How Boris Found the Perfect Kitchen Countertop

If you're planning a kitchen remodel you may have granite countertops on your wish list, but believe it or not, there are other options too.

Thanks to the popularity of those cable remodeling shows, everyone knows that granite countertops are the only choice for getting the best results in your kitchen, right? Even though granite is quite popular, there are actually other materials that you can use in your kitchen that will also give it a luxurious look and increase that "wow factor."

While shopping for my countertops, the experts at Affordable Granite and Cabinetry shared some very helpful facts that may assist you with choosing what stone to use in your kitchen.

All-natural stones such as granite, marble and quartzite have a heat tolerance of nearly 800 degrees Fahrenheit. That means you can safely take those pans out of the oven and put them right on the counter without worrying. Engineered quartz, on the other hand, varies by brand. The heat tolerance of this material can be anywhere from 350 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Some people believe that some materials are more durable than others. In fact, all stones, both engineered and natural, are now repairable.

As for maintenance, if you're buying your stone from a trusted installer, your granite should be properly treated on installation. Affordable Granite and Cabinetry treats all of their natural stone with a 15-year sealer. Like any other material, the only requirement to maintain its look is simple cleaning. Quartz, on the other hand, is made with up to 93% natural quartz through a process of compression making it virtually non-porous; therefore, it doesn’t require a sealer at all.

For years, homeowners have been scared away by "scary white stones" like marbles, quartzites, and dolomites. But these classic looking materials are back in a big way. Many people have rediscovered the natural beauty of these stones, adding yet another option to your kitchen remodel. At the end of the day, most people either lean toward the look of natural stone or the look of engineered quartz. The final decision comes down to taste.

With some guidance, Affordable Granite and Cabinetry was able to help me find the perfect slab with just the right color highlights to achieve the kitchen of my dreams. There's no doubt that they'll be able to help you design your kitchen too.