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5 Things to Consider before Buying Your Kitchen Countertop

Kitchen countertops have become a major focal point in many homes. They are not only used for preparing food and doing household chores but also as the primary decorative piece in your kitchen. Thus, choosing the right material and style is essential to ensure that it will last long while complementing the rest of your home decor.

We know choosing the right countertop can be overwhelming, so we’ve created this guide to help you make the right decision. Here are the things to consider when choosing the right countertop for your kitchen:

The Material Used

There are many different types of materials that you can choose from. Each material has its unique features and benefits, so it’s important to know what you want before making a final decision. Here is a list of some of the most common materials:

  • Granite
  • Quartzite
  • Marble
  • Soapstone
  • Solid surface

How Long It Will Last

The durability of your countertops is very important because they are an investment that will last for many years to come. Granite, quartzite, and marble are all extremely durable materials that can withstand the test of time. 

Soapstone is also very durable and non-porous. While it’s easy to clean, this material needs regular oiling to maintain its luster.

A solid surface may not be as durable as other material options, but it does have a lower cost and easy installation process. Take note that it is hard and impact-resistant, so it’s not necessarily a bad option either. 

The Required Maintenance

When choosing countertops, you should consider the maintenance it needs once installed in your kitchen. For example, you should consider how much time and effort it will take to keep the countertop looking great. Granite and quartzite are incredibly durable materials that can withstand the test of time, and require regular cleaning and polishing every 5-15 years.

As long as you keep it clean on a regular basis, granite will last for decades without showing any signs of wear and tear.

The Style of Your Home

When it comes to choosing your countertop, you should consider the style of your home. If you have a contemporary kitchen, then granite or quartzite would work well because they are both modern materials that will enhance the look and feel of your space. On the other hand, if you have a traditional-style kitchen, then soapstone would be a good option because it has an earthy look that fits right in with rustic decorating styles.

The Price Tag

Make sure to consider your budget and make sure that you get a countertop that will fit within your budget. You should also consider the fact that there are many different types of countertops available, and each one comes with its own price tag.

Conclusion

The choice of countertops can be overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. We hope this guide has helped you narrow down what type of material and style you want for your kitchen.

If you are still overwhelmed and don’t know what type of kitchen countertops to choose, we suggest that you ask for help from a professional. Schedule a free consultation with the Cutstone Company today and let us help you find the perfect countertops for your kitchen.

Decorating Your Granite Countertop: Using Traditional Styles

Granite countertops are popular for kitchen remodeling projects because of their durability and natural beauty. While many people leave their granite countertops untreated, you can also add traditional style to your kitchen by decorating them with simple techniques.

You can use plenty of traditional styles to dress up your granite countertop. If you’re unsure how to get started, read on for some ideas.

Look at Style and Texture

As any kitchen designer knows, granite countertops are great choices for modern homes. They are strong, easy to maintain, and offer various colors and styles. 

When decorating a granite countertop, there are many traditional styles to consider. For example, a honed finish provides a smooth, matte look that is perfect for creating a classic backsplash or accent wall. 

Alternatively, a tumbled finish provides a more rustic look with its rough surface and irregular edge. Of course, one of the most significant features of choosing a granite countertop style is finding the right texture and variation to complement the overall design of your kitchen. 

For instance, a vein-cut granite countertop can add a touch of elegance to a traditional kitchen, while a leathered finish may be more suited to a contemporary space. By taking the time to explore all of your options, you can be sure to find the perfect granite countertop style for your home.

Play with Materials

Those planning to install granite countertops in their kitchen may wonder about the best way to decorate it. 

Many different styles can be achieved with granite, but one of the most popular is the traditional style. This style can be achieved using natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal. 

By using these materials, you can create a countertop that has a classic look and feel. These materials are also very durable, so your countertop will last many years. 

Consider decorating your granite countertop with traditional techniques if you seek a countertop with both style and substance.

Complement with Cabinets

To achieve a traditional yet updated look in your kitchen, pair your granite countertop with cabinets in neutral tones. Shades of white, ivory, cream, and taupe will create a warm and inviting space that feels classic and contemporary. 

When selecting cabinet colors, consider both the undertone of your granite and the surrounding finishes in your kitchen. For example, pair your granite with warm undertones with creamy white cabinets for a cohesive look. 

Opt for crisp white cabinets to balance the stone’s tone if you have cooler-toned granite. To add a dash of contrast and visual interest, consider installing cabinets with two different styles – such as painting the lower cabinets a rich taupe color while keeping the upper cabinets white. 

No matter what shades you choose, by decorating your granite countertops with traditional-style cabinet colors, you’ll be sure to create a beautiful and timeless kitchen.

Finalize Your Finish

When choosing a finish for your granite countertop, there are two main options: honed or polished. A honed finish will create a matte look, while a glossy finish will give the countertop a high-shine appearance. 

Each option has pros and cons, so deciding what look you’re going for and what level of maintenance you’re willing to commit to is essential. 

Honed finishes are more susceptible to staining and require frequent sealing, but they offer a softer, more natural look. Polished finishes are easier to keep clean but may show scratches and water spots more easily. 

Ultimately, the best finish for your countertop is the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Conclusion

While there are many alternatives to decorating your granite countertop, we have outlined some of the most popular and timeless techniques. Following these tips can create a fascinating and unique look for your home.

If you’re in the market for custom countertops, contact All Surface Solutions. We provide top-quality residential and commercial granite countertops in Birmingham, AL, and the surrounding area. With over 20 years of experience, we are confident that we can meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Contact us today to get started!

The Truth about Heat Damage and Your Granite Countertop

Granite countertops are a popular kitchen choice because of their natural beauty and durability. But can granite countertops withstand the heat of everyday cooking? And if they can’t, will they chip or crack?

Can Heat Damage Your Granite Countertop?

Granite countertops are heat resistant, meaning you can place hot pans on them without damaging the surface. This makes them ideal for cooking, as you can prep food on the countertop and then place it directly in the oven.

Granite is a natural stone that forms from extreme temperature changes. As liquid magma or lava cools, it hardens into igneous rock, one of which is granite. The granite in your kitchen countertop was probably formed from volcanic activity millions of years ago.

Granite is a hard, dense rock that is resistant to heat. It is formed from hot magma and has a melting point between 2200 and 2300 degrees Fahrenheit. Even when exposed to a direct flame, granite will not melt. However, you should not use a blow torch on your granite countertop.

Granite countertops are heat resistant, meaning they will not chip or crack when exposed to high temperatures. Even a red-hot cast iron skillet, with a temperature of around 1300 degrees, will not be hot enough to damage the stone.

What Not to Do 

However, you should not place hot pans directly on your granite countertops because they can damage the countertop sealant. The sealant is applied at installation or reapplied later and is not resistant to heat. Exposed, porous granite is more vulnerable to stains.

Granite countertops can be damaged by heat if excessive heat is applied over time. This can cause the granite to soften and discolor. 

However, if the seal on the granite is intact, there is no realistic scenario in which such extreme heat would be applied continuously in any domestic environment.

If the sealant on your granite countertop wears down, it makes the granite more susceptible to damage and discoloration. You should reseal your granite countertop at least once a year and more often if you use it a lot.

You can use store-bought restoration liquids or pastes to repair it and just apply and wipe off these compounds to restore the surface to its original state.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

Granite is an excellent conductor of heat, so hot dishes or pans placed on a granite countertop will cool down faster than usual. To keep food warm longer and prevent heat damage to the countertop sealant, use a towel or hot pad between the pan and the counter.

Remember, granite countertops can be damaged when they experience extreme temperature changes. Outdoor countertops are especially at risk because they are exposed to high temperatures in the summer and low temperatures in the winter. Some types of granite countertops are specifically made to withstand these temperature changes.

If you drop something heavy on your granite countertop, you’re more likely to crack or chip it than to damage the sealant. If this happens, you can use an epoxy solution that matches the granite’s color to fill in the crack or fissure. 

Depending on the extent of the damage, this kind of repair may be difficult to do yourself, and you may need to contact a professional.

If you want your granite countertops to last a long time, it’s best to have them installed by a professional countertop installation company. This will prevent any future problems and help keep your countertops looking great.

To Sum Up

Granite countertops are a popular choice for countertops in kitchens and bathrooms because of their natural beauty and durability. While granite is a very hard material, it is not immune to damage. Heat can cause granite countertops to chip or crack, so it is important to take precautions to protect them from heat-related damage.

Are you looking for granite countertops in Birmingham, AL? Cutstone Company offers residential and commercial custom countertops. Get in touch with us. 

5 Beautiful Countertop Edges Perfect for Your Home

When it comes to updating your new kitchen countertops, you always have a variety of options. One thing you can choose for certain is your counter edge. These edges have different purposes and have different impacts on the overall aesthetic of your kitchen.

The right edge of your countertop is critical; it’s an extension of your cabinetry and should complement your overall design. A properly accented countertop edge will draw the eye upward toward the cabinetry, creating a seamless look throughout the kitchen.

Find out what popular countertop edge options are available, what they look like, and when you should consider them for your next countertop project.

1. Bullnose Edges

Bullnose edges are rounded, giving a beautifully curved profile to your kitchen countertops. Their rounded shape helps to soften the transition between the kitchen cabinets and the countertop.

Bullnose edges are more than just attractive; they are also quite durable and easy to maintain. They are the best and safest choice for families with small children who love to run around the kitchen.

2. Beveled Edges

Beveled edges have a high, straight slope that offers a smooth transition between your countertop and cabinets. They create a distinct sharp border that offers refinement and elegance to kitchen countertops. This style is a popular choice for both kitchens as it will help to hide any imperfections and create a smooth transition between your cabinet and countertop.

When you choose beveled edges, you can choose the level, depending on the designers and manufacturers of the countertops. This type of edge may be a bit expensive compared to the other types of edge but can be worth it because of the beautiful clean effect.

3.  Ogee Edges

Ogee edges are strikingly curvy, just like a soft “S” curve. They can be applicable for most cabinet materials but can be exquisitely beautiful on stone materials. This edge adds a subtle, clean finish to your countertop, and it can be a great option for those looking to make a statement with their backsplash.

The unique shape of ogee edges creates a dramatic feel to your kitchen countertops that are perfect for a transitional or contemporary kitchen. Some of the major benefits of this style of edge include its ability to hide any minor imperfections on the surface of the countertop, making it a great choice for slightly bowed surfaces. Because of this, ogee edges may be more expensive because of the intricate form.

4. Eased Edges

Eased edges have flat sides and slight curve corners, perfect for small kitchens with limited space. This style is a great option for most countertop styles but really shines on the butcher block, granite, and marble countertops. 

This type of edge is also great for people looking for a reasonable price without compromising a smooth and clean profile. Eased edges work best in almost all types of kitchen spaces, from traditional to contemporary ones.

5. Mitered Edges

Mitered edges are great for cabinetry that is visible from multiple angles, such as the kitchen island. This type of edge is created by combining two 45-degree angle pieces to form a seamless, uninterrupted 90-degree edge. Because this style of edge is smooth and even, it provides a very clean, elegant look to your kitchen, no matter what kind of countertop you have.

But, in order to achieve this, you will need a skilled carpenter to cut the corners. The best way to achieve the perfect mitered counter edge is to choose a material that will seamlessly blend with the cabinetry.

Conclusion

There are a lot of countertop-edge options available for you to choose from. It all depends on the type of finish and touch you want to create in your kitchen. Whichever look you want to achieve, counter edge options are a great choice because they are a quick and affordable way to create a stunning new look in your kitchen!

If you’re looking for countertops that look professionally finished and really truly beautiful, then you need experts who can help you make the right choice. At Cutstone Company, we can provide you with the best, high-quality kitchen countertops in Birmingham, AL. We offer a wide range of services, from quartz countertop fabrication to granite countertops and beyond, to help you create the kitchen you’ve always wanted. Let us provide the countertops that are right for you, at the right price. Contact us today to get started!

5 Compelling Reasons To Invest in Real Marble Countertop

You’re faced with the same dilemma that so many marble-obsessed homeowners have: you adore marble, but is it worthwhile to keep it looking great year after year?

Marble is a comparatively soft stone compared to other natural stones such as granite and quartzite. If spills aren’t cleaned up soon away, they can etch, and it will naturally develop a patina, or color change due to oxidation, over time.

One of the reasons why manufacturers are creating manufactured surfaces that seem like marble is that some individuals don’t want to be bothered every time a dinner guest places their wine glass on the table without a coaster. However, if you adore the classic beauty of marble, no substitute compares to the real thing.

Here are the five compelling reasons to invest in real marble countertops in Birmingham, AL.

Honed Marble Is Just As Beautiful As Polished Marble

Because honed marble offers a more matte surface finish, any dullness caused by a stray lemon slice will be less evident than on a highly polished surface. Many homeowners love the look of honed marble because it has a soft, satin surface rather than a glossy luster.

Every Slab Is a One-of-a-Kind Piece

Some homeowners believe that manufactured quartz countertops that look like marble are a better alternative since they are easier to maintain. Manufactured quartz countertops that look like marble can be designed to resemble real stones like marble. While engineered stone is less expensive to maintain than marble, it will never have the same depth, unique patterns, or color variation.

When installing custom marble countertops in Birmingham, AL, you can choose a unique slab. Nobody else’s kitchen will have veining and characteristics like yours.

It Can Be Sealed To Make It Stain-Resistant

Real marble will discolor one of the homeowners’ biggest worries about using it for kitchen countertops. While acidic foods and beverages (such as red wine and tomato sauce) can leave stains or etches on marble, there are ways to prevent this.

Your countertop fabricator can avoid stains by impregnating the pores immediately beneath the stone’s surface with an impregnating sealer, which slows liquid absorption and allows you more time to clean up spills. 

Today’s sealers are quite successful at preventing staining while preserving the appearance of the stone.

While no sealer can prevent etching, which causes the stone to be dull when it comes into touch with acidic elements, a good sealer can help protect your new marble from stains for years, if not decades. Ask if your fabricator offers a multi-year stain warranty to put your mind at ease.

Marble Is Heat-Resistant By Nature

If you’re a baker, you’ll appreciate that marble is one of the most heat-resistant stones available, far more so than a typical competitor, resin-based artificial quartz. Marble is a popular choice for fireplace surrounds, worktops, islands, and vanities because of its feature.

Natural Stone Increases The Value Of Your House

Stone countertops will increase the value of your home and appeal to potential purchasers if and when you decide to sell. Natural stone countertops are aesthetically pleasing and demonstrate that you’ve invested in and cared for your property.

Still on the fence about it? Before you make a final decision, consult with your countertop fabricator. Most will gladly give you a sample of the marble hue you like so you can try it out at home.

Pour lemonade on your sample, leave a coffee ring on it, or drop a tomato slice to see how it reacts. Try a piece of both polished and honed marble to compare the results.

Conclusion 

Every homeowner in Birmingham should take their time to select a material that is appropriate for their lifestyle and aesthetic. Marble, like any other natural stone, will need to be maintained to keep it looking its best. To ensure the perfect kitchen space, homeowners must choose a reliable marble supplier in Birmingham, AL, to provide the proper stone for their homes and maintain maintenance.

Are you looking for marble countertops in Birmingham, AL? Cutstone Company specializes in custom countertops for both home and commercial applications. Give us a call right now!

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