How Can I Decrease the Cost of My Kitchen Renovation?

kitchen-renovationThinking about a new kitchen? If you’ve started doing research, you’ve probably already figured out that it’s not hard to rack up the cost of the project. Read on to learn five things you can do to keep your cost low on your upcoming kitchen renovation.

1. Give DIY A Try

Being able to hire someone to complete your entire kitchen reno may be the most convenient option, but it comes with a price. Keep costs low by taking on some of the work yourself. Demo, painting, and installing new hardware are all things that can easily be learned and done on your own. Of course there are some aspects, like electrical work, that you should leave to the professionals, as mistakes can be dangerous.

2. Check Your Cabinets

Before you rip out your kitchen cabinets, make sure they actually need to be replaced! There are a ton of less expensive options that will still allow you to give your cabinets a new look, for example:

  • Staining
  • Painting
  • Replacing the hardware
  • Replacing only the cabinet doors
    etc.

If your cabinets are in bad shape and in need of replacement, stick to standard cupboard sizes to keep costs down. Opting for custom cabinets can result in significant price increases due to the extra work that goes into the process.

3. Don’t Move the Stove or Sink!

Moving your stove or sink to a new location can be a costly change, as it requires the gas and water hookups to be moved as well. Unless you’re knowledgeable in the area, you should hire a professional to move the connections – which also increases the expenses. If you’re looking for a low cost renovation, it’s best to stick with generally the same layout as you had before.

4. Keep Your Appliances

If your appliances are still in good working condition, keep them! Sometimes all it takes is one replacement part to make your fridge run like new. When your appliances finally start to bite the dust, be sure to purchase energy efficient models to replace them.

5. Track Lighting vs. Recessed Lighting

While aesthetically pleasing, and very popular, recessed lighting can be an expensive addition to your project. Not only do you need to cut numerous holes in your ceiling, but you’ll most likely need to hire an electrician to install the proper wiring. Track lighting is a cost effective alternative that will give you a similar look and feel to recessed lighting.

If your upcoming kitchen renovation includes new countertops, stone flooring or cabinets contact the experts at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz! Our team will help you build the kitchen of your dreams.

4 Factors That Determine The Price of Your New Countertop

New countertops are a great way to freshen up your space and increase the value of your home; however, they can require a significant investment. If you’re starting to collect quotes for a countertop reno read on to learn about a few of the factors that will go into determining the price of your new countertop.

Size & Shape

Naturally, the bigger the countertop, the more it’s going to cost. When shopping for a natural stone countertop, you’ll often be charged for the entire slab (even if you don’t end up using it all). Make sure you talk with your supplier, as they’ll be able to measure your area properly and minimize waste.

The Material

The countertop material you choose will play a huge role in the overall cost. It should come as no surprise that a slab of granite with semiprecious stones in it is going to cost more than laminate. It’s important when looking at the different options to consider what you need and want from your countertop. Some materials will require more maintenance, while others may not give you the look you’re after. When looking at natural stone specifically, the color, country of origin and availability will factor greatly into how much your piece of stone will cost.

Installation

The installation method required will also affect your overall price due to labor costs. Some countertops come as a slab for installation, while other materials need to be put together on-site. Granite comes in a giant, ready to install slab. This keeps install time to a minimum, but because of its size, it requires a more intensive (and expensive) transport process. Tile is affordable and easy to transport, but it requires a professional to place it, so more of your cost will go towards the installation.

Add-Ons

The little extras can often make a large difference in your overall cost. Some of the add-ons you should consider placing in your budget include:

  • Backsplashes
  • Complexity (e.g. sink cut-outs or other custom cuts)
  • Custom edging
  • Custom finishes (e.g. high gloss)

Ready for a New Countertop?

If you’re in the market for a new stone countertop, contact the team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz. We’re happy to answer any questions, and will make sure you end up with a countertop that fits the look and needs of your home.

4 Home Improvements That Will Increase the Value of Your Home

toolbox-home-improvementsWhether you are looking to sell your home, or simply want to leave it in better condition than when you got it, home renovations are a great way to add value to your home! Read on for Stoneworks Granite & Quartz’s recommendation on four home updates you can do that will help increase your property value.

1.Kitchen Refresh

The kitchen is arguably one of the most important rooms in your home. As such, updating your kitchen is a great way to add value to your home. Modern cabinets, new appliances, and new granite countertops are sure to increase your home’s appeal to buyers. The addition of a backsplash is another common design choice that adds texture and dimension to your kitchen. If you want to take it to the next level, you could look at expanding the kitchen, and potentially adding an island. You can’t go wrong with updating your kitchen. Kitchen renovations often offer a large return on investment when it comes time to sell you home.

2. Bathroom Revamp or Addition

Updating the bathroom’s in your home is another great way to increase your home’s overall value. Similar to the kitchen, it’s an important room in a home, which means it usually has a high ROI. Look at updating the shower or tub, the countertop, toilet and perhaps the floor. Storage is important, so get creative and try to utilize any dead space in the room. If you only have one bathroom in your home, you’ll see a huge jump in value if you are able to add in a second bathroom – even a half bath can make a huge difference to future buyers.

3. Update Fixtures

If you are looking to increase the value of your home, but aren’t ready to spend money on a full reno, consider updating the fixtures around your house. A few of the fixtures to look at updating are:

While small, these changes add up quickly and can make a real difference in a home.

4. Curb Appeal

Your house may be beautiful on the inside, but you’re going to have a hard time getting future buyers inside if the outside of your home isn’t well maintained. First impressions matter – so taking some time to enhance your home’s exterior can help you maximize its value. Look at fixing up old or cracked siding, doing paint touch ups, and/or repainting brick walls. Also, never underestimate the power of a freshly painted front door!

Ready to tackle your next home reno? Contact Stoneworks Granite & Quartz for all your natural stone needs. From countertops to backsplashes and flooring, our experts will help you create the home of your dreams.

It’s All in the Details: Countertop Edging Options

kitchen-countertopsYou use your countertop almost every day, so while it may seem trivial to focus on something as small as the edge of your countertop, it can affect the functionality of your kitchen or bathroom – so pay close attention! Read on for Stonework’s guide to the most common countertop edges.

Squared/Straight Edges

Squared or straight countertop edges work great with any style, although they lend themselves especially well to clean, crisp designs. This is the style you’ll see for most standard countertops. Straight edges are a great option if your kitchen or bathroom has a lot going on detail wise in other areas, as it will help bring balance to a room. Don’t worry – straight edges aren’t sharp as their name might imply. The corners of straight or squared edges are rounded slightly to protect the stone from chipping.

Bullnose Edges

Bullnose edges are rounded from top to bottom, making them excellent for households with little children! This type of edge lends itself to more traditional kitchens or bathrooms with it’s smooth lines. A great way to tie in your bullnose edged countertops with your room is to carry the curves throughout your space – perhaps in your cabinets or sink. Keep in mind that the roundness of the bullnose edge can make cleaning slightly more difficult as crumbs and dirt will often stick to the curved edge.

Eased Edges

Eased edges are similar to straight edges, but they have more pronounced rounded corners. Even this small change can make a noticeable difference in your kitchen or bathroom. Eased edges work great in a contemporary design. Many people prefer the eased edge over a straight edge because it gives the counter a thicker look.

Mitered Edges

Mitered edges give a standard-sized countertop a thicker appearance without adding extra weight. This is accomplished by taking a two piece approach in which a standard-sized countertop is wrapped with a thicker frame around the sides. A mitered edge is a great way to make your countertop the focal point of your space, and works well in both traditional and modern designs.

Beveled Edges

Beveled edges are known by their flattened 45 degree angle corners. Beveled edges are very easy to clean and work best with contemporary or modern-styled rooms.

Fancy Edges

There are a number of edge designs that fall under the category of fancy edges. These types of edges are great if you’re looking to create a unique countertop that will draw attention. It’s important to remember that a fancy edge can become overwhelming in a space if it’s overused- so be sure you’re implementing them tactfully.

If you’re unsure what edge to choose for your next countertops, consult with the team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz. Our stone specialists will make sure your new countertop (and all of its edges) compliments your home.

5 Ways To Update Countertops Without Removing Them

kitchen-countertop-updatesRedoing your countertops is no small task. Depending on your situation, a complete redo may not be in the books – but that doesn’t mean you have to live with old, outdated countertops. Whether you are living in a rental or looking for ways to keep your reno costs to a minimum, check out these great alternatives to replacing your countertops.

1. Paint It!

Bet you didn’t know that updating your countertops could be as easy as throwing on a coat of paint! The options when it comes to painting your countertop are almost endless – some of them even mimic natural stone. If you’re considering painting your countertops, here are a couple things to keep in mind:

  • Be sure to prime the entire surface with an acrylic primer…. twice! This will ensure the paint sticks to your counter’s surface.
  • Always use satin or semi-gloss paint & primer. The higher the shine, the more protection it offers against scratches and wear.

2. Add Some Shine

Sometimes painting isn’t necessary, and a glossy coat of polyurethane is enough to spruce up your countertops. When applied to a lightly sanded, laminated countertop, polyurethane adds a deep glossy shine to the surface.

3. Granite Overlays

With this option you aren’t replacing your countertop – you’re simply covering it. Granite overlays are installed directly over your existing countertops and offer a couple benefits:

— Cost efficient
— Messy demos are avoided
— Can be installed in a day

It’s important to note that overlays are usually made out of a combination of stone, so if you are looking for the top quality that granite offers, it’s best to replace the countertops completely.

4. Cover It!

This may sound awfully simple, but if you’re working with a minimal amount of counter space in your rental apartment, sometimes the simplest solution is to cover it up. A large cutting board can offer both beauty and function to your kitchen.

5. Concrete Overlay

Covering your current countertop with a thin layer of concrete is an excellent way to update your kitchen or bathroom without breaking the bank. Concrete is a relatively budget-friendly countertop and is fairly heat and stain resistant when sealed properly. Keep in mind: your concrete countertop will need to be re-sealed on a regular basis to maintain its integrity.

Stoneworks Granite & Quartz can help you with all your natural stone needs. From countertops to backsplashes, our team of experts will make sure you get the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams! Call for your free quote today.

How to Clean Wood Cabinets

kitchen cabinets-kitchen-interiorIf you have wood cabinets in your home, it’s important to know the proper maintenance routine to keep them in tip top condition. Harsh chemicals and cleaners can damage your cabinets, leaving them looking less than ideal. Follow these simple cleaning tips to prolong the life and beauty of your cabinets for years to come.

Regular Care

The most important thing when it comes to the routine cleaning of your wood cabinets is to make sure you wipe up any spills or splatters right when they happen. Messes like these that are left on your cabinets for a prolonged period of time can cause permanent discoloration.

Your average duster will work perfectly for getting off any dust that accumulates, and a solution of warm water and mild detergent is generally all that is required to clean your wood cabinets. Use a soft, lint free cloth and always be sure to dry the cabinets after washing.

Long Term Care

Waxing your wood cabinets is not recommended, as it leaves behind a residue that not only attracts dust, but can sometimes cause your cabinets to appear discolored or streaky.

Once a year, consider polishing your cabinets with a light coat of a high quality, oil-based furniture polish. This will protect your cabinets and make them shine.

What About the Hardware?

Typically a good cleaning with warm water and mild detergent should take care of the majority of grime on your cabinet hardware; however, if you’re dealing with tough grime, it’s best to take the hardware off the cabinet and soak it in warm, soapy water. Make sure you let each piece dry completely before reinstallation.

Products to Avoid

The following products can damage your wood cabinets and should be avoided:

  • Harsh detergents, steel wool or any sort of abrasive cleaners
  • Any products that include bleach or ammonia
  • Silicone-based cleaning products
  • Petroleum based products (paint thinners, nail polish remover, etc.)

Looking for New Cabinets?

Stoneworks Granite & Quartz offers top quality cabinets made right here in Canada and expert installation. If you’re thinking about adding new cabinets to your home, give our team a call!

3 Things to Think About When Choosing a New Countertop

kitchen-countertop-edmontonReplacing the countertops in your home is a great way to revamp any space. The options are almost limitless – so where is one supposed to start?! If you’re considering redoing the countertops in your home, read on for a few things to keep in mind to get the process started.

1. Determine How Much Material You Need

The first thing you should do before choosing an new countertop is determine how big your countertop actually is or will need to be. Once you know the square footage you’re working with, you can select a material that fits within your budget. To find the square footage, measure the length and width of the surface and then multiply them together. Now, this measurement assumes that you’re dealing with a perfect square or rectangle, which is rarely the case. For irregular shapes, add or subtract areas together to get your final square footage. Make sure to allow for some wiggle room in your measurements. You don’t want to be short on material!

2. Choosing the Right Material

There are a few different approaches to this tip. Your new countertop material needs to not only fit with the design of the space, but it also needs to work within your budget and offer you the functionality you’re looking for. With so many options (quartz, granite, marble, and limestone – just to name a few), it’s crucial that you are aware of your options before you buy.

Function – Countertop Maintenance and Durability
Depending on where your new countertop is going to be installed, different materials will suit your needs better. Think about the difference between a bathroom or a kitchen countertop. In a bathroom, you need to make sure your countertop can withstand constant moisture, while in a kitchen, you need something that will be durable and withstand stains and scratches.

Design – Countertop Style and Aesthetics
It’s important to choose a countertop material that matches the look and feel of your space. If you have a more traditional style kitchen, you may want to stay away from more modern options, and vice versa. Countertops are not something that you change regularly, so it’s recommended you opt for a more timeless look. This is especially important if you plan on selling or renting out your home, as you’ll want to stick with a material and color that has a broad appeal.

3. Edging Options

There are a number of different edging options to choose from – each one offers it’s own small addition to the overall look and feel of your space. The most common edge is a squared edge. These are found on standard countertops and look great in traditional or modern spaces. Decorative edges, such as radius, bullnose, bevel and egg, are a great way to add a custom touch; however, decorative edges are generally more expensive and aren’t available on all countertop materials.

If you are interested in redoing your countertops, contact the team at Stoneworks Granite and Quartz. Our selection of natural stone options is sure to impress. Call us for a free quote today!

Soar to New Heights: How High Should My Kitchen Countertop Be?

woman-standing-at-counter-preparing-mealThe industry standard for kitchen countertops is 36 inches, or 3 feet. This is generally the optimal and most ergonomic height; however, just because this is the industry standard, doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone! We come in all shapes and sizes, so it makes sense our countertops should do the same. Varying counter heights in a kitchen can make certain tasks easier, while also adding to the visual appeal of your kitchen. Read on to learn why you should consider adding some levels to your next kitchen countertop.

One Size Does Not Fit All

Does meal prep leave you exhausted? It may have something to do with your countertop height! If your counter is too high for you, you’ll find yourself reaching up and forward to chop and prep, which can lead to shoulder strain. Conversely, if your counters are too low, you’ll constantly be bent over, which can lead to shoulder and back strain. If you’re considering a custom kitchen counter height, keep this measuring tip in mind to find your optimal height based on your size: when measuring, your elbows should be bent at a 45-degree angle when your hands are resting on the countertop.
If you want to reach a broader audience than just yourself, below are some rough estimates to keep in mind regarding counter heights:

  • For those who are below average height, 32” generally works well for a countertop height.
  • For those above average height, 38”-39” is a good range to stick with.
  • For those in wheelchairs, 31”-34”is often ideal (a standard wheelchair is 29”, so we aim for 2”-5” above that).

Design Purposes

Varying your countertop heights is a great way to spruce up the design of your kitchen. Many homeowners will opt for an island with two levels – a taller area for prep work and a lower area for eating.This allows you to eliminate bar stools from the equation, which some people find uncomfortable. Lowering your sink area can create a new focal point that will draw the eye. If you can dream it, it can be done when it comes to varying counter heights in your kitchen.

Will it Hurt My Resale Value?

Custom additions to your home will always have some effect on your home’s resale value — but it’s not always for the worse! Depending on the buyer, they may be more inclined to purchase thanks to your higher countertops that compliments their family’s taller stature. The takeaway is don’t shy away from custom modifications! It’s important to make sure that your home works for you and your family too.

Considering A New Countertop?

If you’re thinking about getting a new stone countertop installed in your home, contact the team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz. Our experts will help you design and install a countertop that is perfectly suited to your family’s needs.

The Pros and Cons of Stone Tile Flooring

stone-flooring-stoneworksNatural stone tile flooring offers a versatile and beautiful look that never goes out of style. Stone tiles are quickly increasing in popularity due to their many benefits. Of course, there are two sides to every story, so read on as we break down the pros and cons of installing natural stone tile flooring in your home!

The Pros

It’s Durable
Stone flooring, if properly maintained, will last you for many years. Stone floor tiles are scratch resistant, and offer easy clean up of spills. Soap and water are usually all it takes to clean up any mess! It’s a reliable choice for areas that see a lot of dirt or traffic.

It Comes in a Variety of Designs
Natural stone floors are elegant and timeless. No matter what your home design or décor is, you will be able to find a stone that matches it beautifully thanks to the wide array of colors and patterns available.

It Can Increase the Value of your Home
Adding natural stone flooring is a great way to increase the value of your home. From a home buyer’s perspective, they will appreciate the durability and elegance that is associated with natural stone.

The Cons

It Does Require Regular Maintenance
Natural stone does require regular cleaning and re-sealing in order to maintain it’s shine and durability. The good news is that cleaning usually only requires a little bit of soap and water! Chat with your flooring provider about how often you should be re-sealing your floor and grout, as every stone is a little bit different!

You Can’t Guarantee Uniformity
This can be seen as a pro or a con depending on what you are looking for. Because natural stone tiles are, well… natural… there will never be two tiles that look exactly alike. While changes are generally minor (we’re not going to sell you two different colored tiles), you should expect to see some natural imperfections.

It’s Heavy!
It’s no surprise that stone is heavy. Because of the extra weight, it is sometimes necessary to reinforce your current subfloor. Obviously this will increase the time and cost of your project, so chat with your flooring provider to determine if you need to take this step!

Want to Learn More?

If you are considering installing stone tile flooring in your home, contact the experts at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz. Our team will make sure you get the floor of your dreams!

How to Care for A Stone Floor

man installing stone tilesCaring for and maintaining a natural stone floor is different from other flooring options. To ensure that your natural stone floor provides you with a lifetime of beauty and value, a proper maintenance program is necessary. The good news is that stone floor maintenance isn’t tough! In fact, you probably have all the materials you need sitting in your cleaning closet at home. Read on to learn the basics of caring for your stone floor.

Keep Dirt and Dust to a Minimum

Sand, dust, and dirt are the three silent killers when it comes to a natural stone floor. If left on the floor, foot traffic will grind dirt into the stone, wearing it down and dulling the finish. To keep dirt and dust to a minimum, it’s important to regularly sweep or dry mop your floor. You can vacuum a stone floor, but make sure that your vacuum is hard floor friendly. If it has a beater bar, you run the risk of scratching up the stone. Another great way to stop dirt from entering your home is to use floor mats at all exterior entrances. The mat’s will collect the majority of the loose dirt before it has a chance to reach your floor, and they are simple to clean!

Don’t Let Spills Sit

If you notice a spill, wipe it up as quickly as possible. The longer a spill is left on your floor, the more likely it is to permanently stain. Scheduling a weekly damp mopping of your floor is a great way to catch any spills that you might have missed day to day.

Stay Neutral

When choosing a cleaner for your natural stone floor, opt for one that has a neutral pH and isn’t abrasive. Abrasive cleaners will scratch and dull the surface of your floor. Acidic cleaners, like those containing lemon juice or vinegar, should also be avoided as the acid can harm the sealant and grout. When washing your floor, be sure to rinse it thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a soft cloth. Leftover cleaner or soap can buildup, causing unsightly streaks and dullness.

Questions about Your Natural Stone Floor?

Stoneworks Granite & Quartz are the experts when it comes to all types of natural stone. Every stone is different, so it’s generally best to consult a pro. If you have questions about your stone floor, or are considering installing a new stone floor in your home, give our team a call!