Posts made in January 2020

You want stunning countertops for your home improvement project, and granite is the gold standard in many people’s minds. However, not every slab is right for every application, and subtle differences can have long-term consequences for your satisfaction. At Top It Off, Inc., we’ve seen stone of all shapes, sizes, and colors, and we know how to recognize quality granite in Pittsburgh. When you shop for your next slab, consider the following tips from our team:

Match Your Colors — Countertops might be some of the most prominent parts of your décor, but they should contribute to a cohesive design. Since each piece of granite is unique, matching a slab to your existing counters and surrounding interior features can take time, but it’s well worth the results.

Light Before You Buy — The kind of lighting in a room can drastically change how granite looks in the space. Consider the intended sources of illumination in your kitchen or bathroom and buy any new lights before you settle on a slab.

Invest Now, Save Later — Few features see as much practical use as a countertop. Granite might be pricey, but its durability makes it a worthwhile long-term investment. Be prepared to budget appropriately for the quality you deserve, especially if you’re interested in rare colors.

The clamor for quartz countertops in Pittsburgh, PA, shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone. They make for a beautiful surface in kitchens and bathrooms, last a long time, and add value to homes across the world. That’s not the end of their list of advantages, though. They also happen to be an eco-friendly choice for conscientious consumers.

What makes quartz a good material for the environment? First and foremost, the natural stone that comprises much of each piece comes directly from the earth. Compared to other countertop options, it offers:

• Superior Durability
• Low-Emission Production
• Recyclable Materials

Outside of grand-scale ecological factors, it also contributes to a healthy internal environment in your home. Hypoallergenic and featuring a non-toxic surface, each quartz slab provides years of clean, healthy use. In fact, it’s such a well-known benefit for green building that many eco-conscious architects and interior designers favor it for its positional LEED points.

Of course, not all quartz is the same, and different manufacturers might have significantly different standards for environmental safety. While some offer highly recyclable surfaces, your best bet for optimal results is always to shop with a supplier who can answer specific questions about the products that appeal to you.