Blog

In two recent posts, we discussed the Incredible Durability of Caesarstone surfaces as well as The Not So Obvious Benefits of Caesarstone Surfaces. Now we'd like to discuss design solutions for homeowners that want to take advantage of this high performing quartz material while still getting to enjoy having gorgeous granite, marble or other natural stone in their home as well. 

If you are planning a kitchen makeover, or even just considering it, one of your first priorities will be the budget. Your design, layout and selection of materials will almost always be dependent on the cost. Perhaps you are considering a granite countertop, but you’re afraid it won’t fit your budget.
At Marble and Granite Inc. our website offers a wealth of information to help you find the right product for your budget. Our selection of top quality natural stone products is sure to have a product to fit your design at an affordable price, often very competitive with other conventional – and less attractive – products.
When it comes to the budget, our website will take you through the process step-by-step. We provide a detailed project cost breakdown which explains every aspect of the pricing of your project – material, fabrication, installation and profit.
You can browse our complete line of products and see detailed pricing information for each one. Our entire inventory is divided into four budget groups in order to assist you make the best choice for your project.

• The first group consists of budget conscious granite. These particular pieces are readily available and easily processed which enables us to keep the cost very low.
• The second group is made up of reasonably priced granites. The material in this group is still widely available but involves more difficulty in processing.
• The third group of granite slabs includes exclusive stones much less common than the first two groups. Along with reduced availability, the slabs in this group require more complex processing.
• The final group is a very select group of precious stones. These pieces are available in a very limited quantity and the processing involved is extremely difficult.

You have finally found it!  The perfect natural stone countertop for the baking center of your kitchen. The natural stone countertop has an amazing feel and it is visually striking.  It reminds you of the stone countertops in a classic European kitchen, which is what you have always desired for your home. You are just about to make your purchase when a concern crosses your mind - is it really practical and wise to install a white marble countertop in the baking center of your home?  

The short answer is YES!  And you're right, Europeans have enjoyed white marble countertops as baking surfaces for centuries.  However, when choosing white marble countertops for your baking surfaces, there are a few things to consider in preserving its natural beauty and complementing its natural aging process.

Preservation

It is important to remember that, while marble is very hard, it is naturally porous and therefore sensitive to the absorbtion of oils and acidic liquids such as wine and coffee.  While polished marble is quite beautiful and shiny, it tends to lose its shine after some use and does not enhance the natural aging process of the stone.  Therefore, to maintain the look of a white marble countertop, as seen in many European kitchens, it is best to avoid polished marble for baking surfaces and instead choose white marble that has been honed and sealed by a professional.  In addition, you should clean your white marble baking surface soon after use to avoid undue staining.  

Natural Aging Process

For centuries Europeans have come to love white marble countertops for kitchen baking surfaces understanding that these countertops naturally age.  In fact, Europeans take much pride in the look and feel of their aged marble countertops.  Indeed, a well-aged white marble countertop is like a well-aged wine - both are quite rare and valuable.  A beautifully aged white marble countertop is the envy of style-conscious individuals.  Therefore, when choosing white marble for your kitchen, you should embrace this process not forgetting the preservation steps mentioned above.  Although Europeans embrace the "aging" of their white marble countertops, they also take great steps to foster the process by taking good care of the surfaces.  

There is no doubt that white marble countertops are a truly a beautiful and stylish natural stone countertop.  Once you embrace the true beauty of this natural stone countertop, you will expect nothing less for your home. You can see all your options for marbles at marbleandgranite.com and, please don't hesitate to give us a call to answer your questions or give you one of our favorite bread recipes.