Bathroom Archives - Page 2 of 4 - Flemington Granite

How To Turn Your Bathroom Into A Luxury Spa

When you’ve had a long work week, heading to a spa can provide your mind and body with an unparalleled feeling of relaxation. When it gets colder outside, however, most people don’t want to go out any more than they have to, instead preferring to stay in where it’s warm. No matter what the weather might be outside, you can create your own personal sanctuary inside of your home by transforming your bathroom into your personal spa. In order to do so, you’ll need to simply add a few extra details to lend the type of atmosphere you find in spas. It is not necessary to have a sauna or a Jacuzzi or even a large bathroom. It’s the small details that can give the room a soothing appeal by incorporating input geared towards your senses.

Appeal to your sense of sight

The first impression you have when you enter a bathroom is its visual appeal. This makes the visual elements key for creating an initial spa-like impression. You’ll notice that many spas take a minimalist approach, allowing the simplicity of the decor to open the room and allow serenity. Here are some ways you can give your own bathroom that comfortable spa-like appeal:

● Choose Earth tones for your color scheme

Most people head out into nature to enjoy the scenery and beauty. You can bring that sense of nature into your bathroom by choosing Earth tones for your room’s color scheme. Muted greens, grays and browns can all lend a natural feel. If your bathroom is small, choose shades that are lighter so it doesn’t feel cramped, such as light beige, pale green or a mist-like gray.

● Install dimmable bathroom lights

Nothing can lend a sense of romance to your bath than installing dimmable lights in wall scones or recessed ceiling lights. This helps you to get a soft glow when you just want to relax. Since this type of installation requires a high degree of electrical knowledge, it is important that you get the help of a professional.

● Add faux wood floor tiles for an added feeling of warmth

Wood provides the natural ambiance of outdoors, but it is not a good material to use in moist areas. Faux wood tile made out of porcelain or ceramic tile has the natural textural appearance of wood with a much better resistance to water.

● Rid your counters of old toiletries and clutter

Cluttered rooms make people feel stressed. Consequently, spas keep their toiletries stashed out of the way and orderly. With small bathrooms, it may be impossible to hide all of your toiletries. You can still toss old, outdated ones as well as those that you do not use. This can help clear out space in your vanity for some of the toiletries cluttering your countertop. For those that you use a lot, try storing them in glass jars. This can make them look like just another piece of your room’s decor.

Appeal to your sense of touch

Hydrotherapeutic facilities at your preferred spas are obviously expensive. You can still add the following amenities to give yourself that sensual feel:

● Trade in your old tub with a soaking tub that is small and deep

There are many tubs available on the market that have a length of five feet or less but are deep enough for you to enjoy a good soak. Consider a Japanese soaking tub. They are a lot deeper than are other smaller tubs and let you submerge your entire body. Many of these also are equipped with built-in seats for added relaxation while you soak.

● Trade in your shower head for a massaging one

If your bathroom is small enough that a soaking tub is not an option, consider trading in your old shower head for one that is massaging. This can give you with that relaxation you want. If you need to do so, get rid of your existing bathtub entirely and upgrade your shower.

● Add towel warmers

There’s nothing quite like stepping out of a warm and relaxing shower or bath and wrapping up with a heated towel. Towel warmers are available and have become very popular in current bathroom renovation trends. These mount to your walls so they don’t take up too much room as well.

Appeal to your sense of smell

One of the first things you probably notice when you head to your favorite spa is the wonderful smells inside. Aromatherapy has been shown to improve people’s moods and overall health. In the morning, you might be able to heighten your senses better with peppermint scents. At night,jasmine and lavender can help relax the cares of the day away. Scents can be added through your personal care products as well as through adding diffusers or scented candles. If you tend to be forgetful, choose oil diffusers over candles as they are safer.

Appeal to your sense of sound

Try to avoid wall-mounted televisions in your bathroom as they do not lend to a feeling of tranquility. Instead, think more about using a waterproof Bluetooth speaker to pipe in your favorite meditative music.

Appeal to your sense of taste

While thinking about taste while bathing may sound odd, consider enjoying a long, relaxing soak while also sipping your favorite wine or champagne. When you use a tub tray, you can do just that. Tub trays are available at most home improvement stores.

It is not difficult to transform your bathroom into your personal at-home spa retreat. By incorporating your senses and paying attention to the small details, you can turn your bathroom into a sanctuary you can enjoy over and over again.

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Curbless Walk-In Shower – Pros and Cons

In many new or renovated homes, you’ll find curbless walk-in showers, which have greatly increased in popularity among designers and homeowners alike. Before you decide to install your own curbless shower, it is important for you to consider the advantages and disadvantages of them. They are not the best choice for everyone, and you know both your family and the space with which you are working better than anyone else.

Pros of a Curbless Walk-In Shower

● Great use of smaller available space

A curbless shower works well in smaller bathrooms. With continual flooring made from natural stone slabs or tile extending across the bathroom and into the shower, the look can appear seamless and make your bathroom appear larger. It goes beyond the appearance, however, as curbless showers take away the need for a shower door or curtain and take up significantly less space than curbed showers or bathtubs.

● Easier cleaning

Another great feature of curbless showers is their ease of cleaning. Instead of having to bend over and scrub an enclosed shower or tub, The curbless type allows you to easily access it. When you also have pull-down handheld showerheads, cleaning may involve even less work, obviating the need for you to bend over repeatedly.

● Easier to get in and out of

One of the best advantages of a curbless walk-in shower is how easy they are for people to get in and out of. This is terrific for people who are older or who have elderly parents living with them. Instead of having to deal with a 4-inch lip around a curbed shower or the edge of a tub, you can simply just walk right in. This makes it less likely that people will trip and fall as well, no matter their ages.

Cons of a Curbless Walk-In Shower

● Little to no privacy

Without a shower door or curtain, you will have less privacy. This can be handled by installing glass blocks or a curtain if privacy is important.

● Water going across the floor

Without a lip around your shower, you’ll have a harder time keeping the water from your shower from going across your bathroom floor. Some people combat this by using a rain shower head because it keeps the water coming down in one spot.

● Feeling colder while you shower

You may feel colder when you shower because of not having a shower door or curtain to trap in heat. Some people solve this problem by combining their curbless showers with heated floors.

If you want to learn more about curbless showers and see some design options that will work for your bathroom remodeling project, call us today or fill in your information in our contact form.

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10 Small Bathroom Trends You Can’t Afford To Ignore

When you are working with a bathroom that has a tiny layout, deciding how to best remodel it may be challenging. By incorporating some smart design strategies, you can still make your small bathroom look beautiful while also improving its function.

At Flemington Granite, our professional designers work with our customers to help them visualize the bathrooms they would like to have. We help them with creating floor plans that can bring the results they want. Here are some ideas that can transform your small bathroom into a beautiful and more usable space.

1. Install mirrors across entire walls

When you add mirrors covering an entire wall, your small bathroom can instantly look as if it is twice its size. This works especially well above your bathroom’s vanity or across the side of a bathroom that is narrow. Because of their reflective properties, they also provide your room with more light from your windows or existing fixtures.

2. Install wall-mounted toilets

Wall-mounted toilets have toilet tanks built into the walls of bathrooms. If your walls have room, installing a wall-mounted toilet can give you additional needed space in which you can move. If wall-mounting a toilet is not possible in your bathroom, adding above-tank shelves can provide you with the added storage to meet your needs.

3. Remove your bathtub

A bathtub takes up double the amount of space than showers do. If you are able to remove the tub in your small bathroom, you’ll add significant space to the room. Showers are also great for guests, adults and elderly people. Adding hand showers can also allow you to easily bathe your pets. If you have small children that require a bathtub for bathing, choosing a tub with a lower profile will open up your bathroom while also making it easier for them to get in and out of the bath.

4. Install frameless glass shower panels

Shower curtains cordon off around a third of a small bathroom. They are also difficult to clean. One idea to take care of both issues is to rid yourself of them. Instead, consider installing frameless glass panels for your tub and shower. This can visually open up your room and reduce the problems of keeping shower curtains clean. Installation is fairly straightforward. You can either hinge glass panels so they swing or you can fix them in place. Hinged panels can be swung inwards when no one is using the shower. You do not want to choose sliding glass panels because of their cleaning difficulty.

5. Installing curbless showers and continual flooring

Curbless showers are among our favorite design ideas for small bathrooms. Getting rid of the curb around the base of the shower can allow you to install flooring that extends directly into your shower for a seamless look. This is a terrific choice when you are using natural stone, tile or concrete for your flooring. Infinity-edge or concealed drains can add to the effect.

6. Installing floating vanities and small sinks

Another great way to save additional floor space and open up your bathroom is installing wall-mounted sinks. When storage is needed, you can choose to install wall-mounted floating vanities to get the storage space that you need. There are thin-edge and narrow washbasin designs available to maximize the space.

7. Adding shelving and cabinets on the walls

Instead of taking up floor space for clunky vanities with storage, try thinking about installing open shelves and cabinets on your bathroom’s walls. You can install recessed cabinets in the walls with mirrored fronts. This can give you the storage you need while also making the room appear larger. Use towel bars or hooks on the back of the bathroom door to add more space.

8. Installing pocket doors

When you install a pocket door on your bathroom, you’ll save the room required for a door that swings into the room. Installing one will require your opening up the wall to make the pocket. While the installation may be tricky, doing so can give you an additional 9 feet of useable space that wasn’t available to you before. It will also allow you much more flexibility when you are trying to decide where to place your bathroom fixtures.

9. Lighten up the walls

Dark walls can make small bathrooms feel even smaller. Using light colors for your wall palette will help by reflecting additional light and making the room feel larger. If you must use dark colors, save them for your floor. Matching shower tiles to wood floors in the bathroom can help by not drawing visual attention to the smallest area of your bathroom.

10. Creating an accent wall

If you really want to add some color in your bathroom, try adding an accent wall for the back of the room. This can include adding color across the entire wall or just a band of it. You can do so with paint or with tile. Keep the remaining walls neutral to increase the visual drama.

It is possible for you to transform your bathroom into a beautiful and more functional space even if it is small. To learn more how the professional design team at Flemington Granite can help, we invite you to call us today to schedule your appointment.

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How To Choose The Perfect Grout For Your Tile

When you are planning to install tile in your remodeling project, the grout you choose for your tiles is a very important consideration. Grout not only keeps your tiles in place and together, it also is an important part of your chosen design. If you choose the right grout for your renovation project, you will likelier be pleased with the end result.

When you choose grout, you’ll find that it now comes in a broad variety of hues. You can choose to blend it to match with your tiles or contrast with them. You can also use accent colors for mosaic-type design patterns. The grout you choose can complement your chosen tiles or make them stand out. It can also provide a slight change in the look, making it classic or modern.

Grout That Blends

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Sep 4, 2015 at 5:04am PDT

When you choose a grout that blends in with the tile’s base color, this will help your tile’s detail stand out, making your tile the focal point. For instance, a grout that matches the base color of marble will help the delicate veins to shine. Blending grout in this manner also helps the patterns, color and other details stand out.

This is a great choice if the area in which you are installing tile is small. It helps to make the area look and feel larger. The pattern of installation will fade, and the tile’s beauty will instead be what stands out.

When you are using natural stone tiles, such as marble or granite, your default grout selection may be matching your tile’s base color. This gives a classic appearance that will help people focus on the natural variations in color.

When you instead choose a grout that matches the veins of marble tiles, you’ll get an entirely different look. This will make the installation pattern stand out and give you a retro feel in your kitchen, bathroom or alternate installation area.

Grout That Contrasts

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Feb 18, 2016 at 6:26am PST

When you go with contrasting grout, the installation pattern itself will be the focal point. For example, pairing a light-colored grout with dark granite tiles can help pull the room together by picking out the color variations of backsplashes and kitchen countertops.

More modern designs might use gray grout together with white subway tiles. This is a current trend. It changes the look of the room completely. Whether your grout is lighter than your tile or darker, contrasting grout makes the pattern stand out. You’ll want to think about different offset installation patterns to make the room have a greater degree of visual interest. In addition to using this idea indoors, it can also work for outdoor designs as well.

You’ll also want to be careful that you select the right grout for your tile installation project. While sanded grouts are cheaper, they can scratch tiles such as marble but are safe for porcelain. Non-sanded grouts are more expensive. You should work with the person installing your tiles to select the most appropriate grout type for your project and your tile.

Tips For Choosing Your Grout

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Sep 28, 2015 at 8:58am PDT

1. Take a piece of plywood and install some tile on its surface, using different grout colors. Give it time to cure, and then take the plywood and put it in the room. This will let you see how your light affects the grout colors. It can differ with natural, LED, fluorescent and incandescent lighting. Understand that grout may take days or weeks to cure. You need to make certain you have given it adequate time to do so before making your choice.

2. If you use light-colored or white grout, make certain you seal it. This will help protect the color of your grout and prevent mold and mildew build-up on it.

3. Dark grout help to hide dirt and stains, but sunlight may make their color fade.

4. It is a good idea to keep some unmixed grout from your project in case you need to repair it in the future.

When you are preparing to design your project, you can trust the professionals at Flemington Granite to help you select your natural stone or engineered stone tiles and grout. We also help you with your design and planning needs. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.

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Make Your Home Look More Expensive With These Tips

Like most people, you probably dream of making your home look just like what you might find in a design magazine or on a design website. For most of us, our budgets simply won’t accommodate that, however. It is still possible to make your home look elegant, luxurious and expensive without killing your budget.

If you are careful with how you arrange your items, making certain the arrangement is pleasing to the eye, it will help. You should also do a few additional and inexpensive things to achieve a real impact.

Here are some tips on how you can transform your home into a space of luxury without spending too much money.

1. Get Rid of Excess Clutter

One thing that will draw the eye from your home’s design is too much clutter. You should start by going through each room and taking an inventory. If you see pieces that do not go with the room’s theme, you may want to store or donate them instead. Then, you should work to find places to store things that tend to build up in places, such as mail or toys. Organization is key with this. You might want to add shelving in your closets for added storage and functionality.

2. Keep it Clean

At least once or twice yearly, give your home a thorough once-over with an intense cleaning. You’ll also want to make certain that you pick stuff up daily and clean up after yourself. When you are ready for the deep cleaning, pay attention to often-overlooked areas such as dirty grout, baseboards and other such areas.

If you have wood floors, you can bring the finish back to life by steam-cleaning them.

3. Add One Large Art Piece

Adding a single large piece of art in place of smaller pieces in cheap frames can give any room an interesting focal point while making it also look more expensive.

4. Focus on Lighting

With the right lighting, you can make a smaller space look larger. You can also use it to define your different spaces and rooms. In a single room, having various kinds of lighting can help to define the individual spaces. Dimmers are terrific to install, as they can help you add the mood that fits the moment. Using warmer bulbs will also add warmth in an understated manner.

5. Make Hardware Upgrades

Even if you can’t afford to renovate your kitchen or bathroom, you can help them to look more up-to-date by investing in new hardware. If you like a vintage look, head to thrift stores and search. You may be able to find hardware there that fit you and the style you want. If you do have a sufficient budget, think about installing new countertops and sinks as well.

6. Repaint

Painting your home is a simple and inexpensive way to bring it back to life. You’ll want to make sure you choose gorgeous colors when you repaint. Classic neutrals always work, with or without colorful accent walls. You can also paint doors or trim.

6. Concentrate on the Details

If your home seems boring and you’re not quite where to start, try adding pieces of decor to increase the room’s general interest. You can add beautiful frames and vases to make a boring room look more luxurious. When you do this, think about a theme around which your pieces will be arranged in order to present a unified story. You can also choose to group several different types of the same object, such as several interesting bottles of the same color. Using odd numbers of multiples may be more appealing.

By following these small tips, your home can look gorgeous before you know it. Even if your budget won’t support a major home renovation, you can still make it look beautiful with these simple steps.

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Get Your Money Back With These Bathroom Remodeling Tips

The National Association of Homebuilders reported that Oct. 2015 showed a record 57 for the remodeling market index, or RMI. This marked the sixth quarter consecutively demonstrating a large amount of activity, and the forecasts continue to look good throughout 2016.

Bathroom renovations are one of the most popular renovation types for homeowners. One reason is that these renovations provide one of the best returns when homes are resold, with midrange upgrades retaining 72.5 percent and upscale upgrades retaining 63.6 percent of the value.

If you are considering a bathroom renovation, you will likely enjoy a great return on the investment you make. It is possible to even make your bathroom pay for the investment you make, allowing you to get your money back entirely, by doing the following things.

Adding to Your Home’s Resale Value

If you are thinking about eventually selling, real estate agents report that buyers tend to look at bathrooms to help them make their decisions. This means that if there is stiff competition in the real estate market, you may want to upgrade your bathroom to make it stand out.

Aesthetics and Functionality

The beauty and taste of a bathroom, or its aesthetics, is a huge issue. Potential buyers are often willing to pay much more for features such as granite or marble countertops and updated fixtures, making them important things for you to consider including. You may also want to consider travertine tiles for your flooring or using delicately beautiful mosaics to accentuate the room and add to its beauty.

If your bathroom is laid out in an awkward manner, you might want to consider changing it. A layout scheme that is efficiently combined with accent lighting can help make the room feel larger and airier. Adding things storage space, double vanities, heated flooring and walk-in showers are all features that buyers also love.

Increasing Energy and Water Efficiency

Buyers tend to pay attention to upgrades that help to reduce the consumption of energy and water. These provide you with your own long-term savings as well while you are still remaining in your home. Doing such things as installing low-flow showerheads and faucets can save a family around 17,000 gallons of water annually along with between $60 and $120 on their water and energy bills.

Along with retrofitting your bathroom’s faucets and showerhead, you may also want to install a new water heater that is more efficient. This can help you reduce the heating costs you have for your water by as much as 30 percent for the most energy-efficient models.

Final Bathroom Remodeling Tips

Before you decide on a specific remodeling scheme, make certain you do your research. It is best to go with classic designs, as what buyers think is attractive today can change drastically in time. It is similarly important to know whether your goal is to resell your house or if you instead just want a new bathroom for you and your family to enjoy. Writing down all of your visions and goals and then speaking with a professional designer is a smart approach.

We have a team of designers available at Flemington Granite that can help you plan and transform your bathroom. You can take a look at our bathroom visualizer to get a better idea of how you might turn your bathroom into what you want. Give us a call today or simply fill out our contact form, and we will be happy to help you.

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Choosing the Perfect Stone Tiles For Your Home

When you are trying to pick the flooring type to install for your home renovation, choosing natural stone can add elegance, durability and beauty. You’ll want to make certain to choose the stone that will fit best with your home.

Part of this is understanding what types are available as well as the characteristics and features of each.

There are several different natural stone options that can work well in different rooms of your house.

Travertine Tiles

Travertine tiles are formed out of calcite, and they are a bit softer than limestone. These tiles come in several different earthen hues and come in either polished or porous forms. Because of the porous nature, these tiles do require professional sealing to prevent them from being stained, especially if you have children or pets.

Marble Tiles

A classic choice dating back thousands of years, marble tiles are truly one-of-a-kind. Marble comes in several different shades and is characterized by its veins. The veining of marble occurs while the stone is being formed, making each stone completely unique. Unfortunately, marble is highly porous, making it susceptible to staining and scratching.

Granite Tiles

Granite is a terrific choice for flooring, both when you use it inside as well as outside. Highly lustrous, granite can make your floor shine with a high polish. It is one of the strongest stones available and is just below diamond in hardness. It repels water and can be trusted to stand the test of time. It is a cold stone, so you’ll want to keep that in mind if you are considering it for your flooring.

Slate Tiles

Formed out of metamorphic rock, slate has a very rustic appearance. It is great for providing traction and resistance to slipping. Slate tiles do come in a fairly limited range of darker hues, making that one of its downsides.

Limestone Tiles

Formed from calcitrate, limestone shows the natural striations when it is formed into tiles. This gives it a similar striated appearance to wood flooring. It comes in lighter colors and is very durable, but it does absorb water, making it a better choice for indoor renovations.

Sandstone

Yet another metamorphic stone, sandstone provides terrific traction and is very durable. It is a good choice for bathrooms, kitchens and hallways alike. One limitation is that it lacks much color choice.

With better familiarity with the available types of stone, here are some additional factors you should consider so you can choose the one that’s right for you and your home.

1. Expense

Installing stone flooring tiles requires the use of qualified professionals. Cutting these stones is much more complicated than cutting wood. Installing stone on your home’s subflooring also requires a lot of additional work. You’ll also need to think about other materials that you’ll need, such as grout, plaster or cement. Thinking about where in your home and how large the space is is important, as natural stone flooring is one of the more expensive choices.

2. Purpose

While stone blends beautifully into almost any room in your home, you’ll want to consider how the room is used. For example, slate may be a better option for bathrooms. Children’s bedrooms may not be the best place for most types of natural stone tiles since most are rather hard or prone to staining.

3. Lifestyle

You’ll want to think about the lifestyle you have when you are choosing stone flooring. Pets may not like them. They may also take a longer period of time for installation.

If you are wanting a terrific choice for flooring in your home, choosing stone tiles is definitely a good option. By keeping your tastes and needs in mind, you are sure to find the stone tile that will best fit you and the room in which it will be installed. To learn more about the different options, give the professionals at Flemington Granite a call today. You can also complete your information in our provided contact form, and we will get back to you shortly.

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Your Bathroom Is Nasty! Here’s What You Forgot To Clean

Most of us understand that a bathroom needs to be cleaned, and we regularly do so to try to keep it in a sanitary condition. There are certain things people tend to do, however, that can make the bathroom a breeding ground for bacteria.

Here are some common areas that people forget to clean and that can end up making you sick.

Shower Curtains and Liners

Many of us fail to wash our shower curtains and liners on a regular basis. This can cause mold to grow. When mold forms, you can then end up inhaling the spores and getting sick as a result.

Curtains and liners can be washed in the washing machine, and you should wash them as soon as you see cloudiness begin to build up on them.

All of the Parts of Your Toilet

While most of us know to wipe off the top of the toilet, clean the seat and rim and use cleaner in the bowl, we forget to clean all of the parts of the toilet. It’s best to start from the top and work your way down, taking care to clean the little nooks and crevices of it.

After you have scrubbed it with your toilet brush, make sure to clean your brush as well instead of returning it unwashed to its holder.

Soap Dishes

If you must use bar soap, then make sure to clean the dish your soap sits in regularly. Bacteria will grow in these dishes and even on your soap.

If you instead use liquid hand soap, you should still make certain to clean off the pump part of the bottle with disinfectant between uses.

Bath Loofahs and Sponges

Many people love using bath loofahs and sponges in their showers, so if you do, make sure that you don’t use them for too long.

Bacteria can quickly build up in these accessories and cause infection. You should replace them at least every three months.

Faucet Handles, Towel Racks, Light Switches and Door Knobs

Anywhere someone can touch, they leave germs behind. Whether a family member or friend forgets to wash their hands, or they simply don’t wash them well enough, they can leave germs behind on the faucet handles, light switch, towel rack and door knob of your bathroom.

Make certain to regularly clean all of these types of surfaces to prevent bacteria and viruses from building up on them.

When you make certain to add these small tasks to your regular bathroom cleaning routine, you can help to keep you and your family from passing illnesses back and forth. You’ll also be able to enjoy a bathroom that sparkles.

4 Ways Flemington Granite Can Revitalize Your Home

Your home should feel like your personal sanctuary, rather than some dated space that leaves you feeling as drab as your surroundings. Many of us bought homes that had features, that while popular at the time, are now so old, they make our homes scream that they come from another time.

Rather than just settling for the tired carpet, linoleum flooring, dated backsplashes and discolored wooden decks, there are several home remodeling ideas that can be done to help make all of our homes classic and timeless.

Bathroom Remodeling

Nothing can bring out the beauty of your bathroom than choosing a lovely natural stone to give a sense of tranquility. Classic marble used on the floors and countertops can make the room shine beautifully. Granite can be used as well, coming in a variety of different colors, for a rich and inspiring appearance.

Travertine countertops and floors can provide that coolness that you want. No matter the design preferences you might have, choosing one of these natural stones as the base to work around can transform your bathroom.

To see how these different natural stones can work in your bathroom, make certain to look at our bathroom visualizer, which allows you to try different stones and colors to see what you like the best.

Livingroom Remodeling

Besides pulling out and replacing tired carpet, flooring and fixtures, nothing can transform a living room more than refacing your fireplace with natural stone. Doing so can make your fireplace into the focal point of the room, helping to draw your eyes to its beauty.

To see how different types of natural stones might look for your fireplace, you can use our stacked stone visualizer to get an idea.

Outdoor Living

Instead of replacing or varnishing the wood on your deck, try thinking about replacing it entirely with a beautiful natural-stone patio. Natural stone can be used to build a wonderful outdoor entertainment space that will blend in with the surrounding foliage.

You can build an outdoor kitchen out of natural stone for entertaining your guests. Adding touches such as beautiful fountains, columns, outdoor living patio furniture and other things can make your backyard a true place to which you can escape.

Modern Kitchen Remodeling

Either stone or engineered stone are great choices for your kitchen remodeling project. While granite is a beautiful and classic choice for floors, countertops and backsplashes, engineered stone is also terrific.

Manufactured from ground quartz that is combined with resin and pigment, engineered stone offers the same beauty as natural stone products but does not need to be resealed, is highly resistant to staining and comes in a wide range of colors.

Caesarstone requires no sealing and can stand up to the most vigorous of uses.
Pental quartz lends the same beautiful appeal as natural stone and comes in a variety of different colors, textures and levels of shine.
Silestone is a terrific choice for walls, backsplashes and countertops because it is engineered to be bacteria-resistant.
Cambria is a beautiful choice, coming in a variety of different colors and offering all that natural stone has to offer. Cambria also is highly durable and is able to stand up to almost anything. To see what the different choices might look like, you can use our kitchen visualizer.

No matter the size of your home renovation project, our team of professional designers are ready and able to help you to make your dream a reality.

We invite you to stop by our show room today to see some of what we have to offer. You can also call to schedule your appointment or simply fill in your contact information in the provided form and we will get back with you shortly.

Bathroom Visualizer Caesarstone Cambria Kitchen Visualizer PentalQuartz Silestone Stacked Stone Visualizer

What’s The Best Way To Deal With Contractors?

Many homeowners have problems with communicating with the contractors they hire to complete work on their home.

It is common for homeowners to view contractors with suspicion since they are unknown people working in the home. For their part, some contractors, believing their clients to be naive, dislike communicating with them.

Still, the relationship will be much more beneficial for both if the communication channels are open.

When you are preparing for your home renovation project, here are some ways that you can improve your communication with your contractors so you get better results.

1. Know the results you want

It is not uncommon for a homeowner to decide during an ongoing project that they really wanted something different. Sudden midstream changes like this can throw a loop in a contractor’s job.

They may then have to undo work they’ve already completed or spend a longer time on your project than what they had planned for.

By knowing and planning ahead, you can prevent these types of problems while also saving yourself significant costs.

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Nov 5, 2015 at 5:55am PST

2. Understand that there will be messes, and then work to reduce them

A home renovation project will be messy. You might expect dust and other types of issues. To find out exactly what you should expect, ask your contractor before they begin the job.

You can also help by preparing the areas in which the work will be performed in advance, such as removing possessions and covering furniture in other areas that dust might reach.

You’ll also want to find out from your contractor if there are times when you should vacate the premises due to fumes or similar hazards.

3. Understand that you are not your contractor’s only client

Some homeowners forget that their contractor likely has other clients and projects at the same time. While some may approach their work client-by-client, many do not have that luxury.

Sometimes, a project simply goes longer than for what they planned. When you are understanding about this fact of business, you’re more likely to receive benefits in return from your contractor, such as a willingness to add additional tasks on to the work you originally requested.

4. Understand that delays sometimes occur

Home improvement projects often take a lot more time than what you might see on television or would expect. Unexpected developments sometimes occur, extending the time that was projected.

Weather can also play a major role, depending on your project. For example, an outdoor project may be delayed by snow, ice or rain.

Weather may also delay the completion of indoor projects, especially if the wood has become damp and needs to dry before it can be properly installed. Similarly, if your contractor gives you a time estimate in days, that does not mean that the days of work will be consecutive.

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Oct 2, 2015 at 4:57am PDT

5. Avoid trying to help because it can hurt

Don’t automatically assume that you can help your contractor while they are working. If this is something you want to do, you need to check with them about any help that is needed or if they would prefer you not try.

Even if you have a small amount of knowledge about a task, you could also end up causing damage by trying to help.

6. Your project may cost more than you expect

One of the major complaints homeowners make about contractors is about jobs costing more than they expected. To keep the project within your budget, you need to clearly communicate what it is to your contractor.

The final cost may still be higher than the estimate you were given because of issues that can arise or changes you request.

It’s a good idea to tell your contractor the amount you do not want to go above so they can have a better idea of what you’re working with.

7. Not all contractors are shady

While horror stories abound about shady contractors, most are hardworking people who simply want to do a good job for you. One thing to understand is people are more likely to talk about the bad experiences they’ve had rather than the good ones.

While there are certainly some bad contractors out there, some have also been ripped off by their clients, such as being paid with a bad check or dealing with clients refusing to pay.

8. Find a good contractor

To find a good contractor, there are several things you should do. First, find one you can communicate with, that you genuinely like and that you trust.

Take your search beyond the Yellow Pages. Many good contractors work more by word of mouth and no longer rely on advertising. This means you should ask other people you know about contractors they would recommend.

You can also ask your local home improvement store for names of people they would recommend.

When you think you’ve found the right contractor, check to see that they are licensed and insured.

To start the planning process and work towards your home renovation project, call Flemington Granite today to schedule your appointment. You can also stop by our showroom and we will be happy to show you the different things we can do and schedule a time to come to your home for an estimate.

home improvement

10 Home Improvement Tricks That Work Every Time!

When you were younger, you probably thought about how your grandparents worked to scrimp and save every penny with amusement. Now as an adult, you likely understand why they did so, and you are most likely looking for ways to reduce your own expenses.

There are multiple ways you can save money by making simple home improvement fixes that will save you money.

Here are 10 things you can do.

1. Shorten your dryer vent hose

When your dryer vent is free of obstructions and shorter, your dryer will run with greater efficiency. After disconnecting the hose, use your vacuum cleaner to clean it out. Then, cut the hose to a length that is only long enough for you to be able to pull your dryer a couple of feet away from the wall.

Cost: Free.
Savings: You will save around $25 yearly on your electricity, gas or propane use. Plus, your clothing will dry a lot faster.

2. Close closet doors to lower the square footage you’re heating (and cooling).

Keeping your closet doors closed helps to lower your heating and cooling expenses. If they are located along the exterior walls of your home, closing them also helps to provide an additional layer of insulation, further reducing your energy bills. Shuttering closets along exterior walls also helps to insulate the house.

Cost: Free
Savings: You will save up to $50 annually on your energy costs by closing your closets.

3. Choose one neutral trim paint

When you are renovating or updating your home, try going with one primary neutral color for your trim throughout your house. This can save you a lot of money over choosing different colors for each room.

Cost: The cost will be the cost of the neutral paint you choose.
Savings: You will save as much as $50 if you are painting three rooms.

4. Sign up for your utility’s time-of-use plan

Check with your local utility provider and ask if they offer discount plans in exchange for your reducing your use of electricity during peak demand periods. Many power companies offer these plans.

Cost: You might have to set the thermostat higher or lower during certain times and complete tasks requiring electrical use at night.
Savings: Depending on the time of the year, these plans may offer you savings of as much as between $25 and $50 each month.

5. Replace central air-conditioning filters

During the summer, replace your air-conditioning filters every month. This will help your central air unit to function more efficiently while also reducing the amount of work the blower motor has to do.

Cost: It will cost you around $11 to purchase three filters.
Savings: Over the summer, you will save around $40 from your cooling costs.

6. Install dimmer switches and use energy-efficient halogen bulbs

Using dimmer switches along with halogen bulbs can save you money while also reducing your carbon footprint.

Cost: You can purchase dimmer switches for around $10 for each switch at many home improvement stores. Halogen bulbs will cost you around $5 apiece.
Savings: Over a three-year period, you will reap savings of around $20 per fixture. You’ll also save money spent on light bulbs, as halogen bulbs outlast incandescent bulbs.

7. Install a ceiling fan

Ceiling fans can help you reduce your heating and cooling bills. When it is cold outside, you can spin the fan clockwise at the lowest speed. This helps to bring down the warmth that naturally rises upward. During the summer, changing the direction will make you feel cooler so you don’t need to set the thermostat as low as you might otherwise.

Cost: You can expect to spend about $200 for a new ceiling fan.
Savings: Your savings for heating and cooling will be up to $100 each year.

8. Install a shower timer

If you have children, installing a time for the shower will help keep your water and gas or electricity bills in check. You can limit their shower times to 5, 8 or 11 minutes.

Cost: You can purchase a shower timer for around $115.
Savings: You could save up to $200 a year.

9. Do your own energy audit

You can purchase a thermal leak detector and then use it to find areas in which your insulation is weak, such as around electrical switch plates, outlet covers and around your doors and windows. Then, you can install foam gaskets or weather stripping in the areas in which you have energy leaks.

Cost: Leak detectors cost around $40.
Savings: By blocking areas where you are leaking heat or air, you can save more than $160 every year.

10. Schedule a furnace or boiler tune-up

To increase the efficiency of your furnace, hire a professional each year to conduct maintenance on your furnace.

Cost: This will cost between $100 to $150.
Savings: You will save about $200 annually by doing this.

If you are getting ready to start a home renovation or remodeling project, get the help of our professional team. To schedule a consultation, contact us today by stopping by or calling us.

home improvement

7 Things To Keep In Mind Before Your Renovation

When you are preparing to renovate a room or your home, there are a number of things you should think about before starting it. Even if you plan to use professionals for the job, planning ahead can help the project go more smoothly.

Here are seven things you need to consider before embarking on your home renovation project.

Figure Out What Your Goals Are and What Inspires You

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Jan 29, 2016 at 6:00am PST

You should start by thinking about what your goals are for your renovation. Picture the completed renovation project in your mind, and determine what it is you are wanting to achieve.

You should also think about what inspires you and then allow those inspirations and goals to guide the project.

Think About Your Space and Its Features

The next thing you should consider is the space you’ll be renovating and any significant features that make it unique. You can then incorporate those features into your overall design plan.

You should think about incorporating such things as light streaming in through a window or a beautiful view of your lawn to maximize the project’s potential.

Think About Your Budget

Obviously, thinking about the amount you plan to spend on your renovation is important. It is equally important for you to think about the time you plan to budget for the project as well. You will need to clearly communicate both to the professionals who will be helping you.

You should have a conversation about both what you need out of the renovation as well as what you want. Then, you can always move funds from one area of the project to another if necessary.

Finishes

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Jan 14, 2016 at 7:01am PST

Finishes can add that extra touch to really show your personality in your renovation. If you plan to get rid of carpeting and install wood or other flooring, you’ll want to think about the look you are wanting to achieve.

For wood flooring, you’ll want to decide whether you want to purchase and install flooring that has already been prefinished or if you will instead have your team finish it after it’s installed in your home. If you plan to finish it after its installed, remember it will take about a week before it can stand up to traffic, meaning it might slow down your renovation project.

For tile or natural stone floors, you’ll want to decide the type of material you want to use, its finish and its color.

Furnishings

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Nov 25, 2015 at 5:01am PST

If you are replacing your furniture items, it’s best to choose pieces that are durable and classic so they will stand up to the test of time. It’s best to not buy trendy items, as they will go out of style. You can instead be trendy with the accessories you choose if you want to make a statement.

Think about using pictures, fine cloth, cushions and other such items to complement the look you are wanting to achieve.

If you choose to purchase a very expensive item, you can choose to make it the focus piece of your room. For example, choosing a beautiful clawfoot tub for your bathroom will draw the eye, as will going with delicately-veined and gleaming marble countertops or floors.

Think About Your Personal Privacy

When scheduling your project, you need to think about the times when you will want some privacy for taking showers, getting ready for work and other things. You might want to place room dividers in your home so you can have some time to yourself even when the workers are there.

If your master bathroom is being renovated, make certain to move the items you will need to your guest bathroom for the renovation period.

Gather Your Important Items Together

Gathering the things you use the most together can help significantly. During a renovation project, it may seem very difficult to find the things you need when you need them. Set up an area you can use for your keys, chargers, cell phones, mail and other such items so you can find them easily.

When you are ready to start your renovation project, contact us today. Our professional designers will be happy to schedule an appointment so we can help you plan a beautiful new space for your home.

home improvement Kitchen Remodeling

Popular Natural Stone Countertop Finishes

After you have decided to install natural stone countertops, selecting the type of finish you want for them is just as important as the type of stone you’ve chosen.

The different types of finish give different appearances, changing and transforming your room in different ways.

It is important for you to know how each different finish feels and looks as well as how they will complement your decor while changing the appearance of your natural stone.

Polished Finishes

When the majority of people think about natural stone countertops made out of marble or granite, they think of a highly polished, shiny, mirror-like surface. A polished finish provides that high-gloss appearance, illuminating the stone’s hue and natural variations.

Antiqued/Brushed Finishes

When you see new natural stone countertops that appear as if they have natural wear on their surfaces, they have an antiqued or brushed finish.

These counters have a textured feel to them but are still just as stain-resistant as polished or honed finishes when you have them professionally sealed.

Flamed Finishes

Using the application of intense heat, we can provide flamed finishes if you’d like. A flamed finish results in a rougher texture, and it is most frequently chosen for outdoor projects.

Flamed finishes provide very strong exterior protection to the natural stone, making them ideal for outdoors because they are better able to withstand weather.

Honed Finishes

Honed finishes give the smoothness of polished finishes but are softer and less shiny. This gives them an appearance that is more informal and traditional. The matte appearance of a honed finish isn’t as glossy as a polished one.

Leathered Finishes

A leathered finish provides yet another appearance and feel to your countertops. They combine the feel of a brushed finish with the look of a honed finish. They are smooth in texture.

Whether your chosen stone can be honed or polished will depend on what type it is. Not all are able to be finished in those ways. It is important for you to take your time when selecting your finish. After the finish you have chosen is applied, it can be very expensive to change it later.

To see the different types of natural stones we have for your countertops as well as the different finishes, stop by our showroom today. You can also reach us by calling (908) 782-7773 or completing our contact form, and we’ll be happy to answer your questions and schedule a consultation.

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Will the Color Of Your Countertop Affect How You Feel?

The colors you choose for your home’s interior reflect your tastes, who you are and your personality. While many people don’t spend much time thinking about color choices for rooms, the ones that are chosen subtly affect all of us on a daily basis, even having the ability to influence the way we feel and think.

The way in which color affects people partly depends on the climate, their ethnicity, gender and age. Despite these basic differences, certain color groups elicit similar reactions from a majority of people. When you are preparing to renovate your kitchen or bathroom, considering the color of your countertops, backsplash, flooring and walls are thus very important.

Calming Blue Countertops

The color blue has been shown to lower blood pressure, heart rate and respiration. It is thus considered to be a color choice that aids relaxation and serenity. Because pastel blue may actually appear chilly, you might want to choose a warmer hue of blue for your countertops. This might include turquoise, periwinkle or other brighter shades.

When it is used as the primary color in your kitchen, it will have a calming effect. However, you should avoid using dark blue shades as your main room color, as darker blues have been shown to make people feel sad.

Raising Intensity With Red

Red is the color that is known to bring energy to your room, to you and to your guests. When people see red, their adrenaline, heart rate, respiration and blood pressure all increase.

Red is a great choice for your renovation project if your aim is to bring excitement to your room. Using red in a gathering place like your kitchen can bring people together and encourage conversation.

Relieve Stress With Green

Green is a terrific choice for kitchen countertops. The color of natural foliage, green helps to refresh you while it also relieves stress you might feel.

Green also works very well when combined with other earth tones.

Classic White

Delicate, elegant and classic, white is a beautiful choice for your kitchen countertops. White countertops help to give the illusion that your kitchen has more space.

It also helps your room to have a clean appearance, and it works well when you combine it with bolder colors on your walls or furniture.

Sophisticated Black

Sophisticated, powerful and formal, black countertops can help you make a statement.

It also looks terrific when you choose black countertops and a white natural stone backsplash and flooring, such as marble or granite.

The Subtle Statement Of Neutral

Neutral colors draw guests in and help make them feel comfortable. People react to rooms that use neutral color palettes by feeling invited. They are also very versatile, allowing you good variety in the overall design of your room.

You can use other colors to create contrasts for increased visual interest along with your neutral colors.

At Flemington Granite, our design professionals will be happy to show you our available color and stone options for your kitchen or bathroom renovation project. We invite you to stop by our showroom or give us a call today at (908) 782-7773.

home improvement Kitchen Design Kitchen Planning

Why Are Quartz Countertops so Popular?

In the last few years, customers have increasingly been turning to engineered stone countertops made from quartz over other high-quality countertop choices. Well-designed new homes now frequently feature quartz countertops, and homeowners are also increasingly choosing them for their kitchen and bathroom remodeling projects.

There are several reasons that quartz countertops are now in high demand and will likely become even more popular.

Durability

Quartz countertops are manufactured and engineered using some of the toughest and most impenetrable minerals available in the world instead of being mined from quarries like other natural stones. The manufacturing process also includes the addition of polyester resins to provide even greater toughness.

The engineering and manufacturing process used in the creation of quartz countertops make them the most durable when compared with natural stone countertops. Other advantages of quartz countertops are that they are non-porous, which helps to prevent stains. They are also resistant to scratching and are able to stand up to vigorous cooking using knives and children spilling drinks on them.

Uniformity

While natural stone has an appearance that is non-uniform with natural and visible variations, quartz has a design consistency since it is engineered. The uniformity of design helps people to match the chosen color and style of their countertops with their cabinets, tile and paint.

It also saves time for the manufacturer as they do not need to carefully preselect where to cut slabs in order to make the natural variations in natural stone more appealing to the customer.

Maintenance

The non-porous nature of engineered quartz countertops makes it unnecessary to later have to have a professional reseal them, which is unlike the nature of natural stone counters made of marble, granite, soapstone and others.

Similarly, quartz stands up to cleaning with the harsher chemicals, allowing customers to easily use the cleaning products they have on hand without worrying about causing damage.

Advances

Previously, critics of quartz countertops didn’t like the available designs and patterns because they simply didn’t provide the luxurious appearance that marble or granite countertops did. Advances in the engineering and manufacturing of quartz countertops have now addressed those complaints.

Top quartz manufacturers are now using a polishing process that can so effectively mimic the appearance of marble or granite that most people can’t tell the counters are not made of natural stone. Before, manufacturers were only able to polish the engineered quartz, but they now are able to offer sand-blasted, embossed or honed finishes as well.

The developments and advances that have been made in the engineering of quartz have made quartz one of the top choices for the most modern bathroom and kitchen remodeling projects.

Manufacturers

In order to provide you with the best results for your quartz countertops, we carry the products offered by the top quartz manufacturers in the industry. The manufacturers that we work with in order to provide you the top-of-the-line and most beautiful results possible include Silestone, Caesarstone, Cambria and PentalQartz.

If you are ready to update your kitchen, we are ready and eager to help you. For your free consultation about your own renovation and remodeling project, contact us today. The professional design team at Flemington Granite represents the top talent in the industry, and we have a deep passion for transforming our customers’ kitchens.

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Solutions for Countertop Etching, Scratches, Chips & Cracks Revealed!

If your countertop has taken on some wear and tear, there might be a good solution to improve the appearance and durability without going through the trouble of replacement. Minor issues like removing stains and making other damage less noticeable is easy with the right information, but keep in mind that hiring a professional is always a good solution.

If the issues are simple enough, you might feel confident handling the job yourself with a do-it-yourself remedy.

Stains and Etching

Staining to marble or any natural stone can happen, but is rarely permanent. It’s not unusual for someone to confuse staining with more common etching. This usually occurs because the homeowner simply was never educated about the properties of marble, marble maintenance and protection or how to clean marble the right way. If you have dull spots or a glass ring appearance from exposure to acidic liquids or cleaners, you may have etching. The best solution for etch marks depends on the type of surface finish: polished, honed, etc.

There are products that remove etching on polished marble, but a honed surface has to be restored professionally. Sealed granite should have plenty of protection against stains, but any discoloration can be removed with mild dish detergent or a paste made from baking soda. Since soapstone and quartz are non-porous, the regular upkeep and maintenance should be very easy.

Chips, Pits, Scratches, and Cracks

Blemishes that are small and shallow are much easier to repair regardless of your countertop material. Marble paste is great for restoring the polished look if surface scratches are noticeable, but deep separations need to be filled by a marble repair professional.

Harder surfaces, like granite, are more susceptible to actual cracks than scratches because all natural stones can fracture from impact. If you have a broken edge or a deep pit, it might seem like the best thing to do is replace the entire countertop. It’s best to get a professional opinion to decide if a repair is possible depending on the size and severity of the damage.

A little chip or minor scratches in your countertop might not seem too bothersome to overlook. However, if you feel that the damage is severe and unsightly, you should give us a call at Flemington Granite. We are experienced with all types of countertop materials and want to help you with repairs if possible. If your surface damage is too severe to fix, we also have plenty of new countertop slabs available in the showroom.

Countertop home improvement Maintenance

Understanding The Background Of Soapstone Countertops

Selecting a countertop to install is not as simple as choosing the one that looks the prettiest. Soapstone countertops are a great choice if you value very low maintenance, beauty, and the durability to withstand all types of use.

What exactly is soapstone?

Coming from natural quarries, the soapy metamorphic rock has a distinct presence of talc. Soapstone Slabs that have a lower talc content are going to make better countertops because they are the most durable. A higher talc content is best for artistic use because it’s very soft and easy to carve.

Soapstone is not going to be as strong as marble or granite, but it’s easy to cut and install. Since the slabs are typically smaller when quarried, it might be necessary to match several pieces for a single countertop.

Why is soapstone such a great countertop material?

Unlike a lot of other popular countertops, soapstone is actually a heat conductor that can withstand direct exposure to a hot pan.

It is not going to etch from acids like harsh cleansers or lemon juice, so it’s great in a kitchen. The nonporous surface is so dense that it is not going to stain, even if dark liquids are not cleaned immediately.

Is sealing necessary for soapstone countertops?

No protection is necessary to keep soapstone looking as perfect as the day it was installed. It actually offers a bit of an environmental advantage because no chemicals are needed for fabrication or care.

What colors are available in soapstone?

All of the soapstone slabs are some shade of gray, but they can feature unique undertones of green or blue.

Every quarry is going to offer a unique material that might have some degree of veining.

What is required for soapstone cleaning and maintenance?

As mentioned, the majority of people that choose soapstone are looking for little to no maintenance. Soapstone resists bacteria and it’s non-absorbent so cleaning rarely requires anything more than soap and water.

If the slab is on the softer side, it is a good idea to add a layer of protection with a cutting board when preparing food. If scratches do show, it is easy to eliminate on your own by buffing with a sandpaper.

Countertop Maintenance

What exactly is marble?

The unique marble slabs are actually a porous metamorphic stone that becomes more dense from the heat and pressure in nature. Mineral deposits take on a unique veining pattern throughout each piece, making every product a genuine one-of-a-kind.

Due to the calcium carbonate element, it is very sensitive to acid and will etch from exposure. However, it does have an advantage with the strength, heat resistance, and natural durability against dents and chips.

Which colors are available in marble?

Physical appearance is the biggest advantage to marble, with guess in a wide array of colors. Neutral gray, white, and black are popular marble slab colors and are great for a more classic style, but marble countertop colors can also be found in pink, green, or yellow.

The veining is natural and may be more prominent and contrasting in some slabs. White is one of the top choices for countertop installations because it hides etching, adapts easily to surrounding decor, and it opens up any space with the brighter shade.

What kinds of finishes are available for marble?

• Polished – A high-gloss surface is created through a buffing and grinding process that enhances the intricate details of the slab. Although it is the most susceptible to damage from acidic substances, it is the least porous option.
• Honed/Matte – The process of sanding the surface makes the surface appear more smooth so that it does not show obvious flaws. It does make the surface more susceptible to stains because the pores are opened up, and the color will be slightly muted.
• Leather – Dark marbles are the most common option when choosing to give the slab a leather-like texture. It isn’t reflective but it will have a soft sheen to conceal imperfections like fingerprints.

Should marble be sealed?

Considering the vulnerability to acids and general porousness of the marble, you should consider sealing absolutely necessary. A topical sealant is going to provide a moderate level of protection, but can be damaged by heat and scratches.

If your marble is used in a kitchen application, it is smart to use a penetrating sealant to increase stain resistance. It might not protect against all acidic liquids, but it does add some degree of resistance against water and dark liquids.

What are the best cleaning and care practices for marble countertops?

Maintenance is easy if you know the basics of taking care of your marble, such as always using a cutting board. With such a fragile stone, do not use any acidic or abrasive cleaners that could cause damage.

Use mild soap and warm water for daily cleaning, and always wipe up spills the moment that they happen to avoid letting color soak in. Always have your countertop sealed professionally once a year, or more frequently if needed.

home improvement

Make Your Home More Comfortable With These 7 Tips

Home is the one place that most of us go to really unwind and relax in total comfort. Whether you work from home, or are stuck in an office all day waiting for the chance to relax, the level of comfort in the home should be a major priority.

If your home seems less than cozy, there are easy ways to make it seem more like a nice getaway. Your family deserves to feel at ease and relieved at home, and this is possible with our small investment ideas.

Circulate Fresh Air

Stale air is one of the worst things to deal with when all you want to do is get comfortable.

A clean supply of oxygen improves alertness, eases breathing, and enhances the feel of each room. Devices that control humidity and clean the air are the go-to investment for fixing this issue.

Window Upgrades

Every home has windows, but there are plenty of ways to make them more functional for your home environment.

One way is the technique of glazing windows which effectively dampens outdoor sound that might be bothersome. Upgrading to larger windows also add another light source to make the rooms more open and bright.

Improved Lighting

If natural light is not economically possible, make sure that you have enough artificial fixtures in place.

Different light sources help to set the right mood for relaxing or entertaining in the home. Make sure that it provides a good balance between dreary and too bright.

Prioritize the Flooring

As much as we walk across the floors at home every single day, it seems to get overlooked in terms of comfort. Hardwood looks nice and it’s easy to maintain, but but you may want to consider other types of flooring. Stylish area rugs are a smart way to make your steps more enjoyable.

If you want to go even further, radiant floor heating is an exceptional way to keep from getting chilly feet in the morning.

Adopt a Pet

Animals are a very gratifying addition to any family, and they are sure to make the home feel more welcoming. The unconditional love and affection of a cat, dog, or more exotic pet is going to improve your bad days and make the good ones even more satisfying.

Embrace the Convenience of Technology

There are electronic solutions for just about any comfort need that you have at home. Control temperature, lighting, and the television without ever getting out of your comfortable spot on the couch.

Add Live Plants

Real plants look great and offer plenty of health benefits that your entire family can appreciate. Plants purify the air, prevent allergies, and decrease blood pressure without requiring a significant investment.

home improvement

Need More Inspiration? Use Pinterest and Instagram For Ideas

The social media experience has truly changed the way that we find new inspiration. It’s easy to get caught up browsing Instagram and Pinterest for hours at a time, but these outlets are a great place to find new design ideas around the house.

Using a simple hashtag can return thousands of results relevant to your interests from professionals and amateur artists and stylists. With nothing more than a smart device, you can begin using social media to gather tips from people in all parts of the world.

How Use Pinterest for Design Inspiration:

Visit Flemington Granite’s profile on Pinterest.

• Use the Right Keywords The great thing about using Pinterest is that it’s guided by organization. You can easily create your own categorized boards to fill with ideas that you would like to incorporate into a future project. Search very specific keywords to find design and home improvement boards created by people with similar interests. There are some boards that allow other users to openly contribute and collaborate on a the same project.

• Take Advantage of Guided Search If you have never taken on a home renovation or you don’t really know where you would like to start, the guided search is going to help you tremendously. Begin by picking a search term that will generate some related categories that you can sift through. Tap on any results that grab your interest to start figuring out the right direction to move in. You might even find something completely new and unexpected just by taking the opportunity to see what is out there.

• Go Straight to the Source Smart companies understand the influence that social media marketing has on generating new business. Once you find some great inspiration ideas, you can check out the “pinners” that created the boards to find which companies you would like to follow.

How Use Instagram for Design Inspiration:

A photo posted by flemington granite (@flemingtongranite) on Nov 11, 2015 at 6:20am PST

• Use the Right Hashtags
Social media is a two-way experience where everyone contributes to a large community, with images and videos being the driving force of Instagram. Not only can you get ideas from others, but searchers may find your contributions as their own source of inspiration. Anytime you upload a video tutorial or pictures of a successful design project, use the right hashtags to turn up in the searches. Feel free to include broader terms as well as very specific hashtags to reach the right audience.

• Take Advantage of Search Options
Get right into filtering relevant results by searching hashtags that break down images into categories. If you know what you’re looking for, don’t be afraid to get very specific with the searches. There is also the option to find certain artists, designers, or companies that relate to interior design and home renovations.

• Follow the Source
You might be surprised to see that businesses often put a considerable effort into maintaining a social media presence. Designers, contractors, artists, and manufacturers post as often as daily to help consumers stay up to date with the latest industry trends and techniques.

Even if you do not know where to begin planning a home renovation project, designers using social media can help you get in touch with your own style. Connect with our Instagram and Pinterest accounts to stay up to date with fresh, inspiring design ideas.