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Kitchens are the most popular rooms for renovations, and they are also one of the most used rooms in the house. Because of this, it’s important to consider many different factors before settling on what is best for your renovation. For instance, many homeowners choose to install new countertops when renovating their kitchens. However, not all materials are made equal and some will be better than others when it comes to your specific needs and tastes. To help you understand more, let’s take a look at the greatest differences between two of the most popular kitchen countertop materials: quartz and marble.

1. The Material

To start off, it’s important to understand these materials, where they come from, and what makes them so special. Marble is a naturally occurring stone that is created when high heat metamorphosizes either limestone or dolomite rock. Marble countertops have a classic look and today they remain one of the most sought after countertop materials.

Quartz on the other hand is a man-made product that is created when natural stone is fused with a polymer resin. Quartz countertops are quickly rising in popularity due to their durability and elegant appearance.

2. Appearance

When choosing the best countertop for your kitchen, appearance is a huge factor to consider. Overall, because it is manufactured, quartz countertops tend to have more consistency overall when it comes to color and pattern. Quartz can also very closely mimic the appearance of natural stone, making it a solid choice if you still want a natural look. Alternatively, quartz can be found in bolder colors such as red and blue, allowing you a broader variety to choose from.

Marble, however, still remains popular due to its classic appearance and the ability to add a timeless elegance to any room. Because it is a natural stone, each slab will be uniquely colored and veined. This makes it a good choice for those looking for a one of a kind appearance that helps set their kitchens apart from the rest. Marble countertops are an investment that can also help increase your home’s overall value, which is another factor to keep in mind.

3. Care and Durability

Another thing to consider is the amount of care that a countertop will require, as well as its overall durability. If you don’t have a lot of time to spend maintaining your countertops, quartz is the lower maintenance option. Quartz countertops are both easy to clean and more durable, making it a good choice for busy homeowners or those with children. Because quartz is not porous, it won’t require additional sealing, and it can easily be cleaned with soap and water. It also won’t hold germs or bacteria. Additionally, it’s nearly heat resistant, and it won’t chip or dent as easily if it is impacted or cut.

Marble countertops can stand up relatively well against heat; however, it can be prone to stains in acidic substances that are left on it. These countertops will also require additional sealing to ensure that they stay in prime condition. Many stone experts recommend re-sealing marble every three to six months to preserve their quality and color. If your heart is set on marble, you would be wise to consider these additional costs so that you can factor them into the budget.

Which is Best for You?

Ultimately the right countertop for you will depend on your style, the amount of TLC you can provide, and your specific needs. While quartz countertops can be more durable and available in a wider variety of colors, marble still remains a popular choice that is worth keeping in mind.

If you’d like more information on these stones, reach out to a local custom stone fabricator to learn more about what they can offer and what they would recommend for you and your home.

Kitchen renovations are the single most popular remodeling option for homeowners. The National Kitchen and Bath Association estimates more than 10 million kitchens undergo remodeling each year. With countertops accounting for a significant portion (10%) of the total renovation budget, you may need to take time to choose the right fit for your home.

Quartz countertops are becoming increasingly popular among homeowners and kitchen designers alike. With a natural-looking profile minus the cleaning hassle, a quartz countertop can easily rival most other countertops. Here are some of the advantages of incorporating quartz to your kitchen renovation.

1. Durability

Quartz slabs are made up of approximately 93% natural quartz and 7% polyester resins and color pigments. Quartz ranks as the fourth hardest crystalline mineral, raking a 7.0 out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. A quartz countertop is virtually indestructible. They can withstand the rigors of daily life even in busy kitchens.

2. Low Maintenance Needs

Quartz countertops are non-porous and do not need the annual sealing standard in the natural stone counterparts. The smooth surface is easy to clean. It only requires a sponge and soapy water when cleaning. The resins make the engineered stone corrosion-resistant, preventing stains from penetrating beyond the surface.

3. Zero Health Concerns

Most quartz brands such as Bellingham countertops are NSF-approved, meaning the surface is safe for food preparation. The non-porous nature prevents the absorption of moisture, which may support bacterial growth. The quartz countertop doesn’t have radioactive elements common in other natural stone countertops.

4. Improved Aesthetics

Quartz countertops are visually appealing, given that the slabs come in various patterns, texture, and colors. Kitchen design stores now stock multi colored slabs with different flecks, swirls, and random patterns. From granite-esque designs to veining resembling marble countertops, you will be spoiled for choice.

How to choose the right quartz countertop

1. Select Your Preferred Color And Patterns

The first step is to shop around for different colors and patterns. Quartz slabs come in a wide color pallet. You may opt for the fiery red or a natural green hue. If you need a more earthly tone, you can go for brown, cream, or tan slabs. Remember to factor in lighting and the overall tone of your kitchen.

2. Finishing And Edging

Quartz countertops are available in a variety of finishing patterns. You can go with either a polished, matte, or rugged texture for your kitchen remodeling. The edge profile is another essential factor you need to keep in mind. Some of the popular edging styles include ogee, pencil round, bullnose, half-bullnose, bevel, and waterfall. A kitchen designer can help you choose the right profile for your kitchen space.

3. Thickness

The countertop is arguably the centerpiece within the kitchen. The thickness of the quartz slab used depends on your lifestyle. Thinner quartz countertops offer a minimalistic, contemporary look but are not fit for a regularly used kitchen. The thicker quartz slabs are bulkier and are the more durable option for frequently used kitchens.

Quartz is a popular choice among homeowners looking for durable and low maintenance countertops for their kitchen remodeling. You may need to factor in color, edging, and thickness of the slab when selecting your quartz countertop. For more information on the right stone for your kitchen surfaces, please contact Supreme Stone.

Up to 10% of homeowners chose to remodel a bathroom or their kitchen within the last year. Have you been considering remodeling? One of the most popular places to start a remodeling project is in the kitchen. But where should you start? Maybe you need a new sink, stove, or you just want to fully update your kitchen. The best place to start is with the countertops. The countertop is where all of the action happens in a kitchen whether you are cooking or not. It is the one space that is viewed more than the rest of your kitchen since it is the essential component that creates the foundation for any kitchen. The countertop is responsible for setting the feel and tone of the entire space.

Focus on Countertop Trends for Remodeling Projects

There is more to a trend than just understanding what is popular at the moment. What matters, are the designs, finishes, and materials used to put together an attractive kitchen. Trends give you great ideas concerning how you want to redesign countertops. Watch how trends focus concerning material choices and color. Currently, quartz countertops still reign supreme when it comes to kitchen remodels. You just need to use the services of a leading custom fabricator of quartz and natural stone surfaces to get the ideal look you desire.

Knowledge within the Stone Industry Really Counts

It’s one thing to decide you want a natural stone countertop, it’s another to actually choose the stone and understand all of the elements that go into getting the countertops you want. Use a custom fabricator with many years of experience and craftsmanship within the industry. They will ensure you get top-quality products whether you choose granite countertops, marble countertops, or quartz countertops. You won’t regret using one of nature’s most durable and exquisite elements that is sure to exceed your expectations.

What’s Trending When It Comes to Countertops?

It’s hard to beat the elegance of natural stones like quartz, marble, and granite. Those surfaces are being used in homes that want the wow-factor whether you want to use them for countertops, Jacuzzis, fireplaces, and more. Expect to see more natural stone factors in new and remodeled homes. Nothing beats a non-porous, durable material that comes in a range of patterns and colors. Kitchens across America are being revolutionized with natural stone countertops that look exquisite.

Polished or Honed, Which Do You Prefer?

Design movements tend to be fluid and ever-changing. Now the movement for more tactile and textured surfaces is entering the realm of countertops. Honed surfaces are becoming more popular. They can be applied to quartz, granite, and marble countertops too. However, a polished countertop is the most popular. What is the distinct difference between the two?

Consider a honed finish to be more like a matte finish without any shine or just a little shine. The look varies depending on the type of stone. Use a honed finish for marble since it doesn’t shine much and easily conceals scratch marks and flaws easily. A polished finish speaks for itself with a grand shine that is attractive in any home. Speak with a custom fabricator of natural stone to learn more about which surface type would look better in your home.

Natural Patterns and Textures Draw the Eye

Natural patterns and textures have a firm foothold in modern interior décor and design. More designers have started incorporating stone and wood into residential spaces so they offer an organic, calming vibe conducive to relaxation. Natural stone provides an interesting visual that draws attention to bold veining, striking patterns, as well as intriguing textures. There are also plenty of color variations in which to choose in regards to veins of marble including rose, green, and blue tones. No matter where you want new countertops in your home, natural stone is the best choice. There are many varieties in which to choose. Speak with a custom fabricator to learn which materials, sizes, styles, and finishes of natural stone look best in your home.

When you’re a multi-family property owner, the quality of your property is the backbone of your marketing. You may have the best social media marketing in the real estate industry, but if your property leaves something to be desired it isn’t likely you’ll find long-term tenants for your building.

Fortunately, even making minor improvements to your property can have significant rewards. A minor kitchen remodel, for instance, has a return on investment of up to 81%. To help you find tenants that will happily live in your multi-family property for years to come, here are a few tips you can use to turn your property into a quality apartment building.

Update the appliances

Old appliances are not only a no-no for most tenants but they can also be a hazard to your tenants and your property. For instance, old gas stoves are more likely to leak noxious fumes and pose a risk for fire or worse. Even old electrical appliances put your building at risk for short-circuiting. New appliances are more visually appealing to tenants. They’re also energy-efficient compared to old appliances, which can be another bonus for tenants or a bonus for you if you pay for your tenants’ utilities.

Upgrade your building’s laundry room

Coin-operated washing machines and dryers are another way landlords boost their revenue. However, you won’t be making any money in your laundry room if your machines are outdated and the room is scary. Tenants need to know that their clothes will be properly washed and dried or they’ll turn to a laundromat elsewhere to do their laundry. It’s also important for tenants to feel safe and secure in your building. Make sure your laundry room has plenty of lighting and quality floors that can be easily cleaned.

Install high-quality kitchen countertops

One of the biggest mistakes landlords make is installing cheap countertops in an effort to save money. However, you won’t be saving money if you need to replace your countertops when they’re scratched and damaged by tenants regularly. Installing quality materials such as a granite countertop not only allows you to price your rent higher for an ROI, but a granite countertop will also last longer so it’s smarter investment.

If you’re looking for quartz countertops, marble countertops, or granite countertops to transform your apartment building or multi-family property, SupremeStone has what you need. We’re the kitchen design store Boston trusts to provide great countertop options for a wide variety of kitchen designs. For more information about our countertop materials, contact SupremeStone today.

Homeowners who spend ample amounts of time in the kitchen like for the kitchen to reflect their style. Although style comes in second place to useability, kitchen remodeling remains a significant part of home buyers designing their home. The average home buyer spends over $10,000 on home renovations. The kitchen is one of the first rooms you see when you walk into your home. If you are cooking frequently, more than likely you have thought about your countertops. There are several design options to choose from for kitchen countertops.

What is the most popular design for countertops?

Marble countertops are the most popular countertops. Marble is durable, easy to clean, and easily accessible. Homeowners who choose marble countertops will see how many opportunities they have for customization. The marble countertops Boston residents like are the marble designs that are easy to shape. This makes for a smooth kitchen remodeling process. Marble is reflective, so it can reflect the light shining in the room. This will brighten up your kitchen if you like to entertain in that space.

What other designs can I use for kitchen countertops?

There are several design options of quartz and granite countertops Boston residents like. Homeowners can choose Bellingham quartz countertops with white, beige, and black designs. Bellingham countertops are a sophisticated addition to any kitchen design scheme. You can accent these countertops with colorful kitchen utensils, pots, and pans to make your kitchen look like it came out of a kitchen design store magazine.

Residents who visit kitchen design stores the most are Baby Boomers, who make up 81% of home renovations. The marble, quartz, and granite materials for fabrication countertops have, can create inspiration for homeowners. A kitchen’s design can be influenced by anything in the room. Visiting a kitchen design store can help you figure out the colors, designs, and patterns that are best for your kitchen.

Choosing marble countertops is one way to go if you like to be trendy. If you are a first time home buyer or a homeowner who is no longer interested in your old kitchen countertops, you can stand out. The range of designs for granite and quartz countertops Boston residents have is unparalleled!