Marble and Granite: From the Ground to Your Houston Kitchen Countertop

Posted on January 16, 2012 by admin

The process of countertop formation begins in the quarry, where blocks of stone are cut.  Stone workers use different saws to cut the slabs into thinner pieces.  The saws reach extremely hot temperatures in order to cut thoroughly.  After cutting, the polishers use different tools and methods to administer different types of finish.  Certain tools help polish the slabs into natural and rougher looking countertops, while others will gloss the stone, making it sleeker.

These processes were all done by hand at one point (before computers), making granite and marble manufacturing time consuming and expensive.  Today, Computer Motion Control and polishing machines have made the process much easier.  Of course, in making the process easier and less time constraining, marble and granite have become less expensive and more readily available.

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Houston: How to Properly Choose Granite

Posted on January 16, 2012 by admin

Granite is a popular stone for countertops for a reason. Aesthetically pleasing, it adds lovely color and texture to the kitchen space. Function-wise, it is a tough and hard, thus resistant to external damages such as scratches and chipping. It is even heatproof, so that you don’t have to worry about hot tea pots leaving unsightly marks on the surface. The problem, however, is that there are so many different types of granite and it is hard to determine which one best fits into your kitchen.

To choose the perfect granite, first ask to view the granite slabs in person. Find a local granite provider, such as Avanti Stones in Houston, and make an appointment to inspect the selection of granite slabs. From there, narrow down the selection to your favorites. Take note of the color and textures, and how it would complement the design of your kitchen. If you can, bring along color swatches of your kitchen’s color scheme and hold it next to the granite options to determine which best matches your kitchen. And of course, determine the pricing you can afford. At Avanti Stones, we have a wide variety of affordable and reasonable prices you can choose from to build your dream kitchen that is well within your price range.

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Houston: Top Tips on Choosing Between Marble or Granite For Your Kitchen Countertops

Posted on January 16, 2012 by admin

When designing a new kitchen, one of your chief concerns should be the countertops.  Countertops are not only one of the most noticeable parts of your kitchen, but probably the most telling as well.  The tell of your taste and your style.  Though more expensive than other stones, Granite and marble countertops add a certain elegance that other style countertops lack.

In deciding between the two stones for your Houston kitchen, here’s something to consider: Though it might just be an illusion, lighter color marble countertops make your kitchen appear larger then it actually is.  On the same note, darker colored granite can make a kitchen appear smaller, but more formal.  If your kitchen seems a bit small, think lighter marble for your countertops.

After you decide on either granite or marble, you’ll have to choose on a color. Always keep in mind the colors of the rest of the room, as certain colors mesh well with others, and certain colors simply don’t.  Marble and Granite are expensive, so get a look at as many samples as you can before you decide which will grace your amazing new kitchen.

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How to take care of your white marble countertops

Posted on January 16, 2012 by admin

If you’re thinking marble for your countertops, consider Avanti Stone’s White Carrera. This classic white brightens up the whole kitchen and of course, it looks absolutely stunning. Because of the gentle patterns of Avanti Stone’s white carrera, the whiteness doesn’t appear harsh at all.  Instead, it brings a sense of peaceful softness, making the room appear regal and fresh like a summer breeze.  Here are a few things to keep in mind if you choose this white marble.

Marble is beautiful, but it can stain, though you really have to brutalize it in order to leave a permanent stain. You may have to baby your countertops a tad, but with the way it looks in your kitchen, it really shouldn’t be an issue. Here are a few easy but necessary steps to take care of your gorgeous white marble:

1)      Clean up spills immediately. Never let liquid spills air dry as they will leave water spots.

2)      Resist placing hot, wet or abrasive objects directly on the counter.

3)       Avoid acidic cleaners when cleaning marble.

Ready to deck out your kitchen with marble? Come visit us at Avanti Stones.

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Top Tips For Designing A Luxury Kitchen: Houston Design

Posted on December 23, 2011 by admin

If you’re designing a luxury kitchen, here are a few tips to keep in mind that might help your process. 

1.  Hide The Appliances.  For a clean and sleek look, hide your appliances.  If anything, clutter is the antithesis of luxury. 

2.  Always consider the lighting.  The right lighting can set the right mood.  The mood, of course is entirely up to you.

3.  Don’t be afraid of color! Splashes of color add character, and as long as you don’t overdue it, color can add elegance to your kitchen.

4.  Consider an Island.  Islands are the center hub and most functional area of your kitchen.  Large ornate islands are always classy.

5.  Countertops Design is of the Utmost Importance!  Your countertops are probably the most important areas of your kitchen, so make sure you treat them that way.  Consider all the options when it comes to natural stones, tiles, etc. and be sure to consider the colors and hues as well.  Think about functionality as well as look and be sure to keep up with countertop maintenance.  It’s simple, and a little cleaning, can go a long way.

At Avanti Stones, we not only supply natural stone, we install as well, and we’re also here to answer any questions you might have about home design.  For all your Houston countertop needs, Avanti Stones is here for you.

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Kitchen Countertop Design: Elegant Looks For Your Houston Kitchen

Posted on December 23, 2011 by admin

Certain kitchen countertop stones never go out of style.  These stones, mainly marble and granite, are elegant, sleek, durable and thus…expensive.  Part of the reason these stones are so popular is that they are not only extremely functional in everyday kitchen use, but also, almost timeless in design.

There are a few ways to create a timeless design without having to spend a fortune.  You can Combine materials, which allows for an easy way to get your desired look for less.  Instead of using all granite, for instance, you can use laminates, which almost look identical to the expensive stone.  You can also consider using composite stones as well.  If you’ve decide on marble, you can use use ceramic or porcelain tiles in combination.  Tiles are less expensive marble and granite, and they can help you establish an array of elegant styles. 

At Avanti Stones, we not only supply natural stone, we install as well, and we’re also here to answer any questions you might have about home design.  For all your Houston countertop needs, Avanti Stones is here for you.

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How to Choose a Countertop Design for Your Kitchen

Posted on December 20, 2011 by admin

The most used area in your kitchen is the countertop. That is why it is important to choose the right material for your countertop that is customized according to your needs and desires. For example, a large family with children might require a durable substance for their countertop, while a hip bachelor who mostly orders take-out would prefer a more glamorous surface to match the décor of the house.

The first thing to consider when choosing your countertop is the type of stone. The most popular option is granite as it is elegant yet sturdy and easily maintainable. Marble offers a more sophisticated look, but careless maintenance can lead to unsightly stains. Likewise, Limestone and soapstone look great but need more detailed care.

Cost, of course, is another important factor. How much are you willing to pay for your countertop? Just because it’s pricier does not mean it is a better quality. Laminated or acrylic counters, for example, are much cheaper than natural stone countertops, but are long lasting and easy to clean.

If you’ve made a decision or need help making one, call Avanti Stones for more information on prices and natural stone options. We’ll help custom build the perfect countertop for your lifestyle and home.

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Houston Kitchen Cleaning: Resurfacing Your Marble Countertops

Posted on December 14, 2011 by admin

If you haven’t cleaned your countertops in a quite some time, or  you just moved into a new home with older countertops, you might want to consider resurfacing. If you haven’t kept up with upkeep of your Houston kitchen, you will still be able to make your marble shine like new again.

Over time, substances can hurt your marble countertops.  Acids can change the original color of the marble.  Overtime, normal wear and tear can takes it toll in the form of small scratches or dings as well.  A simple cleaner might not be able to fix your marble, but resurfacing will make it like new.  At Avanti Stones, we can resurface your marble and make your Houston Marble countertops look like new.

We have the ability to use thin diamond cutters, and we can actually remove the outer layer of marble, thus exposing a brand new interior layer.  Your marble will be clean and shiny, and free of dings and scratches.  For all your Marble resurfacing needs, Avanti Stones is the answer

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Houston Kitchen Design: Tips on Keeping Your Marble Marvelous

Posted on December 14, 2011 by admin

Marble is one of the more elegant options in countertop design and choosing Marble for your Houston countertops shows that you have good taste.  Since you’ve already invested in your countertops, you might as well spend the proper time keeping it in tip top shape.  It’s not that time consuming, and it’s not that difficult either.  It’s actually quite simple.

Seal the marble with a protective coating.  This will protect it from scratches and stains.  Every day, make sure you wipe down your marble countertops with a sponge or a wet rag.   Place mats and coasters will keep your marble clean as well.

If your marble incurs scratches, pick up some sand paper from your local hardware store and work your way, with minimal pressure, through the scratches.  When you’re finished sanding, polish the marble.  If you ever need to resurface your marble, Avanti Stones can help you.  For all your marble countertops needs, Avanti Stones is here for you.

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Granite and Marble for Your Houston Kitchen

Posted on December 14, 2011 by admin

When designing a kitchen for your Houston home, your main concern should be your countertops.  Countertops are not only quite noticeable, but they’re telling of your taste and style as well.  Also, let’s not forget about the functionality of countertops. The two most popular natural stones are granite and marble.  Both stones are extremely durable and resistant to almost anything.  They only require minimal maintenance as well.  Once you decide on either granite or marble, you’ll have to choose a color. 

At Avanti Stones, our selection of stone is unmatched, and we have slabs of granite and marble in nearly every color and every hue.  Come by and take some samples to help decide which stone color is best for you.   

At Avanti Stones, we not only supply natural stone, we’re also here to answer any questions you might have about home design.  For all your Houston countertop needs, Avanti Stones is here for you.

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