Jami Heward, Author at Arch City Granite & Marble https://www.archcitygranite.com/author/jamiheward/ St. Louis Granite Countertop Specialist Thu, 17 Feb 2022 16:42:12 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 Do Quartz Countertops Scratch Easily? https://www.archcitygranite.com/do-quartz-countertops-scratch-easily/ Wed, 27 Jun 2018 16:33:56 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5144 Quartz countertops in recent years have pushed past granite in the popularity contest. Granite was king for nearly 4 decades as the most desired countertop choice. A home for sale simply boasting granite countertops throughout the home suddenly made it irresistible to buyers. However, quartz countertops have gained tremendous appeal among designers, builders and homeowners […]

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Quartz countertop Webster Groves MO

Quartz countertops in recent years have pushed past granite in the popularity contest. Granite was king for nearly 4 decades as the most desired countertop choice. A home for sale simply boasting granite countertops throughout the home suddenly made it irresistible to buyers.

However, quartz countertops have gained tremendous appeal among designers, builders and homeowners as more options and colors have become available. They can be made in many more colors than granite and being a manufactured natural stone, the variety of style, grain and look is unlimited.

The list of quartz countertops glowing virtues is long and impressive. This low maintenance option is nonporous and because of that, it is antimicrobial. The fact that bacteria can’t nestle in the miniscule holes like other porous stones is a huge bonus.

It is fairly heat resistant as well though trivets are recommended. Quartz is also heat resistant (though not heat proof like other stones so trivets should still be used), environmentally friendly, easy to clean, durable and above all, scratch resistant. The biggest question asked by those interested in quartz countertops is, “Do quartz countertops scratch easily?” Let’s first examine this countertop a little closer to better answer this question.

How quartz countertops are made

Quartz countertops are man made and also known as “engineered stone.” They are made of 96% natural quartz material that is ground very fine and then mixed together with 6-7% polyresin binding materials and pigments. The combination together creates a stone that incredibly strong and can withstand years of wear and tear on the kitchen.

Quartz stone is the 2nd most common substance on earth and due to its natural molecular structure, it is one of the hardest substances on earth. Once the crushed quartz and resin material are mixed together, it is poured into a slab, often with flecked quartz pieces added for beauty and character. Once finished, a glossy, smooth slab emerges and it can be cut to fit your kitchen and bathroom exactly.

Quartz countertops and scratches

Though quartz is not completely indestructible, this type of countertop is highly resistant to scratches. That does not mean they cannot happen because with a enough force, a scratch can appear but with normal, everyday use in the kitchen, scratching is unlikely due to the hardness and durability of this incredible stone. Just like other natural stone countertops, quartz can chip or scratch if it encounters extreme use and pressure. However, if scratches or chips appear, you can have them professionally filled in and repaired.

Overall, quartz countertops stand up to much wear and tear in the kitchen with little evidence. If you select quartz, you will not be disappointed as this sturdy stone looks fabulous for years and years with appropriate care. All these characteristics are big reasons why homeowners are consistently picking quartz countertops in recent years. They are a beautiful choice in your kitchen or bathroom.

So many colors to pick from in our showroom

Arch City Granite is pleased to offer the best selection in quartz countertops around. With so many colors and styles in quartz to pick from, it is uniquely a stone that can fit any kitchen style. Our staff at our St. Louis showroom is excited to help you choose the best stone, color and look to fit your kitchen and bathroom. There are so many options and with the ability to see and feel all the stone slabs we offer, you be able to envision them in your home easier. There is nothing more exciting than kitchen and bathroom counter upgrades, they provide an instant attraction and beauty unlike any other addition. Stop by Arch City Granite today to explore our selection, prices and brands.

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Arch City Scholarship Recipient https://www.archcitygranite.com/arch-city-scholarship-recipient/ Tue, 26 Jun 2018 16:45:45 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5142 After receiving over 1,000 entries, we sat down to pick a scholarship winner. After numerous hours looking through hundreds of impressive applications, the team was able to choose a winner. Khiara Fowler was chosen to receive the $1,000 scholarship.  As a student from Cardinal Ritter, Khiara was awarded an ‘Incredible Work Ethic’ award from her […]

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After receiving over 1,000 entries, we sat down to pick a scholarship winner. After numerous hours looking through hundreds of impressive applications, the team was able to choose a winner. Khiara Fowler was chosen to receive the $1,000 scholarship. 

As a student from Cardinal Ritter, Khiara was awarded an ‘Incredible Work Ethic’ award from her school. Her impressive grades, work ethic, and desire to become an Aerospace Engineer and Physicist for the Boeing Company were just a few reasons that we felt proud to help her accomplish her dreams. Khiara shared with us that one of her biggest dreams is to open a non-profit outreach program for students focusing on the ‘STEM’ organization/group. 

Khiara Fowler

Khiara Fowler

Khiara plans to use the scholarship to help pay for her enrollment fee at Mizzou and her travel costs to move to the new city. We are excited for Khiara and happy to help her along the way! 

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How Much Maintenance Does Granite Require? https://www.archcitygranite.com/how-much-maintenance-does-granite-require/ Wed, 20 Jun 2018 16:13:02 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5141 When selecting countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, there are a lot of factors that go into that choice. One of the biggest is durability, cost and maintenance. Homeowners want their countertops to be durable so they will last and look beautiful for many years to come. They also don’t want to spend a lot […]

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When selecting countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, there are a lot of factors that go into that choice. One of the biggest is durability, cost and maintenance. Homeowners want their countertops to be durable so they will last and look beautiful for many years to come. They also don’t want to spend a lot of money but when it comes to natural stone countertops vs. synthetic laminate, the extra money is well worth the price.

Natural stone countertops, especially granite, give a rich, sophisticated look to any kitchen or bathroom and hold up much better over the years compared to cheaper countertop options. However, for as wonderful and gorgeous as granite countertops are, some people worry they might be too much work and the upkeep on them too much of a hassell.

Arch City Granite will show you how much maintenance granite countertops require and how easy it is to maintain their original brilliance.

All countertop types have “rules”

There are a few rules with granite countertops but do not let that intimidate you. All types of countertops have a few rules because no countertop type is impervious to damage. For instance, laminate countertops scratch very easily and can discolor or burn if hot pots come in direct contact with them. Quartz countertops are non-porous and stain proof, however they also cannot handle direct heat from pans either. Marble countertops can take the heat, but as one of the softer stones, can etch or scratch without careful attention. You need to know the rules of your countertop before you have them installed and this is the same for granite. The do’s and don’ts are simple, but necessary to know.

The do’s and don’ts for granite countertops

You decided you love the look of granite, the price tag fits and now you are wondering how much maintenance does granite require. They require very little effort but it is important to know how to care for them so you do not accidentally damage them.

  • DO wash them with warm water and soap.
  • DO use a soft rag on your granite countertops.
  • DO occasionally clean them down with stone cleaners such as Rejuvenata spray from Dry-Treat. Your countertops were sealed when they were installed, but this cleaner has a small amount of stone sealer to keep your countertops from becoming porous.
  • DO wipe up liquid spills immediately, especially acidic juices such as lemon juice, vinegar, soda pop and wine. Dark colored or acidic juices can stain or etch your granite.
  • DON’T use harsh, abrasive cleaners or rough and scratch sponges as this can cause deterioration in your stone as well as micro scratching and wear down the protective sealer. Steer away from ammonia and bleach specifically.
  • DON’T use powdered or cream cleansers on your marble as it is highly abrasive.
  • DON’T sit or stand on your granite countertops. While they are sturdy, very durable and heavy duty, they can crack under enough weight.

These do’s and don’ts are pretty simple and if you follow them, your granite will continue to shine throughout the years. There is no need to worry about the maintenance required as it is just as easy if not easier than most other countertops.

The many advantages of granite

Stones in nature go through many extreme weathering and pressures, which is what makes them so durable. Granite countertops can withstand basic, everyday use in your kitchens and bathrooms beautifully. There are a few small rules, but overall, these countertops are among the most durable you can install. Arch City Granite has a stunning selection of granite countertops, among many other types of natural stone. Our helpful staff can help you make the best decision for your lifestyle and tastes. We love making our customers happy and can’t wait to help you.

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Can Water Ruin Granite? https://www.archcitygranite.com/can-water-ruin-granite/ Thu, 14 Jun 2018 16:45:26 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5136 Granite countertops are among the most durable choice when considering options for new countertops in your kitchen or bathroom. In popularity, granite has reigned supreme among the top choices for countertops for almost 40 years now. It has been seen as a statement piece in the kitchen and bathroom with its artistic veining and variety […]

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Granite countertops are among the most durable choice when considering options for new countertops in your kitchen or bathroom. In popularity, granite has reigned supreme among the top choices for countertops for almost 40 years now.

It has been seen as a statement piece in the kitchen and bathroom with its artistic veining and variety of colors. No two slabs are the same so adding that touch of brilliance and luxury to your kitchen or bathroom is a big thing. Elbowing passed formica and marble countertops, granite was hailed as the most beautiful and desired countertop option after the 1970’s and 80’s. Even today, it is still held its place among the top 3 most popular countertop choices in new homes.

One reason homeowners love granite is for its heat and scratch resistant durability. Graduating from laminate countertops to granite, you especially love the fact that this stone can easily have hot pots placed on top or that it can withstand small surface scratching from regular use. While granite countertops are a brilliant choice in the kitchen, they are not indestructible and you need to take care when it comes to granite and specific liquids, even water.

The porosity of granite

Due to the nature of granite, that it is a natural stone, it can be somewhat porous. Before it is installed as a countertop in your kitchen however, it is treated with special sealers to make it less likely to absorb stains and liquids. Without this sealant, if dark colored liquids are allowed to sit on the countertop for a long period of time, they can discolor light colored granite.

Sealing your granite countertops professionally before they are installed is a must. After that, you can self seal your granite countertops with store bought granite sealer. We recommend Stain-Proof Original from Dry-Treat products as it is manufactured with nano technology and has high amounts of stone sealer in it and will keep your countertops from soaking up liquids.

Water on your granite countertops

In nature, rain water drenches marble and granite but it may be surprising that rocks such as these can soak up water. It’s not much but because of the porosity, the tiny holes that are not visible to the naked eye can absorb water. Sealed granite countertops are much less likely to absorb water, however if water is left on your countertop for long periods of time, it can cause a darker spot. Oftentimes, water will just dry and evaporate but if it’s been left to sit for a long time, it might needs a bit more help.

Mild detergent, water and a soft bristled brush is usually enough to remove the spot. Hard water stains are another story. If your water has a high mineral content, it can leave a hard water stain on your granite, especially around a leaky faucet. This creates a white, filmy residue on your countertop that can seem impossible to remove but there is a way to do it. Using baking soda or a granite cleaner poultice, spread a thick layer around the hard water stain. Cover it with plastic wrap and tape down. Allow it to dry for 24 hours and once dry, gently use your hands to rub off the dry poultice. Use a soft cloth with warm water and soap to remove the rest. If there is still a little bit of the hard water stain left, try this process again. So can water ruin granite? No, but it can discolor it so you want to be cautious with especially hard water on your granite countertops.

Arch City Granite for the best selection in granite countertops

Arch City Granite prides itself in providing the best selection of granite slabs around. When selecting granite for your new countertops, you don’t want to see a picture in a book, you want to touch, see and feel it. Our friendly staff is happy to answer your questions and help you choose the best look for your kitchen or bathroom update. Come in and see us today!

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Why Do People Like Granite In Kitchens And Bathrooms https://www.archcitygranite.com/why-do-people-like-granite-in-kitchens-and-bathrooms/ Wed, 30 May 2018 15:39:31 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5131 Have you ever wondered why so many homeowners decide to go with granite in their kitchens or bathrooms? With so many different varieties of countertop on the market, you might wonder why granite is such a popular choice. Here at Arch City Granite, we want you to have the information you need to make informed […]

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Blue granite countertop in a white kitchen

Have you ever wondered why so many homeowners decide to go with granite in their kitchens or bathrooms? With so many different varieties of countertop on the market, you might wonder why granite is such a popular choice. Here at Arch City Granite, we want you to have the information you need to make informed decisions. If you have questions about granite in bathrooms and granite in kitchens, then we have the answers you need.

The Origin Story

Granite is an extremely hard material and is formed from quartz and feldspar and a few other trace minerals. The other trace minerals are what alter the coloring. Granite is formed from magma deep under the earth. As the magma begins to cool, the pressure of the earth compresses the crystallizing magma and granite is formed. The formation of granite is a combination of the right materials, added to the right amounts of heat, pressure, and time. When granite is created correctly, you get a kitchen or bathroom countertop that can withstand an army of angry toddlers, and even forgetful teenagers.

So, Why Go With Granite?

Durability

 If you are wondering where granite falls on durability, we will need to look at the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. In the early 1800’s a mineralogist named Fredrick Mohs wanted to know the toughness of natural materials. He created a simple method of taking one material to scratch another. Using this revolutionary technique, Mohs was able to understand hardness as it related to Geology. Ranked at a number one, the softest material on the scale is talc, while the hardest is diamond with a rank of 10. Granite falls in at a rank of seven. This means that the granite in kitchens is resistant to scratching. Granite can also withstand the heat. If you have granite in a bathroom, you won’t have to worry about a curling iron burning the surface. Granite can take the heat. You can take a hot pan out of the oven and set it directly on the surface. If you love baking and cooking, granite will be your new best friend.

Selection

If you are worried about finding the right color for you kitchen or bathroom countertop, granite has you covered. You will be able to find slabs of granite that come in a variety of coloring schemes and patterns. Some of the colors include: browns, beiges, earth tones, reds, whites, blacks, neutrals, and greys. You can even find a few granite slabs that have a blueish coloring. Pretty much, if you have a color scheme in mind for you kitchen or bathroom, granite has the wide selection you need.

Resistant to Staining

When countertops are fabricated at Arch City Granite, we add a protective sealant. The sealant goes a long way to protecting the granite from stains, but the granite itself helps too. Granite is a pretty dense material.

Low Maintenance

There are some countertops out there that require a lot of maintenance. Granite definitely is not included in that group. Granite is one of the lowest maintenance countertops you can find. Depending on the level of use, you might need to reseal your granite countertops once a year to once every few years. Applying the sealant is easy, all you need to do is follow the directions on the package and you will be good to go.

Arch City Granite

If you have questions about installing granite in kitchens or bathrooms, feel free to come down to one of our stores. We will answer your questions in a pressure free environment. We want to help you make the right decision for you home. At our St. Louis location, you can even watch the fabrication process. You will be amazed as large slabs of granite are transformed into stunning countertops. We have the selection you need for your kitchen and bathroom and we have install you countertops the right way the first time. When you think about installing granite countertops, think Arch City Granite. With Arch City Granite, you will understand why so many people love their granite countertops.

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Are Granite Countertops Really Cut From A Single Piece Of Stone? https://www.archcitygranite.com/are-granite-countertops-really-cut-from-a-single-piece-of-stone/ Wed, 23 May 2018 13:42:25 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5130 When you are looking through our numerous granite countertop slabs for the perfect fit in your kitchen, you might begin to wonder about their origin story. Our sales team encounters a lot of different questions about our amazing natural stone countertops, but the question about are they really cut from a single piece of stone […]

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When you are looking through our numerous granite countertop slabs for the perfect fit in your kitchen, you might begin to wonder about their origin story. Our sales team encounters a lot of different questions about our amazing natural stone countertops, but the question about are they really cut from a single piece of stone is definitely common. Here at Arch City Granite, we want you to have the answers to your questions. Since we deal with natural stone on a daily basis, we know a thing or two about granite. The answer to question is a definitive yes. Our granite slabs do indeed originate from a single piece of stone.

Blocks to Slabs

All natural stone starts in the earth. Massive blocks of stone are quarried from the earth. These large stone blocks are then cut into slabs. The slabs are shaped and then packaged. Special carte is used during the packaging process to avoid the domino effect. The domino effect is when stacked slabs fall like dominos. Natural stone and even granite can shatter if it falls like dominos. The large slabs are packaged and then shipped to our fabrication center right here in St. Louis.

Slabs to Countertops

When the slabs arrive to our fabrication center, they are stored and set out so you can walk through and chose the right color for your kitchen, bathroom, or fireplace surround. With over 100 different types of natural stone, you will be able to find the perfect fit for you home. Once you know the right countertop for your home, we come in and do the measuring. We use our Proliner or Faro Arm Digital Templating machine to measure your countertops to produce a computer file. The nice thing about our computer aided measuring device is that it takes out human error. We get precision measurements in a matter of moments. Once the measurements have been made, we take the computer file back to our workshop and then download it into our CNC cutting equipment. CNC stands for Computer numerical control. The man-made diamond tipped saw saws are operated by a computer and are able to make precision cuts. The CNC equipment allows countertops to be fabricated in the matter of an afternoon. Even the most complex cuts can easily be performed. What once took days with hand tools can now be done in no time at all. For you, that means granite countertops are more affordable than ever. If you want to see the fabrication process in action, feel free to visit one of our showrooms. You will be able to watch slabs of stone be transformed into amazing countertops. For large kitchens, that have a lot of countertop space, we might need to use several slabs of stone. Even if we have to use several slabs, they ultimately came from the same large block of stone. In order to create the perfect countertop, we glue the different slabs together. The seams are so fine that you will have to study your countertop in order to find them.

Arch City Granite

When you are looking for granite countertops, you can find what you are looking for at Arch City Granite. Our selection and professional skill will give you the countertops of your dreams. When you want to beautify your kitchen or bathroom, you need Arch City Granite. We know granite. If you have any questions about natural stone countertops, including granite, you have the answers you need. For a pressure free buying experience, you can count on Arch City Granite to deliver.

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Why You Need to Hire A Professional To Install Countertops https://www.archcitygranite.com/why-you-need-to-hire-a-professional-to-install-countertops/ Wed, 16 May 2018 16:28:19 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5125 If you are looking at your countertops and you decide it is time for an upgrade, you might begin to wonder if you have what it takes to personally install your new kitchen countertops. Hiring a professional for the installation will cost money for labor, but doing it yourself is not in the question. Here […]

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If you are looking at your countertops and you decide it is time for an upgrade, you might begin to wonder if you have what it takes to personally install your new kitchen countertops. Hiring a professional for the installation will cost money for labor, but doing it yourself is not in the question. Here at Arch City Granite, when it comes to granite countertops, we want you to have beautiful countertops and that requires you to hire a professional stone manufacturer to install the countertops.

DIY Can Be Done, Sometimes

First off, the only time you can install your own countertops is if it is a small job that does not have any seams and is a very small piece of stone. This is usually only for countertops on small bar tops or coffee tables. You can not cut the stone yourself, but you may be able to install the small piece of stone on your own with the help of a couple of friends. You will need to ask a few friends or family members for help. Remember that a slab of granite can easily weigh more than 200 pounds. Since granite slabs can be brittle, you want enough people to pick it up and place it gently into place.

Step 1 Choose you Granite

The very first thing to consider is the color. There are a lot of different types of granite. For more information on selecting your granite countertop, you can click here.

Step 2 Measuring

The old adage to measure twice and cut once is extremely important when working with granite. You will need to take a lot of measurements. The last thing you want is to get your slab and have it be the wrong size. Your walls are not level. There will be a lot of variation in lengths. You might want to consider creating a template out of cardboard. Here at Arch City Granite, we use computer aided measuring, we get the right fit the first time. DIY can be fun, but you might want to consider having us do the measuring .

Step 3 Preparation

You need to insure that your cabinets are strong enough to hold the weight of your stone countertops. Visiting with the stone specialists at Arch City Granite is a great way to determine if yours will be adequate. You will also need to be sure that your cabinets are level across the entire surface. Unlevel countertops could cause your stone to crack and things to roll off the surface.

Step 4 Installation

If you are installing your own small piece of stone you will need to follow these suggestions. First off, you will want to set the countertop into place. Make certain everything fits. If the stone does not fit perfectly, you will need to bring it back so we can make the necessary cutting adjustments for you. You want the stone to fit nice and snug, but it should not overhang more than you had planned on it. Finally, you will need to glue your countertops down, install your sink and add a bead of silicone caulk. For more complex jobs, you will need to hire Arch City to come and install the countertops so they look correct and can withstand the wear that a normal countertop does.

Arch City Granite

When you think granite countertop professionals, think of Arch City Granite. If you do not have the tools or the expertise, then you can count on us to install your granite countertops. We have all the tools and the techniques necessary to get your granite countertops installed perfectly. Since our measurements and cutting equipment are all computer aided, your granite countertops will be a perfect fit. One of the best benefits of using our professional installation team is the quality assurance. If we make a mistake, we fix it.

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What is the Main and Most Important Difference Between Travertine and Marble? https://www.archcitygranite.com/what-is-the-main-and-most-important-difference-between-travertine-and-marble/ Thu, 10 May 2018 14:33:34 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5122   Travertine is often thought of as a type marble and people frequently confuse the two. In fact, many people think travertine is just a fancier word for marble but this is not the case, the two are very different stones created in a unique environments giving them their own specific look and feel. One […]

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Travertine is often thought of as a type marble and people frequently confuse the two. In fact, many people think travertine is just a fancier word for marble but this is not the case, the two are very different stones created in a unique environments giving them their own specific look and feel.

One reason these two stones might be lumped together is because they are in the limestone family and both created from sedimentary material, but these two stones are very different in appearance and formation.

The key difference between the two stones is how they are formed. Marble is formed when limestone comes under high pressures and temperatures. Travertine, on the other hand, is formed under additional high pressures and temperatures too, however travertine is formed in hot springs and limestone caves. Travertine has many distinctive, tiny holes and channels, giving it its telltale characteristics. These are created by the expulsion of hot water and gases during formation.

Both travertine and marble are beautiful choices for countertops in your kitchen and bathroom and we will help you understand these two stones better so you can make a choice you will be happy with.

Durability of travertine and marble

Travertine and marble are very hard stones and can withstand normal, everyday use. Being two of the softer natural stones, especially in comparison to granite and quartz, these two types can be cut in a variety of styles and shapes. Travertine and marble can be honed and polished into a beautiful shine. When homeowners hear the word “soft stone,” some are scared off from these two choices but keep in mind, travertine and marble countertops still incredibly durable and harder than most non-stone countertop surfaces.

They were created with heat and pressure during formation, so they are easily able to withstand heat and everyday wear and tear in your kitchen and bathroom. Travertine countertops are slightly harder than marble countertops as travertine is between a 4 and 5 on the mohs scale while marble is between a 3 and 4.

Appearance of the two stones

Marble come in a variety of colors from grey to beige, golden or dark brown or even black. The veining in marble is a unique characteristic but some types of marble can come out one single color with minimal veining.

Travertine is typically in the warm, Mediterranean earth tones. Once the two stones are sealed, they are more resistant to stains, though care should be taken as these porous stones are susceptible to discoloration if dark liquids are not wiped up quickly. Marble and travertine develop a patina over time that connoisseurs of these two stones appreciate.

Cost between travertine countertops and marble countertops

Costs between the two stones can vary greatly depending on the quality of the stone as well as the rarity. Some rare and beautiful marble slabs like Calacatta Gold from Italy may cost more than $150 dollars per sq. ft.  Natural travertine can sometimes cost less than marble because it is easier to cut, reducing costs on this end. In other instances, a natural slab of travertine can cost more than cultured marble, however you can find similar costs in both depending on the quality.

The complexity of the installation can be a factor in the cost. Considering all aspects as well thickness of the slab and quality of the stone, we can help you find a choice that fits your taste and budget. Once you narrow your choice down to the type of countertop you prefer, weighing the options becomes much simpler.

Both stones are a beautiful choice for your countertop upgrades

Whether travertine countertops with its warm, artistic appearance or the natural elegance of marble countertops have caught your eye, Arch City Granite can help you pick the best choice for your kitchen or bathroom.

Granite countertops are wildly popular but if you are looking for something unique and different, steering away from the typical trends and opting for the luxurious travertine and marble choices is an excellent choice.

Our knowledgeable staff can answer all your questions concerning the many different types of travertine countertops and marble countertops we have in stock. Come visit us today for the best selection in natural stone countertops in the St. Louis area.

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What Products Should I Use on my Granite? https://www.archcitygranite.com/what-products-should-i-use-on-my-granite/ Mon, 07 May 2018 16:50:24 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=5120 If you ask anyone to list their “must haves” for their dream house, granite countertops are likely to make most every list. In fact, a survey in 2012 done by MSN concluded that 75% of new kitchens used granite as a countertop choice. Granite is a timeless, elegant and durable option that lasts a lifetime. […]

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If you ask anyone to list their “must haves” for their dream house, granite countertops are likely to make most every list. In fact, a survey in 2012 done by MSN concluded that 75% of new kitchens used granite as a countertop choice. Granite is a timeless, elegant and durable option that lasts a lifetime.

It comes in a variety of colors with unique veining that gives it character as no two pieces of granite are alike. Upgrading to this beautiful, natural stone adds to the resale value of your home and gives your home an instant facelift. The comfort of your home as well as the beauty of kitchen and bathrooms is immediately increased.

Once you take the leap and upgrade to granite countertops, you will want to know how to take care of them to keep them pristine and perfect. While granite countertops are very durable, certain liquids can cause them to deteriorate or damage. With such an expensive investment, let Arch City Granite help you with the best products to clean your gorgeous, new countertops.

Cleaning granite countertops safely

When it comes to granite countertops, there are a few liquids that should never be used on them. Any cleaning product containing bleach or ammonia should be avoided. Acidic liquids can cause granite to deteriorate or damage as well as break down the sealer that was applied when your granite countertops were installed. As a porous stone, granite is sealed to keep liquids from seeping into the tiny holes and staining or discoloring the stone. Other acidic liquids such as vinegar or lemon juice should also be avoided.

There are many granite safe cleaning products on the market that are safe for your countertops. Here are a few of our suggestions:

  • Rejuvenata liquid from Dry-Treat: This is our favorite and most recommended cleaner for granite. Not only is it gentle on your countertops, but it has a small amount of sealer in the solution so it protects as it cleans. Using it on a regular basis keeps your granite countertops shiny and clean along with replacing trace amounts of granite sealer that wears away over time. Regular use of this product prevents the need to reseal your countertop. There are other equally good products like Revitalizer spray from Stone Tech Products.
  • Bleach free disinfecting wipes: As said before, never use bleach on your countertops, but there are some brands, such as Clorox, that make a bleach free wipe that removes bacteria and disinfects your counters nicely.
  • Homemade solution: Another great alternative is to make your own homemade solution using easy to find household products. In a spray bottle, combine a small amount of dish soap, ¼ cup of rubbing alcohol, water and a few drops of your favorite essential oil and you have a nice smelling cleaner that disinfects and is safe for your countertop.

Whatever you use to clean your countertop, make sure that it says it is safe for granite countertops. Remember the rule to avoid acidic liquids such as bleach, ammonia or harsh abrasive materials and always use a soft cloth to wipe your granite countertops down with.

Arch City Granite has the best selection of granite countertops

When you are in the market for granite countertop upgrades, come see our friendly and educated staff at Arch City Granite. Not only do we have a large selection of granite pieces in our showroom for you to see and touch, but our staff can answer all the questions you may have concerning granite and all natural stone countertops. Upgrading your countertops to granite, marble, quartz or soapstone is a big decision but as far as upgrades go, it’s one of the best decisions you can make. Stop by today, we look forward to assisting you.

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Is it Possible to Cut and Prepare Food on a Granite/Marble Kitchen Countertop? https://www.archcitygranite.com/is-it-possible-to-cut-and-prepare-food-on-a-granite-marble-kitchen-countertop/ Wed, 18 Apr 2018 14:18:11 +0000 https://www.archcitygranite.com/?p=4629 Now that you have your beautiful natural stone countertop installed in your kitchen, you will be spending a few moments staring into its rich surface. You will love how its smooth edges and color variations bring aesthetics and a sense of cool perfection. You will definitely want to take steps to protect your newest investment […]

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Now that you have your beautiful natural stone countertop installed in your kitchen, you will be spending a few moments staring into its rich surface. You will love how its smooth edges and color variations bring aesthetics and a sense of cool perfection.

You will definitely want to take steps to protect your newest investment from Arch City Granite. You already know that your countertops can take the heat. If you have wondered if you should be preparing food on your new countertops then we have the information you need to stay informed.

Cutting and preparing food on marble

Nothing transforms a kitchen like marble. The veins of color add elegance that few surfaces can compete with. If you like preparing food, and you have a marble countertop, you might want to consider investing in a few different cutting boards.

While marble can be very durable, you have to remember that Marble is highly susceptible to acids. If an acid can make its way through the sealant, it will react with your marble countertop. That being said, you should never cut things like lemons, grapefruits, oranges, and other acidic fruits or vegetables on your marble.

Most sealants can handle the acid for a bit, but if you miss a spot during cleanup, you could be dooming your marble to etching. Besides, using a cutting board will keep your marble countertops looking their best. If you want more information about marble sealants click here. Wood cutting boards are great for vegetables and bread. If you need to cut and prepare raw meats, you should use a plastic cutting board that you can throw into a dishwasher. The reason behind this is bacteria. Bacteria from raw meats can seep into wood. The high temperatures of your dishwasher is pretty effective at killing bacteria, so plastic is perfect for all your meaty desires.

Cutting and preparing food on granite

Granite is definitely harder than the edge of your knives. You will wear out your knives long before you wear out your new granite countertop. Granite can take a beating and is one of the best countertops for families with little kids. Still though, even though granite is super durable you might want to avoid preparing food right on the surface.

Your granite countertop from Arch City Granite comes equipped with a sealant layer. The sealant gives it that beautiful shine. Food preparation and the cleaning supplies used to disinfect surfaces can damage your sealant. If the sealant gets damaged, your granite can then allow substances to seep inside. This can lead to color changes and pitting. Now this doesn’t mean you can cut a quick carrot, or chop some celery. You definitely can, but it is better to be in the habit of using a cutting board whenever you cut and prepare your food.

Arch City Granite

So the big answer to the question about cutting and preparing food on granite or marble is to play it safe by using a cutting board. For more information about granite, marble, or other natural stone countertops, you need to come to Arch City Granite and check out our vast selection. We have colors, and types of stone you are looking for. When you think professional countertops, think Arch City Granite.

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