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Kitchen Trends for Tiles/Countertops - What’s in, What’s Out?

Remodeling a kitchen is a significant project that takes a lot of planning, time, effort, and not to forget, a sizable budget. Many of the elements that go into a kitchen can’t be changed out in a year or two if you decide in the future that you don’t like them. A coffee table in your living room can easily be replaced. Your kitchen cabinets are there to stay much longer. If you’re getting ready for a kitchen renovation and checking out tiles stores in Ottawa, you should know the trends that are fading out of fashion and which ones are chic and timeless.

Outdated Elements of Kitchen Design

Kitchen fads come and go. Remember avocado green or harvest gold appliances? Aren’t you glad that those colours are out? Modern colour choices are natural browns and greens, but we’ve seen many combinations over the years. Some kitchen trends make your kitchen feel modern and chic. Other trends can become outdated so quickly, your kitchen might feel out of style in just a year. Here are some kitchen fads that are losing popularity.

· Open Shelving

· Colourful Appliances

· Rustic Wood

· Tiled Countertops

· Glass Mosaic Background Tiles

Timeless Kitchen Trends

A little black dress is a timeless fashion piece. You might need to update it with trendy jewelry and shoes, but the LBD is a classic standard in most women’s wardrobes. It’s the same with your kitchen. There are some standard elements and features that simply never go out of style.

Everyone always wants pantry space. Most kitchens can always use more drawers and counterspace. The traditional kitchen triangle of stove, sink and refrigerator is still one of the most efficient layouts for a kitchen design. When you’re remodeling, think about these timeless kitchen trends.

· Natural Stone Countertops

· Subway Tiles

· Sustainability

· Open Kitchens

Let Us Show You the Beauty of Natural Stone

From the floor to the ceiling, you want your kitchen to be inviting, functional, and timeless. StoneSense specializes in natural stone, ceramic and porcelain tile, mosaic, and hardwood for your home. We source our products from sustainable and high-quality suppliers to make your kitchen beautiful. Our installers are highly trained and qualified to handle any size job in the kitchen, living room, or bathroom. We know marble, quartz, and granite in Ottawa. Contact us to learn more about choosing the right countertops, tiles and flooring products for your kitchen.

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Which is more stain-resistant, granite or marble?

If you’re considering a kitchen renovation with new countertops, you might be deciding between granite and marble. Marble is elegant, but more expensive. Granite is durable, and a little more affordable. Both make for beautiful countertops. Choosing marble or granite countertops for your Ottawa home can be difficult. Here’s what to know about staining in these natural stone surfaces.

Granite Countertops and Staining

Granite countertops are more stain-resistant than marble. That said, your granite countertops need to be sealed regularly, perhaps even annually to keep your countertops looking their best. Granite will stain from liquids left on the counter without cleaning up. Cooking oils, mustard, red wine, and citrus juices will stain a granite countertop if they’re allowed to soak into the stone.

Marble Countertops and Staining

Marble countertops for your Ottawa home are porous, which means they stain easier than granite. You should use a sealant on your marble, to help protect it. Clean up spills when they happen. Be careful of tomato sauce, citrus, and other acidic liquids that can get on your countertop, because these liquids can etch into the stone.

What Countertop Fits Into Your Kitchen?

When you’re renovating your kitchen, you want a countertop that is timeless, beautiful, and low maintenance. Stonesense is your tile store in Ottawa where you can see a huge selection of natural stone countertops.

Originally Posted on Stonsense

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Granite and Marble Countertops: How Much Do They Cost?

Granite and marble countertops are popular in Ottawa kitchens. Both types of natural stone are beautiful accent pieces in any home. If you’re renovating your kitchen, you might be trying to decide which stone fits into your style and budget. Our experts can help you decide between marble or granite countertops in Ottawa.

Installation Costs of Countertops

Granite and marble countertops in Ottawa need to be installed by professionals. Stone slabs aren’t easy to handle and manage. This can increase your overall costs, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your countertops will withstand the test of time. Expect to spend from $75 to $175 per square foot for granite countertops. Marble is more expensive than granite. It can run from $100 to $200 or more per square foot for installation.

Factors That Can Influence Price and Installation

Your price for installation can increase based on:

Slab thickness – the thicker the slab, the more expensive.

Cutouts – how many holes you need to cut out for your stove, sinks, and faucets raises the price.

Edge style and finish – simple edge finishes are less expensive than complex styles.

Number of seams – if you have unusual shapes or a larger kitchen, it can cost more to build the countertop.

Our experts can help you choose between marble and granite countertops to find the right material for your kitchen. Visit our tile store in Ottawa to view a selection of countertops and to get ideas for your kitchen renovation.

Originally Posted on Stonesense

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Tips for Choosing Marble or Granite for Durable Countertops

Natural stone is a popular choice for countertops. Granite and marble are probably the two most common options for kitchens, and each have their pros and cons. If you’re looking for durability, you might be wondering which stone will last longer. Experts at tile stores in Ottawa give you the pros and cons about each type of stone.

Marble Countertops for Your Ottawa Home

Marble is a beautiful material with elegant vein patterns and many colors and styles. Although it is heat-resistant, you shouldn’t put a hot pan on your counter. Marble is more expensive than granite countertops in Ottawa. It is more susceptible to staining and scratches than granite. Many believe that marble isn’t as durable for countertops than granite, but a lot is also dependent on how you use and maintain your kitchen countertop.

Granite Countertops in Your Ottawa Home

Granite also comes in many colors and styles. It’s generally less expensive than marble countertops for an Ottawa home. Granite is susceptible to scratches and has the potential to stain, but granite requires less maintenance than marble. Most tile stores in Ottawa would say that it is more durable than marble.

Both marble and granite countertops are statement pieces in any kitchen renovation. Visit Stonesense to see a huge selection of natural stone countertops and let our staff help you choose what fits your style.

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Exciting Colour and Design Options: Marble vs Granite Counters

When choosing between granite and marble, you’ll have a wide range of patterns and colours to create a customized countertop. However, each distinctive element will help you narrow down your choice to choose your slabs with confidence. Let’s look at the differences in appearance and style.

Granite has lots of colour choices and bold patterns

Do you find yourself gravitating toward granite due to the wide range of colors and gorgeous flecks and veins imbuing each slab with a unique personality?

Granite countertops in Ottawa come in an array of shades, from classy black, white, or gray to more vivid hues, such as pink, gold, green, and red. If you favour traditional or transition styles, granite is the obvious choice. However, don’t rule it out for contemporary looks if you crave a pop of colour in your kitchen. Do keep in mind that customized colours may sometimes narrow the pool of buyers when you decide to sell.

Marble exudes a clean, modern vibe

So, you’re looking for a more stately look to match your modern, industrial, or minimalist interior décor. In that case, marble countertops in Ottawa come in beautiful blacks and whites that will stun visitors without overwhelming them. Marble elevates your kitchen without sacrificing functionality.

Marble countertops often cost more than granite, so if you’re looking to stick to a budget, compare it to black, gray, or white granite slabs before committing to the sale. Marble comes in classic colours that include white, cream, beige, tan, and black. Gray and gold veins add visual appeal without the more boisterous movement of granite’s veins and flecks.

So, which one should you choose? StoneSense stands out among other tile stores in Ottawa for our vast selection of natural stone countertops. Let our knowledgeable staff help you brainstorm the best options for you when comparing granite and marble countertops.

Originally Posted on StoneSense

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Should I get granite or marble countertops for my kitchen renovation? Learn the differences and choose from the wide selection available at StoneSense.

#Marble Countertops #Kitchen Renovation #granite countertops in Ottawa #marble countertops in Ottawa #tile stores in Ottawa #natural stone countertops

Should I get granite or marble countertops for my kitchen renovation?

Natural stone creates a bespoke look for your kitchen countertops. For homeowners who want truly unique kitchens, granite or marble countertops provide one-of-a-kind colours and patterns that can tie together other design elements such as appliances and cabinetry. Learn more about the differences between these two popular natural stone materials and explore the factors that can help you decide which one to choose for your kitchen makeover in Ottawa.

At StoneSense, we offer a huge selection of granite and marble countertops to enhance your new kitchen designs. There are pros and cons to each of these beautiful materials, and you also need to consider which one would best fit into your budget. Typically, granite is more cost-effective than marble, but many homeowners choose marble for its unique features and natural elegance.

Keep reading to discover the differences between marble and granite countertops in Ottawa.

Between granite and marble, which countertop has more design and colour options?

Granite countertops have a natural look with a range of colour and pattern choices homeowners love. For those who admire the flecks and veins of pink, black, green, red, and gold inherent in this natural stone, granite becomes the obvious choice for kitchen renovations. Alternatively, marble countertops in Ottawa typically come in stately blacks and whites. Marble’s elegant appearance can elevate the ambiance of your new kitchen. It also has a more consistent colour pattern than granite.

Do granite or marble countertops require more maintenance?

Many homeowners find granite easier to maintain than marble. Seal granite shortly after installation to prevent stains and scratches and reseal it annually for best results. On the other hand, marble requires much more frequent maintenance. Because it’s porous, marble requires sealing every six months. Even sealed marble stains easily. Additionally, acidic liquid such as lemon or tomato juice can etch marble countertops.

Which countertop is more durable—granite or marble?

For the most durable natural stone material, choose granite countertops in Ottawa. Granite countertops have the following resilient qualities:

Durable granite resists chips and cracks.

You can cut right on the surface.

It’s okay to place hot pans and dishes directly on the granite counter.

Spills wipe away quickly without staining.

While marble resists damage, its porous quality makes it more prone to stains and etching.

How much do granite and marble countertops cost?

Natural stone countertops look gorgeous but require skilled workers to install them properly. Therefore, factor in the cost of professional labour when setting your budget for granite or marble countertops.

Granite is less expensive than marble and costs from $75 to $175 per square foot to install.

Marble is more delicate and costs from $100 to $200+ per square foot installed.

Which countertop is more stain-resistant—granite or marble?

Granite is more stain-resistant than marble. A well-sealed granite countertop beads water and other liquids without staining. Note that when water no longer beads on the surface, it’s time to reseal your countertop.

Use a sealant designed for marble to maintain these elegant countertops. Even with regular resealing, marble is prone to staining. You can use a poultice to remove certain stains, but tomato sauce, lemon juice and wine frequently cause etching on marble countertops.

Whichever material you choose, note that StoneSense stands out among tile stores in Ottawa for our wide selection of sophisticated, durable, and best in class marble and granite countertops. You’ll notice the difference immediately when you browse through our online inventory or stop by our showroom. That’s because we select, cut, and install each slab ourselves. Each piece we work on goes through no less than three distinct processes. A master stonecutter selects and finishes your countertop from start to finish, a truly unique advantage in the industry.

Visit our tile store in Ottawa to see a huge selection of natural stone countertops. Talk to our staff about your kitchen renovation project and we’ll be happy to help you choose between granite and marble or other materials for your countertops.

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How to Distinguish Different Grades in Granite for Your Ottawa Home

Granite forms when molten lava flows through the natural stone. This process transforms the stone into unique patterns with different colours, grains, and qualities. When cut and polished, granite becomes one of the most beautiful natural materials you can use to elevate the look and value of your Ottawa home. You can find granite in an endless array of colours and patterns.

Even granite mined from the same quarry can have drastically contrasting qualities. Let’s take a look at how you can tell the difference between different grades of granite.

1. Level 1 – Low-Grade or Entry-Level Granite

Level 1 is also referred to as low-grade or entry-level granite. In the construction industry, craftsmen call it builder’s grade or commercial grade granite. It’s used to create prefabricated granite countertops for apartments and furniture.

Because it’s only 3/8 inch thick, builders attach it to plywood for strength and durability. Level 1 granite comes in simple styles and colours with less variation than higher grades. Typically, low-grade granite comes from China for sale in big box stores.

If you’re looking to make a lasting impression with your remodel, we don’t recommend level 1 for bathroom and kitchen countertops in Ottawa.

2. Level 2 – Mid-Grade Granite

At 3/4 inch thick, level 2 or mid-grade granite is twice as thick as low-grade slabs. You can find unique colours and designs that help your home stand out. This level also has defined markings that help you customize your countertops. Most mid-grade granite comes from Brazil or India.

3. Level 3 – High-Grade Granite

Level 3 and above denotes the finest quality of granite. The higher the number, the better the quality. At this level, you can choose a granite slab with rare qualities that make supplies scarce. Brazil and India produce high-grade granite with 3/4-inch thickness.

Do you want granite countertops with rich veins, a mixture of soft and hard minerals, and uncommon colours? If so, StoneSense representatives can help you find the perfect slab for your Ottawa kitchen or bathroom renovation. We also have high-end fixtures such as matte or sparkling faucets and shallow or deep sinks to finish your bathroom, kitchen, or laundry room remodel. We respond promptly when you fill out our contact form to request a free consultation.

Originally Posted on StoneSense

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Increase Your Home’s Value with a Granite Countertops in Ottawa

Most remodels improve your quality of life and enrich the beauty of your home. By concentrating on areas you use the most, such as the kitchen and bathroom, you can greatly improve the functionality of daily living.

Thinking of selling your home in a few years? Few upgrades match the return on investment of adding granite countertops. High-quality granite countertops bring superb aesthetic appeal and long-lasting durability to your Ottawa build or remodel, and they may increase the value of your home by 25% of the counter’s retail value.

You can find unparalleled granite slabs for kitchen and bathroom countertops at StoneSense. Our stonecutters have an uncanny knack for bringing out the beauty in each piece of raw granite. We also offer faucets and sinks that look beautiful with granite countertops.

Top Reasons Granite Countertops Increase Your Home’s Market Value

Granite doesn’t go out of style

Strength and durability

Maximum return on investment

Easy to Care For

Eco-friendly qualities of natural granite

We can provide an estimate for granite countertops that may increase the value of your Ottawa home.

Read more: Granite Countertops in Ottawa

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What Colours Stay On Trend for Granite Countertops?

Granite countertops are carved out of living rock. Raw granite comes in different grades, colours, and patterns. The style you choose for your kitchen or bathroom should match your family’s preferences. However, certain colours have remained popular for decades.

Perennially popular granite colours:

Solid black

White

Earthy tones

Neutral shades

Some homeowners stick to matching their own style preferences rather than worrying about whether their granite choice will remain popular. If that describes you, go with blue, red, and gold slabs that match your colour palette.

Read more: https://stonesense.ca/trend-never-goes-style-granite-countertops-ottawa-home/

Ideas and Inspiration for Updating Your Kitchen Countertops

Natural Stone is in: The kitchen countertop trends for 2021 suggest that not everything is about quality and practicality alone. Designers and consumers are consciously trying to choose more eco-friendly options and natural materials that involve less processing. The unusual structure, natural graining or veining patterns and high durability of granite and natural stone countertops puts them at the top the list.

Think Thin: Modern minimalist designs are demanding thin countertops that create a lighter, airier appearance and make every type of kitchen look more spacious. High quality and durable materials, such as granite, porcelain stoneware, or other natural stones can be fabricated to as thin as one centimetre. These countertops will still provide the same sturdiness and longevity as the standard -centimetre or 2-centimetre-thick slabs.

Quintessential Quartz: As a highly durable manmade surface, a quartz countertop promises a fair degree of uniformity in textures, tones and veining. Due to its resistance to stains, spills and heat, along with an extensive range of colors and finishes, quartz continues to be the popular option for those who are after cost-efficient, low-maintenance countertop materials.

Marble-like Makeover: One of the topmost kitchen countertop trends for 2021 is to install marble-like quartz countertops that exude style and luxury without stretching the remodeling budget. Greys, whites, and other light-colored, cool-toned variants may find their way into many kitchens this year.

Slab Backsplash: While subway tiles and mosaics remain the more affordable options, slab backsplash is making quite a splash in 2021. Countertop materials, such as granite, quartz, glass, natural stone or marble are being extended as backsplashes for a seamless, contemporary look.

Waterfall Edges: Gaining increasing popularity over the last few years, the waterfall edge countertop sits high up in the kitchen countertop trends for 2021. For those who are looking to add a modern and luxurious visual feel without going through a complete kitchen makeover, the waterfall edge offers a great option at a fraction of the cost.

Hone it Up: A matte finish with little to no shine, the honed look is more on trend in 2021 than ever before. While the overall look varies based on the countertop materials and colors, a honed finish delivers a smooth, elegant, low-sheen visual if you want something different from the usual glossy, polished surface. The honed finish pairs well with natural stone such as marble for concealing flaws and scratches more readily. The relatively newer leather finishes, which offer a soft, less glossy sheen and hide water spots or fingerprints are also gaining popularity in recent years.

Veining and Patterns Add Character: As per the latest trends, the bolder the veining and patterns, the greater the appeal. Whether it is natural stone or engineered stone, countertops with dense veining can create a truly captivating look and make a statement in your kitchen.

Sinks Matter: Kitchen sinks are a big part of countertops. While the range of sizes, shapes and finishes continues to expand, the traditional stainless steel sinks are making way for colored ones, such as gold, matte black and brass. Farmhouse sinks and oversized sinks also make it to the top kitchen countertop trends for 2021.

Read more: https://stonesense.ca/kitchen-countertop-trends-2021/

Which Marble is the Best for Kitchen Countertops?

Marble countertops in a kitchen add a sense of luxury and give your kitchen a classic, but also modern look. If you are thinking of installing them in your home’s kitchen, you want to select the right style, colour, and variety. Read on to discover which marble is best for kitchen countertops!

#stone countertops

Marble countertops in a kitchen add a sense of luxury and give your kitchen a classic, but also modern look. If you are thinking of installing them in your home’s kitchen, you want to select the right style, colour, and variety. Read on to discover which marble is best for kitchen countertops!

#marble #kitchen #stone countertops

Quartz vs Granite Countertops | What Do I Pick? | StoneSense

Quartz vs Granite Countertops – Which One Should I Pick? Generally speaking when it comes to quartz vs granite countertops, choosing quartz countertops can provide you with numerous advantages over purchasing a natural stone countertop like granite. Find out why?

Quartz vs Granite Countertops – Here’s the key reasons why quartz is better than granite: Durability – Quartz countertops can withstand harsher daily use than granite. It is less likely to chip and scratch too. Durability of Quartz vs. Durability of Granite | quartz vs granite countertops | StoneSense

Less Worry about Bacteria and Stains – Quartz is non-porous, which means no worrying about bacteria seeping into the small holes of the stone or stains if you spill juice and wine on the countertop’s surface.

Upkeep of Quartz vs. Upkeep of Granite | quartz vs granite countertops | StoneSense

Increased Home Value – Quartz, while more expensive, does increase your home’s value. More homebuyers want quartz for its longevity, durability, and easy care.

Quartz vs. Granite: Real Estate Value | quartz vs granite countertops | StoneSense

While nearly indestructible, the only thing quartz cannot do is stand up to high heat. It discolors when exposed to extreme temperatures; therefore, you should never place a pan on top of the countertop directly.

Searching for Stone Countertops? | Quartz Countertops | StoneSense

Picking the right countertop does not have to be difficult. Instead, you can work with the team at StoneSense to purchase your countertops and have them cut and installed for a flawless finish.

Download our Ultimate Guide to Selecting Stone Countertops today so you can make the right decision for your kitchen renovation.

Original Resource: https://stonesense.ca/quartz-vs-granite-countertops/

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Kitchen Countertop Trends for 2021

Planning a kitchen renovation is one of the most exciting home improvement projects. From upgrading light fixtures, appliances or hardware, to changing the paint colour, countertops and cabinetry, there may be a number of items on your wish list. If replacing countertops or adding new prep space is one of your key renovation goals, the possibilities are endless. However, at times, greater the choices, tougher the selection process.

Should you go for granite, quartz, natural stone or some other material? Which countertops will be a better match for your lifestyle, cooking habits and maintenance preferences?

What colors or patterns will look good with the rest of your kitchen? Should you select something that creates a contrast and makes a style statement, or go with options that effortlessly complement the surrounding design?

Choosing a kitchen countertop can be a time-consuming and confusing process. You can select patterns and colors that are timeless and elegant, or experiment with the latest designs to be fashion forward. Here are some of the top kitchen countertop trends in 2021 that may inspire your kitchen makeover.