Although you want your kitchen counters to look beautiful, their main purpose is as a cooking and preparation surface. One of the reasons many people choose granite is that it is durable and resistant to stains or bacteria. This makes them safer than other types of countertop surfaces. However, there are some precautions you should take when using granite. These tips on what not to place on a granite countertop can keep your counters not only looking beautiful but safe for your family as well.

Spilled Liquids

Although granite is non-porous, spills left on the surface for an extended period can cause staining. Even water that is left to puddle can leave a shadowy spot on the surface. Red wine, coffee or citric juices can also cause stains on granite counters and should be wiped up immediately. You may be tempted to place decorative oil bottles on your counter, but this can lead to damage as well. Oil tends to leak down the bottle and puddle on the surface. This can lead to discoloration of the counter. Store all oils in the cabinet and wipe up any spills quickly.

Cleaning Materials

Cleaners that contain vinegar, lemon juice or ammonia can damage your counters so never use them on granite. The acid in the cleaner could diminish the seal which could lead to damage to the actual stone. Lemon can be very damaging to granite as it contains calcite, so never use lemon-based cleansers on your granite counter and be careful when cooking with lemon. Do not use scouring cleansers on granite as well as they can eat away at the seal leaving the stone unprotected. Only clean granite with mild soap and water. Be sure to rinse the soap from the countertop well or you could develop a buildup that will make your counter look dull.

Cosmetics and Polish

In bathrooms with granite countertops, do not store cosmetics or polish on the surface. If you spill either polish or cosmetics on the counter, wipe them up immediately. Do not use fingernail polish remover on granite as it not only removes the polish but the sealant as well.

Cutting on the Counter

Although you will probably not damage the counter by cutting directly on the surface, you will dull your knives. In addition, cutting meat and vegetables on the same surface is not safe as bacteria from the uncooked raw meat can be transferred to the vegetables that may not be cooked to a temperature high enough to kill the bacteria. Always use a cutting board to not only protect the surface of the counter, but also to keep your knives sharp and your family safe.

Hot Pans

If your granite is thick, you may be able to place a hot pan directly on the surface. However, if the sealant has thinned or if the countertop is not thick, placing a hot pan directly on the surface could result in cracking or a dark spot from scorching. To be safe, always use trivets or hot pads when removing hot pans from the stove.

If you are thinking about adding granite to your home, contact us today to learn more about your options. You can reach us by phone or complete the simple form online to speak to a knowledgeable customer service representative about natural stones that will work for you.

Concrete is growing in popularity as a countertop material as it is extremely durable and adaptable to many different kitchen designs. Before choosing concrete as a countertop option over granite, however, there are advantages and disadvantages for each that you need to understand.

Concrete Countertops

One of the biggest attractions for concrete countertops is that it is easy to perform the installation yourself. It is also more affordable than granite in most cases. Concrete can give your kitchen a rustic, chic look that is difficult to find with granite.

The biggest drawback to concrete, however, is that it is porous. This means that the surface can be damaged more easily than it can with other types of counters and makes it more likely to stain. Placing a hot pan directly from the stove onto concrete will more than likely stain the counter and could actually cause damage. It is also more prone to scratches and you will need to clean it with special cleaners due to its porous nature.

Granite Countertops

There is a reason granite is one of the most popular options for countertops. They are extremely durable and give your room luxurious look. Granite does not stain or erode like cement counters can. It is also non-porous, making it resistant to bacteria and mold growth.

Granite is heat and scratch resistant, allowing you to place hot pans directly on the surface. Granite cannot be installed by someone who is not a professional. It is also more expensive than cement. You cannot use harsh chemicals on granite or they could damage the surface and acidic materials like juice, coffee and red wine can cause stains if they are not wiped up quickly.

Color Options

Concrete offers many different color options as the stone can be tinted to any color you choose. You can also choose to mix broken glass or other materials to create a one-of-a-kind look. Because granite is formed in the Earth, colors are limited to what Mother Nature decides to create. Concrete can also be molded into any shape you want which is especially beneficial if you have an oddly shaped kitchen. Granite is limited in the shapes it can take.

If you are considering natural stone for your home or office, contact us today to learn what the best options for you may be. You can fill out the easy form online or give us a call to speak to one of our knowledgeable representatives.

If you are considering a kitchen remodel, you may be considering granite countertops. Granite is one of the most popular choices in countertops, but there are things you should understand before choosing granite. You want to be sure your cabinets work well with the granite you choose. If you are wondering how to match your granite countertop, these tips can help.

White or Tan Granite Countertop?

Most people believe that it would be easy to match cabinets with white or tan granite. However, granite is rarely ever pure white. In fact, it is usually off-white with flecks or veins of darker colors. Dark cabinets of espresso or black create a contrast, but you may find that too stark. Instead, try to find cabinets that tie into the veining of the granite rather than the background. You may also consider glazing your current cabinets so that they better match white or tan granite.

What Matches Medium to Dark Granite

If you are wondering how to match your granite countertop that is medium to dark, you may want to consider natural wood, like oak. If you already have oak cabinets, consider a granite that is medium-brown with gold or caramel veining. You can also add contrast by choosing granite with very light or very dark veining which work well with hickory or maple cabinets. If you have a lot of natural light in your room, consider black cabinets with granite with dark veining but lighter backgrounds.

Colors That Go Well With Dark to Black Granite

Dark to black granite makes a very bold statement in a room and you want your cabinetry to match that statement. Cherry cabinets actually compliment black granite, creating sophistication and elegance. An espresso finish gives the appearance of black without being exactly like the countertop. Although white is a popular option for dark to black granite, you are not limited to light or white cabinets. Gray is an option, but you can add a whimsical look by adding brightly colored cabinets of blue, green or yellow.

Choosing the right natural stone for your project can be intimidating. If you need assistance or guidance in choosing the right granite or the right cabinetry for your home improvement or commercial project, our knowledgeable, friendly staff can help. They can guide you through the process and help you choose the granite or cabinets that will match your style and chosen décor. Contact us today by phone or by completing the easy form online.

One of the most popular countertops today is granite whether the project is for residential or commercial purposes. Granite is versatile, durable and stunningly beautiful. However, you may be unware of many of the benefits provided by granite. These are just ten important factors to remember when you are choosing countertops.

Beauty and Depth

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There is no question that granite is beautiful and its beauty has been recognized since as far back as ancient Egypt. In addition, granite adds depth to your room due to the way natural light reflects on the surface. Because no two slabs of granite are the same, each section of your countertop can have a different look with a variety of specks, veining and swirling.

Increased Value

Although granite may not add a monetary value to your home, it is very appealing to buyers should you decide to sell. Granite is considered eco-friendly, something many homebuyers are seeking today. Although there are no statistics regarding the return-on-investment (ROI) related to granite countertops, most experts say that granite can help sell your home faster as it will be more appealing than other countertop products.

Durability

Granite countertops are the most durable of any other type of countertop. It is difficult to scratch or chip, unlike other types of stone countertops. Granite should be sealed professionally to extend the life of the countertop.

Anti-bacterial and Stain Resistant

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Because granite is sealed, it is not porous. This means that anything spilled on the counter will not soak into it as it can with other types of countertop. This means granite resists bacteria and dirt better than other countertop surfaces. The sealer also helps the stone resist stains, although any spills should be wiped up quickly as a precaution.

Versatile

Granite can be cut in any shape desired. You can add ovals, squares, arches and curves using granite that may be impossible with other types of material. Granite can be cut in 90 or 45 degree angles and you can even add routered edges for additional decorative touches. In addition, you can mix granite with other types of countertop surfaces if you are on a tight budget. Add granite to your kitchen island and laminate throughout the room or select remnants, mixing them with tile or other surfaces in order to reduce the cost.

Heat Resistant

You can place a pan taken from the stove directly on a granite countertop with no concern about scorching or melting. Roasting pans, toaster ovens, even frying pans can be moved from stove to counter without leaving marks as could happen with other types of countertop.

Earth Friendly

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Because granite is made from natural stone, it is an Earth-friendly option for your countertops. Like gemstones which are not lustrous when they are pulled from the ground, granite is polished to a brilliant sheen, providing a natural look to any kitchen.

Easy to Repair

Unlike other types of stone, granite is easier to repair should it be damaged during regular use. A dropped pan or an errant knife stroke could scratch, chip or crack the granite. A professional granite company can repair the damage with a special compound.

Flat Surface

Bakers understand the need for a flat surface when they are cooking. Rolling out dough or kneading bread is much easier if the surface is smooth and flat. Granite is perfectly smooth and flat, providing the perfect workspace in your kitchen. Because granite is also cool to the touch, making candy and rolling dough goes much more smoothly.

Indoor and Outdoor Use

Although granite looks beautiful inside your home, it is also perfect for an outdoor kitchen or living area. Granite will not suffer damage from rain, snow, ice or extreme heat. It is important to let your retailer know if you will use the granite outdoors, however, as you may need granite of a certain thickness.

Granite is one of the most popular surfaces in countertops today, but it can also be used in floors and wall coverings, something many people may not know. Contact us today to learn more about granite and how it can add elegance to your next project.

Taking on a remodeling project or building a new home are monumental tasks. There are so many decisions to be made, from the type of wall covering you want in your family room to the countertops in your kitchen or bathroom.

Not only are making these decisions difficult, the cost can become extravagant if you don’t watch carefully, especially if you decide to add granite to one of your rooms. One option, however, is to consider granite remnants.

What, Exactly, Are Granite Remnants?

Granite remnants are pieces removed when counter tops or other products created from the stone. When someone purchases granite floors, walls or counters, it must be cut to size. This means that there are often pieces cut that are not used for that project and they are often too small to be used. They may also be oddly shaped and sized or vary in thickness.

The Benefits of Granite Remnants

One of the biggest benefits of using granite remnants is that they cost significantly less than full granite slabs. When a customer chooses granite, they pay for the entire amount ordered, usually by the square inch. When the granite is cut to fit their products, few customers choose to keep the remnants.

Since the remnants were already paid for by that customer, the retailer can resell the remnants at a highly reduced cost. It is possible to find larger remnants that could complete your project, especially if you are adding granite to a smaller kitchen or bathroom.

Ways to Use Your Granite Remnants

There are many ways to incorporate granite remnants in your project. Use it as a backsplash in your bathroom or kitchen. You can also create shelving using granite remnants, adding a unique decorative item to any room. Create cheeseboards, trivets or cutting boards as well. Piece together larger remnants to create a new tabletop for your dining room or living room.

Create coasters, fireplace tiles, book ends or shelves for your living or family room. In your backyard, use soapstone or granite remnants to create stepping stones or a stunning backsplash for your outdoor kitchen. Create a mosaic of tiles for a beautiful piece of art that you can hang inside or out.

Granite remnants are one of the best ways to add granite to your home improvement project. If you are remodeling a small kitchen or bathroom, you may find remnants large enough for your whole project. You can also add tile and other stone to remnants to create a unique, one-of-a-kind countertop in your home or office.

The forces of nature that create the unique color combinations found in granite are amazing. Plates of Earth press together to mix minerals with rock to create some of the most stunning and beautiful natural works of art available. But, have you ever wondered, “Where does granite come from?”

Imported Granite

Approximately 90 percent of the granite imported into the United States comes from Brazil while Italy, Spain, China and India also have a large granite trade. Marble, however, is mostly imported from Italy, although some does originate in Spain and China. In fact, China exports brown marble that has become popular in the United States.

How Granite is Mined

Granite is found in huge deposits in the ground. Because blasting would shatter the granite, blocks are removed using drilling or jet piercing methods. In drilling, vertical holes are drilled about one-inch apart with the granite removed by secondary drilling.

In jet piercing, a flame of up to 4,000 degrees is directed at the granite at high velocity which causes a flaking action. As the flame moves back and forth, channels are created in the granite. Granite is very similar to wood as it has grains that allow it to be split in one direction while other directions require cutting.

Travel Time

It takes approximately 30 days for granite to go from the quarry to the wholesaler. The first step is to extract the granite from the landscape and then ship the blocks for production.

Once the granite arrives at the manufacturer, it takes between 24 and 48 hours to slice the block into individual slabs using a tool known as a gang saw. For the next two days, resin is applied to protect the surface and it is cured in an oven. Each piece is photographed before being shipped to retailers. In order to protect the granite, it is often wrapped in adhesive covering, especially those with high-gloss finishes, like onyx.

The question “where does granite come from” is a common one among homeowners. Many wonder how the huge rocks removed from a quarry can result in such stunning, sophisticated countertops and floors.

If you want to know more about granite and the products available for your new home or remodeling project, contact us today by phone or online. Our friendly customer service staff can answer your question and guide you to the perfect products for your project.

White cabinets have grown in popularity over the past few years due to their versatility and simplicity. White cabinets work well in a farmhouse-style kitchen or one with a gleaming, contemporary look. They look especially stunning with granite countertops. However, when you decide to add white cabinets to your kitchen, you may wonder what the best granite colors for white cabinets may be.

Overall Theme and Color Palette

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The first step in determining what the best granite colors for white cabinets may be is to decide what your overall color palette and kitchen design will be. If you want a modern look with just splashes of color, you will want to lean toward one type of granite while if you would prefer a country, relaxed theme, a different type of granite may be more appropriate. Once you have determine the overall theme, it will be much easier to find a granite that fits with your white cabinets and your décor.

Lighter Colors and Neutrals

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Countertops with yellows tend to give a warmer feel in your kitchen or bathroom than those with white or gray undertones. If you are leaning toward a country look, granite with yellow undertones may be the best option, while a contemporary look may require you to choose a countertop with gray undertones. If you prefer something more neutral, you will want to look at beige or light brown undertones, which provides both a warm and cool feel.

Darker Contrasts

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If you prefer darker colors that will contrast with the stark white of your cabinets, choose granite with flecks of burnt orange, deep green or dark gray. This allows you to add splashes of those colors throughout your room to tie it all together. You can also choose sleek, black countertops that will deeply contrast the white of your cabinets. Black will give your kitchen a very contemporary feel, so keep that in mind when you are determining your theme as well.

Choosing new countertops can be a fun and exciting activity. If you are remodeling your kitchen or building a new home, and need to know the best granite colors for white cabinets, contact us by phone or online today. Our friendly, knowledgeable customer service staff will guide you through the process, work with you to identify your theme and help you choose the perfect granite countertops for your project.

Although granite has become a very popular countertop and flooring option, it has been used for centuries for multiple purposes. The ancient Egyptians used granite extensively. In fact, the famous Pharaoh was built using granite blocks which were tied together so tightly you could not slip a piece of paper between them.

The Pharaoh was not the only monument or statue created from granite over centuries. It may surprise you to learn that some of the most famous are granite monuments.

Amenhotep III

By אליבאבא (Own work), CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

The red granite statue of Amenhotep II was discovered in Egypt in the temple of Mut at Karnak in 1817. It is believed the statue dates back as far as 1370 BC and was originally created to honor King Amenhotep III. It was one of many statues thought to have been erected in his honor in Thebes.

Only one arm and the head have survived which are displayed in the British Museum in London.

Avukana Buddha Statue

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Standing at just over 40 feet tall outside of Kekirawa in Sri Lanka, the Avukana Buddhist statue is carved into a granite rock face. It faces the Kekirawa reservoir, representing the Gandhara and the Amaravati school of art.

Buddha wears a tight-fitted robe and it is believed the statue was built in the 5th century for King Dhatusena, although there is some speculation it was carved for personal reasons by an artist named Barana.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial Fountain

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Located in Hyde Park in London, the fountain dedicated to the memory of Princess Diana was created from 545 pieces of Cornish granite. Each of the pieces was shaped using computer technology and then put together traditionally. It is designed to reflect the life of the princess who died in a car accident in 1997.

The water flows in two directions from the highest point of the fountain, cascading and ending in a serene pool at the bottom. More than one million visitors cross the three bridges that lead to the fountain each year.

Mahabalipuram

By Yoga Balaji – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

Mahabalipuram, India, is a port town that has been named a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Heritage Site due to its unique architecture and carvings.

Many of the carvings and historical monuments were created from granite. Some of the sanctuaries in the town date back to the 7th and 8th centuries with carvings of warriors, kings and animals in the pyramid-shaped temples.

Mount Rushmore National Monument

By Dean Franklin – 06.04.03 Mount Rushmore Monument. (Resized by User:ComputerHotline, 20:17, 12. Mai 2007.), CC BY 2.0, Link

Four United States Presidents – Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt and George Washington – are carved into the side of Mount Rushmore in a huge granite deposit.

Originally, famous people from the west were supposed to be carved in the granite in order to promote South Dakota. Sculptor Gutzon Borglum insisted that the granite monuments should honor national leaders. The location was chosen due to the hardness of the granite.

Signers Monument

By Akhenaton06 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link

The Signers Monument in Augusta, Georgia, is dedicated to the three signers of the Declaration of Independence from Georgia.

The 50-foot granite obelisk marks the graves of George Walton and Lyman Hall, but also recognizes Button Gwinnett whose grave could not be located. The monument was dedicated in 1848.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

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One of the most well-known granite memorials, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC. The wall was made possible by private donations and families who wanted a way to honor those lost in the conflict.

It is created from polished black Indian granite which was sandblasted with the more than 58,000 names of veterans who died or are still missing in action. The memorial was dedicated in 1982 and draws millions of visitors each year.

Because granite is an igneous rock that is common in construction due to its hard properties, it is also the perfect choice for lasting granite memorials and statues. Considering how long many of these famous memorials and statues have existed, it is easy to see why granite is one of the most durable options for your kitchen or bathroom project.

Contact us today to learn more about granite options.