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Can I Use Quartz for Bathroom Countertops?

Quartz countertops are durable and beautiful. We get asked a lot, “Can I use quartz in my bathroom?”. The answer is – YES! Quartz is highly recommended for both kitchen and bathroom countertops. Being an engineered stone, quartz combines both the uniqueness of natural stone countertops with a lot of added benefits of modern technology!

The technology we are talking about here includes, resin binders and additional colors not seen in natural stone that give quartz an upper hand. In a way, quartz gives us the best of both worlds, natural and engineered stone countertops.

If you choose to use quartz in your bathroom, you need to think about your style preferences, budget and the quantity of material you will need for your bathroom remodel. Depending on the bathroom countertop results you are looking for, our fabricators will take you through various levels and brands of quartz to choose from. As expected, high quality quartz will be different from results delivered by standard quality quartz. We will work with you to choose the best your budget can buy!

Here are a few reason quartz is a great option for you bathroom countertops.

Durability
Since they are man-made, quartz countertops are engineered to be durable – even more durable than natural stone and other surfacing options. They are also heat-resistant, making them great for people who like to sit styling tools on their bathroom countertops. We still recommend a silicon mat under curling irons and straighteners though!

Stain Resistance
Quartz countertops are stain resistant. They are a nonporous material, meaning that they are solid all the way though.

If you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom with beautiful quartz countertops, give C and C Stoneworks a call today!

Trending Granite Countertop Colors in 2020

We’re always keeping up with the latest design trends here at C and C Stoneworks. If you’re ready to update your home’s countertops with a stylish and durable surface, look no further. Our countertop experts can point you in the right direction to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and taste. Granite has been a favorite since the beginning, and in 2020 that is still the case. Not only is it beautiful, it’s durable and increases the value of your home! Here are 2020 granite countertop colors that are trending this year.

 

Alaska White Granite
The perfect balance of light and dark, Alaska White Granite is great for all indoor projects, in any room. Create a stunning look when paired with dark wood cabinets and lighter décor. Kitchens featuring this stone accomplish a classic look that is sure to always be trending!

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Absolute Black Premium Granite
This slab is a beauty! Predominantly black with speckles of golds, silvers, greens and grays, this stone makes a statement in any room. If your style is a little more modern, this may be the perfect option for you. White walls and cabinets will provide a perfect contrast to create a sleek, clean look.

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Himalaya White Granite
Whites are definitely trending this year. If you’re looking to pull off the all-white look, this granite option is calling your name. Himalaya White Granite features a beautiful marbling effect that will give you the elegant look you are going for. If an all-white kitchen isn’t quite your style, this countertop will look amazing with blue accent cabinets in your island. This will bring out the beautiful blue undertones and add a pop of color!

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Azul Bahia Granite
If you want something completely unique, you’re in luck! Bold colors and patterns are also trending in 2020. If you’re a fan of blues and unique granite characteristics, take a look at the Azul Bahia Granite. This stone will be the focal point in any room you use it in and definitely make your home unique – in the best way possible.

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Tips to Help Keep Your Kitchen Renovation on Track

Kitchen remodels can seem overwhelming, and keeping your project on track is no simple task. Of course, you’ll want to stick to your timeline and know when you’ll be able to cook and entertain in your kitchen again. At C and C Stoneworks, we understand your concern when it comes to the timeline for your renovation. That is why it is our goal to educate our customers on what can be expected. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while planning your kitchen remodel, that can help keep you on track.

  1. Set Your Budget
    Whether you’re renovating your home for resale value or just simply for a beautiful upgrade to enjoy with your family, before you begin you will need to educate yourself on the costs. One thing that can hold up a renovation is not budgeting properly to get everything done in a timely manner. The team at C and C Stoneworks can make you aware of all the costs that are associated with your remodel. Trust us, we know all there is to know about countertops and have seen many kitchen remodels. We can help you account for any unexpected costs that can arise.During this planning phase, we suggest breaking down your budget in detail, that way you’ll be less likely to exceed it during construction.

  2. Choose the Right Professionals for the Job
    One of the best things you can do to stick to your renovation timeline is choosing the right, experienced professionals for the job. C and C Stoneworks is committed to making your kitchen dreams come true. We will walk you through the entire process and keep you updated every step of the way.

  3. Consider the Other Things You Want
    Once you have your plan in place and selected all of your materials, our team will give you a timeline of when your new kitchen countertops will be fabricated and installed. During this time you can work on selecting the other items you want to include in your new kitchen, like decor and new furniture. Once you know when your countertops will be installed, you can make sure that your new items are in by that time. Then, you’ll be able to enjoy your completed kitchen as soon as possible.

  4. Stick to the Plan
    Once you’ve made your design, budget, and construction plans, stick to them. It can be easy to be swept up in the frenzy of all the options, but this can lead to wasteful spending and a delayed finish date.

While a kitchen remodel can be overwhelming, it is much less stressful with a team of professionals to guide you. Contact C and C Stoneworks today to get started on the kitchen of your dreams.

What Can Cause Granite Countertops to Crack?

​As we’ve mentioned in many previous blogs, granite countertops are tough. Very tough. So, the last thing anyone expects is a crack developing on the surface of their kitchen or bathroom countertops. However, it is possible for granite to crack from improper care, wear and tear, and sometimes it may even be a natural part of the stone. Here are a few things that can bring about a crack in your granite countertops.

Natural Fissures
Like we said, sometimes cracks in granite can be natural. This particular type of stone is known to have natural fissures that could possibly develop into a crack. However, when working with C and C Stoneworks, we will identify any natural fissures and make sure that they are not in sensitive areas such as seams, cut outs and cooktop. This will greatly reduce the chance of cracks developing. Keep in mind, natural fissures actually give your countertops beautiful character and are nothing to worry about if the countertop is installed correctly! Check out our blog “Crack in Countertop? Or, Could it be a Fissure?” to learn more!

Hard Hit
While granite is durable, a hard hit with a heavy object can cause a crack.Weight
Just like a hard hit, placing a lot of weight on the countertop could also lead to a crack. Be mindful of any excessive weight you place on your stone surface. If your kitchen countertop design features a bar or island with an overhang, we add braces and corbels to give an extra layer of protection against cracks.

Improper Shimming
It is extremely important for your countertops to be installed on a level surface. Unfortunately, many homes, floors, walls and cabinets aren’t always level. If countertops are placed unlevel this can lead to numerous problems, including cracking. At C and C Stoneworks we shim areas to ensure that you have a perfect base for your countertop installation. If you currently have granite countertops, take a peak underneath them. If you notice any areas that are not touching your cabinets, you are at risk for cracks and should contact us!

Hot Pots
While granite is formed through heat and is therefore naturally heat resistant, constant exposure to heat over an extended period can cause damage.

At C and C Stoneworks our goal is to install beautiful countertops and give our customers tips and tricks to help keep them beautiful for years and years. If your countertops currently have cracks, give us a call! Depending on the size of the crack, we can repair it!

Cleaning Tips for a Germ-Free Kitchen

With everything going on in the world right now, sanitation and cleaning are at the top of everyone’s mind. Not to mention, it’s also spring, which means a lot of folks are getting into the spring-cleaning mood! So, here are a few kitchen cleaning tips that will help keep your family healthy, your home germ-free, and bring that sparkle and shine back to your kitchen!

1. Cleanse and Clear Your Countertops
Start by decluttering your kitchen countertops. Put away any small appliances, kitchen utensils and décor. You can put those back later, but you will get a much more effective clean if these items aren’t in the way when you wipe down your countertops. After removing everything, give your countertops and backsplash a deep clean using a soft microfiber cloth, mild liquid soap and warm water. If soap scum is an issue in your kitchen, be sure to use a non-acidic soap scum remover. For more difficult stains, use a non-abrasive soft bristled brush and scrub lightly. Be sure to towel dry in order to prevent spotting and prevent the countertop from absorbing any of the leftover liquids.
Tip! If you’re looking for a way to make sure that your stone countertops always look beautiful and are well maintained, check out our stone sealer available for purchase on our website! This sealer can be used on any stone surface. It penetrates deep in the stone to provide a great seal and food-safe barrier from spills and spotting!

2. Make Your Appliances Shine
After you’ve cleaned your countertops, you don’t want to ruin all of your hard work by placing dirty appliance back on them. Give small appliances a good wipe down to remove any leftover food or dust that has accumulated over time. Make sure to clean your larger appliances too, like the stove, oven and refrigerator. If you have enough time, consider scrubbing your burners and cleaning out refrigerator drawers.

3. Floors and Final Touches
​Finally, make sure to vacuum and mop your kitchen floors to complete your kitchen cleaning! Also, here are few more small areas in your kitchen you may want to clean too.

  • Wipe down bar stools, tables and chairs.
  • Dust light fixtures.
  • Wipe down cabinets, doors and switch plates.
  • Clean trash cans and recycling bins.

If you have any questions about the best way to clean your stone kitchen countertops, contact us at C and C Stoneworks! Or, if deep cleaning your kitchen has made you wish for an update, we can make your dreams come true! Give us a call today.

Can Small Kitchens Have Dark Countertops?

In the past, you may have heard design experts say that you should avoid dark colors in small spaces. But this isn’t the case anymore! The field of design is expanding, and more and more people are willing to challenge the “rules” to create more memorable and unique spaces. So, is it okay to use a dark countertop stone in a small kitchen?

In the past, you may have heard design experts say that you should avoid dark colors in small spaces. But this isn’t the case anymore! The field of design is expanding, and more and more people are willing to challenge the “rules” to create more memorable and unique spaces. So, is it okay to use a dark countertop stone in a small kitchen?
We think the advice, “avoid dark colors in small rooms” is a thing of the past. Dark colors can be beautiful, even in small spaces. If you love the stunning look of dark countertops, but have a small kitchen, you don’t have to settle! You can have the dark countertops you love and still create the illusion of a bigger kitchen. Here are a few tips for how to include dark countertops in your small kitchen.Pair with Light Cabinetry
In general, having both dark cabinets and countertops will make your kitchen look small. But, selecting lighter cabinetry instead can add breathtaking contrast while still helping your space to appear larger! Here’s another idea – to make your kitchen feel even more spacious, consider cabinetry with glass doors.

Choose Lighter Color Walls
Lighter color walls reflect light and gives the illusion of additional space. Although dark walls can work in a small space, we suggest avoiding them if you have already chosen a dark countertop material!

Think About the Details
Even the seemingly small details of your kitchen design can make the room feel much more spacious. For example, did you know the pattern on a floor can actually make your kitchen look larger? The same goes for your backsplash design. A linear backsplash running horizontally up the wall is a great choice for small spaces. Also, keeping clutter off of your countertops will make the space feel bigger too!

So, we’re all for dark countertops! Available in a wide variety of materials, including granite, marble and quartz, dark countertops are simply beautiful. Don’t be afraid to break the design “rules.” Let C and C Stoneworks help you create your perfect kitchen – even if it may be small! Our design experts can help you with everything from countertops, backsplashes, flooring and cabinetry. Give us a call today.

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3 Ways You’re Accidentally Ruining Your Countertops

Kitchen countertops are the most important work surfaces in your home. They are custom-made and fabricated to withstand regular cleaning, food prep, daily use, and so much more! But, despite the durability of even the toughest, top-quality stones damages can still happen over time if you are not careful. Many homeowners are unaware of a few things, that they often do every day, that can potentially affect their countertops in the long run.

1. Hot Pots and Pans
Yes, we said it! Hot pots and pans can damage your countertops. It is true that certain countertop stones like granite and quarts can withstand high temperatures. But we strongly advise homeowners to use placemats, hot pads, or trivets. Remember, that the better care you take of your countertops, the longer they will last. In some situations, placing hot pans directly on the stone without protection can result in discoloration, burn marks or cracking.

2. Cutting and Chopping
​Even if you have invested in one of the most durable and long-lasting countertop surfaces, like granite, that doesn’t mean you should abuse them more than other surfaces. We see people slicing, cutting, dicing and chopping directly on their countertops. Although this is okay most of the time, why increase the chances of damaging your counter AND your knives? We recommend using cutting boards.

3. Water Build Up
If your countertops are sealed, water build up shouldn’t be an issue. Right? Wrong! Sealing countertops only prevents liquids from seeping through and staining the stone. But, when you leave spills on your countertops for too long, you increase the chance of damage. Pools of liquid can cause white crusty build up when left on the stone. We recommend always wiping up any spills and drying your countertops off after cleaning.Take care of your countertop investment! Remember that although granite and quartz countertops are durable, they aren’t indestructible. Be mindful of how you care for your countertops, and they will remain beautiful for many, many years to come. If you have more questions about how to care for your countertops, contact C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC today! Also, check out our blog “How to Keep Your Countertops Looking New” for more tips and tricks!

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Is it Time to Replace Your Countertops?

No matter what countertop surface you currently have in your home, there may come a time when you need to replace them. Recognizing these three signs can help you determine if your countertops are ready for a replacement.

1. Erosion
Countertop erosion is common with low-end countertop materials. However, some high-end surfaces can also wear out if you’ve had them for a very long time, or if they haven’t been taken care of. If your countertops have eroded to the point of being able to see the materials beneath them, you are in need of a replacement. Although, we recommend you don’t let them get to this level.You can’t repair eroded materials, so replacement is the only option. Opt for an upgrade in material installed by a trusted professional. This will ensure that you have beautiful countertops for many years to come!

2. Cracks
Cracks are common in certain countertop materials, like wood. Cracks are caused by constant pressure, or sharp and abrasive objects coming into contact with the countertop. Not only do cracks make your countertops unappealing, they can also trap bacteria!It is possible to repair cracks. You should have a trained professional take a look at them to determine if this is a possibility. If your countertops are full of large cracks, your best option will be to replace them!

3. Outdated
Nothing can make a kitchen or bathroom look drab more than outdated countertops. Let’s be honest, your kitchen is the heart of your home. So, why not show it a little love. If your countertops are stuck in the past, it’s time to replace them! You can choose something timeless, like a neutral granite stone with beautiful veining. This will keep your countertops in style for as long as you keep them! Or maybe your style has changed, this is a great reason to replace your countertops too!

Not to mention, if you are planning on selling your home in the future, countertops are a HUGE selling point to potential buyers! Make sure you get the most value out of your home by replacing your countertops!

So, have you decided it’s time to replace your kitchen or bathroom countertops? Contact C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC! You can visit our stone yard full of all different materials and colors. Find the countertop that is perfect for you and your home! Then our experienced fabricator and installers will work to give you the countertops of your dreams.

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Crack in Countertop? Or, Could it be a Fissure?

Knowing what to look for can help you determine if you have a crack or a fissure. Cracks usually only appear in one location of the stone’s surface and will have noticeable unevenness that you can feel. Whereas fissures often appear in more than one place on the slab and are rarely straight. Your fingernail can also run smoothly over a fissure. Remember, fissures will not impair or effect the integrity of the stone. Fissures do not change the plan of the surface. For example, if you were to place a level over a fissure you shouldn’t be able to slide a business card underneath it.

Fissures are a beautiful reminder of the natural journey your stone slab took to get to your countertop. But, if you aren’t a fan of the way they look, make sure that you inspect your entire slab for any characteristic that you don’t like (or want on your countertop). Our stone yard is the perfect place to do this! All in one location, you can see many different stones, colors and patterns, and see your FULL slab before you purchase. Other retails may only show you small samples of the stone and you won’t be able to see all the characteristics that may lie on the surface.

If you’re looking for the perfect stone slab, contact C and C Stoneworks today! We’re there for the entire process – from stone selection and design to custom fabrication and installation!

Kitchen Remodeling on Budget

Is your kitchen in desperate need of an update? You know it’s time for a remodel, but perhaps the sticker shock of how much a remodel can cost has you a little hesitant. We see this a lot; folks have decided to tackle a remodel and are looking for an area they can cut costs. Often times this is with the countertops. After all, laminate is fine. Right?

Well, the problem is that for the money you may be saving by opting for low end countertops, you are actually just borrowing from yourself long term. Not only do laminate countertops not last like stone countertops, they are much more prone to scratching staining and cutting damage. In the long term, granite, quartz or marble will be much better for your budget because they last a long time and you won’t have to spend money again installing new countertops years later.

Not only are stone countertops stronger, more durable and more appealing, they are also a lot more forgiving of kitchen accidents than laminate. Not to mention, if you ever plan on selling your home, stone countertops are a huge selling point for potential buyers!

To save money on your kitchen remodel the RIGHT way we suggest –

Keeping The Same Layout
Moving the sink, electrical outlets and switches to other locations will certainty drive up your costs. Consider keeping your same kitchen layout. The C and C Stoneworks team will custom fabricate your countertops, so no need to worry about fitting them perfectly in your existing space!

Repaint, Don’t Replace Cabinets
Instead of gutting your kitchen cabinetry, just give it a facelift with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware. If your cabinets are in good condition, a simple resurfacing will bring new life to your kitchen, without breaking the bank.

Consider Open Shelving
If part of your kitchen remodel needs to include adding more storage, consider open shelving! It creates interest in your space and saves money. Not to mention, it is very trendy and a great way to display your favorite dishes!

​Are you ready to tackle your kitchen remodel? Contact C and C Stoneworks today! We’ll help you pick out the perfect countertop for your space that will look beautiful, increase your home’s value and stand the test of time!

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