27Jun2023

Why Install Granite Countertops for an Outdoor Kitchen?

June 27, 2023

Featured Color: Tauari Leather Granite

Investing in an outdoor kitchen can give you a functional entertainment space, as well as, increase your home’s property value. You have the option to create a simple traditional kitchen, a barbecue island or a multi-function cooking area. When planning your outdoor kitchen, it is essential to prioritize durability, contemporary design and functionality. Incorporating highly versatile granite countertops is a key element in achieving these goals.

Why are Granite Countertops Popular?

Granite countertops possess exceptional qualities that make them an excellent choice for outdoor spaces. Their distinctiveness stems from being a natural stone, ensuring that each countertop is one-of-a-kind. With a vast selection of colors and design possibilities, granite offers unmatched versatility. Moreover, its durability surpasses that of other countertop options, making it a superior choice in terms of performance.

Some reasons savvy homeowners resort to granite countertops are:

Can withstand high temperatures – hot pans will not burn the sturdy material (although it is recommended to use hot pots and trivets)
Granite comes in distinctive patterns and styles
It does not easily scratch
Withstands harsh environmental conditions
Will not dull over time
Easy to maintain and clean
An eco-friendly material
It is aesthetically appealing and skyrockets the value of your home

Cutting Edge Countertops offers an extensive selection of granite countertops serving Toledo/northwest Ohio market, Columbus, Detroit, and Indianapolis areas. Our new Edge Collection™ is an exclusive selection of natural stone slabs that are readily available for a summer installation. Check out our blog for trending granite countertop colors.

Featured Color: Steel Grey

How to Maintain the Beauty of Granite Countertops?

To maintain the beauty of granite countertops, it’s important to safeguard them from harsh external factors. Start by utilizing coverings like awnings or umbrellas to provide sufficient shade. This shields the countertops from excessive heat during hot summers.

Granite countertops are porous and when left unsealed, can absorb spills. Applying a sealer ensures your countertop is not easily absorbent and does not trap moisture – during everyday use or when it rains.

To clean granite countertops, start by wiping up any spills to prevent staining or damage. Clean surfaces with a soft cloth using a mild liquid soap and warm water to remove most residues. For stubborn stains, use a soft non-abrasive bristled brush and scrub lightly. Cutting Edge Countertops recommends customers avoid harsh cleaners or abrasives containing lemon juice or citrus which can etch and dull the finish. Products such as MORE™ Surface Care offers a great selection of stone-safe options such as Stone & Quartz Cleaner + Protector. This cleaner can be purchased in any of the Cutting Edge Countertops showrooms, or look for other products that are safe to use on natural stone.

Do You Want to Install Granite Countertops?

Undeniably, granite is a natural, eco-friendly material with beautiful options that are perfect for kitchen and bathroom countertops. If you are ready to get started on your project, be sure to contact Cutting Edge Countertops for granite countertops or visit one of our six showrooms conveniently located in Ohio, Michigan and Indiana for more sophisticated designs and options.

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16May2023

How Do I Know If It’s Time for New Kitchen Countertops?

May 16, 2023

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Featured Color: Karis by Viatera

Kitchen and bath renovations can be a daunting task, especially within the realm of kitchen countertops. With so many design elements to consider, it can be difficult to determine when to replace and update your existing countertop. Fortunately, there are several ways you can tell when it’s time for new countertops in your home.

Wear and Tear

One of the most obvious signs you need new countertops is if they have become worn or damaged over time. Scratches, chips, burns or even discoloration are all key indicators it might be time for an upgrade. If your countertops have seen better days and no longer match the look and feel of your home, then it’s likely time to start thinking about replacing them with something new and fresh.

Lifestyle Changes

Additionally, occasional cracking or warping also could indicate that a replacement is needed. This is especially true if the cracks become wider over time as this could lead to further damage and potential safety risks down the line. Furthermore, if you find yourself covering up the blemishes on a regular basis – such as through paint jobs or applying temporary fillers – this could mean that you should begin planning for new counters in your kitchen soon.

New Trends

Aside from physical damages, another sign that it’s time for an update is if your current counters don’t make use of modern technology or materials available today. For example, some newer options include surfaces made from quartz which offer superior stain-resistance compared to traditional options like laminate. Countertop materials like these require less maintenance while still providing a beautiful aesthetic that will elevate any space they occupy – making them a great choice for homeowners looking to get more value out of their renovation project.

At Cutting Edge Countertops we understand that renovating isn’t always easy – but deciding when to update your countertops doesn’t have to be complicated either! By following these tips, you should now have a better idea of when it might be time for a replacement and allow you to start planning every aspect of your countertop renovation with complete confidence!

The experienced team at Cutting Edge Countertops can help you get started. To learn more about what to expect from start to finish, follow our guide on the process. We encourage you to visit a showroom near you – Perrysburg, OH; Delaware, OH; Wixom, MI; Noblesville, IN and S. Indianapolis, IN – and schedule an appointment today!

Featured Color: Tranquility by HanStone

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20Apr2023

How To Revitalize Your Quartz Countertops

April 20, 2023

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Featured Color: Aurelia by HanStone®

Imagine. You’re sipping wine with your girlfriends, and suddenly your kids run in! They start to run circles around your kitchen, and in a moment of distraction, your little one jumps on your lap and yikes!…wine spills all over your HanStone Aurelia Quartz countertop. How are you going to clean the stain?

Don’t fret! As quartz countertops are an engineered stone and a non-porous material, liquids are less likely to seep into the stone and form a stain – making it a low-maintenance favorite. However, no countertop is indestructible and that’s where the professionals at Cutting Edge Countertops come in to help!

In order to keep your gorgeous quartz countertops looking new for years to come, follow these simple tips and tricks listed below. Have further questions about your countertops? Visit our blog to learn more or contact us today.

1. Clean your quartz countertops daily

Let’s start off easy: clean your countertops daily with mild soap and water. Generally speaking, a warm and damp microfiber cloth can be used to remove most residue. Use a circular motion when you are cleaning your countertops to make sure you are not leaving any residue behind.

You also can use an ammonia-free glass cleaner or any non-abrasive household cleaner that does not contain lemon, ammonia or bleach. Products such as MORE™ Surface Care offers a great selection of stone-safe options such as the Stone & Quartz Cleaner + Protector. This cleaner can be purchased in any of the Cutting Edge Countertops showrooms.

2. Protect your quartz from stains

To prevent staining, any spills, dirt, grease or oils should be wiped up quickly to reduce the chance of a stain forming.

3. How to remove a scratch from quartz countertops

Those scuffs you think are scratches could just be a mark from a metal pot. Use a white eraser! Softly scrub the mark and see how it disappears!

4. Protect your quartz from direct heat

Many homeowners understand that quartz countertops are heat resistant but this does not mean that you should allow direct contact and exposure to extreme temperatures. In fact, you should minimize exposure to high temperatures in an effort to protect your countertops.

5. Protect your quartz from scratches

It is important to remember that cutting boards are your best friend! No matter the countertop material you have, always use cutting boards! Granite, marble, quartz, etc. should never be used directly without some kind surface protection. You can use coasters, cutting boards, hot-pads and trivets to prevent future damage. It is important to note that through time, your countertops may acquire a sheen appearance, even with the right care and maintenance. You can expect dark countertops to show light scratches easier than lighter colors.

We hope these simple tips and tricks help you keep your quartz countertops looking brand new for years to come. If you have further questions about proper maintenance for all countertops, you can visit Cutting Edge Countertops’ page on how to clean your quartz and more or contact us today at 888.515.TOPS (8677) to visit one of our showrooms in Perrysburg and Delaware, OH; Wixom, MI; and Noblesville and S. Indianapolis, IN.

Featured Color: Aurelia by HanStone®

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17Feb2023

New Colors we saw at the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) 2023

February 17, 2023

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countertops that look like marble, granite and marble, marble alternatives, marble and granite, marble and quartz, marble and rose gold, marble bath, marble counters, marble countertop, marble countertop alternatives, marble countertops, marble kitchen, marble look alike, marble look alike countertops, marble options Blog

The Newest Introductions to Cutting Edge Countertops

This year’s Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) featured new countertop colors from top manufacturers. We were impressed by the vibrant hues, stylish designs and innovative textures displayed – there truly was no shortage of inspiration!

In this blog post, we will be sharing our insights on all the fresh and exciting possibilities with an expanded color palette that popped up at KBIS 2023. Read on to discover hot new colors in kitchen and bath design right now!

Hanstone

Coming from the Latin word ‘Opimus’, the Opimo Collection by Hanstone Quartz presents the abundance of nature’s variety and depth. This new Collection uses the latest technology to create a groundbreaking new chapter in quartz surfaces. This technology captures the depth and translucent qualities of quartzite in a manner that has never been seen in quartz. These new natural color variations offer limitless design possibilities in any space.

Eden

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Patagonia

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Aurelia

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Elba White

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LeBlanc

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Matterhorn

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Odina

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Viatera

Cutting Edge Countertops is proud to announce the newest colors from Viatera for 2023! These colors are the perfect addition to any home or commercial setting, providing durable and beautiful surfaces that will last for years. With an array of stunning colors and styles, you can create a space that truly reflects your unique aesthetic.

The expanded range of earthy hues perfectly complements any interior design, from warm neutrals to bright pops of color. Not only does Viatera offer superior style and durability, but their proprietary technology makes it resistant to staining and scratching. So go ahead and create a space that celebrates your life – with Viatera Quartz!

Allegro

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Calacatta Marina

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Calacatta Verde

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Sonoro Brushed

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Dekton

The Onirika Collection by Dekton® brings a unique and powerful aesthetic to any space with new compact surface options. This Collection is inspired by the beauty of stones and marbled colors, creating an atmosphere of dreamlike serenity. These new color additions provide a palette of hues that feature bolder shades like fiery reds and brighter blues as well as richer more muted tones like deep burgundy and terracotta. The diverse range of options allows designers, architects and builders to create something truly special – a combination of traditional elegance and modern sophistication to transform any space into something truly astonishing. From living rooms to kitchens, bathrooms to offices, this Collection is sure to bring your vision for beauty and style to life with its captivating dream-like quality.

Awake

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Trance

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Somnia

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Salina

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The potential for home renovations using the new colors from Hanstone, Viatera and Dekton are endless. These colorful options can be an ideal choice for anyone looking to make a statement in their home. Imagine merging modern sophistication with classic functionality in a home and kitchen renovation and setting trends that will be discussed for years to come. Start your next project by browsing these new countertop colors and more on the Cutting Edge Countertops website today!

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25Jan2023

The Best Marble Countertop Alternatives

January 25, 2023

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Countertops That Look Like Marble

Have marble countertops been at the top of your list when thinking about your future kitchen or bath remodel? But now that you’re planning and researching you’ve seen the maintenance that marble requires. Marble is a classic natural stone surface and if you don’t mind the maintenance, marble can be a great option for your interior design project. However, if you’re looking for some marble alternatives that offer greater durability, Cutting Edge Countertops has a variety of options to choose from! We have a great list of marble countertop alternatives. Follow along to get the inside scoop on the marble look alike countertop collections and designs!

Quartz that Looks Like Marble

White quartz has been extremely popular in recent years and it’s clear why. These marble look-a-like quartz countertops require less maintenance and offer a great variety in terms of veining. We will be breaking down quartz countertops that look like marble by two groups. First, we will dive into the designs that have polished looks. Then, we will jump into the countertop options that are honed, matte and have a suede finish. As a reminder, quartz stone is not recommended by professionals for outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, the colors could fade due to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Nevertheless, quartz is still a top choice around the world for any interior design that needs a little luxury kick.

Let’s start with the polished looks.

Bianco Calacatta – Combines electric thick veins with a grayish luminous background. Contrast and personality will extend to any space that it touches. It brings a dramatic effect to either a classic or contemporary taste.

Bella by Silestone – Inspired by the world of natural stone, Eternal Bella includes a personal variation of veins and color to create a unique piece.

Allegro – A lively expression of movement and subtle energy, an homage to cheerful, uplifting music. Fluid long golden veins elegantly interplay withshort veins across an elevated white base. Like a beautiful song lifted along by a gentle breeze, Allegro’s stone-like aesthetic, with its polished finish, is a virtuoso performance sure to enliven any space.

Italian Waves – Sophisticated creamy pearl background with grey accent for a classic or contemporary style.

Calacatta Marina – Draws inspiration from the ocean’s vitality, where waves of blues rise, crest and fall with organic beauty. Delicate curvy and jagged pencil veins in two different Navy tones gracefully ascend across a pristine white surface revealing a natural flowing look. Full-bodied wide veins evolve with unexpected fluidity, accentuating natural borderlines as subtle depth and refined pattern variations appear. Fresh and lively, Calacatta Marina brings a splash of daring sophistication to modern and contemporary residential and commercial interior spaces.

Calacatta Natura – Another Calacatta marble look with a whispy linear kitchen modern design.

Calacatta Gold – Patterned with a blueish and grey vein plus golden shades, Calacatta Gold by Silestone is inspired by one of the most desired natural stones in history due to its whiteness. Eternity and elegance.

Silestone Kitchen Eternal Calacatta Gold x

Now, let’s take a look at a few of the honed/matte/suede finish options:

Marquina SUEDE – With a deep black base and bright white veins, “Marquina” is one of the most exclusive and beautiful marbles found in nature.

Statuario Maximus – Luxury is exemplified with bold and dynamic veining sweeping across a soft white base.

Pearl Jasmine – Jasmine is a grey-veined white stone with an essence of extreme purity. Everlasting delicacy and strength.

Calacatta Nuvo HONED – As Caesarstone’s interpretation of natural Calacatta marble, Calacatta Nuvo brings you wide, elegant, cascading, grey veins on a white base. Calacatta Nuvo makes an unforgettable impression and enhances any interior with a touch of high-end indulgence.

Other Marble Look A Like Kitchen Countertops

There are a ton of options for best marble look alike countertops. Compact Surfaces, for example, are thinner format countertops that emerged in the last decade. Compact Surface countertops offer white veining that look identical to marble. In recent years, we have received many inquiries from homeowners and luxury home builders looking for a more affordable countertop that looks like marble stone. Our collections are designed and each countertop slab is individually picked with one thought in mind to exceed your expectations. Next time you are in the market for a remodel and you are interested in a durable and affordable counter that resembles marble, ask about compact surface countertops!

Aura – Inspired by traditional Carrara and Calacatta marbles.

Salina (polished) -Inspired by the whimsical salt patterns that low tide leaves on the sand and rocks. These delicate white ridges are materialized in an asymmetrical pattern of gray veins on a white base that reinterprets the classic elegance of Carrara marble.

Entzo – Inspired in the famous Calacatta Gold, it creates a color that mix gold hues with the characteristic veins of natural marble against a pure white background. Entzo never leaves anybody unmoved!

Marina – Marina (velvet) is inspired by the whimsical salt patterns that low tide leaves on the sand and rocks. These delicate white ridges are materialized in an asymmetrical pattern of gray veins on a white base that reinterprets the classic elegance of Carrara marble.

If you’re ready to view some of these designs in person, we have several convenient locations including: Perrysburg, OH (Toledo area); Delaware, OH (serving Columbus and Dayton); Wixom, MI; and Noblesville and S. Indianapolis, Indiana. Schedule an appointment to visit the countertop showroom nearest you! We look forward to learning about your project and helping you pick the perfect marble-look alike! Make sure to check out our countertop blog for more related content.

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19Dec2022

Home Improvement Trends to Look for and Expect in 2023

December 19, 2022

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Did you know that 59% of homeowners in the US started a home improvement project in 2020?

Home renovations and remodels are all the rage right now. But if you are considering doing some home upgrades, you may wonder: what are the top home improvement trends to consider?

Remodeling your home can be a major headache. Yet, when you have a clear vision from the get-go and work with an experienced home remodeling company, a remodel can make your dreams come true.

If you are searching for inspiration for your upcoming home improvement project, you need to keep reading this guide for the top trends in home improvement.

1. Making Room for Larger Windows

In 2022, a major home design trend is bigger-are-better windows. But adding more windows to your home is not enough to check this trend off your list. Consider adding floor-to-ceiling windows to transform your space, too.

Larger windows will give your home a more luxurious feeling. Plus, all that extra natural light can make your rooms feel bigger and more inviting.

Another tip here is to consider more than your typical square window. Archways are another major interior design trend right now. You could incorporate two trends in one with a unique arched window.

2. The Resurgence of the Mudroom

Mudrooms were all the rage in the early 2000s. But since then, these uber-functional entry rooms have fallen out of favor. Now, mud rooms are back, and they are better and more organized than ever before.

The mudrooms of 2022 feature wall-spanning built-ins (more on these next) with room for shoes, raincoats and even umbrellas. These rooms incorporate sinks for washing up or maybe even double as the laundry room space.

And mudrooms are not only a must-have in and of themselves. These rooms are critical for keeping the rest of your home clean, uncluttered and on-trend.

3. A Renewed Interest in Built-Ins

Speaking of built-ins, this traditional design must-have is back in style for the 2020s. But unlike the useless bookcase-like built-ins of previous decades, the built-ins of the now are way more functional.

Instead, think of built-in cabinets to replace your chunky buffet piece in the dining room. And instead of buying a TV console in the living room, consider a recessed open shelving unit to free up extra space.

Your built-ins do not have to be boring, either. Use contrasting wood for the shelves and drawers, incorporate inlays and onlays or add crown molding for a traditional and elegant look.

4. The Retro-Futurism Design Trend

So, you haven’t heard of retro-futurism when it comes to interior design and home decor? That’s okay because this is the design trend of the future. Retro-futurism will be the predominant style in 2023 and beyond.

But what exactly is retro-futurism? It incorporates modern aesthetics such as geometric patterns, faded fabrics and nostalgic pop art with futuristic themes running through the space’s architecture, technology and lighting.

Retro-futurist homes are ideal for creative people and Sci-Fi lovers alike. And if you do this style right, your home will look trendy for years to come.

5. Bringing the Outdoors In

If the pandemic has taught us anything, it is the importance of feeling close to nature. Perhaps that is why so many homeowners are looking to incorporate nature into their living spaces.

And we do not just mean bringing plants inside. We also mean looking to nature for design inspiration. That could be as simple as utilizing natural materials (stone, linen and wood) or as advanced as changing the blueprint of your home to incorporate more of an organic flow.

A big plus-side to this trend is that nature promotes feelings of relaxation. That way, coming home will always feel like a treat.

6. Eco-Friendly Add-Ons

The eco-friendly movement has finally hit the interior design space. This trend gives home renovators the opportunity to incorporate repurposed materials into their homes.

A way to bring this trend into your home is to choose eco-conscious renovation partners. You can work with companies whose values align with your own and collaborate on a new space you can feel good about.

7. Wellness-Friendly Spaces

Another positive thing that came out of the pandemic is the re-focus on wellness. Many homeowners have been incorporating wellness into their homes.

We are loving wellness-friendly spa bathrooms and tranquil emotional escape rooms. Even modern home library spaces with built-in shelves can be the wellness retreat you have been needing in your home.

Do not forget to address non-design features, too. For example, improving the air quality and flow in your home can help improve your health and even reduce your risk of viruses.

Whether you are trying to make your home look larger, feel more comfortable or be eco-friendlier, this list has a trend for you. But we have only scratched the surface with these seven incredible home improvement trends for 2022!

Are you ready to incorporate one or more into your home remodel project this year? If so, you may be looking for ‘home improvement stores near me.’

Cutting Edge Countertops has six convenient locations in Ohio, Michigan and Indiana! Schedule an appointment today at one of our showrooms near you! Our experienced team will bring your dream kitchen, bathroom or another space to life.

Images taken by Architectural Digest & @Ellewoodinteriors

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12Dec2022

Cutting Edge Countertops Nominated for Fabricator of the Year Award

December 12, 2022

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Cutting Edge Countertops Nominated for Fabricator of the Year Award

Stone World’s Fabricator of the Year Award is notoriously the most important in our industry. Stone World has been honoring this award since 1988, as tradition stands, the winner is honored at StoneExpo in Las Vegas in early February. To say we are humbled, honored and proud to have received a nomination for this year’s award is the understatement. As stated by Stone World, the criteria to qualify for this Award include:

Cooperation in sharing technology with the industry
Willingness to pioneer in the use of new technology
Fostering educational programs for the training of stoneworkers in industry methods
Promoting technological progress through association work

Granite countertops are made of different types of stone and quartzite. The many variations in the materials used to make granite make it ideal for use in a wide range of environments. Granite slabs are designed to be durable and strong. The material is also highly resistant to everyday stains and other scuffs. Keeping your granite countertops looking perfect all the time, however, takes more than just cleaning occasionally. But with the right resealing methods, you can keep them looking brand new for years to come.

Our very own Brad Burns cannot say enough positive things about working in the industry and raves about the people he has worked with along the way. It’s safe to say the Cutting Edge Countertops’ team makes Brad extremely proud – enough to share in the nomination. Brad said, “the stone industry is filled with passionate people who really care about one another and have the drive to make a difference.”

Alongside this nomination, Stone World published a Q&A with Brad, where he notes what sets Cutting Edge Countertops apart from competitors:

“Cutting Edge Countertops was built on the hub-and-spoke model. All projects are manufactured and staged in our Perrysburg, OH, facility with state-of-the-art equipment and technology to ensure consistent quality countertop products. All project components are pulled and packaged together and delivered daily to our regional service centers for local installation teams.

With six convenient locations in the Midwest, Cutting Edge Countertops is well-suited for further expansion through hub-and-spoke, along with available highway infrastructure.

Additionally, at Cutting Edge Countertops we believe in building strong relationships. This includes listening to our customers’ needs and providing a consistent customer experience throughout the Tri-State region.”

Finally, Brad notes this nomination would not be possible were it not for co-founders Brian Burns and Jeff Erickson, “along with each of Cutting Edge Countertops’ dedicated employees who strive to be the best at their craft every day.”

Please, if you haven’t already, take a moment to vote for Brad Burns and the Cutting Edge Countertops’ team for the 2022 Fabricator of the Year Award.

Read more from Brad’s Q&A with Stone World, and learn more about the Cutting Edge Countertops difference at our website today.

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28Nov2022

How to Decorate Your Kitchen for the Holidays

November 28, 2022

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The kitchen is arguably the most-used room of any family home. We use our kitchens several times a day, not just for preparing meals and making snacks, but for getting drinks and doing chores throughout the day.

Despite this, many of us never think to decorate this all-important part of our homes, even with the holiday season approaching. Decorations tend to be focused in family rooms, entryways and living rooms. This holiday season, enhance those beautiful quartz countertops in your kitchen with some uplifting, seasonal decorations!

From ornate cutting boards to miniature Christmas trees, decorating countertops can involve both functional and purely aesthetic elements. Here are some top tips and strategies for decorating countertops.

Keep it Minimal

The first thing to keep in mind when you decorate countertops is that less is more.

Unless you’re a professional designer, it can be tempting to include everything you can think of in your decor. This is especially true when you’re excited to decorate for the Christmas season. But spaces look a lot better with breathing room.

As you find things to decorate your countertops with, try starting with your favorite items and add just one at a time until it feels right. Resist the urge to pile on every decorative item you find at once.

Something simple like a minimalist Nativity can bring the holiday spirit to your kitchen without overpowering the tones in your countertops. Something minimal like this could also double as a beautiful housewarming gift for a family or friend who became a new homeowner this holiday season.

Choose a Color Scheme

Another thing to think about upfront is what colors you want to use in your kitchen. The principle of minimalism applies here, too: it’s usually best to select two primary colors and one accent color and build your design from there.

Of course, the colors you choose for your decor will depend on the colors already featured in your kitchen.

For grey quartz countertops, colors like brown, beige, white and cream work nicely. If your kitchen already has white walls, you may want to focus on brown or beige decorations. Or bring the holidays indoors with snowy accents, giving your kitchen an ethereal finish

The good news is holiday-themed colors like red and green work with just about anything. Still, try to choose colors mindfully, and keep it simple. Choosing neutral colors highlighted with red and green features will not only help decorate your kitchen, but also elevate the overall appearance of your decor.

Bring in Some Nature

No matter what colors you use in your kitchen, you can seldom go wrong by bringing in some nature. This is especially true around Christmas time when trees and wreaths can breathe a new sense of life into your kitchen.

Display Your Culinary Collections

If you collect cookbooks, cutting boards, platters or other culinary items, your countertop is a great place to store and display your collection. As long as you stick to a complimentary color scheme, anything goes!

Acrylic book displays can help keep a clean look on your countertops while displaying favorite recipes for guests to read. If your holiday gifts include a recipe book, make sure to include a stand like this design so your loved ones can still showcase their beautiful countertops.

Create a Beverage Station

No kitchen is complete without a coffee maker. Make yours a centerpiece unto itself by placing stylish, seasonal mugs, sugar containers and other essentials in a neat array in one section of your kitchen.

While our quartz countertops are stain resistant, it’s always a good idea to make sure your beverage station can be easily lifted so you can give your countertops a quick wipe down. Doing so will help keep your countertops sparkling no matter the season!

Custom-Made Gift

Whether you’re decorating for the holidays or bringing a new style into your kitchen, decorating your kitchen with holiday cheer has never been easier. And if you don’t want to show up empty handed to your holiday parties, a few holiday decorations can be the ultimate gift for new homeowners!

If you are looking to beautify your kitchen or bathroom and increase your home’s value this holiday season, be sure to visit a Cutting Edge Countertops showroom. Contact us to schedule an appointment with a Design Consultant today for an extensive countertop selection in Toledo, Ohio; Perrysburg, Ohio; Delaware, Ohio; Wixom, Michigan; Noblesville, Indiana and S.Indianapolis, Indiana!

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17Oct2022

How To Seal Granite Countertops

October 17, 2022

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Everything You Need To Know About Sealing Granite Counters

Sealing granite counters is a process that will allow your granite countertops to shine like new and have a long-lasting life. Many homeowners take into consideration the maintenance granite tops require when weighing the different countertop material options. Although it does require some maintenance, granite is still very much worth it because the natural stone adds value and beauty to your home.

Is Granite Porous?

Is granite porous? This is one of the top questions asked by homeowners looking for great quality countertops for their kitchen and bath. Kitchen remodeling can be a bit pricey so it is important to do your research and ask a professional natural stone expert all the questions you have prior to making your final decision on the kitchen counters you want. Granite is indeed a porous stone that requires sealing to prevent staining from liquids and harm from regular use. But how do you know whether it is time to reseal your granite countertops again? You can perform the water test on your counters to conclude whether you do in fact need to reseal them.

The Water Test To Determine Whether You Need To Seal Granite Countertops

If you are wondering whether your counters need to be sealed all you have to do is perform this easy and simple water test. Follow the steps below:

Take 1/4 of a cup of water and pour it on your granite countertop
Time the water from the moment it was poured till the moment it was absorbed
If the water did not absorb and it repelled instead then this means you do not need to seal
If the water absorbed and there is now a dark spot then this means you should seal granite counters

Granite Water Absorption

Instant water absorption means you should apply a few layers of granite sealant annually and wipe off spills quickly
4 to 5 minute water absorption means you will need multiple layers of sealer but you will only have to reseal it every 3 to 5 years. Before you reapply the sealer make sure to use the water test
10 minute water absorption means you will need to apply a layer of sealer and it may be many years until you will need to reapply
30 minute water absorption or no water absorption at all means there is no need for sealer at this time

How To Seal Granite Countertops

Remember to always test the absorbency of your granite countertops before you seal them. If your counters are absorbing any oils or liquids then a sealer will help prevent any harsh damage to your tops. There is no sealer that is 100% stain proof. A quality sealer will give you enough time to wipe off liquid spills before they stain your countertops. It is important to know that countertop sealer will not make your tops shiny. This is a common misconception. Polishing is what makes your granite counters appear shinier.

Step 1: Perform The Water Test

Refer back to the top of this article to understand and learn how to perform the water test effectively in order to find out whether you will need to seal your granite countertops at this time.

Step 2: Natural Stone Sealer

You will want to search for a sealer made specifically for natural stone so that you will not harm your countertops. Products such as MORE^TM Surface Care has a great selection of stone-safe options such as the Stone & Quartz Cleaner + Protector. This cleaner can be purchased in any of the Cutting Edge Countertops Showrooms.

Step 3: Read The Sealer Instructions

Make sure to read through the instructions and warning labels just for your own knowing. Instructions change from sealer to sealer so be sure to follow them respectfully.

Step 4: Clean Granite Countertops

Cleaning granite countertops is a step you must take and not forget about before sealing them. Make sure to read the guide above on how to properly clean your granite countertops or visit our countertop care and maintenance page.

Step 5: Apply The Countertop Sealer Evenly

Take the spray bottle and spray a generous amount of sealer on the countertop and let the sealer absorb into the granite stone for about twenty minutes (check instructions on the bottle for a time amount).

Step 6: Wipe Off The Sealer

Sometime you may need to apply the sealer a second time. A second coat is necessary for certain sealers so make sure to read the bottle to get the appropriate information on this! Now grab a clean cloth that is lint-free and wipe off the sealer from your countertops.

Step 7: Do Not Use The Countertop For 48 Hours

After following all of the instructions in this guide and the requests made on the sealer bottle make sure you leave your countertops alone for 2 full days.

For more content about kitchen design trends, countertop surfaces, bathroom remodels and more visit our blog. You also can contact the Cutting Edge Countertops team today or schedule an appointment to visit one of our showrooms located in Perrysburg, OH, Delaware, OH, Troy, MI, Wixom, MI, Noblesville, IN and S. Indianapolis, IN to assist you with your kitchen or bathroom renovation project.

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30Sep2022

Getting ready for Kitchen and Bath Month

When it comes to designing a kitchen, bath or any kind of room in your home, there are some things that can change the feel of the space entirely. Countertops are a prime example. Most people will spend time selecting material, colors, styles and designs to make their rooms look new and refreshed.

90% of homeowners say countertops are the first item they look to change when renovating their home. Changing your countertops can give you a whole new look without having to re-paint or install new flooring – and can have a big impact. If you are like most homeowners, you’re probably wondering, how do I get started? Or, how do you know what types of options are available? Well the good news is that this article will cover all these questions and more. So read on for answers!

Begin by Planning

If you are thinking about new countertops, your first step is to begin planning. At Cutting Edge Countertops, we encourage you to view our Inspiration Gallery, along with our Live Inventory to get a feel for what material you may like for your space.

If you are replacing your countertops, we encourage you to take rough dimensions of your current tops. Or, if you are getting new cabinets, it is helpful to have the cabinet dimensions. Then, give us a call to schedule an appointment where one of our experienced Design Consultants will personally meet with you to learn about your project and help you in selecting a countertop material type, color and finish perfect for your lifestyle and design preferences. As we move through the details of your project, our experienced Design Consultant will offer their product knowledge and inspire with ideas and on-trend information.

Start Small

Some homeowners like to start with a small project such as updating an existing bathroom vanity top, or giving a laundry room or mudroom a facelift. Adding a new countertop will update the look of the space, without having to undergo a complete remodel.

Cutting Edge Countertops offers a variety of countertop materials including natural stone (granite, quartzite, marble and soapstone), quartz and compact surface. Explore what material type is best for how you use your space. The possibilities are endless!

Consider your Sink

Updating your sink can be one of the easiest ways to modernize your space. Cutting Edge Countertops offers a variety of sinks — from classic to contemporary — and can be paired with almost any cabinet style or countertop material. Envisioning how a new sink can change the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom has never been easier. You can easily customize the space of your dreams to show how your new countertops will look with AI tools that make your imagination a reality.

Spruce up your Surroundings

You must think carefully about the surrounding area if you want your home to come to life. For modern homes, you want to keep things simple and sophisticated and can choose a subtle, neutral wallpaper or a statement monotone paint color. Find inspiration in this year’s Color of the Year.

Another element that plays a part in modern homes is the focus on lines. Your countertops are great for adding depth and texture to the space, so you don’t need to flood the room with hundreds of decorations.

You can use the countertops as a focal point to draw attention to the linear structure and layout of the room. And, if you feel like adding a dramatic touch, you can opt for a statement stone that is sure to add a certain flare for anyone bold enough.

Ultimately, the best way to show off your new countertops is to keep the space open and have lots of natural light. Ideally, you can leave the windows open and have the sunlight streaming in throughout the day.

October is Kitchen & Bath Month and is all about visual inspiration. As you flip through your favorite magazine or home decor website, be sure to take photos or clip your favorites. Creating a refreshed look at any time of the year can feel like a breath of fresh air – and Cutting Edge Countertops offers many styles and resources for your project, whether it be large or small. Let us help you achieve your dream space. Contact us today to start planning your next home project!

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