Honed vs. Polished Granite – What You Should Know

Posted on December 11, 2020July 16, 2021

When deciding on granite countertops for your home, there are a lot of decisions to make. Of course, there is the color, but there’s also the edges and finishes. Even the smallest of details can make a big difference in the overall look of your completed countertop. As we mentioned, you will need to decide on the finish of your countertop – honed or polished. Many people don’t really know the difference, or quite possibly have never really looked into it. So, here is some information you need to know when deciding on the granite countertop finish for your home.

What is honed granite?
A honed finish on your granite will create a matte, low-gloss sheen. To create this finish, the polishing process is halted before buffing, leaving a surface that is not as reflective as typical granite. Honed finishes are perfect for homeowners looking for a casual, trendy or even aged look.

What are the characteristics of honed granite?
Due to its matte finish, honed granite is more resistant to scratches. When compared to polished granite, a scratch on this finish will be less noticeable because light will not reflect off of it as much. While honed granite is more resistant to scratches, it is however more susceptible to staining. If you choose this finish, just make sure to clean up spills in a timely manner.

Honed Granite at a Glance
Feel: Velvety
Look: Matte/Low Gloss
Durability: Resistant to scratches/more susceptible to staining
Where to Use It: Kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, foyer, living room
Maintenance: Wipe with water and mild detergent, clean up spills quickly, re-sealing is suggested over time.

What is polished granite?
A polished granite finish is the most common choice. It is highly reflective and puts on full display the vibrate color and character of your granite stone. It is smooth in texture and glossy. Some may even say it is shiny as it reflects the natural reflection of the stone’s crystals.

What are the characteristics of polished granite?
Granite with a polished finish is coated, making it less susceptible to stains. This finish makes for a more classic look in a kitchen or bathroom. Although it is more resistant to stains, the highly reflective surface makes scratches more visible.

Polished Granite at a Glance
Feel: Smooth
Look: Shiny/Glossy
Durability: More resistant to stains/susceptible to scratches and etches
Where to Use It: Kitchen countertops, bathroom countertops, fireplace surrounds and walls.
Maintenance: Wipe with water and mild detergent, clean up spills quickly.

No matter the granite countertop finish you choose, new countertops will make a great addition to your home. Be sure to contact C & C Stoneworks if you have any additional questions or are planning a remodel of your own.

Can I Use Quartz for Bathroom Countertops?

Posted on November 25, 2020July 16, 2021

Quartz countertops are durable and beautiful. We get asked a lot, “Can I use quartz in my bathroom?”. The answer is – YES! Quartz is highly recommended for both kitchen and bathroom countertops. Being an engineered stone, quartz combines both the uniqueness of natural stone countertops with a lot of added benefits of modern technology!

The technology we are talking about here includes, resin binders and additional colors not seen in natural stone that give quartz an upper hand. In a way, quartz gives us the best of both worlds, natural and engineered stone countertops.

If you choose to use quartz in your bathroom, you need to think about your style preferences, budget and the quantity of material you will need for your bathroom remodel. Depending on the bathroom countertop results you are looking for, our fabricators will take you through various levels and brands of quartz to choose from. As expected, high quality quartz will be different from results delivered by standard quality quartz. We will work with you to choose the best your budget can buy!

Here are a few reason quartz is a great option for you bathroom countertops.

Durability
Since they are man-made, quartz countertops are engineered to be durable – even more durable than natural stone and other surfacing options. They are also heat-resistant, making them great for people who like to sit styling tools on their bathroom countertops. We still recommend a silicon mat under curling irons and straighteners though!

Stain Resistance
Quartz countertops are stain resistant. They are a nonporous material, meaning that they are solid all the way though.

If you’re ready to upgrade your bathroom with beautiful quartz countertops, give C and C Stoneworks a call today!

Your Guide to A Stone Fireplace Upgrade

Posted on October 15, 2020July 16, 2021

The holiday season is quickly approaching, and with that comes a lot of time spent with family. And, for many families that includes cozy nights around the fireplace. If your fireplace is in need of an update, look no further than C and C Stoneworks! Our experts can fabricate your perfect stone surround to give new life to your fireplace. Here are some beautiful and functional stone options for your fireplace upgrade.

Granite
Granite is a workhorse of a stone. It is low-maintenance, multifunctional and resistant to wear and tear. Especially for fireplace surrounds, it is easy to clean and heat resistant, making it a perfect choice. Homeowners will appreciate that granite won’t be stained by the soot and grime that may collect from a natural wood burn. Because of its bacteria-resistant nature, soapy water with a washcloth is all that would be required to wipe away dust or dirt. Granite comes in many colors and patterns, making it the perfect choice for someone who wants to make their fireplace a statement piece, or for someone who is going for a more timeless look.

Marble
Marble remains a classic option for a tasteful, refined look that can be adapted to nearly any design style. Vertical applications of marble on a fireplace surround is a perfect way to showcase the luxury of marble without risk, since fireplaces are not subjected to much traffic, and ambient heat from a fireplace will not damage the stone. Marble is a metamorphic stone, created when limestone is subjected to extreme heat and pressure over long periods of time. It’s truly a work of nature. For those with gas fireplaces, marble works especially well because there is no concern about dirt or grime accumulating on the surface.

If you’re looking for a fireplace upgrade, call C and C Stoneworks today!

Trending Granite Countertop Colors in 2020

Posted on September 9, 2020July 16, 2021

We’re always keeping up with the latest design trends here at C and C Stoneworks. If you’re ready to update your home’s countertops with a stylish and durable surface, look no further. Our countertop experts can point you in the right direction to find the perfect fit for your lifestyle and taste. Granite has been a favorite since the beginning, and in 2020 that is still the case. Not only is it beautiful, it’s durable and increases the value of your home! Here are 2020 granite countertop colors that are trending this year.

Alaska White Granite
The perfect balance of light and dark, Alaska White Granite is great for all indoor projects, in any room. Create a stunning look when paired with dark wood cabinets and lighter décor. Kitchens featuring this stone accomplish a classic look that is sure to always be trending!

Absolute Black Premium Granite
This slab is a beauty! Predominantly black with speckles of golds, silvers, greens and grays, this stone makes a statement in any room. If your style is a little more modern, this may be the perfect option for you. White walls and cabinets will provide a perfect contrast to create a sleek, clean look.

Himalaya White Granite
Whites are definitely trending this year. If you’re looking to pull off the all-white look, this granite option is calling your name. Himalaya White Granite features a beautiful marbling effect that will give you the elegant look you are going for. If an all-white kitchen isn’t quite your style, this countertop will look amazing with blue accent cabinets in your island. This will bring out the beautiful blue undertones and add a pop of color!

Azul Bahia Granite
If you want something completely unique, you’re in luck! Bold colors and patterns are also trending in 2020. If you’re a fan of blues and unique granite characteristics, take a look at the Azul Bahia Granite. This stone will be the focal point in any room you use it in and definitely make your home unique – in the best way possible.

Tips to Help Keep Your Kitchen Renovation on Track

Posted on August 21, 2020July 16, 2021

Kitchen remodels can seem overwhelming, and keeping your project on track is no simple task. Of course, you’ll want to stick to your timeline and know when you’ll be able to cook and entertain in your kitchen again. At C and C Stoneworks, we understand your concern when it comes to the timeline for your renovation. That is why it is our goal to educate our customers on what can be expected. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while planning your kitchen remodel, that can help keep you on track.

Set Your Budget
Whether you’re renovating your home for resale value or just simply for a beautiful upgrade to enjoy with your family, before you begin you will need to educate yourself on the costs. One thing that can hold up a renovation is not budgeting properly to get everything done in a timely manner. The team at C and C Stoneworks can make you aware of all the costs that are associated with your remodel. Trust us, we know all there is to know about countertops and have seen many kitchen remodels. We can help you account for any unexpected costs that can arise.During this planning phase, we suggest breaking down your budget in detail, that way you’ll be less likely to exceed it during construction.
Choose the Right Professionals for the Job
One of the best things you can do to stick to your renovation timeline is choosing the right, experienced professionals for the job. C and C Stoneworks is committed to making your kitchen dreams come true. We will walk you through the entire process and keep you updated every step of the way.
Consider the Other Things You Want
Once you have your plan in place and selected all of your materials, our team will give you a timeline of when your new kitchen countertops will be fabricated and installed. During this time you can work on selecting the other items you want to include in your new kitchen, like decor and new furniture. Once you know when your countertops will be installed, you can make sure that your new items are in by that time. Then, you’ll be able to enjoy your completed kitchen as soon as possible.
Stick to the Plan
Once you’ve made your design, budget, and construction plans, stick to them. It can be easy to be swept up in the frenzy of all the options, but this can lead to wasteful spending and a delayed finish date.

While a kitchen remodel can be overwhelming, it is much less stressful with a team of professionals to guide you. Contact C and C Stoneworks today to get started on the kitchen of your dreams.

What Can Cause Granite Countertops to Crack?

Posted on July 13, 2020July 16, 2021

As we’ve mentioned in many previous blogs, granite countertops are tough. Very tough. So, the last thing anyone expects is a crack developing on the surface of their kitchen or bathroom countertops. However, it is possible for granite to crack from improper care, wear and tear, and sometimes it may even be a natural part of the stone. Here are a few things that can bring about a crack in your granite countertops.

Natural Fissures
Like we said, sometimes cracks in granite can be natural. This particular type of stone is known to have natural fissures that could possibly develop into a crack. However, when working with C and C Stoneworks, we will identify any natural fissures and make sure that they are not in sensitive areas such as seams, cut outs and cooktop. This will greatly reduce the chance of cracks developing. Keep in mind, natural fissures actually give your countertops beautiful character and are nothing to worry about if the countertop is installed correctly! Check out our blog “Crack in Countertop? Or, Could it be a Fissure?” to learn more!

Hard Hit
While granite is durable, a hard hit with a heavy object can cause a crack.Weight
Just like a hard hit, placing a lot of weight on the countertop could also lead to a crack. Be mindful of any excessive weight you place on your stone surface. If your kitchen countertop design features a bar or island with an overhang, we add braces and corbels to give an extra layer of protection against cracks.

Improper Shimming
It is extremely important for your countertops to be installed on a level surface. Unfortunately, many homes, floors, walls and cabinets aren’t always level. If countertops are placed unlevel this can lead to numerous problems, including cracking. At C and C Stoneworks we shim areas to ensure that you have a perfect base for your countertop installation. If you currently have granite countertops, take a peak underneath them. If you notice any areas that are not touching your cabinets, you are at risk for cracks and should contact us!

Hot Pots
While granite is formed through heat and is therefore naturally heat resistant, constant exposure to heat over an extended period can cause damage.

At C and C Stoneworks our goal is to install beautiful countertops and give our customers tips and tricks to help keep them beautiful for years and years. If your countertops currently have cracks, give us a call! Depending on the size of the crack, we can repair it!

Create a Beautiful Bathroom with Natural Stone

Posted on June 15, 2020July 16, 2021

Showers are about getting clean, right? So, it fits perfectly that shower designs are getting more clean-lined too! We’re seeing bigger stone slabs in the shower, with fewer grout lines, and smaller shower drains to complete the sleek look. We are also seeing light stone tiles being used to make a space feel bigger and more elegant.

If you’re ready for a shower update, here are a few tips from us at C and C Stoneworks!Picking a Natural Stone

As far as what kind of stone to use in a bathroom – it is pretty simple. Any natural stone, when properly installed, cared for and sealed, will hold up great in your bathroom. Whether it’s marble or granite, nothing looks as beautiful as real stone in a bathroom.

1. Marble
Marble is a limestone, but limestone is not a marble. The beauty and elegance of marble has been used in bathrooms for many, many years. Marble can be used to create stunning shower surrounds, floors, walls and backsplashes. Just remember, that marble is susceptible to etching from acidic cleaners, so make sure to use extra care if marble is your choice of stone.
2. Granite
As we’ve mentioned many times before, granite is one of the hardest stones known to man. This makes granite a perfect choice for a vanity top. Because every slab is made by nature and completely unique, you can create a bathroom look all your own. Spills wipe easy, and granite is hard to stain.

Sealing and Polishing
When it comes to sealing these stones keep in mind that bathrooms are wet places. This makes it prudent to keep your natural stone and any grout lines sealed with a sealer to keep the appearance you fell in love with in the first place, and to prevent mildew. However, it is also important to note that a highly polished marble or granite will usually not absorb sealer, so that step could be a waste of time and money. The more polished a stone, the better it repels water. Whereas, honed and other stone finishes may not dry as quickly. The professionals at C and C Stoneworks can advise you on the best way to care for the stone in your bathroom.

Grout and Caulk
Lock out water by ensuring that grout and caulk are properly maintained. You should inspect it regularly and get any repairs made promptly to prevent water from getting behind the stone or stone tiles in your shower. We also recommend using a grout and caulk with built-in mildewcide to stop the growth before it even starts.

Drainage and Ventilation
When completing your bathroom design or remodel, make sure that your plan includes a system that will reduce moisture. Excellent drainage is a must to preserve the natural stone you choose. Draining on the shower floor is especially imperative. Keep in mind too, that ventilation also helps to keep a bathroom dry. Fans and central air vents are great at helping prevent mold and mildew from growing.

The professionals at C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC are ready to help you create your perfect bathroom. We’re here to guide you through the entire process and pick the perfect stone for your space! Give us a call today!

Cleaning Tips for a Germ-Free Kitchen

Posted on May 8, 2020July 16, 2021

With everything going on in the world right now, sanitation and cleaning are at the top of everyone’s mind. Not to mention, it’s also spring, which means a lot of folks are getting into the spring-cleaning mood! So, here are a few kitchen cleaning tips that will help keep your family healthy, your home germ-free, and bring that sparkle and shine back to your kitchen!

1. Cleanse and Clear Your Countertops
Start by decluttering your kitchen countertops. Put away any small appliances, kitchen utensils and décor. You can put those back later, but you will get a much more effective clean if these items aren’t in the way when you wipe down your countertops. After removing everything, give your countertops and backsplash a deep clean using a soft microfiber cloth, mild liquid soap and warm water. If soap scum is an issue in your kitchen, be sure to use a non-acidic soap scum remover. For more difficult stains, use a non-abrasive soft bristled brush and scrub lightly. Be sure to towel dry in order to prevent spotting and prevent the countertop from absorbing any of the leftover liquids.
Tip! If you’re looking for a way to make sure that your stone countertops always look beautiful and are well maintained, check out our stone sealer available for purchase on our website! This sealer can be used on any stone surface. It penetrates deep in the stone to provide a great seal and food-safe barrier from spills and spotting!

2. Make Your Appliances Shine
After you’ve cleaned your countertops, you don’t want to ruin all of your hard work by placing dirty appliance back on them. Give small appliances a good wipe down to remove any leftover food or dust that has accumulated over time. Make sure to clean your larger appliances too, like the stove, oven and refrigerator. If you have enough time, consider scrubbing your burners and cleaning out refrigerator drawers.

3. Floors and Final Touches
Finally, make sure to vacuum and mop your kitchen floors to complete your kitchen cleaning! Also, here are few more small areas in your kitchen you may want to clean too.

Wipe down bar stools, tables and chairs.
Dust light fixtures.
Wipe down cabinets, doors and switch plates.
Clean trash cans and recycling bins.

If you have any questions about the best way to clean your stone kitchen countertops, contact us at C and C Stoneworks! Or, if deep cleaning your kitchen has made you wish for an update, we can make your dreams come true! Give us a call today.

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Author: C and C Stoneworks