Kitchen Countertop Bliss

With the growing popularity of granite as the material of choice for countertops and worktops, it’s easy to think that it has no downside whatsoever. It’s extra tough, elegant, and so easy to maintain. However, despite all these advantages, the cost of granite can be very prohibitive, ranging from $60 to $150 or more per square foot. Many people would rather spend on appliances than on such an expensive countertop, and for good reason. In addition, you cannot just do a granite countertop installation yourself because of its sheer weight. Thus, even avid DIYers are forced to spend hundreds to install their dream countertops. Read the rest of this entry »

Due to the prohibitive cost of granite, not many people can afford to use it for all their countertops. A good way to get around this problem is to use granite sparingly in a kitchen, for instance. You can use granite tiles for your backsplash and regular kitchen tiles, perhaps with the same hue, for your countertops. You can also use granite for a small part of the countertop and mix it with hardwood. It all depends on how creative you are. You can also use granite tiles instead of a whole piece of granite slab for your countertop, saving you hundreds of dollars. Read the rest of this entry »

Many people are confused by the term “marble granite countertops.” It’s actually a countertop made of granite but having the look of marble. The patterns mimic that of marble rather than regular granite slabs, and the sheen and smoothness of the marble granite countertop is likened to that of marble. This type of countertop is extremely durable and is impermeable to most common household substances. You can even slice your food directly on the countertop without having to use a chopping board. To instantly raise the value of your home, decide on an elegant, one-of-a-kind marble granite countertop. Read the rest of this entry »

These types of countertops are still classified under natural stone because soapstone, like marble and granite, is also quarried. It is preferred by many homeowners for the rustic look it exudes. It’s called soapstone because rubbing your hand over it is like rubbing a piece of dry soap – not harsh and cold, but somehat soft to the touch. This doesn’t mean, though, that it is absorbent. It’s a tough countertop material but care still has to be taken to protect it from being scratched. Soapstone countertops are not affected by acids as they do granite or engineered stone, and its heat retention characteristics are truly impressive. Read the rest of this entry »