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Top 5 Low Maintenance Countertop Surface Options

Due to the fairly low cost, they can be replaced without great expense. In addition, recycled glass countertops are very attractive, while being resistant to staining and heat. A solid surface countertop offers worry-free upkeep and is quickly cleaned with soap and water. If lightly scratched, since the pigment goes through the entire countertop, the scratch can be sanded out and the appearance restored. These countertops work very well in the kitchen or bath since they won’t be stained by food, juice, facial cleansers, etc. Take a look at countertop galleries online to compare the style and appearance of these different worry free materials. Here is a list of the top 5 low maintenance countertop surface options along with the price range for each one. It is affordable, comes in hundreds of colors and patterns and is very low-maintenance. The kitchen or bath countertop is made from crushed glass embedded in clear resin – the same type of resin that is used to produce solid surface counters. These low-maintenance resin countertop products are resistant to staining, and epoxy and acrylic resin countertops are heat and impact resistant too. No sealing or refinishing is ever required, and cleaning is easy with mild soap products. They are heat resistant to stand up to hot pots and pans or hot hair tools in the bathroom. Also called engineered stone, it makes a very durable, long-lasting bath or kitchen countertop.

Marble Countertop by richstonegranite.com

Like if you are an expert cook, or is particular when it comes to cooking spaces, or your kitchen is socially inclined to gathering and parties – these are just some of the things that you should be in view of when evaluation the countertop material that fits your cooking lifestyle. It also offers a wide range of patterns and colors that resemble the marble and granite materials. With the right matte finish and right polish and care this material can easily ditch stubborn stains once sealed properly. On the other hand, the marble and limestones are undeniably the classics for its natural look and great resistance to heat too. It’s pleasing to the eye, plus, ground glass can really may a difference within your interiors. It offers a wide range of patterns and colors and its aftermath is so sleek you can barely see the edges and joints.

All About Marble Countertops | Duration 2 Minutes 49 Seconds It is true that you cannot just find the perfect space for you, especially if you are renting it. If you are up for a major makeover and your landlord is not so strict when it comes to “do whatever you wish” option, then you can easily walk your way to transforming your apartment into a place many will fall in love with. It’s a kit that can transform an old countertop into a granite-looking top. It will surely make your counter radiate into something really different. It’s paint, but a special one and only those with steady hands can nail it. Well, if you are the spontaneous type who loves trying new things, you can always opt for something different and new. Besides, if you change your mind, you can always replace it with something else. The quick-setting concrete material can perfectly give your kitchen a different look. If you are just renting a small apartment or you prefer to become a minimalist then there is nothing much to cover when it comes to your kitchen counter area. Besides, whatever change you will be applying to your rented space can add value to in the future so it is a win-win situation. This time, you wanted to try the marble material in your other additional kitchen countertop and wanted to make sure that you are choosing the right countertop material. But just like what they say “beauty has its price ” because this stone material can be really costly and maintenance can also add a load on you. The marble countertop material can instantly make heads turn and admire that glorious stone you got there. There is also a possibility that you can find an affordable alternative but you won’t be able to enjoy the grandeur of its smoothness and glow. Just imagine how genuine the glamour of nature will be within your home. Weight can really be an issue and you have to be prepared for it because this beaut can be crazy heavy. Spills and leaks can easily penetrate into the marble and turn into stains, although there are ways to get rid of them, still being vulnerable to stain is a little turn-off, don’t you think? As much as you love to decorate your living room, bedroom, and kitchen, there are some neglected areas that also need your attention and one of them is your – bathroom. You have to think of your vanity top as a bedside table or console table because that would give you a better idea of what you should be having in your bathroom surface. Place glass jars or stylish containers where you can put your daily items like your perfumes and medication/vitamins box. Liquid hand soaps can be placed in decorative bottles if they are not packed in pretty containers. The little things in your bathroom can already make a visual statement without you knowing it like hand towels, soaps in different forms, flower pots, and your lighting. If your bathroom has space, add shelves that will serve as an accessible storage area for your bathroom essentials and can also show-off a style using decorative baskets or containers. Proper shelving can also serve as a space for artworks that can be your bathrooms focal point. Admit it, but that back part of your toilet is a “missed” spot and it happens to a lot of bathrooms. You can also use a nice tray for your aroma candles to add mood to your bath area. If makeup is considered as part of your everyday “must haves” then have a stylish cosmetic organizer can hold all of your cosmetics of different shapes and sizes. Transferring your mouthwash into a fashionable bottle and a shot glass beside it can really be glamorous. You can use vintage boxes of different sizes or a dessert glass to expose your stylish baubles. Using a tray or a weaved basket, roll your towels tightly and stack them inside the container. Your vanity top is your important counter for everything that you need in your commode so make sure that your supplies are completely organized in a fashionable way. If your kitchen is old and dull, you might need to consider in doing a kitchen makeover. There are a lot of things that you need to think about when you are remodeling your kitchen. List down all of the things that you need so that it will be easier for you to plot out on what will happen to your kitchen. This is to ensure that you will be able to provide enough funds to make your project a success. And you are the magician who will be working in the kitchen. Working in a kitchen of your dreams will make your magic even look good and taste good. You want your food to look good and presentable to anyone who looks at it. It inspires you to make good food and enlighten your mood for cooking. The architect will be the one who will also hire the contractors that will work on with the remodeling of your kitchen. Of course, just like how you consider other household items there are some criteria that you should consider to make sure that what you are getting or will be getting is exactly what you need and what you want. While scratches, cuts, and heat cannot harm the granite surface as well. Just like the quartz entrust the resealing to a professional. Visible scratches can easily be repaired through mineral oil and sanding. They can also get damaged by heat and stains cannot be washed off instantly. Even stains and heat could no longer penetrate into the laminate material. It has also high resistance to stains, scratches, heat, and cuts. It can also resist heat and stains while scratches can easily be fixed. You don’t need to spend so much, you just have to invest in the right materials that can serve your household for many years. And it’s not just that, disguising the kitchen area is also a challenge. Like in the kitchen where it could have a granite, marble, or quartz worktops that have been through a number of repairs too. This is why you are giving your rented kitchen top a life-changing makeover. If you don’t know what to do with your stained and filthy-looking kitchen countertop the best option to cover those unwanted sightings permanently is to paint them black. Using a contact paper is your other option in covering that aging counter, especially if you cannot convince your landlord that you need a kitchen renovation. If you have never seen yourself painting and neither trust yourself doing it, then the granite paper can save you. The contact paper comes in various patterns and shades so if you wanted to go all out, do not hesitate to show your style. Expect to save a budget for this because it can be a bit pricey, but is a quick fix solution to your old-looking tile countertop. Therefore, an oversized cutting board that is beautifully crafted is enough to cover the unpleasant looking counter. Of course, always inform your landlord about it or if you don’t need their approval then do what you wish. When it comes to its appearance, the marble is distinctly a model of grandiosity and sophistication. On the other hand, if you wanted to truly give your household a makeover that is indeed worth every penny then the marble might be your best choice. It’s obviously noticeable wherever you place it like in the bathroom, kitchen, room, or even as your living room shelf. Since the marble is so popular, you can easily find them anywhere you may be with a multitude of styles and prices. Because if you really wanted an ultimate countertop experience, you must be willing to invest. The main reason why you had a countertop renovation is for you to be able to use a sturdier and better-looking work-top, but with the marble material perhaps you might be extra careful in using them. Its versatility is of great advantage as a decorative floor, walls, ceilings, and fireplace wall pieces. For as long as you know how to maintain it, trust that it can last long enough. You may have heard that granite countertops are also great for bathrooms and not just for kitchens, yet the challenge is – what should you be putting on your bathroom counters? They all equally require the same attention, detail, and style. Arrange the bottles in various heights and place a small flower pot or small indoor plants to give freshness to the room. It’s best to keep the shelves open to easily arrange things and spot what else is missing. If additional shelves fit, install it and use it as an area of your room spray, toiletries, and extra tissue rolls. While you can make use of a plain or decorative glass for your makeup brushes. The tiny essentials like cotton balls, cotton swabs, and makeup sponge balls can easily be misplaced, so to keep them accessible use stackable boxes or glass jars and make them look like a decorative piece. You can also place them on a chic tray together with your oral hygiene essentials to make it more organized in a stylish way. Jewelry and accessories can help you make a personal statement so placing them on your bathroom countertop as a décor at the same time is a great idea. Place them on top of your counter beside the soap and faucet area for your guests’ easy access to it and to obviously show their purpose. You can replace that old countertop of yours to a new quartz countertop. Here are some tips on what you need to consider before, during, and after remodeling your kitchen. You need to think about the plumbings and the materials that you will be using. There are different kinds of lighting for you to choose from. And also the will be able to give the right measurements and make everything balanced. Home renovation is one of the best projects that you can do for yourself. And if you want to have a stylish countertop, you can choose different kinds of stones as the main material.

Measuring And Drawing For Your Kitchen Countertop | Marble.Com | Duration 1 Minutes 30 Seconds You will then enjoy your life in the kitchen cooking and baking for your family.

15 Favorite Kitchen Countertop Materials by marble.com

The perfect countertop should look great and be functional at the same time. It is one of the most practical countertop materials, due to the low maintenance and high durability. Its other applications include backsplashes, shower walls, and sinks. Granite is resistant to heat and scratches, and comes in hundreds of unique colors and patterns. Taking this simple precautionary step can prevent stains and help maintain the stone’s finish. Granite can be consistent in pattern, or have a veins and swirls. Although you can cut directly on the granite surface, it’s not a recommended practice as it will dull the blade of the knifes. Acidic substances, such as citrus juices, wine or milk, spilled on the stone should be cleaned immediately to avoid etching. Polished marble is glossy and more resistant to staining than honed marble. Most quartzite countertops will have a sparkling surface when light is reflected of its surface due to quartz crystals in the stone. The stone is fairly light and may include faint rosy or blueish hues. Quartzite use as a countertop material is relatively new, however it’s quickly taking over the market as an alternative to marble. It’s important to seal the stone on regular basis to maintains is natural beauty. Butcher block countertops aren’t pretentious, and they fit nicely into any home, from cottages or sprawling villas. Butcher block can have a rough working surface or a polished finish. You’ll have a wide range of countertop choices if you’re looking to use this traditional material as well. Regular sealing is recommended to prevent it wood from absorbing moisture. Colors can range from coffee to cream, and the grain can be pronounced or subtle. It is harder than wood and is often compared to steel in that department. You can choose from vertical grain, horizontal grain, end grain and strand-woven countertop surfaces. It does not withstand heat well; sharp objects will cause scratches. The most common types include ceramics, glass and even paper. If you prefer environmentally friendly options, look for those that are made with non-petroleum resins and natural pigments. You may prefer the look of a colorful, chaotic mosaic or a monochrome, luminous finish. Recycled paper on the other hand usually offers a smooth exterior that can be finished with any color. Glass countertops may be less heat-resistant than paper ones; glass can crack when it’s exposed to extreme temperatures. Therefore, they don’t absorb water or stains, but they can develop spotting if they’re not dried right away. They do require a regular application of sealant to retain their water-resistant properties. Concrete is also environmentally friendly because it’s essentially a combination of renewable materials, such as rock, sand and cement. It’s not always perfect, and its charm lies in its imperfections. The appearance, durability and price vary based on the material. This creates an uneven top that’s not ideal if your countertop surfaces double as a location for writing checks or doing homework. If you don’t clean the grout lines, they can accumulate crumbs, moisture and dirt. On the other hand, you can often replace one tile if its broken or stained. It’s a budget friendly countertop option that many homeowners explore. Faux finishes make some laminates hard to distinguish from stone, bamboo, wood, or marble. One thing to watch out for is hot items, which can scorch or burn the finish. It’s well-suited for rustic kitchens and many say that it offers more warmth than other stone countertop choices. The thickness of the slab can vary depending on user’s needs. Soapstone however is prone to chips and scratches, because it’s fairly soft. Thin steel sheets are affixed to an underlay that’s usually constructed of wood. You can find hammered or smooth stainless-steel countertop choices. Steel can be wiped down with almost anything, but it can be damaged by bleach and marred by abrasives. Although you don’t have to seal or wax copper, you may do so if you want to slow down the development of the patina. It develops a patina over time that gives it a mottled appearance and can change its color to reddish, grayish or green. This adds to its distressed appearance as it ages and isn’t always considered to be a detriment. That means your countertop material will have to withstand hot pots and pans, wet dishes, spills, and regular food preparation. Familiarize yourself with the best kitchen countertop options so that you can decide which one is best for your budget and lifestyle. Quartz refers to an engineered stone, which is made by combining ground quartz particles and resins. Quartz does not require special care – such as sealing – and is easy to clean. More and more manufacturers are developing countertops that look like natural stone. Because of its low water absorption, it doesn’t need to be sealed and is highly stain resistant. Using abrasive cleaners is not recommended, as they will eventually dull the stone’s finish. Because this material is water resistant, it does not harbor bacteria, and it is easy to clean with everyday household cleaners. Corian countertops can be professionally refinished should they become nicked, and your average everyday cleaner will get rid of even the toughest stains without a trace. The wide range of colors and patterns will provide homeowners with the special look and feel they want to achieve. Hot items can be set directly on granite surfaces, which makes the material one of the more convenient countertop choices. Sealing granite countertop every 6-12 months is recommended practice by professionals. Marble surface stays cool even in the heat of summer, which can give you the motivation to turn on the oven in the middle of a heat wave. It’s soft and porous and like granite it must sealed to avoid staining. Marble is also soft, which makes it prone to chipping and scratching, however these imperfections give it a charming look over time. Classic marble countertops are often white with subtle gray veining, but options in beige, brown and black are becoming popular as well. Therefore, it’s more likely to get scratched, dinged, and stained with regular use. Honed marble has a dull surface which helps to hide some scratches and etching. It’s fairly resistant to heat, but like marble needs to be sealed on regular basis. It’s meant to take a beating, yet butcherblock is also attractive and will compliment sleek, contemporary décor as well as rustic styles. This material is one of the more functional countertop choices, it practically invites you into the kitchen to whip up something delicious. The color and finish may vary, it’s a versatile choice for homeowners looking to spruce up their kitchen. However, if needed butcherblock countertops can be sanded and refinished more than once. When it comes to maintenance, wood isn’t fussy, you can sanitize it with lemon or vinegar to minimize bacteria growth. Hard maple, walnut, zebrawood and tigerwood are tough and resistant to abrasion. Chestnut is a salvaged wood adds rustic appeal and camouflages damage. It’s very fast-growing natural material, which makes it one of the greenest countertop choices. Bamboo countertops are naturally anti-bacterial, but they need to be sealed frequently to resist staining and maintain their immaculate appearance. They may be assembled in a variety of ways, adding interest to the countertop with varying patterns. Even though it’s harder than most woods, some people find bamboo to be high-maintenance, due to constant need of sealing. These kitchen countertop options are usually made with dark, solid colors with slight tonal variations. It’s far from flashy, and different pigments and finishes can be added to ensure that your countertop surfaces don’t resemble a sidewalk. It can be customized with a variety of colors and textures, and it stands up to the heaviest use. It can resemble natural stone or marble or have a smooth, uniform facade. You can choose to have it polished to shine like a mirror or add bits of other materials to add variation or sparkle. Certain finishes are more susceptible to water and food damage than others. If it’s installed and maintained properly, however, it’s one of the toughest kitchen countertop options that you can get. Tiles may also chip or become damaged more easily than slabs of the original material. It’s fairly hard-wearing and it’s one of the least expensive kitchen countertop options to purchase, install and maintain. You don’t need to do anything to maintain these countertop surfaces, and you can abrasive household cleaners or bleach to clean them. It’s easy to clean, and you can set hot kitchenware on it without damaging it. The marbling can be intense, or you may find a piece of soapstone that has a fairly uniform color. It can be re-polished if scratches are too prominent to minimize the visible damage. Hammered steel may hide imperfections better than its flat counterpart. The best kitchen countertop options use type 304 because it is tough and scratch resistant. You can clean copper easily with salt and lemon juice.

Repair A Burn In A Marble Countertop by granitecountertopsnashville.com

Read this article to find out how to repair a burn in a marble countertop yourself, or know when to call in an expert. As you should know, marble countertops and bleach do not mix. Be sure that you’re using a low bleach mold or mildew remover before proceeding. The etch remover paste may even help further break down the colors from the burn. Do not start out with lots of bleach and a little water, etching will occur and you’ll still have a burn mark. It will never be like new again, but it can make it unnoticeable to all but your most nosey guests. For those with a honed finish, this may not be a big deal as all it will do is take the shine away. Start your sanding with an 800 grit and work your way to coarser grades if the 800 doesn’t work. It is always best to consult a professional if you’re unsure so that you don’t ruin your beautiful marble!

Kims Marble and FAQ by kimsmarble.com

Under normal conditions it is stain, chip, scratch, and burn resistant. Marble is not recommended for use in the kitchen because of its tendency to stain and scratch. Granite is an extremely tough, durable material and in most cases can be used as a cutting surface without fear of scratching the stone, although repeated cutting on granite may dull knives. Marble should not be used in kitchens as excessive heat can cause damage and potentially leave scars or burn marks. Marble can be chipped and scratched under normal use and therefore, should be used in low traffic areas and should always be treated like a piece of fine wood. Marble and granite are porous materials and therefore, are subject to staining if not maintained properly. In most cases, stains can be prevented by quickly wiping the spill. To remove the stain, a poultice should be applied, which may pull out the stain from the granite. The most effective method of protecting your granite is not sealing. The stone impregnating material does not change the color of the stone, as some sealing materials may. However, it will not stop the penetration of moisture entirely. However, if some damage does occur, granite usually can be repaired by a mix of epoxy and ground-up chips of granite. Some granites exhibit these characteristics more than others, and the lighting of the room can make these marks more or less visible. Slab size may not be large enough for the entire run of the countertop. The cabinet structure, placement of cooktops, or other cutouts may require seams. The type of material may require seams to maintain the structural integrity of the material. Seam is sealed with a moisture-proof silicone/plastic caulk that is color-matched to the material to minimize visibility. The material is priced by the square foot and these costs are dependent on the product’s standard availability and the origin of material. How do granite and marble compare to other solid surface countertops? Granite is a natural material made of very hard igneous rock that is second only in hardness and compacted strength to diamonds. Easy to care for and much desired for its natural beauty, granite is an investment that amortizes over time, retaining its original appearance long after initial installation. It is a steatite stone and its primary components are magnesite, dolomite, chlorite, and talc. As talc in soapstone is soft to the touch, it gives the smooth feeling of rubbing a piece of dry soap. As villages and towns began building home structures, a popular choice for the do-it-all sink was soapstone. Alkalis and acids won’t affect it as they will a granite, marble, or slate. Its longevity to long term – high traffic use is amazing! Soapstone heaters and fireplaces heat very quickly from burning coal, pellets or wood, the soapstone will then slowly radiate heat very evenly for hours on end. Since soapstone is soft to the touch, does this mean it’s absorbant? If the surface picks up a stain or discolors, this is literally – just on the surface – and can be scrubbed or sanded off. Upon installation of our soapstone countertops, we recommend that the stone is sealed with mineral oil or stone sealer. It can and may leave a darkened area or superficial surface stain. Some people opt never to apply anything to the stone, as it will soon begin to take on it’s own natural patina with regular use. Granite is an excellent product for use in kitchens and other food preparation areas. Like any other countertop material, if cleaned regularly and properly granite poses no health or sanitation problems. Using marble as a cutting surface will result in scratches as if cutting on a piece of wood. Granite is ideal for kitchens because under normal conditions it will not burn and it will not be harmed by hot pans or open flames. Granite is a very dense material and under normal conditions it is chip and scratch resistant. In granite, the same porosity that allows for staining also allows for easy stain removal. When a liquid that might cause staining spills on the top, it should be cleaned up as soon as possible. While it is difficult to permanently repair granite, it is also very difficult to damage it. Many granites contain pits and fissures that are natural characteristics of granite. These characteristics should be pointed out to the client prior to deciding on a particular material. The weight of the material may dictate that seams are inserted so that the structural integrity of the material is not jeopardized. Access to the job or layout of the countertops may be limited and/or difficult to work with. Kim’s marble project managers will work with the client in every way possible to ensure that seams are kept to a minimum and are discreetly placed, while still maintaining the structural integrity of the stone. There are several variables that affect the pricing of granite and marble. As a result of its geological composition, granite is stain, scratch, and burn resistant. In most cases, granite countertops fall within the same price range as other high-end surfacing materials. It can range in age from 300 to 400 million years old depending on which part of the planet it is drawn from. It could be easily cut to shape with non stone cutting tools. For over one hundred years, soapstone sinks and tiles have been used in science class rooms and labs along with work tables and counter tops. Because of its truly remarkable and natural heat retention characteristics, soapstone is widely used for masonry heater fireplaces, wood stoves, fireplace liners and pizza ovens. Though soapstone is soft to the touch it is far from absorbant. Slates, marbles, most granites, limestones and travertines are absorbant. Once oil or a sealer is applied, can it be removed some day to bring the stone back to the original color? Even after 100 years of hard use, soapstone can be re-finished to a new state as though it was just installed. The mineral oil and some light penetrating sealers will bring out a dark richness to the stones natural color and also work as a protective sealing layer to the surface of the stone. Most sealers will remain for quite a while longer than the mineral oil. Spilled wine or virtually anything else will not penetrate and stain the stone on the inside. However, these marks can be scrubbed off the stone or sanded off as they can’t penetrate the soapstone below the very surface.

Countertop Materials Ranked By Stain Resistance by networx.com

Highly resistant to stains and heat, they’re also antibacterial. Glass countertops also are very stain-resistant, but they require more maintenance and care than solid-surface. Stainless steel and copper countertops are similar to glass in their stain-resistance. Richlite is a paper-based fiber composite that looks like real wood but is more stain-resistant and requires less maintenance. Slate is stain-resistant and doesn’t need to be sealed, but it does tend to scratch easily. To be sure, some high-end granite is quite stain-resistant and may not even require sealing. Tile grout can be difficult to clean, and must be sealed regularly to resist stains. But grout presents the same problem as with porcelain tiles. Coffee, tea, wine, mustard and other foods and drinks can mar wood surfaces. Travertine is another soft stone that is easily stained, particularly in the small pits across the surface. Concrete must be maintained and sealed carefully to resist stains. Plastic laminate earns the worst rating on our list, though the failing grade may be a little unfair. The problem is that stained laminate surfaces are more difficult to repair than nearly every other surfac e. For expert help with your kitchen remodel, get multiple quotes from reliable remodeling contractors. Many countertop materials resist stains only if maintained properly — and even with sealing and care, they aren’t always 100-percent stain-proof. If durability and ease of maintenance are more important than cost, quartz is certainly a good option. They will resist most stains, and the rare stain that does occur is easily repaired with an abrasive cleaner and scrubber or in extreme cases, some fine sandpaper. While wine or mustard may not mar glass, simple fingerprints and watermarks are quite visible. They are technically stainproof, but watermarks, fingerprints and grease marks can be obvious and ugly. Like many other countertops, it can be sealed to resist most stains. Granite is rarely this far down any list of countertop options. However, most granite on the market must be sealed, and is not stain-proof. Ceramic tile , particularly glazed tiles, also resist stains. Natural stone tile is a cheaper way to get natural stone onto your kitchen or bathroom countertop, but it is also a more stain-prone. However, stains are also easily sanded away or removed with lemon juice, a hydrogen peroxide solution or wood bleach. Of course, if you must have the look of marble, there is no other way to truly match it. Lemon juice, vinegar and other acidic materials can compromise the sealer and leave the concrete exposed to stains. There is little choice but to replace or resurface a stained, scratched or burned laminate countertop.

Kitchen Countertop Buying Guide: Meet The Main Players and Find Your Best Match by zillow.com

Your kitchen is the heart of your home, which means your countertops have to be fit for the job. In this buying guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about popular countertop surfaces so you can make an informed choice. While quartz is a naturally occurring mineral, quartz countertops are actually manufactured from quartz particles mixed with a binding resin. Placing a hot pot or pan on a quartz countertop can burn, melt or damage the surface. Looking at small sample pieces is fine — what you see is what you get. For the most part, you can take samples home to your kitchen to get a better idea of what you like. Some versions are resistant to high heat, but others aren’t, so be sure to check the product details for each product you consider. These countertops are much less common than recycled glass versions, due to both their higher price and stark appearance. They clean up very easily with soap and water or glass cleaner. Seeing sample pieces in person is very helpful; this type of countertop is stark, and seeing how a large, bright countertop will affect a room is critical. However, marble isn’t always the best choice for some homes, nor is it the most affordable countertop option. Marble is mined all around the world, and different regions produce different colors of slabs. Most granite suppliers will have some marble slabs for you to choose from, so you can start by checking with them first. That way, you can call the suppliers ahead of time to find out what they have in stock. Bright white marble with subtle veining is going to cost more than an asymmetrical slab with dark, multicolored veins. It’s a beautiful, natural product that not only adds value to your home but also holds up well in daily use. It’s also resistant to heat, so you’re safe to put pots and pans on it. You can pick out the exact slab of granite that will go in your kitchen. To make that task easier, bring a small piece of a backsplash tile or kitchen cabinet door with you to see how it pairs with those items. If you find a slab you like, but it contains a vein or a color you don’t li ke, the granite yard might be able to cut around that discoloration. Instead, concrete countertops are custom-made for each individual kitchen application, giving you near total control over the finished look. Edge options may be more limited compared to granite or marble, depending on the supplier. A countertop installer can make some recommendations for what’s needed. The off-site method involves building a template of your countertops and molds. The in-place approach involves building a mold right on top of your floor cabinets and pouring the concrete right in your kitchen. But the in-place method doesn’t give you as smooth of a finished surface, and most concrete countertop builders prefer the off-site method. He focuses on teaching people how to add value to their houses through various projects including custom cabinets and built-ins. If you stay away from postform and do simple edge treatments and tile backsplashes, you can create a “custom look”. Plus it’s a shame to see it thrown out by a new owner remodel. Since quartz countertops contain a large amount of resin, they’re susceptible to heat damage. Unlike granite or marble, however, quartz is resistant to staining from liquids like red wine, and it doesn’t require a sealant to keep it stain-free. Because it’s manufactured and doesn’t have natural color variations and vein, like marble or granite, you don’t need to shop for it in slabs. Some of the brands will carry quartz with faux veining in it, so you might be able to see larger images of those particular products. They come in a wide range of glass and base colors, but most commonly feature blue, green or brown glass pieces. Solid glass countertops can withstand high heat from pots and pans, and they can also be used as a cutting board. But, just like any piece of glass, they show dirt or smudges, so you will need to wipe them down more often than other countertop materials. Consequently, you’re going to pay quite a bit for this type of counter. You won’t be able to find glass countertops at your local home improvement store. You can find marble in cream, brown, green and dark hues, although darker colors are typically harder to find in a countertop slab compared to the lighter tones. Just be sure that marble is the right material for your kitchen habits and lifestyle. If you want a thicker countertop or a more decorative edge, you’ll pay more. You’re not going to find marble countertops at a home improvement store. It’s best to know exactly what marble color you’d like before you start looking. The drawback is that granite is porous, and if your countertop is sealed poorly, it can harbor stains and bacteria. Two nearly identical pieces of granite can have different prices if one has a more even color pattern or simply looks more attractive than the other. and thicker granite is going to be more expensive than thinner granite. Granite yards typically have a large warehouse with many different countertop slabs. They may also have deals where they’ll include a free under-mount sink with a countertop purchase. You want a slab that will coordinate with everything else in your kitchen. Concrete colors are predominantly on the darker side of the color scale, with a few lighter options. To handle the extra weight from the countertops, your kitchen cabinets might need to be reinforced. The molds are built off-site where the concrete is poured and polished. Countertop options abound, and there’s no right or wrong answer. This is not a problem with tile counter tops where you would just replace one tile. I was surprised by your statement that quartz is generally less expensive than granite.

What Type Of Countertop Needs The Least Amount Of Maintenance? by home.howstuffworks.com

Porous materials have minute surface holes that liquids may penetrate, leaving stains and eventually eroding or cracking the surface. Like manmade quartz and laminate, stainless steel is nonporous. Wille recommends using nothing more than a bit of soap and water to clean countertops. The addition of marble countertops in my abode has put my home maintenance skills in question. Most marble countertops need resealing every six months or so; mine haven’t had it done in six years. Bubble marathons that take place when my children convert the tub to a foamy swimming pool). The fact that my home’s marble isn’t located in the kitchen was probably a saving grace. Things like tomato sauces and red wine could easily seep into a porous surface and cause a stain. So what should you install in areas likely to encounter such substances?

Help With Burnt Quartz Counter Top by houzz.com

You are required to use cutting boards and trivets with all types of counters. You might find someone to cut out a section and replace it, but you’d be cutting inside the home and generating abrasive dust, and run the risk of the new section not matching the old. Yes it can be fixed but will require someone with an extreme amount of expertise. I guess you missed the word “accidentally” not sure how this can be labeled abuse. And mopping up dropped water keeps you from slipping and cracking your noggin. However, imho the message gets lost when it is surrounded by total disdain. The incidences of accidents is inversely proportionate to the effort one takes to pay attention to basic safety. Hence my pointing out this was an acknowledged accident not the result of repeated abuse.

I Have Slight Yellowish Burn On Marble Bathroom Countertop From HOT Hair Straightener. Any Way by justanswer.com

When a discoloration from a burn takes place there has actually been a removal of material. Restoration will require removing more material (marble) to a level that the damaged area is removed. You will be sanding past the edges of the burn and trying to “feather” the edges to join the undamaged areas. Finish with the extra fine to bring back the luster of the marble. They have a line of marble, how is this better/worse than regular sealed marble? We have a white marble countertop and an onion sitting on it left a yellow stain. In your case it has been slight but nonetheless some of the surface finish is gone. Start with the medium and wet the area of the discoloration and a few inches in all directions beyond the burn. As the yellowish color disappears change to the fine grit paper. At this stage you will keep sanding until all damaged color is gone. You may need to use some 000 steel wool at this stage. Chemical spray left etching marks on tile that seem smooth to the touch. I already have a ‘hot’ mark on the countertop from a slice of pizza my daughter took out of the moicrowave. I would like to remove these and restore the surface which has dulled in spots. I have a marble countertop in my bathroom that needs to be rehoned.

Kitchen Countertops and Countertop Materials For Counters by invitinghome.com

Than you will have plenty of stress free time to finish them to match your kitchen cabinets, and to install them before your countertops arrive. You might like to pair up a solid-wood counter surface with a marble insert and stainless steel. If you have no time for it, than you shouldn’t have to live with an expensive stained countertop. This type of countertop is absolutely water resistant and almost impervious to any dents or scratches that you would have with light sanding. These countertops require very little maintenance and last at least 20 years! Marble is a very heavy stone, but it is a very soft and porous material. Marble countertops are a very beautiful choice – usually every piece has its own little imperfections that are greatly appreciated. Granite countertops are have come back with a boom – it is the new chic style. The downfall of granite countertops is that they show fingerprints quite easily, but granite repels anything that would permanently stain it much better than marble. These countertops have a much more textured look in comparison to to the refined and smooth look of marble or granite counters. You can mix any colors into your concrete counters, creating any patterns that you would like to see in your kitchen. It changes shape due to environmental conditions – expanding and contracting. If any burns or stains occur on the wooden counters, you can easily sand them away. Butcher-block countertops are great because they resist warping, scratching, and damage from cutting. You need to make sure that you keep it sealed – probably every month. If you are willing to commit to the upkeep your wooden countertops will last. Whether it is the whole stainless-steel counter, or just one section, you can balance it with the warmth of wood cabinets – it can be a very sophisticated look. Another very good place for the stainless-steel surface would be by the sink, because stainless-steel is impervious to water. That is important know that there are several grades of stainless-steel material. You should definitely go for a material that is the closest to the highest grade and also look for the thick stainless steel so it won’t dent easily. You cannot be sure about how it will look until you try it in a combination with the others that you know you are sure about. You can also get glazed tiles that are with a more matte finish. You have a few choices with grout colors – you must, however consider, that darker grout will camouflage stains better than the lighter colors. These countertops are cheap and there is an incredible array of colors and patterns. On other hand, laminate counters cannot be protected against being scratched by sharp knives and a pot right off the stove will burn the finish. The more expensive is the color-through (aka solid-core) laminate counters. You can find patterned laminate countertops instead of the one color ones. Speckled stone pattern tends to be the most popular one because it easily hides any of the imperfections that will be caused to the countertop due to using it. There are grade variations to the laminate countertops, but due to the fact that it is so inexpensive go for the better ones. The new trend is to mix and match two different kinds of counter materials together. Even though marble is thought of as a very low-maintenance choice – it does have to be sealed every couple of years as to not be damaged by liquids. The costs and durability resembles that of marble and granite. You should treat marble counters very gently and make sure that you keep them properly sealed. They also, of course, have to be sealed to be able to withstand the elements due to the fact that they are still absorbent. If you are thinking about concrete countertops, know that it could be one of the most creative countertop choices – you have a creative license that pulls out all the stops. Wood countertops can warp if the surface is exposed to water so it is a good idea to apply a finish in a form of a varnish, lacquer, or oil periodically. You will also have to be able scrub the wood countertops periodically with anti-bacterial soap to make sure that there will not be anything left over on the counter from uncooked food. Stainless-steel could also be imbedded as a strip in a wood countertop to function as a landing strip for hot pots. There are a few negative aspects for the stainless steel countertops, they can get very noisy to work on and, and stainless-steel will show smudges. It is amazing as a backsplash by your sink – it will add great color, some pattern, and texture for the pattern. Even though tile countertops have very easy upkeep, you must re-grout periodically. You also must remember that you have to seal it to make sure that no bacteria will be trapped in the grout itself, so that no unsanitary conditions will be created. This countertops are made from melamine, paper, and plastic resin that is bonded using heat and pressure, than it is glued to particleboard or plywood. Laminate countertops can withstand minor abuse – such as some stains, water, and minor scratches. You cannot particularly repair those damages on laminate countertops. They are a bit different from the traditional laminates because they are solid all the way through and there are no break edges between the different sheets of the laminate. You can find faux stone, leather-, and wood-like laminate counters. There are laminates for kitchen countertops that are offered with an anti-bacterial shield that would not only protect your counter from bacteria, but also from mold and mildew. If you take good care of your laminate counters and keep them clean, they will last you up to 15 years!

Our 13 Favorite Kitchen Countertop Materials by hgtv.com

Because granite is a natural material, variation in the stone’s pattern is common and, for most people, adds to its appeal but can make matching up slabs tricky. Unlike other budget-friendly options, like laminate, wood is highly heat-resistant so you don’t have to worry about putting hot pots and pans on the surface. Regular sealing and special care with anything acidic to prevent etching will keep the creamy surface looking its best. Glass can be cut into any shape and texture and the color options are endless. Best of all, if you’re handy, a tile kitchen countertop is a do-it-yourself project that you can tackle in a long weekend. Retro, mid-century looks like the ubiquitous boomerang and bright, saturated colors are other trendy choices to consider. Both decorative and functional, this hardworking surface is ideal for food prep — properly sealed, wood countertops are sanitary even for chopping meat. With timeless appeal, this stone gives any kitchen a decidedly high-end look and, although the cost is comparable to some granites, marble is porous so staining can be a problem. Although it’s a pricier option, the popularity of glass countertops is on the rise thanks to its modern look. For durability, choose glass that’s at least 1 inch thick and tempered. Aside from its eye-pleasing appearance, it is energy efficient — when the temperature in your home rises, concrete captures the heat and releases it when the temperature cools down. Unlike other natural stones, it doesn’t require yearly sealing but regular applications of mineral oil will help to disguise any surface scratches, add sheen and deepen the stone’s color over time.

Marble Countertops In Dallas by econgranite.com

Marble is a classic stone that brings a touch of elegance to any room. Marble is a natural stone formed during the recrystallization process of limestone and dolomite. With this material, there are endless possibilities for your kitchen. Note that it will make your dishes and silverware stand out in contrast, and is a bit easier to maintain and keep clean than white stone. The vein patterns are a relaxing grey and soften the contrast with the black background. Surface burns made by hot pans can be easily removed, if you apply poultices treatment. Cutting directly on the countertops surface should be avoided. Durability – if handled responsibly, with the regular use of sealant, marble countertops can last a long time. It has been used for hundreds of years to make timeless pieces. Marble is historically used both indoors and outdoors, but it must be noted that marble is a porous material, and not the best outdoor solution during the winters. We also offer a variety of custom countertop edges and kitchen & bathroom sinks to go with our installation. You can check our guide on how to take care of white marble, or read the brief summary below. However, leaving a hot pot on its surface for too long can create burn marks. If you do stain your marble countertop, it is possible to remove the stains with the repeated use of hydrogen peroxide and ammonia. Marble is a natural stone mined from earth, with its reserves depleting over time. That’s why marble is still a costly when compared to some other types of materials. Rarely does granite need to be replaced since it is such a durable stone. One of the few rocks harder than granite is a diamond, so unless you’re rubbing diamond all over your countertops, you won’t have a problem. Granite is absorbent and could begin to stain if not sealed correctly.