A Multitude Of Backsplash Options…
When it comes to backsplash options for your kitchen, there are a multitude of choices. From using the same countertop material with a 3-1/2″ backsplash run, to full height backsplash, to tile, there are plenty of options. If you go the tile route, your options multiply even more and you can create a look and feel all of your own.
Let’s take a look a few samples…
This kitchen features a Sienna Silver Travertine backsplash, which pulls in the colors of the countertop and other decor.
Posted in Decorating, Design on July 30th, 2012 by Barb | | 0 Comments
Recipe: Easy Yellow Cake Chocolate Chip Bars
Here’s a good recipe to try. It is easy to make and very tasty!
Easy Yellow Cake Chocolate Chip Bars
1 box yellow cake
1/2 cup melted butter
1 tsp. vanilla
1 bag 12 oz. chocolate chips
In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter,vanilla and cake mix. Beat until well blended. Pour batter in a greased 13″ x 9″ pan. Top with chocolate chips. Bake for 25 minutes.
Enjoy!
Barb
Posted in Cooking in your kitchen on July 28th, 2012 by Barb | | 0 Comments
Granite Countertops—What Is The Difference Between A Fissure And A Crack?
I recently received an e-mail from a customer who purchased their granite countertops from a “Big Box” store and weren’t too pleased with the result. They attached several photos and asked my opinion about an issue they were having. Let’s take a look at the question…
“I recently bought a granite countertop from “Big Box” store “X” and since day one, I noticed a crack in the stone and they, along with the fabricator of the stone, said that it was a fissure. Any chance you could give me your opinion?”
Since I don’t make it a habit to open attachments from e-mails of people I don’t know, and didn’t want to put myself in a position to possibly get into some sort of legal issue, I did not respond to this person’s e-mail. I do feel however, that the topic is of value, so I decided to respond here.
First of all, let me just say, “BEWARE” when buying granite from a “Big Box” store. While many widgets and gadgets may be less expensive at a “Big Box” store, granite countertops typically are not and if you want a quality product, you may as well forget it all together. Also—“Big Box” stores require “Big” profits! While you may think you are getting a deal on your granite, think again. Most “Big Box” stores are the most expensive place to buy, and typically use a lower priced fabricator, and you know what that means.
As far as the fissure versus crack issue, it is hard to say for sure without seeing the stone. Fissures are very common in granite and can be described as a visible separation, or fracture along inter-crystalline boundaries that occur naturally in the stone. According to “Fissure Cut Bait,” an article found in the June, 2007 issue of Stone Business magazine, “there are several ways to determine if a suspected area in a stone is a crack, or a fissure. Fissures are not typically prominent in sink areas. A crack could be caused in a sink area during transportation, or from in-proper handling of the stone. Fissures do not change the plane of a surface. If a level was placed across the questionable area, you shouldn’t be able to slide a business card underneath it. Fissures will show up in more than one area of the stone, not just in one place. With fissures, you shouldn’t be able to catch a fingernail, business card, car key, etc. in the area.”
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Posted in Granite on July 26th, 2012 by Barb | | 0 Comments
Granite Countertops—Spotlight On White Thunder
In this blog, I wanted to spotlight the color, White Thunder, which is quarried in Brazil.
White Thunder Granite
White Thunder typically contains large areas of quartz, which gives the stone depth. It also contains some mica that gives the stone some reflective qualities. White Thunder has a gentle flowing pattern that creates a movement throughout the stone. If you like shades of gray, white, cream, black, gold and brown, you might want to take a look at this stone. White Thunder would work nice in a kitchen for countertops, or an island. It would also make a nice fireplace surround, or bar top.
If you are interested in this color, or others, please make sure you visit our showroom.
Following is a photo of our current stock:
White Thunder Granite
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Posted in Spotlight Colors on July 24th, 2012 by Barb | | 0 Comments
Add A Cozy Seating Area With A Granite Peninsula…
While granite islands are popular for additional seating in a kitchen, not every kitchen design has the space to accommodate one. Another option however, that might work is to to add a peninsula to your design. Peninsula’s work well with smaller kitchens, or galley type designs. Peninsula’s often provide a smaller seating area that not only works perfect for small children for eating, or a work area, but provides a cozy setting for adults.
Let’s take a look at a project we recently fabricated and installed a granite peninsula:
Abyss Granite
Notice how the peninsula extends out and connects the rooms.
Abyss Granite
The peninsula provides a comfortable space for stools and provides a good spot for both eating, and communication.
Abyss Granite
If you are interested in looking at some granite for your kitchen countertops, or remodel, make sure you stop by our showroom.
Thanks for reading!
Barb
Posted in Granite, Kitchen Ideas on July 23rd, 2012 by Barb | | 0 Comments
