30 Nov 2023

For many years, when homeowners were considering which countertop material would be best for their kitchen and bathroom spaces, the obvious choice was granite countertops. Even today, granite countertops remain among the most popular countertop option for homebuilders and homeowners alike. In today’s market, there are more high quality countertop options available. Take quartz countertops, for example. When pitted against granite countertops as an option, you cannot really go wrong with either choice as far as durability goes. Both are great countertop options, and both should last a long time with proper care and maintenance.

However, there are some ways in which granite countertops differ from quartz and other countertop materials. Creative Stone specializes in high quality countertop options for our customers. We have learned a lot about the best countertop materials on the market and here is what we can tell you about the gift that is granite countertops.

When it comes to durability, granite is king. Granite stone is so tough that you could basically cut food directly on it and your knives would not scratch the surface at all. Not only that, but in comparison to options like quartz, granite proves to be more heat resistant. While it is possible to harm the sealant on top of a granite counter, the material itself can stand to have a pot or pan placed directly on it. This is not the case with most other countertop materials.

This is not to say that damage cannot be done to a granite countertop. A granite countertop can be chipped with a hard enough force. The beautiful thing about granite countertops though is that repairing them is fairly simple. Granite repair kits can be purchased by the homeowner.

In addition to these reasons, granite countertops are a great choice because of their affordability in comparison to other options, their ease of care, and their nearly endless color choices. Consider gifting yourself with granite countertops this holiday season. We know you will not be disappointed in your investment. If you are looking for a countertop specialist in Fayetteville, North Carolina and the surrounding areas, look no further than the professionals at Creative Stone. Give us a call today at (910) 491-1225.

29 Nov 2023

When it comes to countertop options for your kitchen build or remodel, you really cannot go wrong with choosing either quartz or granite countertops. Both countertop options are popular among homebuilders and homeowners alike because of their polished look and durability. Still, choosing between the two could be difficult. Do you go with the tried and true granite countertop or do you go with quartz countertops, a seemingly newer option? While granite is the number one choice for countertops around the world, both quartz countertops and granite countertops did not become popular in America until the 90s. Is one option better than the other option?

To begin granite and quartz countertops differ in makeup. Granite countertops are made completely of granite and quartz countertops, while almost entirely natural, contain about five percent of polymer resins in them. Both are highly durable, but quartz countertops are nearly indestructible.

As far as appearance goes, you have many, many options with both granite and quartz. The possibilities are practically endless for both, although homeowners and homebuilders alike may prefer quartz countertops because they are easier to customize.

One huge reason why these two countertop options are the most popular is because both granite and quartz countertops are extremely low maintenance. Both simply require that spills be cleaned up in a timely manner and that they be cleaned regularly with soap and water. While you may want to have your granite countertops resurfaced every year or so because of their makeup, there is no need for that with quartz countertops.

Of course for most homeowners and homebuilders who are choosing their countertops, it all comes down to cost. The cost of installing granite or quartz countertops in your home will probably not differ that much from each other, as both average around the same amount depending on different factors.

The truth is that whether you choose granite countertops or quartz countertops, you will be choosing a high quality material that will last for a long time in your home. Creative Stone specializes in all of your countertop installation needs. Our team is experienced in helping homeowners and homebuilders choose their countertop and having it professionally cut and installed to their satisfaction. Are you considering a granite countertop? Could a quartz countertop be the solution for you? Contact Creative Stone today and let us help you decide! Call us at (910) 491-1225.

01 Nov 2023

In the United States, two of the biggest holidays for food consumption are Thanksgiving and Christmas. It is estimated that every Thanksgiving, nearly 46 million turkeys are served, and that during Christmas season, Americans drink about 122 pounds of eggnog. Meals tend to be more robust during the holidays when around 150 million people will be traveling to see family and friends all across the nation.

With so much food being prepared for family meals, it is important that holiday hosts take special care of their countertops during the holiday season. Creative Stone has a few tips on how to care for your countertops when big meals are being prepared.

Clean Up Spills Immediately. The potential for spills on your countertops is great during the holidays when so many different dishes are being prepared. It may be tempting when a spill happens to just wait until all of the food preparation is done to clean it up. Resist that temptation. It is always best to clean spills up as soon as possible to prevent any countertop damage, especially if the substance was dark in color or could stain if left to dry.

Do Not Set Hot Dishes On Countertops. As soon as a hot dish comes out of the oven or from the stove, protect your countertops by placing a trivet or heat resistant surface between the countertop and the pan.

Seal Your Countertops. It is a good practice of every homeowner that has invested in great countertops to seal your countertops periodically, or at least once a year. Sealing your countertops prevents a lot of damage to them, and ensures that they last for a very long time. You will be so glad that you took the time to do it!

Clean Your Countertops Responsibly. Most countertops made of nearly any material require a simple gentle cleanser and water to clean them. Resist the urge to use harsh countertop cleaners. When cooking with raw meat or any other food that could cause sickness or contamination, use cutting boards or a preparation surface other than your countertops.

Your countertops can survive for a long time with these simple tips for their care. The team at Creative Stone hopes you have a great holiday season, and if you are looking to invest in high quality countertops for your home, we would love to help you find the perfect choice! Give us a call at (910) 491-1225.

24 Oct 2023

As a homebuilder or general contractor in Pinehurst, you have the enormous task of choosing home features that are going to attract home buyers or please the homeowners you are contracted with. When it comes to countertop installation, natural stone options should be a no brainer. Over the past thirty years, natural stone countertops, like granite, have risen in popularity. Today, granite is the preferred countertop for most Pinehurst homeowners.

When considering natural stone countertop options, it is not hard to see why granite, marble, and quartz have become popular countertop choices for Pinehurst. Granite is incredibly durable and second in toughness only to diamonds. It does not scratch or break easily, and it is easy to clean. Quartz is much the same way. A quartz countertop will have a small shimmer quality to it, like a gem, but it is as tough as granite while being slightly more eco-friendly for Pinehurst homes. Marble countertops are another popular countertop option. Marble countertops do require more care because marble is softer than granite, and therefore it is less stain resistant, but they look great in any kitchen or bathroom space.

Creative Stone specializes in granite, marble, and quartz countertops that come in a variety of colors and textures. We also offer a variety of countertop edges to add the perfect finishing touch for Pinehurst homes. Our standard option comes with no additional cost to the homebuilder. We also work with several local North Carolina vendors, giving you even more options in materials. There is no question about it, you cannot go wrong with natural stone countertops made of granite, marble, or quartz. You simply cannot beat the durability of these materials and they look amazing in any Pinehurst residential or commercial space. As a homebuilder or general contractor, your clients will thank you for suggesting natural stone countertops for their Pinehurst project.

Our professional and knowledgeable staff at Creative Stone would love to discuss your clients’ countertop needs with you. Our team will be with you through every step! We have satisfied customers all over North Carolina, including the Fayetteville and Pinehurst areas. Give Creative Stone a call at (910) 491-1225 or stop in to see us in our showroom every Monday through Friday anytime between 8AM and 6PM at our Fayetteville, North Carolina location.

08 Oct 2023

Granite countertops have been the most popular choice in countertops for homeowners for many years. Although there are other high quality choices on the market today for countertops, like marble and quartz, granite countertops remain the top choice. Granite countertops are so popular because they look great, are tough and are easy to care for. Granite countertops have also become more affordable over the years, helping them to become an industry standard.

Although granite countertops are resilient, they still need to be sealed every once in a while. Many homeowners will choose to seal their granite countertops every 6 months to a year. The process is not a difficult one, but it is important in order to protect the granite countertops from sustained spills or substances like oil that will permeate the granite.

Homeowners can perform a simple test to see if their granite countertops need to be sealed or not. In a small area of the counter, place a couple of drops of water. In another small area, place a couple of drops of a cooking oil. If the oil seeps into the countertop and the water does not, the granite counter needs to be sealed.

Before you apply a sealant, make sure the countertop has been clean for 24 hours. Clean the surface with a combination of gentle dishwashing liquid and vinegar in a spray bottle of room temperature water. Wait 24 hours before proceeding because it is imperative that there is no moisture present before you seal the counter.

When you apply the sealant, you will want to wear a pair of good kitchen gloves and make sure there is plenty of ventilation in the kitchen. An open window is necessary for ventilation, but if rain can get on the countertop then open windows in a room nearby. Apply the sealant from one end of the counter to the other in a circular motion and then wait the allotted time stated in the manufacturers directions before wiping the counter down with a dry, clean cloth.

Granite countertops are made to stand the test of time. With just a little effort, homeowners can keep their granite countertops looking brand new. If you are interested in granite countertops and how to take care of them, we would be glad to help you. Give Creative Stone a call at (910) 491-1225.

20 Sep 2023

Who says you have to choose quartz OR granite? At Creative Stone, we say, “why not both?” The growing trend in home design is two tone countertops, or combinations of different types of natural stone in different patterns and colors.

Imagine you want to install a beautiful granite countertop throughout the kitchen, but it’s just not within the reaches of your homeowner’s budget. Instead, choose to install a cheaper quartz stone for the perimeter countertops, and only install the more expensive granite option for the floating island countertop.

The benefits don’t stop there! Maybe you have the budget, but your homeowners just don’t have the time for maintenance and care. Marble isn’t as tough as quartz or granite countertops, and it certainly isn’t as durable. Still, many homeowners will push for the beauty of marble in their kitchens. A compromise could be to install marble in less used areas of the kitchen and to install granite or quartz countertops elsewhere.

Think about location. Areas near the oven and sink are more prone to grease splatter and spills, so consider quartz or granite countertops for easy maintenance and high durability for these areas. In general, the perimeter a kitchen will see more use and have the most potential for damage and getting dirty. Granite and especially quartz countertops are resistant to staining, scratches, and heat, making them ideal choices.

Take the stress out of the decision by eliminating the need to decide between quartz or granite countertops! This modern trend to combine stone in kitchen countertop design is growing and is a creative, fun way to get the most out of your countertops and your budget.

Contact Creative Stone, and we’ll help you find the quartz or granite that’s best for your unique project! 910-491-1225

22 Aug 2023

Kitchen spaces are arguably the most important room of a new home build when attracting home buyers. Prospective homeowners love to see an attractive kitchen designed with functionality in mind. They understand the value of a great flooring choice, modern appliances, well thought out cabinet space, and durable countertops. Once they move in though, the challenge is to maintain the value of the kitchen by properly caring for its’ elements.

Many popular countertop options today got their popularity because, not only were they attractive, but they were fairly easy to care for as well. However, whether the countertop is made out of granite, quartz, marble, butcher block, or laminate, there are certain things that will cause wear and tear on the countertop to occur.

Depending on the countertop material, the kitchen dangers will vary. However, for virtually all countertop options, promptly cleaning up any spills, especially those from dark substances like coffee or wine, will keep the countertop from becoming stained. Also, not all countertops are heat resistant, so a good practice in any kitchen is to place hot pans or dishes on pot holders or trivets instead of directly on the counter surface. Equally important for most countertop options is to only use mild soap and a non-abrasive cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface. On countertop surfaces such as butcher block, it is crucial that kitchen users keep the area sanitized. Using undiluted vinegar is a safer option then traditional kitchen cleaners and disinfectants.

A number of the common kitchen dangers that can damage countertop surfaces can be completely avoided by sealing the countertops, and then resealing them over time when necessary. In today’s market, most kitchen countertop materials are built to last a long time. By taking proper care of them, homeowners can enjoy their functionality for many years to come.

Are you looking to install new countertops? Creative Stone would love to help you find the perfect countertops for your kitchen. Give one of our knowledgeable professionals a call today at our Fayetteville, North Carolina location by dialing (910) 491-1225.

10 Aug 2023

Outdoor kitchens have become an important household feature in recent years. Whether you like to entertain large groups of people or just enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, an outdoor kitchen not only extends your family’s living space, but it may also add value to your home. When having the space designed, you will certainly want to include enough counter space for food preparation and serving. Your counters will need to look good, but you will also need to choose a material that can last. They will need to withstand both the elements and the other unique complications that come from having an outdoor kitchen. When making your decision there are several materials to choose from but let’s focus on the most recommended.

Granite is a natural material that holds up well in the elements and is durable enough to withstand all the barbecue recipes, food, drinks, and all of the fun outdoor dining and entertaining. It has the ability to withstand extreme temperature changes, so whether it’s below freezing, or there’s sweltering heat, granite will maintain its integrity. When properly sealed it is resistant to stains, mold, and mildew. It won’t etch, discolor, or lose its shine. Sealing granite countertops is recommended to prevent stains and can be easily done. Furthermore, many varieties of granite are dense enough that you may not need to apply a sealer. So, with normal clean-up, granite countertops will last for years and look great the whole time. This is why granite countertops are the first choice for homeowners with outdoor kitchens. Granite is an eco-friendly material that is built to last.

Not only is granite robust enough to withstand whatever the elements and family get togethers throw at it, but is also simply a beautiful material. Homeowners can choose among a wide range of colors and patterns that make each countertop unique. There are many different design options when it comes to granite, but most include a speckled or flaked pattern.

While many people may recommended granite due to its ease of care and durability, it is not the only material available. To view other materials such as marble or quartz or to get a free estimate visit http://creativeston.wpengine.com/. We have the skill and superior craftsmanship to turn your outdoor kitchen dream into a reality!

25 Jul 2023

When constructing a new kitchen, there are many features to consider. From appliances to cabinets and flooring, all of the choices made have a big impact on the overall feel and functionality of the room. Countertops are no exception. In many ways, the countertops chosen for a kitchen construction project can make all the difference in the aesthetic of the room. In today’s market, there are many different options in countertop materials that are sure to make any homeowner happy. These options range from traditional choices like laminate and tougher materials like granite and quartz, as well as, fairly newer options like glass countertops, wood countertops or stainless steel countertops. Below are some of the options available to homebuilders.

If you are looking for a more affordable option for your countertops than most, laminate is a great way to go. Not only are laminate countertops friendly to most budgets, but the design possibilities are nearly endless. You can install laminate countertops in unique designs and colors, but also laminate countertops come in material that resembles the look of wood or quartz countertops.

If durability and ease of care are the priority, you cannot beat granite, marble or quartz countertops. The natural material is nearly indestructible and they are very easy to clean and maintain. Nowadays, pattern colors and design are more diverse as well.

Many homebuilders and contractors will choose wood countertops for the kitchen area. Wood countertops offer a rustic feel to most kitchen areas that they are installed in. Wood countertops are great for prepping food for cooking and they withstand high temperatures well. Wood countertops are also not as pricey as granite or quartz may be.

Stainless steel countertops are also great for prepping food, as easy cleanup of the steel material makes it one of the most hygienic options for countertops available to homebuilders.

Glass countertops are a fairly newer trend in kitchen countertops, but homeowners are choosing them for good reason. They are stain resistant and extremely easy to care for, and since they come in many different design options, they can fit into any design plan.

If you are looking for great countertop materials and options on how to install them, Creative Stone would be happy to help you! Come see us at our Creative Stone location in Fayetteville, North Carolina or give us a call today at (910) 491-1225.

29 Jun 2023

Are you thinking about remodeling your countertops? In newer, more modern homes, many homeowners are weighing the pros and cons about what type of countertops to install in their homes. You may notice quartz countertops are replacing marble and granite countertops and that may be for a few good reasons. Quartz has many benefits, such as color options, which can provide more of a variety than that of marble and granite. Because quartz is not considered an natural stone, it has a bit more durability and less weakness than that of granite, marble and slate. Still considering? Take a look at a few more reasons why quartz is taking over the countertop competition.

Quartz countertops have a unique molding capability which allows them to be molded and shaped into unique designs. Whether you want rounded counter bottoms or a total quartz sink, your imaginative design needs can be brought to life with this stone!

On the overall toughness scale, quartz rates higher than granite or marble. They are able to withstand the usual wear and tear that many traditional countertops cannot, and because they are not a natural stone, they have better durability that marble or granite. You’d have to take a sledgehammer to these countertops to scratch or break them.

Quartz is a non-porous surface, which means it is unsusceptible to any stains such as red wine spills or certain food dyes. It will not absorb any harmful colorations in the kitchen or the bathroom area, and it also won’t harbor any dangerous bacteria. This means a simple wipe down with soap and water will keep it clean.

Quartz is a no maintenance material. It does not require any extra conditioning after the install and unless you chip it with your big sledgehammer, there is no need for any later preservation.

If you still have questions about installing quartz countertops in the Fayetteville, NC area, drop by for a visit and receive an estimate on installing your quartz countertops today! To learn more visit us online at www.creativestone.com or call us at 910-491-1225.