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Durable Counter Tops

Durable & Long-Lasting Countertops

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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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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.

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Kitchen Spotlight: The Golden Brittanicca

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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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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. 

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Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

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‘Tis the season of cooler weather, multi-generational meals, seasonal get-togethers, making memories, and of course…..holiday baking. Whether you’re masterly re-creating gramma’s butter tarts with your daughter, baking a few dozen cookies for your annual holiday cookie exchange, or kneading the dough for the homemade bread that you put in your Christmas morning casserole, the right countertop can be a great space to help you feel like the master chef that you are.

Holiday baking is a time-honored tradition in many homes, and for some, a family affair. Having the ability to utilize your countertop area in its entirety can make things just a tad easier and allow for everyone to feel a part of the process.

 

Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

 

When choosing a counter surface, you have some options, but if you are looking for a pastry-friendly work area, Continental Granite and Cabinets suggest quartz as the choice.

Quartz is not only beautiful but versatile and durable. Quartz is a man-made surface that is removed from granite rock, crushed, and combined with resins and pigments. It is more accurately referred to as engineered stone as it is not a true solid surface. The final product is 90-95 percent quartz and 5-10 percent additives.

Quartz countertops are green and sustainable. The 90 percent of stone materials that form the base of quartz are all generally waste-by-products of other manufacturing or quarrying processes. Meaning that no natural stone was quarried solely for use in a quartz countertop. In addition, the resins that make up the additives have become more natural and less synthetic over the last few years.

A little bit of trivia about Quartz…our industry partner Cambria, one of the largest suppliers of quartz, is also a cheese producer. This family-owned business began in the 1930s as a dairy business. In 2000, they expanded their business portfolio to include quartz processing.

There are a number of benefits that working with quartz brings to the baker and culinary geniuses in the kitchen.

IT’S ALL ABOUT CHILLIN’

Very much like a natural stone countertop, quartz keeps things cool. Quartz is also one of the hardest minerals on the planet which allows you to be able to roll out your dough easily. You will want to sprinkle the countertop with flour or powdered sugar so that the dough does not stick to the counter. The coolness of the stone also ensures that the butter does not melt into the dough so that your pie crust will be crispy and flakey.

Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

 

NOOKS & CRANNIES
Pores are virtually non-existent, which not only creates a lovely esthetic look but makes cleanup super easy. Flour and other ingredients won’t seep into crevices and pores, ensuring that you won’t have to dread the worst part of baking, clean up.

Quartz is also impenetrable to spills, which is great if you work with liquids like lemon or wine containing acid.

Unlike other countertop surfaces that require a chemical seal, quartz does not. That is one of the reasons quartz is a top choice for bakers. This allows you to create a chemical-free space for your family.

A quartz countertop is tough and heat resistant, making it durable against many issues that come up in the kitchen. We, however, don’t recommend placing a hot cookie sheet or using your counter as a cutting board. Always use a hot plate or cutting board.

Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

 

Cleaning your quartz countertop is easy-peasy. You can use dish soap and water and a microfiber cloth. Stay away from any harsh cleaners to keep the surface chemical-free.

THE LOOK
For many, one of the top benefits of using quartz in their home is its natural luster. It has a three-dimensional appearance, very much like a natural stone.

Quartz countertops come in a wide variety of colors. The most popular colors are neutrals in white, black, grey, beige, and brown. Quartz can also be found in just about every shade of the rainbow.

Your kitchen is the space in your home where you create memories. Where you make your family dinner, pack lunches, and prepare for all your holiday feasts. Using quartz as your counter surface allows you to do all of that and your kitchen looks beautiful at the same time.

Contact us here, for more information on quartz, natural stone, and all of your residential and commercial cabinet needs. Be sure to also check us out on social media for more inspiration! You can find us on Facebook and Instagram!

Quartz Kitchen Countertops & Holiday Baking 101: What to Know When It’s Time To Roll-Out Those Holiday Treats.

 

WAIT! Before you go… what are the holidays without sharing one of our own and favorite recipes!? Check it out! Praline Crack… topped with sliced almonds! We make this one every year and look forward to sharing it with our friends and family.


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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 believe the relationship we form 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.

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Granite Vs. Quartz

Back To The Basics.

When choosing great looking, durable countertops, both quartz and granite are an excellent choice. However, there are some fundamental differences.

Granite is a natural stone formed during the cooling of magma. It’s mined from quarries all around the world, cut down to a manageable size, and then polished to a fine finish.

Quartz is slightly different in that it is not 100 percent natural. Instead, countertops are manufactured using ground natural quartz and crushed rocks – bound together with resin.

Now that you know the basics, let’s see how they compare against each other.

1: Appearance

Granite has a very natural appearance and can be found in many colors. Every granite slab is slightly different in mineral pattern and color, meaning that your countertop will be unique.

Quartz countertops, as an engineered product, are more uniform in appearance, though many colors and unique patterns are available, including forms that do and do not resemble granite.

The choice here is a matter of personal preference. Whether you’re looking for a subtle compliment to your kitchen or a standout slab with unique mineral inclusions, there is an almost limitless selection to choose from and we’re here to walk you through it all.

2: Price

No question about it: both granite and quartz are premium countertop choices. With an array of choices at your fingertips, pricing can vary greatly.  

The best thing you can do is see it in person! Our team would love to walk you through our showroom and provide you with multiple options to fit your budget and style.

3: Maintenance & Durability

Granite is a relatively porous stone that is sealed upon installation. Wipe up spilled liquids quickly because if left, the porous stone will absorb them, and they could cause staining and bacterial growth. Granite countertops should be cleaned daily with soap and water or a mild household cleaner.

Quartz is actually harder than granite and thus, more durable. In fact, quartz is nearly indestructible, and because it isn’t porous like granite, it’s easy to keep your countertops relatively bacteria-free. Be careful with cooking pans though: Quartz can be damaged by excessive heat, so use heating pads at all times.

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