Replacing 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!

The 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.

Natural 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!

Caring 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!

You’re going to be in your bathroom every single day, so it’s important that it you enjoy spending time in there! Your bathroom should be a place of comfort; it should act as both a place to relax after a hard day and get ready efficiently during a hectic morning. Read on for 5 signs that your bathroom may be in need of an update.

1. Outdated Fixtures and Poor Lighting

Old fixtures can make your bathroom feel dull and out of touch. Something as simple as updating the faucet and light fixture can add new flare to your bathroom that will leave you appreciating it in a whole new way. It’s important to have good lighting in your bathroom. Look for a light fixture that is the perfect balance between too bright and too dim. Remember: brighter isn’t always better! You won’t be able to see properly if you’re being blinded by lights overhead.

2. Mold and Mildew

Older bathrooms can make the battle against told and mildew almost impossible at times. Dated countertops, floors, and showers can all make cleaning more difficult, giving mold and mildew the perfect environment to grow in. Mold and mildew are not only unsightly, they are unhealthy! Certain types of mold can cause allergic reactions and in some circumstances, serious health problems. These substances also create that “bathroom” smell that is impossible to get rid off. Bathroom materials — from tiles to toilets — are now built with cleanliness and mold prevention in mind, saving you time and stress.

3. Discolouration

Over time, everything in your bathroom will start to fade and lose its colour. This discolouration is generally caused by the excess moisture that is unavoidable in a bathroom. If you’re finding that your whites are now yellow, or your blacks have lost their shine, it may be time for an update. When painting or replacing other discoloured parts of your bathroom, keep in mind that a neutral palette will offer ageless beauty to your space.

4. Poor Layout

Back in the 20’s and 30’s, plumbing was still a new phenomenon in homes. This led to bathrooms having some pretty odd arrangements, such as having the toilet directly next to the bathtub. If your bathroom layout isn’t practical, it may be time to renovate. Bathroom layout needs also change over time. As you age, you may find that your porcelain soaker tub is too slippery and difficult to get into, and may opt for a tiled walk in shower instead.

5. Leaks

There are two kinds of leaks: small ones and big ones. If you have a big leak, you probably aren’t reading this article because you are too busy making sure your bathroom doesn’t flood! Small leaks usually result in brown water stains and can be pretty annoying if the leak involves a faucet that won’t stop dripping! When updating your leaky fixtures, look for models that conserve water — your wallet will thank you!

Ready To Reno?

Your bathroom is something you have to live with every day, so make sure it’s a space that is keeping you and your family happy and healthy. If you’ve decided that your washroom has passed its expiration date, contact the team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz. Our team can show you all the options available when it comes to using stone tiles in your bathroom.

Walking into a tile store can be a bit overwhelming at times. With so many options and price points, it can be a struggle to know what’s best for your floor! Any type of stone tile is a great option for flooring because it is extremely durable and will add re-sell value to any home. Read on as Stoneworks Granite & Quartz dives into the different types of stone tile flooring that are on the market today.

Slate

Slate is a metamorphic rock, which means that it is the result of a transformation of a pre-existing rock. It was a rich, warm color palette that includes copper, navy, sage, tan and black to name a few. Thanks to this tile’s density, it’s extremely durable – making it a great choice for high traffic areas both indoors and outdoors.

Travertine

Travertine is a type of limestone that exists in white, tan and cream-colored varieties. It is a sedimentary stone, which, if you’ll recall that geology course you took, refers to stones that are formed by deposits of minerals and other materials like sediment. Upon formation, those minerals and sediment are mixed around, giving each chunk of Travertine a unique pattern. Travertine is best used in light to medium traffic areas, as it is a softer stone.

Marble

Marble is another metamorphic rock that is composed of recrystallized carbonate minerals. Due to the variety of minerals, it comes in almost any color you can think of – making it a great option if you’re looking for a specific color or tone. Because marble is a more porous stone, if you choose to use it as flooring for your kitchen or bathroom, it’s important that you maintain it properly to prevent stains or other damage.

Onyx

Onyx is a beautiful stone that is known for its transparent quality. Its smooth texture offers an elegant, modern look to any room. You can find onyx in a variety of earthy tones, from cream all the way to black. Being a softer stone, it’s best suited for indoor floors that see medium to light traffic.

Granite

Granite is an igneous rock, which means it was created as a result of lava or magma cooling and solidifying. It is a very dense stone, and is known for its speckled nature and unique veining. It comes in a variety of colors and once polished, is completely scratch proof. Granite is an excellent choice for flooring in kitchens or other high traffic areas.

If you’re considering installing a tile floor, contact the team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz. Our highly trained staff can help you to design and create your dream floor!

The kitchen is a place where friends and family gather. You spend a lot of time in your kitchen, so it’s important that the space not only nice to look at, but functional as well. Check out the points below and see if your kitchen applies. If it does, it may be time for you to start considering an update!

1. Not Enough Storage

If you’re experiencing an avalanche of food or Tupperware anytime you open your cabinets, it’s time to revamp your kitchen. Having enough cabinet space to store food and other kitchen items is an important part of keeping your kitchen looking clean and un-cluttered. Kitchen cabinets now a days come in all sorts of styles, some of which have storage solutions built right in! Adding new cabinets will give you a more efficient, functional kitchen.

2. Your Appliances Are Out of Date

Old appliances don’t just look unsightly, they also waste money and energy! New appliances are incredibly efficient and will help to save you money on your power and water bill each month. Replacing old appliances will give your kitchen a fresh, modern look while saving you money in the long run. Now that’s a win win deal.

3. Poor Lighting

Everyone knows that it’s important to be able to see what you’re doing… especially when there are hot stoves and sharp knives involved! If your finding that certain spots of your kitchen never get any light, it’s time to invest in some new light fixtures. A well lit kitchen will not only make cooking easier, it will make it safer as well!

4. Outdated Finishings

Kitchen cabinet styles often signify the era in which a home was built. In the 1980’s oak or oak veneer and white laminate cabinets with oak trim reigned. Finishes wear down, as do hinges and hardware. If cabinets are in good shape, paint can do wonders – just be sure to consult an expert first. Not all cabinets/cabinet species should be painted.

But if doors are warped, shelves are bowed, glides are off drawers, and cupboards near the stovetop are soiled with grease and beyond repair, it may be time to remodel.
Flooring and colors also change. The pinkish ceramic tiles of the 80s and anything mauve may be a turn-off to buyers and may require updating if you are trying to sell a home today.

Counter surfaces have changed dramatically. In the 80’s, white or off-white laminate counters prevailed along with ceramic tile counters set with bull-nose wood edges. Today, quartz and granite countertops provide easy to maintain work surfaces. Stone counters add beauty to a kitchen and are more durable than tile and laminate products.

Flooring is no longer the standard linoleum, which was susceptible to stains, wear and tear or unforgiving ceramic tile. Tile flooring is prevalent in many homes today because of the advances in finishes that them both attractive and durable.

5. Poor layout/too small

Adequate space: Are you satisfied with the amount of counter space, cabinet space and floor space in your kitchen? The position of your refrigerator or the shape of your counter may be taking away useful work space. When replacing a countertop or changing the shape of your kitchen, keep in mind that a total of 158 inches of countertop frontage, 24 inches deep with at least 15 inches of clearance above, is needed to accommodate all uses, including landing area, preparation and work area and storage.

Traffic flow: If there’s more than one cook in your household, consider making more room around the main work space. If you enjoy entertaining, you may want an open plan kitchen that allows for more social interaction between the kitchen and other rooms. The width of a walkway should be at least 3 feet, and the width of a work aisle should be at least 42 inches for one cook and at least 4 feet for multiple cooks.

Do any or all of these apply to you? Contact Stoneworks Granite & Quartz today to get started on your new countertop & cabinets!

Let’s face it – life gets messy sometimes! Whether its grease in the kitchen or toothpaste stains in the bathroom, it can be difficult to keep your tiled backsplash looking shiny and new. The good news is that most stains and messes can be taken care of using ingredients you have laying around the house! Read on for Stoneworks Granite & Quartz’s sure fire way to clean your backsplash.

Catch it Quick

In an ideal world, you would wipe up stains and messes right as they happen. Simply put, the longer the mess sits, the harder it’ll be to get off later. We know that this isn’t always feasible — especially when you’re trying to get food on the table for your busy family! However, if you aim to at least give your backsplash a quick wipe when you notice a splatter, you’ll save yourself some elbow grease down the road!

The Quick & Easy Clean

Most messes can be taken care of with warm, soapy water. Start by softening the grease or grime with warm water, and then use a sponge soaked in soapy water to buff away the dirt. Finish it off by drying the tiles with a dishtowel to remove any leftover residue that could attract dirt or dust.

The Tougher Stains

If soapy water doesn’t do the trick, you can try either a baking soda or white vinegar spot treatment. Combine equal parts warm water and baking soda and stir it into a paste. Apply the paste to the stubborn stain, and let it dry. Once dry, you can remove it with a soft dishcloth.

White vinegar is great for removing grease splatter and stains – simply combine equal parts warm water and vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the grease, and let it sit for approx. five minutes. Wipe off with a clean, damp cloth.
NOTE: no matter what you are using to clean your backsplash, make sure to do a spot test in an inconspicuous area first!

Cleaning Grout

Whatever cleaning solution you choose, you’ll want to make sure that is safe for both tiles and grout. Because of the textured nature of grout, it tends to hold onto messes. A great way to clean grout is by using the same cleaning solutions mentioned above, and applying it with a toothbrush. That will give you the extra scrubbing power necessary to get in all the nooks and crannies.

Stoneworks Loves to Help

While we can’t come out to your house and clean your backsplash for you, we can sure give you our best cleaning advice that we’ve collected from our customers over the years. The team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz is always ready to answer any questions you might have about your backsplash. Give us a call today!

Tile floors have remained a popular choice for homeowners because they are durable, low maintenance and come in a wide array of styles. Once tiles are glazed, they have a protective barrier that keeps dirt, water, and stains from penetrating the tile. This makes tile a great choice for high traffic areas in your home! While tile floors are easy to maintain, it’s still important to know how to clean them properly to keep them looking like new for years.

1. Don’t Let Stains Get Too Comfortable

Spills and messes happen, and while we know that it can be difficult to clean up messes right when they happen, the longer that mess sits there the harder it will be to remove later! So the next time your dog tracks in some mud on the floor, don’t wait until your next floor washing to clean it up — wipe it up right away! This will help decrease the dirt buildup on your floor, which we will talk about more in our next tip!

2. Regular Cleanings Keep Grimy Buildup at Bay

Over time, your floor accumulates dirt and dust. While this is usually invisible to the eye in the early stages, given enough time your floor will start to look dull and dingy. By regularly washing your tile floor — even with just warm water, you’ll remove any dirt or grime before it has a chance embed itself in the tile or grout.

How Often Should I Clean My Tile Floor?

You should aim to sweep your floor with a fluffy dust mop or vacuum every couple of days to remove any loose dust and dirt. NOTE: Don’t use a straw broom, as it can scratch the tile. Once a week, mop your floor with warm water to keep your tiles looking shiny and new!

3. Do A Deep Clean

If you’re finding that your tiles are looking dull or gross no matter how often you mop, it might be time for a deep clean! Adding some white vinegar or dish soap to your cleaning solution the next time you mop is a great way to remove built up grease.

4. Don’t Forget About The Grout

Dirty or discoloured grout can really detract from your floors overall appearance. To clean grout, mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and water (you can also try baking soda and water) and work it into a paste. Apply the paste to the grout using a toothbrush and let it sit until it’s dry. After it’s dry, wash the paste out with warm water. Another important step to maintaining your tile’s grout is sealing it. Your tile manufacturer can recommend a sealing schedule, though it is usually 1-2 times per year. Sealant keeps dirt and water out of your grout, thereby helping it to keep is colour and shine.

Questions? Call Stoneworks Granite & Quartz
If you have questions about your tile floor, or are unsure about what cleaning solutions are safe to use, give the team at Stoneworks Granite & Quartz a call!

A backsplash is a great way to add personality to a bathroom or kitchen. Simple or complex, a backsplash gives the room a cohesive flow. Read on for some tips from Stoneworks Granite & Quartz on choosing the right tile for your new backsplash.

Practical Considerations

Wear and Tear: Certain types of tiles require more upkeep than others. For example, natural stone, while visually striking, requires regular sealing. You also need to consider life span. Some tiles will hold up to wear and tear longer than others; however, those tiles are generally more expensive to purchase up front.

Ability to Clean: If your tiles are going to be in a high traffic, messy area like the back of the stove, you’ll want to consider how easy they are to clean. Having a textured backsplash can make cleaning strenuous, as grease will find its way into every nook and cranny. Ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles all offer quick and easy clean up, and are less prone to stains.

Invest in Good Grout: Grout is the backbone of your backsplash, so make sure you account for this cost in your budget. Epoxy grout, while more expensive, is extremely durable and will keep your backsplash looking great for years.

Cost: A backsplash is as expensive as you make it. Tile prices can run from $2 a sq. ft to $100/ sq. ft. To find out how much material you’ll need, simply multiply the width by the height of the wall to determine the square footage. Tip: always add on an extra 10% to account for any mistakes when installing.

Design Considerations

What’s your style? The options are endless when it comes to designing your backsplash. Subway tiles offer a class look and are extremely popular. If you have a more contemporary taste, you could try placing the tiles vertically instead of horizontally. Stacked tiles offer an organic look that is becoming increasingly popular. No design is off limits! The best advice we can give is that whether your backsplash is big, small, simple or complex, make sure it compliments your own style (after all, you’re the one who is going to have to see it every day).

Size of the Room: If your working with a small space, a mirrored backsplash can make the room feel brighter and larger. Another trick to make a room feel larger is to extend the backsplash tiling to wrap around the room. Large rooms, or rooms with lots of windows may want to stick with a more basic backsplash, as a complex design can leave a large room feeling busy or disjointed.

Focal Points: If you’re planning on creating a design in your backsplash, find the focal points of the room. For example, in a kitchen the focal points are above the range and above the sink. Concentrating designs to these places will help to make the room ‘pop’.

Ready to Get Started?

If you are planning on installing a new backsplash and are looking for some advice, give Stoneworks Granite & Quartz a call! Our team can help you with every aspect, from design to installation.