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Your kitchen is one of the most important rooms in your home. You spend a lot of time there, so it only makes sense to ensure it matches your aesthetic preferences. One of the best ways to update your kitchen’s appearance and functionality is with the installation of customized countertops.

Matching countertops to your kitchen’s design scheme, considering factors such as the appearance of your walls, backsplashes, and appliances, is essential. When searching for custom countertops in Butler, PA, you need to know exactly what you’re looking to buy.

Choosing Your Countertops

There are several steps to consider when deciding what kind of custom countertops are right for your kitchen space. First, you have to choose the material. Popular options such as granite, quartz, and soapstone offer unique benefits. Make sure you pick the right one for your particular requirements.

Second, think about the appearance of the countertop you’re buying. Lighter colors are a good choice for bright, open, airy spaces, while darker colors are suitable for a rustic style. There are many combinations available, so feel free to experiment.

Finally, choose a countertop that matches your functional requirements. You want to be sure that your custom countertops are just that: truly customized to your needs. You’ll be glad you did the research necessary to make an informed choice.

When it comes to remodeling your kitchen, there is one dark horse option that more and more homeowners are starting to consider—soapstone countertops in Pittsburgh, PA. This unique, beautiful, and widely misunderstood natural stone delivers a wide variety of benefits to homeowners looking to do something uniquely different with their space.

Known for its warm appearance and soft touch, soapstone stands in sharp contrast to the hard, cold granite and marble options that have dominated kitchens for the last several decades. The differences between these types of countertops do not stop there either; soapstone brings a wide selection of amazing benefits to your kitchen space, including the following:

• Nearly Impervious to Staining
• Scratches & Dents Can Be Sanded Out
• Antique Look That Ages Gracefully
• No Sealing Required
• Immune to Burns & Scorches

The bottom line is, when you want some old-time charm for your countertop, soapstone is a perfect choice. Kitchens with this material in them deliver a classic style that is easier to care for and more charming than many of its contemporary engineered stone and natural stone counterparts. With just some periodic mineral oil, you will be able to create and care for a stunning surface that will continue to evolve and distinguish itself as a centerpiece for your kitchen.

Purchase soapstone countertops in Pittsburgh, PA, from our company. Turn to us when you are looking for new countertops for your kitchen.

You have great looking granite countertops in Wexford, PA, but how are you going to keep them looking that way with regular use? That is a question that many homeowners find themselves asking, and the answer is a lot easier than it might initially seem. A daily rinse with hot water and a dishrag or sponge is all you need to quickly clean spills and wipe away crumbs, which helps your granite countertop continue to look great day after day.

Some of the additional ways to keep your countertop looking fresh are to give your surface a complete clean every week and, once a month, polish the granite with a topical conditioning stone polish. Every year you should test your granite to see if it needs to be re-sealed and, if it does, make sure you get the work done to protect your granite further.

There are a lot of myths and misconceptions that come with granite countertop care. In truth, however, it is not a challenge as long as you keep this simple list of “do’s” and “don’ts” in mind.

The Do’s of Caring for Your Granite Countertops

Blot Up Spills Immediately – Wine, coffee, juice, and other acidic substances can stain your surface if they are not wiped up quickly.

Clean Surfaces Using a Sponge or Soft Cloth – Using a specialized natural stone cleaner, gently wipe away spills using one of these options. This helps to preserve your countertop’s shine.

Use Coasters on Your Surface – Granite is not going to etch like marble will, but it is still a good practice to reduce the potential risk of staining by using coasters under all of your cans, bottles, and glasses.

Use Trivets & Hot Pads – While it is possible to take a hot pot off the stove and put it directly on a granite countertop without any problems, there is a risk of “thermal shock” which can end up cracking your counter. Simply using trivets and hot pads eliminates this risk.

Use a Cutting Board – Do not risk scratching your surface. Cutting directly on your granite’s surface not only puts your countertop at risk but also will also quickly dull and damage your knives’ edges.

The Don’ts of Caring for Your Granite Countertops

Don’t Use Generic Cleaning Products – Bleach, glass cleaners, and other common household cleaners and degreasers contain acids, alkalis, and other chemicals that degrade the sealer of your granite.

Do not Use Vinegar, Ammonia, Lemon, or Orange Cleaners – You might think it is a good idea to use one of these natural cleaners for your countertop, but that simply is not the case. These cleaners can damage your sealer and remove the shine from your counters.

Do Not Sit or Stand on Your Countertops – Granite is a very hard surface, which might make it seem like it is safe enough to hold your body weight. What you need to keep in mind, however, is that granite is not flexible. That means too much weight on one spot can cause cracking.

Don’t Store Liquids or Toiletries on Your Countertop – Leaving these sorts of items on your countertop for too long can end up staining your granite. Instead, consider storing these items on a decorative tray or shelf.

As one of the most visible elements in your kitchen, the countertops you choose have a significant impact on how your room looks. The good news is that there are plenty of custom countertops in Butler, PA, to explore. Some of the most trusted include:

Granite: A classic standby that defines elegance, granite is almost impervious to heat, available in thousands of colors and types, low maintenance, and adds instant real estate value to a home. However, it is more expensive than many alternatives, harder to install, and may have imperfections due to its status as a natural material.

Soapstone: Less common but equally attractive to granite, this option offers a deep, vibrant color and a historic look. It may darken over time, though, and requires regular treatment with mineral oil. It also tends to dent and scratch, but this adds to its antique look for some.

Laminates: For those who need a more versatile and less costly alternative to stone, modern luxury laminates are an increasingly popular choice. It features thousands of design options, easy upkeep, and a fond place in the hearts of retro designers, but is less durable than stone and always has visible seams.

There are many more choices out there. Each has its benefits and drawbacks, but the essential part of choosing your material is matching its strengths to your needs. With a countertop that suits your lifestyle, you are sure to get the most from any remodel.

If you are looking at granite countertops in Wexford, PA, to complete your remodeling project, the first challenge is choosing the right color. Though it is essential to coordinate your counters with the rest of your décor, it is equally vital to understand the tone you set with color alone. Here are some of the most common choices and how they impact the room around them:

Black: Sleek, elegant, and classic, black granite is the perfect pairing for just about any existing space. Whether you want timeless wood features or modern, trendy design elements, this safe investment adds understated beauty.

White: Not quite as common as its color opposite, white granite is nonetheless perfect if you want to achieve a clean, modern look. Stunning with the right choice in shade, it can also make your kitchen look washed-out in the wrong lighting. Make sure to compare multiple surfaces if white is your chosen color.

Red: With a rich history that stretches back to the ancient pyramids of Egypt, red granite comes in many shades and often features blue, white, and silver highlights. It lends an energetic feeling to your kitchen and pairs well with neutral décor.

Blue: Versatile, inviting, and a staple in countless homes, blue granite is excellent for those who want plenty of choices and an easy time creating a cohesive look for the surrounding room.

Choose the right color for your new granite countertops in Wexford, PA. These quick tips help you match this vital element with your remodeling plans.