Preparation is the key to any project and installing a vanity is no different. Always wear safety glasses when working with power tools.

Measure the available space for your vanity before purchasing.

Measure the vanity height and width.

Measure and mark the height of the vanity from the floor in three different locations. Use the highest mark and draw the width of your vanity on the wall. Draw the left and right sides of the vanity on the wall. Make sure the lines are plumb and level. You should now have an outline of the vanity.. Locate at least one stud in the area outlined for your vanity.

Measure the location of the pipes and mark them on the back of the vanity.

Cut pipe holes in the vanity back. Make sure there is enough room for each pipe.

Installation

1.  Remove vanity doors before installing to avoid damage.

2.  Carefully slide the cabinet into place. Check to see if the vanity is level from side to side and front to back.

3.  If it isn’t level, put a wooden shim under the vanity to level it. Check to see if it’s plumb and square.

4.  Once the vanity is level, fasten it to the wall stud(s) through the nailer (piece of wood running across the back of the cabinet) using washers and 3″ wood screws.

5.  Recheck the vanity for level.

6.  Use a chisel and hammer to cut off the edges of the shims. Be careful no to damage your floor.

7.  Depending on how high the shims are, moulding may be needed on the bottom of the cabinet. Attach moulding using finishing nails.

8.  Reattach the vanity doors.

9.  Place a bead of latex caulk along the top edge all the way around the vanity.

10.  Set the countertop in place on top of the vanity. Press the countertop down and allow the caulk to completely dry.

11.  Install the sink and fixtures.

Travertine is the name normally given to a type of precipitated calcite associated with the cooling of waters around hot springs or in caves. Being formed very slowly it often incorporates dead matter such as tree debris that later rots away to leave a voided structure.
The performance of travertine greatly depends on the size and density of the voids, which, in most instances, are routinely resin surface filled before the finished stone is supplied. The nature of the fill material must be compatible with the travertine and not subject to discoloration or decay.

Traditionally travertine was naturally bedded and generally referred to as vein cut. Recently travertine cut face bedded and referred to as classico has appeared on the market. Whilst the vein cut material has a long and proven history of use, the cross cut or classico travertine has not yet proved to be as suitable because of surface collapse and filler failure. Before this material is considered, its limitations in performance must be taken into account.

Generally travertine is suitable only for internal flooring purposes, and then only after the most careful consideration. Strength may be lower than most other stones and the presence of hidden voids below the surface may lead to ongoing repair when the filling material collapses.

Unfilled travertine has been used for flooring purposes but only after strict quality control of the size and distribution of the voids. All travertine is imported.

GREEN MARBLE OR VERDE

Green or verde marble is considered separately to true marble because its origin is often the result of the metamorphism of rocks other than limestones. The green colour is typically derived from the presence of serpentine minerals. These minerals are relatively soft and the structure often weak, the stone commonly requiring reinforcement from matting glued to the underside.

Verdes are rarely used for whole floors and are preferred for providing coloured inserts to other flooring materials. Care must always be taken to ensure their compatibility with other stones.

A special consideration for any verde is the presence or otherwise of asbestiform minerals that may be naturally present e.g. chrysotile (white asbestos) and the amphiboles tremolite and actinolite. It may be prudent to establish that, where present, fibres of these minerals in the respirable range are not generated during any cutting, grinding and polishing operations, particularly if carried out dry.

The Asbestos (Prohibitions) Regulations have banned the import, supply and use of blue, brown and white asbestos (crocidolite, amosite and chrysotile respectively) essentially when part of an asbestos admixture product. Natural stone that contains chrysotile for example, and is used for flooring, would not be classed as an asbestos admixture product.

More Reading: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4

Stone is a material that man has used in building for several thousand years and it still lends itself to modern usage and design, and limestone in its various geological forms is probably the type of natural stone most widely used for this purpose. It occurs naturally in many parts of the UK with the limestones of the Jurassic period being those of most importance in this field. They run broadly in a belt from Dorset and Somerset in the south west, through the Cotswolds and Oxfordshire, on into Northamptonshire and Lincolnshire, to just north of the Humber.

Limestone is a sedimentary rock. Many of the commonly used varieties were formed by the accretion of the hard remains of former organisms such as corals and shells. These materials principally comprise calcium carbonate (calcite), as does the cement. Calcite is a relatively soft mineral and careful selection will be needed when you choose this for use as flooring. Variations in the types and quantities of shell and other remains and the nature of the cement provide a huge range in the types of limestone available.

The limestones of these areas were used for building in Roman times and, in later centuries and to-date, have been the traditional building material of their localities, Many buildings throughout these counties bear witness to this. In addition, some limestones are extensively used outside their areas of origins as is evidenced by the many fine buildings to be seen throughout the British Isles, particularly in major cities and towns. Cathedrals, churches and numerous public and private buildings provide outstanding examples of the durability and beauty of these limestones and they show through the skill of the mason, how this stone is so eminently suitable for producing masonry of excellence in all aspects of plain and detailed work that may be required. Among the better known limestones of the Jurassic age are those of Purbeck, Clipsham, Ancaster, Ketton, Bath, Doulting and Weldon, whilst Portland stone is a characteristic feature of London architecture. From the earlier Carboniferous age come the limestones of Derbyshire and Cumbria such as Hopton Wood, Sheldon, Orton Scar and Salterwath.

Imported limestones, most notably French, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Turkish, Egyptian and Israeli are also available in the UK.

Appearance

The colours of limestones range from almost white to the warm honey tone of Bath stones with grey/blue and darker browns a feature in some limestones. Textures range from fine even grained stones to the smooth fossil bearing types and to the coarse open textured Portland roach. Certain limestones such as Purbeck and Hopton Wood take a polish and can be used as “marbles”.

Applications

Limestones are used extensively in both new building and restoration where their ease of working facilitates the production of cladding, ashlar and other forms of walling. They are also suitable for flooring.

Many limestones are particularly suited to carved and moulded work. Components such as cills and jambs, soffits and copings, heads and mullions are readily produced to add interest and enrichment to building facades.

Performance

Limestones generally have good load bearing properties and weathering characteristics although correct detailing is important as with all building materials. Limestones must not be used above sandstones on exterior elevations.

The properties of individual types of stone can vary considerably and advice should always be sought on the selection of suitable stones, both for general and particular applications.

MARBLETrue marbles in the geological sense are metamorphosed limestone and are principally composed of recrystallised calcite formed into an interlocking granular structure. Some hard or partially metamorphosed limestones are incorrectly referred to as marble, even though they exhibit many of the characteristics of marble.

In its ‘purest’ state marble is typically white, however the presence of other minerals can often provide colour(s). In some cases the colour appears as irregular shaped patches (brecciation) or as substantial veining. Specialist advice should be obtained as to the suitability of such marbles in particular locations.

Greater care must also be taken during installation as other construction defects easily taint the pureness of marble, particularly from underlying materials, and may result in staining at a later date.

It is common to use marble with a highly polished surface finish and, as a consequence, slip resistance should be carefully considered. Marble is imported.

QUARTZITES

Quartzites are typically the metamorphosed product of an original sedimentary rock e.g. sandstone, composed almost entirely of quartz.

In general quartzites are hard wearing, have low porosity, a high compressive strength and good durability making them suitable for use as flooring. The metamorphic varieties in particular may be brittle and so some care is required in assessing a material prior to use. While composed largely of quartz, the presence of some impurities can lead to the development of different colours and the typical range is from white to yellowish brown, through to green, brown, gold, grey and blue. In Eire, the metamorphic quartzites have a complex geological history which has tended to result in them having a relatively small natural block size. All operating quartzite quarries in the British Isles occur in Eire. Elsewhere quartzites are commercially available from Norway, Sweden, Italy, South Africa, USA and Brazil.

More Reading: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4

1) Step One

Plan a masonry project. You must know your project before you pick a surfacing stone for a masonry project. The type of project narrows your choices based on industry standards and durability. For example, you don’t want to use travertine tile for a driveway or marble for your floor.

2) Step Two

Pick a pattern. The type of surfacing stone you choose may depend on the pattern. You need to decide what colors to use. Also you need to know the size of the stone that will be used in the masonry project. You need to pick a surfacing stone that lends itself to your pattern.

3) Step Three

Consider problems caused by wear and tear. Each type of stone wears differently with age. Common problems include chipping, cracking, crumbling and pitting. You need to find out what problems typically occur with your main choices for stone.

4) Step Four

Find out what type of maintenance is required. Different stone types need to be cleaned in specific ways. You need to know how to clean, when to clean it and with what to clean it. You must also know if need to use a sealant and how often it must be reapplied.

5) Step Five

Choose between natural stone and manufactured stone. A manufactured stone is a man-made concrete product. You need to consider a manufactured stone if you have a small budget. The manufactured stone looks like natural stone but costs less to purchase and install.

6) Step Six

Decide if you are going to do the work. You need to pick a surfacing stone equal to your personal skills if you plan to do the work. Some stone types like tile are easier to install than others. You must consider hiring a contractor for more expensive stones like marble. You should ask to see a portfolio prior to hiring a contractor.

The Hospitality Institute of Technology and Management in Minneapolis conducted the study comparing Dakota Mahogany Granite from South Dakota, Uba Tuba Granite from Brazil, Carrara White Marble from Italy and Snowdon White engineered stone by Cambria. None of the stones were “sealed” or otherwise treated.

The test organism used for the study, according to Dr. O. Peter Snyder, Jr. of the Hospitality Institute was E.coli A TTC #25922, a non-pathogenic E.coli. It was spread on each countertop surface and allowed to dry for 15 minutes. The surfaces were then cleaned by a variety of typical, everyday, household methods.

“Overall, there was no statistical difference in reduction after wash and rinse for any of the four surfaces,” Dr. Snyder said. “This indicates that the differences in surfaces used in the tests did not make a significant food safety difference in cleanability.”

“The prevention of cross contamination of pathogens on kitchen counters is very important to protecting the health of the family,” said Gary Distelhorst, executive vice president and CEO of MIA, “The study shows conclusively that natural stone and engineered stone essentially have the same level of cleanability, which is important for consumers to know.”

The limestone tiles require high maintenance due to their soft texture. They are prone to scratches and stains, which makes them least durable. At times, the texture of the tiles loses its luster. Its color fades away and becomes dull. The streaky appearance needs to be dealt with care to maintain the life of the stone.

This occurs due to inappropriate cleaning methods. Sometimes we use harsh chemicals and detergents on the flooring. At times, you fail to rinse the flooring after the cleaning process. The dust and chemicals on the surface get accumulated and produce streaks on the tile surface.

The physical characteristics of limestone are similar to glass tiles. Whenever, you spill water on the glass window and fail to wipe it, you can find the stains of water that gets trapped on the screen. Similarly, the water that lays on the limestone tiles gets dried up to produce streaks on the surface.

These stains can be cleaned easily. Firstly, purchase a heavy duty tile cleaner. Mix it in 1:4 parts of water. Stir the mixture thoroughly and spread it on the floor. Allow the mixture to soak on the floor for 10 to 15 minutes. Now, clean the floor with fresh water.

Clean the floor thoroughly so that you can’t find a trace of cleaner or stain on the surface. Remember to buff dry the surface with a cotton pad or cloth. This ensures that there aren’t any water deposits on the surface. Thus, you’ll be able to maintain the shine and shimmer of limestone tiles for a long time.

The process is cumbersome and difficult to realize on every day basis. Hence, you should conduct the regime at least once in a week or fortnight. These simple care and maintenance techniques can bring back the beauty of the unique natural stone.

The term sandstone is used to describe almost any stone of sedimentary origin with a granular texture. Some other types of stone that may fall under this classification include gritstones, siltstones, greywackes, conglomerates and marls. Aside from particle size variations, the dominant factor affecting sandstone performance is the grain cement that may be siliceous, calcareous, clay bearing or iron-rich.

Geologically it is a sedimentary type rock made up of various mineral particles mainly quartz, mica and felspar. All these minerals are bonded together with natural cements such as silicas, calcium carbonates, iron oxides and clays. The individual make up of each sandstone gives a wide range of colours. A pure silica sandstone is white with the colours arising from other minerals. Iron oxides can cause the stone to vary from buff or brown through to the deepest red. Grey colour stone is due to the presence of clay and green could indicate the presence of glauconite which contained potassium.

Sandstone is a natural material traditionally regarded as the building stone of the North. However, sandstone can be seen throughout the United Kingdom in many prestigious buildings from structures which form part of our heritage to modern office blocks.

Sandstone is traditionally used as a building material in many areas where it occurs locally particularly in Derbyshire, Yorkshire and the North East of England, Wales and Scotland. Many of the “stone cities” of the North derive their particular architectural character from the use of sandstone.

Most of the major sandstone quarries working today are located in the North of England, Derbyshire and Scotland. For flooring purposes, sandstones are also imported.

Appearance

Sandstone has many colours ranging from white, grey and buff to various shades of pink and red.

The colour and texture of stone is self evident, however the colour of dry stone can change quite dramatically on wetting. Natural weathering can play a major part in the change of colour. Such colour change can sometimes be viewed on abandoned faces of the quarry although it is much more important to view existing buildings constructed from the same stone.

Sandstones generally have an even texture, which may vary from course to fine, but the stone from some quarries also show attractive natural markings.

Applications

Many types of sandstone are suitable for paving or flooring. Some can be split (”riven”) otherwise the normal finish is sawn. Tooled, sandblasted and flame textured finishes are also available.

There is a vast variety of surface finishes available from the traditional rubble walling to wrought stonework with its finishes to different forms ie. boasting, pitched, broached, hammer dressed and rusticated, to the very intricate looking vermiculated. But most importantly, credit must go to the craftsmen who hue the sandstone to all the various forms from large stones with a high degree of moulding to the most intricate of carving work. Sandstones are suitable for blcok construction in most building and engineering work and can now be cut to relatively thin sections for cladding to steel framed or concrete structured buildings.

All in all sandstone is one of the few historic natural minerals still in use today. It provides excellent durability and is virtually maintenance free. It is aesthetically appealing to the eye whilst giving great value for money to the client.

Performance

Most sandstones have good load bearing and weathering properties. Correct detailling with regard to weathering is of prime importance, especially on buildings designed with sloping surfaces and without overhangs. Great care is required in the design of non-ferrous cramps and corbels for fixing to structures.

SLATE

Slate is found extensively, throughout the British Isles and has, for centuries, been a major source of building stone. Historically, and, in common with other stones, it was first used in and around the immediate areas of availability.

The term slate is often used to describe any rock that can be easily split into thin sheets, principally for roofing purposes. True slate is defined by the presence of a ’slaty’ cleavage; this allows the slate to be split at almost any point through the stone parallel to the cleavage plane. Most true slates are metamorphosed sediments, often formerly mudstones; however, some British “slates” are derived from volcanic ash sequences and are not true slates in the strict geological sense.

Appearance

The major UK sources of slate, with their distinctive colours, are the Lake District blue/grey, light green, olive green and silver grey, North Wales blue, grey, blue-black and red, and Cornwall – grey.

Slate is easily split (”riven”) into thin sections, giving a natural finish. Other finishes include sawn, sanded, fine rubbed, flame textured, bush hammered and water jet.

Applications

From the very early, basic applications, British Slate is now used for very wide and diverse purposes. Modern quarrying and machine processes allow prime blocks to be sawn or split into large slabs and a variety of thicknesses. Current products include: roofing, cladding, cills, copings, flooring & paving, treads, plaques & memorials, worktops & fireplaces.

Slate is typically a very durable construction material and rarely exhibits visible degradation, even when placed under extreme atmospheric conditions for many years. For flooring purposes U.K. slate is unlikely to delaminate or exhibit efflorescence.

High flexural strength and typically very low porosity makes slate eminently suitable for flooring purposes and it requires little maintenance.

Caution should be exercised when choosing material marketed as slate as some may not be suitable for flooring. If any doubt exists about the material being considered, specialist advice should be sought.

Very thin, split, natural riven sections are used for roofing and the same methods produce thicker material for flooring and cladding. Slateis readily available in sawn, fine rubbed and other finishes wuch as sand-blasted and flame textured.

Performance

British Slate has a proven record of durability and being supplied fit for its intended purposes. This is readily seen on countless buildings in the UK and many areas of the world. Such examples of installation are witness to the ability of slate to withstand the rigours of extreme atmospheric conditions. Slate is extremely stable and will not degrade, warp or twist. Quality Assurance, management systems are widely used throughout the industry.

More Reading: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4

Architects, specifiers, designers, clients; choosing and using stone is an experience and one for which we recommend you ask for professional advice. Stone is a naturally occurring material and as such, has to be chosen like no other building material. Stone Federation members are fully trained, experienced and competent professionals who should be consulted as soon as you decide to use natural stone on your project. They can advise you and prevent any costly mistakes being made before it is too late.

Domestic use of stone

Using stone in your home or property can enhance your living space but you must be aware of the questions to ask when making your choice of stone.

Stone, correctly selected, can enhance the value of your property and be durable, and virtually maintenance free. However, incorrectly selected it can cause you problems. By purchasing stone you are making an investment so protect your money and get the right advice. Stone Federation suggests you always consult the experts first.

General types of natural stone

Classification

There are many different classification schemes for stone, which have prompted the industry to simplify descriptions. This has led to many problems when, for instance, a stone laid as a granite is actually found to be a different stone type altogether and does not perform as expected. The British Standard BSEN12440 (Denomination of natural stone) addresses the classification problem and insists upon the correct identification of stone type and origin. For the purposes of this guidance however, the simplified descriptions remain and it must be stressed that all stones should be considered individually for their merits in whatever use they are being considered for.

GRANITE

The term granite has been applied to almost any igneous stone that can retain a polish. True granites provide many of these stones but other types of igneous stone that may fall into this classification include syenites, gabbros, dolerites, and diorites. The metamorphic stones gneiss, schist and granulite are frequently also included in this granite classification.

The formation of these igneous rocks by the slow cooling of molten minerals such as quartz, feldspar and hornblende has resulted in a wide variety of colours and grain patterns.

In the United Kingdom the quarrying of granite is concentrated in a small number of locations. Those of particular importance may be found in Devon and Cornwall, Cumbria, at Peterhead and Aberdeen and on the east coast of Scotland.

The main sources for imported granite are Scandinavia, South Africa, Sardinia, Portugal, Spain, India, North America, China and Brazil.
Applications

The interlocking crystal structure imparts both the high strength and low porosity necessary for a wide range of applications other than just flooring; these characteristics are also important in allowing successful use of slabs that are thinner than other types of stone.

Appearance

The immense colour choice includes fine and medium grained silver grey from Devon and Cornwall and fine grained pink from Scotland, whilst other countries provide dense, very fine grained materials with reflective crystals such as larvikite (e.g. blue and emerald pearl) from Norway; reds from Scandinavia and India; large grained brown from Finland; yellows from Brazil; and the delicately mottled greys, fawns and pinks from Sardinia.

The surface finish affects the appearances of granite and those available include sawn, flame textured, dolly pointed, fine axed, rough punched, honed, bush hammered and water jet. It is in the gloss polished form, however, that these granites reveal fully their colours and grain patterns.

Performance

Very hardwearing and physically strong, granite is largely unaffected by erosion, pollution or atmospheric attack. Facades are generally self cleaning, although eye level areas benefit from occasional cleaning as for glazing. A polished finish is almost indestructible.

More Reading: Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4

Because of their inherent durability, maintaining clean granite tiles is not that hard at all. If you have a granite countertop in your kitchen, just make sure you clean it after each time you cook. Wet a soft cloth and use that to apply dishwashing soap on the countertop, and voila! you have clean granite tiles instantly.

There is one thing you have to know about granite tiles, though. Even though the rock itself is very hard and resistant to scratching, granite tiles are covered in a kind of sealant. This sealant give the granite tiles their shine and protects them from getting stained.

Acids are damaging to the sealant, and there are actually many common household chemicals that are acidic, such as cleaners, acidic solutions, hairspray, toothpaste, and perfumes. Acids can also be found in certain foods like orange juice, coffee, vinegar, and a lot more. It is vital to clean granite tiles right away when these kinds of substances are spilled onto the surface.

This is best done by employing the use of a sponge to soak in the offending substance first. Do not wipe it right away, as the spreading of the acid might aggravate the situation. Also, if there are tiny granules in the spilled substance, take extra care in removing them as well, to avoid grazing the sealant.

When wiping down your granite tiles, try to avoid using the acidic detergents or cleaners. Instead of ending up with clean granite tiles, you will just be helping in weakening the granite’s protective sealant. Instead, use those cleaners that have a neutral pH balance. There are also certain cleaners specifically designed for granite tiles. It may be more difficult to use these, though.

Even when you are certain that you have clean granite tiles all the time, and even if the sealant looks fine to you, it is advisable to reapply a coat of sealant about twice a year. When your granite tiles are installed in an area where there is much spillage going on, then you would have to reapply sealant more often. The frequency really depends on where your granite tiles are installed and how they are being used.

When selecting a natural stone countertop, consumers can look at the different types, finishes, appearances, thicknesses and textures, which make up the beauty of natural stones. One great thing about natural stone is that no two stones are alike, making every single kitchen one of a kind. There are many forms of natural stone that consumers can choose from: granite, marble, soapstone, slate and Jerusalem stone.

Considered second to diamonds in hardness, granite is the most popular choice. Granite is chosen for durability and its rich composition of quartz crystals, mica, and feldspar trapped within. With granite, consumers don’t have to be afraid of placing a hot pot on the countertop due to its heat resistance, and shouln’t fear of scratching it, since only granite or diamond can scratch the surface. Granite is also resistant to the acidic products found in every kitchen. Because all stones are porous, a special sealant is required. Granite only needs to be resealed once a year.

Chosen for its smoothness and vein-like textures, marble is added to a section of a whole countertop by those who like to bake. Because marble is a softer stone, it is more porous which makes it susceptible to scratches and stains, requiring frequent sealing. Both granite and marble give off different appearances compared to other natural stone products, which is why they are popular.

Soapstone, known as “original stone countertop,” is becoming just as popular as granite. Soapstone is quarried just like marble and granite with components of magnesite, dolomite, chlorite and talc. Many people are attracted to having soapstone as a countertop because of its soft feel; however, it can easily scratch. Soapstone won’t etch from acids, and stains can be rubbed out easily. Soapstone comes in colors of blue, green and gray, and if mineral oil is applied consistently, it will bring out a charcoal-gray color making it look older and much more elegant.

Slate countertops are liked because of their high resistance to heat, but are highly susceptible to scratches. Composed of seabed, slate stone reflects hues of dark green, blue, and black. Just like soapstone, if mineral oils are applied to it, the colors will be enhanced to a darker glowing hue.

A new countertop in the market is Jerusalem Stone, which resembles the sandy tones of limestone, but is not as porous and soft. As the name suggests, it’s quarried from areas around Jerusalem. Many people like Jerusalem Stone because of its durability, which is like granite, and its smoothness, which is comperable to marble.

One reason why natural stone is a favorite for a countertop is that the finishes applied add on to the beauty and durability. Some popular natural stone finishes are polished, honed, flamed and tumbled. Polished natural stone countertops have a high gloss surface that gives off a mirror-like reflection. Honed finish is a hard surface with a smooth, matte look to it. This finish is very soft to the touch with a fuzzy reflection. When a flamed finish is applied to the stone, it is exposed to intense heat, creating a texture on the surface. To make a natural stone appear worn and old, a tumbled finish is applied. There are other finishes to choose from, but it’s all about what the consumer prefers and the uses of the countertop.

New to the countertop market and put into the same category of natural stone is engineered quartz. Many manufacturers are challenging the market share of natural stone by combining 93 percent of natural quartz with 7 percent resin to create a highly durable material that is twice as strong as granite. This product has been around for 15 years in Europe and just recently has been marketed in North America. Engineered quartz offers a countertop that is non-porous and stain resistant. The slabs being manufactured have uniform colors and patterns, making it easier for consumers to know that they will get what they want. Unlike granite, engineered quartz doesn’t require a sealant, just a cleaning on a regular basis. The only drawbacks with this type of countertop is that a hot pad or trivet is required when placing a hot pan on it, and it is as expensive as granite – about $70 to $300 per square foot. Top manufacturers of engineered quartz such as Cambria, DuPont Zodiaq, and Consentino Silestone offer an array of colors, patterns, finishes and textures.

While natural stone looks very attractive, when installed in solid pieces it is highly expensive, about $50 to $300 per square foot. The money invested is worth the quality, value, and the durability these countertops will have. An option that many consumers take to save money is having the natural stone cut into pieces and placing them like tiles. Another affordable option is placing a slab over an existing countertop.

Both natural stone and engineered quartz require the proper maintenance to avoid any discoloration, scratches, or other costly damages. Natural stone requires special sealants about every six months to a year. Always avoid acidic cleaners or solutions to prevent severe damage to the countertop. Although engineered quartz doesn’t need to be sealed, special cleaning products must be used according to the manufacturer’s directions.

Countertops are the most looked at for a kitchen-remodeling project to bring out the beauty and elegance of kitchen. Countertops can take a moderate looking kitchen and turn it to a kitchen out of a magazine or remodeling show. For many consumers, having a countertop that will be long lasting, durable and elegant such as natural stone is worth the cost.

If budget allows, granite countertops offer the ultimate in beauty and functionality and elevate any kitchen to a level of sophistication and glamour. For those who do choose granite the choice is rarely regretted. It offers a lifetime of style and streamlined workspace for those who love to be in their kitchens.

Of course, choosing granite is not the last decision that must be made when it comes to these countertops. There are a wide variety of colors available from which homeowners can choose – so as to best complement their kitchen design.

A natural stone that was first discovered in the 1800s, granite as a material in the home first became fashionable in the 1850s when a polished piece was put on display in a London exhibition; soon this durable and beautiful material become fashionable for use in floors and countertops in the wealthiest of homes. While it’s true that early on only the very rich could afford it, today it is available to homeowners with all manner of budgets. However, it is still considered to be one of the more expensive materials on the market today.

Granite countertop owners choose the material regardless of its price for two reasons: beauty and durability. Because it is a natural stone it has a natural appeal that cannot be replicated by machine; it is a truly stunning material that brings out the natural beauty in any room. Further, it is strong and solid, impervious to heat, scratches, and even impact.

Today’s granite countertop colors available to consumers is extensive. From greens and reds and browns and blues to gray, black, and white, it can be purchased in any color tone so as to best complement your existing kitchen decor or further a new design theme. This versatility gives granite another advantage in the kitchen and homeowners looking to renovate their space appreciate the choices.

The countertops can be purchased pre-cut to fit standard sized kitchen spaces. Within these sizes, you will find a wide array of colors from which to choose. But there is also the ability to have it custom cut to fit a non-traditional space. Granite shops allow you to choose the stone that you would like, after which professionals will cut it to fit your existing kitchen plan.

This affords the consumer another opportunity to mix and match color combinations in an effort to best complement their kitchen space. Granite countertop colors are really only limited by your imagination as you can certainly pick and choose pieces of stone from various places and put them together in a cohesive kitchen design. Think outside the box when it comes to shopping for granite; you may be surprised at the unique and creative color combinations available to you from a host of dealers.