Marble and Granite, Inc introduces NeoLith by TheSize
NeoLith by TheSize is one of those products that instantly amazes you. It is incredibly durable and looks fabulous, keeping its luster regardless of use. It is transportable and can be recycled without harmful emissions. It can be cut to size and glued a the surface and used for just about anything. It resists UV rays of the great outdoors and is also excellent for any room, new or remodeled. It has been in production since 2009 and is catching on as the surface to use.
The use of NeoLith by TheSize offers great advantages. This product has no pores. Therefore, it cannot absorb stains or odors. When something has spilled on the surface and abrasive cleaners are employed, the stains are removed with no adverse effect to the NeoLith. There is no ability for and bacteria, mold or fungus to anchor on its surface. Because it is very thin, it is lightweight and easy to transport, even though it is amazingly durable. For instance, it will not burn easily and it is very resistant to scratches. It is available in a plethora of colors, thereby making it easy to fit your color scheme.
The list is too great to name all of its uses. NeoLith by TheSize is amazingly thin and yet incredibly durable. In fact, the guarantee on this material is well over a decade. However, to give an idea, it can be used for countertops, walls inside and out and floors. This can be ordered in slabs or tile form of various sizes. Its depth is available from 3mm to 8mm, making a beautiful final product. When ordering from a sample, you will be pleased, for the process of manufacturing gives for a uniform result.
The reason it is so durable and lasts for such a long time while still looking great and feeling smooth, NeoLith by TheSize is made from pure sand or clay into a ceramic. The raw clay is molded and glazed. This unique glaze is what makes it so very resistant to scratches and stains. This is then placed into a kiln and baked. When fully fused, it is removed from the kiln with a slow decrease in temperatures.
Once you see it for yourself, you will wish to use it in your home and for your places of business. NeoLith by TheSize is an excellent product in any setting. You can see the line of Neolith colors that Marble and Granite stocks by clicking
here.
Those who once thought granite countertops were just a trend better think again. Harris Interactive conducted a new survey commissioned by the Marble Institute of America to find out how many American homeowners still prefer granite countertops to other countertop surfaces. Out of the 1,588 American homeowners surveyed last month, 76% of them agreed with the statement "Nothing beats the beauty and value of granite countertops." This was the second survey Harris Interactive has conducted like this, with the first one in 2008 resulting in 55% of consumers preferring granite countertops. Here are the results of the January 2012 survey that confirms granite as the No.1 choice for countertop surfaces in 2012 despite economic and industry trends in the last few years.
• 75% of homeowners who intend to remodel their kitchen in the next couple of years plan on getting granite countertops.
• 89% of homeowners agreed granite countertops are safe.
• 91% of homeowners agreed granite countertops are durable.
• 93% of homeowners agreed granite countertops are beautiful.
As you can see, homeowners overwhelmingly recognize that granite countertops enhance the value of your home more than any other surface. Not only do homeowners agree granite countertops are a safe investment with their high resale value, but they prefer the look of granite countertops as well. As Marble Institute of America CEO states in an article, "Independent consumer surveys have consistently shown that Americans love the natural look of granite and value it above other countertop products."
Read more about the Harris Interactive survey commissioned by the Marble Institute of American online.
Some would say that they are just countertops. But a recent article from the Washington Post goes beyond the surface to find out just what makes granite countertops so popular. As the article chronicles, granite countertops can be somewhat of a prized possession.
It looks - it looks like granite. It looks like lovely granite, but granite is in the eye of the beholder, and the unique characteristics of one's own granite are not immediately apparent to a newcomer. One's own granite sings a special siren song. All around the country, couples leave parties and get in their cars and say to each other, "I'm so glad we went with Santa Cecilia instead of Kashmir Gold."
But it's not just about aesthetics, a homeowner assured Post writer Monica Hesse. The low maintenance and durability of granite countertops allows homeowners to truly enjoy their kitchen without stress, allowing them to focus on their family, friends and the moment rather than the mess
Read more about why granite remains the top choice for kitchen countertops in the Washington Post article online.
Photo by Michael Partenio via New England Home Magazine
A good architect, contractor or designer knows that working with clients to achieve the highest success in a project is just as much an art as the actual work is. Clients can become overwhelmed by the available options. This is especially true when it comes to selecting granite for countertops. As one of the most popular and widely used surfaces on the market, granite countertops now come in endless sizes, colors and finishes. From an article in
Remodeling Magazine, here are some valuable tips for helping clients choose the granite countertops that will optimize beauty and home value.
- Gain an understanding of the client's lifestyle and daily routine.
- Inquire whether the client prefers darker materials or lighter materials.
- Ask your client whether they have seen granite countertops they particularly liked a friend or family member's home.
- Before going to a showroom, show the client samples of granite slabs on the computer.
- Show them not only how different finishes look but how they react to cleaning and spills as well
- Ask the client where they prefer seems to go and then advise them where they can be placed to be most hidden
Architects, contractors and designers can find thousands of samples of granite slabs on the
Marble & Granite website. Then when you are ready to bring your client to a showroom, Marble and Granite has large, well-lit and dry showrooms that are comfortable and make it easy to find exactly what you are looking for. Our
showrooms are located in Westwood, Massachusetts and Milford, Connecticut.
While marble is known to be a natural stone surface that requires higher maintenance, it is still one of the most coveted surfaces to have in the home. Since some homeowners are hesitant to choose marble countertops because of its susceptibility to stains, they are finding alternate ways to incorporate marble in the kitchen. A prominent trend in kitchen design that has emerged in the last couple of years is the marble backsplash. Designers and homeowners are turning to carrera marble and other white marbles to achieve eye-catching, dramatic backsplash. Here are some of the styles and applications in which this marble backsplash trend is appearing in the design industry.
Extended counter-to-ceiling marble backsplash
[Photo By John Lum Architecture, Inc. AIA via Houzz]
Large, rectangular marble tile backsplash
[Photo By Shannon Cabinetry via Houzz]
Thin, rectangular marble tile backsplash
[Photo By Fiorella Design via Houzz]
Tile marble backsplash paired with granite countertops
[Photo By Shannon Cabinetry via Houzz ]
Marble backsplash and countertops paired with stainless steel
[Photo By Incorporated via Houzz]
Architects, contractors, designers and homeowners looking for the largest selection of marble slabs in New England can http://www.marbleandgranite.com/stone-slabs/stone-slabs/marble-slabs?color=3. Once you find something you like, come by one of our showrooms in Westwood, Massachusetts or Milford, Connecticut to pick out your slab in person. For questions please call 877-39-STONE.
In the post below, we discussed how the type of edges chosen for granite countertops can enhance their beauty as a focal point in any style kitchen. So now we would like to explore some of the possibilities when it comes to choosing edges on granite countertops. The slightest variance in the shape of the edge can significantly affect the look of the stone. The edges that will optimize the form and function of granite countertops will depend on the size, style and layout of the kitchen. From the most common to the more customized, here are just some of the edging options that architects, contractors, designers and homeowners have to choose from.
Square edge with standard slab thickness
[Photo By Rebekah Zaveloff via Houzz]
Square, mitered edge with extra thick slab
[Photo By J. Weiss Design via Houzz]
Square, mitered and eased edge
[Photo By Andre Rothblatt Architecture via Houzz]
Square with a waterfall edge
[Photo By Chelsea Atelier Architect, P.C. via Houzz]
Rounded bullnose edge
[Photo By Fiorella Design via Houzz]
Ogee, square edge
[Photo By Rebekah Zaveloff via Houzz]
Marine edge
[Photo By Rebekah Zaveloff via Houzz]
Browse Marble & Granite's selection of granite stone slabs, and then use our handy locator to find a reliable, high-quality fabricator near you who make your vision for new granite countertops a reality!
Every design requires a focal point. It is the element that draws the eye and directs it where to go. It helps create contrast and movement for a design that is cohesive and interesting. A timeless technique in kitchen designing is to create a focal point out of the island, particularly through countertop surfaces. Because of their unique, unrivaled beauty, granite reigns as a top choice for achieving countertops that make bold statements. Whether its through color, movement or shape, there are many different ways that granite countertops can be used to create fantastic focal points in a kitchen design. The sensational movement and extensive color variations of these granite countertops creates an bold, eye-catching focal point for the contemporary kitchen design.
The distinct dual color contrast within these granite countertops makes a strong, sophisticated statement in this traditional style kitchen.
Even the edges of granite countertop can establish the island as the focal point like in this stunningly shaped granite island.
To explore possible focal points for your own kitchen design project, browse the wide array of colors and movement in our granite slab selection on the Marble & Granite products page of our website. Feel free to call us with any and all questions at 877-39-STONE, or visit us at one of our showrooms.
Photo Credits:
1) By Rule4 Building Group via Houzz
2) By KannCept Design Inc., via Houzz
3) By Artistic Stone Design via Houzz
Keeping your granite countertops clean is crucial to protecting your stone investment. Although granite is the most durable stone surface in the industry, it can still be vulnerable to scratches or stains if it is not properly maintained and cared for. To help you keep your granite countertops looking new for years to come, here are five easy tips for cleaning granite countertops straight from the stone experts here at Marble and Granite.
-
Dust countertops frequently to prevent particles from scratching granite surfaces.
-
Be cautious with foods and drinks that contain acids as well as toiletries such as perfume, toothpaste and mouthwash as these can cause the granite sealer to be compromised.
-
Clean countertops every day with a neutral pH-balanced cleaner, specifically formulated for granite, to remove residues from everyday cooking, eating and use.
-
Blot up spills immediately with a dry, white cloth, turning the cloth frequently; then, spray the area with stone cleaner and wipe away with another clean cloth.
-
To remove oil stains and other deep stains, use an oil stain remover or poultice, specifically formulated for granite, and follow product directions carefully.
Marble and Granite offers the complete line of StoneTech products for protecting and cleaning granite countertops including the Revitalizer Cleaner and Protector which is perfect for everyday cleaning. Download our Care and Maintenance guide.
We value your expertise, please share your cleaning granite countertops experience.
Contact Marble and Granite at 877-39-STONE for more information or come by one of our showrooms in Westwood, Massachusetts or Milford, Connecticut for products and professional
advice.
Photo by Jennifer Brouwer (Jennifer Brouwer Design) via Houzz
Every single piece of granite is unique, which is why homeowners, architects and designers often prefer this natural stone over other countertop surfaces. But as of recent years, there is another reason why granite still remains one of the most popular countertop materials on the market. The cost of granite countertops has become more affordable. Here is what a kitchen designer told the Chicago Daily Herald in a recent article entitled "Price, Quality Make Granite King of the Kitchen Remodel?"
"Granite is so inexpensive these days that literally everyone is using it. Corian is dead because it isn't heat-resistant and is hard to clean; and laminate countertops are only carried by the big box stores like Home Depot."
It used to be that 3/4-inch granite was the low-cost option for granite countertops in kitchens and baths, but most granite is cut to 1 and 1/4 inch for enhanced durability and color. As the article reports, the result of the increased affordability of granite is that it is now being used in other applications besides countertops, including showers, window sills, fireplace surrounds and pool surroundings.
For the largest selection of natural stone in the New England area and the best priced granite countertops, browse the Marble and Granite website or contact us at 877-39-STONE.
Photo by Dan Cutrona via New England Home Magazine
Because of its unrivaled beauty and durability, granite continues to be the single most popular countertop material in the industry. But what some may not know is that quartz has become one of the fastest growing markets in the stone surface industry, according to an article from Remodeler Magazine. In the article, a marketing manager for a stone company makes an interesting comparison between the consumers for the two stone surfaces.
“The customers we see that are looking at granite really are looking for that beauty and movement in the stone . . . with granite, it’s like choosing a piece of art, whereas customers who want a more consistent look will choose quartz.”
While granite’s strength and durability is common knowledge, the benefits and qualities of quartz are not as widely known. The quartz component of granite is actually what makes granite so strong.
“While some granites can have as little as 20% or 30% quartz, a quartz countertop can have as much as 93% quartz and only 7% coloring and binding.”
On average, the costs of granite and quartz surfaces are not necessarily significantly different. But since the cost of granite is not determined by the quality and rather how readily available that specific stone is, quartz can often be found at a competitive price compared to granite. The major difference, then, is personal preference when it comes to aesthetics. Both granite and quartz countertops can suit an array of interior styles.
Here at Marble and Granite, Inc. we can offer contractors, designers and homeowners the best value granite countertops and the highest quality granite countertops as well as exquisite quartz surfaces such as the leading Caesarstone brand. Contact us at 8777.39.STONE or come by one of our showrooms located in Westwood, Massachusetts or Milford, Connecticut.
Source: Remodeler Magazine
Photos via Caesarstone
Photo Credit: Andre Rothblatt Architecture via Houzz