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New Trends for Granite Countertops: White Carrara Marble

February 07, 2012

While marble is known to be a natural stone surface that requires higher maintenance, it is still one of the most coveted surfaces to have in the home. Since some homeowners are hesitant to choose marble countertops because of its susceptibility to stains, they are finding alternate ways to incorporate marble in the kitchen. A prominent trend in kitchen design that has emerged in the last couple of years is the marble backsplash. Designers and homeowners are turning to carrera marble and other white marbles to achieve eye-catching, dramatic backsplash. Here are some of the styles and applications in which this marble backsplash trend is appearing in the design industry. 

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Different Edge Options for Unique Granite Countertops

February 02, 2012

In the post below, we discussed how the type of edges chosen for granite countertops can enhance their beauty as a focal point in any style kitchen. So now we would like to explore some of the possibilities when it comes to choosing edges on granite countertops. The slightest variance in the shape of the edge can significantly affect the look of the stone. The edges that will optimize the form and function of granite countertops will depend on the size, style and layout of the kitchen. From the most common to the more customized, here are just some of the edging options that architects, contractors, designers and homeowners have to choose from. 

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Exquisite Granite Countertops for a Beautiful Focal Point

January 28, 2012

Every design requires a focal point. It is the element that draws the eye and directs it where to go. It helps create contrast and movement for a design that is cohesive and interesting. A timeless technique in kitchen designing is to create a focal point out of the island, particularly through countertop surfaces. Because of their unique, unrivaled beauty, granite reigns as a top choice for achieving countertops that make bold statements. Whether its through color, movement or shape, there are many different ways that granite countertops can be used to create fantastic focal points in a kitchen design. The sensational movement and extensive color variations of these granite countertops creates an bold, eye-catching focal point for the contemporary kitchen design.

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5 Easy Ways for Cleaning Granite Countertops

January 24, 2012

Keeping your granite countertops clean is crucial to protecting your stone investment. Although granite is the most durable stone surface in the industry, it can still be vulnerable to scratches or stains if it is not properly maintained and cared for. To help you keep your granite countertops looking new for years to come, here are five easy tips for cleaning granite countertops straight from the stone experts here at Marble and Granite

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Granite Countertops More Affordable Today Than Ever

January 20, 2012

Every single piece of granite is unique, which is why homeowners, architects and designers often prefer this natural stone over other countertop surfaces. But as of recent years, there is another reason why granite still remains one of the most popular countertop materials on the market. The cost of granite countertops has become more affordable. Here is what a kitchen designer told the Chicago Daily Herald in a recent article entitled "Price, Quality Make Granite King of the Kitchen Remodel?"

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Durable & Unique Granite Countertops vs. Durable & Consistent Quartz Countertops

January 10, 2012
Because of its unrivaled beauty and durability, granite continues to be the single most popular countertop material in the industry. But what some may not know is that quartz has become one of the fastest growing markets in the stone surface industry, according to an article from Remodeler Magazine. In the article, a marketing manager for a stone company makes an interesting comparison between the consumers for the two stone surfaces. 
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Top 5 Granite Countertop Colors for Trendy Kitchens in 2012

January 06, 2012
Colors affect our mood, especially when they are surrounding us in our home. Since the kitchen is the hub of the home and the center of most activity, you will want to choose the color scheme of your kitchen carefully to achieve a fun, comfortable and beautiful ambiance. From HGTV, here are the most popular color schemes and granite countertop colors that enhance the look and feel of the kitchen. To help you complete your color scheme, we will also provide suggestions for specific granite countertop colors for each color trend. 
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Exploring Granite Paint

March 24, 2011
[caption id="attachment_345" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="This granite paint has a beautiful finish and a pretty price tag but it lacks durability, longevity, and authenticity."][/caption]

If it looks like granite and feels like granite, just sit a hot pot on it and see what happens.

Granite is the standard for many of America’s modern, elegant kitchens. The market has seen an increase in granite imitators that consistently fail to offer the durability and beauty of natural stone. Granite paint is an idea that caught our eye and while there are a few undeniable benefits, potential buyers should also be aware of the disadvantages.

Giani offers a product called Italian Granite Paint. The kit includes mineral paints, applicators and an instructional DVD on how to transform your laminate, mineral, or wood countertops into what (sort of) looks like granite countertops. The kit is about $50.

One major drawback is that the granite-painted countertops do not perform like the real thing. It is easily scratched, burned, and stained. Sitting a hot pot on your counters will ruin them. You would need to sand and repaint them to get rid of the scorched spot. The paint also loses its luster significantly faster than granite.

If you want the appearance, appeal, and durability of natural stone we recommend buying natural stone. Marble and Granite will gladly outfit your spaces with the natural stone products that you desire and the quality that you deserve. Call 866.950.8443 or visit our website at marbleandgranite.com.

Source: Denver Post

Image Source: Erik M. Lunsford, St. Louis Post-Dispatch via Denver Post
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