Friday, December 30, 2011

Caring for a Granite Countertop is Easy

One of the reasons families in Minnetonka MN elect to install granite countertops over other types of counters is the ease of caring for granite.

Granite Countertops Minnetonka MN


Granite countertops are incredibly tough to stain. They're also not susceptible to heat damage, nor can they be scratched easily. As far as cleaning your granite countertop, a soft white cloth with some water will do the trick.

Have questions about your granite countertop, or issues that require professional treatment? Give us a call at 952-746-4690.

Thursday, December 29, 2011

Granite Means Unique

One of the draws to adding a granite countertop to your Chaska MN home is the fact that no two granite countertops are alike. No pattern is the same, and you can choose from a variety of colors and edge profiles to put your fingerprint on the countertop even more.


Chaska MN Granite Countertops


Universal Stone has installed hundreds of countertops, and has helped a number of Chaska MN families pick out and install the countertop of their dreams. Homeowners love the look and durability of a granite countertop, and the feeling that the countertop in their home has no equal anywhere else in the world.

Call Universal Stone at 952-746-4690, or click here to request a free quote. We'll help you find that perfect granite countertop for your home.

Why Granite Counter Tops?

Residents of Plymouth MN might be asking themselves: why a granite counter top? What are the advantages of using this type of stone over others? And who can I trust to perform a quality granite counter top installation in Plymouth? Simple -- Universal Stone.

Plymouth MN Granite Counter Tops

Universal Stone has installed hundreds of kitchen counter tops in Plymouth, as well as other cities and towns in the Twin Cities region of Minnesota. Many of our customers choose granite due to its affordability, as well as its durability. Granite counter tops can take a lot of punishment, and can last for decades. We can install the granite counter top of your choice, and do so with the quality and precision you'd expect from a professional contractor.

If you're in the Plymouth MN area, or are located anywhere else in the Twin Cities metro, give Universal Stone a call at 952-746-4690.

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

A Few Customer Testimonials

With 2011 coming to a close, and with an eye toward next year, we'd like to share some of the testimonials customers have given about Universal Stone. We hope that you'll choose us to guide you through selecting and installing a stone countertop in 2012. Thank you!


"I want to thank you and Universal Stone for the outstanding granite countertops you installed in our kitchen. The quality of the stone is exceptional, the craftsmanship and fit is perfect and the appearance of the stone in our kitchen is exactly what we were looking for. The compliments we've had from guests in our home have been endless.Susan and I were very pleased with the customer service of Universal Stone and we would not hesitate in recommending you to our friends and co-workers."
--Tim Blotz, Fox 9 News Weekend Anchor


"Thank you and all the others in and associated with Universal Stone Inc. for you work, materials and service.  You really make this process easy for the homeowner, especially with the ability to refer out plumber, tiles, etc.  The option of "one-stop shopping" is very convenient.  It's been my pleasure working with you and others."
--Judge Tony N. Leung, Hennipin County District Court



"Thank you for all your wonderful work. I had a woman call from Edina and I gave an excellent referral. Would be happy to refer again. Take care."
--Rose Barkley, Realtor at Lake Area Realty

Friday, December 16, 2011

Stone Countertop Protection Tips


Always use a coaster when placing a glass, mug or cup on your stone countertop -- especially when the liquid inside is alcoholic or citrus.


Blot any spills on your countertop with a paper towel. Don't scrub the spill, as this causes it to spread even more. There are some liquids that can permanently stain your countertop if they seep into the pores of the stone, depending on which type of stone you use.


Do not, under any circumstances, use a bathroom cleaner or any other type of cleaner that contains acid on your stone countertop. These types of cleaners can change the stone's look and complexion, damaging it in the process.

Find more stone countertop care tips at the Universal Stone website. If you want to request a free quote, fill out this form or call 952-746-4690.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Countertop Edge Profiles

You probably know that you can have a few different stone types used for your new countertop, such as granite, marble or quartz. But did you know that each of these countertops can be finished with a certain edge profile? You aren't stuck with a simple block slab of granite for a counter -- instead, you can bevel the countertop's edge, select an ogee finish, shape the edge with a waterfall finish, and many more. The image below shows you some of the finishes that can be applied to your new countertop.



Which of these edge profiles would you use on your counter?

If you're interested in requesting a free quote from Universal Stone, click here or give us a call at 952-746-4690.

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Choosing the Stone for Your Countertop


When choosing to go with a stone countertop in your home, you not only have several stone types to choose from, but you also have different pros and cons for each type of stone. You can use these pros and cons to choose a stone type for your counter if you know what the counter will primarily be used for.


Granite is scratch resistant, bacteria resistant, heat resistant, burn resistant and is 100% natural. As far as staining goes, granite is pretty stain resistant, but it isn't 100%.

Marble is burn resistant and is 100% natural -- unfortunately, it falls short in several other categories. It's not scratch, stain, bacteria or heat resistant, which means you'll have to be more careful about how you treat your marble countertop.

Soapstone is not scratch resistant, but it can offer every other protection, including being stain resistant, bacteria resistant, heat resistant and burn resistant. As long as you're careful not to scratch your soapstone countertop, it should last you for years to come.

Need a granite countertop installation performed? Perhaps you prefer a different stone type for your counter? Contact Universal Stone today and request a free quote.

Monday, November 28, 2011

Adding Value to Your Home With a Granite Countertop


A major upgrade trend in home remodeling is the installation of granite kitchen countertops. These countertops are incredibly durable and last a very long time. In fact, the likelyhood of your granite countertop in your lifetime or even your child's lifetime is slim, at best.

Granite kitchen countertops used to be a sign of wealth in a home, but granite countertop installations are now available for many different types of budgets. Installing granite has really taken off in the last few years thanks to reality TV cooking shows set in high-end kitchens. When looking at new homes, buyers often view the existence of granite countertops as a big plus when decided whether or not to buy, which is why installing these types of countertops is such a good idea. They provide a return on their investment, whether you live in your home for the rest of your life, or if you decide to sell and move elsewhere.

Universal Stone is a company that specializes in the installation of granite kitchen countertops.
Take a look at some of the testimonials Universal has received from satisfied customers, and get in touch if you're interested in installing granite countertops in your own home.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Cleaning a Granite Countertop


Granite countertops were once a feature found in expensive homes owned by the affluent. In recent times, however, the price of granite countertops have come down and there is a type of granite coutnertop for any budget.

One of the most popular reasons for going with a granite countertop is its natural beauty. In order to keep your countertop looking good, though, you'll need to keep it clean. Cleaning a granite countertop is extremely simple and, with the right tools, can be done in a few steps.

First, you'll need a bottle of Windex and a soft white cloth. With the Windex bottle eight inches away from the granite countertop surface, spray some Windex onto the surface. Using the soft white cloth, wipe the granite countertop down until it looks clean.

You can also use vinegar in place of Windex if you'd like to clean more quickly and you don't mind your countertop smelling like vinegar.

A daily cleaning of your granite countertop isn't necessary. If you see spots or stains, though, it is usually a good idea to get them cleaned up as soon as possible.

Monday, November 14, 2011

Granite Countertop Colors



Granite countertops are made from 100% natural granite. Because of its natural origin, you might think that granite only has a select few colors you can choose from. That, however, is far from the case.

Granite comes from many different locations in the world, each with its own unique granite color characteristics. This opens up a multitude of possibilities in terms of colors and natural design patterns. African Red Granite, for example, is mostly red with black, white and gray specs mixed in throughout the stone. Blue Perola Granite mixes black, gray and a green/yellow color into a wavy pattern, of sorts. Seaweed Green Granite mixes several shades of green into a pattern that very much resembles a seaweed-covered sea bottom. The colors go on and on and reach into the hundreds.

If you're interested in learning more about our granite color selection and how much it would cost to get a granite countertop installed in your home, contact us via our Quote Request page.

Monday, November 7, 2011

Granite Countertop Durability


When installing a granite countertop in your home, you know you're getting one of the most durable countertop surfaces there are. In terms of kitchen countertops, granite is one of the hardest surfaces that can be used, and its tough characteristics make it one of the most popular choices for new home owners or those replacing their kitchen counters.

Granite countertops can stand up to a number of different challenges, such as heat from pots and pans, sharp objects, or stains. Granite is also bacteria resistant. Selecting granite as your countertop of choice means you're investing in a countertop that will last for several lifetimes. You can learn more about installing a granite countertop in your home by visiting our website.

Monday, October 17, 2011

Taking Care of Your Granite Countertops


While granite counters are strong and durable, there are a number of things you can do to take care of them. So, to maintain your granite countertops beauty and to ensure it lives a long life, experts recommend you do the following:

Avoid Large Weights on the Edges
You don’t want to damage your counters. And one of the best ways granite counter pros say you can prevent damage is to not putting any unnecessary weight on the edges. The added weight can cause extra pressure and damage, which may take away from its attractiveness.

Use a Sealant
Once they’ve been installed, it’s recommended you apply a sealant to the counters. This will add an extra layer of defense to the counters, and while it doesn’t mean you’ll be protected from stains, you’ll have a little extra time to clean up a spill before they become stained

Clean Up Spills Stat
While they are resistant, granite counters can fall victim to liquids with a high level of acidity. Orange juice, soda and alcohol can all damage your counters if not cleaned up immediately. If you do spill something, take a cloth or paper towel to soak up the spill, followed up with a damp rag to remove sticky residue. 

Monday, October 3, 2011

"The Most Interesting Article You Will Ever Read About Granite"

We love reading articles about granite, since we fabricate and install granite countertops. So, when we see an article called "The Most Interesting Article You Will Ever Read About Granite," we have to give it a look. Without further ado, here's blogcritics' "The Most Interesting Article You Will Ever Read About Granite":
A type of rock forged from magma, granite has been used in construction for over 4,000 years. The ancient Egyptians used granite in their pyramids, and the Easter Island Moai head statues and many Hindu temples in India were built with granite also, mostly because of its resistance to erosion and durable structure. It’s no surprise that some of these pyramids and temples have survived to this day. What is surprising is that these structures were built in the first place, considering how heavy some of the pieces are. Below are a few of these constructions that have made it through the years and continue to confound researchers. 
You can read the entire article at BlogCritics.org. You can also check out Universal Stone at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com for all your granite countertops needs.

Monday, August 22, 2011

Soapstone Fireplace


Soapstone’s structure makes it a great choice for fireplace and fireplace surrounds.



(From Warm Stone)

Universal Stone knows Plymouth MN soapstone fireplace surrounds. Contact us today at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, August 15, 2011

What Is Soapstone?


Soapstone is a rock, metamorphic in nature, which has varying degrees of hardness. Soap stone is composed mainly of talc, magnesium silicate and chlorite.

Interesting facts about soapstone:
  • Soapstone, in old days, was used for bed and foot warmers in cars and sleighs
  • When wet, it isn't slippery
  • Soapstone is naturally non-stick
  • It was carved into scarabs and seals by Egyptians
  • The Finnish crafted amulets and images of Gods from it

When looking for a Plymouth MN soapstone company, consider Universal Stone by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, August 8, 2011

Soapstone Countertops


Soapstone countertops look elegant and offer luxury. Here are some of our favorite pictures of soapstone counters:




Universal Stone is a Plymouth MN soapstone countertops company that can be found online at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, August 1, 2011

Soapstone FAQs


Here are some of the questions we get asked about soapstone:

Do I need to seal my soapstone counters?
Soapstone is very dense and non-porous, and most sealers are meant to be used on porous stones. Therefore, it does not to be sealed.

How do I clean my soap stone countertops?
A mild soap and water mixture is recommended to clean your counters. Since this type of natural stone isn’t porous, it’s resistant to germs and bacteria, and is a naturally clean surface. Ammonia-based cleaners can be used on soapstone, unlike on granite and marble counters.

Where is soapstone found?
Soapstone is found in small deposits from small rocks to seams and boulders. Significant deposits are located in the Appalachian range from Maine to Georgia, with much of it in Vermont and Virginia. Deposits can be found also in Finland and Brazil.

Looking for a Plymouth MN soapstone counters company? Contact Universal Stone by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 25, 2011

Cleaning Granite Counters

You’ll find that granite counters are easy to clean, and require little maintenance. Still, you need to take regular care to ensure your granite countertops don’t become damaged or stained. Here’s what the Universal Stone staff tells clients who want to make sure their countertops always retain their luster.

1. Use a microfiber cloth to wipe down the surface.
2. Wipe the counter using water. This should be done on a daily or as needed basis.
3. On a weekly basis, wipe the counters down with a damp cloth and a stone cleaner. Never use harsh or abrasive chemicals or cleaners.
4. To clean oily stains, use a mixture of flour or baking soda and dish soap. Add water and place it directly on the stain. Let it sit overnight.

Having problems cleaning your granite counter? MN granite counters experts Universal Stone can help. Contact us by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 18, 2011

Granite Counters Benefits

Granite counters are appealing because they present many benefits that other natural stone countertops lack. Universal Stone customers like granite countertops for many reasons, including:
  • Uniqueness. Like snowflakes, each and every granite countertop is not like any other.
  • Long lasting beauty. You’ll still be in awe of these counters in five years time. They will last you a lifetime and more.  
  • Always there. Natural stones like granite always is readily available.
  • Easy to coordinate. You can match the counters with a variety of sink finishes, including ceramic, copper, onyx, marble and more.
  • Durable. It’s hard to cut or chip granite, and hot items won’t leave burn or char marks.

We are MN granite counters professionals. Learn more about our services at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 11, 2011

More Granite Counters FAQ

Universal Stone gets a lot of questions about granite counters:

How do I know if my granite countertops need resealed?
You can sprinkle some water and see if it soaks into the stone instead of beading up. If the water doesn’t wipe away, then it’s time to get them resealed.

What’s the best way to know if my old cabinets can support a new granite counter?
Natural stone counters can weigh as much as 30 lbs. per square foot. Your contractor will need to make sure your cabinets are able to handle the weight.

What is flamed granite?
Granite can be flamed by applying high heat to the stone’s surface. This process melts the surface and crystals to shatter, leaving a textured surface perfect for paving or wet areas.

What is honed granite?
Honed granite is when polishing process is stopped before a shiny surface is present. It gives the stone a softer appearance.

How do I know my granite is high quality?
It should not show a pattern in areas not polished. The polished areas should be uniform without flake textures.

Universal Stone is comprised of expert MN granite counters contractors. Find out more about our services at www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, July 4, 2011

Granite Counters FAQ

The Universal Stone staff gets a lot of questions about granite counters. Here are some of the most common:

Where does granite come from?
All over the world, and countries like Brazil and India are where it can be found most commonly. It takes millions of years for granite to form under the Earth’s surface.

Are granite countertops high maintenance?
Depending on the color of your stone, they need to be sealed once or twice a year. The process is much easier than polishing furniture. All you have to do is spray the surface and wipe it.

Can my granite counter be damaged?
Yes, by blows of great impact and sharp objects. Sealing your counters will protect them from staining.

What’s a seam?
It’s the portion where two pieces of stone are connected. To fill in the space, an epoxy mixture is used that matches/blends with the color of the stones. This seam is made to flow with the stone, and is seen minimally.

Are there different classes of granite?
Yes. Granite is a natural stone that comes from all over the world, and as such, it can be found in many variations. There are several aspects that can affect the class or price, with the more rare granite being from a higher class.

MN granite counters contractor Universal Stone can help you with your natural stone needs. Contact us today by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, June 27, 2011

Minnesota Granite Countertops Customer Testimonial

Here’s what one client has to say about our Minnesota granite countertops:
I recently hired Universal Stone to fabricate and install three granite vanity tops in my home.  I was extremely satisfied with the professional service, installation of my vanity tops.  The employees at Universal Stone were very helpful and patient while I was choosing my granite.  I took several weeks to make my final decision on the granite, and I felt Universal Stone was very understanding during the process.  The installers of the vanity tops arrived at my home promptly the morning of installation.  They were very polite and professional.  The installation went smoothly and the left my home clean and neat. Before the installers left, they took the time to show me how to apply a sealer on my granite in the future. The fabrication of the vanity tops looks great.  I picked the standard edge with under-mount sinks and it turned out very nice.  I am happy with the vanity tops from Universal Stone.  I would use them again in the future and would also recommend their services to others.

Maricarol Johnson

Chaska, MN
 Universal Stone would love to put your testimonial on www.UniversalStone-Inc.com. Contact us today for everything related to MN granite countertops

Monday, June 20, 2011

Maple Grove Granite Countertops Edge Profiles

 The edge profile you choose can increase the cost of your Maple Grove granite countertops, since some profiles cost more to fabricate. Granite countertops are offered in six different profile types, and each fits a different design style.

Eased
Eased profiles are the standard include in most companies base pricing. It’s like the most traditional countertop style, and works with any counter or kitchen island.

¼” Bevel
It’s like the eased profile, but more rectangular instead of rounded. A great fit for countertops that extend into the dining area.

Bullnose
The half bullnose is a great wall countertop with a rounded corner that’s great for those located near doors and entrances. The demi bullnose has one rounded corner, and the full bullnose has one rounded edge.

Hollywood
This profile type has a slanted edge and is great for smaller areas.

Chiseled
The chiseled profile offers a unique edge that can bring a different style to your kitchen or bathroom.

Ogee
The small ogee has a slight curvature, while the large ogee looks like a shoe when viewed from above.

Not sure what edge profile to go with for your Maple Grove MN granite countertops? Contact Universal Stone by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, June 13, 2011

Maple Grove Granite Countertop Colors

One of the biggest boons to installing Maple Grove granite countertops is you are given a wealth of colors to choose. Having granite countertops installed is one of the biggest interior design decisions you will make, so you’ll want to make sure whatever you choose works well with the room. When picking out your colors, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself.

What colors complement?
You can mix and match different colors when it comes to your Maple Grove granite countertop, but the wrong pairing could result in design gone wrong. Make sure your selections mesh well, and don’t strain the eyes. The right combinations will make cooking easier, but the wrong ones will make time in the kitchen much harder.

Which have complementary patterns?
If you choose a slab with a pattern, it can make you a fan of a color you might not have liked. The pattern can help complement a room as much as the color. For example, elaborate patterns go well with dark slabs, and provide a much more beautiful décor.

Which complement the rest of the area?
While you want your countertops to get noticed, you don’t want them to stick out like a sore thumb. Choosing colors that go with each other, but not with the rest of the room, you’ll probably ruin the room’s design. If you need assistance with complementing colors, do a little bit of research or talk to an interior designer.

Which best serve the room’s use?
Colors invoke different moods and feelings, and the more you know about this, the better the design of any room. Lightly colored granite makes your kitchen look bigger, while brown is a warm color that works great for living rooms but not for kitchen. Don’t pick the colors based just on aesthetics, but how they best serve the room’s function.

If you need help with Maple Grove MN granite countertops colors, get in touch with Universal Stone by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com

Monday, June 6, 2011

Maple Grove Granite Countertop Tips

Replacing your drab kitchen countertops with luxurious Maple Grove granite countertops can add elegance and style to your kitchen, but the process can be time consuming. Once you see your new granite countertops, however, you’ll realize it was worth all the effort. You’ll have to think about more than layout: you’ll need to know what color you want your countertops to be, what kind of backsplash they should have and whether you’ll want to invest in them.

Colors
Granite countertops come in more than just gray. Ask your Maple Grove granite countertop fabricator about the different colors from which you can choose, as there’s a wide palette available. Pick a color that fits the style and atmosphere you’re trying to convey. Your countertops will be the most dominant feature, so be careful in selecting a color.

Every color has differences in patterns and in the overall look, so don’t rule out an option based on the color alone. Ask the fabricator if it would be possible to take home a sample piece, so you can see how it would look. The results may have you thinking twice.

Backsplashes
The right kitchen backsplash highlight your new counters, but the wrong selection can have visitors being distracted from their natural luster. There are three perfect choices if you’re thinking about backsplashes:

Tile
Ceramic, slate and mosaic tiles are the most popular choices for backsplashes. They meld well with granite because they provide water resistance. When selecting a tile, you should pick one that contains some of the granite’s more subtle colors, as well as a grout color that goes well with the counters’ undertones.

Natural Stone
If you want granite on granite, go for it. There is nothing wrong with using the same thing twice, or to choose something else that coordinates. The latter option will break up the space to create visual interest. Or, consider limestone and marble. Try different things when selecting your style.

Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a modern and sleeker option, and is a fine choice for those who want a contemporary style. This works great with colors like black, white and tan, and can applied as a sheet or individual tiles.

Cost
How much granite countertops cost can detract some from buying them. They are a bit pricier than other countertops, due to a variety of reasons that include they cannot be manufactured, and they must be polished and sealed from outside elements. These countertops are durable and will in the long run pay for themselves. Shop around and get a free granite countertops estimate from each fabricator, so even if you decide to temporarily hold off, you’ll have at least firm prices.

Monday, May 23, 2011

Universal Stone Customer Testimonials


Here’s what Renee Olsten of Mound MN had to say about the granite countertops the staff of Universal Stone installed for her:
Thank you, Thank you! You and your entire staff are terrific. I love the granite counters and I also appreciate all your care and advice. Job well done. Corey - Hats off to you! Thanks for your referral to Jamie. I met and enjoyed working with him. Most of all for getting the island in and finishing everything so well.
We’d love to have your testimonial on our site. Reach Universal Stone at 952.746.4690 or visit www.UniversalStone-Inc.com to request a free natural stone quote.

Monday, May 16, 2011

Be Sure to See Universal Stone’s Commercial Gallery!


The staff at Universal Stone loves doing commercial projects, as evidenced by our natural stone commercial gallery. When it comes to installing marble countertops, granite sinks or soapstone fabrication, we have the capabilities and knowledge to make your office or business gain an aesthetic edge.

We’d be honored to show you what we can do for your office or business. Contact Universal Stone at 952.746.4690 or visit www.UniversalStone-Inc.com to request a free natural stone quote.

Monday, May 9, 2011

Universal Stone Customer Testimonials


Here’s what Maricarol Johnson of Chaska MN had to say about the granite countertops the staff of Universal Stone installed for her:
I recently hired Universal Stone to fabricate and install three granite vanity tops in my home. I was extremely satisfied with the professional service, installation of my vanity tops. The employees at Universal Stone were very helpful and patient while I was choosing my granite. I took several weeks to make my final decision on the granite, and I felt Universal Stone was very understanding during the process. The installers of the vanity tops arrived at my home promptly the morning of installation. They were very polite and professional. The installation went smoothly and the left my home clean and neat. Before the installers left, they took the time to show me how to apply a sealer on my granite in the future. The fabrication of the vanity tops looks great. I picked the standard edge with under-mount sinks and it turned out very nice. I am happy with the vanity tops from Universal Stone. I would use them again in the future and would also recommend their services to others.

We’d love to have your testimonial on our site. Get in touch with Universal Stone at 952.746.4690 or visit www.UniversalStone-Inc.com to request a free natural stone quote.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Check Out Universal Stone’s Residential Gallery!

There’s no better way to see what Universal Stone can do for your Twin Cities home than by checking out our natural stone residential gallery. It’s where you can see our quality granite countertops, marble sinks and much more. We are proud to be able to put our work on display, and pleased with all the work we’ve done.

If you like what you see, then we’d be honored to showcase our expertise in your home. Contact Universal Stone at 952.746.4690 or visit www.UniversalStone-Inc.com to request a free natural stone quote.

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Request a Free Quote Today from Universal Stone

Are you in need of professional quartz fabrication in your Twin Cities MN home or office? Do you want granite countertops of which you can be proud? Then Universal Stone Inc. can help!

We are experts at natural stone fabrication, and are proud to offer current and future clients the ability to obtain a free quote online. This simple request can be made simply by visiting www.UniversalStone-Inc.com.

When you need marble fabrication in Minneapolis or St. Paul, Universal Stone should be your first choice. Call us today at 952.746.4690!

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Universal Stone Now Offers Inventory Online


Thinking of granite countertops in your Twin Cities MN home? Want to see what natural stone fabricators have, but from the comfort of your chair? Then take a trip over to www.UniversalStone-Inc.com!

Universal Stone, the professional granite, marble & quartz fabricators and installers of record for Minneapolis & St Paul are now proud to offer a searchable, online database of its inventory. Enjoy looking for that perfect natural stone remnant or slab without ever leaving your home!

For everything granite, marble and rinato in the Twin Cities, contact Universal Stone today.

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Upgrading a Kitchen With Granite Countertops - Cost Savings To Be Had While Improving Other Rooms

One of the strongest and most durable of all building materials is a natural stone such as granite. Mostly used as kitchen or bathrooms countertops, granite can serve as a very beautiful focal point of any home. The home owner should not restrict the use of granite to just the kitchen and bathroom. Many of the other areas of the home can benefit from the use of granite or other natural stone.

Certain types of home remodels will pay for themselves when the home is sold. Kitchen upgrades or remodels are a prime example of the home owner receiving close to a 100% return on the investment. After upgrading the kitchen with a granite countertop there are subtle, but effectively simple ways to jazz up the rest of the home in order to tie it all together. Most home owners would prefer the home to not be dated with a brand new standout kitchen, calling attention to other shortcomings in the house.

The key is to balance the use of granite throughout the home. Particular areas which lend themselves nicely to using granite are mantels and fireplace surrounds, built-in shelving, window sills or tabletops. Do not forget about the exterior of the back yard. Most of the time the patio or deck is just outside of the kitchen. Unlike some other types of countertops granite is the ideal choice for creating an outdoor kitchen for barbecues and cookouts. Laminate counters, as well as some porous natural stone materials, are not ideal due to the conditions nature provides. A stone fabricator should be able to advise the client which type of stone will be durable enough to weather outdoor environments.

It is important for the home owner to note that if there is the intention of accenting the rest of the home by incorporating granite or other natural stone throughout in order to achieve an organic flow, it is recommended to select all of the slabs at the same time. If the home owner selects more granite at a later date, it is quite probable that finding a slab with like marbling or veining and coloring will be exceedingly difficult and unlikely due to the ever changing variation of natural stone. No two slabs are alike, but very similar patterning, texture, and appearance can be found on slabs from the same area of a quarry.

Stone fabricators will many times have a showroom for the home owner and remodeling contractor to view. As one looks through the displays or portfolios other ideas on how to best complement the rest of the home may develop. The stone fabricators and contractors may be able to use any excess of the selected slab in the client's home.

For more information on granite countertops and other natural stone, visit Universal Stone Inc. of Shakopee, MN.

Article independently authored by Dan Elliott. The content herein may or may not reflect the views and opinions of Universal Stone Inc. Click for search engine optimization and search engine marketing or visit WebDrafter.com's Blog.