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June 1 2023

What to Expect When You Choose Continental

admin post Countertop and Cabinet Installation

THE PREP

Have you ever had to complete a project so large that you had no idea where to start? When you choose Continental, we want to make sure there is no guesswork throughout the whole installation process. First, it is important to have a plan for your children and pets during the construction process because construction can take several hours. Where will your pets be located, and where will your children be allowed to play safely? Make sure that everyone in your family is on the same page before our team begins the project. Plan ahead by preparing for electrical or plumbing changes ahead of time. Ensure that your electrician or plumber has time to uninstall or adjust wires or pipes that may interfere with or are changing locations during the installation. When you choose Continental, our team will remove the existing countertops and/or cabinets, so you don’t have to worry about completing this beforehand. If you would like to take extra steps to ensure the cleanliness of your home, you can cover any furniture or belongings, but our team takes every step possible to mitigate dust to ensure the cleanest installation process possible. Lastly, it is crucial for the safety of our team members and your family that you make a clear pathway to the remodel area. Our team will be carrying materials in and out of your home, so it is crucial to take the time to remove any belongings that could be in the way. Additionally, remove all artwork and items from your current cabinets. The time that you take to prepare your space for your installation is crucial to the successful and safe execution of your project!

Please keep in mind that the time frame of your project will depend on the complexities of your installation and all that it will involve. Variables may include the materials used, as well as how large your project is. It is important to note that Continental Granite and Cabinets does not cut their clients’ cabinets and/or countertops onsite to ensure the most seamless process possible. Although there isn’t much variation in the process for installing granite, quartz, or marble, your choice may still have an impact on how long the installation is projected to take.

When you choose Continental, you hire a team to be with you each step of the way. We walk alongside you to ensure that you understand each step of the process and are here to answer any questions that may arise along the way.

THE INSTALL

The outcome of your installation is essential. To ensure that you and your contractor are on the same page, it is key that you communicate with your contractor throughout every step of the project. It is important to keep in mind that your countertops are laid after the cabinets have been installed. Also, your countertops will be installed after your flooring and your dishwasher and cooktop are in place, so make sure that you are happy with the location of these appliances prior to installation day. If you are planning on installing a backsplash as well, it should always be installed after your cabinets and countertops. We advise you to discuss this process with your contractor to make sure you have the most successful installation process possible. Nobody wants a miscut countertop, which is why it is important that you have a plan for all of your sink faucets, soap pumps, and anything else that may interfere with the cut of your counters. Lastly, it is best to wait until after your cabinet and countertop installation to paint your walls. If you have any additional questions or concerns regarding the installation process, reach out to your contractor prior to the day of installation so there are no surprises.

You are guaranteed a team of professionals who will assist and be there to support you and answer any questions you may have along the way when you choose Continental. We value your opinions and concerns, and we aim to make this process as seamless as possible.

AFTER INSTALL

Following your installation, make sure that everything has been completed to the standards that were agreed upon. If you have any concerns or questions, be sure to bring these to your contractor immediately, so any issues can be resolved as soon as possible. Whether your installation took place in your bathroom or your kitchen, make sure you clean your space so it is ready for use again. In addition, it is also highly important that you check with your electrician and/or plumber to make sure everything is re-connected and set up correctly again.

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Improve the look of your home’s cabinets and countertops with Continental Granite. Check out our past projects, and if you have any further questions about the installation process, give Continental a call at 386.586.7059.

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Continental Granite & Cabinets offers our clients a wide variety of custom fabrication needs, including countertops, fireplaces, stairs, wall cladding, flooring, bars, furniture pieces, custom trim, and much more. We also offer a wide range of products to make such creations, such as Granite, Marble, Onyx, Travertine, Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone, Corian Quartz, etc. Continental Granite & Cabinets is proud to be a family-owned and operated business and treats its customers as if they were one of their own. We’re located in Bunnell, Florida, just 6 miles Northwest of Destination-Daytona in Ormond Beach, Florida, serving all of Central Florida and beyond. We believe our relationship with our customers lasts much longer than the current project we are working on with them. To learn more, call us today at 386.586.7059 or fill out our contact form here.

February 22 2023

Visit Continental Granite & Cabinets Showroom

admin Uncategorized custom cabinets, granite countertops, quartz countertops, quartzite countertops

Welcome to Continental Granite & Cabinets

When you are building your dream home or remodeling the home that you’ve spent years building memories in, every detail matters. That is why at Continental Granite, we walk you through every step of the way at a pace that benefits your project timeline and your decision-making process. When you visit our showroom in Bunnell, Florida, you will meet our team and will receive the grand tour of our products from our team expert, Brent!

While at the showroom, you will visit two separate portions of the facility. First, you’ll enter the main lobby, where you will review product and service offerings to gain an understanding of the direction that our team can take your home! From your kitchen to your bathroom, living room, home office, outdoor kitchen, and beyond, your project will be in great hands.

Not only will you view catalogs, but you will also get first-hand experience to see granite, quartz, quartzite, and marble products up close and personal. You can feel what each product’s texture is like and how the true colors and textures appear, and then you can compare multiple products that you may want to pair in unique ways throughout your home.

At this time, you may be interested in reviewing the custom cabinets that our team can design to fit your space perfectly and pair well with the counters that catch your eye! As you view countertop samples, you will check out brands like Cambria, Viatera by LG Hausys, Silestone by Cosentino, Spectrum Quartz, Pompeii Quartz, Crossville Porcelain, Premium Natural Quartz from MSI, Wilsonart, Caeserstone, Curava, Dekton, and more. We are your local Cambria Premiere Dealer and will also walk you through our Cambria showroom! We will review, in detail, the quality of the products that you are interested in, from the installation process to the aftercare that you will need to know for extending the life of your new slab!

Not only will our team walk you through gallery setups of products that may be the next product to complete your luxury remodel or dream build, we will also walk you directly into our slab yard so that you can pick the exact piece of natural stone that will go into your home. This is an incredibly important step to truly personalize your room because every natural stone is different and unique in its own way. The natural waves, speckles, tones, patterns, and designs can vary from one slab to another. You may want a piece of quartz that has a tan tone and a green tone with tan more heavily outweighing green. This is absolutely possible and there may be two or more slabs for you and your family to decide between!

Some tips that we have to enrich your experience at the showroom would be to bring a sample from the room that your countertops or cabinets will be going into! From a paint sample card to a floor tile, to a piece of backsplash, we want to make sure that you make the right decision for YOU! If you are starting the process with no other design aspects in mind, that is a-okay, and we are here to help! We encourage you to do some light research beforehand as we have found that our customers often feel less overwhelmed and more prepared for the vision of each room.

Come on down to 5950 S. US HWY 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to visit our showroom any time between 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Monday to Friday. If you have any questions before you visit, you can reach our team at 386.586.7059. We cannot wait to help you turn your house into your dream home.

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November 8 2022

Dated to Dazzling

admin Uncategorized countertopsnearme, customcabinets, fullkitchenremodel, homerenovations, kitchencabinetsnearme, kitchendesign, kitchenorganization, kitchenremodel, mycambria, ormondbeachcountertops, samsungapplicances, updatingyourkitchen

Continental is proud to offer the finest natural stone and quartz products and custom cabinets for Ormond Beach, Daytona Beach, and all of Central Florida. It is always an honor to work with a family on their home projects. Kristin, Keith and their two boys Kylar & Knox are some of the best clients. Repeat clients. We were thrilled to work with the Deaton family last year on their master bathroom. Kristin communicated that their experience went so well they knew who to go to when they decided to do a full remodel on their kitchen this summer.

BATHROOM DREAMS

FULL KITCHEN REMODEL

Kristin Deaton’s vision began when she discovered Cambria’s Luxury Series BRITTANICCA GOLD. This quartz has flowing, multi-hued streams of copper gold, fog, and translucent greige coursing through a grand design accompanied by wisps and ribbons of warm earth tones against a temperate white background.

BEFORE

DATED TO DAZZLING KITCHEN REMODEL

This incredible remodel breathed new life into old bones and proves that a renovation can go a long way in a home with a locked-in floor plan. The Deatons wanted an updated modern feel that allowed for storage and organization and a place for their family to cook, entertain, and spend time together.

This kitchen went from dated to dazzling!! In collaboration, the Deaton family and Continental Granite replaced this home’s original cabinetry with modern Evoke Cabinetry. Kristin chose the color Alabaster, in the style Oslo Narrow for her cabinets and the color of Oak Suede for the vent hood – a perfect match for the Brittanicca Gold countertops and backsplash.

The ceiling height was considered and utilized to produce the most maximized space possible. Floor-to-ceiling cabinets were placed where possible and a combination of doors and drawers to accommodate their storage needs ensured a place for everything. Updated appliances by Samsung were added to accentuate the modern feel. The waterfall countertop accents make the space feel very luxurious, and the drawer and cabinet inserts create a functional space that also looks beautiful.

AFTER

July 21 2022

NO TWO EDGES ABOUT IT

admin Uncategorized bathroomdesign, cambria, countertop edges, countertops, Granite, home design, interiordesign, kitchen design, Marble, Quartz, Quartzite, solid surfaces

DESIGN CHOICES: WHICH EDGE SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

There are many decisions to make when designing an area in your home or office, from colors, cabinet styles, countertop material, flooring, layout, and design style. Choosing a countertop profile or edge is just one of those decisions that you will make when remodeling or designing a new area in your home.

There are many countertop profile/edge styles to choose from, but it is important to note that not all edge styles are available with all countertop material options. There are standard edges like Flat Polish, Bullnose, Half Bullnose, Bevel, and specialty edges like Ogee and Dep Ogee.

Flat Polish

The Flat Polish edge is simple, clean, and considered a classic style. Flat Polish edges stop just short of being entirely square. The edges are only slightly rounded, with an overall profile maintaining straight lines.

The simplicity of the edge allows for patterns to stand out. This edge works well in small spaces with tight corners and designs that look for a minimal, modern look.

Bullnose

The Bullnose edge comes in two styles: a Full Bullnose and a Half Bullnose. The edge has a rounded profile creating a clean and timeless appearance.

One of the benefits of a Bullnose edge is that it enhances the durability of the stone with a smooth edge, making it less susceptible to chipping and breaking.

The Full Bullnose features a rounded edge on both sides, while the Half Bullnose features a rounded stone edge on the top and a shaped edge on the bottom.

Bevel

A Bevel edge looks excellent in almost any space and is one of the most popular for kitchens and bathrooms. These edges have a 45-degree slice from the top, creating a different look while maintaining a rounded effect. This edge is considered low profile, with a modern look.

Ogee

The Ogee edge has an exquisite and classy look and an air of luxury. This edge has two curves, a concave and then convex, creating a subtle “S” shape. This edge is used in more of a classic or traditional design. This edge is also deeper than other edges, which hangs a little further past the cabinet.

Deep Ogee

This edge has a sleek and graceful appearance and would look great with contemporary and traditional designs.

With so many options available, you will want to consider the stone you have chosen, the space, the cabinetry, and the overall design feel you are looking for before making your final decision. It can be overwhelming sometimes. Allow an expert to help guide you in the right direction. Stop by our showroom, and one of our team members would be happy to assist.

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June 21 2022

KEEPING GRANITE, QUARTZ & MARBLE COUNTERTOPS CLEAN

admin Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite, Granite Countertops, Marble, Quartz, Quartz Countertops

WHO IS CONTINENAL?

Continental Granite is a family-owned and operated custom fabrication shop located in North-Central Florida, providing superior quality products and services, including but not limited to granite, marble, onyx, travertine, Silestone, Cambria, Ceasarstone, and Corian. Continental also works with the best cabinet makers in the business to provide cabinet options for both residential and commercial projects.

Continental Granite offers a combined 80+ years of experience in residential and commercial projects and services in 50 states. We pride ourselves on building relationships with our customers, including homeowners, business owners, and interior and design professionals.

Granite, Quartz & Marble

Whether you are remodeling or starting from scratch with a residential or commercial project, deciding on a countertop is an important decision that you will most likely be making. There are several options, but the three most popular materials used in countertops are granite, quartz, and marble. The material you choose can significantly impact the visual appearance of the completed project and your budget. Let’s look at how these three materials compare to one another and how to keep them looking fabulous.

GRANITE

Granite produces some of the most beautiful counter surface areas you can find. There is an abundance of styles and colors to choose from. No two granite countertops look the same, and it has a very organic appearance.

Granite is a natural resource and type of igneous rock that combines minerals like mica, quartz, plagioclase, and feldspar. This combination creates one of the toughest natural stones available for residential and commercial projects.

Granite is stain-resistant, heat-resistant, and scratch-resistant, but granite can sustain damage such as cracks and chips if not careful with day-to-day usage. The durability makes a perfect choice for any home or office.

Granite pricing ranges from $50 to $175 per square foot installed.

Maintenance requires your countertop to be cleaned daily with mild soap and water or a non-harsh cleaning product. To maintain the integrity of the stone, you must also seal the granite approximately every year.

QUARTZ

Quartz is an engineered product created with a combination of ninety percent ground natural quartz and roughly ten percent polyresin. These percentages may vary slightly depending on the brand of quartz.

Quartz has a more uniform appearance than granite and marble. It has the look of stone but without imperfections and varying patterns.

Quartz is a durable option but can not withstand high levels of heat. High levels of heat can melt the resin and lead to burn marks on the surface.

Quartz surfaces are non-porous and considered relatively bacteria-free. The polyresin materials protect the surface from needing to be sealed. However, if you require a long span of countertop, you may need to seam together multiple pieces of quartz. Continental uses a unique Invisa-Seam process. With this process, we can minimize unsightly separations in the countertops, giving them a more seamless look.

Quartz pricing ranges from $65 to $150 per square foot installed.

Similar to the granite countertop, quartz maintenance is relatively simple. Clean daily with mild soap and water, making sure not to use harsh chemicals.

MARBLE

Marble is considered a timeless classic when it comes to interior and commercial design. Marble has been used for centuries, including in some of the most famous sculptures and statues.

For years marble has also been used in many homes, offices, restaurants, and commercial spaces.

Marble is a metamorphic rock that is formed by the transformation of other rock types; in this case, the other rock is limestone. Marble is more porous than granite and quartz, making it more maintenance-heavy. Marble can easily stain and scratch, making it less durable than granite and quartz.

Marble offers several options when it comes to color, veining, and edges.

Marble pricing ranges from $50 to $180 per square foot installed.

Marble is vulnerable to acidic food and drinks and will need to be cleaned quickly. Items such as tomatoes, citrus fruits, soda, coffee, wine, fruit juice, and even vinegar can damage the marble. Suggested cleaning is wiping down the countertop with a damp cloth and a pH-neutral cleaner designed for stone. Be sure not to use abrasive cleaners that can damage and dull the finish.

Many stains that appear on marble countertops can be lifted with a mixture of baking soda and water. Spread the paste on the stained area, leave for 12-24 hours, and then wipe with a damp cloth.

Marble also requires that it be sealed periodically. As with granite, sealing can prevent stains and damage to the surface, maintaining the countertop’s beauty.

Granite, quartz, and marble provide a pleasing aesthetic to your space. Granite and quartz offer a more maintenance-free choice for your kitchen, bathroom, office, or commercial space.

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May 24 2022

Using Design Elements in Your Office Space

admin Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Ormond Beach Countertops, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz Countertops Commercial countertops, Commercial Design, countertops, Office Remodel, Solid Surface in Office Design

A Mix of Light & Dark: The Law Offices of Chanfrau & Chanfrau

Over the last few years, where people work has changed. In a short period of time, we have gone from working in an office building full-time to working from home full-time, to a hybrid of both, and now some organizations are transitioning back to a full-time return to an office building. Creating and maintaining a dynamic office space is essential for both the client and your team.

Creating a space that is warm, welcoming, functional, and up to date speaks volumes to your team and your clients and can increase morale and increase productivity. A pleasing, well-organized space promotes confidence and pride in your organization.

As we transition back to spending more time at an office instead of our homes, we are reminded that design aesthetics can affect how your team works. Why does office design matter?

1. Your team spends a lot of time at the office.

According to a study done by Ohio State University and the National Institute of Mental Health, our workspace affects our health, emotions, and productivity. Creating an updated space displays the importance you place on your team’s work experience. It can also convey your company values like teamwork (gathering space), work/life balance (areas away from desk), innovation (technology), and overall physical and mental health (natural light, paint colors).

2. Clients Expectations

People tend to judge a book by its cover and have expectations when it comes to doing business with a company. Making sure your office space is updated, welcoming, and clean speaks volumes about your company. Your design choices can also communicate that your company is collaborative and has a team atmosphere, creating a welcoming environment for your clients.

We recently had the pleasure of working with the local law firm Chanfrau and Chanfrau and their interior designer, Melissa Kearney with M Kearney Designs, to assist in a full remodel of their offices. The results of this collaboration are impressive. We asked what inspired the updated design. Kearney commented “The building itself was the inspiration. It is a historic Spanish style building with wonderful architecture.”

We also asked Kearney what is the major difference between designing a commercial property and a residential property. Kearney stated “When designing for a commercial space, I take into consideration the wide range of people using the building, versus a homeowner’s individual needs.”

With the exception of your parking area and exterior of your building, your reception area is your organization’s first impression. Your reception area sets the tone for the rest of the office space. Utilizing custom countertop materials in your reception area allows you to create a statement when your clients walk in the door. Custom countertop materials bring a rich unique look to the area that has more of a design feel than just a desk.

We love the brightness of this space and the warmth accomplished by the variety of texture and color. When we asked designer Melissa why she decided on utilizing Cambria countertops throughout the office, she commented “They have a fantastic pattern and color range and superior quality.”

The reception desk design elements include a combination of Cambria quartz, color Helmsley and waterfall edge in Cambria’s Fairbourne. The contrast between the darker and lighter quartz countertops create a beautiful statement in the entrance, especially with the stone back wall and soft-colored tile floor. The lighter color walls also add to the feel of the room.

Helmsley

Fairbourne

This warmth is carried through the office, including the kitchen area and conference rooms.

Front Conference Room

We really love the clean look of this conference room. The contrast of the light walls and floor with the dark wood accents on the window trim and the dark chair accent is a nice balance. The designer’s use of the Cambria quartz, a custom countertop material in Clovelly for the conference room table creates a unique modern feel with a beautiful focal point.

Downstairs Conference Room

The larger of the two conference rooms is almost a contrast to the front conference room: the lighter wood trim and the darker Luxury Series Cambria quartz, a custom countertop material in Golden Dragon (discountinued product, similar products available) on both the table and built-in cabinetry. The same style chair is used in this space, keeping consistency throughout the office.

Kitchen & Coffee Bar Area

The kitchen is where your team will come together daily and is an important space. The designer has carried the same feel to this space as the rest of the remodel. Brightening the space up with natural light, neutral flooring and walls. The downstairs kitchen is designed with Cambria’s custom countertop material in Helmsley, mirroring the reception desk area.

We want to thank the team at Chanfrau and Chanfrau and Melissa Kearney of M Kearney Designs for allowing us to be a part of this project. Whether we are assisting our clients with their home or business design projects, we feel privileged to be a contributor.

Whether you are building from the ground up or remodeling your office, we would love to partner with you on your design project. Stop by our showroom at 5950 S US Highway 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to begin collaborating with our team on your office remodel or construction project.

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Continental Granite & Cabinets offers our clients a wide variety of custom fabrication needs, such as countertops, fireplaces, stairs, wall cladding, flooring, bars, furniture pieces, custom trim and much more. We also offer a wide range of products to make such creations such as Granite, Marble, Onyx, Travertine, Silestone, Cambria, Caesarstone, Corian Quartz, etc. Continental Granite & Cabinets is proud to be a family-owned and operated business and treats its customers as if they were one of their own. We’re located in Bunnell, Florida, just 6 miles Northwest of Destination-Daytona in Ormond Beach, Florida, serving all of Central Florida and beyond. We believe our relationship with our customers lasts much longer than the current project we are working with them. To learn more, call us today at 386.586.7059 or fill out our contact form here.

April 25 2022

Durable & Long-Lasting Countertops

admin Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Leathered Granite, Marble, Ormond Beach Countertops, Outdoor Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz Countertops, Residential Countertops, Uncategorized

In 2022, kitchens will remain one of the top three essential spaces in a home, as reported by the National Association of Realtors. The kitchen, for most, is the heart of the home. Much of our daily lives are spent in the kitchen, cooking, eating, gathering, and partaking in activities such as after-school homework sessions. From a design perspective, the focal point of most kitchens is undeniably the countertop surface, requiring it to be beautiful, functional, and long-lasting. Today’s market offers several options for homeowners to choose when designing their new kitchen from scratch or remodeling. Countertop surfaces come in different colors, patterns, textures, and functionality.

According to a 2022 U.S. Houzz Kitchen Trends Study, more than one-third of homeowners reportedly splurged on countertops (35%). The most common feature improved during kitchen renovations, countertops were upgraded by more than nine in 10 homeowners (91%). The same study indicates that the median spend for both major and minor kitchen remodels increased in mid-2021 by 14% to $40,000 and by 25% to $10,000, respectively, compared to 2020. The median spend for a major kitchen remodel of a large kitchen (250 square feet or more), continued to climb for the fourth year in a row to $50,000, up from $45,000 the previous year. The median spend on a major small kitchen remodel (less than 250 square feet) increased as well, up to $35,000 in mid-2021 from $30,000 in mid-2020.

GRANITE

The second leading choice for countertop surfaces is the natural surface, granite. Granite has been used in the U.S. for countertops as early as the 1920s but became more mainstream during the 1970s. Granite is undoubtedly considered a classic choice but also lends to a contemporary modern look. The timeless look of granite adds a touch of luxury to any home, elevating its value. According to the National Board of Realtors, granite countertops remain a trendy option in traditional and modern designs. The National Association of Realtors survey also found that 55% of survey respondents said they would pay more for granite countertops when purchasing a home.

Granite is a 100% natural and a type of igneous rock. It is made from a crystallized form of hot liquid magma that has been cooled slowly to become a solid hard surface. Granite contains a combination of minerals such as mica, quartz, and feldspar. Quartz and feldspar are tougher than some steel, according to the Mohs scale of hardness, making granite one of the toughest natural stones on the market. It is mined from quarries all around the world, with most of the granite mined in the United States from five states: Massachusetts, Georgia, New Hampshire, South Dakota, and Idaho. Granite is available in numerous colors, slab sizes, thicknesses, and patterns. Due to how it is formed, no two countertops are the same. Its natural beauty often creates an eye-popping look and fits any design style.

Granite countertops are durable and often last the life of a home when cared for properly. Granite’s durability includes resistance to heat and scratches. Because it is formed by heat and pressure, it will not scorch if you place a hot pan/pot on it or scratch when you use your sharp knives to cut and slice items. In fact, a granite counter will often dull your knives if you do not use a cutting board when chopping things.

However, because granite is made of many crystals pressed together, a high-impact hit can likely chip or damage the surface. Furthermore, there can be some staining if certain liquids are spilled and left sitting or the surface is not adequately sealed due to its porous nature. Lighter colors tend to be more susceptible to stains. To ensure the longevity of your investment, consider having your countertops resealed once a year.

MAINTENANCE

Maintenance on your granite countertops is relatively simple. All countertops are recommended to be cleaned daily with a mild soap/cleanser and water.

DESIGN NOTES

One design element that you want to consider when using granite is the uniqueness and natural variations in the stone. It can be hard to hide seams, and countertops may not look exactly alike if not from the same piece.

In addition, if using a bold color or design piece of granite you may want to consider utilizing softer and more muted elements in the room.

PRICING

The average granite countertop cost reported by HomeAdvisor.com ranges from $40 to $100 per square foot. Labor generally adds an additional $35 to $85 per hour to the project’s final cost. Size, color, texture, and origination of the granite impact the product’s price, while design, size, shape, and number of seams dictate the price of the project’s labor costs.

OTHER AREAS TO USE GRANITE IN YOUR DESIGN

Granite is not just for the kitchen. Granite can also be used in bathrooms, laundry rooms, butler pantries, bars, fireplaces, outdoor kitchens, and office areas with its durability and unique design quality.

2022 DESIGN TRENDS

Some of the latest trends in the world of granite are Neutral Tones, Leathered Finish, Matte Finish, and Unique Veining & Patterns.

Neutral Tones include neutral whites, creams, light grays, soft blues, beiges, and mid-tone colors. Most neutral tones go with most cabinet color schemes.

Leathered Finish is an up-and-coming trend. This bold statement may not be for everyone, but it certainly creates a unique space. This finish has a textured, rough surface with no sheen or light-reflecting qualities. This type is generally used in larger areas with lots of natural light.

Unique Veining & Patterns have always been part of the draw to granite as a design choice. The unique patterns and veining create a focal point in the kitchen. The options are endless.

Honed/Matte Finish is a surface with a low sheen. This type offers a softer and more subtle look while still retaining the character of natural stone. The manufacturing process is stopped before the stone surface becomes shiny, leaving it with a matte or satin-like appearance.

2022 COLOR TRENDS

White, black, blue, and gold are the most popular colors for 2022. This neutral and versatile palette, with varying finishes, offer limitless opportunities when designing your kitchen, bathroom, and other home areas. The durability and longevity of granite offer a lifetime of enjoyment.

Granite countertops are an important element in designing or remodeling your kitchen, bathroom, outdoor kitchen, and other areas. Why not schedule a consultation with the granite experts to discuss what color, style, and finish would best suit your design needs?

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March 30 2022

Kitchen Spotlight: The Golden Brittanicca

admin Backsplash, Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Continental Cares, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Leathered Granite, Marble, Ormond Beach Countertops, Quartz, Quartz Countertops, Quartzite, Residential Countertops, Uncategorized

Design trends can change year to year, but some things never go out of style. For instance, a white kitchen is always a classic look that has the opportunity to make a grand statement. Whether designing from scratch or remodeling your kitchen, an all-white look with a pop of color or metal tone accents is sure to make a statement.

The kitchen is the most utilized area in a home and deserves the most significant degree of function and beauty. If you want to design your kitchen with an elegant modern feel, utilizing high gloss white cabinets, Cambria’s Brittanicca Gold countertop, backsplash, and gold accents are perfect.

Keeping true to the existing look of the home while creating a functional and beautiful kitchen can sometimes seem like a daunting task. At Continental Granite & Cabinets, we work closely with the homeowner from the beginning to the end, guiding and designing the area to reflect their desires and needs.

This contemporary high gloss white kitchen includes several elements with shiny surfaces like the cabinets, white appliances, a stunning Cambria countertop in Brittanicca Gold, and gold accents throughout.

The sleekness of the flat panel door (sometimes called “slab doors”) has been popular in Europe for decades and has become mainstream in the United States. They can be budget-friendly while providing a rich look, especially high gloss. These cabinets offer smooth, clean lines that showcase the high gloss finish.

The gold accents in the hardware, furniture, and lighting provide a high-end design look and beauty to the space. The mix of pulls and knobs creates a different look and functionality. The modern fixtures and hardware of the current day are stunning and offer a subtle design choice with any white kitchen. The gold lighting is an excellent way to tie everything together, creating an Architectural Digest-worthy look.

A combination of white and stainless steel appliances creates a consistent color pallet in the space. It also creates a seamless look from one end of the room to the other, allowing the appliances to feel like a piece of the design puzzle. The commercial-style range with six natural gas burners is aesthetically pleasing and perfect for the chef in the family.

Last but certainly not least, the stunning Cambria Brittanicca Gold countertops and backsplash. This extraordinary element that offers a multi-hued stream of copper-gold, fog, and other earth tones against a white background takes your breath away—the marble-like veining offering a unique design aspect to the space while providing functionality and durability.

FUNCTIONALITY OF DESIGN

The color, style, products, and textures are essential when designing your perfect kitchen, but one must also look at the functionality of the space. This kitchen has a wide range of cabinets, drawers, and counter space. The island allowing for interaction between those cooking in the kitchen and those sitting around the island is perfect for most families. The kitchen is generally the gathering place in any home, and this layout lends itself to togetherness. The island also creates a show-stopping focal point in the room. The upper and lower cabinets provide ample space for tableware, drinkware, pots & pans, pantry items. At the same time, the drawers throughout the area offer great space to store cutlery, placemats, spices, and more. Upgrades such as soft-close doors, drawers, and pull out shelves make the space beautiful and efficient.

BENEFITS OF A BRIGHT WHITE KITCHEN

Long-term value of your kitchen look. Many appreciate this clean and elegant look of a white kitchen.
Creates a very clean look and allows natural light to bounce off.
Utilizing white as your color base for your kitchen is very versatile. Works with any style from traditional to modern chic.
Naturally makes the space feel open and more significant.
Establishes character by utilizing varying textures while keeping the color consistent.

BENEFITS OF USING CAMBRIA QUARTZ – MARBLE ALTERNATIVE COUNTERTOP

Uniqueness of the countertop, no two are alike
Durability
Stain-resistant
Sustainable
Not Porous, easier to keep bacteria-free
Easy to clean

HOW TO CLEAN A CAMBRIA COUNTERTOP

Avoid harsh cleaning tools and products
Use warm non-colored soap and water
Get your magic eraser out
Run your exhaust fan when you cook
Wipe up liquids and spills as soon as possible
Use vinegar to remove stains

Continental Granite & Cabinets is here to help curate the kitchen of your dreams! Contact us today to get started, and visit us on Facebook and Instagram for more inspiration!

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February 9 2022

Quartz vs. Granite: The Solid Difference

admin Backsplash, Bathroom Countertops, Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Continental Cares, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Custom Cabinets, Daytona Beach Cabinets, Daytona Beach Countertops, Daytona Beach Granite Company, Fireplace Wall Stone, Granite, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Leathered Granite, Marble, Ormond Beach Countertops, Outdoor Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz, Quartz Countertops, Quartzite, Residential Countertops

When choosing a product for your countertops in your home and office, there are several options. The two that stand out above the rest are quartz and granite. Choosing either one would be considered a popular choice, but although both are technically stone, there are some key differences between the two.

What is Quartz?

Quartz is the second most abundant mineral on the planet and has been used to design kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas for decades. Quartz is mined and ground into an aggregate fused with resin and other synthetic materials. It is generally made up of ninety percent quartz and ten percent resin. Quartz is considered an engineered stone.

What is Granite?

Granite is a naturally occurring rock formed deep beneath the earth’s crust over millions of years when magma or lava cools and solidifies under heavy pressure. The slow cooling process of intense heat makes a strong and dense material. Granite contains several minerals, of which quartz, feldspar, and mica are the three main components.

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Appearance

No two granite countertops look the same, and this choice has a very organic appearance. Each slab has a slightly different pattern and color, providing the consumer with a limitless selection. Granite is a solid choice if you are looking for something that will stand out and offer a unique element to your kitchen or bathroom. Depending on the size of the area you are placing your granite, you may require slabs to seam together. Due to the variations found in granite, seams may be less visible than other surface options.

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On the other hand, quartz countertops have a more uniform appearance. It has the look of stone but allows consumers to customize their product. Some feel that the uniform appearance lacks the charm of granite, but this option can meet those who would prefer not to see the natural flaws that exist with granite. Quartz countertops also offer a wide range of color options produced with little to no pattern. If your counter area requires a long span, you may need to seam together multiple pieces of quartz. Continental uses a unique Invisa-Seam process. With this process, we are able to minimize unsightly separations in the countertops, giving them a more seamless look.

Durability

Granite countertops are incredibly durable and resistant to heat and other kitchen elements. However, granite is very porous and can absorb stains from oils, wine, and other common kitchen liquids. The porous nature of granite requires sealing the countertop upon installation then periodically sealing on an ongoing basis. You can cut directly on granite without worrying about scratching the surface, but be aware that the stone will dull knives; therefore, always using a cutting board is suggested.

Quartz is harder than granite and also very durable. Quartz is not porous like granite, so not as easily stained and relatively bacteria-free. You will want to be cautious as excessive heat can damage the surface. Be sure to use trivets or hot pads when placing hot items on your countertops. Quartz does not require sealing, thanks to the resins used in the fabrication process.

Maintenance

Both materials are relatively simple to care for. Granite and quartz countertops should be cleaned daily with soap and water or a mild ecological cleaning product. Granite will need to be sealed yearly to resist stains and bacteria. Quartz does not need to be sealed but can sometimes be treated with an antibacterial coating during production.

Sustainability

Both granite and quartz are made of primarily natural materials, granite 100 percent stone, and quartz is roughly around 93 percent stone, with the remainder comprised of color pigments and polymer resin. The production process of natural granite produces fewer carbon emissions than quartz; however, granite requires the product to be quarried, which takes a considerable amount of energy. You must also consider the transportation involved in purchasing a granite slab from an international supplier. You can also look for indigenous stone or consider using a piece of granite that can be cut to fit your needs.

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Cost

Granite and quartz are an investment and can sometimes make up a more significant portion of your budget when designing a kitchen or bathroom. Depending on where you are looking to purchase your granite or quartz, you will find that generally, they are priced similarly. Granite, however, tends to have a broader variation in price. Installation of granite countertop pricing can range from $49 to $175 per square foot. Pricing can depend on the style, edging, and treatments. Quartz countertops range from $65 to $150 per square foot, installed. Once again, pricing varies depending on style, edging, and treatment as well.

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Whether you choose granite or quartz for your countertops, you will undoubtedly create a wow factor in your home or office. Granite and quartz are premium materials that will add value to your home or business.

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Give us a call at 386.586.7059, fill out our contact form, or stop by the showroom at 5950 S. US HWY 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to start the process of bringing your dream space to life. Also, be sure to check us out on social media for more inspiration! We’re on Facebook and Instagram!

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January 5 2022

6 Things to Avoid on Your Granite Countertops

admin Bathroom Countertops, Black Countertops, Cambria Quartz Countertops, Continental Cares, Countertops, Countertops, Cabinets & Backsplash, Daytona Beach Countertops, Granite, Granite Countertops, Home Office Countertops, Kitchen Countertops, Leathered Granite, Ormond Beach Countertops, Outdoor Kitchen Countertops & Cabinets, Pompeii Quartz Countertops, Quartz Countertops, Residential Countertops

Granite countertops are a top choice when designing kitchens and bathrooms. Not only do they offer a stunning one-of-a-kind design component to your space, but granite countertops are also strong, resistant to stains, and somewhat easy to care for. However, there are some essential things to consider.

6 Things to Avoid on Your Granite Countertops

To keep your granite looking beautiful and extend its life, you should take the time to learn how to care for it, including cleaning protocols, hazards, and precautions. Following recommended guidelines, you can be confident that your countertops will remain beautiful for many years to come.

What is Granite?

Granite is a type of stone formed with percentages of quartz, feldspar, and other materials. Granite is tough, stain-resistant, heat resistant, comes in multiple colors, can be designed seamless and, is relatively easy to clean. Nonetheless, with all their beauty and durability, granite countertops are not indestructible and do have a few vulnerabilities that you want to be aware of.

Using knives on granite countertops is more of an issue for the knife than the countertop. Granite is strong and can withstand most everyday wear and tear. While a knife can cause some minor scratches or chips on your countertop, the repeated force against the granite will cause your knives to dull, resulting in the need to be sharpened more often or replaced sooner when you use your countertop as a cutting board. Designing your perfect kitchen has taken time and money; protect your investment in both your counter surface and kitchen knives by using a cutting board.

While working with raw meat or seafood on your countertop won’t damage it, it can cause more serious issues. Preparing raw meat or seafood on your countertop can transfer a bacterial infection to your countertop, causing health issues for you and your family. While a properly sealed granite should keep bacteria from making its way in the tiny spaces within your countertop, are you willing to take that chance? Furthermore, you may be more apt to use harsher chemicals to clean the area you worked with the raw meat and seafood, which could cause damage or dullness to your counter’s sealant. Our suggestion would be to use a raw meat plastic nonporous cutting board that can be thrown in the dishwasher.

Although granite tends to be less reactive to acids, similar to those found in citrus fruits, vinegar, and sodas, these substances can etch the surface of your countertop, damaging the sealant. Damaging the seal can make your countertop more susceptible to staining. Household items such as vinegar, lemons, limes, soda, perfume, lotions, nail polish, and soaps are ones to watch out for, as they can cause some damage. You want to also refrain from using any soaps that contain ammonia. Again, we recommend using a cutting board or coaster on your kitchen granite countertop and baskets, and trays for your bathroom countertop.

The kitchen tends to be a gathering place in most homes. Late-night conversations, family gatherings, entertaining, and homework tend to occur in one of the most used areas of the home. Your granite countertop is formidable and can take much weight, but only when that weight is concentrated in the middle of the countertop. Sitting or standing on the edge of the countertop can cause stress fractures and breaks, leading to you having to replace the entire countertop. Replacing a countertop can be cost-prohibitive for some.

Spills are unavoidable, especially in the kitchen. The spills are not an issue for your granite. It is what you do after a spill occurs that affects your countertop. Leaving a spill can etch your countertop, damage your sealant, and cause a stain. You may also find yourself placing containers like perfumes and hair products on your bathroom countertop. Leaks or drip residue can end up reaching the countertop before you realize it. Be sure to use warm soapy water or cleaners formulated for granite countertops (non-abrasive) whenever you spill or notice a spill—leaving your countertop looking beautiful.

Although granite can tolerate high heat, it is not recommended that you place hot pots and pans directly on your granite countertop. Granite is a natural product and can withstand a brief encounter with a hot surface; however, excessive exposure to heat can weaken the sealant. To prevent heat damage, always have a trivet, heat pad, or potholder when cooking in the kitchen or placing a hot hair tool directly on your countertop.

Granite is a beautiful choice for any area of your home. Using the proper care techniques will undoubtedly extend the life of your countertop. Making sure it remains a key element in the design of your home.

Continental Granite offers the highest quality granite, so your countertops will stand the test of time. In addition, we offer the products to keep them clean and looking their best.

Give us a call at 386.586.7059, fill out our contact form, or stop by the showroom at 5950 S. US HWY 1, Bunnell, FL 32110 to start the process of bringing your granite dreams to life. Also, be sure to check us out on social media for more inspiration! We’re on Facebook and Instagram!