(252) 902-5535
  • PAY DEPOSIT OR INVOICE

    • MERCHANDISE

    Category: Granite

    The Finish You Choose for Your Granite Countertops Matters

    Posted on

    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.

    Polished vs. Leathered Granite Countertops

    Posted on

    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.

    Reasons Granite is Perfect for Your Outdoor Kitchen

    Posted on

    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.

    Why You Should Include Stone In Your 2022 Bathroom Renovation

    Posted on

    Many bathroom design trends come and go but few remain timeless quite like natural stone. Natural stone is a sturdy and eco-friendly option that can be used in a variety of areas in your bathroom. Due to its beauty and versatility, using natural stone has become a staple in bathroom remodels. Here are our top reasons why you should consider including natural stone in your renovation plans.

    Functionality

    As trends progress, low maintenance bathrooms have become increasingly popular. Natural stones such as granite and manufactured stone such as quartz both provide low to no maintenance upkeep for bathroom surfaces. Quartz is manufactured with a mix of ground stone and resin, so its surface does not require regular sealing like granite or marble. Granite does require sealing every few months, but it is durable making it difficult to scratch or chip. Granite also has a high heat resistance protecting it from curling irons and flat irons that are used and placed on bathroom countertops.

    Appearance

    No two pieces of stone look the same, this is another reason that natural stone is a stunning and unique choice for your bathroom remodel. Marble has colored “veins” running through the stone creating a unique pattern in each cut. Granite comes in wide range of colors due to the variety of minerals within each slab. Light colored granites such as white or yellow create a welcoming and bright environment. Deep gray or brown granites add a sense of elegance to any bathroom. Quartz also offers a wide color palette. Depending on its ground stone contents and resin shades quartz can range anywhere from white to brown or even black!

    The wide variety of color and pattern options make natural stone the perfect fit for any bathroom décor or aesthetic. The appearance of stone communicates quality and elegance in any room of the home. C & C Stoneworks can heighten that style and elegance with a variety of edge and corner options making your cuts of stone just as unique as your home.

    Timelessness

    As trends adapt and change, natural stone has never gone out of style. Its beautiful colors and patterns communicate elegance which is easily adapted to any home décor. Adding natural stone to your bathroom renovation can increase the value of your property due to its timelessness and beauty. When properly cared for, natural stone surfaces can last a lifetime making them a long-term investment into the value of your home.

    Include C & C Stoneworks in Your Next Renovation

    When remodeling it is important to choose specialists that are knowledgeable in natural stone, their uses, finishes and installation. The artisans at C & C Stoneworks can answer all your stone and tile related questions and help turn your renovation vision into a reality.

     

    Your Countertops‍ Should Make Your Kitchen Shine

    Posted on

    Countertops are an essential design element in any kitchen. Depending on what countertop material you select, your countertops could take a back seat to your cabinets, or they could be the focal point of your kitchen, adding character and visual appeal. When you choose natural stone, such as granite, marble and quartzite, or man-made quartz, you’ll infuse your kitchen with the beauty of stone. However, you can also introduce drama depending on what pattern, texture and veining you selected for your countertops.

    Marble is a truly timeless stone filled with delicate texture

    Many types of marble feature dramatic veining that can really stand out in any kitchen setting. When the veining of marble is paired with a white backdrop it creates a cool, calming effect in your kitchen. Or, if you choose a variety of marble with browns and golds, it will provide a warmer ambiance that some homeowners may prefer.

    Granite offers classic beauty and versatility

    When you are looking for veining, pattern and texture that truly elevates any kitchen design, you can’t go wrong with granite. Granite offers a wide range of color combinations and palettes, contrasting elements and visual depth. Whether you prefer the warmer tones or the dark markings, you can make a bold statement when choosing granite countertops for your kitchen.

    Quartzite has very unique and intriguing patterns

    Quartzite may not get the same level of praise as marble and granite, but you can definitely find eye-catching and unique varieties that rival them if you are looking at quartzite countertops. Quartzite will add dazzle to your kitchen due in part to the particles of quartz that are embedded in the stone. These sparkle in both natural and artificial lighting conditions, making a powerful statement in your kitchen.

    Quartz is an elegant, engineered stone

    One of the biggest pluses of quartz for kitchen countertops is the depth and dimensionality it can deliver. Quartz is man-made and is made up of crushed quartz, resin and polymers. Pigments can also be added to enhance the natural colors found in quartz. Quartz comes in a wide variety of colors meaning it can complement a wide range of kitchens.

     

    Your Countertops‍ Should Make Your Kitchen Shine

    Not every countertop will have veining, pattern and texture, but you only need just one of these elements to have the kitchen you long for. With so many counter top options available, picking the right stone for your style can be overwhelming.

    If you need help selecting the right countertop and material for your kitchen and personal style, call C&C Stoneworks today. We can help you pick a countertop that offers the character you want while making a unique statement that showcases your own personal style. We are here to help!

    Upgrading Your Vacation Rental Kitchen

    Posted on

    Are you considering updating the kitchen in your rental property? We know it’s a major decision from a business and financial standpoint, but some of the benefits of a kitchen update include increased occupancy, better income, a higher average daily rate and a great resale value if you are thinking ahead.

    Improvements can also make your vacation rental a nicer place for you and your family. Some people wonder just how nice their house should be. We think the answer is always the same, if you walk into your rental and are wowed, then your guests will be wowed as well. This results in better revenue.

    Where should you invest in your vacation rental ?

    Our advice is to start in the kitchen. One of the main reasons people choose vacation rentals over a hotel-type property is that they want to cook. And, if you are planning on cooking, you want a nice kitchen to cook in – possibly even cooking in a kitchen that is nicer than what they have at home.

    Next, remember all parties end up in the kitchen. A kitchen is more than a place to prepare meals, it is the primary gathering place in every home and this includes rentals. Since this area gets a lot of traffic, a rental property kitchen renovation might get you the highest return on your investment. When renters are shopping for vacation rentals they want a stylish, updated kitchen and if they don’t see that they may move on to the next listing.

    Here are some kitchen countertop options for your rental property.

    Quartz Countertops

    According to the National Kitchen and Bath Association (link https://nkba.org/) man- made quartz is one of the top selling materials for kitchen surfaces. It is more scratch and stain-resistant than granite, which is the second most commonly utilized material. Quartz is made by combining mineral fragments with heavy-duty resins. It is durable and chip resistant, and it is fairly priced at slightly above granite but still below marble.

    Quartz countertops are also considered to be environmentally friendly as they are created by combining waste stones and not mined. Overall, quartz is functional, affordable and practical. The only downside may be some people find the look of quartz to be too uniform, missing the mark for people who like the natural irregularity of marble. New improvements in manufacturing have allowed quartz production to become more advanced with more sophisticated patterns.

    Granite Countertops

    People notice countertops, especially granite counters when they are shopping online. If you go online and look at pictures of vacation rentals, you will see how granite countertops “pop” in the pictures. They scream “quality.” And, even though there is some initial expense, it is a hard-wearing surface that will outlast most other countertops making this a solid long-term investment.

    Granite is not as durable as quartz; however, it still is scratch, stain and chip resistant. Manufacturers explain that darker-colored granite is denser, which increases their durability. For this reason, lighter-colored varieties of quartz might require sealing procedures. That also means those varieties are going to be more demanding when it comes to upkeep over the years of your rental property.

    Marble

    Marble is quite elegant and can be fairly affordable. Often times it can be cheaper than quartz and granite. People who are enthusiastic about cooking and baking are drawn to marble’s naturally cool temperature.

    Unfortunately, marble is quite porous which makes it vulnerable to scratches and permanent staining. If you choose marble countertops you have to be incredibly careful and mindful of foods and condiments which means this probably isn’t the right choice for a vacation rental. No one will take quite as good care as you!

    Kitchen countertops take up the majority of the kitchen space. They impact the look and feel of the room, it is one of the first things renters use when selecting a vacation rental. Property managers like countertop materials that look appealing and are easy to maintain. Kitchen countertops should aim to combine aesthetics, practicality and affordability.

    Need advice selecting a countertop for your rental?

    Reach out to the professionals at C and C Stoneworks. We are happy to talk with you and find a way to make your property more attractive to renters. Give us a call today at 252-902-5535.

    Countertop Materials That Will Change Your Home Aesthetics

    Posted on

    Kitchen island eye level view

    Granite, marble and quartz countertops can be mesmerizing!

    If you’re familiar with engineered and natural stone countertops, then we’re sure you know how sophisticated and stylish these three are. A few makeovers and upgrades with one of these top three  countertop materials and you could see your home sell faster.

    Certain countertop projects can impact the resale value of your home. In October’s blog, we’re going to look into the benefits of investing in granite, marble and quartz countertops.

     

    What’s so special about these three types of countertops?

    There is a reason why homeowners throughout eastern North Carolina insist on quartz, marble or granite countertops. When searching for the right countertop choice durability, ease of maintenance, availability of colors and uniqueness are all factors worth considering.

    Home buyers are looking for countertops with warmth, sophistication and class of natural stone, even if it is engineered, and all three of these materials meet these criteria.

    There are also some homeowners whose definition of quality is tied to the uniqueness of patterns and colors of a material. Again, these can also be found in these materials.

     

    Upgrade your countertops, even if you are not planning an immediate resale.

    Quality kitchen countertops are a major factor of not just the kitchen, but also with how a homeowner interacts within their living space. If the countertops are not what they want or need, they may choose to avoid spending time in a room that should be one of the most welcoming areas of a home.

    If you find that you are no longer enjoying your kitchen, then it may be time to invest in quality countertop materials.

     

    Why Chose Granite?

    If you have plans to sell your home, the dollar value of granite combined with their appeal can spark the interest of buyers. Having granite countertops in your home’s kitchen, adds an elegance to that room.

    When you invest in granite countertops, you will have durability in your kitchen, plus it will pass the test for beauty and appeal. The durability of granite countertops makes them more appealing to both current homeowners and future buyers.

     

    Why Quartz Countertops?

    You can definitely find  inexpensive engineered countertops such as laminate and solid surfaces, but you should remember that the durability and quality of a countertop is reflected in its price.

    You can get the same look of natural stone countertops with maximum durability in quartz. Just like with granite countertops, quartz countertops will last a lifetime if you want them to.

    The best benefit of quartz countertops is that they are non-porous which makes them easy to keep clean. All you need to keep quartz countertops clean is soap, water and a sponge.

     

    Why Invest in Marble Countertops?

    There are a lot of manmade materials that have been designed to look like marble, but they will never be able to mimic the original marble. Marble is formed from sedimentary rocks and limestone through a natural heating process.

    The veining you see in marble countertops are the impurities trapped in the rock as the Earth’s heat and pressure turned it into marble. This makes each piece of marble have a unique appearance.

     

    If you are searching for an experienced countertop fabricator in eastern North Carolina, look no further than C & C Stoneworks. Let us help you get the best return on investment from your new kitchen countertop, give us a call to speak with a team member today.

    Natural Stone Countertops

    Posted on

    ​Most people think of marble, granite and quartzite when they think of natural stone countertops. Natural stone is a classic choice for countertops because of their one-of-a-kind beauty. Below is an overview of natural stone choices along with information on their benefits, finishes, applications and more.

    Benefits:
    Since mother nature is responsible for natural stone, each slab is unique in their shade variations, cracks, chips, fissures, pits and pores. Whatever you do, do not let this scare you away? These variations are what make natural stone so beautiful! Natural stone is also very durable, and some natural stone is resistant to bacteria, heat, scratches, and stains, and can even be used in outdoor spaces. Depending on what finish you choose, it can change the overall look and resistance of your countertops.​

    Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Countertops:
    No matter what countertop surface you choose there will always be pros and cons. You should take these into consideration when choosing a material so you can make the best decision for your project based on your design preference and lifestyle.

    Granite

    • Pro: Durability. With regular sealing, granite countertops are heat, chemical, scratch and stain resistant.
    • Con: Granite is a porous material, so it does need to be resealed. Resealing natural stone countertops (granite, marble and quartzite) is recommended every 1 to 2 years to protect against staining.

    Marble

    • Pro: Marble countertops absolutely beautiful, and if they are well-maintained, they can increase your  property value.
    • Con: Easily Stain.

    Quartzite

    • Pro: Quartzite looks like marble. With their unique and their swirling designs make countertops look more interesting helping to create an impressive bathroom or kitchen.
    • Con: Although it is durable and strong, quartzite can be damaged by sharp objects, such as a knife. You must also seal quartzite countertops annually to keep them shiny and stain free.

    Soapstone

    • Pro: Very sanitary countertop because it is non-porous. It can be cleaned with a mild soap and a sponge.
    • Con: Since the stone is fairly soft, avoid cutting on it. Be careful not to drop heavy objects on it. The soft nature of soapstone makes it nice to the touch, but it is also its one main weakness.

    Finishes:
    Before the slab gets delivered and installed into your home, the last step of the fabrication process is the finish. Depending on your style, you can choose smooth, textured, glossy countertops or even have little to no shine. This is all achieved by the finish.

    • Polished: To achieve semi-gloss to high gloss on your countertop, polished should be your choice. Stains are less likely on polished countertops, but one negative is that a high-gloss surface shows scratches easier.
    • Honed: Honed is a popular finish for marble – it creates a smooth, matte look. The benefit is that scratches are difficult to see, but this makes the surface more prone to stains.

    Care:
    Care for your natural stone countertops depends on whether it is granite, marble, quartzite or soapstone. You will want to be sure you are taking the proper precautions to prevent damage. We highly recommend cleaning up spills with a soft cloth using mild soap and warm water. If the stain is more stubborn, a nonabrasive bristled brush could be used. Always use hot pads, cutting boards, placemats, trivets and coasters to protect your surface from staining, scratches and discoloration.

    Applications:
    The most common places are for natural stone to be incorporated in your home are in kitchens and bathrooms as countertops, but natural stone can be used in so many other areas of your home. Consider an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace surround, flooring, or backsplash.

    Our designer can help you incorporate natural stone into your home, call us to schedule a meeting today, 252-902-5535.

    Honed vs. Polished Granite – What You Should Know

    Posted on

    When deciding on granite countertops for your home, there are a lot of decisions to make. Of course, there is the color, but there’s also the edges and finishes. Even the smallest of details can make a big difference in the overall look of your completed countertop. As we mentioned, you will need to decide on the finish of your countertop – honed or polished. Many people don’t really know the difference, or quite possibly have never really looked into it. So, here is some information you need to know when deciding on the granite countertop finish for your home.

    ​What is honed granite?
    A honed finish on your granite will create a matte, low-gloss sheen. To create this finish, the polishing process is halted before buffing, leaving a surface that is not as reflective as typical granite. Honed finishes are perfect for homeowners looking for a casual, trendy or even aged look.

    What are the characteristics of honed granite?
    Due to its matte finish, honed granite is more resistant to scratches. When compared to polished granite, a scratch on this finish will be less noticeable because light will not reflect off of it as much. While honed granite is more resistant to scratches, it is however more susceptible to staining. If you choose this finish, just make sure to clean up spills in a timely manner.

    Honed Granite at a Glance
    Feel: Velvety
    Look: Matte/Low Gloss
    Durability: Resistant to scratches/more susceptible to staining
    Where to Use It: Kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, foyer, living room
    Maintenance: Wipe with water and mild detergent, clean up spills quickly, re-sealing is suggested over time.

    What is polished granite?
    A polished granite finish is the most common choice. It is highly reflective and puts on full display the vibrate color and character of your granite stone. It is smooth in texture and glossy. Some may even say it is shiny as it reflects the natural reflection of the stone’s crystals.

    What are the characteristics of polished granite?
    Granite with a polished finish is coated, making it less susceptible to stains. This finish makes for a more classic look in a kitchen or bathroom. Although it is more resistant to stains, the highly reflective surface makes scratches more visible.

    Polished Granite at a Glance
    Feel: Smooth
    Look: Shiny/Glossy
    Durability: More resistant to stains/susceptible to scratches and etches
    Where to Use It: Kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, fireplace surrounds and walls.
    Maintenance: Wipe with water and mild detergent, clean up spills quickly.

    No matter the granite countertop finish you choose, new countertops will make a great addition to your home. Be sure to contact C & C Stoneworks if you have any additional questions or are planning a remodel of your own.

    Can I Use Quartz for Bathroom Countertops?

    Posted on

    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!