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Marble Countertops

Picking The Right Outdoor Kitchen Countertop

Backyard grilling has never been the same since kitchens were moved outdoors. This brings us to one of our favorite items in an outdoor kitchen – countertops. When it comes to outdoor kitchens, this is one item that might not always stand out like a showy mantelpiece, but if it isn’t there, the room is quite incomplete, wouldn’t you agree?

When done right, it is not just functional but can become the focal point of your kitchen. So, when it’s such an intrinsic part of your indoor kitchen, there’s really no reason why you shouldn’t include it in your outdoor kitchen as well.

Having a countertop lets you prep, cook, and even eat your meals outdoors, but you need to put some thought into what you need before just selecting one. We help you choose the best material for your outdoor kitchen countertop.

Best Outdoor Kitchen Countertops Compared

Quartz: Given that quartz resists staining and doesn’t need sealing, polish, or buffing, One would think an engineered stone  would be an ideal and logical choice for an outdoor kitchen.

Quartz is non-porous, extremely sturdy, requires minimum maintenance, and can handle spills, scratches, and stains when the proper cleaning care is maintained. Even better, it comes in various colors, which are quite uniform in pattern and texture compared to other natural stones.

Unfortunately, Quartz countertops are sensitive to UV rays and extreme temperatures, making it a poor choice for outdoor kitchens.

Granite: This is still one of the most popular options for indoor kitchens. But when you consider that it’s stain, heat, scratch, and cut resistant, it’s easy to see where the appeal lies and why many people opt for granite for their outdoor kitchen. While it does work for outdoor kitchens, remember that granite differs in hardness and porosity.

You also need to be sure to reseal your granite every year, especially if it is used in an outdoor kitchen. As for colors, granite might have differences in patterns and appearances, as it is a natural stone. So while it’s not easy to get granite that looks absolutely consistent, the character of each slab makes it unique and stunning.

To get it to look as consistent as possible, pick granite slabs that are taken from the same quarry. Working with a granite countertop fabrication company that specializes in outdoor countertops can save you a lot of time and money by helping you choose the right type of granite that will properly withstand the elements.

Some stones may deteriorate in the sun’s UV rays or formulate different forms of stains such as rust or elemental stains.

Marble: As far as aesthetics go, marble is classic and timeless, and you’d be hard pressed to find a better-looking material. But it’s not the most versatile or hardy of stones, so an outdoor kitchen that is open to the elements or used roughly might not be the right space for marble.

Apart from being a softer material, marble is more prone to scratches, dents, stains, etching, and heat, if not cared for properly. You can put this down to the fact that marble is calcium carbonate.

When any acidic items like tomato, wine, or lime juice fall on it, it eats into it, leaving behind a haze or etching, an issue that you don’t have to worry about with other natural stones. 

Soapstone: Heat and stain-resistant, soapstone brings to mind a rustic, charming appeal that only this muted metamorphic rock can impart. Mostly available in bluish-gray, green-gray, gray, white, or soft black that is often veined or speckled, soapstone is non-porous, dense, and can resist bacteria and chemicals quite easily.

As far as thermal conductivity is concerned, it beats both granite and marble. But while soapstone has its pros, it also has its share of disadvantages. For one, its high-talc content makes it prone to scratches. This is not a low-maintenance material, so be prepared to spend time and effort on its upkeep, which includes applying mineral or walnut oil to it once or twice a month.

Its surfaces also naturally darken over time, so do not expect your soapstone countertop to look exactly as it did when you bought it as the years go by. 

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To pick the best material for your outdoor kitchen countertop, you have to first identify how much you plan to use your kitchen and how roughly or gently you will use it. Then you have to see how your countertop fits in with your outdoor kitchen’s overall design and layout.

Choosing a countertop is not a decision that can be made in isolation, and the right team of experts will be able to help you narrow down your list to know exactly what you need.

At GranitePro, we look at all aspects right down to the material, finish, and seams of your countertop to ensure it fits your space and lifestyle perfectly.

Contact us today to get the correct guidance on how to simplify your search and achieve incredible functionality and aesthetics with the right outdoor kitchen countertop.

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.

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.

3 Natural DIY Ways to Clean Marble Countertops

If you’ve chosen a natural stone like marble or granite for your countertops, you likely love them, so you will want to protect your investment by caring for them correctly. Although correct sealant application will protect your countertops, using harsh cleaners can reduce their effectiveness over time.

DIY cleaning of your marble or granite countertops can be very simple when armed with a few tricks of the trade and made quite earth-friendly (and inexpensive) with a few common ingredients and tools you probably already have around the house.

Here are some guidelines from our team at GranitePro. Call 410.875.7579 to ask one of our experts if you have questions about DIY cleaning or maintenance.

Materials

The porous nature of natural stone lends to a beautiful final product, but it does require the occasional use of some gentle cleaning materials. These will include:

  • Baking soda (flour can be used as a substitute if needed)
  • Hydrogen peroxide
  • Gentle, unscented liquid dish soap
  • Isopropyl alcohol (70%, or diluted from 99% to 70% with clean water)

Other helpful tools to have on-hand include:

  • Refillable spray bottle
  • Plastic cling wrap
  • Scotch tape
  • Bowl and spoon or spatula
  • Microfiber towels, or old, clean cotton t-shirts

3 Marble Countertop Cleaning Tips for DIYers

Although you can buy a commercial cleaner specifically designed for use on marble, any mild, alkaline dish soap will do the job. The following three tips should allow you to tackle any stain on your marble countertops:

1. For general cleaning and maintenance, you simply need to:

  • Mix warm water and dish soap in a refillable spray bottle (about a tablespoon of soap to a bottle of water)
  • Spray the entire surface area of your countertop
  • Wipe up all residue with a clean cloth until dry
  • Buff with a soft towel
  • Store the remaining cleaning solution for later use

2. For most food or wine-based stains, you can spot-treat the stained area with hydrogen peroxide mixed with a few drops of ammonia.

3. Remember that marble is more sensitive to acid solutions like lemon juice or vinegar and can even contribute to the formation of dull etches that require re-grinding and polishing.

The bacteria-resistant nature of natural stone means you generally don’t need to worry about extensive disinfecting, provided the counter has a solid seal. However, should extra precautions be required, a quick spritz with isopropyl alcohol or antibacterial soap and wipe with a clean cloth is all that is necessary for a little extra protection.

Granite Countertop Cleaning Tips for DIYers

Cleaning and disinfecting granite countertops will be very similar to marble countertops. They can also be kept in great shape with a regular routine of warm water, mild soap, and microfiber towels.

For oil-based stains, you might try creating a poultice of baking soda and water in a bowl (until it is roughly the consistency of Greek yogurt or sour cream). Next, use a flexible spatula to spread on the affected area, cover with plastic wrap, and tape down the edges. Make sure to spot-test a small area first to ensure that the color of the stone won’t be affected. After you apply, let sit undisturbed for a day or two to let the baking soda draw out the stain. Rinse to monitor the results. Difficult stains might require multiple treatments.

For water-based stains, use the same process but substitute hydrogen peroxide for baking soda and water.

GranitePro: Your Granite Experts

Occasionally, even the best-maintained countertops may require professional cleaning and resealing. At GranitePro, our team of in-house artisans is here to help you with all of your marble and granite countertop needs. Call us today at 410.875.7579 for information on how to best care for our natural stone products, keeping them looking as good as new for decades to come.

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