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    Category: Countertops

    A countertop is a horizontal work surface in kitchens or other food preparation areas, bathrooms or lavatories, and workrooms in general.

    Everything You Need to Know about Polished Quartz Countertops

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    When selecting the ideal kitchen or bathroom countertops, you will be faced with the decision of selecting between a polished or matte finish. Each of these finishes has distinct attributes that can alter the aesthetics of your space. Understanding the difference between these two types of quartz countertops finishes is important  to selecting the choice that best fits your style and taste.

    Quartz Countertops:

    Quartz countertops are celebrated for their resilience, simple upkeep, and visually appealing qualities. Quartz countertops are known for their strength, resistance to staining and scratching, and the wide variety of hues and designs that are available. They also give an elegant and luxurious aesthetic to any kitchen or bathroom.

    Making the right choice of finish is important as it affects the overall visual of the surface. The chosen finish dictates the degree of gloss or sheen on the countertop, playing a crucial part in its aesthetic appeal. The finish also affects the maintenance of the quartz countertop moving forward. Considering aspects such as preferred style, functionality, and personal preference can help you select the right finish for your quartz countertops.

    Polished Quartz Countertops

    Polished quartz countertops have a lustrous glow that is achieved through a grinding process that smooths the surface to a gleaming finish which adds to the quartz’s innate beauty. This finish turns any kitchen or bathroom into an elegant space. Polished quartz surfaces are exceedingly durable, able to resist scuffs and stains while tolerating extreme temperatures. The reflective nature of the polished quartz can add to the room’s dimensions and depth. No matter your style, traditional or contemporary, polished quartz countertops add a sophisticated and enduring elegance to your room.

    Advantages of Polished Finish

    The benefits of choosing a polished finish for quartz countertops start with the high-end, luxurious ambience the countertop adds to the overall aesthetic of your room. The smooth, glossy finish is  easy to clean as a quick wipe takes care of any dirt or spills, making them perfect for high-activity kitchens. The polished surface will also illuminate the space, giving it a roomier and inviting ambiance.

    Disadvantages of Polished Finish

    Despite its benefits, polished quartz countertops do bear a few considerations. For example, the glossy surface can highlight fingerprints, water spots, and smudges so it may require more regular cleaning to maintain the countertops pristine appearance. Scratches could also be more noticeable on a polished finish compared to other textures; however, appropriate care and upkeep can reduce these. You should also consider that the mirror-like surface created from polished quartz could create a pronounced glare or reflections under certain lighting scenarios, which may or may not appeal to someone’s taste and the overall decor of the room.

    Maintenance Tips for Polished Quartz Countertops

    A gentle daily cleansing of polished quartz countertops is imperative for retaining their look. It is advised to use a quartz-specific cleaner or a mild soap, coupled with a soft cloth or sponge for everyday cleaning. Stay away from abrasive cleansers or harsh scrubbers that could impair the glossy finish. Immediate wiping of spills, especially potentially staining substances like coffee, red wine, or acidic liquids, is also important. It is suggested to use protective gear like cutting boards or trivets to shield the surface from hot pans or sharp objects that may damage the polish.

    For help selecting your quartz kitchen or bathroom countertops, stop by our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC, or give us a call at 252-902-5535. We would love to help you select the perfect countertop in the perfect finish. C & C Stoneworks serves cities throughout eastern NC, including Morehead City, New Bern, Greenville, and Goldsboro.

    Selecting the Countertop Edge that is Right for Your Kitchen

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    When you are choosing new countertops, there are quite a few things you will need to consider. Which natural stone do you want? What design is best for your style? Are you looking to make a statement or looking for something more subtle? Do you want a polished finish or not? And, finally, what style edge do you want to finish your kitchen countertops?

    You might not think that countertop edging is a big decision to make, especially compared to the type of stone or color. However, the edges of your counter have an impact on the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Will you go with something modern, more traditional, or something totally unique?

    There are a lot of countertop edge options to choose from, and it can all seem a little overwhelming. We are going to give you the breakdown on countertop edges to help make your decision a little easier.

    Straight Edge:

    If you are looking for something clean and timeless, straight edges are the way to go. There is a reason this design is so popular! The corners of these countertops will be slightly rounded, protecting you from sharp corners and the stone from potential chipping.

    Quarter Round Edge:

    If you want something that is more elegant, but in an effortless way, then it may be worth considering a quarter round edge. Its rounded edge is enough to alter your kitchen’s overall aesthetic without completely overtaking it.

    Waterfall Edge:

    If you want your countertops to be the star of your kitchen, a waterfall edge is the perfect choice. This edge draws attention to your counters and the stone you have chosen. This curved design is stunning and will remind you of a waterfall.

    Beveled Edge:

    This popular countertop edge design is sleek, modern, and angled. It can give your kitchen a more modern feel while remaining constantly in-style throughout the years.

    There are plenty more countertop edge styles to choose from, but how do you know which style is right for you? There are a few things you will need to consider when making your decision:

    The style of your kitchen.

    Countertop edges can alter the aesthetic of your kitchen, so it is important to be mindful of what else is happening in your space. Consider the hardware, cabinets, lighting fixtures, tiling, flooring, and other aspects of your kitchen. Is it sleek and modern? Is it classic and timeless? You will start to notice your style preference when you start taking it all in. One of the countertop edges may jump out to you as the perfect fit for your home.

    What’s your lifestyle?

    Some countertop edges are sharp and pointy, and the perfect level for children to hit their heads on. While beveled and cave countertop edges can look amazing, if there are children or grandchildren in the home, it may be worth considering a rounded edge – just to be on the safe side.

    How much are you willing to spend?

    The more complex the edge, the higher the price. Something simpler, like a flat edge, will be less expensive than something more intricate like a waterfall edge. If you are looking to make a statement with your countertop edges and you do not have a limited budget, then maybe the waterfall style is the way to go.

    Let C&C Stoneworks help you with your kitchen and/or countertop transformation! With a variety of stone types, colors, and polishes to choose from, our team can help you transform your kitchen or bathroom with the highest quality natural stone countertops! Give us a call today at 252-902-5535 or visit our showroom at 6144 NC Hwy 43 S Greenville, NC.

    When is it Time to Replace Your Counters?

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    How do you know when it’s time to replace your kitchen countertops? Some of the telltale signs are easy to recognize where others may be harder.  However, when the time comes, you should consider the needs of you and your family, as well as being aware of the look and feel you want in your home.

    Below we’ve highlighted some of the reasons your kitchen could need updated kitchen countertops.

    1. You are considering selling your home and an upgraded kitchen will increase your home’s value.

    New countertops can elevate the look of a home and have a direct impact on a home’s value. Selling a home with new counters could allow you to ask for a higher price, but it could also ensure the home sells faster. Even a light kitchen upgrade could increase your home’s value, such as replacing the kitchen countertop but keeping the existing cabinets.

    2. You need to accommodate a change in your family or lifestyle.

    For many, a life change could require updates in your home. One example could be having children and you need more space for food preparation. Even a small renovation, such as updating or expanding kitchen countertops can provide a family with the additional room they need. Aside from a growing family, you may decide you are ready to do more entertaining in your home, and that could mean you will be spending more time in your kitchen cooking for family and friends.

    3. Your kitchen countertops are cracked, eroded, or stained.

    Countertops that have been properly cared for can last for decades. However, even kitchen countertops that are properly cared for will show signs of normal wear and tear. Some additional signs that your countertops are worn-out are discoloration, burns, and battered edges. Once your countertops are showing signs of their age, even when you are doing your best to maintain them, it may be time to replace your kitchen countertops.

    4. Your countertops have structural or smoke damage.

    Almost 50% of all house fires start in the kitchen due to faulty cooking appliances. If you’ve had a fire in your kitchen and your countertops are damaged, you should consider replacing your countertops. Even the smallest fire can cause smoke or structural damage to countertops. Fortunately, most homeowner’s insurance plans will cover the cost to replace your damaged kitchen countertops.

    5. Your countertops are outdated.

    Styles come and go, and even the best maintained countertops lose their luster and appeal. What was popular in the last decade becomes old, outdated and even tacky compared to the newest modern homes. If this is the case, it’s time to update your kitchen countertops. And when you’re getting ready to make the change, we suggest selecting a stone countertop that is more likely to stand against the test of time, stone such as granite and marble are classic and timeless options.

    If you’re going to renovate your kitchen, you should first start by deciding on a budget. It may be that you can just update your countertops to give your kitchen a new, modern look.

    If you are updating your kitchen before selling your home, we suggest sticking with a neutral color palette and timeless patterns and colors. Granite and marble are timeless options worth considering.

    If you’re ready to update your kitchen countertops, C & C Stoneworks would like to help you select and update your countertops. We’ll take your lifestyle, family needs, and personal preference into consideration and help you select the best options for you and your home. Come visit our showroom at 6144 NC Hwy 43 S Greenville, NC, or give us a call at 252-902-5535 for a consultation today!

    Polished vs. Leathered Granite Countertops

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    When considering which countertops you should pick for your dream kitchen, there is more that goes into it than just the stone, cut, and color – there is the finish. The finish you choose for your countertops can completely change the overall aesthetic of your space. We are here to answer your questions about the differences between polished and leathered granite finishes, so you will have all the facts before selecting which finish best fits your home and style.

    Characteristics of Polished Granite Countertops:

    A Unique Shine

    The polished finish is the finish that most people are familiar with when it comes to granite countertops. The stone is polished by course polishing pads. The process may be tedious, but the result is pure elegance. A polished finish makes the granite very glossy, almost mirror-like. A polished finish accentuates the natural stone’s unique textures and hues, and because this finish is reflective, it can make your kitchen appear brighter.

    Strong & Resistant

    One of advantages of polished granite is its resistance to stains. The natural pores in the granite are sealed during the finishing process. This makes the stone moisture resistant and more hygienic.

    Accentuates Flaws & Smudges

    Polished granite is popular with interior designers because it feels luxurious, modern, and classy. Between the unique shine and the ease of cleaning that polished granite offers, it is easy to see why. However, that being said, because the surface is so glossy, flaws in the stone, fingerprints, and even water spots tend to stand out more. The surface can also corrode under acidic cleaners.

    Characteristics of Leathered Granite Counterparts:

    It Does not Reflect Light

    Leathered granite means that the stone is matte. Stonemasons, the people who polish and finish stones, polish the granite until it looks matte – causing the stone to look natural and rustic. A much different aesthetic than polished granite.

    Warmer & Stain Resistant

    It sounds a little strange, but it is true. Leathered granite makes your home feel warmer. This type of counter is popular for rustic style homes and outdoor spaces. It is stain-resistant and hides fingerprints and water spots, unlike the polished finish. Although this finish may not appear luxurious, it can be a striking addition in a contemporary home.

    Accentuates Small Spaces

    Because leathered granite is non-reflective, smaller spaces can actually feel smaller. This is one of the downsides of using this finish in a small kitchen. The other downside is that cleaning could be a little more difficult than polished finishes due to reliefs in the stone.

    Either Way – It is Granite

    Each of these popular granite finishes has their pros and cons. A renovation for a forever home may warrant a different choice than a much-needed modern update for a quick flip.

    But in the end, granite is still a high-performance natural stone no matter what finish you choose. Pick the one that best suits you, but either way you will have similar durability, versatility, and it will be stunning.

    C & C Stoneworks provides natural stone countertops to cities throughout eastern NC, including Greenville, Goldsboro, New Bern, and Morehead City. To view our granite selection and browse other natural stone options, visit our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC.

    A Crash Course in Remnants

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    A remnant is what’s left of the quartz, marble or granite slab you picked for your countertops after the installation is complete. You might think that a remnant is unusable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth! Whether it’s a remnant from your new countertops or a piece you’ve decided to purchase, there are many great uses for remnant pieces. If you have a small project, searching for a remnant could be a very affordable option.

    Remnants may be smaller or have strange sizing, but the stone itself is as good as a full slab! If you’re looking to upgrade your home, remnants may be a good place to start looking. Here are six projects you can complete around your home with a quartz, granite, or marble remnants:

    • Upgrade your bathroom vanity. Quartz is very durable and less porous than other natural stones, so a quartz remnant would make a great choice for a small bathroom or half bath countertop.
    • Update your laundry room. Much like the bathroom vanity, your laundry room would be a great place to consider a quartz remnant as they are highly stain-resistant and can withstand chemicals in the laundry area.
    • Create a furniture top for a desk or coffee table. This is a perfect way to bring in some natural stone features to your living spaces at a reasonable price.
    • Create a cutting board, cheese board or coasters. Replace your boring wooden cutting board with a stylish remnant. Remnant marble and granite are perfect and more hygienic than wood. And these also make great gifts!
    • Use it for your kitchen backsplash. This would be a great way to update the look of your kitchen, while protecting the walls and making cleaning quick and easy.
    • Finally, don’t forget the fireplace! Granite and quartz remnants are great options for your fireplace. Not only do they retain heat, making your room feel warmer for longer, but they are also a great way to add value, and a focal point, to your home.

    There are many creative ways you can use remnants. Whether you are trying to figure out how to use the offcuts of a piece of natural stone you’ve already purchased, or searching for a stone remnant for a specific project the ideas are endless.

    C&C Stoneworks can help you with any project, large or small. We are expert granite, marble, and quartz suppliers and fabricators in eastern North Carolina including Greenville, Goldsboro, New Bern, and Morehead City. Let our team help you create your dream home. Visit our showroom or give us a call to schedule a consultation to start your remodeling project today.

    Honed Vs. Polished Marble Countertops

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    Not all countertops are made equal. Something as simple as a finish can make a huge difference in the appearance of the stone, as well as the space. We are here to answer any questions you have about what finish to choose when selecting marble!

    Characteristics of Marble Honed Countertops

    Does not reflect any light

    Honed countertops appear matte and velvet-like. There is no shine on honed countertops and appears more natural than polished marble. Due to the matte finish, honed countertops are less slippery when wet.

    Contrasting

    When next to other kitchen appliances that appear sleek and shiny, honed countertops are very contrasting due to color and finish. Honed marble comes in many different colors, but the colors are typically more muted and understated than polished marble. Due to this finish, honed countertops are typically used in places that have warmer tones and is a nice background for decorations.

    Shows Scratches

    Though honed marble is matte, it can be scratched—and it shows. Along with watermarks, these countertops can be affected by every day wear and tear.

    Characteristics of Marble Polished Countertops

    Smooth and glossy

    In comparison, polished countertops are extremely smooth, and cast a reflection. Because of the glossy finish, this type of marble makes rooms look brighter, as the light is mirrored. This finish also causes the countertops to be more slippery.

    Nonporous

    Because polished countertops are sanded down to get the gloss finish, they are less porous and resist stains better. This characteristic makes it a perfect choice for kitchen and bathroom spaces. Despite this, polished counters can still be scratched fairly easily.

    Color

    Like honed marble, polished marble can be found in many different shades and colors but appears brighter than most. This type of marble blends well with contemporary styled homes and contrast colors, such as white and black.

    Either Way—It’s Marble

    Both polished and honed countertops are originally marble, meaning they have similar durability. Whichever marble you choose, they both require a sealant to ensure toughness.

    C & C Stoneworks offers services in many cities throughout eastern NC, including Morehead City, New Bern, and Goldsboro. Visit our showroom to browse our selection of stone at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC, or call us at 252-902-5535 for more information!

    Renovating Your Bathroom with Natural Stone Countertops

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    We bet you didn’t know that bathrooms are the second most remodeled room in the home. But you can see why – because there is nothing worse than an outdated bathroom that is also no longer functional.

    The remodeling process can be very exciting, but it can also be a very stressful time. There are so many design choices that will need to be made during your bathroom remodel, and you want to make the right choices because remodeling a bathroom is very expensive. We think one of the most important choices you will make is what type of bathroom countertop you will want to use.

    Your countertop choice will impact the look and feel of your new bathroom. There are a lot of stone countertop options available, so you should know your budget and take your time narrowing them down, so you get what you want.

    Marble Countertops Add Elegance.

    Marble countertops can bring a feeling of luxury to your bathroom. With marble you will have an abundance of patterns and colors to choose from. From subtle understated choices to dramatic veining options or even bold color choices, you will have many options to select from.

    However, you need to be careful choosing marble for the bathroom, it may not be the most practical countertop choice for a bathroom renovation for the following reasons:

    • Marble is vulnerable to staining. Hair products like hair dye can stain your marble countertop and the stains could be impossible to get out.
    • Discoloration and changes in the finish are also possible with marble, so you need to be prepared for imperfections to develop over time.
    • You also need to consider the upkeep with marble countertops, so be prepared to reseal them regularly.
    • Harsh cleaning products need to be avoided.

    If you like marble and some of these are not a huge concern for you, then no worries, go with marble for your remodel. However, if you want your countertop to look like new years from now, then you may want to consider granite or quartz instead.

    Granite is Worth Considering.

    Granite was popular for years, then it became less trendy, but its popularity is on the rise again, so we say consider granite countertops for your bathroom renovation ideas.

    Granite is less expensive than marble, and you will still be using natural stone. It also comes in a wide array of patterns and colors.

    Granite is also more durable and resistant to watermarks and stains. This is because it is less porous than marble which makes it a practical choice for your bathroom remodel.

    Quartz is Very Affordable.

    If you love marble but you don’t have the budget for marble in your bathroom, a more affordable option for you to consider are quartz countertops. Quartz gives you the look of natural stone but is less expensive.

    Quartz offers the beautiful colors, patterns, and veining you get with natural stone, but the design is more consistent because each slab is the same. So, if you order a slab, you can be sure that what you are getting is the same as the sample or photograph you are seeing. Also, because quartz comes in a wide variety of designs, you can get faux marble or even terrazzo-style designs.

    And, unlike natural stone, quartz does not need to be sealed, it is very durable and is resistant to staining and watermarks.

    Newcomer, Slab Porcelain Makes a Statement.

    Slab Porcelain is virtually maintenance-free and is one of the most versatile products available. Slab porcelain has low porosity and incredible durability, a perfect combination for bathrooms.

    Slab porcelain comes in several styles, it offers stunning visuals and seamless design with no boundaries. Once installed, porcelain slab countertops are resistant to chips, heat, stains, and scratches.

    Slab porcelain comes in a variety of patterns. Pick one that creates drama with striking vein patterns or infuse tranquility with subtle marbling designs. You can add an urban chic feel with slabs that closely mimic poured concrete.

    Regular, basic cleaning with warm water and mild soap keeps porcelain looking gorgeous. You can also use a gentle, everyday multipurpose cleaner to remove soap scum, water deposits, and mildew. You should avoid products that contain acids or ammonia as they could damage the glossy surfaces of the tile. And you should dry your porcelain thoroughly and avoid leaving puddles.

    Need Help Selecting Your Bathroom Countertop?

    Deciding what type of countertop you want for your bathroom renovation is both exciting and scary. At C & C Stoneworks we know how difficult the choices can be, which is why we’re available to help.

    One of the best ways to help you decide what countertop material is right for you, is to look at samples and compare all your options. We have a designer available to help you and a showroom filled with samples.

    Give us a call to schedule a consultation or visit our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S in Greenville, North Carolina today. We’re ready to help with your bathroom remodel.

    Reasons Granite is Perfect for Your Outdoor Kitchen

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    One of the benefits of North Carolina’s weather is that you can use your outdoor kitchen just about all year long. If you are lucky enough to have the space and budget for an outdoor kitchen, then you know what a great investment one can be for your property.

    An outdoor kitchen is the perfect place to gather for a family cookout, or for a Labor Day party with friends. Whether you install a simple kitchen, an extravagant island, or extensive multi-functional kitchen, you need to make sure you implement durable yet beautiful materials in your design. And just because this kitchen is outdoors does not mean the countertops should be overlooked.

    When it comes to your outdoor kitchen, there are a few stone options that would work, however granite is considered the most ideal. Here are the reasons why you should pick granite countertops for your outdoor kitchen.

    Granite is Durable.

    Granite can withstand the extreme elements of nature, from rain, snow and sleet to heat. In addition to being durable, granite is also heat resistant, which means the exposure to a hot NC summer day will not be an issue. In fact, when the sun shines on your granite countertops, the depth and beauty of the granite is revealed.

    Granite is also well suited for an outdoor kitchen because you can build your countertop around pizza ovens and stoves. And, when properly and regularly sealed, granite repels rainwater, another plus for an outdoor kitchen!

    Granite also has non-scratch qualities. This is important because your outdoor countertops will surely receive their fair share of wear and tear. So, selecting something that can withstand heavy use without getting scratched or damaged is very important.

    Easily Maintained.

    Granite is very easy to clean and maintain. This means that you won’t have to do much more than wiping it down with a little soap and water to keep it looking great. Granite is not a host for harmful bacteria. It is considered a sanitary material which is a plus when you are prepping food on it. Just be sure to use a non-absorbent detergent to remove spills or dirt. And, as far as regular upkeep is concerned, you only need to seal it once a year and it will be protected from spills and the weather.

    Versatile and Beautiful.

    Granite comes in a wide variety of patterns and styles, so it’s simple to select something that will suit your overall style. Granite is a unique material that offers different specks and patterns that can be different in every slab. This means your slab will not look like your neighbors!

    Although we recommend the darker patterns, the possibilities are endless when it comes to the individual style and design of your granite. Plus, granite can be formed into any size or shape. So granite can work with your outdoor kitchen layout.

    Eco-friendly and Added Value.

    Since granite is a natural stone, it is 100% eco-friendly. So, for anyone who wants to do their part, granite is the perfect countertop material for outdoor use. Finally, an outdoor kitchen makes a beautiful addition to your home, and by using granite for your outside kitchen countertops, you will enjoy a beautiful, long-lasting, elegant material that will add value to your home.

    When you are ready to add an outdoor kitchen, contact the experts at C & C Stoneworks. We know granite countertops and can help you find the perfect slab for your outdoor kitchen. We can also make recommendations based on your kitchen structure, climate, shade availability, and the aesthetic you want to achieve with your outdoor kitchen. Get ready to have your dream outdoor kitchen, call C & C Stoneworks today at (252) 902-5535.

    A Crash Course on Dolomite

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    If you are considering a kitchen or bathroom renovation, and you are considering replacing your kitchen or bathroom countertops, you may want to consider Dolomite. Though it is lesser known than stones like marble, granite or quartz, Dolomite is the perfect choice if you want to get the marble look without the marble price tag.

    What is Dolomite?

    Dolomite is formed when limestone and lime mud come into contact with magnesium-rich groundwater, which forms the sedimentary rock we call dolomite or dolostone. If you didn’t know any better, you might think dolomite is marble or quartzite. Dolomite is not as soft and fragile as marble but is not as hard and resistant as quartzite.

    Characteristics of Dolomite:

    Hardness: as we said above, dolomite is not as soft as marble or as hard as granite. This means that it’s harder to scratch than marble but easier to scratch than granite or quartz. With dolomite counters, a cutting board is a must.

    Durability: believe it or not, if properly taken care of, dolomite can last for decades. This is much longer than marble. And though it is easier to chip or crack your dolomite counters than your granite counters, it’s still highly unlikely. Dolomite is very resistant to wear and tear.

    Stain Resistance: dolomite is less absorbent and sensitive than marble, but it still requires annual sealing. If exposed to acids, dolomite will etch.

    Heat Resistance: if you are looking for heat-resistant countertops, dolomite is the choice for you. Dolomite counters hold heat better than quartz, meaning you can set your hot pots and pans directly on them with no problems.

    Appearance: one of the main reasons dolomite counters are so popular is the way they look like marble. Dolomite appears sophisticated and makes for a beautiful backsplash or countertops.

    Marble is more impressive in looks but is more fragile. Quarts is less maintenance and has great durability but cannot hold any heat. Dolomite looks beautiful, is more affordable, but still needs maintenance. If you think that Dolomite counters are the right choice for you and your home or have additional questions, call C&C Stoneworks at 252-902-5535 today. We can help you pick the perfect counters for your home. Give us a call to schedule a consultation or visit our showroom at 6614 NC Hwy 43S in Greenville, North Carolina.

    Make a Statement with Large Format Porcelain

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    Large format porcelain panels have been around for a while, but they are just now gaining traction as a trend in kitchen and bath design. If you’re looking for a seamless, grout-less solution for kitchen and bathroom remodels, look no further than porcelain slabs. At C & C Stoneworks, we definitely see this as a growing trend among our clients.

    Plus, with the advances in modern technology and manufacturing, slab porcelain is now available for bathroom and kitchen countertops, shower walls and floor and even fireplace surrounds. And, with patterns are more realistic than ever, and the end result can be absolutely breathtaking.

    In this post, we’re going to look at the pros and cons of porcelain slabs.

    What Is Porcelain Made of?

    Porcelain is made from natural clay and has been around for thousands of years. The clay used to create porcelain has a high percentage of a mineral known as kaolinite included in it. Along with kaolinite, porcelain contains also includes silica, feldspar and other mineral oxides giving it its durability and strength.

    The clay is put into a kiln and fired, with an end result that creates an extremely dense material nearly impermeable to heat, stains, chips and scratches. Pigmented glazes can be added during manufacturing to create different patterns and colors on the slab.

    Here are the Pros of Porcelain Slabs.

    If you’ve renovated your home anytime in the last couple years, you’ve probably replaced some of your surfaces with granite or engineered stone like quartz. Today, you can include large format porcelain as an option for creating a look of natural stone.

    Porcelain slabs have a depth of pattern almost identical to natural marble or granite, and best of all it comes with none of the maintenance issues or use restrictions associated with most natural stone. It is also a very durable material that is much lighter and less costly than natural stone slabs and tile.

    Large-format porcelain slabs are a stunning surface that:

    • Require zero maintenance.
    • Is a durably hard material.
    • Can be installed with minimal grout so seams are almost imperceivable.
    • Porcelain slabs are designed for fast installations, produce less waste, and are less expensive than their natural stone counterparts.
    • Porcelain is non-porous meaning it is scratch, stain and heat resistant.

    Porcelain slabs can work in most instances. From countertops to backsplashes, shower surrounds to bathroom floors, and fireplace surround to anywhere you want a seamless look. Porcelain slabs are an excellent option to natural stone and come in a wide array of natural patterns. If you’re looking to stay on the cutting edge with your remodeling project, then large format porcelain is a great choice for you.

    Here are the Cons.

    Every material has drawbacks, and porcelain is no exception! Some of the cons to porcelain include:

    • Large format porcelain is difficult to fabricate.

    Porcelain’s pattern does not have designs entirely through the materials, as they are basically printed on the top or glazed onto the material. So, because of this, slabs can be more brittle than something like quartz and can chip.

    • Ceramic knives can scratch the surface of porcelain.

    I know we said that porcelain slabs are virtually scratch proof, but ceramic knives are its kryptonite! They are the one thing that can scratch porcelain, so we recommend not using ceramic knives on porcelain countertops without a cutting board on top!

    Because the color is not throughout the entire material, if it becomes chipped or scratched, it is very difficult to touch up or repair.

    Here’s the Bottom Line on Porcelain Slabs

    When it comes right down to it, picking something depends on your style, needs, and budget. If you want to be cutting edge of design trends or you’re looking for a unique material that will make an absolutely stunning impact, large format porcelain slabs are an excellent option.

    It can fit into just about any design, from a feature shower wall or fireplace surround to creating a seamless bath shower floor. It is extremely hard and not predisposed to staining or scratching like other natural stone options. Unlike marble, each porcelain slab is uniform, so you won’t need to spend too much time finding the “perfect” slab. In fact, with large format porcelain slabs, you can continue a vein across a complete wall for an extremely high-end look.

    The bottom – porcelain is durable, versatile, affordable, and incredibly beautiful! If you’re interested in learning more about porcelain give us a call or make an appointment for a consultation today. You can also view some samples of our work here.