(Photo above: Neolith sintered surfaces, carried in our showroom. Sintered surfaces are manufactured by combining materials from various types of natural stone.)
With improving manufacturing technologies and evolving trends, more and more homeowners have been swapping out their old countertops for something fresh. Today’s options for countertop materials are becoming easier to clean, more affordable and offer ever-growing possibilities for colors and designs. We understand that choosing a new countertop that will best suit your needs can be confusing, so we’re here to break down some tips to lead you in the right direction.
- “Granite” Might Not Be What You Think It Is
Many homeowners seeking a stone surface for their countertop will come in to our showroom requesting granite. Granite is commonly misunderstood as an all-encompassing term for stone. It’s actually just one type out of several. The “granite” you might be seeking for your new surfaces may not be the stone you’re thinking of. Granite was hugely popular in the 80’s and 90’s, as it was considered the best deal thanks to its easy maintenance and color options. Granite is the least porous natural stone, and it was often used as an alternative to what was called Corian. You remember: the solid synthetic surfaces you’d find in grandma’s house? Despite its perceived benefits, we’ve actually been seeing the trend move away from granite. Granite is the most “speckly” looking stone, and it can tend to look very busy. We’re seeing more simple and elegant designs carry into 2018.
- Marble Doesn’t Have to be Your Dream Material
(Vadara Calacatta Blanco Marble.)
Marble has always been known for its unparalleled luxurious feel and look, and it’s highly sought after by homeowners looking for a high-end experience in their kitchen and bathrooms. Many people fear the cost of installing marble will forever be the barrier between themselves and their dream space. However, there are several unforeseen downsides to marble, like heavy maintenance and — yikes! — even staining. Marble is porous, and people have experienced their marble countertops scratching and holding on to odors like garlic or meat. Here’s a secret: we have something better. More and more people are turning towards Quartz to mimic those elegant veins and patterns that you see in marble. You don’t have to give up your marble entirely, though! Many clients will install a splash of marble on a few surfaces in their space where they’ll enjoy it often but it won’t be as susceptible to damage.
- Quartz vs. Quartzite: What’s The Difference?
(Caesarstone quartz, one of the top favorite brands here in the showroom.)
Quartzite is the name of the natural stone, and quartz is a manufactured material made from pieces of the natural stone. What would be the benefits of creating a man-made material from already natural stone? Stone requires a sealant to protect the surface from staining, scratching, or suffering temperature damage. However, quartz is non-porous, allowing for extremely easy clean-up. Our best-selling Caesarstone countertop options are a huge favorite among our clients, thanks to its unwavering promise of quality and luxury. The endless options for color and design make it an ever-growing popular choice. The only possible downside, in our humble opinion, is that it can cost a bit more than granite or tile. But, you really get what you pay for.
“Quartz is what everybody wants, especially here in the suburbs, because they have kids. You use a Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, and you’re done! The care is so easy for parents and they really appreciate that low level of maintenance,” says Laura Arkell, Sales Associate at Luxe Home.
Come see and feel our collection of countertop options at our 3,000 square foot showroom in downtown Lafayette! There’s endless options to choose from, and it all boils to how you want to use your new space and your own personal vision. We’re excited to help guide you in the right direction!