Granite (Boston Granite Exchange)

Granite countertops have long been a popular choice for kitchens and bathrooms, thanks to their durability and natural beauty. However, many misconceptions still surround this material. To help your clients make an informed decision, here are nine common myths about granite countertops debunked.

1. Granite Is Prone To Cracking

One of the most persistent myths about granite is that it’s easily cracked or chipped. In reality, granite is one of the hardest natural stones available, making it highly resistant to damage. Under normal use, granite countertops are unlikely to crack or chip. As long as proper care is taken during installation and everyday use, granite countertops will remain durable for years.

2. Granite Is Too Expensive

While granite may have been seen as a luxury material in the past, it’s now available in a wide range of prices, making it accessible for many homeowners. The cost of granite depends on factors like the stone’s origin, color, and rarity, but there are plenty of affordable options that still provide the stunning look and durability granite is known for. Plus, the long-lasting nature of granite makes it a smart investment for your home.

3. Granite Is Hard To Maintain

Some people believe that granite requires constant maintenance to keep it looking its best. However, granite is relatively low-maintenance compared to other countertop materials. Sealing your countertops periodically is usually enough to keep them protected from stains and spills. Regular cleaning with a mild detergent and water is all that’s needed for daily upkeep.

4. Granite Stains Easily

Another common myth is that granite countertops stain easily. While it’s true that granite is a porous material, when properly sealed, it is highly resistant to stains. Most spills, when wiped up quickly, won’t leave any lasting marks on your countertops. Even substances like wine, coffee, or oil can be easily cleaned from a sealed granite surface. 

5. Granite Is Too Heavy For Your Cabinets

It’s often assumed that granite countertops are so heavy that they can’t be safely installed on standard kitchen cabinets. While granite is indeed a dense and heavy material, most standard cabinets are built to support the weight of granite countertops without issue. Professional installers will ensure the proper support is in place so that your countertops are securely installed.

6. Granite Harbors Bacteria

There’s a misconception that granite countertops are unhygienic and can harbor bacteria. When sealed properly, granite is highly resistant to bacterial growth, making it a safe and sanitary option for your kitchen. 

7. Granite Will Go Out Of Style

Granite has been used for centuries, and its timeless appeal ensures that it won’t go out of style anytime soon. The wide range of colors and patterns available means you can find granite that compliments any kitchen or bathroom design. 

8. Granite Requires Harsh Cleaners

Some believe that you need specialized, harsh cleaners to properly clean granite countertops. This isn’t true. In fact, harsh chemicals like bleach or acidic cleaners can damage the surface of your granite. Instead, mild soap and warm water are all you need for everyday cleaning. 

9. All Granite Looks The Same

Many assume that all granite countertops look alike, but granite is a natural stone, which means each slab is unique. With a wide range of colors, veining patterns, and textures, granite can vary significantly from one piece to the next. This uniqueness allows homeowners to choose a slab that fits their individual taste and complements their overall design.

Granite countertops remain a popular and reliable choice for homeowners, thanks to their strength, beauty, and long-lasting durability. By debunking these common myths, it’s clear that granite is a fantastic material for countertops that requires minimal maintenance and offers timeless style. For more information or to explore granite options for your construction projects, contact Everest Stone and set up a showroom appointment!

Selecting the right granite countertop thickness is important for both aesthetics and functionality. At Everest Stone, we understand the importance of making the best choice for your kitchen or bathroom.

As a fabricator-first firm, we know that your clients will have lots to consider when choosing their countertops. Here are our top ten tips to help you guide them as they choose the perfect granite countertop thickness.

1. Understand Standard Thickness Options

Granite countertops typically come in three standard thicknesses: 2 cm (3/4 inch), 3 cm (1 1/4 inch), and sometimes 1 cm (3/8 inch). Each thickness offers different benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to understand these options before making a decision.

2. Consider Your Budget

Thicker granite slabs generally cost more due to the additional material and weight. If you’re working with a tight budget, you might opt for a 2 cm thickness, which is often less expensive than the 3 cm option. Keep in mind that 1 cm thickness is rarely used for countertops due to its fragility.

3. Think About Durability

For high-traffic areas like kitchens, a thicker granite countertop is often preferred because it offers greater durability and resistance to breakage. Thicker slabs are less likely to crack or chip, making them ideal for busy households.

4. Evaluate Structural Support

Consider the structural support of your cabinets when choosing the thickness of your granite countertop. Thicker slabs are more self-supporting and do not require as much additional support as thinner slabs, which might need extra plywood or supports.

5. Match Your Design Aesthetics

The thickness of your granite countertop can significantly impact the overall look of your kitchen or bathroom. Thicker countertops offer a bold, luxurious appearance, while thinner countertops provide a sleeker, more modern look. Choose a thickness that complements your design style.

6. Factor in Installation

Heavier, thicker slabs can be more challenging and costly to install due to their weight. Thinner slabs are lighter and easier to handle, which can simplify the installation process. Consider the logistics and potential costs associated with installing thicker granite.

7. Think About Edge Profiles

The thickness of your granite countertop will affect the edge profile options available to you. Some intricate edge profiles require thicker slabs to achieve the desired look. If you have a specific edge profile in mind, ensure that your chosen thickness can accommodate it.

8. Account for Seam Visibility

Thicker granite slabs tend to hide seams better than thinner slabs. If your countertop requires multiple pieces, opting for a thicker slab can help minimize the visibility of seams, resulting in a more seamless and visually appealing finish.

9. Consider Weight Load

Keep in mind the weight load of your cabinets and flooring when choosing granite thickness. Thicker granite countertops are significantly heavier, which can put more strain on your cabinets and floors. Ensure that your kitchen or bathroom structure can support the added weight of a thicker slab.

10. Think Long-Term

While thinner granite countertops might be more cost-effective upfront, thicker countertops generally offer better longevity and fewer maintenance issues over time. Investing in a thicker slab can be more economical in the long run due to its durability and resistance to damage.

At Everest Stone, we only work with fabricators, giving you access to a wide selection of gorgeous granite slabs. Choosing the perfect granite countertops involves balancing aesthetics, budget, and functionality– things your clients will have at the top of their minds.

By considering these ten tips, you can make an informed decision about the slabs you want to stock. Contact us today to schedule an appointment to visit the slab yard and see just what we can do for your inventory.

Wine culture is not just about enjoying a fine glass of Merlot or Chardonnay; it’s about creating an experience, a journey through flavor and aroma that engages all the senses.

And what better way to enhance that experience than by designing the perfect wine-tasting space? When it comes to creating a wine-tasting room or area in a home, the choice of countertops plays a crucial role in setting the mood and ambiance.

Granite, with its timeless beauty and durability, is an excellent choice for crafting a sophisticated and inviting wine-tasting space.

Why Granite?

Granite countertops are renowned for their durability, resistance to heat and scratches, and stunning natural beauty. With a wide range of colors and patterns available, granite allows you to create a wine-tasting space that reflects your clients’ personal style and complements the aesthetic of your home.

Whether your clients prefer the classic elegance of black granite or the warm tones of brown or beige, there’s a granite countertop option to suit every taste and design preference.

Creating the Perfect Wine-Tasting Space

When designing your wine-tasting space, consider incorporating granite countertops in the following ways to enhance the overall experience:

Tasting Bar

A granite countertop makes an excellent choice for the tasting bar or serving area in your wine-tasting space.

As a fabricator, you should provide your clients with access to granite slabs with a polished finish to create a sleek and sophisticated look that will impress their guests.

Inspire them to pair it with bar stools or chairs for a comfortable and inviting atmosphere where friends and family can gather to enjoy a glass of wine together.

Wine Storage

Granite countertops can also be used to enhance the storage area in a wine-tasting space. Install custom wine racks or shelving units with granite countertops to create a stylish and functional storage solution for your wine collection.

The durability of granite ensures that the countertop will withstand the weight of the wine bottles and provide a sturdy surface for organizing and displaying a wine collection.

Decorative Accents

In addition to countertops, consider incorporating granite accents throughout your wine-tasting space to tie the design together.

From backsplashes to decorative insets and trim, granite adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space.

Encourage clients to choose complementary colors and patterns to create a cohesive look that enhances the overall ambiance of the room.

Designing the perfect wine-tasting space is all about creating an environment that enhances the wine-tasting experience and allows people to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of their favorite wines.

With its timeless beauty and durability, granite countertops are an excellent choice for crafting a sophisticated and inviting wine-tasting area in any home.

At Everest Stone, we pride ourselves on providing fabricators with the best of the best. Our granite slabs give you the most flexibility to offer a wide variety of countertop options.

Contact us today with any questions and visit our slab yard and showroom to explore our wide selection of granite countertop options.

Want to keep your granite countertop looking as good as new? With our easy granite countertop cleaning hacks, your countertops will stay just as beautiful as the day they were installed.

Cleaning granite doesn’t have to be complicated, especially when you follow our simple tips!

1. Avoid Harsh Materials

One of the most popular DIY cleaning tips is to use a solution of water and vinegar to disinfect countertop surfaces. But you should never do that with granite countertops. Vinegar can dull the surface and interfere with the seal.

The same is true of bleach, even when it’s diluted. Vinegar is an acid, and bleach is a base, and both acids and bases can damage granite countertops. Instead, choose balanced, gentle cleaners that are designed to preserve your stone’s natural beauty.

2. Clean Granite Regularly

Part of granite upkeep is routine. If you get into the habit of cleaning your countertops regularly, it’s easier to maintain their appearance. You should wipe down your countertops every day to catch crumbs, debris, and water stains. Once a week, or whenever you have a major spill, do a deeper clean.

3. Use Mild Soap and Water

Simple soap and water are often the best cleaners for granite countertops. Mild dish soap is gentle enough to avoid damaging the sealant or the stone itself while still effectively removing dirt, grease, and spills.

4. Keep Your Granite Sealed Regularly

Resealing granite countertops on a regular basis maintains their resistance to stains, moisture, and other damage. The timeline for sealing can vary, depending on use and exposure.

However, the best way to know when to seal granite countertops is to ask the fabricator. They can give you specific timelines and advice for your countertops.

5. Disinfect with Isopropyl Alcohol

If you want to disinfect your granite countertop, use a small amount of isopropyl alcohol diluted with water. It does a great job killing germs and bacteria, and it evaporates quickly, so you won’t get water stains.

6. Avoid Hard Water Stains

Nobody likes the look of water stains on their granite countertops. But if you forget to use a coaster, simply use a soft cloth to buff away the stain. If you get a white residue from hard water, simply make a mix of 1:1 water and isopropyl alcohol and use that soft cloth to scrub away the stain.

7. Use the Right Supplies

The right cleaning supplies go a long way in keeping your granite countertops looking their best. Sure, you could use paper towels—but microfiber cloths and sponges are much more effective at lifting dirt and grime without leaving streaks or scratches, preserving the smooth finish of your countertops.

8. Avoid Scratching

Scouring powders and other abrasive cleaners might make some surfaces shine, but not granite.

Abrasive cleaners will make granite surfaces dull and scratch over time, diminishing their natural luster and beauty. It’s best to use gentle cleaners specifically formulated for granite to maintain its pristine appearance and longevity.

The Bottom Line

Keeping your granite countertops looking great is a labor of love, but it’s worth it to preserve the beauty of the natural stone. And here at Everest Stone, we’re all about providing the most beautiful, unique granite in the business.

If you’re a fabricator interested in buying slabs, we’re the importer for you. We see our fabricators as partners, not just customers, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

Whether we’re helping you choose the right stone or advise your clientele, we are here for you no matter what problem you face. Check out our extensive inventory and contact us today to start working with us!

When you install a custom granite countertop, you’ll likely have slab remnants left over. What should you do with them? After all, you have this beautiful, polished stone—it would be a shame to waste it, right?

With modern CNC machines and stonecutting technology, fabricators can take granite remnants and turn them into gorgeous fixtures for your home or garden. Here are some creative ways to use up your granite remnants.

Unique Counter-Matching Coasters

For a cohesive look that unifies your countertop and other living spaces, turn your granite slab remnants into coasters that perfectly match your countertop. By repurposing leftover material from countertop installations, these coasters not only showcase the natural beauty of granite but also offer a practical and stylish addition to any home.

Each coaster becomes a miniature work of art, mirroring the patterns and colors of the original countertop. Additionally, their durability ensures long-lasting protection for furniture while adding a touch of elegance to any room.

This sustainable approach promotes resourcefulness and reduces waste, making it a win-win for both the environment and interior design enthusiasts.

Decadent Bookends

Stone bookends look sleek and imposing, adding an air of elegance to your shelves. These exquisite pieces showcase the opulence of natural stone, and each bookend boasts unique patterns and textures reminiscent of your high-end countertops.

Crafted with precision and attention to detail, granite bookends elevate any bookshelf or desk, adding a touch of elegance and refinement to the space. The weight and durability of granite impart a sense of grandeur and enduring stability for cherished literary collections.

Or use them to prop up pictures of your beloved family members—granite bookends are a versatile piece of luxury!

Gorgeous Shelving Support

Transforming granite remnants into shelving support adds both functionality and elegance to any space. To achieve this, granite remnants are cut into smaller, uniform shapes and then securely mounted onto the wall as brackets or supports for shelves.

These granite supports provide exceptional durability and exude a luxurious aesthetic with their natural stone texture and patterns. When installed, they create a striking contrast against the wall, showcasing the beauty of the granite while offering reliable support for shelving units.

The result is a seamless blend of functionality and sophistication that enhances the overall design of the room.

Embedded Granite Garden Stones

Repurposing granite remnants as garden stones or stepping stones can bring a touch of luxury to your outdoor spaces and develop a cohesive design aesthetic that brings consistency to your spaces.

Granite is durable even in harsh weather conditions, and its natural beauty adds a sophisticated charm to the outdoor environment. Each granite stone, with its unique patterns and colors, becomes a focal point in the garden, offering both practicality and aesthetic appeal.

Utilizing granite remnants in this way elevates the landscape design, providing an enduring and visually striking feature.

Conclusion

Repurposing granite remnants is a savvy choice that combines sustainability with elegance. Whether crafting bespoke home accents or enhancing outdoor spaces, granite remnants offer durability and timeless beauty.

If you’re looking for the most beautiful granite in Texas, Everest Stone has just what you need. We cater to both fabricators and homeowners, and we have exclusive access to thousands of the finest granite options on the import market. Contact us today to schedule a showroom visit!