Natural stone countertops are a beautiful kitchen and bathroom addition for any home. One of the reasons they are an excellent investment is because they last a lifetime. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) longevity survey, they can serve your home for 100 years or more.

That means you don't have to replace them every few years as you might with other materials. But that is not to suggest there aren't any maintenance requirements. You will still need to care for them to keep them looking new. 

Here are a few tips to help you do just that.

Daily Cleaning with Mild Detergent

The number one enemy of natural stone countertops is acid. Acid can etch and dull the surface and damage the sealant. To avoid this, you should always clean up spills as soon as possible.

Use a pH-neutral cleaner specifically designed for natural stone. You can also clean using a mild dish soap and water solution. Just remember to rinse it off thoroughly afterward. Also, use coasters under all glasses and bottles to prevent moisture rings. 

Reseal to Repair

Sealing your natural stone countertop is essential to prevent staining. Sealing also makes cleanup easier. Depending on the type of stone, experts recommend resealing after every six months to 1 year or 3 to 5 years.

To test if your countertop needs to get sealed, sprinkle a few drops of water on the most used part of the surface. If the water beads up, your countertop is still in proper condition. If the water soaks in, it's time to reseal. Contact Orlando Stone World for expert countertop resurfacing.

Use Only Mild Scrubbing Agents

When scrubbing your natural stone countertop, only use mild agents. Harsh chemicals will damage the seal and leave your countertop susceptible to staining. Instead, use a soft cloth or sponge with warm water and mild detergent.

Remove Tough Stains with Baking Soda & Hydrogen Peroxide Paste

Despite your best efforts, stains can still happen. If you get tougher stains, use a slightly abrasive cleanser like baking soda mixed with hydrogen peroxide. Apply the paste to the stained part and let it sit for a few minutes. 

The paste will serve as a gentle scrubbing solution that breaks down the stain and makes it easier to wipe away. Afterward, rinse the area well and dry it thoroughly.

With proper care, your natural stone countertop can last a lifetime. But we understand that accidents do happen and damage your expensive investment. At Orlando Stone World, we're here to help.

We specialize in countertop resurfacing and can make your countertop look as good as new again. We work in Orlando, Lake Nona, Lake Mary, and Clermont, as well as the surrounding areas. Contact us today for a free consultation.

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When it comes to kitchen and bath remodeling, you need to find a good contractor to hire to be able to achieve the kitchen and bath you want.

Here are a few tips you can keep in mind to help you land a good contractor:

• Ask around. If you have friends and relatives who had just gotten their kitchen and bath remodeled they might be able to recommend a good contractor. If they had a bad experience with their contractor, then you know which company to avoid. You can also ask them for tips on their experience in remodeling.
• Look into at least 3 companies before deciding on which contractor to go with. You can compare and contrast each companies’ advantages and disadvantages like pricing, services offered and others. Some companies tend to over charge their clients without their clients even knowing they are being ripped off until its too late.
• Ask for the company’s credentials and experience. Look for a contractor that have the necessary licenses for its operations as well as the necessary certifications to ensure they are professionals. As not all certificates are of the same weight, also make sure that the one issuing the certificate is a prestigious organization or one that has authority in such industry. This may seem like an unnecessary step but remodeling does not come cheap. You cannot be too careful who you invest your money in.
• Ask and check for references. Contractors with a good track record should not have any issue in giving you a list of references. When they know they consistently do a good job, they won’t hesitate in giving you a list. Make sure you check the list out and call a few names and ask about their experience. Make sure references are recent one tht the contractor has done work for in the last 3 or 6 months.
• Shop local. When a local business has been in the area for quite some time it usually signifies reliability making it a safe bet. When you choose a local contractor, you are supporting a company that is involved in your community and you are helping keep its people employed.

 
When it comes to kitchen and bathroom remodeling, you have to pick the right company to be able to transform your vision in to a reality without breaking the bank. If you are in the DeLand, Mount Dora, Maitland, Winter Park and other surrounding Orlando communities one of the best contractors you can hire is Stone World. We have been serving the area for a few years and our company has only been growing since then.

Our services include but are not limited to kitchen and bath remodeling, installation of natural stone countertops, fireplaces. Our prices are reasonable and fair and you are assured to receive quality service. If you have any concerns or inquiries about kitchen and bath remodeling, please give us a call at (407) 341-4688 and get your free quotation today!

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When it comes to refurbishing your kitchen your job as an owner of the house is more than just selecting the material. ​​

The granite countertop installation requires your attention. In most of the cases, contractors inform homeowners of the installation process and ask to take a few precautionary measures. Keeping the precautionary measures in mind you can ensure smooth installation of granite countertops.

Here are some of the things you need to do:

1. Finish Every Pending Task: If you are refurbishing your home or kitchen there might be some pending tasks like plumbing, cabinetry and more. Get these tasks completed the countertop installation for smooth countertops. There shouldn't be anything moving between the templating and installation otherwise measurement of the countertop may go wrong. 
   
   
2. Set Aside Time For Templating: You should be there when contractor measures the countertops for granite slabs. Make sure you get all the area measured including corners, sides, outlets etc. Also, inform the contractor of any cutouts you would like to have for appliances such as drop-in sinks and cooktops. Be as specific as you can. 
   
   
3. The Installation: After having taken the measurement, the contractor will cut the stone as per the measurement and will install the countertop in the kitchen. Remember, you will have to be present at the time of installation. The installation would take anywhere from two to six hours.
   
   ​You will have to clear everything from the countertop before the Orlando granite contractors start installing the granite slab. The granite once installed will be ready to use. However, as a precaution don't try to roughly handle it. Give it some time to rest and settle. 
   
   

Stone World is a leading installation provider of professional natural stone countertop in Orlando, FL. Get in touch with us today at 407-341-4688 for a free consultation. 

Quartz countertops are an increasingly popular choice for homeowners in Orlando looking to update their kitchens. Quartz is a robust and durable material resistant to scratches and stains, making it a low-maintenance option for busy families. They are also attractive, giving you the look of natural stone. 

But can quartz countertops be damaged? Keep reading to find out.

Can quartz countertops be damaged?

The simple answer is yes. While quartz countertops are strong and durable, they can get damaged if they are not adequately cared for. With enough physical force, they can crack or chip off. They can also get scratched from the impact of sharp objects.

Like everything else, your quartz countertops will not last forever and will eventually need to get replaced. However, they can serve you for many years with proper care and maintenance.

While they may not need as much care as their natural stone cousins, quartz countertops still require special care to keep them looking new. Some of the things that can damage quartz countertops include:

• Using harsh chemicals to clean them
• Using abrasive cleaning pads 
• Placing hot pots and pans directly on them 
• Using knives and other sharp objects directly on them

How Do You Care for Quartz Countertops to Prevent Damage?

Since quartz countertops can get damaged, it's essential to take proper care of them. Here are some tips on how to do that:

Use a cutting board: While quartz is scratch resistant, that does not mean it is scratch-proof. Please don't treat it the same way as a metal food prep table and cut directly on it. Always place a cutting board on top of your quartz countertop before cutting or chopping anything.

But if knives already damage it, that is not the end. We at Orlando Stone World can restore the beauty of your quartz countertop. Contact us today so that we can inspect the extent of the damage and offer a solution.

Use hot pads: Quartz can withstand high temperatures in Orlando. In fact, most manufacturers warranty their countertops against heat damage. However, continuous exposure to high heat can eventually discolor the countertop. 

It's best to use hot pads or trivets when placing hot pots and pans on your quartz countertop. It will help extend the life of your countertop and keep it looking new.

Use mild soap and water: When cleaning quartz countertops, less is more. You don't need to use harsh chemicals. All you need is some mild soap and water. Washing chemicals such as bleach can corrode the surface of your countertop and dull the professional finish leading to stains and etches.

Use a soft cloth: Avoid using abrasive cleaning pads such as steel wool or sandpaper as they can scratch the surface of your countertop. Instead, opt for a soft cloth. If you find that your countertop is particularly dirty or greasy, you can use a small amount of mild soap on your fabric.

Keep Spills Under Control: Quartz countertops are resistant to staining, but that does not mean spills should get left for days. Allowing them to sit on the surface for too long eventually dulls the finish and can lead to staining. 

However, spills are not a reason to panic. Ensure you wipe off as soon as possible using a soft cloth soaked in mild soap and water.

If your quartz countertop is already damaged, don't despair. In most cases, the damage can get repaired. At Orlando Stone World, we have a team of experts who can assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

We proudly serve Orlando, Windermere, Maitland, Clermont, and Ocoee with our industry-leading quality and service. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

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Are you wondering whether you can get white granite countertops for a kitchen upgrade? Pure white granite countertops do not exist because granite combines minerals.

However, you can still get white granite countertops with shades of other colored minerals. White granite countertops are an excellent option of upgrading your kitchen.

Continue reading for an overview of white granite countertops. 

What Makes Granite White?

Typically, granite is composed of quartz and feldspar as the main minerals. The black specs in white granite are called amphibole. So what you get as white granite is a bright off-white or darker off-white granite. The balance of minerals determines the overall color of the granite piece. Pure white granite has at least a small amount of colored minerals.

Types of White Granite Countertops

There are many types of white granite countertops in Orlando. Let’s look at some popular types:

• Alaska White Granite

Alaska White comes from Brazil and has a dazzling blend of cool and warm colors, including deep onyx, rich cocoa, frosty white, and icy silver.  The design features a slight movement with moderate color, tone, granularity, and pattern variations. Alaska White complements both dark and light cabinets such as brown.

• Colonial White Granite

Colonial white granite is a vanilla-colored stone with smokey gray patches and rose-colored flakes and features dark black specs. It is an off-white granite with subtle and even-patterning and impressive marks resembling patterns in cream ice cream. It offers a warm look and complements light wooden cabinets.

• Andromeda White Granite

Andromeda White granite has a light surface contrast with darker colors. It offers an ultra-modern look with a subtle variation from pure white countertops. Andromeda white granite also has beige and white specs and features gray veins, small streaks, and black grain. It is ideal for use in both modern and traditional kitchens in Orlando.

What Are the Benefits of White Granite Countertops?
​

• Imposing Outlook

A white granite countertop will bring vibrance and warmth into your kitchen. The varieties of white granite that are ivory, cream, and snow-white will brighten your kitchen, leaving a stylish and luxurious look.  White countertops have specks and variations that make each slab unique.

• Lights up a Room

White granite countertops brighten your kitchen, making it look spacious and lighter. The light color widens the small kitchen and creates a feeling of freshness and an appealing atmosphere.

• Compatible With Many Colors

Countertops come in various shades. Therefore, matching every design to suit your aesthetic preference is easy. You can also contrast the white color with black flooring or darker brownish cabinetry.

Conclusion
There are many white granites to choose from when settling on white granite countertops. White granite countertops in Orlando have a stunning appearance and will lighten your room. 

At Stone World in Orlando, FL, we perform professional residential and commercial natural stone installations. Contact us for a free proposal on white granite installation in Orlando. We work in Windermere, Gotha, Apopka, and Winter Park, as well as the surrounding areas. The quotes and advice are always free!

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Getting the perfect countertop for your kitchen can be quite a task. There are many stones to choose from, each in various shades and prices. Some countertops can cost as much as $200, and that’s without factoring in other expenses such as cost.

Read on to discover what is the most expensive countertop in Orlando.

Marble

Marble is the most expensive countertop in Orlando. The average cost of a square foot of the precious stone is between $75 and $250. Having a professional install a Marble countertop will cost you roughly $60 to $100 per square foot.

Types of Marble Countertops

1. Calacatta

Calacatta is at the top of the list in terms of cost. It comes from Carrara quarry in Italy, the only source worldwide. This attribute is the sole reason it’s so expensive. Calacatta marble also has a defining feature: its veining. It comes in vivid hues and shades such as grey and gold.

2. Carrara 

Carrara is the most common type of marble, primarily because of its affordability. It comes in different shades, such as gold and white, usually with grey veining. 

Carrara marble countertops retail at roughly$40 per square foot.

Why You Should Get Marble Countertops

Plenty of homeowners prefer marble countertops despite their hefty prices. Here’s why:

• They are durable: marble is one hardy stone. It’s more resistant to chipping and scratching compared to other countertops.
  
  
• They are heat-resistant: marble countertops are perfect for cooking and baking enthusiasts. The stone stays cool throughout, nor does it melt, burn or stain when exposed to heat. However, avoid placing hot pans directly onto the countertop to preserve the finish.
  
  
• They have a beautiful aesthetic: Marble comes in a range of colors such as white, black, and rose. These shades are naturally elegant, adding a classic element to your kitchen.
  
  
• Malleability: marble is a relatively easy stone to cut and shape, making it easier to install. You can have it installed in a variety of edge designs, including bevel, chisel, and waterfall.
  
  

Take-Home

Marble countertops are the most expensive in Orlando. Not only are they durable, but they are also highly malleable, making them easy to work with. They add a touch of class to your kitchen, giving it an overall elegant look and feel. 

If you’re looking for professional marble countertops, contact Orlando Stone World at (407) 341-4688 and get your free quotation today!

Are you looking for the most durable natural stone to renovate or build your home? Today, Onyx, Travertine, Marble, Granite, and Quartzite are some common pure stones. They carry vital properties to improve building, designing, or sculptural projects. For example, their chemical composition and durability guide you in selecting the right piece for a specific task.

Most natural stones are strong though popular granite is 100 percent natural, more potent, and last longer. It scores the hardiest on the Mohs scale, making it a perfect stone for rugged areas like countertops, flooring, and outdoor decoration. In addition, it is formed by heat and pressure to prevent those ugly dark burn marks.

So, read on to discover why it is the toughest rock with matchless benefits to the user.  

Why is Granite the Most Durable Natural Stone?

Most homeowners and building contractors love using natural granite stone for good reasons. There are many factors to back the durability feature of this stone. Here are a few remarkable examples.

• All-Weather Stone: Granite is one great option to improve your countertop or path. It has the power to withstand all seasons, from summer to winter. Hence, the design is worthy of its installation to match the overall look of your home.
  
  
• Property Composition: For granite to be the toughest, it has a grand composition of significant minerals. For instance, it contains the likes of biotite, potassium feldspar, quartz, and plagioclase feldspar.
  
  Its average density of 165 to 172 pounds/cubic foot confirms the Mohs Hardness Scale of 6 to 8. Mohs is a kit to compare the relative hardness to another.
  
  
• Non-Scorch: Pressure and heat create granite stones; hence, the process prevents those ugly dark marks on your kitchen counter. However, its porous nature cannot resist staining if you leave on spilled liquids or extreme hot pots for longer.
  
  
• Less Maintenance: Granite is one of the best maintenance-free working areas for most homes with children. Unlike marble and slate, it needs fewer sealing or waxing sessions to prevent water intrusion and stains. However, because of the porous material, you should seal it once in a while to clear bacterial and other food residues.
  
  
• Deposit Sources: These hard rock deposits are in many places worldwide. Hence, it is not a rare plutonic rock. Initially, small quantities were visible in island arcs with high concentrations in continental arc setups. Today, American quarries are the most extensive granite suppliers, alongside Canada and Italy.

Now, with this revelation on how strong the granite can be, you need to learn its proper uses. This igneous stone is ideal in many places because it is unique, friendly to the environment, and lasts longer. Here is a quick look at some of its uses in today’s human life.   

Four Amazing Uses of Granite Natural Stone

1. Countertops
Most commercial sites and homes prefer using granite as their countertops. Here is why! It takes less time and energy to clean. It is resistant to heat, stains, and scratches caused by rough wiping sponges and hot pans. In addition, it improves the appearance of the working area of a kitchen.

2. Back Splashes
You can use granite tiles to prevent backsplashes behind kitchen sinks. It contains the growth of bacteria and mold. In addition, the application has a waterproof feature to arrest any water damaging the walls.

3. Granite Tiles
Fixing tiles enhances the overall flooring of your home. It leaves the space looking original, classy, and resistant to beverage stains or acid damage. Using granite tiles on the swimming pool floor is another fantastic idea. They are non-slipper and keep your pool warm by using darker shades.

4. Fireplaces
Granite is a good conductor of heat, so it will save you energy source and time as the fireplace gets warm faster. In addition, the living room will look decent while adding a natural appearance.

Take-Home

​Granite is a durable natural stone with outstanding features. Hence, you gain tremendous benefits from using it in your home or office environment. From creating classy floors to eye-striking kitchen countertops, the list is endless. We service Orlando, Windermere, Winter Park, Lake Nona, and surrounding areas. So, next time you plan to get a professional granite countertop, contact Stone World at (407) 341-4688 for competitive rates. 

The kitchen is one of the most important areas in a home. It is ideal for this area to be spacious, clean, and organized at all times. To do this, you must have enough storage in the kitchen. If you’re wondering how to maximize kitchen storage space, you came to the right page. We will be sharing some tips that you might find useful.
 
You don’t have to do a full kitchen remodel for you to organize your kitchen and maximize storage space. You can do these instead:
 
Declutter and dispose of things you don’t need anymore. The first step would be to toss all expired food items and get rid of the things you don’t need or use anymore. Many times, we find ourselves having a disorganized kitchen simply because we keep things we can’t or won’t even use or consume!
 
Use jars or canisters to store bulk items. Food items that usually come in large boxes or plastic containers can be stored neatly when you repack them. Choose clear glass containers so they’re visible too and you won’t need labels anymore.
 
Hanging pot racks can save a lot of cabinet and counter space. Hang pots and pans over your sink or kitchen island. Do it creatively so they serve as pretty kitchen decor too!
 
Risers will give you a lot of extra storage space. Maximize vertical space by using risers over cabinets or countertops.
 
Use the other side of the cabinet door. You can install racks on cabinet doors so you can use it for even more storage space.
 
Clean as you go. Clutter can build up quickly over time. Don’t place that utensil on the sink without washing it or those leftover foods on top of the counter without keeping them. Fold those empty grocery bags immediately and empty the dishwasher after using it. Cleaning as you go can make a whole lot of difference in keeping your kitchen organized.

How to maximize kitchen storage space? You need enough countertop space and cabinets too. For granite, quartz, or marble kitchen countertops and kitchen islands, contact Stone World. We are available in Orlando, Maitland, Longwood, Lake Mary, Winter Park, and the surrounding areas. Call us at 407-341-4688 to request a free estimate!

You are probably thinking about this question right now if there are any unsightly cracks on your countertops. Granite countertop replacements are not exactly cheap and they take a bit of time to work on too so it might be a little bit of a hassle if you consider replacing just because of a crack or two. Read on and find out whether it would be possible for you to repair those cracks.
 
First of all, if you have a couple of hairline cracks on your granite countertop, you don’t have to be worry about them too much. Remember, granite, especially those with high-quality materials and installed by a reputable contractor are very tough and durable.
 
However, if cracks on your countertops are starting to bother you, then it’s time to consider getting them repaired. One simple way to repair those cracks would be by using acrylic or epoxy to glue the cracked areas back together. This must be done with utmost care though to ensure that your simple repair won’t result in more damage.

If you are still asking can I repair crack in granite countertop? The short answer would be yes. It is best to reach out to a professional for assistance though. As earlier mentioned, granite countertops are quite pricey. If repairs are done improperly, it may lead to irreversible damage, which can become even more expensive.
 
Furthermore, a professional and experienced contractor has the tools, equipment, and materials that are essential in fixing damaged countertops. When the damage is beyond repair, the contractor can recommend a full replacement instead.
 
Stone World can help you repair cracks on your granite countertops and other countertop materials. Aside from crack repair, we also offer sink repair, chip repair, seam repair, and more. Our services are available in Orlando, Winter Park, Windermere, and the surrounding areas. Contact our repairs department at 407-860-8763 to request a free quote.

Are you planning to install new countertops for your kitchen or bathroom? Granite countertops are in-demand because of its durability and elegant beauty. There are plenty of colors to choose from but today, we will be diving deeper into the most popular granite colors.
 
Before choosing the countertop color, there are several factors you may want to take into consideration including:
 
Kitchen or bathroom theme or style – Although granite colors are easy to match with almost everything, you still have to consider the current theme or style of your kitchen or bathroom.
 
Granite cost – Your budget may also affect the color you will be choosing. Generally speaking, blue, purple, and red granite are some of the most expensive granite colors.
 
Color availability – Not all shades of granite are easily available or accessible. Unless you’re willing to wait until the exact color you prefer becomes available, you might have to consider other colors.
 
Granite pattern – There are also different granite patterns and tones you may choose from. The most common ones are neutral tones, matte finish granite, and granite with veiny patterns similar to marble.
 
As for the most popular granite colors, shades of white, brown, black, and blue are some of the top choices among homeowners. More often than not, homeowners prefer matching granite colors for all countertops. For instance, in the kitchen, the countertops and kitchen island have matching colors for granite. The bathroom usually has the same color of granite for countertops and vanities. You can, however, play around with the color choices or combinations if you have something else in mind.
 
If you can’t find any granite color that matches your taste, you may want to take into consideration quartz countertops. Since quartz is engineered stone, it can be made into practically every color you can imagine. It also has similar advantages and features when compared with granite.

Is there anything you want for your bathroom or kitchen among the most popular granite colors? Let’s begin planning your countertop installation already! If you are located in Orlando, Longwood, Lake Mary, Windermere, or any of the surrounding areas, contact Stone World for assistance! You may reach us at 407-341-4688 for a free quote.