Deciding the type of countertop for your kitchen or bathroom is a big choice. There are so many options. How do you know what to pick? Two of the most popular choices today when people are selecting new countertops are granite and quartz. Is one better than the other? Is one better for your lifestyle or taste? You can be the judge of that. We will compare the two types of countertops to help you select the best for your preference and habits. Is one more durable than the other? Does one handle heat better than the other? These are answers you should know before deciding on a particular type so you know what you want and how to treat these particular countertops.

Natural

Granite wins in this category as it is 100% natural stone that is sliced in a quarry, cut to fit each kitchen and polished smooth. Quartz is an engineered, man-made stone consisting of 93% natural quartz stone but then leftover 7% are coloring and resin materials. The combination of quartz and resin are combined to create superb strength in the quartz. While both options are made of stone, some feel the authenticity of 100% natural granite stone gives it the upper hand. It is a matter of preference in this area.

Durability

In the competition of durability, granite has been around much longer than quartz. Granite has withstood the test of time as it has been around for many decades while quartz is a relatively new kid on the block. Here is how both compare in these durability factors:

• Chips and cracks: Though granite is an extremely hard stone, in comparison to quartz, it is more prone to cracks and chips during installation. Quartz is stronger on the durability scale as it resists cracking and chipping over time. Both are still excellent options in the kitchen, though quartz ranks slightly higher when it comes to likelihood of chips and cracks.
• Scratches: Both options are scratch resistant but not indestructible, scratching is still possible and care should be taken. You can cut with knives on both surfaces but to keep these countertops in peak condition, a cutting board is advised, also since it dulls knives to cut on stone.
• Heat: Granite takes a lead in this area as it handles heat better. Quartz can handle heat to some degree but for a long period of time or at high temperatures, the resin within the quartz, can discolor and turn white. Granite on the other hand can withstand very high temperatures as it is natural stone.

Both quartz and granite have their weak spots in the durability area but on the whole, these two options are perfect choices for the kitchen and bathroom.

Cost

When it comes to countertops, both quartz and granite are expensive options and to get quality, you will need to spend a bit of money. The least expensive countertop option is laminate but everyone knows that the beauty in that option is nonexistent in comparison to granite or quartz. Both of these stones are expensive but for long lasting quality, the price tag is worth it. It also depends on the type of granite you select. Some granite slabs can price lower than quartz but as the quality increases, the price tag exponentially goes up. Rare and unique types of granite can be quite costly. Granite prices range between $45 to $75 per square foot comparing to quartz prices, which range between $55 and $85 per square foot. Both these stones can have much higher prices if higher end stones are chosen.

 Popularity

Granite has been the popular choice in countertops for decades. The mere mention of a house selling with granite countertops is a huge selling point. Adding granite to a home increases its value instantly. However, quartz is a trendy choice in recent years. It is in style and can be made in many different colors to match. Due to its demand, it is equally as desired as quartz. Granite is timeless and the appeal is always an attraction to potential home buyers. Upgrading to either option is sure to increase the value in your home, especially if you upgrade from the less pleasing laminate countertops.

Maintenance

Granite tends to be porous and needs to be sealed every 1-3 years to protect it from stains. Keeping it sealed helps keep its lustrous shine and beautiful quality it had on the day it was installed. If it is not sealed, over time it can become susceptible to stains absorbing in the tiny pores and capillaries within the stone. Quartz on the other hand, is nonporous and since it is an engineered stone it does not need to be sealed. In this aspect, quartz requires less maintenance than granite.

Cleanliness

Both countertop types in the granite vs. quartz debate are easy to keep clean. Though not as likely as other countertop options, granite can be porous if not sealed correctly and can absorb stains. However, it is very hardy and resilient to chemicals thus you can clean it with just about anything. Comparing quartz, it is nonporous and does not harbor germs, though careful attention should be paid when it comes to the type of chemicals used. Warm soapy water is perfect to clean quartz, but it is not as tolerant to harsh chemicals. Special care needs to be paid when cleaning these countertops.

Appearance

Granite is natural, thus you will see variations in the pattern and veins of color and natural, unique textures are-one-of-a-kind. Quartz is manufactured in a similar way every time, thus the designs and patterns in the stone are more uniform. One choice is not better than the other in this situation, it depends entirely upon your preferences.

 Weighing all the options

When it comes to granite vs. quartz, looking at your lifestyle, the price you want to spend and the overall look, you picking the type of countertop that is right for you should be easy. Our staff is happy to help you select your favorite color and style in the stone you desire. Our showroom is stocked with many varieties and colors to make your selection easier. We are excited to serve you.

The post Granite vs. Quartz; Compare the two most popular Countertop choices appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

When it comes to countertops, Arch City Granite works to bring you the best stone countertops in St. Louis. We work with a lot of stone types and have found that there are a lot of myths and urban legends about different types of countertops. While it is true that not all stone countertops are equal, each has unique properties that can make them perfect for your home. We have a lot of different stone varieties to choose from and we want to help you make the right choice for your home, so here are some facts about stone countertops.

Stone Countertop Facts

Marble: Have you heard that marble countertops are super expensive? Well this is not always the case. The cost of marble always goes back to supply and demand. If you choose a type of marble that is rare, you will pay a higher price for it. Other types of marble are common and you will find their price range to be similar to other types of countertop.

Another misconception about marble is that since it is porous, it harbors bacteria. The fact is that marble is naturally antimicrobial and antibacterial. This means that the stone itself does not create a good habitat for bacteria. You can further reduce bacterial habitat by cleaning your counter with mild antibacterial soap. If you have heard that vinegar is bad for marble, you heard right. Marble reacts with acids, so the acetic acid in vinegar can etch the stone. Marble is a gorgeous stone and its cool surface will add beauty to your home like no other type of stone.

Soapstone: One of the biggest misconceptions about soapstone is that it is a super soft stone. While it is true that soapstone is used for sculptures because it is soft, there is a reason. Soapstone for creating sculptures has a lot of talc in the rock and that makes it soft. The soapstone used for you countertops has a low percentage of talc which makes the stone much harder. While soapstone might not be as hard as granite, homeowners who purchase soapstone countertops love the look. Soapstone is very forgiving, if you accidentally chip or scratch the surface, soapstone can be sanded down. That isn’t something you can do with granite.

One misconception about soapstone is that it requires a lot of work. This isn’t true. Some homeowners like to have a consistent look with their soapstone, so they rub it down with mineral oil or a soapstone wax. This isn’t something you have to do. Other homeowners like the feel and look of the natural stone, so they do not wax it. Untreated soapstone will develop a patina overtime, but many people feel this adds character and color to their countertops. If you decide to go with a soapstone countertop, you can make the decision for yourself.

Granite: Granite is very popular because it of its appearance and durability. Unfortunately, the idea that it is indestructible has begun to surface. First off, granite is not indestructible. It is super durable and is very resistant to scratches, but if you drop a large pot on your granite countertop, there is a possibility that you can chip the surface.

Another misconception about granite is that requires a lot of upkeep. You might even hear that you will need to reseal the surface every few months. This isn’t true at all. A granite countertop is sealed, but you can go years before you need to reseal it. The best way to find out if you need to reseal the surface is to take some water and drip it onto your granite countertop. If the water soaks into the stone, it is time to reseal it. If your countertop repels the water droplet, you can wait to reseal the surface.

Quartz: If you have heard that quartz countertops are not real stone, that is only slightly true. Quartz countertops are engineered, but they contain around 93% quartz. The other 7% of the slab is a special resin that holds the ground quartz together and allows engineers to create large slabs of quartz for your countertops. A quartz countertop can be made to look like granite, or even marble.

Another fact about quartz is that it is extremely hard. Geologists created a scale to determine rank the hardness of natural materials. The scale is called the Mohs Hardness Scale. Diamonds are at the top of the list with a 10. Quartz is a 7. Quartz might not be as hard as diamond, but it is still a very hard substance. When you have a quartz countertop, you will notice that it is extremely durable. If you heard that granite is the most durable countertop, well you should know that quartz is giving granite a run for its ranking.

Another amazing fact about a quartz countertop is the number of choices. Since it is engineered, there are hundreds of different colors that you can find. The selection when you go with quartz will be massive.

Arch City Granite gives you the Facts about Stone Countertops

If you are interest in even more facts about stone countertops, why not come in and visit our showroom. You will be able to see all of the different types of countertops we provide. You can even watch our precision machines cut stone slabs and transform them into future countertops. We understand that you want to have the perfect countertop for your home. Our friendly staff is willing to answer all of you questions and give you the facts that will help you make the right choice for your home.

With Arch City Granite, you will be armed with all the answers you need to make an educated assessment of our different stone surfaces. We empower you. When you decide on your countertop we will come out to your home and use our computer aided measuring equipment to make perfect measurements. Arch City Granite can help you transform your home.

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If you are considering new countertops, you have a lot of options and one of them is quartz. These frequently asked questions will give you all the information you need to make a decision about using quartz in your home. For your information, here are FAQ’s about quartz:

What is quartz?

Quartz is a crystalline form of silicone diode and second most common mineral found on this planet. It is found typically in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks, colored by impurities found within it, such as in amethyst, citrine, and cairngorm. Quartz is both plentiful and durable, used in production in diverse ways from electronics to building materials.

Where is quartz found?

Quartz is found all over the world but, Arkansas and Brazil are two places with the largest natural quartz mines. The largest natural quartz crystal was found in Brazil and weighed 44 tons. Mountain tops, beaches, rivers and deserts contain high quantities of quartz on their surfaces. Even though quartz is a widely occurring mineral, pure, high quality quartz crystals are rarely found. The Spruce Pine Gem Mine in North Carolina is one of the few locations where you can find highly pure quartz mined. India also has huge quantities of clear quartz deposits.

What are the uses for quartz?

Quartz is extensively used in glassmaking and also an essential ingredient in fiberglass. Due to its hardness, quartz makes an excellent option as an abrasive and is used in sandblasting and sandpaper production. It is widely used as a filler in paint and rubber substances as well as for traction purposes in the railroad industry. Many electronics such as watches, televisions and cellphones contain quartz. This mineral is the most varied of any other mineral as it comes in a variety of colors and forms, making it one of the most useful natural substances.

Why are quartz countertops so popular?

Quartz, also called “engineered stone,” is one of the hardest minerals on earth, thus when used as a countertop option in homes, it is arguably the most durable choice. Unlike other mined natural stone slabs, quartz is produced in a factory. Here are some other reasons people love quartz countertops:

• They can be made in a variety of colors from bright red to lime green, as well as a popular brown, black and cream neutral colors.
• Quartz is less likely to crack or chip in compared to granite or marble since it is stronger.
• It is a non-porous material so it will not harbor bacteria in tiny cracks like other countertop materials.
• It is resistant to stains so oil, juice, wine, tomato, coffee and more have no effect on the color.

How are quartz countertops produced?

The primary ingredient in this type of countertops 93% ground quartz, which is combined with polyester resins to bind it together. Pigments are added to give it color. Quartz is an attractive look in kitchens and some designs even incorporate small amounts of recycled glass or metallic flecks into it.

Do quartz countertops stain easily?

Due to the durability and special type of resins mixed within the quartz during production, quartz countertops are resistant to stains. They are a nonporous surface, which means staining substances do not settle in small pores, causing discoloration.

Do quartz countertops scratch easily?

Quartz is among the most durable counter surfaces you can purchase, and they are scratch resistant under normal usage. It is not indestructible, as any surface can be damaged with extreme abuse, however quartz is durable and withstands well in normal usage. To keep its shine and luster, a cutting board is recommended when using knives.

Are quartz countertops easy to maintain?

Quartz is a low maintenance countertop, unlike granite which typically requires a new protective top coat at least once a year. These surfaces never need to be sealed, unlike some natural stone options.

Are quartz countertops porous?

No. Quartz countertops are nonporous, thus bacteria and other substances cannot get into the surface.

Is quartz resistant to heat?

Quartz is better at resisting heat in comparison to laminate surfaces like Formica, but when compared to granite or other stone countertops, quartz is not as heat resistant and care should be used. The resin component of the Quartz surfaces makes it vulnerable to direct heat like placing hot pans directly from the oven etc. Trivets and hot pads should be used for hot pans or hot hair tools in the bathroom to keep quartz looking its best.

Is quartz expensive?

In comparison to other high end countertop materials such as granite, slate and marble, quartz is very comparable.

Are there any chemicals or cleaners to avoid on quartz?

We recommend using cleaning products with a pH between 5-8, as products outside this range may damage the surface. Cleaning products such as oven grill cleaners, floor strippers, toilet bowl cleaners, oil soaps, tarnish removers, furniture cleaners, drain products, etc. could be damaging to your countertop. If your surface accidentally is exposed to any of these potentially damaging products, rinse with water immediately.

In what areas of the home should quartz be used?

Quartz is perfect for kitchen counters, bathroom vanity tops, fireplaces, shower edges, window sills and coffee tables. Using quartz in businesses for food service counters, conference tables and reception tops is also a popular choice. It is not recommended to use quartz for exterior purposes as too much exposure to ultraviolet light can discolor it.

Are quartz countertops seamless?

Similar to granite, quartz slabs also come in certain maximum sizes. The jumbo sized slabs are usually 125” x 65”. If countertops are longer than these sizes, they need to be seamed. It is similar to granite in this aspect. We try and make this seam as inconspicuous as possible.

Will any type of sink fit with a quartz countertop?

Yes, all types of sinks fit and will be measured and sized prior. Sink sizes are determined by the size of the sink cabinet. The sink needs to be on-site during installation to ensure proper fitting and sealing.

Call Arch City Granite & Marble if you have further questions about quartz countertops and installation. We look forward to hearing from you!

The post FAQ’s about Quartz Countertops: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

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  High angle view of a man cooking meat on a gas BBQ standing in the sunshine on a paved outdoor patio at the summer kitchen preparing for guests with a table and chairs with a garden umbrella alongside
  Source: istockphoto

  Consider selecting a portable grill that has multiple cooking racks. Grills on wheels are easy to move and when you’re not using it, it’s easy to tuck it out of the way into a corner of your yard. If gas is your preferred fuel for the barbecue and you have an existing natural gas line on your property, consider having a licensed plumber run a gas line to the area where you’ll be grilling.Quick connect flexible gas hoses are available and when you’re finished grilling, you can unhook the gas line safely. Natural gas costs less than propane and you won’t need to store a propane tank. You’ll also have the convenience of gas whenever you want it. You can also add a portable fire pit to use when evenings are chilly.

• Add water. Working in an outdoor kitchen without ready access to water complicates the cooking and cleanup process, but it may be possible for you to run a water line, a standpipe and a spigot to the area where you’ll be cooking. Adding a short hose with a nozzle with automatic shut-off will give you water at your fingertips when you need it.
• Use a portable island. It’s possible to use kitchen islands in an outdoor kitchen for smaller spaces, and it will provide the storage and work space you need for cooking the meal and serving it. When selecting it, opt for one that’s made for use outdoors, fabricated from stainless steel or weather-tight masonry products. Choose one that will withstand the moisture and inevitable freeze and thaw cycles much better than one built for indoor use.Putting a granite countertop on it will increase its durability and enhance its appearance. The colors and patterns of this natural stone will bring beauty to the yard, and could even serve as a focal point for outdoor entertaining.

If you’d like to learn more about incorporating granite into an outdoor kitchen for smaller spaces, contact Arch City Granite & Marble today.

The post How to Fit an Outdoor Kitchen into a Small Backyard appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

A granite kitchen counter bar set for food
Source: istockphoto

Here are a few guidelines for selecting granite countertops for outdoor applications like a kitchen or bar:

• Consider the color of the kitchen cabinets or bar structure. Granite is available in over 20 color shades. To avoid color monotony, refrain from a strictly uniform color match between the granite countertop and the cabinets or bar. Allow some aspect of the shade of granite to add contrast. For example, choosing granite with a similar background hue to the cabinets, but also incorporating darker mottling and/or veins, sets off the countertop more vividly than a uniform match among bar, cabinets and countertop. Alternatively, the overall granite shade may contrast vividly with colors of the cabinet or bar structure, while the veining and speckles of the stone provide some color match.
• Granite colors most appropriate for white or light-colored kitchen/bar cabinetry include Black, Silver and Blue Pearl varieties, as well as Sapphire Blue, Labrador Green and New Azul Arron. For a dark-colored or black bar, Golden Crystal, Delicatus and Giallo Ornamental are popular granite hues. Other options include Bianco Antico, Venetian Pearl, Super White and green, white-veined Costa Esmeralda.
• Also note that the weight of granite varies with density and may average around 18 to 20 pounds per square foot. While most solidly-built bar and kitchen cabinet structure supports granite without alteration, some reinforcement may be necessary to an existing structure that does not meet those specifications for supporting weight.

For professional guidance about selecting and installing granite countertops on an outdoor kitchen or bar, in the St. Louis metropolitan area contact Arch City Granite & Marble.

The post Incorporate Granite into Your Outdoor Kitchen Bar appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

Bananas on black granite countertops
Source: istockphoto

You can add warmth or cool the room down with just a few decor changes. For all who enjoy matching decor to the seasons, you will love how striking an autumnal palette looks against this granite. Here are tips for fall decorating around black granite.

Using Fall Colors

Bright colors stand out vividly against a black backdrop, which makes decorating around black granite exceptionally enjoyable in the fall. Use shades of orange, gold, red and light brown to bring the beauty of autumn into your home.

Consider decorating with placemats, candleholders or similar objects in these colors to create bold accents that contrast with the black.

Attending to Visual Texture

Visual texture influences the ambience of a room to a similar degree as color does. Sealed black granite has a smooth, glossy visual texture that harmonizes well with sleek modern decorating styles. If you wish to emphasize this, your accompanying decorative items should have a similar glossy texture. Think colored glass or glossy enameled ceramics in fall themes, such as pumpkins or ceramic gourds.

If your decorating style is classical, rather than modern, use matte or textured finishes and natural materials as accents for your granite countertops. Woven placemats or wood candlesticks can balance the glossy granite and lend coziness to the room. Also consider natural items that are evocative of autumn, such as gourds, pumpkins, or autumn leaves displayed in a woven basket, or a bouquet of fall flowers.

Decorating for Autumn Holidays

Halloween has met its perfect match when it comes to black granite. You can keep it simple and subtle by just adding a few Halloween themed features, such as pumpkins, white ghost figurines or pale skulls. Alternatively, go all out for a party or for your children by setting Jack-O-Lanterns and spooky graveyard displays on the countertop.

Thanksgiving displays show equally well against black granite. Consider cornucopias in bright colors, Thanksgiving turkey figurines, and baskets of colorful maize. Set them on an orange or white placemat or doily to draw the eye even more, making the display a design focal point.

When you are looking for the finest black granite in St. Louis, make sure you visit Arch City Granite & Marble, Inc.

The post How to Decorate Around Black Granite this Fall appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

A clean bathroom countertop
Source: istockphoto

Marble

If you want to create a luxurious spa experience in the master bath, marble makes an elegant choice. This natural stone’s hard crystalline structure allows it to be highly-polished, and every slab of marble offers a unique appearance with distinctive veining.

The plethora of color options include pale white, blue, pink, yellow, green, brown, gray and black, which makes it easy to match your chosen color palette. Since marble is susceptible to staining, it should be treated with a silicone sealant before installation.

Granite

Rich, dramatic granite is available in both bold and subtle patterns to mesh with almost any decor and style. You’ll also have an amazing array of color choices including beige, black and gray hues, earthy browns, vibrant reds and lush greens. The dazzling flecks and patterns seen in different slabs of granite are caused by mica, quartz and feldspar crystals trapped when the stone formed.

Because granite is extremely durable as well as scratch and bacteria resistant, it’s ideally suited for a family bathroom. Once it’s properly sealed, a granite countertop is also virtually impervious to stains and heat.

Soapstone

Low-maintenance soapstone is a time-tested favorite choice for bathroom countertops. Since it’s non-porous and heat resistant, you won’t have to worry about staining or burns from a hot curling iron. Soapstone color choices are quite limited though — it’s typically a bluish or greenish gray with lighter veins of quartz running through. The only care it requires is a periodic application of mineral oil, which darkens the natural stone to a deeper charcoal color over time.

Quartz

Man-made quartz countertops are created using a precise combination of natural granite power, crushed crystal quartz and other materials like coloring agents or colored glass bonded together with polyester resins. The result is a hard, durable surface that’s stain, chip and scratch resistant without any need for sealants.

If you’re looking for a sumptuous-looking countertop with a uniform color, pattern and texture, quartz is the ideal choice.

For advice about your choices for getting stone countertops in St. Louis, stop by our showroom and talk with one of our expert fabricators at Arch City Granite & Marble.

The post What Type of Stone Countertop is Best for Your St. Louis Bathroom? appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

A clean fresh modern kitchen with granite worktops and sink and glass hob
Source: istockphoto

Installation Type

When laminate countertops were the norm, self-rimming drop-in or “top mount” sinks were a necessity to protect the countertop from water damage around the sink cut out. Today, undermount sinks are the most popular style choice and they pair beautifully with stone countertops like granite, marble and quartz. An undermount sink is seamlessly integrated into the countertop, providing ease of cleaning and an attractive, streamlined appearance.

Sink Material

There are number of different sink materials available today:

• Stainless steel – This neutral, clean-looking material is today’s top choice with new granite and quartz countertop installations. Stainless steel sinks are easy to maintain and they won’t chip, stain or rust. Look for a sink that’s 16-gauge, which is thicker and more durable than 18-gauge steel.
• Composite granite – Formed from 80 percent crushed granite and 20 percent resins, durable composite granite sinks are gaining in popularity. The material is easy to clean, and resistant to heat, acids, stains, chips and fading. Composite granite sinks offer a beautiful natural matte appearance in a number of colors, making it easy to complement new stone countertops and any style of kitchen decor.
• Enameled cast iron – The availability of glossy white and other colors made durable enameled iron sinks a popular luxury option before the introduction of lighter-weight materials. This type of sink is extremely heavy, so it typically requires extra structural reinforcement of the cabinet. With use and time, the enamel finish can also chip and peel off.
• Copper or bronze – The distinctive look of a copper or bronze sink provides a undeniable aesthetic appeal, and there are numerous beautiful designs available. If you choose this type of material, make certain there’s no mercury or lead mixed with the copper.

Proper Sizing

You can base your choice of sink width and bowl configuration on personal preference and kitchen size, but don’t overlook matching the sink size to the depth of the countertop so there’s enough room behind the sink to install the faucet.

For expert help choosing a sink that perfectly matches your kitchen countertop materials and other design elements, stop by our showroom or contact us at Arch City Granite & Marble.

The post Make Sure Your Kitchen Sink Matches Up with Your Countertops appeared first on Arch City Granite & Marble.

White kitchen with retro vintage burgundy oven cooktop
Source: istockphotos

Maybe it’s the natural beauty. Maybe it’s the aesthetic splendor and elegance it immediately lends to kitchens and bathrooms. Or maybe it’s the challenge of finding the perfect paint color to complement your marble countertops.

Yes, sometimes determining which wall color works best with your marble can be difficult. But that’s why you turn to the marble fabrication experts at Arch City Granite & Marble! They’ve helped countless homeowners just like you find paint colors to complement marble.

Here’s a look at five of the favorites:

Wintery White

If you want your marble countertops to be a room’s centerpiece, paint the walls white. This is especially effective when you choose marble slabs that have blue and brown casts in the stone. Great options include marshmallow white and white lagoon.

Scenes of the Sea

If you have marble in your bathroom, consider choosing a paint color that is reminiscent of the sea. Pale shades that are between blue and green create a calm, relaxing environment when matched with marble. Consider a blue sky or a misty aqua to create a sea-like scene.

Big and Bold

Simply put, when you combine dark walls with light marble countertops you can create a room that has a big, bold personality. If you don’t want to commit an entire room to something so daring, try painting just one of your kitchen walls a warm gray–making it an accent wall–and combining it with softer shade of gray on the other walls.

A Splash of Red

Red is an exciting and aggressive color that can quickly overpower a room. But when it’s used sparingly as an accent, it allows your polished white marble countertops to shine. It also works well to complement the red-orange hues that are often found in hardwood floors.

Beautiful Black

It’s dark. It’s mysterious. And when it’s done properly, beautiful ebony black walls work extremely well with stunning white marble. The key is to ensure that your room gets plenty of natural light and has plenty of strategically placed artificial lighting. Try black tulip or peacock blue if you are going to go the beautiful black route.

These are just five paint colors that lend well to marble. There are others, and your space, design tastes and goals might call for a different color. Contact Arch City Granite & Marble to discuss your specific needs.

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A man measuring his kitchen
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All great kitchen designs and remodels begin with precise measurements. You need to know exactly what you’re dealing with–how much space you have, what obstructions your need to consider, and which windows and doors will affect your plans.

Yes, measuring a kitchen is the first step towards making your kitchen dreams come true. So without further ado, here is a step-by-step guide to measuring a kitchen:

Get your gear — You’re going to need a tape measure, straight edge and some graph paper.

Draw an outline — It doesn’t have to be to exact scale, but you will need a rough outline of your kitchen, including where the doors and windows are located (and which way they open). Make sure to include obstructions–radiators, pipes, etc.–on your outline.

Measure clockwise around the room — Begin measuring at the top left corner of your outline and make your way around the room in a clockwise manner. Mark the distance between each corner to each window or door. Windows and doors should be measured from the outside trim on one side to the outside trim on the other side.

Measure top to bottom — Once you’ve measured your way around the room, measure the ceiling height at various spots in your kitchen (ceiling heights can actually deviate by an inch or two in the same room). After you’ve measured the ceiling height, measure from the floor to the bottom of each window. Then measure each window’s height.

Measure obstructions — Obstructions can either be eyesores or an assets. They are more likely to be assets if you have accurately measured them. Measure them, mark them down and let your building partners help you figure out how to incorporate them into the kitchen’s overall design.

Check your math — The final step in measuring a kitchen is to check your math. Add your top wall measurements. Add your bottom wall measurements. Compare the two and make sure their totals are equal to one another. If they are not, you need to check your measurements.

Consider the countertops — Once you know how much space you have, it’s time to consider the countertops. For assistance measuring your countertops, and figuring out how to create more countertops space, contact the experts at Arch City Granite & Marble.

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