Why Granite Countertop Should Start with the Slab

Posted on January 14, 2019July 16, 2021

As we all know, granite has been one of the most popular countertop materials for many years now – and for good reason! Granite countertops are beautiful, easy to maintain, durable and can last forever with proper care and maintenance. Considering your granite countertops are going to be with you for quite a while and are usually the main focal point of any space, wouldn’t you want to be able to select the exact countertop stone that will be installed? At C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC, we always suggest going directly to the slab when deciding on your perfect countertop – here’s a few reasons why!

You Get to See the Big Picture

Tiny samples of granite can be a great starting point to narrow down your preferences, but you need to choose from full slabs when you make your final decision. When you choose the actual slab, you can see what the overall color and pattern looks like – because granite is made by nature and no two slabs are alike. Many times, a slab of granite will have secondary and tertiary colors that are not obvious until you see the whole piece. Will the beautiful swirls and veining in a particular slab of granite match your décor plan? Seeing the “big picture” will help you with your design choices too!

You Will Learn Not All Stones Are Equal

Even if you get the same type of granite as a sample you saw, remember not all stones are created equally. What we are getting at is that just because you loved the 12” x 12” sample you saw at the big box dealer, doesn’t mean the countertop as a whole will be what you imagined. Much of the appeal of granite to many people are the “beauty marks” made by nature. However, there are some granite stones with unflattering patterns and/or flaws. If you only see a small sample, how do you know what the rest of it will look like?

You Can See Many Options

Another advantage of going directly to the slab when choosing new countertops, is that by going to a stone yard you will be able to see many, many options. Once you decide on the perfect color and pattern for you, you will be able to inspect the individual slab. Like any other natural stone, granite is rarely consistent in design and you must be sure you like any changes in color or patina across the slab.

Once you’ve picked your perfect slab, C and C Stoneworks’ professional fabricators will convert it into your dream countertop. We guarantee maximum utilization of the slab and hide seams for a cohesive look across your countertop surface. Contact us today to visit our stone yard. Your perfect slab is waiting for you!

Slab of Sienna Beige at C and C Stoneworks Stone Yard

Tips for Matching Countertops and Cabinetry

Posted on December 27, 2018July 19, 2021

Christmas is over and the hustle and bustle of baking, cleaning and wrapping gifts is winding down. During the busy holiday season, chances are you entertained family and friends in your home, and chances are a lot of that time was spent in the kitchen. With so much time spent in the kitchen, you may have noticed that it does not look or function as well as it use too. With the new year approaching what better way to celebrate than with a kitchen upgrade?

New countertops and cabinetry can make the space feel bigger and work better for your family. You can add an island (which comes in mighty handy for holiday baking) or add more efficient cabinetry.
At C and C Stoneworks, we know all about kitchen remodels and drawing upon all of our experience we have put together tips for matching countertops and cabinetry to help you get started with your kitchen renovation.

The best thing you can do is to choose your countertop before you select your cabinetry. This is because the stone you choose, especially with granite and marble, will be completely unique and unchangeable. Granite color is made by nature, not in a factory, so no two slabs will ever be identical – while cabinetry can be changed with paints and stains to get the best possible match.
When it comes to matching countertops and cabinetry you have two options: contrasting or complementary. An example of contrasting is the classic dark and light kitchen, where we may see dark-stained cabinetry with white or light gray countertops. Complementary would be, for example, an all-white kitchen with white cabinets and white countertops. While this may sound monotone and boring, remember that light colored granite still has veins of different shades throughout that adds dimension and can be highlighted with accent pieces.This is a good time to think about your backsplash too. Do you want it to make a statement or fade into the background? Both are beautiful options, our experts can help you decide which is more your style.

Contrasting: Blue pearl granite countertops with ogee edges and white cabinetry.

Complementary: White cabinetry with light countertops and backsplash.

Once you decide on countertops and cabinetry colors, get a sample of each and take home. It is important to see them together in your own kitchen. Different lighting can bring out different colors and tones. Look at them at various times of the night and day to determine if it is just what you want.
One last tip. When deciding on your countertops and cabinets, finding the right stone and wood finish combination can be a little bit overwhelming. There are so many beautiful choices out there. The best way to make sure that you see your options is to work with a high-quality company, like C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC. We are able to offer you personalized service and take the time to help you see what options are best for your home, lifestyle and taste.

Increasing the Value of Your Home with New Countertops

Posted on November 15, 2018July 16, 2021

Homeowners or realtors who want to make a house more appealing to potential buyers know the impact new countertops can have on resale value. Often, beautiful countertops are at the top of buyers’ “must-have list.” In fact, sale listings with the keywords “granite countertops” sell for about 4% above the expected value, and almost 40 days sooner than the competition.

Where to Spend Money on New Countertops
We’ve all heard the saying, “The kitchen is the heart of the home.” Families spend a lot of time here! It’s where meals are shared, homework is done, birthdays are celebrated, guests are entertained, and more. So, it is no surprise that potential buyers pay special attention to the kitchen when thinking about purchasing a new home.

Another area of your home to think about upgrading countertops is the bathroom. If your bathroom countertops are in poor condition, consider replacing them. New bathroom countertops can prevent a negative effect on your home selling. You may not get quite the same bang for your buck that you do with new kitchen countertops, but with upgraded bathrooms too your home will sell faster

What Type of Countertops to Select
The best countertops for resale value are attractive but versatile. At C and C Stoneworks, we recommend granite. This durable, functional and classic material is the most sought after countertop stone among those looking for a new home. Granite is great for the kitchen and the bathroom. Choose a granite in a neutral color – this is not the time to go with a trendy choice. Pick something mainstream. From an investment standpoint, white kitchens are always a hit. Our experts can work with you to suggest countertop colors and styles that have a more timeless look.

When to Upgrade Countertops
What if you are planning to put your home on the market in the next few years? Does it make financial sense to replace your old countertops now? Most of the time, the answer is “yes”. Extremely strong and hard, granite can retain its gorgeous look and feel for many years, even after heavy use. When properly sealed, it is highly resistant to scratches and stains. So, it’s a win-win! You can enjoy your new countertops until you decide to sell your home and still have an increased resale value.

Gorgeous kitchens and bathrooms set the tone for a home, and are two of the savviest remodels to get the best return on your investment. At C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC we can help homeowners and realtors choose countertops that are not only beautiful, but can stand up to the wear and tear of a busy home. Are you ready to increase the value of your home? Contact us today to learn more!

Choosing the Right Stone for Your Fireplace

Posted on October 29, 2018July 16, 2021

It’s finally starting to feel like fall (or maybe more like winter) here in eastern North Carolina. Are you ready to get into the spirit of the season and enjoy a cozy night by the fire? But, what if you don’t have an outdoor fireplace or your indoor fireplace is in desperate need of an update? Don’t worry! You won’t be left in the cold with C and C Stoneworks. We can create a beautiful outdoor fireplace for your family to enjoy or update the stone and hearth on your indoor fireplace. From rustic to modern, there are many options available to create the style of your dreams. Not only the type of stone that you choose, but also the color, shape and installation will create a final work of art.

Here are some of our favorite indoor fireplace looks.

Simple and Classic – This design uses beautiful white marble on the fireplace and hearth for a timeless look that goes well with any home décor.

Rustic and Traditional – This natural stone fireplace will add warmth to any home. Accented with dark stained cabinetry, your home will have a cozy feel all year long.

Contrasting Colors – This fireplace catches your eye with contrasting colors. A white mantel and a sleek black stone hearth add bold style to the space, but still has a traditional feel.

For outdoor fireplaces, you’ll encounter many stone options from a traditional brick, stucco or granite facade to more elaborate stonework available with a custom build.

C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC can make your fireplace dreams come true. We can help you choose the perfect material, color and style to fit your space. Give us a call today!

What to Expect When Getting New Countertops

Posted on September 17, 2018July 16, 2021

Are you in the market for new countertops? At C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC, we work with many different customers on many different types of projects. However, one thing that all customers should remember is: new countertops do not happen quickly. We take the time to make sure that each countertop is fabricated to the highest quality. Our attention to detail sets us apart from our competitors. Fabricating and installing countertops is an involved process. Depending on how busy we are when you decide to take on this exciting project, it could be up to 18 weeks from the time you have selected your slabs, signed the contract and made the deposit. Once you have signed the contract, you will be added to the schedule and we will install countertops in the order the contract was submitted. That is why you will want to get started on the process way BEFORE you are actually ready for the install. Quality fabricators are always BUSY (that is a good sign), but it means you have to be patient and trust your fabricator to get to you as fast as possible. The average wait is anywhere from 12 – 18 weeks.

Here are a few different scenarios that might occur depending on your situation, and a few tips to help you in the process:

NEW CONSTRUCTION: If you are in the process of new construction, then you will want to begin looking at countertop slab options during the early stages of construction. It will be very helpful to have a layout of the kitchen/bathrooms, along with rough measurements. The layout will allow the experts at C and C Stoneworks to estimate how many slabs you will need to provide an accurate cost, based on what you select. You will want to keep us updated on where you are in the building process so your slabs will be ready for install when your contractor says it is time.
REMODELING WITH NEW CABINETS: If you are remodeling a kitchen or bathroom and putting in new cabinetry, then you will want to begin looking at slabs immediately. A layout of the countertop area with measurements will allow us to estimate how many slabs you will need along with a cost based on the material you select. Because the process of getting countertops can be lengthy, you will need to get on the schedule as soon as possible. Otherwise, you will have cabinets being installed and no countertops to put on them. Planning ahead is critical to reduce the stress of remodeling.
REMODELING WITH EXISTING CABINETS: If you are remodeling a kitchen or bathroom, but are keeping your existing cabinets, you will want to begin looking at slabs as soon as you start thinking about the remodeling process. Providing a layout of the countertop area, with measurements, will allow the fabricators at C and C Stoneworks to estimate how many slabs you will need to provide an accurate cost, based on what you select. You should not remove your old countertops until it is time to install the new ones. The old countertops will be removed by the professionals at C and C Stoneworks on the day of installation.

Your Steps:

Make the decision to get new countertops
Reach out to C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC
Provide layout of countertop area with rough measurements
Select slabs (this can take days or weeks)
Get estimate
Select sink
Sign contract/pay deposit
Purchase faucets

Fabricator’s (C and C Stoneworks’) Steps:

Show customer slabs
Prepare estimate based on layout and slabs selected
Finalize contract
Put customer on schedule (12–18 weeks on average)
Prepare template at customer’s home (done couple of weeks before install)
Begin cutting stone (could take a couple of days)
Polishing of stone (could take a couple of days)
Schedule install date (will give customer a couple of days’ notice)
Haul slabs to install
Remove old countertops (unless it is new construction)
Install countertops
Install new sinks
Cut holes for faucets
Secure basic plumbing
Clean up from installation

Waiting is the difficult part; however, planning ahead can expedite the process. At C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC, we take the time to do things the right way. The difference between good countertops and great countertops is all in the details. If you’re thinking about new countertops, contact C and C Stoneworks today to get started on the process as soon possible! Not only will we install your countertops, we will also install sinks and faucets to help complete the remodel process.

The Best Countertops for Outdoor Kitchens

Posted on August 24, 2018July 16, 2021

Outdoor kitchens are great for summer barbecues and cookouts on game days. With the mild weather we have here in eastern North Carolina, outdoor kitchens are especially great because they can be used almost all year around. When you’re designing your outdoor kitchen area, one very important thing shouldn’t be overlooked. No, it isn’t the grill (even though that is important too). It’s your countertop choice! You should keep in mind that not only will the counters have to withstand the same conditions as those in your home, but also the conditions outside like sunlight, temperature changes and weather. Here is a little more about a few options to help you determine the best countertops for your outdoor oasis.

Quartz is a very durable material and comes in a wide variety of styles and colors, which may have you adding quartz to the top of your list for the best countertop option for your outdoor kitchen. But, while quartz countertops may handle the outdoors fine, the resins used in their construction may not be able to stand up to prolonged sun exposure without suffering damage. You will notice that the material will start to yellow over time.
Marble: It may be hard for you to imagine that polished marble countertops wouldn’t be a good choice for your outdoor kitchen. But in reality, they can easily be damaged by outdoor elements. Porous stones, like marble, may look great at first but can be easily stained and your outdoor countertops could be left marked by grease. If you do decide to use marble for your outdoor kitchen countertops, we recommend a honed finish since rain, wind, snow and weather in general will wear away a shiny, polished finish.
Granite countertops are hard to beat for all-around ease-of-use, durability and maintenance. That is why granite is at the top of our list for the best countertops for your outdoor kitchen. Granite is good at withstanding wear and tear, as well as hot, cold and wet conditions. With simple care and minimal maintenance, your granite countertops can stay looking great. However, some lighter color granites, like whites and light greys, have natural iron deposits in them. Because we have acid rain the iron deposits will begin to rust. So, you need to be mindful when choosing the color for your outside granite. Especially for outdoor countertops, C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC recommends sealing your countertops. This is a great idea no matter where they are used because sealing prevents stains.

There you have it, a little more about some of your options for your outdoor kitchen. Granite is your safest bet, but it isn’t your only option. Contact the experts at C and C Stoneworks today .

We can help you find the perfect material, color and style to make your outdoor space come alive. We’ll consider your outdoor kitchen structure, availability of shade, climate, and the amount of time and effort you’re willing to spend on maintenance. Our expert countertop installers will help you create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Get ready to fire up the grill!

There’s More to Consider Than Color When Choosing Your Countertop

Posted on July 24, 2018July 26, 2021

The first thing people think about when deciding on new kitchen or bathroom countertops is the color. But, there is much more to consider than just the color. While it is important that it matches your décor, here are a few other things you should think about when shopping for your perfect countertops:

Material
Once upon a time, homeowners shopping for new countertops for their remodel went straight to granite. While granite is still a great choice, today there are many more material options available. In fact, manmade materials, like Quartz, are now making a run for the top spot when it comes to the most in-demand surface. Granite is no longer a “required element” in the kitchen, so don’t be afraid to branch out. However, with all that being said, granite is still one of the most durable countertop surfaces on the market today, and it comes in many colors and patterns.

Functionality
Where is the countertop going? In the kitchen? Bathroom? Mud room or mantel? While there are an abundance of choices for countertops out there, remember that not all materials are created equal. Be sure that the material you select is appropriate for the space it will be used in. Granite is a popular choice for kitchens because of its heat and wear resistant properties. Marble is also another top countertop choice because of its stunning color. Marble is best used in areas of lower traffic because it can be vulnerable to scratching and staining.

Maintenance
Every countertop material requires some sort of maintenance, from cleaning up spills right away to regular sealing to protect the surface. When deciding on your countertop, consider how much time and energy you are willing to spend on these tasks to ensure that you choose the right countertop for you.

Texture
We know that color is important, after all your countertops can set the entire mood of a room! But, have you considered the texture? Texture is an important element in interior design today. You can create texture in your room by the finish that you choose for your countertop. Glossy finishes were the norm for the past few decades, but certain colors can be unforgiving. Today, many people are opting for matte finishes that better conceal fingerprints and smudges. Plus, matte finishes can create a warmer, more welcoming feel in a space.

If you are looking for new countertops, contact C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC today. We can help you find the perfect countertop for your space. C and C Stoneworks specializes in natural and engineered stone fabrication and installation across all of eastern North Carolina. We’re happy to show you examples and help guide you in the direction of your dream space.

Stone Countertop Installation – C and C Stoneworks vs. Big Box Retailers

Posted on June 19, 2018July 26, 2021

If you are getting ready to start a kitchen or bathroom remodel, odds are a big box retailer will probably be the first place you think to look. You know that they carry a wide variety of products and offer “lower prices.” But, don’t be fooled by their eye-catching tactics, these big box stores are not necessarily the best place to purchase your project materials – especially if your remodel involves a new stone countertop.

When you work with C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC, a local fabrication shop, you have the advantage of getting all of your questions answered directly by the person who is going to shape your new, beautiful bathroom or kitchen. We offer personalized consultations to each of our customers so that they fully understand every detail of their project.

Unlike big box stores, we focus on the quality of each piece and not mass production. We are always stocked with rare, expertly curated and exotic products you just can’t find at our competitors. Many times at big box stores, you will only be shown a 4 x 4 sample of the stone. This is not representative of the full piece. C and C Stoneworks will show you the full slab!

When it comes to countertop installation, big box stores don’t always have a qualified installation crew or staff. Our team is made up of experts in design, install and project management. Many times when you purchase stone countertops from a big box retailer, they are installed by a third party. With us, we do it all – from design, in-house custom fabrication and installation.

At C and C Stoneworks we are committed to providing the most eye-catching countertops. We use solid slabs, unlike many big box stores that will piece the stone together with seams. We hide seams and make the grains flow. This is an area where C and C Stoneworks out performs our competitors.

Are you ready to ditch the big box superstores? Call C and C Stoneworks in Greenville, NC for your next remodel or project. We give each of our customers the personalized attention they deserve!

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Author: C and C Stoneworks