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 Natural stone provides beautiful kitchen countertops that are highly functional and luxurious. They usually have stunning colors and patterns that seamlessly enhance any interior design.
Apart from beauty and aesthetics, natural stones also offer durability. With regular maintenance and proper care, they can last a lifetime. Here, we'll briefly discuss a few most durable natural stones ideal for kitchen countertops in Orlando, FL. Quartz Countertops Quartz is the most durable natural stone you can get for your Orlando, Florida, home. But it does not exist from cut stone. Manufacturers make it by mixing crushed quartz with polymers and resin. The quartz countertop has a highly durable surface. Here are: Pros
Quartz beats other natural stones in toughness. In fact, it has double the impact resistance of granite. It's the most resistant countertop material under normal kitchen prep conditions. However, while it resists heat and impacts better, that doesn't mean it is heatproof or won't break under high impact. Cons
Granite Countertops Granite is the second most durable natural stone material for countertops. Unlike quartz, this is a product of mining earth granite stone and then cutting it into slabs. Granite comes from crystallized molten lava. That makes it extremely tough and beautiful, with numerous color options. Pros
While granite has a longer lifespan, it requires regular resealing to protect it from moisture and oils. Constant polishing helps conceal strains and chips and prolong its service life. Cons
Marble Countertop Marble exists naturally within the earth's crust. Like granite, it gets mined and then cut into slabs. Marble countertops have a unique luminous look that adds sophistication to your Orlando kitchen. With good maintenance and care, it can serve you for years. However, while it's durable, it's not as heat and scratch resistant as the other natural stone materials. It will get stained under hot pans. Therefore ensure you place trivets or mats under them when directly placed on the countertop. Pros
Cons
Natural stone countertops are some of the finest additions to any kitchen. They provide an unmatched elegance with superior durability. Each has its own pros and cons. So choose one that's within your budget and serves your needs best. At Orlando Stone World, we have all these durable natural stone countertops. With over 20 years of serving the local Orlando, Florida, area, we know precisely what would transform your kitchen into a masterpiece. Our team of professional installers will walk you through every one of them and help you select the perfect one. Contact us today to get started! We are privileged to serve Apopka, Windermere, Lake Nona, Maitland, Winter Garden, Lake Mary, as well as the nearby communities. Click to return to our services.
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 Quartz and marble are some of the best countertop materials in the market. They build gorgeous, luxurious kitchens and bathroom countertops that transform an ordinary space into a show-stopper.
But which one of the two is right for you in 2023? Here we'll compare quartz and marble materials and break down their differences to make it easier for you to decide. Durability: Marble vs. Quartz Marble provides a unique and beautiful natural appearance. It also resists heat and doesn't burn or scorch, making it ideal for kitchen countertops. However, it's prone to scratching, staining, and etching. Plus, it's susceptible to acid damage from things like vinegar and lemon juice. Mable requires regular maintenance to reseal it and keep it shining. On the other hand, quartz is available in various colors and patterns that mimic the look of stone. It's non-porous, meaning you won't worry about spills. It's also stain, scratch, chip, and crack resistant. Plus, it's easy to maintain. However, unlike marble, it's not very heat resistant. Under hot pots, it can scorch and crack. Furthermore, it can discolor over time when exposed to direct sunlight. In regards to durability, quartz is the better choice for 2023. Beauty: Marble vs. Quartz Quartz and marble are both stunning materials that can transform your interior. However, there's no denying that marble has a unique, timeless look. Depending on the marble type you choose, it can boast a lot of variation and movement, making it aesthetically appealing. On the other hand, quartz is available in various colors and patterns that can mimic natural stone. But this beauty is artificial and has some consistency, which is way off the look of natural stone. While both materials are beautiful in their own right, in terms of aesthetics, marble is the winner in 2023. Cost: Marble vs. Quartz Marble is a premium material and can cost more than quartz. Its beauty, unique appearance, and luxurious feel make it more expensive. Depending on your locality and the type of marble you pick, the price can range between $50 to $250 per square foot, including installation. On the other hand, quartz is more affordable than marble. It's a good budget-friendly option for anyone looking for a durable, low-maintenance countertop. The price can range from $55 to $150 per square foot, including installation. Overall, quartz wins the cost round in 2023. But if you can afford it, marble is also an excellent option. Both materials are fine in your kitchen and bathrooms. But the ultimate choice depends on your preferences and budget. We at Orlando Stone World provide these two quality countertops and the best installation services. Call us at (407) 341-4688 to request a free estimate. We are privileged to serve Orlando, Windermere, Winter Park, Lake Nona, Longwood, and Maitland, as well as the nearby communities. Click to learn more about us.  As of 2023, quartz is the most popular kitchen countertop material in Orlando and its environs. Florida homeowners seem to love its qualities and are buying it in droves.
But what exactly makes Quartz countertops so popular? Here, we'll briefly go over a few characteristics that make quartz the most coveted countertop in Orlando. Stunning Look The most appealing quality of quartz countertops is their beautiful aesthetic appeal. They can turn a basic kitchen interior into a modern, welcoming living space. That's not all. Their sparkling look also provides a luxurious touch and an upmarket feel. Quartz countertops come in different styles, shapes, and looks to suit various needs and styles. They have a wide variety of colors, textures, and patterns. Unlike other natural stones, quartz allows customization for a unique look. You won't just pick whatever the quarry has to offer. At Orlando Stone World, we have plenty of design options and a wide range of edge styles. Durability Kitchen countertops are a huge investment. You don't want to replace them too often. You want something that lasts until your next home renovation. That's what you get with quartz countertops. Quartz is an incredibly durable material that can withstand all the wear and tear of everyday life in the kitchen. Since it's an engineered stone, the manufacturing process ensures it has no weak areas that can crack or chip easily. It's also non-porous, meaning it won't absorb liquids or other substances that can compromise the integrity of the surface. Quartz countertops are nearly indestructible. Moreover, they can stand the test of time and still look good. Low Maintenance Apart from durability, the low maintenance of quartz countertops is yet another factor that makes them popular. You won't have to spend money every few months to return them to their original shape. Since quartz countertops are non-porous, they do not soak water or other liquids that compromise their structural integrity. That means you won't have to reseal or polish them regularly. However, that does not mean they won't need maintenance entirely. Quartz countertops will need the service of an experienced technician once in a while to restore their original beauty. That happens, especially when you expose them to harsh chemicals or sharp objects. But these repairs are not frequent and don't cost much. Sanitary The health and safety of your family should always come first. That's why most homeowners want a countertop that won't threaten their well-being. Fortunately, quartz is among the safest surface materials around. Quartz is a non-porous material making it resistant to bacteria. Unlike other surfaces like concrete and wood that harbor contaminants, these ones are not a breeding ground for germs. They provide no ideal environment for mold or mildew to thrive. They don't retain smells, either. That only means you won't have to worry about the health of your loved ones when preparing meals on quartz countertops. Contact Us Today Quartz countertops are the most popular kitchen countertop in Orlando for a good reason. You can also benefit from these incredible features. At Orlando Stone World, we are your one-stop shop for quartz countertops. We provide high-quality materials and installation services at competitive prices. Contact us today for all kitchen services. Our company services Orlando, Windermere, Winter Park, Ocoee, Apopka, Gotha, and the surrounding communities. Click to learn more about us.  Quartz and Granite are some of the best countertop materials for your kitchen and bathroom. Both provide unique properties and qualities that make them appealing for various renovation projects.
But which one is the better option? Here, we'll briefly discuss the main differences between quartz and granite countertops. You will get to know how these materials look, their properties, and how to decide which is better for you. But first... What Are Granite And Quartz? Granite is a beautiful hard stone mined from quarries. It gets cut to a manageable size and polished until it has a fine glossy surface. Quartz is not a naturally existing stone. It is a combination of natural ground quartz glued together using polymer resin to create customizable slabs. While it's industrial-made, Quartz makes up 95%, and the resins make up the other 5%. So, what is the difference? Keep reading to find out. 1. Appearance Granite Granite is typically known for its numerous unique patterns and color combinations. No granite slabs are alike, with some having bold, vibrant colors to subtle earth tones. This uniqueness results from its formation (the cooling and solidification of molten material). With such a variety of stunning appearances, there is almost a limitless selection of Granite. Quartz Although the production of Quartz occurs in factories, it still comes in various styles and colors. Indeed their explosion in popularity is a result of their beautiful appearance miming natural stone. Furthermore, Quartz has the advantage of allowing homeowners to customize the design. Unlike Granite, where you have to find your ideal style, you can alter Quartz to create a unique look. 2. Environmentally-Friendly Is Granite Environmentally Friendly Extraction of Granite generally involves quarrying, which uses large amounts of energy. Furthermore, there will be considerable transportation if you buy high-end slubs from places like Italy. These aspects make Granite a less environmentally friendly option. Is Quartz Environmentally Friendly The production of Quartz is energy-intensive but does not involve quarrying. Therefore, it is more environmentally friendly than Granite. In recent years the production process has also improved, resulting in a lower carbon footprint. Moreover, local production of Quartz considerably reduces transportation and the emissions involved. 3. Maintenance Granite On the maintenance front, Granite is a little more demanding. You must clean daily with a household cleaner or water and soap. It also needs resealing once a year to ensure longevity. Furthermore, note that some acids and oils can stain your Granite. Therefore, avoid scrubbing and spilling as much as possible. Quartz Quartz countertops are generally considered the low-maintenance option. You must wipe down your countertops with a cloth, warm water, and soap. However, there is no need for resealing since Quartz has a solid surface. 4. Durability Granite Granite is a highly durable material resistant to heat and other kitchen elements. However, due to its porous nature, it is not invulnerable to staining and may incur damage upon high impact. Quartz Quartz is multiple times harder than Granite, making it nearly indestructible. Furthermore, since it is not porous like Granite, it is resistant to stains and bacteria. However, always use heating pads since Quartz is not heat resistant and may incur damage from excessive heat. Conclusion Both Granite and Quartz have their respective advantages and disadvantages. Granite is economical, appealing, and heat resistant. On the other hand, Quartz is low-maintenance, stain and bacterial-resistant, and allows customization. Ultimately, the best one for your kitchen or bathroom depends on personal preference and budget. At Orlando Stone World, we are home to Granite and Quartz countertops. We provide high-quality materials and installation services at competitive prices. Contact us today to find out more! We are proud to serve Orlando, Winter Park, Longwood, Clermont, and Ocoee with our industry-leading service. Click to learn more about us.  Granite is fast becoming a popular choice for bathroom and kitchen countertops. They are durable hence a good return on investment. Unlike marble and quartz, granite seems everlasting, with high resistance to scratches and stains.
But perhaps the most eye-catching detail of this igneous rock is its multifaceted coloration. These colors stem from mineral elements coalesced within the rock’s structure. Whether you prefer white, black, brown, or even salmon pink, granite has a shade for you. Here is a quick sneak peek into the main colors for granite countertops. 1. Black granite countertops Black granite is the epitome of elegance for countertops as it naturally contains a high percentage of pyroxene and plagioclase compounds. It comes in various shades, including Uba Uba (from Brazil), black pearl, and black galaxy granites. The color blends in well with brown wooden cabinets, while white or gray cabinets will give it a classic complement. Black granite countertops are also ideal for spacious kitchen spaces with ample natural lighting. The silver specs within the granite structure catch the light, releasing a spectacular reflection. 2. White granite countertops White granite countertops go into almost all kitchen settings. It carries an aura of modernity that produces a fresh, clean, and open-feel kitchen. Additionally, white blends effortlessly with silver kitchenware and white cabinets. Unfortunately, unlike marble or quartz, pure white granite is hard to find, and you may have to settle for a shade of white. If unsure of the colors, you can take several samples home to have the feel. The tiny brown specs and black veins cutting through the white granite give it a unique artistic appearance. The following hues of white granite are available:
3. Brown granite countertops Brown granite countertops offer a more earthy appearance. The gold and brown colors finely blend to give you various remodeling options. You could go for Baltic brown, New Venetian Gold, or tan brown. Tan brown goes well with dark wooden furniture, while rich dark brown goes better with lighter cabinet colors. The gold-brown colors give your spaces a rustic and warm taste. 4. Gray granite countertops Gray gives you a middle option between black and white without losing elegance. It can represent both classic and modern vibes, depending on your cabinet colors and furniture designs. Gray granite is your best fit if you want something to add a welcoming, homey ambiance to your living space. Granite comes in almost infinite shades. Getting the right color that matches your kitchen or bathroom spaces is easier. At Orlando Stone World, we are the solution to your countertop needs. We offer all countertop services, including installing, repairing, and resealing. Contact us today to get free, no-obligation estimates! We are privileged to serve Orlando, Ocoee, Lake Mary, Altamonte, Apopka, and Gotha, as well as the nearby communities. Click to learn more about us.  The kitchen countertop is a busy area involving different tools in use. That makes it prone to recurrent damage that may sometimes be costly. It, therefore, requires a material that can withstand cracks, scratches, heat, and stains.
One such material is quartz, but why is it popular among homeowners? Here is why. Durability Kitchen counters demand strong materials since it's a busy surface for various food preparation activities. Quartz is a countertop fitting material made from 90% slabs of stone, 10% colored pigments, and binding polymers. That makes it tough, thus no chips, scratches, or stains. It also helps it withstand bangs from knives, cups, plates, and other kitchen accessories. You can have it without the worry of damage and fixing cracks. It gives an assurance of long-term service. It is Non-porous The design of quartz countertops makes them non-porous, meaning there are no cracks or holes to soak in anything. The benefits of being non-porous are that it needs no sealing. It makes it easy to install, unlike other materials that require sealing. It's also more sanitary as no spills or liquid get into it, bringing bacteria and viruses. While that is not to say that you shouldn't clean it, it's just that you don't have to worry about spills ruining your countertop. Additionally, they have a smooth surface making them easy to clean or wipe off. It is Stylish With quartz, you can have a custom colour or pattern to fit your taste and preference. You can choose one that mimics concrete, marble, or granite, depending on your preference. It's also made to order, depending on your desired design. The finishing also has a variety of choices, including shiny, matte, leather, or polished. You can have the preferred design that complements your kitchen interior decor and still have the assurance of durability and easy maintenance. Low Maintenance Another reason quartz is popular is that it requires little to no maintenance. Countertops made from this material don't need any wax coating and sealants, unlike most other materials. That means no regular polishing or re-coating to keep them looking new. Due to its non-porous nature, it doesn't need intense scrubbing either. You only need basic household cleaners without using any special cleansers. Great Long-term Investment Quartz countertops are a long-term investment to any homeowner due to their longevity and low maintenance. You don't need to keep replacing or repairing them yearly, which would cost you money. Its low maintenance and the ability to clean easily use less money in the long run. Additionally, since it's popular, you can trust that it will be a selling point if you want to put your house on the market. Every homebuyer wants a kitchen that is both stylish and easy to maintain. You, too, can take advantage of quartz countertops to give your kitchen an excellent look while enjoying its durability and ease of maintenance. While at it, ensure you contract a reputable kitchen remodelling company to do the installation for you. At Stone World, we have a wide range of quartz countertops to match your taste and preference. Contact us today, and we'll help you select the best one for your kitchen. We are privileged to serve Orlando, Maitland, Clermont, Ocoee, Apopka, and Gotha, as well as the nearby communities. Click to see all our services.  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. Click to see our services.  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:
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! Click to learn more about kitchen remodel.  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:
 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:
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. Click to see our services. |
-Dennis Kolyadchik
My passion is the natural stone industry, and transforming living spaces with beauty and elegance. Archives
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