experience in fabricating and customizing granite, quartz and marble countertops that are seamlessly installed and enjoyed by homeowners throughout eastern North Carolina including Greenville, New Bern, Goldsboro, Morehead City and Washington. Stop by our Greenville showroom and let our design specialist help you explore our options. The kitchen you have been dreaming about is ready to take shape with our help!

Why Quartz Countertops are Great if you Love to Bake

Design choices are an important part of making your house a home, especially in the kitchen, where cooking and baking is the main priority. When choosing a countertop, it is important to consider more than just looks. We’ve got the details on why a quartz countertop is the best choice for a baker.

Temperature Control

Whether you’re baking pies, cookies, or bread – there is always dough to roll out. With quartz countertops, the counter temperature is always cool, which keeps ingredients from melting, crusts crispy, and makes it easier to mold and cut dough. An extra benefit is that quartz countertops are not chemically sealed, so you don’t have to worry about your ingredients or dough touching any chemicals.

Not Porous and are Easy to Care For

Quartz countertops are not porous, which means it resists stains much better than granite and marble. For bakers, who typically prepare food directly on their counters, this means you will likely have an easy clean-up, whether you have spilled wine, butter, or flour. This also means there are significantly less places for bacteria to reside, making your countertops remarkably sanitary! Cleaning your quartz countertop is an easy feat, simply use a wet cloth to it wipe down.

Extremely Durable

Quartz is also very durable, and resistant to heat and scratches. No matter what, we recommend using potholders and cutting boards – but the occasional slip up will not result in burns or scratches! Regardless, the consistent use of pots, pans, rolling pins, baking sheets, and mixers is no problem for a quartz countertop!

Mix of Real Stone and Resin

Quartz is made from real stone and resin, which makes it more tough and resilient than most other stones. Because quartz is so durable and is made from recycled material, it hardly ever needs to be replaced! Many choose countertops based on looks and feel, so consider quartz when making your decision!

Planning a kitchen remodel and ready to choose your quartz countertops? Give us a call! Our knowledgeable team can give you guidance on which countertop to choose, price ranges, and finishes. Contact us at 252-902-5535 for more information or stop by our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC to check out our selection!