Natural Stone Countertops

There are many types of natural stone available for solid surface countertops, walls like shower walls, or flooring.

Granite Countertops

Granite Countertops is an a kind of real rock called igneous rock, which means it was once molten and it shaped as it cooled deep in the earth. Different minerals within granite classically emerge as small specks and flecks during the stone, creating the salt and pepper look. Other types of granite may have veining like to marble. Granite is very hard and durable, and is nearly scratchproof. It can be highly polished and shiny or finished in a range of other ways. Granite countertops are simply cleaned because of its low porosity. Granite is obtainable in a wide range of colors.

Quartz Countertops

Quartz Countertops - Unlike granite, you never have to seal or polish quartz countertops.

Soapstone Countertops

Soapstone Countertops--Soapstone countertops in your kitchen are a natural, non-porous material, which means it won't stain and isn't precious by chemicals, acids, temperatures, etc but is darkened by mineral oil. For this reason, some pe

ople pre-trzeat soapstone with sandstone oil.

Pyrolave

Pyrolave is enameled lava rock. This is a natural rock that has had an additional heat treatment finish applied.

Marble Countertops

Marble Countertops--an age old counter top material. Some people say it stains too simply or is too soft for a good counter top material, but others oppose.

How To Polish Granite Counters

7 Materials for Creating the Perfect Kitchen Countertop

Granite – A natural stone, granite is a popular choice for its classic beauty and durability. Granite is the hardest and densest of the natural stones. It can create a kitchen countertop that is extremely scratch resistant and can keep its luster longer than most materials. Granite slabs are the most expensive of all kitchen countertop surfaces; although it is still considered a very practical material in that it is virtually indestructible.

Marble – Another natural stone, marble is considered to be the height of elegance and will last longer than most kitchens. It is however, is very expensive and requires some care: acidic foods such as orange juice will etch the finished surface of a marble kitchen countertop.

Slate – Because of it richness and beauty slate is usually used in interior applications such as kitchen countertops, bathroom sinks or fireplace surrounds. It can be used in either modern or traditional kitchens as well as in combination with marble. Slate is durable, strong, and can withstand hard use. It is less expensive than marble

Concrete –Concrete is a good material for unusually shaped counters. Concrete kitchen countertops are expensive, require a sealant and must be treated with care. The countertop can crack if the concrete should contract. Concrete can be stained any color. The most popular color is a natural gray tone. The top layer can be finished as desired.

Corian – A solid surface material that first became popular in the 1990’s it is highly recommended by kitchen countertop experts. It is a totally manmade product and is not porous. As a solid surface it can easily be repaired if scratched or burned.

Stainless Steel – Advantages include very hygienic, easy to clean, has ability to stand up to extreme wear and heat. Stainless steel can provide a great look for an ultra modern kitchen. Some disadvantages with stainless is that it can be noisy and that scratches can develop.

Tile – Tile surfaces can be tough, hard-wearing, takes hot pans, heat and stain resistant as well as beautiful. There are many types of tiles including ceramic, porcelain, quarry, glass, natural stone and mosaic. It has good design flexibility. Tile can often be used for trim or backsplashes. The downside of tile is that the grouts can be easily stained. Also the tiles can become chipped or cracked.

How to care and clean the Laminate kitchen countertops

Laminate kitchen countertops are not virtually as durable as granite or natural stone and in common will need more vigilant care to avoid damage.

Though, laminate countertops are a great value and resistance to wear and tear is civilizing. Plus, routine cleaning of laminate kitchen countertops is not hard or difficult.

Similar to any countertop exterior, you just require learning what you should and shouldn't do; you won't have a lot of if any problems saving you abundance in repairs or substitute.

Resistance to Damage

Scratches, chips & cuts are a trouble with laminate. Laminate will scratch and chip quite easily, particularly at the edges and knives will cut the surface. So, here are a pair tips to be in mind when purchasing laminate....

• Darker laminate countertop colors show scratches more eagerly

• Textured finishes are much better at beating scratches and blemishes, so a little additional for an upgraded finish can save you a lot of irritation later on.

Granite Countertop Edging

Benefits of Cultured Marble Countertops

Cultured marble countertops are a popular choice for bathroom and kitchen counters. This type of counter is a solid surface that is made out of a cast polymer. Read on to learn some of the advantages of using cultured marble countertops.

Price

One of the biggest advantages of cultured marble countertops is that it is very affordable. Cultured marble is one of the least expensive countertop options that you will find.

Solid Surface

Another advantage of cultured marble is that it is a solid surface. Many people opt for tile on their countertops, which can cause several functional problems. When you use tile on a countertop, you have to worry about the grout joints. When preparing food on your counter, the food can get down in the joints. Tile counters are typically harder to clean than solid surfaces because you have to regularly maintain the joints.

Look

Another advantage of cultured marble countertops is that they look great. Many people love the clean and simple look that cultured marble provides. It does not have a lot of grain or design in it, which means its has a very classic and timeless look.

Easy to Clean

Another advantage of cultured marble countertops is that they are easy to clean. You can wipe them down with most household cleaners without fear of damaging them. Regular stone, on the other hand, are often very porous.

Durable

A cultured marble counter is also very durable and can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. You do not have to worry about the counter chipping easily like you would with some of the natural stone products.