granite counters

Nov 25 2021

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.

Sep 01 2021

When Should I Get Granite Countertops?

Countertops can completely transform the look of a room and, when properly maintained, can last decades. However, even with proper maintenance, time can take a toll on your home. If your countertops are showing signs of wear, it may be time to consider getting new ones, and granite countertops are one of the best choices out there, offering durability, simple maintenance, and a beautiful look.

At GranitePro, we are here to help you find the best granite options for your home. With our foremost experts and years of experience, GranitePro can help you choose, install, and maintain new granite countertops, keeping your house looking better than ever. Call GranitePro at 410.875.7579 to learn more about our countertop options.

When Is It Time for New Countertops?

New countertops are a great investment in any home, but the process may seem daunting for many families. It helps to identify the circumstances in which new counters are needed, whether it is age, wear and tear, or simply updating the look of your home.

Age

If you’ve lived in your home for a while, your countertops may be showing their age. Old and outdated styles can hamper a room’s look, and the counters themselves may prove to be less durable as time goes on. If this is the case in your home, granite counters are a great choice to upgrade with.

On average, they should last between 10-15 years, provided they are properly maintained and granite has a timeless look, keeping the room fresh and modern. What is more, the durability and easy maintenance that granite counters offer make it easy to get the most out of your counters over the years. A few simple maintenance steps you can take are:

Clean regularly with mild soap and water
Avoid harsh cleaning solutions or scrubbing tools
Do not cut directly on the surface of the counter
Wipe up spills immediately
Reseal the granite when necessary.

Visible Wear

If your countertops are beginning to show visible signs of wear, that should be your first indicator to start thinking about a replacement. Some of the first indicators you may notice include:

Stains or burns – If a food stain seeps into the granite or a hot pan leaves a burn mark, chances are they are not repairable. In these cases, you may have to replace the entire counter depending on the extent of the damage.
Structural damage – Water damage, mold, fire, or harsh impacts all can damage your counter’s supportive structure, which can lead to danger for your family or damage to the countertop itself.
Cracks in the counter – Low-end or poorly maintained countertops may form cracks that make cleaning difficult or make injury more likely. If there are severe cracks, you almost certainly will need to replace the countertop.

Updating Your Home

Sometimes, you may simply want to update your kitchen or bathroom’s look, whether because the style is not to your taste or you are hoping to sell your house. If you hope to sell your house, granite counters are a great way to add value to the home and make it an attractive option to potential buyers.

Kitchens are among the most important rooms for homebuyers, so high-quality countertops can net you more money for your home and make the selling process faster.

Signs Your Granite Countertops Need A New Coat Of Sealant

If you already have granite countertops, you may not need to replace them entirely. All granite is sealed during the installation, giving it added protection against damage. In many cases, minor wear and tear can be fixed by simply getting a new coat of sealant rather than replacing the entire countertop.

If it has been a few years since your last coat of sealant and you begin to notice scratches and etch marks or moisture rings from glasses on your counter, these are clear signs your sealant is wearing off. Act quickly before any damage becomes permanent.

Learn More About Granite Installation at GranitePro

Granite countertops are among the best investments you can make for your home and can last you for years to come. If you have been noticing any of these signs on your countertops, GranitePro can help guide you in protecting or upgrading your counters.

Call GranitePro at 410.875.7579, or contact us online, so our expert team of professionals and installers can begin transforming your home today.

Aug 20 2021

Best Ways to Clean Granite Countertops

Granite countertops are not only a beautiful addition to your home but have a lot of benefits. Granite is very dense and durable, making it great for a heavily used kitchen, but an equally useful perk is simple maintenance. High-quality natural stone countertops are resistant to bacteria and other germs and relatively easy to maintain, but the secret to keeping them looking great is proper and regular cleaning.

As foremost countertop experts with over 16 years of experience, GranitePro can help you keep your countertops looking as good as new. Reach out to GranitePro by calling 410.875.7579 to learn more about granite countertop cleaning and maintenance.

What You Need To Know About Granite

Granite is a natural material, so its porousness can vary. To protect your new granite countertops, we use a sealant. This protects fluids from seeping into your countertops and causing damage over time, as well as protecting from heat and staining.

However, you will need to consider how much your cleaning products wear your sealant because of this. Sealants can wear down over time and may eventually need to be replaced. If it becomes difficult to wipe up spills or water drops begin seeping into the granite, it may be time to reseal.

Because of this, you’ll want to watch out for products that damage not only the granite itself but also the sealant.

Cleaning Granite Countertops

Even if your granite is properly sealed, it can still be blemished by wine, oil, or juice. Follow our tips to make sure you make the most of your new counters.

Don’t use harsh cleaners or abrasive scrubbing tools. Warm water, a mild dishwashing soap, and a soft microfiber cloth should do the trick without scratching the granite or weakening the sealant.
Be sure to clean spills as soon as possible. Make sure you blot up spills rather than wiping them to avoid spreading the dye over the counter.
When cleaning the countertops, be sure to wring your cloth in clean water to avoid spreading dirt, grime, and food. Then wipe down the counter with fresh water to remove any soapy residue.
After you’re finished, dry the counter with a fresh, dry microfiber cloth. This helps you avoid water stains on the stone.

Dealing With a Countertop Stain

Prevention is generally the best way to deal with stains, but sometimes your granite might need a deeper clean. Look for pH-neutral products specifically made for natural stone. Do not use generic stain removers or bleach.

Sometimes, deep-set stains can require professional cleaning. Doing it yourself may make it worse. Your counter will likely need to be resealed after a professional cleaning as well. They’re also good for removing any soap build-up left from cleaning with a dish detergent.

What to Avoid

As with any other stone countertop, you want to avoid cleaning with vinegar or any acidic products. Commercial cleaners that use citrus oils or extracts should also be avoided. These products are also acidic, and they can wear away at the sealant, which leaves your counters vulnerable to damage. Acidic cleaning solutions can also damage the stone itself, even if your counters have been sealed, causing etching on your counters.

It is also a good idea to be careful about what you put on your counters. Avoid cracking stone countertops by using trivets under your hot items, and watch out for spills of acidic drinks like juice, coffee, or soda. If you do spill, be sure to clean it up immediately.

Learn More About Caring For Maryland Countertops

Given proper care, your granite countertops can last you many years. GranitePro can bring this beautiful new touch into your home with our professional installation, templating, and fabrication services.

Call GranitePro at 410.875.7579, or contact us online to choose from our wide selection of granite products and begin transforming your home.

Jan 08 2021

Caring for Hard Marble, Quartz, & Granite Countertops

Hard marble, quartz, and granite countertops are beautiful additions to your kitchen. Caring for your countertops is not difficult or time-consuming, and it can help keep your countertops in great shape for years to come.

Read on to find out what to use (and what not to use) to keep your counters looking great! Read on to find out how to deal with stubborn stains and general maintenance. If you have countertop questions, call our Maryland countertop depot at 410.875.7579.

Taking Care of Hard Marble

Hard marble countertops are timeless, durable, and easy to care for. Making a few adjustments to your cleaning practices will help your counters stay looking new and bright.

Hard Marble: Daily Cleaning

Hard Marble countertops are easy to clean. For regular cleaning, use oil-free dish soap, a rag, and warm water. Wipe away excess soap bubbles with a paper towel.

Hard Marble: Weekly Cleaning

Once per week, you will want to use a specially formulated granite cleaner to wipe down your countertops. Granite cleaner can be purchased from any hardware or grocery store. Granite cleaners are pH-neutral, which will help you avoid discoloration over time.

Hard Marble Tips

Use soap and water for daily cleaning.
Use a cutting board during meal prep.
Avoid leaving spills to sit overnight.
Never use harsh cleaners or bleach.
Avoid leaving fruit or veggies on the counters.
Reseal your countertops every 3-5 years.
If you notice dark marks when exposed to water, it’s time to reseal.
MB Stone Care Stain Reaper Poultice Paste is an excellent choice for most hard marble stains.

Quartz Countertops: Daily Cleaning

To clean your quartz countertops, use dish soap, warm water, and a clean rag (never use brillo or abrasive sponges) to clean your quartz counters. Use a paper towel to wipe away soap residue.

Quartz Countertops: Weekly Cleaning

Use a granite cleaner to clean your quartz countertops every week. Do not use polish or dry powder cleaners). We recommend Stone Care International Granite, Quartz, and Stone Daily Cleaner spray for weekly cleaning.

Quartz Countertops: Maintenance Tips

Put hot appliances on a cutting board–they can damage quartz.
Clean up spills right away.
Only use products designated for natural stones.
Avoid putting hot, sharp, or abrasive items on your quartz countertops.
Do not slide heavy objects across your counters.
Never use harsh cleaners or bleach.
For a stubborn stain, use a small amount of Bar Keeper’s Friend “Soft Cleanser Liquid” and clean using a circular motion for 10-30 seconds.
Email a photo of the stain to info@graniteproremodeling.com and we’ll be happy to offer suggestions.

Granite Countertops: Daily Cleaning

For daily cleaning, use a clean rag, warm water, and oil-free dish soap to wipe down your counters. Do not use soaps with any kind of oil.

Granite Countertops: Weekly Cleaning

Just like with quartz and hard marble, a good way to keep your granite looking its best is to wipe it down with granite cleaner once a week. Do not use any kind of polish, bleach, ammonia, or abrasive material on your granite countertops.

Granite Care Tips

Avoid placing hot pots and pans on your granite.
Don’t walk on your countertops.
Do not use bleach, ammonia, abrasives, or harsh chemicals on your counters.
Use a cutting board when cutting food.
Avoid leaving fruit or veggies directly on the countertops.
We recommend MB Stone Care Stain Reaper Poultice Paste for stains.

GranitePro: Maryland’s Go-To Granite Emporium

If you have questions about how to care for your countertops or are interested in replacing them, the experts at GranitePro are available to help. Give us a call at 410.875.7579 to speak with a countertop expert near you!

Dec 25 2020

Benefits of Natural Stone Counters

Natural stone counters are increasing in popularity by the day. While they may be more expensive than human-made options, stone counters’ benefits offset their considerably higher price tag. At GranitePro in MD, our experts can offer you these benefits through professional installation services.

Control Your Kitchen Design With Great Adaptability

Natural stone has infinite design potential. You cannot fail to find natural countertops that will be adaptable to your personal taste and kitchen style. Every piece of stone has its own story. GranitePro can help you bring that story to life.

Granite counters can fit well with both ultra-modern kitchens and traditional ones. You can pick the pattern and color depending on your interior decor. On the other hand, marble counters appeal more if you want to be elegant yet conservative. Nevertheless, some marble colors, such as black, can blend well with contemporary kitchen styles.

Besides, a natural stone combines well with various other materials, such as:

Plastic
Steel
Concrete
Wood
Synthetic materials

With natural stone counters, you can bring sophistication and liveliness into your kitchen, subject to your personal preferences.

You might need some flexibility when you want to remodel your bathroom or kitchen. If you are looking to install some custom cabinets, the contractor can cut the natural stone into your desired shapes.

Maintain Sanitary Conditions

If you are looking for a sanitary surface for preparing meals, your best option is a natural stone. Granite counters are an on-trend kitchen option. The stone is easy to clean and highly resistant to bacterial accumulation. The feature makes it sanitary enough to use in food prep. We recommend using a cutting board, but your kitchen surfaces need to be easily sanitized.

When disinfecting the stone, avoid using washing liquids that serve to clean and disinfect. Such products often leave streaks that are damaging to natural stone countertops. In its place, you can use a mixture of warm water and mild antibacterial dish soap. Apply the mixture to the surface and use a mild cleaner to remove or prevent streaks.

Natural Stone Counters Are Durable

Many dangers in the kitchen can destroy your countertops. You will not need to worry about little accidents with natural stone because the material is tough enough.

Manufactured countertops typically fail to resist the effects of liquids. It is much easier for water, for example, to warp or separate them. Moreover, they can easily chip or crack because of the dropping of items. However, natural stone is resistant to the effects of many types of fluids, and a dropped item rarely destroys stone countertops.

Typically, stone countertops require negligible maintenance, if any, to sustain their resilience, stain-resistance, and sparkle. Marble counters need some looking after, typically annually, except where the seal warranty lasts longer. Quartz counters are generally free of maintenance.

Eco-Friendly

When you go shopping for countertops, you will find many options, some of which are tempting to choose because they are relatively cheaper and easier to install. However, do not let the low price and convenience fool you. The products can be more hazardous and ineffective than you might imagine.

Manufactured countertops lack the durability and long life of natural stones. Furthermore, they contain plastics and chemicals that contribute to the destruction of the environment. You cannot recycle them easily.

Also, when you choose a professional contractor, you will protect the environment through services such as:

Contact GranitePro for the Best Stone Counters

If you want to incorporate natural stone in our kitchen, GranitePro has an array of options depending on your preferences and budget. You can reap all the benefits mentioned above by considering natural stone counters for your new or existing kitchen. Contact GranitePro at 410.875.7579 for the right stone countertops for your home.