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    Countertop Materials That Will Change Your Home Aesthetics

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    Kitchen island eye level view

    Granite, marble and quartz countertops can be mesmerizing!

    If you’re familiar with engineered and natural stone countertops, then we’re sure you know how sophisticated and stylish these three are. A few makeovers and upgrades with one of these top three  countertop materials and you could see your home sell faster.

    Certain countertop projects can impact the resale value of your home. In October’s blog, we’re going to look into the benefits of investing in granite, marble and quartz countertops.

     

    What’s so special about these three types of countertops?

    There is a reason why homeowners throughout eastern North Carolina insist on quartz, marble or granite countertops. When searching for the right countertop choice durability, ease of maintenance, availability of colors and uniqueness are all factors worth considering.

    Home buyers are looking for countertops with warmth, sophistication and class of natural stone, even if it is engineered, and all three of these materials meet these criteria.

    There are also some homeowners whose definition of quality is tied to the uniqueness of patterns and colors of a material. Again, these can also be found in these materials.

     

    Upgrade your countertops, even if you are not planning an immediate resale.

    Quality kitchen countertops are a major factor of not just the kitchen, but also with how a homeowner interacts within their living space. If the countertops are not what they want or need, they may choose to avoid spending time in a room that should be one of the most welcoming areas of a home.

    If you find that you are no longer enjoying your kitchen, then it may be time to invest in quality countertop materials.

     

    Why Chose Granite?

    If you have plans to sell your home, the dollar value of granite combined with their appeal can spark the interest of buyers. Having granite countertops in your home’s kitchen, adds an elegance to that room.

    When you invest in granite countertops, you will have durability in your kitchen, plus it will pass the test for beauty and appeal. The durability of granite countertops makes them more appealing to both current homeowners and future buyers.

     

    Why Quartz Countertops?

    You can definitely find  inexpensive engineered countertops such as laminate and solid surfaces, but you should remember that the durability and quality of a countertop is reflected in its price.

    You can get the same look of natural stone countertops with maximum durability in quartz. Just like with granite countertops, quartz countertops will last a lifetime if you want them to.

    The best benefit of quartz countertops is that they are non-porous which makes them easy to keep clean. All you need to keep quartz countertops clean is soap, water and a sponge.

     

    Why Invest in Marble Countertops?

    There are a lot of manmade materials that have been designed to look like marble, but they will never be able to mimic the original marble. Marble is formed from sedimentary rocks and limestone through a natural heating process.

    The veining you see in marble countertops are the impurities trapped in the rock as the Earth’s heat and pressure turned it into marble. This makes each piece of marble have a unique appearance.

     

    If you are searching for an experienced countertop fabricator in eastern North Carolina, look no further than C & C Stoneworks. Let us help you get the best return on investment from your new kitchen countertop, give us a call to speak with a team member today.

    What is the Role of a Kitchen Countertop Fabricator?

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    Kitchen counter, island, and stovetop

    What is the role of a kitchen countertop fabricator?

    A kitchen countertop fabricator, such as C & C Stoneworks, is a stone specialist with substantial knowledge of manipulating and templating engineered or natural stone countertops.
    Making sure you are working with a skilled fabricator is essential to the outcome of your countertop project. The countertop specialist will work on the templating and fabrication of the stone off-site before taking the countertop to your home for installation.

    C & C Stoneworks offers the convenience of one-stop shopping so you will be part of the entire countertop fabrication process. Our professional fabricators will keep you involved so you will know what is happening throughout the process and you won’t have to outsource for extra services.

     
    What is the role of a fabricator?

    The job of the kitchen countertop fabricator involves cutting and templating large blocks of natural stones to fit the exact dimensions of the installation area.

    Prior to cutting the stone, the fabricators at C & C Stoneworks will visit your home to take measurements of the installation area. They will also transport the slab from the showroom to your home the day of the installation.

     
    Why work with a local kitchen countertop fabricator?

    We think it’s important to work with a local countertop fabricator since they are familiar with the area. Working with someone from the area will also ensure your project is carried out smoothly with a great emphasis on quality customer service.

    A local fabricator can also save you money because they are within the region, and transportation charges can be less. A local company should be able to provide you with plenty of background information and references, so you know who they are, who they’ve worked with and have seen samples of their work. Working closely with a fabricator should be educational and enjoyable.

    At C & C Stoneworks, you can meet and work with our design consultant, Mandy, in our showroom. You will be able to see what materials are available and she can help you decide what countertops, color and pattern will work best for your home and lifestyle. She will also give you a timeline for the fabrication and installation process.

     
    Does the countertop fabricator handle the installation?

    If you are working with C & C Stoneworks, the answer is “yes.” We will handle the installation of your countertops. We understand the materials, and this ensures an excellent installation job by our team.

    If you are looking to add value and beauty to your home, contact the team at C & C Stoneworks for the design, fabrication and Installation of your new kitchen countertops. We prioritize your design, and back up all our jobs with excellent customer service.

    Give us a call to schedule a consultation today, 252-902-5535.

    Natural Stone Beyond the Kitchen and Bathroom

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    You can enjoy natural stone throughout your house. The beauty and durability of natural stone make it a popular material choice for bathroom and kitchen countertops. However, the same qualities that make natural stone great for countertops are the same reasons they are a wonderful choice for other parts of your home.

    As a homeowner, you can extend the beauty of natural stone into other rooms in your house by using natural stone on a bar top, island, fireplace or floor.

     

    Bar and Island Tops

    Natural stone makes a wonderful choice in rooms where a lot of entertaining takes place because of their dramatic look and impressive beauty. Bar surfaces have to stand up to spills and abrasions and fortunately, there are natural stone options that can withstand these challenges.

    Natural stones such as granite and marble embrace the best that Mother Nature has to offer and create stunning focal points to your entertaining spaces. The right stone can create ambience and style, all while withstanding the heavy use that comes from entertaining, something other materials cannot match.

     

    Fireplaces

    A natural stone fireplace makes a stunning focal point for your family and living areas. Since marble and granite are both wonderful materials for a fireplace, choosing between the two can be difficult.

    A marble fireplace surround can add elegance and visual appeal to a room. Marble can withstand heat and is available white, green, and gray color options. A granite fireplace surround is also heat-resistant and very easy to maintain. Granite is available in a wide variety of colors, making it very easy to find the perfect option for any home décor and style.

    Fireplace surrounds are not the only option for incorporating natural stone into your fireplace design. It is also possible to include a marble mantel or a granite hearth even if the rest of your fireplace is not made of natural stone.

     

    Flooring

    The beauty of a natural stone floor does not have to be confined to any particular room of your home. While durability makes natural stone flooring more practical than other flooring materials, homeowners tend to choose natural stone flooring for its luxurious appearance. Granite flooring and marble floor tiles are one-of-a-kind, meaning no two natural stone floors will ever be exactly the same. Natural stone flooring is easy to clean, however it must be cleaned regularly to maintain the beauty of the natural stone.

    Natural stone, such as marble and granite, is a versatile material. Bar tops, islands, fireplaces and flooring are just a few ways you can incorporate natural stone in your home beyond a kitchen or bathroom countertop.

     

    So, if you are looking for natural stone – countertops, bar tops, islands and more – in eastern North Carolina, look no further than C & C Stoneworks. We service Greenville, Winterville, Washington, New Bern and surrounding areas. Our C & C Stoneworks team is ready to help, contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment at our showroom.

    For more content about design trends, countertop surfaces, remodels and more, visit our blog page.

     

    Everything You Need to Know About Dolomite

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    As gray and white countertops continue to be popular, we think this is a great time to talk about dolomite countertops. This lesser-known stone is a good option for customers who want the look of marble but need something less expensive and more durable.

    Here we will tell you everything you need to know, the characteristics, pros and cons, so you can decide if dolomite is a good choice for your kitchen countertops.

    What Is Dolomite?

    Dolomite is a sedimentary rock resulting from limestone and lime mud coming into contact with groundwater that is rich in magnesium. Because of that, the rock is quite similar to limestone in its coloring and composition. Dolomite is also called Dolostone to prevent confusion with the mineral dolomite which is a significant part of the stone’s composition.

    High polished slabs cut from dolomite rock, dolomite countertops look great and are commonly confused as marble or quartzite to the untrained eye. However, that is where the confusion ends, because dolomite is not as fragile and soft as marble but is not as hard and resistant as quartzite.

    Here are some specifics characteristics of dolomite so you will know all the pros and cons of choosing dolomite stone as your countertop material.

    Appearance

    Often found with gray and white coloring containing streaks allowing it to resemble marble is the main reason dolomite countertops are popular.

    The stone’s appearance and traits lend itself to sophisticated styles which makes it perfect for countertops and backsplash designs.

    Hardness (Scratch Resistant)

    Dolomite is harder than average, and not as fragile as marble. On the hardness scale, dolomite is superior to marble’s ratings, however it is not as scratch proof as granite and quartzite. Customers will need to be careful with the dolomite countertops, they can be scratched by glass and metal, so cutting boards are a must!

    Durability

    Dolomite countertops will outperform marble and last longer. These stones can last decades if they are taken care of properly.

    Although dolomite stone is more prone to chipping and cracking than granite, it is likely not to happen and is very resistant to wear and tear.

    Resistance To Stains

    Dolomite is less liquid absorbent and sensitive to acids than marble, however it still requires annual sealing and acids are definitely a no-no as dolomite will etch if exposed to them.

    When you choose dolomite, you can feel safer than you would with marble, but maintenance is still needed and should be taken.

    Heat Resistance

    This is where dolomite countertops shine over quartz – heat resistance is their greatest strength. Quartz countertops are more resistant to scratches and stains than dolomite, but quartz cannot take heat or sunlight. A hot pan on quartz marks it for life, but dolomite can, and will, hold heat well making it one less thing to worry about.

    Price

    This is another area where dolomite is a great option. In most cases, dolomite is more affordable than marble, quartz and in some cases granite. Dolomite costs will vary depending on a supplier, but you can expect them to generally range between the costs of quartzite and marble.

    Are Dolomite Countertops Right for You?

    Now that we’ve given you the characteristics, pros and cons of dolomite countertops, if you have any other questions, give the experts at C&C Stoneworks a call.

    If you are in the market for a white or gray countertop, we can help you narrow down your choices. Marble offers an amazing look but is the more fragile choice. Quartz offers great options of durability and less maintenance, but it cannot take the heat. Dolomite offers great looks at a more affordable price, but still requires plenty of attention.

     

    With that in mind, give us a call and let us help you pick the right stone countertop for your home and lifestyle. We would love to schedule a consultation and have you visit our showroom located in Greenville, North Carolina. Give us a call at 252-902-5535 today.

    Natural Stone Countertops

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    ​Most people think of marble, granite and quartzite when they think of natural stone countertops. Natural stone is a classic choice for countertops because of their one-of-a-kind beauty. Below is an overview of natural stone choices along with information on their benefits, finishes, applications and more.

    Benefits:
    Since mother nature is responsible for natural stone, each slab is unique in their shade variations, cracks, chips, fissures, pits and pores. Whatever you do, do not let this scare you away? These variations are what make natural stone so beautiful! Natural stone is also very durable, and some natural stone is resistant to bacteria, heat, scratches, and stains, and can even be used in outdoor spaces. Depending on what finish you choose, it can change the overall look and resistance of your countertops.​

    Pros and Cons of Natural Stone Countertops:
    No matter what countertop surface you choose there will always be pros and cons. You should take these into consideration when choosing a material so you can make the best decision for your project based on your design preference and lifestyle.

    Granite

    • Pro: Durability. With regular sealing, granite countertops are heat, chemical, scratch and stain resistant.
    • Con: Granite is a porous material, so it does need to be resealed. Resealing natural stone countertops (granite, marble and quartzite) is recommended every 1 to 2 years to protect against staining.

    Marble

    • Pro: Marble countertops absolutely beautiful, and if they are well-maintained, they can increase your  property value.
    • Con: Easily Stain.

    Quartzite

    • Pro: Quartzite looks like marble. With their unique and their swirling designs make countertops look more interesting helping to create an impressive bathroom or kitchen.
    • Con: Although it is durable and strong, quartzite can be damaged by sharp objects, such as a knife. You must also seal quartzite countertops annually to keep them shiny and stain free.

    Soapstone

    • Pro: Very sanitary countertop because it is non-porous. It can be cleaned with a mild soap and a sponge.
    • Con: Since the stone is fairly soft, avoid cutting on it. Be careful not to drop heavy objects on it. The soft nature of soapstone makes it nice to the touch, but it is also its one main weakness.

    Finishes:
    Before the slab gets delivered and installed into your home, the last step of the fabrication process is the finish. Depending on your style, you can choose smooth, textured, glossy countertops or even have little to no shine. This is all achieved by the finish.

    • Polished: To achieve semi-gloss to high gloss on your countertop, polished should be your choice. Stains are less likely on polished countertops, but one negative is that a high-gloss surface shows scratches easier.
    • Honed: Honed is a popular finish for marble – it creates a smooth, matte look. The benefit is that scratches are difficult to see, but this makes the surface more prone to stains.

    Care:
    Care for your natural stone countertops depends on whether it is granite, marble, quartzite or soapstone. You will want to be sure you are taking the proper precautions to prevent damage. We highly recommend cleaning up spills with a soft cloth using mild soap and warm water. If the stain is more stubborn, a nonabrasive bristled brush could be used. Always use hot pads, cutting boards, placemats, trivets and coasters to protect your surface from staining, scratches and discoloration.

    Applications:
    The most common places are for natural stone to be incorporated in your home are in kitchens and bathrooms as countertops, but natural stone can be used in so many other areas of your home. Consider an outdoor kitchen, a fireplace surround, flooring, or backsplash.

    Our designer can help you incorporate natural stone into your home, call us to schedule a meeting today, 252-902-5535.

    Why Warm Quartz Countertops Create A Welcoming Space

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    As the saying goes, “There’s no place like home.” So, when you close your eyes and imagine you are at home, what do you see? Do you see yourself with family and friends in a welcoming kitchen? Sitting around a table sharing a meal? Are you enveloped in warmth and surrounded by wonderful aromas?

    ​You can easily create a warm and inviting home by incorporating warm tones into your space, and one way to do bring warmth into your kitchen or bath is through a beautiful, warm quartz countertop color.​

    Quartz Countertop

    With so many colors to choose from, narrowing down which quartz countertop will bring your vision together can be difficult. If you find yourself torn between cool and warm tones, we are going to share some reasons why warm quartz countertops may be just what your home needs:

    Makes larger spaces cozy – If you are renovating a large kitchen or bath, using cool tones will emphasize the large square footage, which could make it feel cold and isolating. If you want to create a warm, cozy feeling in a large room, using a warm palette can help you create the look you’d like.

    Adds light to your room – Some rooms in your house may be located in an area of your home that receives minimal natural light. If your room faces the east or north or is dark, using a warm color scheme can help make the space appear brighter and more vibrant.

    ​Resembles nature – Who doesn’t love the feeling of stepping outside and the sun touches your skin? There is something that happens when that immediate light and warmth touches you and takes your day from good to great. Using warm countertops is another way to create a sense of nature in your home. A room that reminds you of sand and sun – something that helps you create a really comfortable space.
    ​
    Pairs with neutrals – Don’t think that just because you’ve chosen warm countertops that you can only use warm elements into your kitchen or bath. Warm color palettes pair wonderfully with whites, blacks, and grays – meaning you can add neutral cabinets and finishings without worry.

    Choosing a Sink for Your Kitchen

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    During construction or remodel, you will have to select a new sink for your kitchen. At C and C Stoneworks, we provide high-quality countertops with top-notch craftsmanship, as well as sink options from quality manufacturers. Stainless steel undermount kitchen/bar/laundry sinks are included in all quotes unless otherwise stated. We have other sinks we are able to purchase at a different charge such as porcelain and stainless-steel apron front sinks, 0 radius sinks, and more. We also have the ability to supply any Moen faucets or fixtures for your kitchen or bath.

    ​One of the first things to consider when selecting a kitchen sink is the size and configuration. Commonly, there are three different options – 50/50, 60/40, single bowl and apron front.
     

    50/50 Sink
    This is a very popular sink option for the kitchen! This double-bowl, 50/50 sink is perfect for multi-tasking with two equally sized basins. Although you have greater flexibility of use, one downside is that cleaning larger dishes may be a more difficult task in this sink configuration.

     
     
    60/40 Sink
    This sink has two different sized basins that gives you the flexibility of having two compartments while also including enough space to wash oversized dishes in the larger basin.


     
     
    Single Bowl Sink
    The single bowl sink is pretty trendy right now and looks sleek in any kitchen! This option can be favorable in terms of space when it comes to washing large dishes. But, if you’re looking for a sink with more flexibility to multitask, you may benefit from a multiple basin sink.


     
     

    Apron Front Sink
    Also known as farmhouse sinks, the defining characteristic of an apron front sink is a large, forward-facing side that replaces a section of the counter and cabinetry. This sink is available in multiple basin styles and adds charm to any kitchen design.


     
     
    As far as sink material, we recommend a stainless-steel sink because:

    • It compliments nearly any color and style.
    • It Is easy to clean and sterilize.
    • It is less prone to staining.
    • It is very durable and won’t chip, crack or fade.
    • It is heat resistant.
    • It is affordable (and often included in your countertop installation estimate).
    • It is environmentally friendly.

    Now it’s time for the fun part – choosing the perfect sink to go along with your new, beautiful countertops! Visit C and C Stoneworks’ showroom today to see your many options. Our experts can help you find the perfect kitchen sink to fit your lifestyle and needs!

    Keep Your Stone Countertops Looking New

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    If you’ve just completed a kitchen remodel or a new build, we know you want to keep your kitchen looking perfect for as long as possible! The good news? Stone countertops, like quartz and granite, are very durable! So, with little effort and upkeep it is possible for your countertops to stay looking wonderful for years and years.

    To help you out, here are four easy tips to follow to keep your countertops looking new!

     

    1. Watch Out for Heat

    Quartz and granite are among the most durable countertop options on the market today, but that doesn’t mean they are indestructible. While both are heat resistant, unfortunately they are not heatproof. This means that they can be damaged when exposed to high temperatures. At C and C Stoneworks, we recommend never placing hot pans directly on your countertop. To keep your countertops looking new, always use hot pads or trivets, instead of placing hot items directly on your countertop surface.

     

    2. Don’t Sit on Your Countertops

    As we mentioned before, quartz and granite are very durable! But they can be prone to damage when you place a lot of weight and pressure on them. Sitting on your countertop edges can cause cracking and leave you with a piece that you have to replace to restore the look of your countertops. To ensure this doesn’t happen, don’t sit or stand on your countertops, and remind you children of the same!

     

    3. Use a Cutting Board

    Some people make the mistake of treating their stone countertops like a cutting board. While chopping an onion for a quick party dip on your countertop once in a while is fine, you shouldn’t make a habit out of this. Certain foods contain acids that can damage or even stain your countertops, especially grapefruits, lemons or limes. Additionally, due to the tough nature of your countertops, they can even dull your knives. To protect both your knives and your countertops, we recommend always using a cutting board.

     

    4. Quick Clean Ups Go A Long Way

    As you may know, stone countertops are pretty low maintenance. A simple wipe down of your countertops each day can keep stains, bacteria and spills from penetrating the countertop seal and seeping into the natural pores of your stone. Regular cleaning also prevents your countertops from getting foggy! Remember, you don’t need fancy cleaning products. Just warm water and a mild detergent is enough to do the job.

    Following these few easy tips can help you love your countertops for many years to come! If you have any questions about stone countertop maintenance, give C and C Stoneworks a call today!

    How to Properly Sanitize Your Granite Countertops

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    Now, more than ever, folks are concerned with sanitizing and disinfecting surfaces within their homes! It is imperative to many to keep every space in their home clean and disinfected. It is no surprise that studies have shown that the kitchen may be the dirtiest room in the home. This is due to the fact that it can harbor bacteria from food preparation, food waste and more.

    You use your kitchen countertops every day, so it’s important to clean them properly and regularly. Here are a few tips on how to keep your countertops sparkling clean – and free of harmful bacteria.

    1. Keep Granite Countertops Properly Sealed
    Although granite is a durable surface, it is a porous natural stone that needs to be sealed. If unsealed or weakly sealed, your granite countertops can absorb oils and other liquids that could cause stains and lead to countertops that are prone to harboring bacteria, mold and mildew. If you are unsure about the status of your granites seal, leave a few drops of water on the surface. If it beads up, rest assured that your granite countertops are securely sealed. If the water is soaked into the stone, it’s time to contact C and C Stoneworks to have your countertops resealed.

    2. Immediately Clean Up Spills
    One way to prevent bacteria on your countertop surface, is to clean up spills as soon as they occur. If you let spills and food residue linger on your countertop, you’ll end up having more bacteria hang around than a simple cleaning can tackle. Clean spills immediately and you will have less countertop disinfecting to do on a regular basis.

    3. Keep Countertops Dry
    Mold, bacteria and fungus thrive in moist environments. Take extra precaution when cleaning your countertops and be sure to dry them with a clean cloth after washes.

    How to Sanitize Granite Countertops
    The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using warm, soapy water to clean your countertops before and after food preparation. Mild dishwashing soap has antibacterial properties, which makes it ideal to use for disinfecting granite countertops. Do not use bleach, Clorox, or ammonia because these harsh cleaners will dull the surface of the countertop over time.

    If you have any questions, comments or concerns, contact C and C Stoneworks today!

    Reasons Quartz is So Popular

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    Recently, the natural stone business is noticing a growing trend among customers. Just as granite swept home remodels and renovations in the early 2000s, quartz products are taking the spotlight in the newest homes. Thanks to HGTV and many home design experts, quartz is the newest trend, and for good reason! So, why is this trend becoming more widespread among homeowners? Here are 5 main reasons for the increase in the demand for this beautiful manmade countertop option.

    1.   Durability
    Unlike natural stones such as granite, marble, travertine, limestone or soapstone, which are mined from quarries around the world, quartz is engineered and created in factories, using some of the hardest minerals on earth. This process, along with its other additives, such as polyester resins, gives quartz extreme durability. Quartz is scratch resistant and will not stain – attractive qualities for homeowners with children, or for those who really use their kitchens for cooking, cutting, etc.

    2.   Low Maintenance
    Due to its stain-resistant, non-porous nature, quartz never has to be resealed like its sister stones granite and marble. Owners do not need to be too particular about cleaning the stone either. More delicate materials cannot be exposed to cleaning products or harsh chemicals, while quartz can take a wipe down from bleach products to ammonia cleaners and remain unharmed. Although, we don’t recommend it! Quartz is antibacterial because it is non-porous, so a damp cloth will do the trick!

    3.   Uniformity
    Natural stone, like granite, is known for its “movement” and non-uniform appearance, whereas quartz is engineered and therefore consistent in its design. This not only saves time in the design process by allowing fabricators to cut the stone without a predetermined layout (as they do with granite or marble, to make sure the customer likes where the variations in the stone are placed within the space), but it also makes matching paint, tile, and cabinet colors and styles easier for the homeowner.

    4.   Options
    In previous years, quartz was criticized for its lackluster patterns and designs, which paled in comparison to granite and marble. However, today there are quality brands of quartz that resemble granite and marble so accurately that most customers can’t tell the difference. Manufactures are able to not only polish, but they can now produce a honed, embossed, or sand blasted finish. The latest strides made in the quartz industry make it a top contender for the newest kitchen and bathroom projects.

    5.   Cost
    Despite the fact that it’s manufactured, the price tag per square foot on this increasingly popular material mirrors that of mid-level granite. Most people looking to renovate or start a new project with natural stone already have an idea of the cost, so they’re prepared to spend the kind of money that will buy a custom stone kitchen or bathroom!

    Are you ready to give your kitchen a facelift? Contact C and C Stoneworks for a free consultation on your upcoming kitchen or bathroom renovations!