Countertops are made of different varieties of natural stones like granite, marble, travertine, limestone, onyx. But granite is undoubtedly the most p...
Countertops are made of different varieties of natural stones like granite,
marble, travertine, limestone, onyx. But granite is undoubtedly the most popular choice for kitchen countertops, worktops and bathroom countertops due to its aesthetic appeal, durability and easy maintenance. Granite countertops play a significant role in both interior and exterior decoration of houses, buildings and monuments.
Granite countertops add everlasting beauty to your houses. Granite is one of the natural stones and is an excellent material for countertops, as it is the most durable of all the stones. Granite countertops are resistant to heat, scratch, stain, spills, moisture and hence can easily withstand the placement of a hot pot. Due to its durability and resistant properties, granite is the favourite material for countertops in home kitchens as well as professional kitchens.
Granite is very attractive stone that adds colour and warmth to any room. Granite comes in number of colours from variations of white through browns, reds, greens, blues, and black. Brown and beige tones are the most popular, as they work well with most any kitchen colour scheme. Some of the granite colours exhibit ‘movement,’ or a design within the natural colour. Movement from large patterns can carry the eye quickly over the surface of the countertop, while small patterns have a more sedate appearance. The combination of colour and movement means that no two countertops are exactly the same.
Installing granite countertops in your kitchens or bathrooms can change the look of the room dramatically. But this installation should be done carefully. It is not the case that installation of granite countertops is a difficult job, but granite stone accuracy and precision is important. The installation should be done by professionals only as it requires tremendous accuracy and all perfect measurements.
Even though Granite countertops have come down in price they can be a costly affair, but due to its eternal beauty and durability granite countertops will always be favourites of homeowners, architects and interior designers.
Marble Countertops – An Overview
Marble is an outstanding choice, when it comes to countertops. Marble is exceptional and attractive building material. It is largely used for creating bathroom countertops.
Marble is a metamorphic rock resulting from the metamorphism of sedimentary carbonate rocks, dolostone or limestone and so can be polished to a mirror-finish, which brings depth in its colour and looks gorgeous. Similar to other natural stones, marble can be an expensive choice. It is often used on specific areas of a room, instead of on all of the surfaces.
A warm and soft stone, marble is beautiful and luxurious. It gives a very elegant look to the room. Marble is durable and long-lasting, and comes in number of colours such as white, grey, pink, purple, green, gold, black and brown and veining patterns to create unique designs.
Marble is waterproof and heat resistant, but does require regular maintenance. However, marble is porous to stains, but you can reduce the porosity of the marble by sealing it with stone sealer. Also ensure any acidic food that spills on the marble immediately to prevent surface etching.
Marble countertops require regular maintenance to look attractive. Regular and proper cleaning of marble countertops is a must. To help you keep your marble countertops shimmering always here are a few tips:
* Clean the countertops frequently with mild dishwashing liquid detergent mixed in warm water.
* Wipe your marble countertops with a solution of baking soda and water.
* Clean the countertops using chalk. Dissolve chalk in water and rinse the countertop with this solution of.
* Avoid use of harsh cleaners and acidic cleaners on marble countertops.
With these simple tips and cleaning methods you can keep your marble shimmering always, and can always flaunt stylish, elegant and dazzling marble countertop.
