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Granite Countertops – Are They Worth the Investment?

If you’re considering granite countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, you’ve probably done your research. You know they’re durable and beautiful. But are granite countertops worth the investment?

At C&C Stoneworks, we work with customers throughout eastern North Carolina who want to know that selecting granite is not just a visual upgrade, but a practical and financially sound one too.

Granite countertop pricing can vary depending on the color, slab size, and edge detail, but it typically falls within the mid-to-high range of the countertop market. While the initial investment is higher than budget materials like laminate or tile, it often pays off over time. Granite offers significant value, considering its durability, aesthetic appeal, and minimal need for replacement. We’re going to break down the real return on granite and why it remains a top-tier choice for homeowners looking to combine everyday functionality with long-term value.

Is Granite a Smart Choice?

Granite offers more than just good looks. As a natural stone, it brings one-of-a-kind veining, bold textures, and a rich color palette that adds instant sophistication to any space. But beyond aesthetics, granite delivers where it matters most:

  • It resists heat, making it perfect for busy kitchens.
  • It stands up to scratches and dings from daily use.
  • It complements both modern and traditional home designs.
  • Each slab is unique, which means your countertops will never look like anyone else’s. That level of personalization adds both emotional and resale value to your home.

Long-Term Durability

One of the top reasons granite is a worthwhile investment is its exceptional longevity. When properly sealed and maintained, granite countertops can last for decades, often outliving the cabinets and appliances around them. Granite is incredibly resilient against:

  • Heat from pots, pans, and hot styling tools
  • Scratches from knives, utensils, and everyday wear
  • Stains, when sealed as recommended
  • You get a surface that performs beautifully under pressure, ideal for both high-use kitchens and elegant bathrooms. Unlike surfaces that degrade over time, granite continues to look better with age, adding long-term value to your investment.

Adds Value to Your Home

When deciding if granite is worth the investment, it’s essential to look beyond the surface. Granite countertops offer real, lasting value, not just in your daily life, but also in your home’s resale potential and financial future. Here are some key reasons why granite delivers a return on your investment.

  • Boosts Home Resale Value
  • Signals Quality and Craftsmanship
  • Offers Excellent Return Over Time
  • Reduces the Need for Future Upgrades

Maintenance Is Easy

Granite may seem like a high-maintenance luxury, but the reality is far more approachable. Daily cleaning only requires a soft cloth and mild soap. With proper sealing, recommended every 1 to 2 years, granite resists staining from wine, oil, and acidic foods.

Granite offers an excellent balance of low maintenance and high durability when compared to:

  • Marble, which stains and scratches more easily
  • Wood, which requires more frequent sealing and is susceptible to water damage
  • Laminate, which lacks the heat resistance and lifespan of granite
  • With just minimal effort, your countertops can maintain their showroom finish for decades.

Why Choose C&C Stoneworks for Your Granite Countertops?

At C&C Stoneworks, we bring over 15 years of experience in helping North Carolina homeowners find the perfect granite countertops for their space. Our team is committed to delivering high-quality granite countertops that reflect your style, meet your needs, and provide exceptional long-term value.

If you’re considering your options and wondering if granite is the right choice for your home, we’re here to help. We believe granite countertops should be more than just beautiful; they should be built to last and worth every penny. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and explore our full selection of granite countertop options.

4 Things to Consider When Choosing a Kitchen Countertop

One of the first things people notice when they walk into your home is your kitchen countertop. The kitchen is where people gather during the holidays and parties. It is the center of your home, where special times are shared with family and friends over home-cooked meals.

Just as your kitchen is the center, or heart, of your home, the countertop is probably the most noticeable feature in the kitchen, so ensuring you choose the right countertop for the center of your home is very important.

This blog will answer your questions and give you some things to consider when selecting the right countertop for your kitchen.

You must first consider the countertop’s usage, followed closely by its durability and maintenance requirements. The countertop should also fit the aesthetic of your home, elevating the entire kitchen’s appearance. Also, as much as we’d like everyone’s budget to be unlimited, we know that price is one of the most important considerations.

We will discuss all four of these in more detail to help you select the perfect countertop for your home.

Usage

Certain countertops are better suited for certain activities. If you use your countertops for cooking or entertaining, a more durable option, such as granite, may be better. Durable countertops are also perfect for families with children or when teaching loved ones to cook. However, if you don’t use your countertop often, a less durable and expensive option may be perfect.

Durability and Maintenance

Durability and maintenance are also considerations when choosing a countertop for you and your family. Again, if you use your countertop often, you will want to select a more durable one. However, durability does not always mean lower maintenance. Granite is one of the strongest countertops available, but you must seal it every few years to keep germs, moisture, and stains from absorbing into the stone’s pores. Quartz, on the other hand, does not require this sealant. It all depends on your commitment to maintaining your countertop.

Appearance

Your kitchen countertop is a statement piece, especially on an island that is a focal point in your home. You need a statement piece that is visually appealing to you and fits into the aesthetic you are trying to achieve. Most countertops, such as marble, granite, and quartz, have an endless variety of colors and patterns for you to choose from, but selecting the appearance that speaks to you while meeting your durability, maintenance, and pricing needs can be tricky. By taking the time to review all options thoroughly, you can ensure that you will have a countertop you love.

Pricing

As much as we wish we did not, everyone cares about price, which can be the determining factor when choosing your countertop. You may love the durability and appearance of a countertop, but its expense is out of your price range. On the other hand, you may find a more economically priced countertop, but the durability is poor, and it requires a lot of maintenance. Finding a happy middle ground between durability and appearance that meets your needs and is within your budget is important.

The Choice is Yours

Finding the right kitchen countertop is not an easy task. The first step is to understand what your needs are for a countertop. What will you typically use it for, and how often? What is the style you are going for? What is your budget? Once you understand your requirements for a countertop, you can start the search process. The search may take a little time, but if you put in the effort, you can find a countertop that fits your home, and you will love it for years to come.

Eastern North Carolina’s Best Countertop Installation, Remodels and More!

Visit our showroom for the best selection of granite, quartz, and marble countertop solutions in eastern North Carolina. At C & C Stoneworks, we’ve been creating beautiful kitchens and bathrooms throughout North Carolina for decades. We love what we do, and we love helping our customers create their dream kitchens and baths.

If you want to update your kitchen, our designers are here to help you. A great way to start is to visit our beautiful showroom to view our impressive selection of countertop options. Our team will be happy to make your dream kitchen come to life.

We specialize in quartz, granite, and marble, and provide exceptional quality, service, and delivery. Come see us today.

Countertop Options for Your Outdoor Kitchen

With summer right around the corner, you may be looking to upgrade your outdoor space. An outdoor kitchen can be the perfect spot for entertaining, enjoying, and having fun. When remodeling or installing an outdoor kitchen area, consider a few key factors when selecting your countertop material. Not all countertops are created equal, and many of them are not suitable for withstanding the outdoor elements. We’ve broken down the pros and cons of different countertop materials so you can narrow down your options and make the best decision for your outdoor space.

What Factors to Consider

When selecting a countertop for your outdoor kitchen, several factors should be considered before making a decision. Consider the weather conditions in your area. You will want a durable countertop that can withstand every season without fading or cracking. You should also consider the different functions of each material. Some materials are more visually appealing but may not last as long as you’d like. Other materials may be less expensive but are prone to scratches and stains. It’s essential to understand the differences in countertop materials so you can select the one that best suits your needs.

We’ve put together a list of the top recommended outdoor countertop options, along with their pros and cons, so you can decide which material is right for your outdoor space!

Granite is a popular and appealing outdoor countertop material. It comes in a variety of colors, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your outdoor space. You’ll also appreciate that granite is extremely low maintenance and easy to clean, so you don’t have to worry about every little spill or stain as long as your countertop is sealed correctly.

PROS:

    • Granite is highly resilient and resists scratches and dings.
    • Granite withstands outdoor elements well.

CONS:

    • Granite absorbs heat and can get extremely hot.
    • Granite is porous and will absorb liquids and stains if not properly sealed.

Soapstone is a sleek outdoor countertop option that requires minimal maintenance. Soapstone is also very resistant to heat and absorbs it evenly, so you don’t have to worry about your countertop choice in extreme temperatures. With soapstone, you can trust that your countertop will last for years in the NC weather without fading.

PROS:

    • Soapstone is non-porous and stain-resistant, making it extremely easy to keep clean.
    • Soapstone can also withstand acidic foods such as tomatoes, which is a plus for those in the market for an outside kitchen prep space.

CONS:

    • Soapstone is softer than other materials, making it prone to chips and scratches.
    • Soapstone is only available in a limited number of color options.

Dekton is a timeless material choice that is extremely low-maintenance and comes in a wide range of colors and finishes. Dekton countertops will not fade or degrade due to their high UV light resistance. Because it is manmade, Dekton is an extremely versatile material, making it a great outdoor countertop choice.

PROS:

    • Dekton has a high scratch and stain resistance and is extremely durable and long-lasting.
    • Dekton can withstand extreme temperatures, making it the perfect material for an outdoor countertop.

CONS:

    • Dekton is more expensive than other materials due to its durability.
    • Dekton countertops have limited pattern and texture options which may limit design choices.

What to Avoid

Depending on your wants and needs for your outdoor kitchen space, there are many great material options to choose from. There are also materials to avoid, including quartz, laminates, and certain types of wood. These materials are composed of ingredients that do not withstand outdoor environments well, either breaking down, fading due to UV damage, or rotting in wet conditions. These materials are better suited for indoor areas where they are protected from the elements.

At C and C Stoneworks, we’re happy to review your options to help you choose the right countertop material. Our team of designers can help you determine your needs to create the outdoor kitchen of your dreams. Visit our showroom located at 6144 NC Hwy 43 South in Greenville, North Carolina, or call us today at 252-902-5535 to get started.

What are the Pros & Cons of Granite vs Quartz?

If you have been researching which material would work best in your kitchen and have narrowed it down to granite or quartz, this blog is for you. Both are excellent choices and have advantages and disadvantages, which we will discuss to help you make your final decision.

Let Us Start with Granite Countertops

Here are the advantages of selecting granite countertops:

  • Granite is durable.

The top benefit of choosing granite for your bathroom or kitchen countertops is its durability. Granite resists chips and scratches like no other natural stone. It is the second most durable natural stone in the world, next to diamond. Keep in mind that you should still always use a cutting board with sharp knives, as there is a possibility of damage.

  • Granite is heat resistant.

Granite is naturally formed by heat and pressure, making it heat-friendly. If you accidentally place a hot pan on a granite countertop for a short period of time, it is unlikely to harm it. However, extreme heat or prolonged exposure to heat can damage the sealant.

  • Granite is stain-resistant.

With proper sealing, granite is stain-resistant, and its resistance to stains will depend on how well it is maintained. When we say stain-resistant, we are not saying that liquid and food spills can be ignored on a granite countertop. They should be wiped up immediately with water and a mild detergent. It is essential to seal granite regularly, and you should know that repeated application of cleaning products and disinfectants can affect the sealant.

Here are the disadvantages of granite countertops:

  • Granite requires regular sealing.

Because granite is porous, it needs to be resealed annually. A poorly sealed granite countertop can absorb liquids, grease, and bacteria.

  • Granite Can Crack

This may confuse you because we noted durability as an advantage of granite. However, if a sharp or heavy object hits granite, it could chip. Should that happen, the experts at C&C Stoneworks offer granite repair services and can restore your granite countertops to new condition.

  • Granite can be expensive.

There are three different levels of granite, and the cost varies depending on the grade. The grade of the granite slab is determined by some factors: its colors, veins, markings, thickness, and where it was quarried.

Next up are Quartz Countertops

Here are some of the advantages of choosing quartz countertops.

  • Quartz is highly durable.

Quartz is harder than granite, making it more durable. Some even say that it is nearly indestructible.

  • Quartz is stain-resistant.
    It is highly stain-resistant and very easy to clean, but it is not entirely stain-free. While it is difficult to stain quartz, food items such as turmeric or food dyes that aren’t cleaned up promptly could cause moderate to very faint discoloration on quartz countertops.
  • Quartz comes in a wide variety of styles and colors.

Since granite is manmade, engineered quartz comes in almost any color, pattern, and style you can imagine. From traditional and minimalist whites, browns, grays, and blacks to more vibrant, funky colors, quartz can complement any personality or style.

  • Quartz does not require sealing.

Quartz is an engineered stone. Its composition is 90-95% quartz crystals, with the rest being resins that bind the particles together, making the surface non-porous. This means it does not require sealing.

Here are some of the disadvantages of quartz countertops:

  • Quartz is sensitive to direct contact with extreme heat.

Prolonged contact with high heat or sudden temperature changes can cause damage like discoloration, warping, or even cracking, especially from very hot items directly on the surface.

  • Quartz can be slightly more expensive.

Quartz countertops typically cost more than natural stone countertops due to their durability, but they can still compete with the cost of granite.

  • Quartz may require more seams.
    Quartz slabs tend to be on the smaller side compared to natural stone. Depending on your specific selections and layout, there may need to be more seams in order to properly fit.
  • Quartz is not recommended for outdoors.

The main reason is that the resins that bind the countertops can fade or discolor in direct sunlight. Granite, slate, and other natural stone countertops are much better choices for outdoor living spaces.

Still Deciding Between Quartz & Granite?

If you have questions about the difference between quartz and granite and which stone might best benefit your living space, call us at 252-902-5535, stop by our showroom, or schedule a design consultation at C&C Stoneworks. We are located in Greenville, North Carolina, and provide expert quartz and granite countertop installation services throughout eastern North Carolina, including New Bern, Morehead City, Goldsboro, Washington, and other surrounding areas.

Bathroom Countertop Choices We Love

You can go two ways with your bathroom countertops. You can choose to make a statement or complement other finishes in the bathroom. If you select a countertop material with a great deal of veining or an interesting color, it will become the focal point of your bathroom. However, if you choose something more subtle and classic, it could complement other finishes within the space. The choice is yours; what is your aesthetic? What is your style?

Regardless of which direction you choose, we have some practical considerations you should consider when looking at bathroom countertop materials. Do you want something cost-effective or something custom? Will you be okay with the aging that comes with natural stone, or do you want a surface that will be entirely stain-free?

Remember, makeup, hair products, and anything with oil – meaning everything you use in your bathroom – can stain natural stone.

We’ll outline some pros and cons of popular countertop materials—including quartz, granite, and marble—to help you decide which is best for your bathroom, whether you’re building a new home, remodeling your current home, or sprucing up the space.

Marble

With so many available varieties, marble is a classic choice that can suit almost anyone’s style. You can go bold or subtle with marble, but it will age, and it can stain and scratch. If you like the idea of your space feeling “lived-in,” the timeless choice of marble may be right for you.

Marble is a very versatile natural stone. You can choose from light or dark colors, some with more and some with less veining, which can set the mood of your bathroom. But be prepared to keep a hand towel to wipe up excess moisture, and you need to reseal it regularly to keep it looking newer for longer.

Quartzite

Quartzite looks a lot like marble and comes in a variety of colors. It is a very dense stone that will hold up better than porous alternatives like marble. Quartzite is beautiful and offers the appearance of movement and sparkle throughout. However, the downside is that quartzite tends to be more expensive, depending on what you are searching for. Higher quality, thicker slaps in rare colors can increase the price of quartzite countertops.

Granite

Granite is a popular bathroom choice because it costs less than other materials and is easy to clean. It is also dense and will not scratch or stain as quickly as marble, and some unique slabs can add the real “wow” factor to your bathroom.

Quartz

Quartz is low-maintenance, resilient to staining and scratching, and always tends to look new. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something more complementary; it probably isn’t going to be the star of your bathroom. Marble and quartzite are more popular choices; however, a lot of people are moving to quartz because it resembles natural materials.

If you are considering a bathroom remodel, C & C Stoneworks can help! Our showroom has numerous options, and our designers can answer any questions to help you choose the bathroom countertop that best suits your needs. Visit 6144 NC Hwy 43 South in Greenville, North Carolina, today, or contact us at 252-902-5535.

Coordinating Your Backsplash with Your Countertops

The kitchen is the heart of the home, a place where memories are made. Among the countless design elements that make up your kitchen, the countertops and backsplash stand out as both practical and aesthetic features in your home. Your countertop should be the centerpiece of your design, followed by the backsplash. Not only does your backsplash protect your walls from spills and splatters, but it also adds personality and style to the space.

Choosing the right kitchen backsplash to pair with your countertops can be daunting, but with guidance from C and C Stoneworks, you can find the perfect match for your home. Here is our guide to help you navigate the selection process.

Choose Your Style

Before diving into specific materials and patterns, take a moment to consider the overall aesthetic of your kitchen. Are you aiming for a cozy farmhouse, sleek modern, or a classic traditional design? Your backsplash should complement your kitchen’s and countertops’ existing aesthetic rather than clash with them. You can also take cues from your cabinets and flooring to ensure a cohesive look.

Countertops Matter

As we already mentioned, you should first consider your countertops. If you already have a slab that you love, this makes your life a lot easier. When choosing a backsplash, you have a definite idea of what you need to match. If you have not selected your countertops, consider what options will best suit your needs. Some of the best stone materials include granite, quartzite, quartz, and marble. Each of these materials has unique benefits, so make sure you choose something based on your aesthetic, durability, and longevity-related needs.

Once you know precisely what countertop you will have in your kitchen, you can think about what backsplash options are best suited for them. No matter their color, solid-color countertops tend to go best with more sophisticated backsplash tiles. Detailed backsplash designs such as geometric patterns and organic shapes will be the focal point of your room when you use them with a minimalist countertop. Swirling glass tiles in multiple colors are also an excellent choice. The same applies to backsplash tiles organized in patterns reminiscent of stained glass.

On the other hand, if you have intricately patterned marble countertops or a slab strewn with gorgeous shimmering flecks, you might want to keep the countertop as the main focal point of your space. A solid backsplash with neutral colors might be the way to go here.

Maintenance is Important

Have you considered implementing a full-height countertop backsplash to complement your countertops? This option offers numerous advantages, including a seamless and cohesive appearance throughout your kitchen or bathroom space. Additionally, this design choice significantly enhances the ease of cleaning, making maintenance a breeze. Different materials have different levels of maintenance requirements. For instance, while tile backsplashes are popular, they often pose challenges when cleaning due to grout lines. On the other hand, opting for a full-height stone backsplash allows for simple cleaning using warm, soapy water. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision that balances aesthetic preferences with practical considerations for maintenance.

Get Started Today

Now that you have some of the best countertop backsplash ideas, it is time to remodel your kitchen. Contact us to ask any remaining questions about getting a backsplash. We are happy to give you more kitchen countertops and backsplash ideas before providing a quote. Since we are committed to helping you make the most of your next interior renovations, we look forward to hearing from you soon.

Commercial Applications for Quartz

If you are getting ready to build a commercial space or are considering giving your business an upfit, quartz is a great option for reception areas, conference room tables, office and commercial kitchens, bar tops, and so much more.

Many factors make quartz a great option for commercial use, but there are four main factors you should consider when choosing materials for your business: durability, ease of care, versatility, and aesthetics.

Durability

Quartz is perfect for commercial spaces in a variety of applications. From reception desks to conference tables to commercial kitchens, quartz is durable enough for everyday wear and tear from heavy traffic.

To understand its durability, it is important to know what quartz is. Quartz is an engineered stone material designed to stand up to hard use. Quartzite is one of nature’s hardest materials, and more than 90% of quartz is composed of quartzite and other natural stone materials. Because of its properties, the final product is scratch-, chip-, and heat-resistant and can be used in a variety of applications.

Quartz is resilient and beautiful on its own and requires no polishing or sealing. It would also be an excellent choice for a bar or pub that receives heavy traffic or a conference room table. Because of its durability, a conference room table would maintain its lustrous appearance for years to come. And a quartz bar top could withstand the wear and tear of customers and employees from plates sliding across the surface to bottles and glasses being knocked against the top.

Ease of Care

In addition to its durability, quartz is incredibly easy to care for. Unlike many other natural stone materials, quartz does not require any sealing because it is non-porous. Natural stone, such as marble and granite, require yearly (or more) sealing to keep it looking clean and new.

Quartz is resistant to harmful bacteria that can grow in porous materials and cause health concerns. This makes quartz a great option for kitchens and bathrooms where there is regular moisture.

Quartz is also stain-resistant — there are no pores for stains to soak into. Just wipe away any spills with warm water and mild soap. Natural stone such as marble stains easily because it is a softer, more porous stone, whereas quartz is solid and will not stain easily. Quartz is also available in patterns that simulate marble — without the stain factor.

Aesthetics

Quartz is also an attractive material that comes in a variety of colors and patterns to enhance any commercial space. Quartz is superior to other natural stone surfaces because it simulates the look of natural stone surfaces without the imperfections and inconsistencies of natural stone. Quartz countertops are always consistent in color and pattern, and they are also available in solid colors and patterns.

Quartz is an engineered stone created from quartzite and other natural minerals. As a man-made material, consistency in color and pattern can be controlled unlike natural stone. For example, granite often varies in color and pattern from piece to piece, meaning what you see in the showroom may not be exactly what is installed in your home. Quartz, on the other hand, is an honest material — what you see is always what you get.

Versatility

Quartz is not limited to countertops. It can be used for reception desks, backsplashes, bar tops, conference tables, “waterfall” installations and more. It is available in many colors and designs that can bring a unique aesthetic to any space.

Quartz not only adds a welcoming, luxurious look to the reception desk, but it also provides a practical element to a lobby. As one of the most durable surfacing materials on the market, quartz works well in heavily trafficked spaces such as reception areas. While most used for countertops, it could also be used in many other applications.

Why Quartz?

Whether it be a commercial kitchen, bathroom, or foyer, your commercial space will see more traffic than its residential counterparts. While many homeowners still choose natural stone surfaces, quartz is the best material for commercial spaces because of its durability, maintainability, and aesthetics.

When building a commercial space, the last thing you want to worry about is the integrity of your building materials. Your space should be something you can depend on, and quartz will erase your worries.

If you need help deciding which stone to choose for your commercial space, C & C Stoneworks can help make that decision easy. Our design specialists can help you choose the perfect stone from our wide selection of products. We serve eastern North Carolina, including Greenville, Washington, Goldsboro, Morehead City, and New Bern. Stop by our showroom at 6144 NC 43 S Greenville, NC to get started!

C & C Stonework’s Guide to Updating Your Countertops

Have you been living in your home for over 10 years? Did you recently purchase an older home? Are you looking for a bathroom or kitchen renovation that fits your style? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are ready to update your kitchen or bathroom countertops.

C & C Stoneworks has put together this straightforward guide to walk you through the process of customizing your dream countertops with our expert team. From your initial consultation with our amazing design consultant to the final installation by our team of experienced professionals, C & C Stoneworks is ready to make the process as seamless as possible.

Step 1: Consider a Design Consultation

It is helpful for you to explore countertop options on your own, however consulting with a design professional can provide invaluable guidance and expertise on making final selections. At C&C Stoneworks we have an interior design consultant, design assistants, and showroom assistants available to help you narrow down your options based on your specific design vision and needs. Our team has years of experience and in-depth knowledge of different countertop materials, their characteristics, and how they fit within various kitchen design styles. Our showroom is filled with a variety of countertop materials and finishes from brand partners and trusted suppliers. We can help you with recommendations tailored to your preferences and budget. If you prefer an in-home design consultation, one can be scheduled. This is where our design consultant can come to you, and you can view samples in the comfort of your home. Whether in the showroom or in your home, the goal of a design consultation is to help you get a clear vision of how your new design will complement your home’s existing décor.

Step 2: With You Every Step of the Way

Once you have decided to proceed with your kitchen or bathroom countertop project, the C & C Stoneworks team will be with you every step of the way. Our team of experts will guide you through the entire process of selecting the best countertop for your needs. We will understand your needs and help you select the natural stone countertop that fits your style and lifestyle. We will be there to answer any questions or concerns you have along the way. Our ultimate goal is to ensure you get the countertop of your dreams.

Step 3: Template and Layout

Our next steps will be to schedule a template date when our experienced team will come to your home to obtain exact measurements with our laser template machine. These measurements will be used by our skilled team who will create a digital layout highlighting how your countertops will look upon completion. This step ensures your countertop will fit perfectly in your kitchen or bathroom.

Step 4: Custom Cutting

Once the measurements have been taken and finalized, we will begin the process of preparing the natural stone you choose for custom cutting. With state-of-the-art machinery, we guarantee precise and accurate cuts that will bring your vision to life. From cutting the stone to finishing the edges we want nothing more than to assure your countertops are perfect.

Step 5: Installation Day

The day you have been waiting for is finally here – installation day! Our experienced team will promptly arrive at your home as scheduled. We are there to remove the materials and professionally install your new countertops, sinks, and backsplash with the precision and care eastern North Carolina has come to expect from C & C Stoneworks. And don’t worry – we will be sure to leave your home immaculate, so you can start enjoying your upgraded kitchen or bathroom immediately.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Space

Finally, with your new countertops installed, it is time to entertain and show off your transformed space to family and friends. Whether you are cooking a meal in your updated kitchen, serving appetizers on your new countertops or bar space, or simply relaxing in your updated bathroom, your dream countertops are sure to bring joy and satisfaction for years to come.

At C & C Stoneworks we want to see you happy in your home with beautiful countertops. If you have more questions about countertop installation, want help picking out your new countertops or are ready to have your dream counters installed, call us today at (252) 902-5535.

Top Reasons You Should Upgrade Your Kitchen Countertops

You could tackle many home improvement projects that would add value to your home and transform its overall appearance. However, installing new natural stone countertops is the easiest way to transform your home immediately and increase its value. Whether you change the countertops in your bathroom, renovate your kitchen, or create a stylish indoor or outdoor bar area, new countertops can make a difference.

Here are three reasons why new natural stone countertops are an excellent investment for your home.

1. New Countertops Increase the Value of Your Home

One of the most undeniable reasons to invest in new countertops is that they will increase your home’s value and are a huge selling point for home buyers. The National Association of Realtors (NAR) found that homeowners who upgrade their countertops experience high satisfaction, want to spend more time at home, and also make back about 60% of the upgrade cost when it comes time to sell.

New countertops can enhance the aesthetic of your home’s kitchen or bathroom – the two areas buyers focus on the most when purchasing a home. High-quality materials like granite, quartz, or marble look luxurious and offer durability and longevity. These attributes can significantly boost the market value of your home, making it a more attractive option for potential buyers.

2. New Countertops Enhance the Overall Aesthetic Appeal of Your Home

Countertops are one of the first things people notice when they walk into a kitchen or bathroom. A sleek, modern countertop can instantly update the look of your space, making it feel more contemporary and stylish. With a wide range of materials, colors, and finishes, you can customize your countertops to match your taste and your home’s existing décor. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of marble, the rustic charm of butcher block, or the sleek look of quartz, there’s a countertop material that will enhance the visual appeal of your space.

Homes with highly outdated kitchens and bathrooms will likely be outdated everywhere else. So, if you’re looking to refresh your entire home, upgrading your countertops is the best place to begin. You’ll be amazed at the transformation once your kitchen counters are upgraded. Beautiful countertops will set the tone for the rest of your home and be a focal point for anyone welcome inside.

3. New Countertops are a Quick and Easy Upgrade to Your Home

Installing new countertops is relatively quick and straightforward compared to other home renovation projects. With the help of a professional installer, you can transform the look of your kitchen or bathroom in just a few days. This makes new countertops a practical choice for homeowners who want to make a significant impact without the hassle of a lengthy renovation process.

Once you upgrade your countertops, you shouldn’t have to replace them again for a long time as long as you select a timeless design and a high-quality product. The team at C & C Stoneworks can help you choose the right countertop option.

Upgrade Your Countertops with C & C Stoneworks

New countertops are more than just a surface to place your toiletries, prepare food, or serve a meal – they reflect your style and are a vital component of your home’s functionality and value. Whether you’re planning to sell your home soon or want to enjoy a more beautiful and efficient space, investing in new countertops is an intelligent decision. From increasing home value to improving functionality and aesthetics, new countertops offer a range of benefits that make them one of the best investments you can make in your home. So, why wait? Upgrade your countertops today and enjoy the many advantages they bring to your space!

If you are ready to reap the benefits of countertops, C & C Stoneworks is prepared to help. We’re with our customers every step of the way. We offer premium granite, marble, porcelain, and quartz countertops that are a surefire way to upgrade the look and feel of your kitchen and home.

Could You Be Damaging Your Quartz Countertops?

Just because quartz countertops are among the strongest countertops you can purchase, that does not mean they cannot be damaged. If you have quartz countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, over time they could show signs of wear and tear.

Protect your investment and read this blog. It will review some of the ways that you could be damaging your quartz kitchen and bathroom countertops.

Using Sharp Objects to Cut Food on the Countertops

One way to avoid damaging your countertops is to always use a cutting board and avoid cutting directly on your kitchen countertops.

Although quartz is  durable, cutting directly on their surface with knives could scratch them. You need to be especially careful if you are using knives that are made with diamonds. The Mohs scale measures the hardness of minerals, and quartz is 7 to 7.5 and diamonds have a Mohs hardness of 10. This means that those knives can scratch minerals with a lower hardness – so they will scratch quartz countertops.

Putting Hot Items Directly on the Countertops

Aside from not using your quartz kitchen countertops as a cutting board, you should also avoid putting hot pots, pans and serving wear directly on them. Quartz countertops are able to withstand some amount of heat, because unlike other types of stone such as granite and marble, quartz is manufactured. The quartz used to create your quartz kitchen and bath countertops is resistant to heat, however the resin added is not.

Thus, heat greater than 390 degrees Fahrenheit can scorch your quartz countertops. Using trivets or other items to keep scorching hot items from touching the surface can prevent damage. Remember ladies, those flatirons that go over 400 degrees can scorch your quartz bathroom countertops, so always make sure you are laying it on a towel and cutting it off when it is not in use.

Using the Wrong Cleaning Products

One of the more common ways quartz countertops are harmed or damaged is that the wrong cleaning products are used on them. Just because you have been using a specific cleaner on your countertops does not mean that it is the correct product for your bathroom or kitchen quartz countertops.

There are everyday cleaning products that may contain alkaline or acid that are not good for your quartz countertops. In order to ensure the longevity of your quartz countertops, you must use a product specifically designed for quartz.

Disinfecting Your Bathroom with Bleach

Because your bathroom and kitchen are high-traffic areas, they can be a breeding ground for germs with your countertops being at the top of the list. It is important to clean and disinfect your countertops in these high traffic areas to keep bacteria  away.

Quartz countertops are non-porous, so they naturally repel germs and bacteria, but disinfecting occasionally is fine. However, stay away from using bleach, as it can discolor your countertops. A safer cleaning solution is always going to be a mild soap mixed with water, then wipe away with a dry microfiber towel or soft sponge.

Putting Too Much Weight on Them

Quartz is a solid stone countertop – just like granite and marble. However, there is such a thing as too much weight. So, be careful about sitting on them, as well as using heavy appliances that vibrate during use.

Staining is Possible

With quartz countertops being non-porous, they do not absorb liquids, meaning they are less likely to stain than stones such as marble or granite. However, it is possible for them to stain so you should try to clean up spills as quickly as possible, so the stains do not settle into your bathroom or kitchen countertops.

Getting Them Sealed

Marble and granite countertops need to be sealed regularly. Quartz countertops do not and doing so could ruin your kitchen or bathroom countertops. You must seal stone countertops because they are porous and when they are not sealed, they can absorb spills and germs. With quartz being non-porous, sealing is never needed.

Ask the Countertop Experts at C & C Stoneworks

Although quartz countertops are extremely durable, you must take care of them so they will last. Make sure you are properly cleaning and maintaining your quartz kitchen and bathroom countertops so they will last for years to come.

If you have questions about your quartz countertops or are looking to install new kitchen or bathroom countertops in your home, the professionals at C & C Stoneworks are here to help.

Our design center is a one stop shop for affordable stone countertops including granite, quartz, and marble. With over 20 years of experience in countertop fabrication, installation, and remodeling, your kitchen or bath is in good hands when you trust C & C Stoneworks.

Visit our design center today and let us help you put together ideas for your kitchen or bathroom. Our professional, friendly team is here to help. Come see us today!