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Wednesday, October 19th, 2016
Maitland-Smith Kitchen Island 5130-649
Do you believe that countertops are the anchors or foundations of your kitchen design? This is why it is best to have one that is shiny, beautiful and clean all the time. When it comes to countertop cleanup, though, there is no one method that works for every type. This is why you need to find out which cleaning technique is suitable for your kitchen counter.
The cleaning technique that you would use to make the countertop shine depends mainly on what material it is made of. Here are some tips on what to do if your kitchen countertop is made of –
Solid Material
Solid surfaces are available in semigloss, gloss, and matte finishes. Such countertops ask for extra care. Depending on the material quality, this often costs more compared to other countertops.
For glossy, solid surfaces, you can begin cleaning by using soapy water and any ammonia-based cleaning solution. Veer away from cleaning solutions that can scratch the surface.
If you want to achieve extra shine, then be sure to clean gently using a sponge. Just do this once every month to maintain the new glossy look.
You need to increase cleaning frequency with semigloss surfaces. This time, use any abrasive cleanser and a sponge. Repeat the cleanup to achieve a higher gloss. If you’re still not satisfied with the glossy that you did using the cleanser, then it’s time to have the countertop refinished or replaced.
Drexel Heritage Dining Room Evolution Counter Table 640-601
Ceramic Tile
Kitchens and baths have the most popular designs for tile countertops. Keeping these clean won’t just make them look like they’re brand new but would also keep them hygienic. Microorganisms can get into the grout, a porous material.
Get rid of dirt and bacteria by wiping these countertops after each use. Use your everyday tile cleaner. Begin with the grout by using your everyday tile cleaner. Begin with the grout by using a grout cleaner.
Deep stains should be treated with the same cleaner but, this time, let it sit for 10 minutes. Find a scrub brush or toothbrush to brush the dirt away.
Deep cleaning should be done twice to three times every year.
Natural Stone
These are your granite, slate or soapstone countertop. These are not easily stained nor become breeding grounds for bacteria. Soapstone countertops do not require annual sealing unlike other natural stones. Use mineral oil by applying them on the surface. This can even help deepen the color over time.
For granite, limestone or marble, refrain from using dish soap. This tends to make these surfaces appear dull. Stay away, too, from homemade concoctions and other gentle cleaners because these won’t have any lasting effects on the surface. There are commercially available cleaners that can even restore the original shine of dull granite.
Wood
This is also known as the butcher-block style countertop. This is best used in kitchens where food preparation is heavily done. Wood is heat resistant but it is susceptible to dirt and liquids.
The best cleaning method for wood is to wash it right after using.
Making the wood appear shiny begins by using some fresh lemon. Just wipe down the countertop using a non-toxic cleaner and sponge. As soon as it’s dry, sand the surface using 120-grit sandpaper. You can then sand again with 180-grit sandpaper till the wood is finally smooth. Use food-grade mineral oil on the counters then rub using a cotton rag. Soak the wood for about 20 minutes before wiping it clean.
Achieving a shine even on old kitchen countertops can be a simple task if you know what cleaner suits which material. Use proper techniques and cleaning solutions for your counter material. When you do so, you care for it and you don’t expose it to more damage.
Tags: caring for countertops, countertop care, countertop choices, kitchen countertop, kitchen countertop materials, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, natural stone, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | No Comments »
Wednesday, August 24th, 2016
Tommy Bahama Home Dining Room Cayman Kitchen Table 531-870
Whether you have decided to remodel your kitchen or are building one from scratch, countertop is one of the pieces that can make or break your kitchen’s look. You might feel overwhelmed as you take a look at the options that are in the market. The range of countertop surfaces range from the renowned butcher block to terrazzo and glass. Here are some of the most popular –
A Host of Choices in Granite
Granite offers pretty mottling and a wide array of patterns and colors that are beautifully found in nature. This countertop is able to withstand the harshest knife scratches, splashes, wear and tear, even heat.
The downside to granite – just like any other stone countertop – is that it needs to be sealed more often; this is so stains can be avoided. Also, since it is heavy, you’ll need sturdier cabinet materials to support its weight.
Granite price is at $35-$100 each square foot.
Maitland-Smith Bathroom Cast Brass Lion Soap Dish 1254-339 will look great against a new kitchen backsplash.
Quartz: Engineered for Beauty
Crafted quartz chips and resin comprise what’s known as quartz surfacing or engineered stone. This is a cross between stone and solid surfacing. This is an engineered product which is why there is a variety of patterns and colors that you could choose from.
Quartz is relatively expensive but when you look at it in the long run, it is a worthwhile investment as it can last for a very long time. Costing $40-$90 for every square foot, it is something that you need to plan for in terms of budget and installation.
The Glamour of Marble
Very few materials can come close to the beauty of marble. It is luminescent and it offers distinctive veining that’s elegant.
Marble stands up very well to heat because it is perennially cool. This is also the reason why bakers prefer it for their pastries and dough.
Marble is susceptible to stains, though, even when you have it sealed. This is why it is not advisable to use this material throughout your kitchen. Limit its use to just one or two areas as it easily chips and scratches.
Marble costs $40-$100 per square foot.
Solid Surfacing Spells Zero Maintenance
Solid surfacing, often generally referred to as Corian, can be maintenance-free. There is no special cleaning or sealing required. It can be susceptible to burns and scratches though these can easily be sanded out.
There are extensive color and patterns choices, with some even looking like natural materials. Experiment with the most vibrant hues like tomato red or turquoise.
A downside to solid surfacing is its artificial look. It may be maintenance-free but it does not stand too well to sharp kitchen tools and hot pans.
Modular, Inexpensive Tiles
Porcelain and ceramic tiles have almost a limitless array of options for styles and colors. Tiles work in most bathrooms and kitchens, with the design ranging from country to anything as majestic as the Old World.
Tiles can withstand sharp cuts and heat, they can even resist stains. They may chip or crack easily but they are quite easy to replace.
Make sure that the installed tiles are sealed so that grout and bacteria won’t grow.
The cost for every tile is at $10-$80 for every square foot.
Laminate: A Kitchen Mainstay
This kitchen countertop material is made out of paper and resins. It is basically particle board that used to be regarded as unstylish but this has been slowly changing over the years. The latest styles are now able to mimic butcher block and natural stone. The greater news is that laminate surfaces are a lot more affordable than most materials.
Laminate surfaces are prone to burns, scratches and staining. The layers can even peel once exposed to moisture and wear and tear.
Tags: countertop choices, countertop options, granite countertop alternatives, kitchen countertop, kitchen countertop materials, McCreerys, McCreerys Home Furnishings, non-granite choices, non-granite countertops, tips
Posted in Interior Design 101, Interior Design Elements, Kitchen Design | No Comments »
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