652426603

How Having Custom Countertops Can Make Your Kitchen Unique

Fri, 07 Jun 2024 11:18:51 GMT

It's hard to imagine a kitchen redesign without considering the countertops. After all, countertops serve a major function while adding to the design. You may wonder how you can make your kitchen look different from the others. If so, the answer often starts with your countertop choice. Here are ways having custom countertops can make your kitchen unique.

Unique Granite

You may know that granite is one of the hardest stones on the planet. In addition to its hardness level, it also stands out by its unique look. No two slabs will ever be the same. According to the National Association of Homebuilders, as many as 73% of homeowners wanted a natural stone countertop like granite, according to a 2021 study. Even if every American had a granite countertop, each slab would have a unique look.

Engineered Stone

Are you familiar with the beauty of quartz? Quartz is an engineered stone gaining almost as much popularity as granite. One of the reasons why many American homeowners have fallen in love with this countertop material is because of its customization properties. Since it's engineered, it can be tailored in color, specs, and other design elements to fit your home design. Therefore, much like granite, your quartz countertops are also created unique.

Custom Kitchen

Finding the perfect piece for your kitchen can be a challenging task. The custom countertop of your dream needs to match your kitchen perfectly. Whether it is quartz, marble, or granite, a countertop can be specially designed to fit your kitchen perfectly. You don't want to take too much attention away from the rest of the kitchen, which is why it is important to find a piece that perfectly flows with the rest of the room.

Cutting Options

Your stone countertops don't always have to be cut in a solid rectangle or a square shape. Make your kitchen counter design stand out with more round or asymmetrical designs. Remember, the stone has to be cut anyway, so you might as well take advantage of having it cut in different shapes beyond a boring rectangle.

As you can see, there's no need for your countertops to be boring cookie-cutter features in your home. When dealing with beautiful stones like granite or marble, you can kick things up with these suggestions. At Provin USA, we offer custom countertops in marble, granite, and quartz. Contact us today for free estimates.

3 Things to Look For in a Countertop Contractor

Wed, 10 Apr 2024 15:21:43 GMT

When it comes to home improvements, you'll want to invest in upgrades that will add both value and functionality to your home. New countertops help to achieve this. To get the most out of this investment, though, you need to make thoughtful choices when it comes to contractors and materials. Here are a few things you should be looking for in a countertop contractor.

1. Experience

You only want to work with professionals that are well experienced. Not only do you want professionals who are experienced with countertop installation, but you also want a business that is experienced in the specific type of counter material that you're interested in. There are many countertop materials to choose from. According to the National Association of Home Builders, a 2021 study found that 73% of home buyers wanted a granite or natural stone countertop in a new home. Be sure to ask about specific experience with materials before hiring a countertop contractor. Finding a well-established company can also be a great demonstration of their experience. For example, if they've been around for multiple decades, you know they've encountered many projects.

2. Price

In order to make the best choices when it comes to kitchen countertops, you'll want to know about pricing upfront. Not only does this give you the chance to get some idea of how much your project will cost you, but it also gives you an opportunity to get to know the business better. You'll get a good idea of how they handle customer service while scheduling a quote and interacting with the team during this consultation. Luckily, many countertop contractors offer free estimates to help with this.

3. Reputation

You'll also want to work with a countertop contractor that has a good reputation in your community. Pay attention to what others say about the company. One way to check on this is by looking at the reviews of the company. You can typically find this through websites like Google reviews or even on the contractor's website itself. You can also ask friends, family, or neighbors if they have had an experience with a particular company and see what their experience was. Hearing firsthand from customers is a great way to learn about the business.

These are just a few things you should look for when hiring a countertop contractor . If you're looking for professionals in your area, please contact us at Provin USA today. We have over 30 years of experience and are eager to help.

4 Things You Didn't Know About Your Granite Kitchen Countertop

Sun, 17 Dec 2023 01:15:59 GMT

You chose granite countertops for your kitchen for a good reason - they're gorgeous, durable, and timeless. But your stunning granite slabs hold some secrets you probably never knew! Here are four fascinating facts you likely didn't know about your granite kitchen countertop.

1. Ancient History

Granite is an igneous rock that forms deep beneath the Earth's surface. According to the National Park Service, it's believed that it's the oldest igneous rock in the world, having been formed as long as 300 million years ago. It consists of interlocking mineral crystals like quartz, feldspar, and mica, which give granite its speckled appearance. This rock forms when magma cools far below ground, causing the minerals to crystallize. The unique colors and patterns of each granite slab tell an ancient geologic story.

2. Resistance to Heat

One major bonus of granite is that it can take the heat. Granite forms under extremely high heat and pressure, so it can handle your hot pots and pans. The high silica content makes it highly resistant to heat damage. You can briefly place hot cookware right on the counter without worrying about marks or cracks! This makes granite an ideal surface for avid cooks like you.

3. Stain Resistance

In addition to shrugging off heat, your granite kitchen countertop is stain-resistant. The dense minerals prevent liquids from penetrating the surface. Juices, wine, oil, and other potential stains don't easily absorb into granite. The polished finish also makes it tough for grime to accumulate. But oils can stain if left too long, so prompt cleanup is key. With proper care, you can keep those granite counters gorgeous for decades.

4. Eternal Elegance

Granite delivers timeless elegance and durability. While other solid surfaces need to be replaced every few decades or so, your granite can realistically last a lifetime. It won't chip, crack, or show major signs of wear and tear. Your counters will maintain their sophistication and natural beauty year after year, never going out of style.

Your granite counters offer much more than good looks! The unique geological backstory, heat resistance, stain resistance, and enduring elegance provide practical advantages that benefit your busy kitchen. If you're looking to have a new granite kitchen countertop installed, let us help. Call Provin USA today to get started.

A Close Look at the Most Popular Countertop Stones

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 13:04:54 GMT

Kitchen countertops are an essential part of every kitchen. They provide ample space to work and prep for your meals. Countertops also contribute significantly to the room's aesthetic, so most homeowners upgrade them when remodeling.

One of the most popular countertop materials is stone. In fact, according to the National Association of Home Builders, about 73% of home buyers in 2021 stated they wanted granite kitchen countertops or other natural stone materials in a new home. Keep reading to learn about the most popular stones for new countertops.

Granite

Granite is a natural stone formed deep within the Earth. This natural material provides timeless elegance that complements various decor styles, from contemporary to classic. It's also naturally resistant to scratching, excessive wear, and heat.

Granite kitchen countertops resist bacteria when properly sealed, making them an exceptional choice for the kitchen. However, it must be appropriately sealed annually, or it will absorb spills, and stains are often permanent. With all these benefits also comes a higher price point. Keep in mind that granite is one of the most expensive materials for countertops.

Marble

Marble is another popular stone option, instantly adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the kitchen. However, you have to be careful with this material. Heat can damage it, so you'll need to make sure you don't set hot pots on it. This stone is also more absorbent, so it's important to clean spills immediately and ensure it's adequately sealed each year.

Quartz

If you're looking for a stone with a unique, speckled appearance, quartz is a great option to consider for your kitchen. Not only does quartz look great as a centerpiece, but it's also naturally resistant to scratches and stains, even if you forget to seal it for a few months! That's because quartz, unlike other stones, is naturally a non-porous material. This is due to its crystalline structure, formed by a tightly-ordered lattice of atoms that form the rigid composition of the stone.

Now that you know all the qualities of these beautiful stones, you may be interested in purchasing brand-new quartz or granite kitchen countertops . You've come to the right place! Our experienced staff at Provin USA can work with you to find the best choice for your kitchen. Contact us today to get started with a free estimate!

6 Reasons Your Kitchen Could Use a Natural Stone Countertop

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 14:03:40 GMT

Natural stone countertops offer a timeless beauty that homeowners love. According to Remodeling.net, about 57% of prospective home buyers wanted granite or natural stone countertops in 2019. Several things make these countertops more compelling than other options.

1. Aesthetics

The natural aesthetics provided by a custom countertop install remain unrivaled by faux stone. Stone countertops are available in natural textures with unique veins, ensuring that you have a gorgeous countertop that isn't replicated next door. Various colors like red or purple are available to ensure your counter is cohesive with the rest of the kitchen decor.

2. Durability

Stone is known to last years, while more affordable options like laminate quickly need to be replaced. Natural stone does not chip or scratch easily when properly maintained, ensuring you won't have a messy kitchen. Instead, you can trust that your new countertop will last until you're ready to replace it.

3. ROI

Homeowners that plan to sell their house in the future should always consider the return on investment when upgrading their home. A custom countertop install with a natural stone countertop instantly increases the value of your home. The aesthetic appeal will help your house sell faster after you put it on the market, too.

4. Nonporous

Most stones are naturally nonporous surfaces. Those that are slightly porous are often treated to make them more nonporous. This means they will not absorb things like other materials, leading to fewer bacteria in the kitchen. Stone being nonporous also decreases the chance of your gorgeous countertop getting stained when someone spills something.

5. Low Maintenance

Natural stone countertops are a breeze to maintain. They need regular sealing every few years to enhance durability and ensure they remain nonporous. Aside from that, regular cleaning with a mild soap and water mixture is all you'll have to do. Properly sealed countertops don't absorb stains so you don't have to scrub all day.

6. Eco-Friendly

The natural stone used during a custom countertop install comes directly from the planet, eliminating the energy needed to produce synthetic materials. Many of these materials are recyclable as well. When you're ready for a replacement, ask a local company if they can reuse the old stone from your countertop to ensure it's properly recycled.

We offer various services to homeowners interested in natural stone countertops or floors. Contact us at Provin USA to learn more today!

4 Things to Consider Before Choosing Your Countertop Material

Mon, 05 Jun 2023 15:30:39 GMT

Choosing the ideal material for a custom countertop install can be overwhelming. Granite countertops remain the most popular, with 64% of new homes having this type of countertop, according to Treehugger. However, granite countertops are far from the only option. Marble countertops remain popular, as does quartz. There are many things to consider when choosing a custom kitchen counter, and here are just a few things to keep in mind.

1. Stain Resistance

Some materials are more stain resistant than others. Granite is typically coated with a stain-resistant seal before being installed to make it particularly strong against staining. In our experience, this coating can easily last five to 10 years. Other stone countertop materials like marble often don't receive this. Because they are porous surfaces, they're more likely to absorb things and stain, but marble also has many unique benefits that may outweigh this.

2. Color Selection

Different materials will have a different range of colors to choose from. Granite and quartz are very versatile when it comes to color options, whereas marble can be a bit more limiting, but people tend to prefer it in its natural white and gray state anyway. If you have a specific color in mind, be sure to talk to your contractors about which material is best suited for it.

3. Durability

Granite is a popular choice because it is highly durable. Accidentally scraping it with a knife is unlikely to leave lasting damage. Marble is also difficult to mark, but it's still a bit softer than granite. Be sure to talk to your counter installation company about which materials they recommend if durability is particularly important to you.

4. Maintenance

Quartz is the best stone option if you're looking for a maintenance-free countertop. Granite will require sealing every few years, but the maintenance is still minimal. Decide what kind of maintenance you're able to keep up with before choosing a countertop because you don't want to make the investment if you can't take care of it properly.

Before paying for a custom countertop install, speak with professionals about the types of countertops available. A person with experience in the custom countertop install department will be able to help you select a countertop that suits your needs. Contact Provin USA today to discuss what type of countertop is best for your kitchen!

How to Care for a New Granite Kitchen Countertop

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 10:44:14 GMT

Granite is a natural stone that comes in a wide array of colors and vein variations. Many people decide to use it in their kitchen countertops to give their homes a classic, elegant look. In fact, according to Treehugger, 64% of new homes have granite countertops. If you're preparing to install a new granite kitchen countertop, you may be wondering how to properly care for it. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Get Your Granite Sealed

After installing a new granite countertop, one of the first things that you want to do is to have the granite professionally sealed. Granite is porous, and it will absorb liquids. This can lead to stains or discoloration. Sealing your granite helps to minimize staining while also making your counter easier to clean. While there are sealing products you can buy to seal your granite yourself, these products are not as long-lasting as those that the pros use, so this is a job you should leave to professionals.

Learn How to Properly Clean the Countertop

Once your new granite countertop has been sealed, you should take the time to learn how to properly clean it. In most cases, a granite countertop simply needs to be wiped down with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, such as a dish rag. You should also periodically use a stone cleaner to restore shine and luster. Avoid using any acidic cleaners or any abrasive cleaners, as they can discolor and/or scratch your countertop.

Use Products to Protect Your Countertop

The final way to care for your new countertop is to use products that help protect your investment. For example, you should never place hot items directly on the granite, so be sure to use trivets to protect your counter against heat. You should also use coasters to prevent spills and a cutting board to prevent scratches. These items will help your new granite kitchen countertop stay in good shape for years to come.

It's important to know how to properly care for a granite countertop. Maintenance is vital to ensure that your countertop doesn't get damaged and looks great for years to come. Now that you understand the steps you'll need to take in order to keep a granite kitchen countertop in good condition, you're ready to invest in this stunning kitchen upgrade. Contact Provin USA today to request a free estimate on your granite kitchen countertop installation.

How to Prepare For Custom Countertop Installations

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:15:15 GMT

According to Rock Doctor, the world's oldest type of igneous rock, formed as many as 300 million years ago, is granite. This is just one reason that granite is a longtime favorite of homeowners. Of course, it's not the only option, as there are many wonderful natural stones to choose from when designing your custom countertop installations. If you're getting ready for new counters in your kitchen, here are a few tips to help make the process go smoothly.

Clear Off Your Countertops

It may sound obvious, but this is a simple step that can be easily overlooked in the hustle and bustle of daily family life. Putting away any countertop appliances like coffee makers and air fryers also ensures that they are protected during the installation process. Custom countertop installations are often a job that creates a lot of dust and debris. Removing as much as you can from the open areas before the installation begins can help save you some time and effort to clean it up afterward.

Put Down Tarps or Drop Cloths

Workers will be coming and going in and out of your kitchen and home during the installation. When you put down floor coverings before the work begins, you'll be able to ensure that your floors are protected from dirt and debris. Taking care of this task before the project starts will also help you save time. Direct the crew to the path that you want them to take, and advise them of any areas that they should avoid.

Create a Temporary Kitchen

Unfortunately, your kitchen is going to be out of commission during the entire installation process. If you have the space, it could be a great idea to set up a temporary kitchen for use. Setting up a coffee station in your dining room will help you maintain some semblance of normalcy while your kitchen is a no-go zone. The installation can also be a great excuse to not have to cook at all if you and your family are okay with dining out or having take-out for however long the process takes.

Our team of professionals makes sure that all of our custom countertop installations exceed our customers' expectations. If you're ready to upgrade the counters in your kitchen, give Provin USA a call and schedule a consultation today. We look forward to seeing you soon!

The Top Benefits of Granite Countertops

Fri, 27 Jan 2023 17:12:52 GMT

When you're remodeling your kitchen or bathroom, choosing the right countertops can be tough. If you're considering granite countertops , then check out some of these key benefits of granite that homeowners enjoy.

Easy Maintenance

Certain types of countertops are difficult to clean, especially if there are grout lines between individual tiles. Granite is easy to maintain because it's a smooth, flat surface. When you're ready to clean your granite counters, all you have to do is take a wet rag and wipe them down. Granite is resistant to staining and other messes, so it's easy to clean up with a simple rag.

Durability

You don't want to replace your expensive countertops too often, and you don't have to with granite. Granite lasts a lot longer than many countertop materials, and it's pretty hard to damage granite badly enough that it needs to be replaced. If you want your countertops to last as long as possible, then granite is a smart choice.

Style

Granite is also one of the top choices when it comes to style. According to Treehugger, about 64% of new homes have granite countertops, making them the most popular option for new homes. If you want your kitchen to have that traditionally beautiful look, then granite is the way to go.

Variety

Everybody has different preferences, and granite really lets you get into your personal preferences. Granite countertops are available in a wide range of colors and styles, so you can find countertops that look perfect in your kitchen. You also don't have to worry about having the generic look that you see in some popular building materials.

Easy Repairs

If something does happen to your granite countertop down the road, then you can always get it fixed. Granite is easy to repair with a bit of putty that matches the tone of the countertop, so you don't have to worry about replacing a whole slab of granite because of one small chip.

If you want the best for your kitchen, then granite is near the top of the list. Granite countertops are stylish, durable, versatile, and easy to maintain and repair. Are you looking for the perfect countertops for your kitchen? Contact Provin USA to learn more about granite today.

4 Key Questions to Ask Your Countertop Contractor

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 18:38:46 GMT

Did you know that, according to Zonda, 57% of people considering purchasing a home prefer natural stone or granite countertops? Since it's a popular choice, hiring a trusted countertop contractor becomes essential for such a complex task. Here are a few critical questions to ask before you hire one.

1. Do You Have Experience?

It's essential to ask them about their experience and references. If they're an established company, it should be easy to get a list of references from past customers. You could also check online reviews from Google or Facebook. Although hiring a newly established company could be fine, it's always better to go with a company with at least some experience.

2. Are You Licensed and Insured?

Any countertop contractor should have the proper licensing and insurance. Make sure they have a license from the state in which they operate. You'll also want to check their insurance policy, which should cover damage during installation or other accidents that may occur during the project. It's typically best to hire a company with these credentials because you otherwise put your home at risk. If the handyman isn't adequately insured, you may be responsible for any damage incurred during the project.

3. How Long Does Installing Countertops Take?

Another vital question to ask your countertop contractor is how long the installation process takes. Knowing the estimated time for project completion can help you adjust daily plans if necessary. It would help if you also considered that certain materials might take longer to install than others. For example, a granite countertop cut to fit your kitchen will take longer than a standard laminate countertop.

4. How Much Does Countertop Installation Cost?

A countertop contractor can give their customers a written estimate on how much a project will cost, but it can be challenging to know if you're getting the best price until you do some comparison shopping. You should ask several contractors for information on their pricing before making a decision. However, the final price ultimately depends on the selected material and labor cost.

These are four good questions to ask any contractor. When you're getting ready to install countertops, ensure you get as much information as possible. This will help you make the right decision. Contact Provin USA today to request an estimate or learn about our options.

Different Types of Finishes for Granite Kitchen Countertops

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 15:31:53 GMT

According to Rock Doctor, granite is the oldest igneous rock in the world. It formed beneath the earth over 300 million years ago. As the most common rock in the Earth's crust, granite provides a durable natural surface that resists heat damage. It's no wonder it's one of the most preferred materials for kitchen countertops! Depending on the finish, however, the stone may require extra effort to clean and maintain when it's cut and polished into countertop form. Here's some information on the different types of suitable countertop finishes.

Suitable Countertop Finishes

Although 15 or more granite finishes exist, only about six work well for granite kitchen countertops . The three most popular finishes are polished, honed, and leathered. These three staples appear most often in kitchens and bathrooms. Flamed, caressed, and bush hammered finishes appear more often outdoors. Let's take a closer look at each option.

Polished Finish

Polished granite looks shiny and reflects like a mirror. Due to this reflectivity, it can cause glare. On the upside, however, a polished surface seals the granite, which prevents water damage and staining. Thus, this counter style requires less effort to clean. All you need to do is wipe it with a soft, damp cloth.

Honed Granite

Honing produces a smooth, less reflective finish. Instead of buffing to a shine, the process ends when the granite feels smooth. However, ending the polishing process without buffing allows water penetration, which can leave the surface susceptible to food stains. Consequently, honed granite needs more frequent sealing than a polished surface.

Leathered Granite Finish

Manufacturers run diamond-tipped brushes over honed granite to achieve this finish. The resulting dimpling adds a touch of elegance. Leathered granite resists stains and hides fingerprints, making it an excellent choice for homes with small children.

Flamed Granite Kitchen Countertops

According to Rock Doctor, manufacturers apply extreme heat to the granite to burst the crystals in the rock. The process mutes the color while creating a rougher surface. Typically, flamed granite works best for outdoor kitchens.

Caressed Surfacing

After flaming, caressing involves polishing the raised areas to bring back their shine. The process seals the countertop's pores, restoring stain and moisture resistance. Caressed granite combines sophistication and rustic charm, which makes it terrific for farmhouse-style kitchens.

Bush Hammered Granite

Bush hammered granite uses a tool that resembles a meat tenderizing hammer. The process adds texture while muting color. As a result, bush hammered granite requires more care than other surfaces. In addition, dirt and debris fill the dimples, which can create cleaning challenges. This is something to keep in mind if you're considering this type of countertop.

If you're still struggling to decide what style of granite is best for you, contact Provin USA today. We'll help you find the perfect fit!

How to Choose a Material for Your Custom Countertops

Mon, 25 Jul 2022 12:59:28 GMT

Choosing the right material for your custom countertop is crucial. It can make or break the look of your kitchen. The best way to choose the right material is to consider what you want to achieve. One of the most common scenarios that involves choosing a custom countertop material is when you're remodeling or updating an existing kitchen. A new countertop can take your kitchen from old and outdated to new and exciting. That said, below are some things that you need to keep in mind before you decide on what type of countertop will work best for you.

Durability

Consider how long you want your countertop to last. If it's going to be used often, it might be a good idea to go with something that can withstand heavy wear and tear over time, such as stone or granite.

Size

The size of the countertop is one of the most important factors in choosing a material. If you plan to install a large slab, you will need to consider how much space is available in your kitchen. If you have limited space, you must be more creative with your design. Smaller counters can be installed without worrying about taking up too much room. However, it is important to remain consistent in the material you choose from small counter to small counter. Otherwise, your kitchen will feel unbalanced.

Surface

Many different surfaces such as granite, quartz, stone, and laminate (made from composite materials), are available for purchase. Each of these surfaces has its benefits and drawbacks. You will want to choose one that matches your style, preferences, and budget. Granite is usually more expensive than other materials. However, it also looks more impressive than other materials. This is one reason why granite countertops are by far the most common. According to Treehugger, granite accounts for 64% of new home construction.

The factors above should be considered when choosing a material for your custom countertops. The material you choose will help shape the overall appearance of your kitchen. Therefore, it's an important decision to make. Do you need custom countertops for your home? Don't hesitate to reach out to Provin USA today!

3 Reasons to Upgrade Your Kitchen With Granite Countertops

websites@hibu.com (Hibu Websites) — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 16:10:11 GMT

It is typical for almost every modern homeowner to want to design their kitchen in a manner that adequately fits their taste. After all, the kitchen is often the heart of a home, as it's a space family members can gather and make memories with one another. With countertops being arguably the most important part of any household kitchen, much attention is typically paid to their functionality as well as what they look like.

If you're considering a complete kitchen remodel or are prepping for a fresh countertop installation, a classic granite kitchen countertop is a great option to explore. Here are three reasons why you should choose granite countertops.

Easy Maintenance

One major concern most homeowners have when it comes to selecting a choice material for their kitchen countertop is how easy it is to clean. Kitchens are often one of the messiest rooms in the house, especially if you do a lot of cooking. The tough nature of granite makes it resistant to not only stains but also heat and etching. Therefore, when you install a granite kitchen countertop, maintenance and stain removal would be one less thing to worry about.

Unique Appearance

Because granite is a natural stone, it can come in a number of colors and varieties. Due to how granite is formed, every piece can be incredibly unique, as the composition of the stone may change based on where it was sourced and which other rocks and minerals have been included in its formation. There are certainly common looks for granite countertops, but, depending on your budget and the size of your space, you can find truly unique slabs of stone for your kitchen.

Durability

Granite is an igneous rock, which means that it has been formed underground as minerals like quartz and mica are heated to become magma. National Geographic notes that igneous-type rocks, like granite, are created as magma cools slowly and hardens. Given the conditions of granite's creation, it is an incredibly durable material. Once mined and polished, you can expect your granite kitchen countertop to hold up in your kitchen for many years to come.

Granite kitchen countertops, overall, improve the general appearance of your kitchen. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), countertops made from granite or natural stones were preferred by 57% of prospective homebuyers in 2019. There are certainly a number of reasons why new homeowners would want granite countertops, but if you're looking to not only improve the style of your kitchen but also the overall value of your home, then consider upgrading your kitchen with granite countertops.

New kitchen countertops are an easy upgrade for any home, especially when you choose to work with professionals. If you're ready to transform your kitchen call us today!