MERCHANDISE

What to Expect When Getting New Countertops

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.

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

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

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!