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How to Upgrade the Visual Appeal of Your Home with Granite Countertops

Are you looking to level up the real estate value of your home? What if we told you that there was one remodeling decision that would change the look of your home and increase its value in the market. We’re talking about a stunning natural stone that was earlier considered to be out of limits to all, except for luxury homeowners.

Now, however, it is not only one of the most popular countertop materials; it has also become a fixture in most homes. Yes, granite countertops have cemented their way firmly into homes where a house without one is the exception rather than the norm. And when you see the value granite countertops add, you will understand why a home looks incomplete without them.

First, let’s dive into what makes granite so popular as a home improvement addition, especially when it comes to bathroom or kitchen renovations. Sold by the square foot with the national average cost for granite countertops ranging from $3,500 to $5,000, granite might be one of the more expensive options.

Still, it’s an investment well worth it, given that it’s one of the hardest-working natural materials around. Not only is it highly durable, but it’s also resistant to scratches and moisture. Granite also has stain resistant properties with the help of a professional sealant. So, a scalding pan straight off the stove or spills from kids are unlikely to damage its surface, making it the perfect material for bathroom or kitchen countertops. With the right care, it will last for years, as unlike wood or other laminates.

Granite countertops are also easy to clean. Light colored granite can show up dirt faster. Use a soft sponge and mild soap to wipe them down.

Since these stones are available in nature, each slab is unique in its pattern, characteristics, and look. Those who prefer consistency think this is one of the most significant downsides of granite and turn to quartz countertops, but this need not be an issue.

Granite has a complex natural pattern or a movement. You can achieve the same consistency and shade from slabs that are mined from the same quarry to add to the visual appeal of your kitchen or bathroom countertops.

Upgrade to One of These Trending Granite Colors

Apart from the benefits listed above, have you noticed how beautifully glossy and reflective granite countertops look? Granite contains mica, feldspar, and quartz, which lend it that sparkle and depth you see. It’s available in a range of colors such as black, red, pink, green, white, yellow, and dark gray, among others.

Color granite is fast becoming an interior trend. Leading the pack are neutral tones. These muted, sophisticated shades are in demand and pair beautifully with other materials to create a clean yet warm look. Gold, copper, and brown accents offset neutral-hued granite to create a space that’s inviting and cozy. However, black continues its reign of being an always-in-demand shade for granite.

Not much can beat this shade when it comes to adding drama and sophistication, especially when accompanied by the flecks of gold, glitter or sparkle you see reflected in the stone. With the focus on making your home a calming and soothing space continuing this year, blue granite has been making waves.

With colors ranging from deeper, velvety blues to lighter, more tranquil shades, blue granite can at once transform your home into an oasis of comfort. If black is too dark of a shade for you, but you want the drama it imparts, look at dark gray, red, green or molten, chocolaty brown shades that are perfect for statement-making countertops.

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If you’re looking to add a unique focal point to your home, enhance its curb appeal, and increase its overall visual appeal, you cannot go wrong with stone countertops.

Full of character, natural stone can lend your home a distinctive personality that mass-produced, synthetic products cannot recreate.

As the leading experts in granite counters, contact us today to see how we can add value to your home with these unique stone slabs.

Why You Should Avoid Painting Granite Countertops

“Never underestimate the power of paint.” This is a common saying in the world of interiors, and as far as your home goes, a fresh coat of paint can go a long way in making everything look bright and new.

But there’s one area where this saying doesn’t hold true, and you would be better off not following this golden rule. We’re talking about your kitchen and bathroom countertops.

So, what do you do when like everything else, they too begin to show signs of wear and tear, which can affect the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom? We’ll tell you the best solution.

Here’s Why You Should Not Paint Your Countertops

Granite countertops are popular in kitchens and bathrooms for a reason. They not only look stunning but are also available in a variety of colors and patterns that cannot be replicated with other natural stones.

Add to this, granite’s incredible durability, the fact that it’s resistant to scratching, stains, and heat, and is difficult to damage, making granite an option you cannot go wrong with. That said, you should avoid painting them when they too start to look a little worn or outdated.

Painting granite countertops involves far more effort than simply buying a can of paint and getting to work with a brush. For one, paint does not easily stick to granite. To make it stick, you need to prepare the surface carefully by etching or roughing the granite to encourage adherence to the paint, which can be done mechanically or chemically.

Then you need to use a specific, high-quality coating that can stand up to heat and water to complete the job. None of this is easy to do without the right expertise, knowledge, and equipment (unless you have a high appetite for risk). And when you call in the experts, the amount you’d be spending would be far better used to replace your countertop completely, which will immediately transform your space more aesthetically and safely than a risky paint job.

There are more disadvantages even if the paint were to stick. For one, paint, irrespective of the kind, is not as durable as granite itself and is likely to crumble.

Additionally, it’s not completely water-resistant, and will start getting stained and flaking off the minute it starts absorbing water, which is again thoroughly impractical.

Countertops With a Leather Finish

Many people choose to go for a leather finish when it comes to their granite countertops. Leathered finish on granite countertops was originally developed for exterior usage.

The finish is achieved by using special brushes that eat away at the softer material, leaving behind only the harder elements. It leaves your granite countertops with a subtle yet elegant textured finish that is very durable, low maintenance, and easy to clean.

Many of our clients have been installing granite countertops with leathered finish in their kitchen and bathrooms to provide the space with subtle texture and something new to the room!

To put a leathered finish on your existing countertops, they would need to be removed and brought to a stone fabricator that offers this service. Make sure they have the right CNCs to perform this service as it is not possible to provide a consistent finish along the whole surface by hand.

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For all the reasons listed above, when it comes to painting your granite countertops, it’s far better to just not do this. If you really need a change, maybe replacing them entirely is the answer.

At GranitePro, not only do we have the expertise to do just this, but we also have options to suit any space, look, or design you have in mind. So don’t worry about trying to fix your countertop with paint. Instead, contact us today to see how we change the look of your space with stunning stone countertops we install for you from scratch.

The Timeless Allure of Marble and Granite Countertops

Granite and marble are not just the most durable countertop options for your home; they are also created by Mother Nature to look stunning. It’s no coincidence that Maryland marble and granite countertops are among the most popular kitchen counter and bathroom countertop options for local homeowners.

Though new trends are geared towards luxurious materials and natural stone countertops, granite and marble surfaces deliver looks that are everlasting and classic.

As the hardest of the stone countertops, granite is distinctive both in color and versatility. This stone is not just extremely durable but can also adapt to just about any style of kitchen or bathroom. As for marble, when it comes to adding a luxe element and elegance to a home, you cannot beat the look it offers to a space.

Both marble and granite have their advantages and unique characteristics, so you can pick the one that best suits your home. Alternatively, you can create a unique visual contrast by using more than one type of material for your bathroom or kitchen.

Why Buy Marble and Granite from a Local, Maryland Company?

For both granite and marble, one key aspect of countertop selection is actually touching the material to see how it feels. Also, by seeing it in person, it’s that much easier to visualize how it would fit into your home décor.

Like different wood types, different stone types have slightly different variations of texture as well as distinct looks. Some granites may show dots of quartz, fissures, or other natural characteristics.

Once you’ve picked out what works for you and decide to move forward with a purchase decision, you then have to account for shipping cost and installation time. This is why we strongly advise that you visit a local, Maryland marble and granite countertops showroom and scope out all your options before actually buying anything.

This way, both you and the contractor will have a very clear vision board to work with to get you a step closer to your dream space.

Granite vs. Marble: How Are They Different?

Although the differences are not aspects many are aware of there is actually a world of difference between granite and marble countertops.

Granite Countertop

The first one is that granite is resistant to scratching and stains. This makes it a perfect kitchen countertop material for a busy lifestyle. For example, if you put a hot pan on granite, it is highly unlikely to cause harm to the stone.

Similarly, if you are rolling out pastry or dough, the warmth of the ingredients acts as the perfect foil for the coolness of the stone, which means the dough won’t stick, making this a baker’s dream material.

In bathrooms, vanity granite countertops complement all other materials, and since the look it offers is not uniform on account of its natural pattern, it creates a one-of-a-kind effect with stunning variations even within a single countertop itself.

The low-maintenance aspect is what also makes granite so appealing. It contains mica, feldspar, and quartz, which are responsible for the sparkle and depth you see in this material. As for shades and colors, the range available is breathtaking with all the colors quarried and ranging from red to yellow, black, white, pink, and green.

Granite also has a complex natural pattern, which is known as a movement. When using granite, it’s a good idea to pick slabs that were mined from the same quarry to ensure consistency. Even then, you will find variations in shades and characteristics, but this is precisely what gives granite its distinctiveness. You have to account for one drawback, the possibility of staining.

Although it does have stain resistant properties, it is not 100% stain proof. A professional seal will help protect your new countertops against staining. However, oil and tannins should be wiped in a reasonable timeframe. For example, it is not recommended to leave an oily pan on your countertops overnight.

Marble, of course, looks incredible, with its elegant patterns. Marble is available in a variety of shades ranging from classic pale palettes to rich, dark hues. Due to the more porous and softer nature of marble, it is more often used as a decorative material. It can be used for countertops in your kitchen or bathroom to lend the space a sophistication that is difficult to replicate with any other material.

Marble countertops, however, require a lot of care, as it’s not as durable as granite and easily damaged by acids from citrus juices, alcohol, nail polish, perfumes, or other product spills.

The surfaces also scratch easily. But once they are properly sealed, both granite and marble can be cleaned with a mild cleanser created specifically with natural ingredients that do not harm the stone, along with a sponge and water.

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When it comes to granite and marble, one of their biggest advantages is their durability. But this also makes the slabs extremely difficult to cut, handle and install. Any mistakes can be a costly affair. Authorized experts who know their way around these materials are important to get the look, aesthetics, and functionality just right.

At GranitePro, we understand these materials and the importance of customer service to give you just what you need. Contact us today or visit our Maryland marble and granite countertops showroom to know more about what we can do for you.

Questions to Ask When Buying New Kitchen Countertops

The process of buying new kitchen countertops isn’t as simple as ordering through a catalog or website. It requires thought and planning. After all, you want your new countertops to look good, last long, and match well within your space. Ultimately, you will be using your new kitchen countertops for years to come.

As with any new purchase, it always helps to be equipped with the right questions before making a purchase decision. Understanding your needs and concerns will help you to ensure your kitchen looks exactly how you envisioned it. We list some of the important aspects to keep in mind before remodeling your kitchen.

How Do You Choose the Best Kitchen Countertops?

When it comes to your kitchen counters, appearance and functionality are key. Whether you choose natural stone or a more unique option, here’s a lowdown on what you need to look at to strike the right balance between form and function.

What Are the Best Countertop Materials to Use?

There are so many to choose from depending on the overall style and design of your room. Some countertop options include:

Marble: Marble countertops give you a clean, polished, and contemporary look. Due to its softer material, marble is not always as durable as other options. A sealer can be applied to help protect the marble from staining. However, it will still be prone to scratching and etching. One popular option of marble to consider is Carrara marble. Named after the region in Italy it originates from, Carrara marble looks light gray and often displays a subtle hint of blue.

Granite: A popular option is granite countertops, which are amazingly durable, completely natural, can be easily cut into various shapes and sizes, and are also heat-resistant. Granite countertops display a polished appearance that can add an upscale touch to your kitchen. When it comes to variety, you will not be without options. Colors range from black to white, brown, red, and others depending on the mineral content. Some popular finishes include leathered and honed.

Quartz: If granite and marble don’t cut it for you, you can also consider quartz countertops, which are usually a mixture of natural quartz with a resin binder. Quartz countertops are an excellent alternative to marble. All the beauty with none of the maintenance. It is a durable option, and far less porous than marble. Quartz counters resist stains well and do not require sealing, making them one of the most practical options for you to consider.

Soapstone: You can also opt for soapstone, which gets its name from the natural talc it contains that lends it a softer or soap-like texture. While it’s not the most scratch resistant option, it also has advantages in that it is not only non-porous but is resistant to stains, bacteria, and heat. To protect soapstone, oil is to be applied to help wear and tear. As the soapstone countertops are used, a patina will form over time, providing you with a rustic and natural look.

What Should You Know About Cleaning?

Look for durability and stain-resistance when buying new kitchen countertops. That way, your countertops can be cleaned with water and mild dish soap or a gentle, all-purpose cleaner free of harsh chemicals. It’s important to consider picking the right material for the right purpose. For example, marble looks fabulous but it is porous and prone to scratching and etching, which means that if you spill red wine or juice on it, you will need to wipe it up quickly to avoid staining. A sealer will help prevent stains on marble, but this material does require more cleaning to prevent damage. So, if you’re looking for heavy-duty use, granite will work best, as it’s durable, heat-resistant, and extremely hardy.

What Is an Edge Profile?

Edge profiles may sound insignificant, but they add value when it comes to making your kitchen look modern and up-to-date. You can pick from bullnose style curves, s-shaped ogee edges that add a luxe element to your kitchen, or square or rounded edges, depending on your preference. To avoid accidents, square edges are best used in a child-free home. A half-bullnose is an excellent option for homes with children due to its gently rounded profile.

How Do You Install a Countertop?

A 45 square foot measurement is an average estimation of a kitchen countertop but, of course, this depends on the design, floor plan, and counter space of your specific kitchen. Countertops can be placed in a way that allows them to balance out a room. For example, a dark design can complement the effects of and highlight, white or light-colored cabinets.

When it comes to countertop installation, it is important to ensure they are cut with precision. After your countertop is leveled out and glued down using a professional sink anchoring system and silicone, the sink is attached to the stone. These steps are all completed the same day.

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A kitchen remodeling job that involves buying new kitchen countertops can go a long way in dramatically improving the look and function of your space. However, new countertops require quite a bit of investment in time and effort. For this, you need experts with the right skills, insights, and techniques who can take care of everything from the installation to guiding you on the right options for your home. At GranitePro, this is exactly what we guarantee. Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you.

Marble vs. Granite Countertop Options

Due to their natural beauty and versatility, both marble and granite countertops have become popular options in recent years. Both are available in a nearly endless array of shades and colors, accent virtually any living or professional space, and can be easily tailored to fit your requirements and budget.

When it comes to choosing marble vs. granite options, our team of experts at GranitePro can help you make the right decision and provide you with step-by-step guidance to make sure you love your remodeled home. Call us today at 410.875.7579 to schedule a free consultation.

Marble Vs. Granite – Which One Is Right For Me?

When it comes to choosing a natural stone countertop, you’ll want to consider the following factors:

  • Price
  • Number of technical details in the final product
  • Whether you are using prefabricated or custom slabs
  • The complexity of the design (number of seams, whether or not the counter is “U-shaped,” how it integrates with bathroom or kitchen fixtures, etc.)
  • Appearance (color, grain, and texture)
  • Grade of material
  • Location (home, bathroom, etc.)
  • Construction
  • Maintenance
  • Availability

Marble Countertop Installation

Marble, which is formed from recrystallized carbon, is a more dynamic substance than granite. It is softer and will develop a patina on the surface as it is used, changing its original appearance over time. However, this natural pliability is an ideal medium for projects that require fine detailing. Just bear in mind that it is more porous than granite, so any spills should be wiped up immediately to prevent staining.

In terms of color, marble presents with a more unified palate, with the textured veining appearing as intenser highlights (for example, in a piece of red marble, the veins will be a deeper shade of red). The size of the pattern tends to be larger than in granite. Commercial marble is also available in primarily white or black patterns. The overall effect is perfect for a job demanding understated elegance.

Marble is slightly more expensive than granite, starting at around $75 a square foot. However, rare varieties of marble can be costly, running over $200 per square foot. It also requires some more maintenance, which should be discussed with your designer during the planning stages.

Granite Countertop Installation

Granite is composed of a number of grains, including mica and quartz. It is the harder of the two stones, so granite tends to perform better against the basic wear and tear inherent in food preparation when it comes to kitchen remodeling. Granite generally does not change appearance over time if correctly sealed and maintained.

Granite contains several elements visibly embedded throughout the slab as multi-colored highlights, which will most likely influence your final design. This also means that granite is available in almost an infinite array of colors. The downside of this is that you may have difficulty obtaining an unlimited quantity of the same pattern; however, the natural variation makes it an excellent choice if you wish to make your countertops the central focus of a space.

Finally, granite is slightly more affordable than marble, running from approximately $40-$80 per square foot. The appearance of the stone is one of the significant factors determining the price of the material, with less expensive granite having a more subdued appearance. Granite requires immediate sealing after installation, which most contractors should handle as part of the cost.

Marble and Granite Countertop Installation at GranitePro

Although there are advantages to both options, relying on expert designers and technicians will ensure that either choice leads to an elegant home remodel. Call our team at 410.875.7579 for a free consultation to learn how GranitePro can help make your renovation project one of the best investments you’ve ever made.

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