http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/rss/feedsFabricators and installers of granite, marble, quartz and porcelain.Tue, 28 Apr 2026 08:27:25 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/from-raw-material-to-elegant-surfaces-the-creation-of-quartz-countertopshttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/from-raw-material-to-elegant-surfaces-the-creation-of-quartz-countertopsQuartz countertops have become increasingly popular in both residential and commercial spaces due to their durability and wide range of designs. Understanding how these countertops are made can help you appreciate the craftsmanship and technology that go into creating these beautiful and functional surfaces. Raw Material Gathering The process begins with the collection of raw materials. Quartz countertops are engineered stones, primarily composed of natural quartz, which is one of the hardest minerals found on Earth. Alongside quartz, other materials like pigments and resins are also gathered. These resins act as a binding agent, while pigments are used to give the countertops their diverse color range. Crushing and Blending The gathered quartz is then crushed into fine grains. This can vary from a coarse to a powdery consistency, depending on the desired finish of the countertop. After crushing, the quartz grains are mixed with the resin and pigments. The ratio is typically around 90% quartz to 10% resin and pigments. Molding and Pressing Once blended, the mixture is poured into a mold to create the shape of the countertop. The mold is then subjected to a process known as vibrocompression under vacuum. This technique involves vibrating and compressing the mixture under vacuum conditions, which helps in removing all the air and compacting the particles tightly together. Curing Process After vibrocompression, the slab is moved to a curing kiln, where it is heated to a specific temperature. This process helps the resin to bind the quartz particles together, creating a solid and non-porous surface. The curing time can vary, but it generally takes around 30 minutes. Polishing and Detailing Post-curing, the slabs are then gauged, calibrated, and polished to the desired finish. This can range from a glossy to a matte finish, depending on the customer's preference. Edges and corners are also shaped and smoothed during this stage. Quality Control Before being shipped, each quartz countertop undergoes a strict quality control process. This includes checking for the correct size, color consistency, and ensuring there are no defects in the surface. Transportation and Installation Finally, the finished quartz countertops are transported to showrooms, suppliers, or directly to the installation site. Installation is a critical step and is usually done by professionals to ensure that the countertops are perfectly fitted and securely installed. Conclusion Quartz countertops are a marvel of modern engineering, combining natural elements with advanced manufacturing processes to create durable, beautiful surfaces suitable for a variety of settings. Understanding the meticulous process behind their creation emphasizes their value and appeal. For expert advice on choosing and installing quartz countertops, consider reaching out to the professionals at Aphrodite Marble & Granite Co. by calling 609-693-4450. Our experience and expertise can help you navigate the wide range of options and find the perfect fit for your space.Sat, 02 Dec 2023 10:50:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/the-best-countertop-surfaces-to-minimize-germs-in-your-kitchenhttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/the-best-countertop-surfaces-to-minimize-germs-in-your-kitchen Medical News Today claims there are more than 200 viruses that contribute to colds. And scientists agree that the body’s ability to fight them is restrained during winter. This means you will have to remain proactive if you are to safeguard your family. The right countertop surface can help, and here are a few bacteria-resistant materials to consider. Quartz Quartz is a type of engineered stone held together by polymers and resin. The result is a solid, non-porous surface that leaves germs with nowhere to grow or hide. Quartz is also tough enough to resist cracking or chipping and will never require resealing. Even after years of regular use, your quartz counters will continue looking like new. Aside from being bacteria-resistant, this material is also easy to clean and disinfect. As such, you won’t have any trouble eliminating bacteria from your worktop. For everyday messes, a soft cloth and some hot, soapy water will do the trick. To sanitize, use white vinegar or your favorite non-abrasive, all-purpose cleaner. Granite Granite is a highly abundant rock that’s mined from the earth’s continental crust. When properly sealed, bacteria and germs are greatly confined. Plus, the sealant allows it to resist chips, nicks, and scratches. Granite is a great choice for families with children who like to help out in the kitchen. To remain non-porous, you’ll need to reseal your granite every two to four years. This will ensure your counter maintains a tight barrier that keeps out harmful bacteria. You should generally reseal whenever etch marks or water rings become visible, even if it’s been less than two years. Soapstone Soapstone provides an anti-bacterial surface without the need for sealers or glazes. That’s because soapstone is naturally very smooth and does not contain any pores. Accordingly, there’s no spot in your soapstone counter where bacteria could thrive and multiply. As an environmentally-friendly material, soapstone is easy to recycle once you are finished with it. Additionally, it is free from substances that could emit vapors and degrade indoor air quality. Which means it could improve your family’s health in other ways aside from just preventing colds. Agate Agate is a semi-precious, natural stone that’s found primarily in volcanic rock. After mining, agate is polished to ensure a very smooth surface. The result is that there are no cracks or crevices where germs can lurk. It’s true that agate naturally resists harmful organisms. Even so, you are free to use stronger disinfectant products if you like. With agate, sanitizing wipes or all-purpose cleaners won’t cause discoloration like it can with some other natural materials. Porcelain Most commonly used for sinks and bathtubs, porcelain has become more popular as a countertop material in recent years. Porcelain is formed from China clay, which also contains trace amounts of feldspar and silica. It’s forged in a kiln to produce an exceptionally durable material that withstands heavy usage. The final product may be either glazed or unglazed at the factory. Between the two, glazed porcelain is by far the more hygienic choice. When glaze is applied and then kiln fired, it creates a tight seal that bacteria simply cannot penetrate. Plus, the brilliant sheen of glazed porcelain provides a very upscale appearance as well. New Countertops: A Long-Term Investment that Pays Off Bacteria-resistant countertops provide solid protection year after year. At the same time, they offer amazing aesthetics that may even increase your home’s value. Are you ready to discover the benefits of a brand-new countertop? Then give us a call here at Aphrodite Marble and Granite to find out more.Fri, 03 Nov 2023 07:23:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/the-hard-facts-about-kitchen-countertop-seamshttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/the-hard-facts-about-kitchen-countertop-seamsAfter finding that perfect countertop slab, many people begin daydreaming about how it will look in their kitchen. Those visions typically do not involve a seam in the worktop, yet even very large slabs will often require one. You can’t always avoid a seam, but understanding the reasons for them can alleviate any anxiety you might have over them. Factors that Determine Seams Seams are sometimes necessary for a variety of reasons. For example, certain materials like marble and granite are very heavy. So, depending on the layout of your cabinets, your slabs could need to be cut into smaller pieces for better support. The layout of your home and/or kitchen matters too. If you don’t have a door big enough to carry a large slab through, you might need to cut it into sections instead. The same is true if your kitchen has obstacles such as an island or pantry that would make it difficult to maneuver an oversized counter. With natural stone, color variations can differ greatly within each slab. As such, we sometimes need to cut slabs into sections to maintain the integrity of the design. Truly, in certain instances, not cutting the stone would result in a less-pleasing aesthetic than having a seam would. A knowledgeable designer is the key to providing great visuals while at the same time keeping seams to a minimum. Minimizing the Appearance of Seams It’s true that countertops often require seams. Even so, there are some things you can do to reduce the number and appearance of them, such as: Locating the seam in an inconspicuous spot whenever possible. Providing a level surface on which to place the countertop. This will ensure that even slight variations in veining or grains are virtually unnoticeable. Reducing seams to only 1/16” or less, which is in keeping with industry best practices. Some projects will require countertops to be fabricated from more than one slab. With natural stone such as marble or granite, choose materials that were mined and cut as closely together as possible. This will allow you to match the unique patterns of your stone more evenly. Your countertop company should be able to advise you. There’s a Countertop Seam. Now What? Don’t fret if you discover a seam during the installation process. This gap will eventually be “filled in” with an epoxy compound. Not only will this hide the seam, but it will also provide a tight seal against moisture. And the epoxy will also bond the two sections together so that they essentially become one. Your installers will create an epoxy resin that carefully matches the color of your countertops. Once it’s applied, the material is then smoothed out so that it blends perfectly. After the resin has cured, others will not be able to tell where the original seam was. In fact, the only reason you might know is because you saw the opening for yourself. Hiding countertop seams is something of a fine art. Accordingly, the difference between a skilled and unskilled countertop company will be very apparent in the finished result. When choosing a contractor, ask for samples of their seam quality as well as their completed work. And find out about their experience with epoxy and the process used to create an exact match. The Right Company is Essential When it comes to countertop seams, the right company can make all the difference. Here at Aphrodite Marble and Granite, we carefully construct counters to minimize the impact of seams. Ensuring your worktops are attractive and durable is what we do best, so we invite you to contact us first if you are looking to upgrade.Tue, 03 Oct 2023 07:06:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/clean-your-entire-kitchen-with-these-ordinary-household-itemshttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/clean-your-entire-kitchen-with-these-ordinary-household-itemsAutumn is approaching, the air is getting crisper, and you suddenly have an urge to clean. A well-scrubbed kitchen can lift the spirits, but at the same time, getting started can often feel overwhelming. If you think you need to round up lots of cleaning supplies, you’ll be glad to know you can accomplish almost everything on your to-do list with only a few ordinary items. And best of all, you probably already have most of them on hand. White Distilled Vinegar A mixture of water and 5% white distilled vinegar makes a great all-purpose cleaner ideal for glass, sinks, light fixtures, and appliances. While it’s an effective cleaner all on its own, you can also give it a “boost” by adding a small amount of dish soap. Or include a few drops of an essential oil such as tea tree or oregano. This will give your kitchen a nice aroma with no chemical smell associated with commercial cleaners. White vinegar is naturally acidic, which makes it a great disinfectant. However, that doesn’t mean it is suitable for all countertops. Avoid using it on granite or marble. Instead, use a soft cloth, warm water, and mild detergent or dish soap. Baking Soda Baking soda cuts through grime and eliminates odors. As such, you can use it on nearly any surface that needs a light scrubbing. It’s great for cleaning sinks, faucets, or even heavy pots and pans. When combined with full-strength vinegar, it can even clear clogged drains. The odor-fighting properties in baking soda make it especially useful for kitchen cleaning. Place some inside your refrigerator or freezer (after cleaning with vinegar), and then wipe away. Then leave an open box inside the door so it can continue absorbing odors. Don’t forget to sprinkle some inside your trash can or recycling bins too. Mild Dish Soap Mild dish soap(particularly Dawn) has plenty of uses around the kitchen besides cleaning marble or granite countertops. A few other uses for it include: Washing down the insides and fronts of your cabinets Removing grease from your range hood and drip pans Combining with baking soda to make a paste for cleaning ovens Cleaning tile and backsplashes Lemon Juice and/or Citrus Peels Use mild dish soap to clean the outside of your cabinets thoroughly. Then give them an extra shine with a homemade polish containing 2 parts olive oil to 1 part lemon juice. The result will be similar to what you would achieve using a popular lemon-scented furniture polish without the waxy buildup. You may also apply this cleaner to crown molding, kitchen tables, or any other wooden surface. Citrus peels are also the perfect solution for smelly garbage disposals. Periodically run a few lemon, lime, or orange slices through your disposal and watch the odors magically dissipate. Clean copper pans by cutting a lemon in half and then dipping it into a coarse salt such as sea salt. The combination of lemon and salt will leave your pans sparkling clean without tearing up your hands in the process. Breathe New Life into Your Old Kitchen These tricks will ensure a clean, tidy kitchen. But they can’t bring a tired, worn-out countertop back to life. If yours has seen better days, it might be time for a replacement instead. Schedule a consultation with Aphrodite Marble and Granite to ensure you are ready for all that holiday cooking and baking just around the corner.Tue, 05 Sep 2023 10:34:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/crushing-the-5-most-common-myths-surrounding-quartz-countertopshttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/crushing-the-5-most-common-myths-surrounding-quartz-countertopsAccording to a 2022 survey, 42% of homeowners said they preferred engineered quartz for their next remodel. That number’s pretty high, but it might actually be much bigger if there weren’t so many myths surrounding quartz countertops. Maybe you too have thought of going with quartz and would like to know if these misconceptions are true. Here are some common myths about quartz countertops debunked. Myth #1: Quartzite and Quartz Are the Same Quartzite and quartz share similar properties but are two different materials. Quartzite is a metamorphic rock consisting almost entirely of the mineral quartz. Quartz countertops, on the other hand, are a type of engineered stone that does contain the mineral quartz, but in a lesser quantity than quartzite. The mineral silica binds quartzite slabs, while quartz ones are held together with polymers and resins. Myth #2: There Aren’t Many Variations to Choose From Since quartz countertops are manufactured, you’ll find there is quite a bit of variety. While mostly cream, white, gray, and tan patterns are popular, you can also find quartz available in other colors, such as blue, red, and green. Some quartz may even resemble limestone or other natural stone. Here at Aphrodite Marble and Granite, we have a wide selection and invite you to browse our inventory. If you’re looking for something in particular, please let us know so we can help you find that perfect slab. Myth #3: You Have to Reseal Them Often During manufacturing, quartz slabs are mixed with polymers and resins and then baked in an industrial oven until hardened. This permanently bonds the materials together and creates a protective seal. So unlike granite or marble, you will never need to reseal your quartz countertops. Myth #4: Quartz is Prone to Chipping and Cracking The quartz mineral has a rating of around 7 on the Mohs hardness scale. Since quartz countertops primarily contain this mineral, they are durable enough to resist chips, nicks, and dings. In fact, quartz is more scratch resistant than many other materials, including granite and soapstone. However, you should avoid using harsh or acidic cleaners, which can permanently etch the surface. Mild detergent and a soft cloth are all needed to take care of most spills. Myth #5: Quartz is Very Expensive Quartz isn’t the most inexpensive material, nor is it the costliest. It falls in the middle of the price range, making it a great value. And a quartz counter will last between 10 and 15 years on average. If you are looking for something attractive and durable but feel that high-end materials are not within your budget, quartz would be an excellent option. Finding the Right Quartz Countertop for Your Home Your kitchen countertops will see a lot of use, so it is important to have the facts. Here at Aphrodite Marble and Granite, we hope you’ll use this information to make the right decision for you and your family. Call us if you still have questions, or better yet, stop by our Forked River, New Jersey showroom to view samples for yourself.Mon, 10 Jul 2023 05:04:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/a-guide-for-finding-kitchen-countertops-that-match-your-lifestylehttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/a-guide-for-finding-kitchen-countertops-that-match-your-lifestyleIn a OnePoll survey of 2,000 adults, 33% of respondents claimed that cooking with their family was among their favorite childhood memories. But creating those memories requires the right kitchen countertop. That’s why it is so essential to match yours to your lifestyle. Here are some common, everyday challenges our customers often experience, along with their possible solutions. You Cook with Lots of Different Equipment Are you someone who enjoys trying out the latest cooking gadgets? If so, you’ll need a countertop that can withstand hot pans as well as lots of heavy equipment. Dolomite is a perfect choice because it is durable and doesn’t warp easily. And while you should always use trivets for hot dishes, you won’t have to worry too much if something accidentally comes into contact with the surface. An Environmental-Friendly Solution is a Must Thousands of tons of construction materials wind up in our nation’s landfills every year. Consider porcelain if you desire a beautiful countertop that will reduce your carbon footprint. It’s a natural material fired in a kiln and therefore does not need sealing. There are also no chemicals that will let off Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) inside your home. Plus, the material itself is easy to recycle when it has reached the end of its lifespan. You Want a Countertop that Will Age Well Soapstone would be a perfect choice if you want a countertop that will still look great after years of wear. Soapstone develops a natural patina as it ages and even dents and scratches tend to give it character. Oil regularly to help it develop the patina and maintain a brilliant shine. Then sit back and enjoy your surface as it becomes even more beautiful over time. Elegance and Style are your Top Considerations Your kitchen is the centerpiece of your home, and nothing gives it a more trendy, elegant look than marble or granite. Long associated with high-end kitchens, marble and granite are highly sought-after materials with a timeless, classic appeal. And since they attract a wide range of people, you may even get a better offer for your property whenever it’s time to sell. You Are Designing an Outdoor Kitchen Limestone is used in buildings worldwide, so it makes sense that it’s an excellent choice for outdoor kitchens. As a natural stone, it accentuates your landscaping and gives your outdoor kitchen an elegant look. At the same time, it offers rugged durability against harsh weather and fluctuating temperatures. Limestone resists heat and will not warp or buckle in direct sunlight. It’s also less likely to fade or streak after constant exposure to UV rays. Finding a Low-Maintenance Solution is your #1 Priority In busy households, countertops tend to undergo almost constant use. So it’s important to find a surface that’s easy to clean and won’t require a great deal of upkeep. Quartz fits that bill nicely because it’s non-porous and never needs resealing. Should you forget to clean up a spill, quartz is very forgiving. Plus, some slabs look like marble or granite, but require less fuss. Providing Selections that Will Fit Your Lifestyle Lifestyle is a major factor when choosing a worktop; however, there are many other considerations. Consequently, the best way to find the right countertop is to view samples and talk with someone who knows the materials inside and out. Here at Aphrodite Marble and Granite, we invite you to stop by our showroom and discover which one is right for you.Thu, 01 Jun 2023 13:19:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/6-kitchen-renovation-tips-to-make-your-project-go-smoothlyhttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/6-kitchen-renovation-tips-to-make-your-project-go-smoothlyAccording to a 2022 U.S. Houzz and Home Study, 28% of all homeowners choose the kitchen for their renovation project. But the kitchen is more than just the most frequently-remodeled space; it also receives more use than any other room. Kitchen improvements, therefore, require more careful planning, and here are some tips to ensure no detail is overlooked. #1. Design Around Your Existing Structure Many people opt for a kitchen remodel because they are unhappy with the layout or design of their current space. But while functionality is important, making too many changes will drastically increase the cost and scope of your project. Plumbing and electrical lines are already established and are incredibly challenging to move. Accordingly, it would help if your design minimizes these changes. Rather than gutting everything, look for ways to take what you already have and revamp it to better suit your lifestyle. Some upgrades to consider include: Pullout racks between cabinets to maximize storage A moveable kitchen island to add more workspace Countertop extensions that fold up or down on an as-needed basis Hidden USB ports or charging stations inside drawers A seating area that would double as a home office, craft station, etc. #2. Prioritize Features Consider what you hope to accomplish with a new kitchen upgrade. Are you looking for more storage, easier cleanup, or improved workflow? List your most important goals and then prioritize the features that will best help you achieve them. For example, focus more on new countertops or a kitchen island to streamline meal preparation rather than lighting. #3. Consider Aesthetics You probably spend more time in the kitchen than in any other room of your home. This means your renovated space should be just as attractive as it is practical. So in addition to creating a focal point, you should also select features that flow seamlessly yet provide pleasing aesthetics all on their own. Visual appeal becomes even more important when mixing and matching cabinets and/or countertops. It’s hard to picture what different materials, colors, or edges will look like once they are in place. But after a trip to our showroom, you can better decide what will work best for you and what won’t. Your planning isn’t complete without a visit to our location, so stop by and see us today. #4. Consider Future Upgrades Kitchen trends come and go and so do lifestyle changes. As such, this may not be the last kitchen renovation you take on. Keep that thought in mind when choosing a design that fills up every square inch with something. Consider whether you might someday want to add a new freezer, wall oven, or larger refrigerator and leave room for expansion. #5. Plan for Temporary Meal Prep Even a minor kitchen overhaul can temporarily restrict your usage of it. Consequently, you’ll need to consider how and where you will prepare meals during the renovation process. It doesn’t have to be elaborate- a leftover base cabinet tucked into a hallway or corner can provide enough space for a hotplate or microwave. And temporary, peel-and-stick hooks will allow space to hang essential items for just a little while. #6. Speak with Knowledgeable Professionals Beforehand There’s no substitute for the knowledge you’ll gain from speaking with a professional. That’s especially true when discussing what is probably one of the biggest components of your renovation-kitchen countertops. Here at Aphrodite Marble and Granite, we are knowledgeable, professional, and eager to help you make the right choice. Come by our showroom or use our online estimate form to learn more.Wed, 03 May 2023 10:49:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/choose-the-right-countertop-installer-with-this-handy-guidehttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/choose-the-right-countertop-installer-with-this-handy-guideFamily Handyman claims that marble countertops will last an average of 20 years, but you’ll only get between 10 and 20 years from laminate worktops. While quality materials are certainly a factor, choosing the right contractor will also ensure you are able to enjoy your new worktops for longer. With that in mind, how do you choose the right countertop company? Here’s a checklist that will help you make the right decision. Choose an Established Company When it comes to kitchen counter installation, you may think there is little difference from one type to the next. But ask anyone who has ever installed countertops and they will tell you that is definitely not the case. Accordingly, whether you choose a well-established contractor rather than a startup matters. Look for someone who has experience with a variety of materials as well as a significant amount of time in the trade. One way to determine how established (and reputable) a company is would be to read its reviews. In fact, reviews can give you clues about the level of customer service you’re likely to benefit from. Check Out Their Inventory Kitchen work surfaces come in a variety of materials these days. There is dolomite, limestone, soapstone, and more along with the ever-popular marble, quartz, and granite. And each of these choices comes with its own advantages and disadvantages. A quality contractor will have a good selection of countertop materials available for you to look at and can tell you the advantages and disadvantages of each. That way, you can be sure you are making the right choice. Keep looking if a company has a limited selection or basic knowledge base. Ask About the Process Great workmanship and exceptional service won’t mean much unless you are also happy with the installation. As such, you should ask some questions to learn how comfortable you might be with the process. Some good ones include: How long will installation take? Will I be able to use my new counter immediately? Why or why not? Can you talk me through the installation process step by step? Will you haul off my old countertop and/or debris? After walking you through the process, your contractor should also be able to answer questions about cleaning, sealing, or maintaining your new surface. So be sure you are also satisfied with how that person answers those queries. Choose Someone Who Is Responsive You may have other questions in addition to those listed above. Or you may think of new ones after your initial consultation. If so, note how long it takes the contractor to get back to you. Stay away from companies that take forever to answer their emails or never seem to have anyone available to answer the phone. Businesses that care about their customers will provide good communication regardless of how swamped they are. And they won’t stop talking to you just because the job is finished. Think about it-if a contractor won’t connect with you before doing the work, how likely are you to get a response afterwards in the event something goes wrong? We Check All the Boxes Here at Aphrodite Marble & Granite, we possess the knowledge, inventory, and experience that’s needed to provide you with quality kitchen counters. Furthermore, we also carry a wide selection of inventory available in our Forked River, NJ showroom. We’ll work with you to make your project a success and invite you to contact us today to schedule a consultation.Sun, 02 Apr 2023 15:27:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/why-dolomite-makes-an-excellent-countertop-choicehttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/why-dolomite-makes-an-excellent-countertop-choiceAccording to Britannica online, dolomite rock (along with aragonite and calcite) makes up around two percent of the earth’s crust. And a mountain range in Italy known as the Dolomites is among the largest exposures of dolomite rock on earth. This stone has a number of uses, and one of the most popular ones involves kitchen countertops. Could this be a good alternative for your kitchen? Here is some information that will help you decide. What is Dolomite? A sedimentary rock, dolomite is a type of limestone that primarily consists of the mineral dolomite. Accordingly, it is often referred to as dolostone or dolomite rock to distinguish it from the mineral of the same name. It is typically gray or off-white but can contain hints of other colors, such as pink, green, brown, or yellow. Dolostone is so closely related to limestone that it is often difficult to distinguish the two. Even so, dolomite rock ranks slightly higher on the Mohs hardness scale and is somewhat less soluble when exposed to acid. It’s, therefore, ideal for a number of construction applications, including concrete aggregate, refractory bricks, and kitchen countertops. Dolomite Counter Benefits Dolostone sits somewhere between granite and marble on the hardness scale. Accordingly, it is a durable material that will resist knicks and scratches. With proper care, your dolomite worktop could easily last for decades. Dolomite rock is also very heat resistant. While you should never sit hot pans directly on top of any surface, dolomite counters (when properly protected) are unlikely to crack or bubble. Dolostone is extremely pressure resistant and can therefore withstand a variety of weights. Accordingly, you can use various-sized kitchen appliances or even heavy pots and pans without fear of breaking. This material is very similar in appearance to marble. At the same time, it’s typically more affordable than marble. So dolomite rock can make your kitchen appear more luxurious while also helping you stay within your budget. Dolostone Uses Since it is heat and pressure-resistant, dolomite rock can be used in a number of applications aside from kitchen countertops. A few other ways in which you could use dolomite include: Backsplashes Bathroom or utility room counters Home offices Kitchen bars and/or seating areas Dolomite rock looks great on its own but can also be paired with wood, granite, or quartzite to give your kitchen a custom look. So if you are into mixing and matching countertop materials, consider dolostone as one of your possible choices. Disadvantages of Dolomite Rock Dolomite rock is very porous, so it will need to be sealed before use. However, once it is sealed, it becomes resistant to stains and bacteria. As with marble, your dolomite countertop will likely need to be occasionally resealed. With dolostone, there’s less variety when it comes to color choices. While some variation is possible, most slabs consist of a gray-and-white color combination. Fortunately, gray and white counters are trendy right now, so a new dolomite counter will certainly give your kitchen a more updated look. Harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning products should never be used on dolomite worktops, as they can easily scratch or discolor the surface. This includes natural cleaners containing vinegar or baking soda. Is a Dolomite Countertop Right for You? The best way to determine if dolomite is best is to visit our Forked River, NJ showroom. There you can see samples of dolomite and other materials and compare them for yourself. Of course, you can always browse through our live inventory or use our easy contact form to receive a custom quote. Either way, we look forward to serving you. Wed, 08 Mar 2023 07:01:00 -0700http://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/what-to-consider-when-shopping-for-kitchen-countertopshttp://www.aphroditemarbleandgranite.com/blog/post/what-to-consider-when-shopping-for-kitchen-countertops Aside from your cabinets, your countertops are what people will notice most about your kitchen. Even so, counters do more than just add style, as they must be functional and durable. Choosing precisely the right worktops is very important, so we have listed some factors that will help guide you in your decision. Material You may have other uses for your counters aside from preparing meals. For example, you may use them for crafts or for working from home. Accordingly, you will want a material that will stand up to your versatile lifestyle. Consider the various materials and their pros and cons to find one that will work best for you. A few that are popular among our New Jersey clients include: Marble, a timeless classic that is always in style but requires resealing every few years Granite, a low-maintenance stone that resists bacteria yet often feels cold to the touch Quartz, a hardy material that resists chips and cracks but is also heavier than many other options Color The right shade of countertop is essential to your overall kitchen design. Do you have a particular color scheme in mind or are you looking for neutral hues? Getting the color right is almost as important as choosing the perfect material. Remember that just because you go with a stone such as granite, marble, or quartz does not mean you are limited in your color choices. Natural stone is available in numerous pigmentations, and you’ll find slabs with visible veins and other features too. So the best way to determine which shade is right is to view several of them in person. Drop by our showroom to see a few pieces and find one you will fall in love with. Will You Mix and Match? Will you have only one countertop throughout your kitchen, or will you mix things up a bit? As a previous blog post mentioned, mixing and matching kitchen counters remains popular, even though the trend toward excessive combinations is largely over. If this is something you want, you’ll need to pick out two different worktops and then decide where you would like to place each. Budget How much you have to spend on a work surface will play a major role in your decision. You may be tempted to purchase low-quality countertops in order to save money, but remember this is something you will use almost constantly. So it is worth spending a few extra dollars to get something that you are truly satisfied with. When it comes to kitchen counters, you get what you pay for. Accordingly, we do not recommend using an inferior material just to save a few dollars. You’ll probably regret your choice, and will likely need to replace them sooner as well. Instead, focus on getting the best possible value for your money. Once you begin using your new worktops, you will be glad you didn’t cut corners in this area. Knowledgeable, Experienced Contractor Installing a kitchen counter is not something you should attempt yourself. As such, choosing the right contractor is just as important as material, color, price, or any other aspect. A reputable company will provide quality materials, professional installation, and exceptional service to boot. Here at Aphrodite Marble & Granite, we’re proud of our selection and service to those in the Burlington, Monmouth, Ocean, and Atlantic County areas. Drop by our Forked River showroom to view our selection, or use our easy online contact form to schedule a quote.Mon, 06 Mar 2023 06:29:00 -0700