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If you have been planning a kitchen remodeling project, you can get a lot of inspiration from the recent trends. But the fact that there are many options also means there is a high potential for making costly mistakes.

Here are some of the best design tips for a successful kitchen renovation project.

1. Utilize Unity in Design

When remodeling your kitchen, think of function first. How are you going to use the space? The interior design may be superb, but renovations could make it harder to carry out chores.

By thinking of function, you can better incorporate essential aspects of the design like lighting and flow. You want the room to be appealing but also airy and spacious.

2. Think of Appliances as Part of the Design

The fridge, the range, and the oven will inevitably be part of your kitchen’s interior design. When planning a renovation project, consider the influence of appliances on the aesthetics of the room.

You can find matching sets of appliances from the same brand. It should make it easier to incorporate them into your new kitchen design.

3. Use Different Materials for Countertops

It is not necessary to use one type of material for countertops and backsplashes. You can mix them up to optimize both function and aesthetics.

For example, you may opt for quartz for busy working surfaces in your kitchen. You could choose marble countertops for counters where the stone will not be exposed to stains. Marble may be more suitable for the kitchen island rather than the sink. You can also customize either of the two surfaces (marble or quartz) to ensure your kitchen matches your vision.

4. Consider Maintenance Demands

You will want to keep your kitchen in immaculate condition. Some materials require a lot more work in terms of upkeep. Marble countertops are exquisite, but you’ll have to seal it regularly as it is porous.

Quartz is among the most durable stones and does not require sealing like marble. It is also resistant to stain and scratches. Other low-maintenance options include recycled glass, soapstone, and lava stone.

5. Maintain Plumbing

Any extensive kitchen remodeling project is likely to affect the plumbing. But it is best to avoid touching it during minor renovations to prevent extensive repairs afterward. You should make a point of consulting a certified plumber before making any adjustments that may impact your plumbing.

However, you can change components such as faucets to match your new design or theme.

6. Consider Resale Value

If you are following trends to get renovation ideas, it is wise to consider the resale value. Trendy options can be splendid, but they can lose their value fast.

A safer option would be to go for timeless materials like granite and quartz for your countertops. For your flooring, hardwood, laminate, and vinyl are the best for the resale value you can find in kitchen design stores. The idea is to add a contemporary style to the interior and still maintain its appeal for years to come.

There are many design ideas you can try in your kitchen. But you need to work on the functionality of the space before you focus on aesthetics. Also, make a point of hiring professionals for any extensive remodeling project you undertake. If you are looking for a custom fabricator of natural stone and quartz surfaces, contact Supreme Stone today, and we will get back to you in the shortest time possible.

Did you know that 34% of Americans remodeled their old kitchens in 2019 for one reason or another? When you’re looking to make changes in your kitchen, marble is one material that you should always have in mind. It is the most sought-after countertop material and comes with a host of benefits.

Let’s delve deeper into the reasons why you should consider marble when remodeling your kitchen.

1. Affordability

Since marble has a beautiful, elegant, and luxurious appearance, you might assume it’s high-end and unaffordable. The fact is that this particular countertop is cheaper than quartz, granite, and several other natural stones. Even though the costs vary with the thickness and type of marble countertop you choose, you’ll still spend less in the end than any other countertop option.

2. Heat Resistance

Marble possesses heat-resistant properties, unlike many other countertop materials. You can confidently place a hot pot or pan on the marble surface without worrying that your kitchen countertop will melt or burn.

However, there’s a likelihood of the stone cracking when regularly exposed to a lot of heat. You may also damage the finishing on your marble countertop in the process. Therefore, it is recommended that you always use trivets and hot pads when placing hot pans and pots on your kitchen countertop.

3. Durability

Although marble needs regular maintenance compared to a granite countertop, it is an extremely durable material. It doesn’t break or get scratched easily. It can also stay for a very long time, moreso than other manmade and natural stone countertops. You shouldn’t be surprised if you find a marble structure built decades ago still standing strong and looking great.

Marble’s durability isn’t compromised even with fancy finishes and edging styles. Nevertheless, you should take good care of your marble countertop to protect its finish.

4. A Timeless Look

Most people go for marble when they want a luxurious look for their homes. When you choose this material, your kitchen will have a stylish, timeless appearance that is difficult to achieve with other countertop materials.

Marble comes in a variety of colors and different design options as well. You can be sure your marble countertop won’t go out of style or look outdated for an extended period after installing it.

5. Long-lasting

If you opt for marble, you won’t think of replacing your countertop any time soon. This material is known for withstanding the test of time and was used during the Roman and Greece’s initial civilizations. The reason marble lasts for a long time is that it is soft at first but becomes dense and very hard as it ages.

You should note that, with time, marble tends to form patina. This is a thin brown or green layer produced by oxidation. Interestingly, some people adore this layer while others loathe it. If you’re among those that dislike patina, you can get rid of it by simply cleaning your kitchen countertop.

Final Thoughts

These great benefits make marble stand out from the pack as far as kitchen remodeling is concerned. Marble is cheaper than other countertop materials, durable, and has heat resistant properties. It also has a beautiful appearance and can last for a very long time.

Contact us today to learn more about marble countertops and the other options we offer! We look forward to hearing from you.

Investing in the upgrades of your kitchen is a great idea. Did you know that the average minor kitchen upgrade has an 81% return on its investment? This means that you can not only enjoy getting a new kitchen, but you can enjoy recouping much of your investment at the same time.

Quartz countertop additions in your kitchen can be a great idea, and you’ll learn why here. If you want to add natural stone to your kitchen, quartz is the way to go. Call your kitchen remodeling specialist and see why you should invest in your kitchen using the addition of quartz. You’ll love the countertop transformation.

Quartz is Durable

Quartz is a durable natural material, like how marble is. Quartz is heat and water resistant and makes for a solid material to use in the kitchen. If you like to use your countertop as a cutting board, then putting quartz countertops in can be the wisest choice.

A durable and fully functional kitchen is the best way to go. Speak to your kitchen remodeling specialist to see if quartz countertop ideas will work for your kitchen.

Quartz is Affordable

Quartz is an investment, yes, but an affordable one as far as investments in kitchen upgrades go. If you want to get a natural stone in your kitchen, then you might want to go with quartz, which is a great affordable option compared to other types of kitchen upgrade materials.

Ask your kitchen remodeling expert to show you the prices of all types of natural stone and other countertop options, including those for quartz. This can help you narrow down your choices overall and make buying new countertops easier for you.

Quartz is Versatile

If you want a specific design or color in your quartz countertop design, speak to your kitchen remodeling expert about the various color schemes and designs you can choose from. Keep in mind that even if quartz is available in a preferred color or design, the natural stone varies in style, so no two slabs are alike. This just adds to the allure of the natural stone.

When choosing a stone for your kitchen countertops, keep quartz in mind. Quartz is versatile, beautiful, can be used in various parts of your kitchen, and is long-lasting once installed. Get a quote for your installation from your kitchen remodeling specialist.

Granite countertops are a great addition to any home. Granite is highly durable. It can really stand up to a lot of abuse, but like all-natural stone surfaces, it needs to be cared for.

There is the right way to care for your granite countertops and a wrong way. If you are like 10% of homeowners that did a kitchen or bath redo it is important that you understand how to care for the surfaces. Learning how to care for your granite countertops properly is the key to enjoying their long-lasting beauty.

Let’s Dispel Some Of the Cleaner Myths

There is a lot of inaccurate information out there about how to care for your stone countertop. Granite countertops Bellingham homeowners have discovered should never be cleaned with any caustic cleaners, and what they also found out, sometimes natural cleaners can be caustic.

Lemon juice, orange cleaners, and other citrus-based cleaners contain citric acid which can leave tiny little etches in the countertop. You should also never use ammonia-based cleaners or tub and tile cleaners on any natural stone. The best cleaner to use is warm water and a soft cloth, or a manufacturer-approved cleaning agent.

Many well-known commercial cleaners are not well-suited for cleaning granite, marble and other stone surfaces. They can cause damage that can weaken the stone.

Do This

To keep your granite countertop looking showroom new, clean up spills immediately. Granite can stain. Cleaning up spills immediately can help to avoid staining. Use a soft damp sponge to wipe away grime. You can use mild dish soap but use it sparingly. The best option is to use a cleaner that is specifically formulated for granite countertops.

While granite is durable don’t make a habit of putting hot pots directly on the surface. Over time you can mar the finish. Use a trivet under hot pots.

You also want to break some bad habits to keep your countertop looking great. Do not put wet glasses and other wet items directly on the surface, use a coaster. Water rings are a rarity with granite but it can and has happened before.

Sealing

Whether you have to seal your countertop or not depends on what type of granite your countertop is made of. Before you make any decisions about DIY’ing sealant on your countertop, consult with an expert. It is always best to be safe than sorry when it comes to caring for your granite.

Many homeowners still view kitchen remodels as one of the most important aspects of a home renovation. Statistics from the National Kitchen and Bath Association shows that one in every ten households perform a kitchen remodel every year.

Arguably the most important work surface in the home, the countertop is a key feature that homeowners look forward to replacing. Quartz countertops are quickly gaining popularity in most homes. They surpassed the use of natural stone in kitchen remodels in 2018. The engineered quartz slab has versatile options available, is durable, and has lesser maintenance requirements. Below are six mistakes you are doing that are accidentally ruining your quartz countertop.

1. Not Cleaning Spills Immediately

Most homeowners make the mistake of waiting too long before they can wipe off spills on their countertops. While manufacturers like Bellingham quartz may market the slabs as stain-resistant, prolonged contact with acidic liquids may cause the surface to stain. As a good rule of thumb, always clean your spill as soon as it occurs with soapy water and a soft cloth.

2. Using Wrong Cleaning Supplies

Most experts recommend cleaning your kitchen surfaces at least once daily. However, using the wrong cleaning solutions on your quartz countertop can erode the beauty of the engineered stone. Too acidic or alkaline household cleaners can damage the resins on your slab, thus staining it.

3. Using Abrasive pads

Some homeowners use abrasive cleaning pads that starch and dull their quartz countertops. You should avoid hard-bristled brushes, scrubbing pads, and metal scourers at all costs. Use a gentle approach, preferably a soft rug to clean and a cotton cloth to dry. This way, your quartz surface will remain beautiful and shiny for a long time to come.

4. Scraping Stains Using Metal Objects

No matter how much you try to keep your kitchen clean, every once in a while, you might have to scrape off gunk that stuck on your surfaces. You risk scrapping off the paint on the fabrication countertops when you use sharp metal objects. Always use a plastic knife or scraper to remove the stain.

5. Cutting Foods Directly on the Countertop

Most quartz slabs, such as Bellingham countertops, are NSF-approved. They are safe for the preparation of food. However, with the right amount of force, using knives directly on the surface to chop and cut your ingredients can result in scratches. The small nicks and scratches gradually dull your surface and erode the beauty of your quartz countertop.

6. Placing Hot Appliances on Your Countertop

While quartz may be highly heat-resistant, prolonged exposure will damage the resin causing it to discolor. Temperatures above 300° F can spell bad news for your countertop. Besides, sudden extreme changes in temperature may lead to slab cracking. Avoid placing hot pots and pans directly on the countertop’s surface. You can use buffers such as cooking pads and trivets to protect the quartz from direct exposure to heat.

While quartz countertops are quite durable, they can get scratches, stains, or crack when not maintained properly. If you manage to avoid the six mistakes above, your countertop may last for years to come. For more information on how to better protect your quartz countertop, feel free to contact Supreme Stone.