{/literal} 2011 February | Granite Worktops


Archive for February, 2011

Quartz Kitchen Worktops

Bookmark and Share Thursday, February 24th, 2011

Quartz Kitchen Worktops
People looking to change the look of their kitchen may consider adding a quartz worktop to give the kitchen a new feel. Although granite worktops have increased in popularity with many people, there are a growing number of people that are recognizing some of the problems that come with owning a granite kitchen worktop. Many people find that the granite is too expensive and is often times outside what they had originally budgeted for their new or remodeled kitchen. Another issue that many people have is that granite is a porous material. A granite worktop needs constant sealing to avoid developing any stains. It is also difficult for people remodeling their kitchen to match pieces of granite as many pieces are different shades of the same color.

People purchasing a quartz worktop do not have to deal with the problems of owning a granite worktop. Quartz worktops are made of natural quartz, but are mixed with a thick adhesive. For people who like to remodel constantly, this is great news. It is easy to match pieces of quartz worktop as there aren’t any slight variations amongst the same color. The patterns are also identical, as opposed to granite where there may be noticeable differences between existing and new pieces.

A quartz worktop is the easiest of any worktop to clean. There aren’t any special chemicals or creams that are required to keep the worktop clean. If a spill occurs it can be cleaned with a wet sponge and some additional water if necessary. However, there are a few products available to keep a quartz worktop looking shiny and new all the time.

What many people find when they install a quartz worktop in their kitchen is that there is not a lot of work required to maintain it. Granite requires regular resealing, but quartz are scratch and burn resistant. Anything spilled on a quartz worktop will not stain it, nor will a hot pan burn or scorch it in any way. Since it is nonporous, quartz does not have any place for bacteria to form, but many manufacturers include additional materials to protect against any bacteria forming.

When looking to add quartz worktops to a new or remodeled kitchen, there are four things to keep in mind:

1. The color and the finish. Since quartz is considered to be a man made material, it is offered in a variety of colors, ensuring that anyone will find a color that they like. The other thing to consider is the finish of the worktop. Generally finishes range from smooth and polished to a rough texture that replicates a stone feeling.

2. Pattern. Some companies choose to make their quartz worktops resemble a granite worktop, while others will incorporate some form of design. It is up to the homeowner to decide what kind of pattern would look best in their kitchen.

3. The price. Companies calculate the price of a quartz worktop by the linear foot. This can range anywhere from $110 to $250, but it is best to shop around to see who offers the best deal.

4. Other considerations. Some manufacturers created their quartz worktops to have an added layer of protection against bacteria. It is important to discuss with the manufacturer any other additional features of their products.

In the end, the final decision rests on the homeowner. There is a variety of colors and patterns to suit any kitchen decor, and satisfy anyone remodeling or building a new kitchen. Quartz kitchen worktops have many advantages compared to granite, and are becoming more and more popular with people looking for new worktops.

Quality Granite

Bookmark and Share Monday, February 21st, 2011

Quality Granite

Why most people choose granite? Well, as we all know, granite is the most durable stone in the world. It comes from the inner core of the earth and is considered the hardest of all stones. It is a natural stone with long lasting tough surface. These are some of the good reasons why most people love to have it. It is really worth for the money you will put in. Granite varies in quality and you can choose the one that best suit your need and budget. There are variety of colors out in the market for you to choose from and they look strikingly beautiful and gorgeous.

Quality granite does not wear out easily.This is the main reason why most homeowners use granite in their kitchen as worktop because it is not vulnerable to discoloration or damage cause by hot pots and metal. No spot retained when you put cold object in it. Quality granite retains its glossy look even after many years of use. It is easy to clean and has a lifetime low maintenance.

Using quality granite will increase your home value whether you plan to sell it or not. It is a good investment for it adds value, luxury and prestige to your home and if in case you sell it, sure enough buyers would not hesitate to spend their money for a home worth buying. It is a fact that durability and re-sale value of a quality granite kitchen counter top is hard to match by any other surface material in today’s market. If you are looking for durability and comfort specially in your kitchen area, then quality granite is the answer.

There is one thing you should be aware of in choosing or buying the perfect granite. To be sure of its originality, you should do a test. We know that granite won’t absorb liquid so one simple thing you can do to assure yourself that you are making the right choice of granite, is to spill a drop of lemon juice or any other liquid over a piece of granite and if it absorbs liquid, it is not original.

Another important thing you must do in order to pick the right material to be used for your counter top or worktop is that, you must personally choose the actual granite to be used because every slab is different. You must bear in mind that sometimes samples would not match exactly what is available. You must be hands on when buying perfect granite for your home.

Ensuring Your Bespoke Quality Worktops Will Last

Bookmark and Share Wednesday, February 16th, 2011

Your Bespoke Quality Granite Worktops

There are different kinds of materials used in Bespoke quality worktops across the country. How you care for them or tend to them will determine the amount of use you get out of them. Each top has a special way to be cared for to ensure they stay like new and the best condition possible.

Wood is commonly known to get mold and other forms of water damage. It is a must that it is protected from these hazards. Liquids can cause irreversible problems. Sealing the wood with a water proof substance will help to avoid any liquids from seeping into it. Frequent oil use will aid in maintaining the natural appearance and protect the varnish.

Stone types include several. They can be concrete, Marble, Quartz or Granite. They all share a similar attribute when it comes to keeping them in good shape. Stone tends to be very durable but can also be chipped and marked easily. To avoid stains, a coat of stain repellent should be applied. They should be wiped every day with a light cleaner. Caution should be used when using heavy objects around these types. To keep them looking shiny, a light coat of gloss should be applied.

Stainless steel tops are used often in the place of business. They are most known for their use in the food industry. While they are considered the most sanitary, there are still some measurements that need to be taken with these. Bleach is safely used with metal and because it is typically a smooth surface. A good wipe down on a daily basis will help this metal stay ultra clean.

Glass is very nice when used in the form of a worktop but, it is fragile and easily soiled. One crack and the entire unit will need to be repurchased. Finger prints and smudges are very easily seen on glass as well. Avoid using hard items around this top and clean daily with a disinfectant to keep it usable for years.

Laminate is the most widely used, standard material. It is a pliable though and is frequently damaged due to misuse. Sharp objects can puncture laminate. A cutting board should always be used when slicing and dicing on this material.

So there you have it, if you are going to spend the time and money to purchase new Bespoke quality worktops you should also take the time to care for them properly. If done right, these counter tops will likely outlast the life of the space it occupies.

Silestone Worktops UK

Bookmark and Share Saturday, February 12th, 2011

Sileston Worktops

Silestone worktop is similar to granite in look, feel and maybe performance but Silestone is more unique because of its sparkles and radiance that is unmatched by granite. Silestone is also tough, durable and has its timeless natural beauty. Though it is not as strong as granite but it has an interesting characteristic. It keeps its lustrous gloss and ultra smooth surface without polishing. It is porous and doesn’t need sealants or waxes therefore, it only requires very little maintenance.

Silestone worktops are considered as best alternative for granite worktops for they are less expensive but has a sophisticated appearance with superior quality too. Another very interesting thing about silestone is that, its color consistency is incomparable to any other natural stone. You can have the accurate color you want to perfectly match with your existing appliances inside the house, that if you plan to renovate your worktops or counter tops, you can decide what is best.

Silestone is best for indoor surfaces like kitchen worktops, bathroom worktops, counter tops, tables and desks. Not only that, it is also best to use as stairs, floor, walls and bars. Thinking of the different gorgeous colors you can choose from is very inspiring that would prompt you to decide and go ahead renovate your house. You can check from different dealers and compare prices. There are lots out there that can give you the best offer.

Just bear in mind that silestone is by far the leader of quartz products in the market with more distributors and more beautiful and elegant colors to choose from. This product contains anti microbial product protection and is very safe to use anywhere inside your house specially in the kitchen area where you prepare your food. It provides confidence to the chef of the household using the silestone worktops in preparing food for the family.

Silestone products are resistant to bacterial growth and is very ideal to use in sensitive environments like food preparation areas in homes, restaurants, cafeterias. It is best to use in hospitals and clinics where bacteria is commonly found. This is why this product is perfect to use in our homes and in commercial places because aside from its elegant look, it also provides safety.

There are important reminders when you use silestone worktops. Even if this material is resistant to heat, scratch and stains, do not abuse this by putting hot object or whatever related things just to prove its characteristics. In order to preserve and prolong the life of your worktops, take good care of it.

Cheap Granite Worktops UK

Bookmark and Share Wednesday, February 9th, 2011

Cheap granite worktops UK

It is wonderful to cook in a beautiful kitchen. Nothing is more beautiful than granite counter tops. Granite comes with a hefty price tag. Therefore it is good to shop at cheap granite UK to buy your granite for your kitchen. Granite counter tops can be in the financial reach of many people who never imagined that they could afford granite counter tops.

Granite kitchen counter tops can be affordable. Kitchen design becomes important. Granite can be used in many ways. There are a range of options from small granite counter tops for cooking near the stove to a complete granite counter top that includes a built in table for dining.

First let us consider the most economical approach to kitchen design that would include granite. The greatest benefit of granite counter tops is for dealing with hot pots and pans as well as cutting food. It is reasonable then to have a small section of granite counter by the stove. The advantage is that you would have the benefit of granite to directly put on hot pots from the oven and pan from the stove. Also you would have an area for cutting. The disadvantage is that the area is small and the small granite area would limit you.

If possible, you might consider covering the complete counter top by the stove. The much larger area would provide more space for you to do food preparation. The look of having the complete counter made in granite is very attractive. In terms of the cost, the price of the granite counter top would be more expensive.

The next level of granite for kitchen design is to include the counter top around the sink. There is always water around the sink. Granite is a good product where there is water. If you have the stove area and the sink area in granite, then the kitchen looks elegant.

The most extravagant and stellar approach to granite counter tops is to have the complete kitchen counters and the kitchen dining table in granite. The granite can be sculpted into a design that would include multiple levels and curves. This is esthetically appealing.

In summary, cheap granite UK can help you achieve your goals and desires for your kitchen. Granite is a luxury product, but can also be within a reasonable budget for a kitchen.

Create a Great Kitchen with Cheap Granite Work Tops

Bookmark and Share Tuesday, February 8th, 2011

With the so many changes in home innovations only one product has stayed true to nature for many years. That product is granite. Many home owners are not attempting to get closer to being green through what they do in changes through out their homes.

Yes, it is true that granite can be rather expensive, however, there are many places where you can find discount granite worktops for your kitchen. It does take time to find the right place and of course the right type of granite worktop that you are looking for, however, when you are making the changes to create a more green environment for your home, it is well worth the research to find the best.

Discount granite worktops come in a variety of styles and colors. There are gray tones, white tones, tans, blacks, greens even shades of blue. The worktops are quite durable and can withstand a lot of pressure and heat. This is great for many home owners who spend hours in the kitchen but would like to cut back on the number of items that they may need in their kitchens. For example the use of trivets on the counter tops. With the typical formica worktops, you need trivets to protect the finish. This is because the tops can not withstand the heat very well due to the type of chemicals that are used to make the tops. The heat will cause the material to bubble and crack or even at times end up with scorch marks from the bottom of a pan or any other hot item that may have been accidentally placed on the surface of a typical worktop. Through having a granite worktop, this is something you won’t have to worry about, granite stays naturally cool, thus making it easier for those who do a lot of cooking to be able to set items on the surface and not worry about damage.

Other great uses that many do not consider when having a granite worktop in their kitchens, if you tend to do a lot of baking, having a granite worktop is a plus for rolling out dough for breads and cookies on, the surface is easy to clean and typically only needs a wet sponge to clean the surface.

The use of fewer cleaners is quite important to those who are looking to be more environmentally friendly. Thus having a granite worktop will help with this. Most spills will need simple cleaning to remove. For example basic dish soap and water.

Do you have small children in your home? Do you tend to serve a lot of juice? Do your current counters have stains all over them from the different juices that have been served in your kitchen? With a granite worktop, this is not an issue, the granite is easy to clean and won’t stain. Juice spills clean up quite easily, again only requiring dish soap and water making your worktop more environmentally friendly to your children as well. Through using less cleaners not only are we helping the earth but our children as well they are exposed to less of the harsh chemicals and are more likely to remain healthier.

There are many places to shop for discount granite worktops, however it does take research. If you are in the market, it is a great idea to make sure you check with local companies in your area first. See what they have to offer, what their prices are and if they will give you a free estimate in your home to see what it may cost to upgrade your current worktops to granite. If you don’t have anyone to come to your home, see about getting samples. You can actually get samples of the granite to bring to your home and see what color suits you best. Always check with several different companies to see what varieties they have to offer.

Unsure of what you are looking for? That’s okay there are many experts out there that will help you along the way. Speak to those who have been in the business for over 20 years, they typically know the granite very well and will be able to let you know which type of granite will work best for your home.

Haggling about installation prices and other steps that usually occur depending on how business is going for some companies they may want your business bad enough to give you deep discounts so, shop around and compare prices, then go with the company is best to get discount granite worktops.