When starting a kitchen or bathroom renovation, there are a variety of things you must make decisions on such as cabinet colors, sink options, color hardware, and your countertops. When picking your countertops, it tends to come down to two different options for the material: granite or quartz. Although they are not vastly different from each other, there are key differences that may influence your choice when the time comes to decide. Hopefully, this article can make your decision a little easier.
Quartz countertops are engineered stone products made of 93% crushed quartz mixed with resins. Most of the material is composed of minerals but anywhere up to 7% can be resins and color pigments. Resin refers to a certain material category of semi-solid natural and synthetic compounds that can be hardened into a highly durable plastic material.
Granite countertops are slabs of quarried stone. It is produced from purely natural stone that is mined directly from quarries and is then cut into thin slabs, polished, and fabricated into countertops.
Since quartz is a man-made stone, it is much more uniform in appearance compared with granite. One of the biggest reasons quartz has become so popular is due to its similar appearance to stone while also allowing homeowners to customize the design. Quartz is usually designed to resemble stone, but it is also engineered in formats that do not resemble stone.
Due to granite being a natural stone and the way it is formed (cooling and solidifying of molten materials), no two slabs of granite are the same. Every granite slab is slightly different in mineral pattern and color which means your countertops would be completely unique. Real granite can display dramatic veining and patterns that cannot be replicated in quartz.
Due to its porous nature, granite needs to be sealed when it is installed. It is recommended to reseal it once a year after installation. Granite countertops may be cleaned with soap and water or a mild household cleaner. To avoid stains, make sure you research which cleaners are best for your granite countertops. Some cleaners may contain harsh chemicals that can damage your countertops.
Because quartz contains resins that make the surface less porous than granite, it more resistant to staining and therefore does not require sealing. Like granite, you can clean your quartz countertops with soap and water or a household cleaner.
Both granite and quartz are considered premium and high-dollar countertop materials. According to HomeAdvisor.com, the average cost of purchasing and installing granite can cost between $2,000 and $4,500 for kitchen countertops. And the average cost of purchasing and installing quartz can cost between $3,000 and $7,500 for kitchen countertops.
There are things you can do to save time and money in your kitchen countertop installation process. Some things include preparing your cabinets and making sure they are leveled, having the correct information for the sinks you want installed, and even having the correct appliance dimensions. If you have no experience with construction and home remodeling, we suggest speaking with a professional. They will talk you through the entire installation process and recommend what is best for your specific situation. When it comes to actually installing the countertops, both quartz and granite are extremely heavy materials that are difficult to cut and drill. It is best to have a professional fabricate and install your countertop.
Both quartz and granite are premium and beautiful options to install in your dream kitchen renovation and bathroom renovation. They add to the users’ enjoyment of their kitchen or bathroom. They also add solid resale value to your home for the future if you decide to sell. When people are looking into buying a new house, they tend to prefer granite and quartz countertops. This is in comparison to other materials used for countertop renovations such as laminate, solid surface, or tile. When deciding between the two materials, granite appeals to people who like all-natural materials with unique appearances and don’t mind the occasional resealing. Quartz counters offer easier maintenance and slightly better durability, but it does not offer the unique look of natural granite.
Are you thinking of remodeling your kitchen? Are you thinking of what materials to use for your countertops? Relieve yourself from the whole hustle by contacting our Jackskon Stoneworks for all matters to do with kitchen remodeling. A kitchen is the most important area in your house for your whole family. Remodeling it will make it more attractive and free from bacteria growth and granite is the best material you can use to achieve your goals.
Listed below are the benefits of using granite for your countertops
Granite is a hard stone hence it is long lasting and is easy to maintain. It can withstand hot dishes and scratches form knives. Granite gives your countertop resistance to wear and tear. Cleaning it also takes little effort, as you just need to smear it with warm water using a lenient cloth. This makes it less vulnerable to bacteria growth.
Granite is the most affordable material that can work with a low budget hence minimizing cost. It also comes with a variety of color to choose from which can best suit your kitchen countertops.
The visual appearance of granite is more attractive when compared to other options in the market. Due to its natural look, with natural patterns and drawing, it makes the kitchen have a greater aesthetic appeal.
Granite does not break easily. This makes your kitchen the safest place for your entire family. Refurbishing and changing it is also easy as it is small.
This makes it comfortable for use by your entire family. You can place hot dishes on it without any fear of overheating it.
Granite has a firm shape that makes it usable without support of other items. It can accommodate any type of cooking. This also makes it simple to repair. Its flat surface also offers space for perfect cutting.
Schedule to Speak to a Jackson Stoneworks Sales Person About Your Granite Needs
When it comes to designing or renovating your kitchen or bathroom, the choice of countertop material is crucial. You want something that not only looks beautiful but can also stand up to the daily wear and tear. That’s where engineered quartz countertops come into play. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive deep into the world of engineered quartz, exploring its many benefits, how to maintain it, and why you should consider getting your engineered quartz from Jackson Stoneworks, the go-to experts in surfacing.
Engineered quartz countertops are a remarkable blend of natural quartz crystals (about 90-95%), resins, and pigments. This unique combination offers a slew of advantages that make it a top choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
1. Durability: Engineered quartz is like the superhero of countertops. It can take a beating from daily life without losing its shine. It’s resistant to stains, scratches, and even heat – perfect for your bustling kitchen.
2. Aesthetic Versatility: One of the coolest things about engineered quartz is the vast array of styles it comes in. Whether you’re into the classic look of marble or prefer a sleek solid color, you’ll find an engineered quartz option that suits your taste.
3. Low Maintenance: Who wants to spend hours cleaning their countertops? Not us! Engineered quartz is practically maintenance-free. Just a quick wipe-down with some mild soap and water, and it’ll look as good as new.
4. Hygienic: We all know that hygiene in the kitchen is paramount. Engineered quartz is non-porous, which means it won’t be a breeding ground for bacteria or viruses. It’s the smart choice for food prep areas.
5. Value Addition: Think of installing engineered quartz as an investment. Not only does it make your space look amazing, but it can also significantly boost your home’s resale value.
When you’re picking out engineered quartz, think about what colors, patterns, and thickness will work best for your project. There’s a world of options out there, from mimicking the elegance of natural stones to embracing modern simplicity.
Keeping your engineered quartz countertops in tip-top shape is a breeze:
Spills? Wipe them up quickly to prevent stains.
Using a cutting board will prevent any unsightly scratches.
Hot pots and pans? Always use a trivet or hot pad to protect the surface.
For everyday cleaning, just reach for a pH-balanced cleaner.
Now, let’s talk about why you should get your engineered quartz from Jackson Stoneworks:
1. Extensive Selection: We’ve got a huge range of engineered quartz options, so you’re sure to find the perfect fit for your project.
2. Expertise: Our team of surfacing experts is here to help you every step of the way, from choosing the right material to expert installation.
3. Quality Assurance: We ensure top-notch quality and durability.
4. Customer-Centric Approach: At Jackson Stoneworks, we put our customers first. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re always here to answer your questions and make your surfacing experience smooth and stress-free. For more details, please visit our showroom.
Engineered quartz countertops are a fantastic choice for those who want both style and substance in their kitchen or bathroom. They’re not only visually stunning but also easy to maintain. When you’re ready to enhance your space with engineered quartz, trust Jackson Stoneworks to provide you with the best options and expert guidance. Reach out to us today to explore our stunning engineered quartz collection and elevate the beauty and functionality of your home.
New countertops are one of the most common updates in a new home. It is almost guaranteed that the new homeowner will dislike the previous owner’s counters. Maybe they are in poor condition, look outdated, just not your style, or are impractical for your family. You want to get rid of them, but wonder what are the best kitchen countertops for families? If this is the case, then keep reading.
Let’s be honest. Families are rough on a house. Not intentionally or maliciously. But, boy are they rough. From the I-only-left-him-alone-for-5-minutes toddler, to the gawky tween that seems to break everything they touch, to the door slamming, “You’ve ruined my life” teen, the family home really takes a beating.
The heart of the family home is the kitchen. So, the kitchen counters better be able to stand up to all the use and unintended abuse of the family. This is not the place for the beautiful, yet fragile, statement countertop.
Additionally, families are busy. Often too busy to spend time keeping counters spotless or to do the required maintenance of sealing. The actual sealing of the counters doesn’t take that much time. But, again, let’s be honest. Very few homes look like the perfect images we see of clutter-free and spotless kitchens. By the time the counters are decluttered, and have had a good cleaning, time’s up. You’re ready to relax, are busy putting out some family fire, or realize you’re five minutes late for the next thing.
Families need countertops that are practical, durable, and low maintenance. The best kitchen countertops for families meets those needs, and are still beautiful. They don’t sacrifice looks for durability. These three countertop materials are a great choice for the family kitchen.
Quartz, also called engineered stone, is perfect for families. It is heat, scratch, and stain resistant, and does not etch. (Some of the lighter colored quartz countertops may stain, so be sure to research your choices.) It’s easy to maintain and does not require sealing. With care, such as using trivets and cutting boards, it is practically indestructible. Finally, it does not require any special cleaners, just warm soapy water.
Quartz comes in a wide range of costs, and usually falls on the higher end of the countertop price spectrum. For many, the combination of low maintenance and durability justify the price.
For those looking for something more natural, a granite kitchen countertop is the answer. Like quartz, granite is very durable and resistant to heat and scratches. For the most part, it is also stain resistant. However, granite does need to be periodically sealed.
Because granite usually has a speckled appearance, it can be a great choice for families. Sometimes, living with children can feel like living with Charlie Brown’s friend Pigpen. They just seem to generate dirt and crumbs without doing anything. Those speckles in the granite do a great job of hiding all the little crumbs that seem to always be on a counter.
Granite also comes in a pretty wide range of prices. Depending on the grade, granite can be a great economical countertop choice for the kitchen.
Although marble is a beautiful and durable stone surface for kitchen countertops, it requires specific care for cleaning and maintenance. Marble is composed of calcium carbonate, which makes it susceptible to etching by any acid-based foods or cleaning products (including vinegar and lemon juice). Other common cleaning products like bleach and ammonia will also damage marble over time. Also, never use abrasive cleaners or sponges that will damage and dull the finish.
The simplest way to clean marble is by combining a squirt of dish soap with hot water. Spray the surface of the marble, then wipe with a microfiber cloth. Use a second clean cloth to dry the surface as water can leave marks on marble.
Follow these details to safely clean, polish, and seal your marble countertops to keep them looking fabulous for years to come.
Use a damp cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner designed for stone (check with your countertop company for their recommendations) to clean your countertop.
Alternatively, you can also use mild dish soap and water. Wipe and scrub gently with a damp, soft cloth.
Wipe the counter with a clean, damp cloth or towel. Rinse the cloth with water and wipe until all of the suds are gone.
Dry the countertop with a soft, dry cloth or towel to prevent spots or streaking
Dust at least once a week with a soft micro fiber cloth
Sprinkle baking soda on the countertop and rub gently with a damp cloth to polish the surface. Use a damp towel to wipe away the soda, and dry with a soft cloth.
For mild etching, look for a marble polishing powder that is approved for countertop use and follow the directions on the package.
Seal your countertops regularly, as recommended by the manufacturer, or when you notice that water fails to bead up when it splashes on the surface.
Sealing helps prevent stains and damage, and it keeps the marble countertops looking beautiful.
Note, there are some marble surfaces that do not need sealing, so check with your manufacturer or retailer to make sure your countertop requires sealant.
If you’re a homeowner who is interested in selling your home, you’re probably considering upgrading the home first in order to raise the value of the selling price.
You might update the flooring and the paint. How about the kitchen countertops? After all, the kitchen is one of the most important parts of the home.
If you’re not selling your home, maybe you’ve been wanting to upgrade your kitchen. Are your kitchen countertops looking the worse for wear? Keep reading to learn how replacing kitchen countertops makes a big difference in updating your kitchen.
Are you planning on selling your home, and you want to get the best resale value? Remodeling your kitchen can increase the value of your home.
What’s more, you don’t have to go all out for your kitchen remodel. A minor kitchen remodel of $15,000 can get an average of 98.5% return at resale.
When you walk into a kitchen, one of the first things you notice is the countertops. If they are in good condition, you will notice that. If they are dingy, cracked, or in bad shape, you’re going to notice that too.
Considering whether or not you should upgrade kitchen counters when moving out? When buyers are looking at houses for sale, an updated kitchen is one of the top features they are looking for.
Maybe you dislike the look of your kitchen because of the state of your countertops. Perhaps you don’t like preparing food in your kitchen because the countertops stain easily or are difficult to keep clean.
Upgrading your kitchen countertops can make a difference. After all, the kitchen is known as the soul of the home. It’s where all the family meals are prepared.
Do you have to do a full kitchen remodel in order to upgrade your kitchen? Not necessarily.
You don’t have to change everything in your kitchen in order to give it a new look. Changing your kitchen countertops can be one place to start, especially if the rest of your kitchen is in good shape already.
Are you interested in upgrading your kitchen counter, but not sure what material to choose? Here are some of the most popular kitchen countertop material options.
On the high end, there is the option of marble countertops. Marble is a beautiful, unique choice.
Marble is also heat resistant. However, marble countertops do come with a high price tag.
Another popular material is granite. Granite material is durable, strong, and resistant to heat. Granite countertops are a classic option that can improve the look and style of your kitchen.
Granite comes in different colors. You do have to add sealing to your granite countertops and reapply the sealing when needed.
Can’t decide which countertop material to choose? Here are a few considerations you might need to make first.
If you’re not planning on moving out of your home, replacing kitchen countertops can be a way to show off your home style. Whether you’re into the farmhouse look or minimalism, there are many different styles and options to choose from.
You also want the style and color of the new kitchen countertops to match your flooring and other aspects of your kitchen.
Another consideration is how low-maintenance or high-maintenance the countertop material will be. If you have small children or messy teens, for example, you’ll probably want kitchen countertops that are easy to clean and maintain.
You should also consider the state of your kitchen cabinets and your kitchen appliances. How will they look with new kitchen countertops?
Would the new countertops complement your kitchen, or would they clash with all the items in your kitchen?
Replacing kitchen countertops is one way to upgrade the look of your home without having to break the budget. If you love spending time in your kitchen, but don’t like the state of your countertops, you should consider upgrading your kitchen countertops.
Want more advice on countertop upgrades or ready to speak to a salesperson at Jackson Stoneworks? Please complete the form below
Porcelain slabs are indeed becoming increasingly popular as a choice for kitchen countertops. They offer a range of benefits that make them an attractive option for homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen surfaces before the holidays:
When considering porcelain slabs for your kitchen countertop upgrade, it’s important to work with a our sales team for all your porcelain surface needs. Proper installation is essential to ensure that your countertops look and perform as expected.
Before making your final decision, it’s a good idea to see physical samples of the porcelain slabs you’re considering to ensure they match your kitchen’s lighting and design elements. Our offices are open Monday through Friday 9AM to 5PM. We are also open Saturdays from 9am to 2PM.
Taking these steps will help you make an informed choice and create a beautiful and functional kitchen space just in time for the holidays.
It’s important to note that the specific steps and timelines can vary based on sales member, material, and overall project. Working with Jackson Stoneworks and following our instructions will help ensure a smooth process from our factory to your home.
Schedule a Consultation Now or call (352) 372-6600 to speak to a Jackson Stoneworks Salesperson.
It happens every year, right at the start of January as you are clearing out the holiday decorations and thinking about the magic that was Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Eve, and then you think, “So many people were cramped into my kitchen and I hate it!” It might not be the exact quote, but you are not alone when it comes to people who hate their kitchens and wish they had done something about it BEFORE the holidays.
But the year slips by and here we are…in September. Well, let this newsletter remind you to get to it NOW if you want to make some changes to the kitchen…and remember that Jackson Stoneworks is here to help!
Maybe you just want a fresh look, and aren’t thinking about a complete renovation. Changing out the countertops certainly changes the look of any kitchen and the options we have here at Brunsell are many. Whether it’s granite, quartz, or marble, we have a huge variety to choose from. Click here to view all the countertops we carry for your kitchen. We can help you pick the right style and we offer installation if this is a project you are doing yourself. Be sure to know that Jackson Stoneworks is here to help with any material installation you will need.
This is a bigger project and you will want to get this taken care of immediately if you are hoping to have a kitchen ready for Christmas. It’s not that far off! You can schedule to visit our showroom.
Of course, you could make some quick changes to make your kitchen look bigger: adding an island, changing the fixtures and even upgrading your countertops. But looking bigger and changing your kitchen to be better suited for the holidays are two different things.
Come on in and let’s get started on your kitchen upgrade. It could be the best Christmas present you’ve ever given yourself.
Getting the kitchen you want before the holidays requires careful planning, efficient execution, and proper time management. Here are some steps to help you achieve your goal:
1. Define Your Vision:
2. Set a Budget:
3. Hire Professionals:
4. Create a Timeline:
5. Material Selection:
6. Secure Necessary Permits:
7. Efficient Execution:
8. Flexibility and Contingency:
9. Prioritize Key Features:
10. Final Touches:
11. Prepare for the Holidays:
Remember that while completing a kitchen upgrade before the holidays can be a rewarding endeavor, it’s important to balance your desire for a timely completion with the need for quality workmanship and a well-executed project. Proper planning and effective communication with our team will help you achieve the kitchen you want in time for the holidays.