(252) 902-5535
  • PAY DEPOSIT OR INVOICE

    • MERCHANDISE

    Category: Quartz

    Could You Be Damaging Your Quartz Countertops?

    Posted on

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

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

    Using Sharp Objects to Cut Food on the Countertops

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

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

    Putting Hot Items Directly on the Countertops

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

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

    Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

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

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

    Disinfecting Your Bathroom with Bleach

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

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

    Putting Too Much Weight on Them

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

    Staining is Possible

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

    Getting Them Sealed

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

    Ask the Countertop Experts at C & C Stoneworks

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

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

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

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

    Why Quartz Countertops are Great if you Love to Bake

    Posted on

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

    Temperature Control

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

    Not Porous and are Easy to Care For

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

    Extremely Durable

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

    Mix of Real Stone and Resin

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

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

    What You Need to Know About Matte Quartz Countertops

    Posted on

    Our last blog gave you all the details, pros and cons, on polished quartz countertops. This blog will focus on the matte finish in hopes of helping you make the best decision for your home when you choose to upgrade your kitchen or bathroom to quartz countertops. Remember, the finish is an important decision and one that should reflect your style and taste.

    Matte Quartz Countertops

    Matte quartz countertops are preferred among homeowners who are seeking a refined, modern aesthetic for their kitchen or bathroom. In contrast to their polished counterparts, which radiate a shiny and luminescent surface, matte finishes exude a modest, non-reflective personality. This leads to a toned-down appeal that works well with multiple design themes and styles. With less propensity to reveal smudges, watermarks, and fingerprints, matte quartz countertops provide a practical option for busy households, adding a hint of sophistication to any room with their smooth, velvety touch.

    Advantages of Matte Finish

    Choosing a matte finish for your quartz countertops offers a number of benefits. To start, matte finishes are experts at camouflaging blemishes and scrapes, making them an unbeatable choice for high traffic areas. They also prove to be more accommodating when it comes to maintenance and cleaning as they are less prone to display watermarks or smudges in comparison to polished finishes. Additionally, matte quartz countertops make for a more authentic and muted presentation, contributing to a distinct, modern charm in your kitchen or bathroom. The subdued reflection also minimizes glare and creates a calm ambiance.

    Disadvantages of Matte Finish

    There are some drawbacks of matte quartz countertops that should be considered. The first drawback to watch for is a potential increase in cleaning frequency compared to polished counter surfaces. Matte surfaces can make dust and blemishes more noticeable, urging for regular upkeep to retain their pristine appearance. You should also be aware that matte finishes might somewhat mute the quartz’s innate color brilliance and sparkle. If you are inclined towards a vibrantly reflective look, a polished finish could be a better fit.

    Maintenance Tips for Matte Quartz Countertops

    Keeping matte quartz countertops looking their best is easy with proper care. It is crucial to wipe away spills promptly to avoid staining or engraving. Use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser and a soft cloth or sponge for routine cleanings. Stay away from harsh chemicals or coarse scrubbers that could mar the matte finish. Use a chopping board when using sharp utensils and make sure hot pans or pots are always placed on hot pads or trivets to protect the countertop from harmful heat.

    Let the team at C & C Stoneworks help you with your next kitchen countertop project. Remember we are licensed and insured contractors, we have an in-house interior design consultation and when you collaborate with us, we are full-service, meaning you will not have to hire another professional to complete your project. .

    To speak with our interior design consultant, call 252-902-5535 or visit our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC. C & C Stoneworks provides service throughout eastern North Carolina including Greenville, Goldsboro, Morehead City and New Bern.

     

    Everything You Need to Know about Polished Quartz Countertops

    Posted on

    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.

    Purchasing the Right Quartz Countertops

    Posted on

    Before you begin looking for quartz countertops, you should have some idea of what you need for your new or remodeled kitchen or bathroom. You will want to consider how long you plan to be in the house, and you will want an idea of what your cabinets and fixtures will be so everything can match.

    Your kitchen is the center of your home. You not only cook there, but it is also where you gather and entertain, so you will want to be sure your quartz countertops reflect this. Your new quartz countertops need to compliment your style, needs and the current living space. You need to be well-informed when you start your search.

    Things you should know when buying quartz countertops:

    Function should always come first.

    Every house is different and so are quartz countertops. There is no such thing as one size fits all when it comes to natural stone countertops. Quartz is available in assorted colors and styles, and some are made with kitchens in mind and others are for bathrooms. Our first tip before buying quartz countertops is to rank the features by your order of importance – such as durability, stain resistance, easy maintenance and cost before you make your quartz countertops purchase.

    The style of your quartz countertops.

    Make sure you shop around and look at a variety of options before you decide. Be sure you like the texture, look, feel and colors that are available. Do you need your countertop to be warm or cool to the touch? Do you want seamless appearance? What about a bright color? These are just a couple of other details you should consider along with the thickness, edge profile and overhangs when searching for the right quartz countertop. And the result should leave you amazed!

    Should you mix several types of quartz countertops?

    From ease of maintenance to scratch and heat resistance, every style of quartz has its own unique characteristics. Because of this, how do you choose which one to pick? Can you use more than one? The answer from many kitchen and bath designers is to mix it up. Mixing several types of quartz countertops could produce an amazing, completed space.

    How do you set your budget?

    This is a harder decision than what to pick! You need to know where you are starting before you start picking options. You need to remember to include things like delivery and installation costs, and specialty treatments such as the edges, backsplash and your sink, when putting together your budget.

    Take home the largest sample possible, or see it in another kitchen, before purchasing

    Quartz countertops come in many variations, from the patterns and colors to tonal qualities called vein movement. Some types of quartz have uniform speckled patterns and others have more veining or swirls, which are meant to mimic other natural stones such as marble.

    Unlike granite, you can get multiple slabs of quartz in the same color, pattern and veining. If you can bring home a large sample from the showroom, you may be better able to envision it installed in your kitchen or bath.

    For more tips on choosing not only quartz countertops, but also granite, marble and dolomite countertops, visit C and C Stoneworks’ showroom on Hwy 43 South in Greenville, NC today. Our interior design consultant will guide you through the process, from helping you choose your stone to the final installation. Give our team a call today, 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.