No matter what countertop surface you currently have in your home, there may come a time when you need to replace them. Recognizing these three signs can help you determine if your countertops are ready for a replacement.
1. Erosion
Countertop erosion is common with low-end countertop materials. However, some high-end surfaces can also wear out if you’ve had them for a very long time, or if they haven’t been taken care of. If your countertops have eroded to the point of being able to see the materials beneath them, you are in need of a replacement. Although, we recommend you don’t let them get to this level.You can’t repair eroded materials, so replacement is the only option. Opt for an upgrade in material installed by a trusted professional. This will ensure that you have beautiful countertops for many years to come!
2. Cracks
Cracks are common in certain countertop materials, like wood. Cracks are caused by constant pressure, or sharp and abrasive objects coming into contact with the countertop. Not only do cracks make your countertops unappealing, they can also trap bacteria!It is possible to repair cracks. You should have a trained professional take a look at them to determine if this is a possibility. If your countertops are full of large cracks, your best option will be to replace them!
3. Outdated
Nothing can make a kitchen or bathroom look drab more than outdated countertops. Let’s be honest, your kitchen is the heart of your home. So, why not show it a little love. If your countertops are stuck in the past, it’s time to replace them! You can choose something timeless, like a neutral granite stone with beautiful veining. This will keep your countertops in style for as long as you keep them! Or maybe your style has changed, this is a great reason to replace your countertops too!
Not to mention, if you are planning on selling your home in the future, countertops are a HUGE selling point to potential buyers! Make sure you get the most value out of your home by replacing your countertops!
So, have you decided it’s time to replace your kitchen or bathroom countertops? Contact C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC! You can visit our stone yard full of all different materials and colors. Find the countertop that is perfect for you and your home! Then our experienced fabricator and installers will work to give you the countertops of your dreams.
Happy New Year! With 2020 in full swing, we can now talk about some of our favorite stone and countertop trends for this year. Some are classics we see from year to year, and a few are new trends we just can’t wait to tell you about. If a kitchen or bathroom remodel is on your to-do list for 2020, these trends are sure to get you excited!
Slab Backsplash
Stone slab backsplashes will add so much drama to your kitchen. Extending the countertop material, whether that be granite, quartz or marble, up the wall to meet your cabinetry, creates a streamlined, clean and contemporary backsplash design.
Double Islands
Here’s a new idea we are really loving! Expand your kitchen’s functionality and maintain a great traffic flow with double islands. It’s a great way to divide the space and create two distinct areas; one for preparing food and another for gathering with family and friends! You can make even more of a statement on your double islands by using a complementing stone countertop to match the rest of the countertops in your kitchen. Or, you can opt for a contrasting countertop color to really make the islands the focal point of the space.
Gravity Defying Countertops
Clean lines and sleek designs are definitely trending in 2020. Many homeowners want to maximize open space, and a gravity defying countertop is the perfect way to do that! Having a countertop that extends feet beyond the structure of your island not only allows you to slide barstools underneath but creates a cool architectural piece in your kitchen!Quartz
Once again, in 2020, quartz isn’t going anywhere. At the top of the countertop material list, quartz is both durable and beautiful! We highly suggest visiting our stone yard to see our many quartz options in person!Dark Stones
In years past we have seen light and bright trends, with white countertops and white cabinetry. But, in 2020 expect to see dark stones more and more. Especially in smaller spaces and bathrooms, dark stones can add a lot of drama to your space. Dark stone countertops paired with dark cabinetry will be trending this year!
Make your home trend this year! Contact C and C Stoneworks for all your stone countertop, tile and flooring needs.
Knowing what to look for can help you determine if you have a crack or a fissure. Cracks usually only appear in one location of the stone’s surface and will have noticeable unevenness that you can feel. Whereas fissures often appear in more than one place on the slab and are rarely straight. Your fingernail can also run smoothly over a fissure. Remember, fissures will not impair or effect the integrity of the stone. Fissures do not change the plan of the surface. For example, if you were to place a level over a fissure you shouldn’t be able to slide a business card underneath it.
Fissures are a beautiful reminder of the natural journey your stone slab took to get to your countertop. But, if you aren’t a fan of the way they look, make sure that you inspect your entire slab for any characteristic that you don’t like (or want on your countertop). Our stone yard is the perfect place to do this! All in one location, you can see many different stones, colors and patterns, and see your FULL slab before you purchase. Other retails may only show you small samples of the stone and you won’t be able to see all the characteristics that may lie on the surface.
If you’re looking for the perfect stone slab, contact C and C Stoneworks today! We’re there for the entire process – from stone selection and design to custom fabrication and installation!
Is your kitchen in desperate need of an update? You know it’s time for a remodel, but perhaps the sticker shock of how much a remodel can cost has you a little hesitant. We see this a lot; folks have decided to tackle a remodel and are looking for an area they can cut costs. Often times this is with the countertops. After all, laminate is fine. Right?
Well, the problem is that for the money you may be saving by opting for low end countertops, you are actually just borrowing from yourself long term. Not only do laminate countertops not last like stone countertops, they are much more prone to scratching staining and cutting damage. In the long term, granite, quartz or marble will be much better for your budget because they last a long time and you won’t have to spend money again installing new countertops years later.
Not only are stone countertops stronger, more durable and more appealing, they are also a lot more forgiving of kitchen accidents than laminate. Not to mention, if you ever plan on selling your home, stone countertops are a huge selling point for potential buyers!
To save money on your kitchen remodel the RIGHT way we suggest –
Keeping The Same Layout
Moving the sink, electrical outlets and switches to other locations will certainty drive up your costs. Consider keeping your same kitchen layout. The C and C Stoneworks team will custom fabricate your countertops, so no need to worry about fitting them perfectly in your existing space!
Repaint, Don’t Replace Cabinets
Instead of gutting your kitchen cabinetry, just give it a facelift with a fresh coat of paint and new hardware. If your cabinets are in good condition, a simple resurfacing will bring new life to your kitchen, without breaking the bank.
Consider Open Shelving
If part of your kitchen remodel needs to include adding more storage, consider open shelving! It creates interest in your space and saves money. Not to mention, it is very trendy and a great way to display your favorite dishes!
Are you ready to tackle your kitchen remodel? Contact C and C Stoneworks today! We’ll help you pick out the perfect countertop for your space that will look beautiful, increase your home’s value and stand the test of time!
As we all know, new bathroom countertops are beautiful, update the room and add value to your home. But when choosing the right countertop material for your bathroom, there a few things to consider. After all, this countertop will endure a lot – from humidity and moisture, to the normal, everyday wear of your routine. That is why it is important to choose a material that can withstand these conditions and will look great for a long time.
If you are remodeling your bathroom, you have a plethora of countertop options to choose from. Here are our top recommendations for bathroom countertops that will, not only add a touch of elegance to your home, but will give you a great return on your investment.
Quartz
Quartz is a high-quality material made up of 95% natural stone mixed with resins, polymers and binders. It is completely nonporous, making it resistant to water and stains – perfect for a bathroom! Quartz can handle humidity, preventing the growth of mold or bacteria on your countertop surface. It is also low maintenance, easy to clean and does not require a top sealant.
Granite
Granite is the number one material for countertops. And it for good reason. Granite has a hardness index close to a diamond! Granite, like quartz, is stain and water resistant. It is important to apply a sealant to your granite countertop, to ensure that it stays nonporous and resistant to moisture and stains.
Marble
Marble is elegant and incredibly durable. This natural stone comes in an endless variety of colors and patterns. Marble is a softer stone than granite and it is porous. To make sure that it holds up in a bathroom and stays looking great, it needs to be sealed every year or two.
With a stone yard fully stocked with the most beautiful and exotic countertop stone options, C and C Stoneworks is your go-to for any bathroom remodel. We will help you find just the right option for you and your home’s décor and create and install your new countertop with precision. Contact us or visit our location today. Your new bathroom masterpiece awaits!
If you are building a new home or thinking of a remodel, we know that functionality is a top priority – especially if you have a large family or small children. Your design plans require special attention to ensure that the space is family-friendly and welcoming. At C and C Stoneworks, we’ve worked with many families to create both beautiful and functional spaces.
We all know, especially in eastern North Carolina, that the kitchen is the heart of the home, which naturally means it is the busiest room of the house. So, when considering design elements, we have a few tips that will make your space flow much better – and save parents from a little stress.
1. Open Floor Plan
Not only does an open floor plan make your kitchen look bigger, it also allows whoever is preparing meals to feel like they are a part of the action happening in the living or dining area. We know that parents of small children appreciate this layout too, so that they can keep an eye on their little ones playing in the next room.
2. Kitchen Island
Kitchen islands are so wonderful and versatile. They can be used for additional seating, prepping meals, homework, crafts or just hanging out before dinner. Adding a kitchen island not only gives you a very useful surface, but also a beautiful design element to your space. The countertop and/or cabinetry you choose to use on your island can be contrasting or complementing to the rest of your kitchen, depending on the look you are going for! Both are trending right now and real attention-getters!
3. Fuss-Free Countertops
Low maintenance, easy-to-live with countertops are a must for families. You need something that is durable, fingerprint resistant and easy to clean. Trust us! Quartz countertops are a great choice, as they are heavy-duty and non-porous, meaning they are unlikely to stain. Quartz is available in countless colors and patterns, so you won’t have to sacrifice style for function. Granite is also a great option but does require regular sealing to keep it in excellent condition.
4. Kid-Friendly Countertop Corners
This is an important one! Sharp countertop corners seem to just be a magnet for little heads. We highly recommend that if you have small children running around at home, to consider a rounded countertop corner. Not only is it classic, it can help save you from drying a few tears.
Are you looking for a family-friendly kitchen design? C and C Stoneworks is here to help! We work with each family individually to create a space that, is not only beautiful but, works for everyone in the home! Contact us today!
It’s time to spruce up for summer! At C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC, we have lots of great stone remnants in many colors and patterns – perfect for your small summer projects!
First of all, what exactly is a stone remnant? Well, when someone purchases a slab for kitchen or bathroom countertops, we custom cut it to the perfect size. This means that there are often pieces cut that are not used for the project. At C and C Stoneworks, we stockpile remnants that are too small for most countertops, but large enough that they’d go to waste if not used – making them perfect for small projects. And the best part? These remaining pieces are less expensive than full slabs!
To help you get started, and spark a little creativity, here are a few ideas of what you can do with stone remnants to carry the luxury of natural stone throughout your home.
1. Bathroom Vanity
Is there a bathroom in your home that could use a little TLC? A simple vanity countertop upgrade can create a consistent aesthetic throughout your home. Remnants are the perfect choice for this project – especially for the vanity in your smaller half or guest bathrooms.
2. Kitchen Island
While remnants are not big enough for a full kitchen countertop remodel, they are a great choice for a kitchen island. Adding a pop of quartz or granite to your kitchen island can create just the “wow” factor you are looking for. Even if you don’t have a permanent kitchen island, a rolling island with a stone countertop is very functional – it gives an extra surface to prepare meals and entertain but can be rolled out of the way when needed.
3. Bar Top
If you love to entertain, this is the perfect project for you! A beautiful stone remnant can give a fresh face to your bar top.
4. Accent Tile
Our fabricators can cut stone remnants into accent tiles that can be used anywhere in your home. Add them behind the kitchen sink, to the fireplace surround, in a built-in bookshelf, or as an accent strip in a shower. The possibilities are endless with these!5. Outdoor Décor
Natural stone looks right at home when used outdoors. Small, irregular shaped slabs can be used to create a beautiful garden path or rock wall, and very small pieces can be made into mosaics for the patio.Are feeling creative yet? Visit our stone yard to see all of our beautiful remnant pieces for yourself. We can help you find just the one that suits your style and project!
As we’ve said in many of our previous blogs, granite is the most popular material for kitchen countertops. Here at C and C Stoneworks, we don’t think the eye-catching beauty of granite should be limited just to countertops though! It’s naturally beautiful and incredibly durable, making it the perfect stone to incorporate into other areas of your home as well. Here are 5 ways to use granite in your home – that are not on a kitchen countertop.
Backsplash – Granite is just as functional for a backsplash as it is for a countertop. A custom-fabricated granite backsplash is the perfect choice to create a cohesive look in your kitchen. You can go with a complimenting or contrasting design to give your kitchen the look you desire.
Floor Tile – Granite floor tiles are available in many different designs, colors and patterns and can give a very attractive look to your home. Granite flooring is durable, long lasting and resistant to scratching and staining. Not to mention, it can increase the overall value of your property!
Fireplace – Granite is a great stone to use on fireplaces. It is extremely durable and can handle the heat. A granite fireplace surround can easily dress up any plain or outdated fireplace.
Sinks – Think outside of the porcelain, stainless steel or glass box when it comes to sinks. The trendiest new material for sinks is, you guessed it, granite! Granite sinks are made from granite dust and resins that are molded into an eye-catching, heat and scratch resistant sink. When coordinated with your countertops, using granite for your kitchen sink can create a beautiful and seamless look.
Tabletops and Desks – By using granite, you can create a sophisticated and low-maintenance dining room table that matches your kitchen countertops. Another idea is to use granite as a top for the built-in desk in your home.
Are you inspired? Do you have new ideas of how to incorporate granite into your home?
Contact C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC today! Our talented fabricators can help make your dreams come true!
Last month we featured what everyone should know about marble when choosing to use it in their home – this month its quartz’s turn!
Quartz Isn’t 100% Natural Stone
You may have read that and got a bad taste in your mouth. However, the fact that quartz isn’t a natural stone isn’t a bad thing! Quartz is an engineered material created with approximately 95% ground natural quartz and 5% polymer resins. The resins help make this countertop material stain and scratch resistant – and non-porous, so they never have to be sealed. Although they are engineered, they come in many different patterns, colors, and finishes making them almost indistinguishable from natural stones like granite and marble. Therefore, quartz can suit every style and design – from streamlined modern and relaxed farmhouse to earthy and traditional.
Great Option For People Who Want Low Maintenance Countertops
A common request we hear is for a white stone that has the look of marble but without the amount of maintenance. Quartz is a great option for this! Made from one of the hardest materials on earth, quartz is one of the most durable options for kitchen countertop. As we mentioned before, unlike granite or marble, its non-porous surface means it never has to be sealed. Surface stains can often simply be removed with a gentle cleaner and the only daily upkeep needed is a quick wipe down with soapy water! Quartz is also antimicrobial because the polymer resins block odor-causing bacteria, mold and mildew from penetrating the surface!
There Are A Few Things Quartz Can’t Handle
Quartz countertops are only heat and scorch resistant up to a certain point. A sudden change in countertop temperature or sustained heat from a hot pot or pan can crack the surface. To stay on the safe side, be sure to always use a hot pad. It is also not recommended to use quartz for outdoor projects as the sun can cause the colors to fade and the countertop to warp over time.
Where You Buy Quartz Matters
You may be tempted to go to a big box retailer or home improvement store to pick out your quartz countertop. But, by doing this, you are significantly limiting your options as they usually have a much smaller selection to choose from. And, odds are you will get a less-skilled contractor handling the installation. Instead, visit C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC! You will have the opportunity to see many whole slabs of quartz and won’t have to make a decision based off of a small sample. You will also have the guarantee of an experienced stone countertop fabricator and installer. Since we’ve been in business for many years and have completed countless projects, we can even show you our work to help you make a decision that is perfect for your home’s countertops!
If you’re in eastern North Carolina and are considering quartz countertops, contact C and C Stoneworks today!
A marble bathroom vanity, fireplace surround or kitchen countertop is a big purchase for any homeowner. Deciding that marble is right for your home may be easy because of its classic good looks and timeless qualities. After all, it is one of the most beautiful materials out there! But before you head to the stone yard to pick your slab, here are a few things you should know before your decision is ‘set in stone.’
Marble Requires Sealing
The maintenance and upkeep of marble is sometimes off putting to homeowners. But small steps can help ensure that your stone looks great for a very long time. If you have decided on marble for your kitchen countertops or bathroom vanity, remember that it is a porous stone, which means that it requires annual sealing so that it will not become water damaged. Also, marble is more susceptible to staining, so be sure to wipe up any spills immediately.
Marble Has Finish Options
You know that marble comes in many colors and veining patterns, making each stone uniquely different. But, did you know that you can make your marble even more unique with the type of finish you choose for your countertop? Popular options include: Honed or Matte – the marble is sanded to be smooth, and it has almost a soft feel. A matte finish will mute the color somewhat while helping to hide any scratches that may be made on the surface. Polished – the marble surface is grinded and buffed to create a sparkle-like finish. A polished finish really brings out the color and natural veining but is more susceptible to scratches. Leather – this marble finish is often preferred on darker stones as it textures the surface to conceal fingerprints and scratches – while still offering some shine.
Marble is Quite Durable
Marble is a natural stone, not manmade, which means it’s more resistant to breaking, cracking and scratching. Although, it is not quite as durable as granite. This means that if you are using marble for your kitchen countertops, you want to treat it with a little more care than other popular surface options like granite and quartz. Marble is heat-resistant, making it perfect for fireplace surrounds because it can withstand the heat and won’t yellow.
Marble is Worth Every Penny
Although marble may be more expensive, and require more work than other materials, it really is worth every penny! It is more than just a beautiful surface or accent piece, it is an investment that can be beneficial to any future sale of your home!
Are you considering using marble in your new home or home remodel? Contact the professionals at C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC. We are happy to answer any questions you may have and help you find the marble stone of your dreams! Our experienced fabricators will create the perfect countertops, vanity top or fireplace surround for your space. Contact us today!
