Paramount Granite Blog » Granite http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog Just another WordPress weblog Fri, 03 Feb 2012 21:43:58 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.0.1 Maintain Your Granite Countertops With Ease… http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/25/maintain-your-granite-countertops-with-ease%e2%80%a6/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/25/maintain-your-granite-countertops-with-ease%e2%80%a6/#comments Wed, 25 Jan 2012 19:04:17 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5781 Caring for your granite countertops is a relatively simple process. We do however, get a lot of questions about maintenance. While cleaning with hot soapy water is your best bet for everyday maintenance, there are a number of other products on the market for both cleaning and sealing.

Let’s take a look at our stone care products:

SCI Stone Care Kit

At PGC, we offer a stone care kit for purchase, from SCI, that includes both a cleaner and sealer. The cleaner comes in a spray bottle with a pump and is ready to use. You just spray it on and wipe dry with a clean towel, or paper towels. The sealer also comes is a spray bottle with a pump. The directions for use are straight forward and are printed on the back of the bottle. Please keep in mind, that re-sealing your countertops should only be done if you notice that your granite is taking on water. ( e.g. A water glass leaves a ring, or water no longer beads up with spills, or when cleaning.)

Countertop Wipes

We also sell Countertop wipes from SCI. The wipes offer a quick method for wiping down your kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity, etc. They work great for wiping up dust, especially on black granites.

1 Year Extended Care & Maintenance Package

We also off a  1 Year Extended Care & Maintenance Package. The package offers a worry free option for the consumer, by letting us take care of any maintenance needs. The package includes:

  •  Sanitizing and resealing all countertops
  •  Faucet deck touch up (Removing all normal hard water build up, etc.)
  • Seam maintenance (e.g. Various circumstances may cause houses to move and/or shift, which in turn may cause some seams to shift.) Affected seams would be re-shimmed and leveled.
  • Up to 3 chips repaired. While chips are rare, they can happen. (e.g. Banging pots & pans at sink area, etc.)

If you are interested in any of these stone care options for your countertops, please give us a call, or stop by our showroom.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/25/maintain-your-granite-countertops-with-ease%e2%80%a6/feed/ 0 Bar, Bath, And Beyond… http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/19/bar-bath-and-beyond%e2%80%a6/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/19/bar-bath-and-beyond%e2%80%a6/#comments Thu, 19 Jan 2012 20:52:19 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5735 When it comes to natural countertops for your home, there are numerous possibilities. While many people naturally think of natural stone countertops for their kitchen, they can also be installed for a bar room, bathroom, a dining room, and more. Let’s take a look at a few possibilities:

Bar Area

Crema Bordeaux Granite Bar Top

Cielo De Ouro Granite Bar Top

Bath

White Carrera Marble Vanity Top

Sedna Granite Vanity Top

Dining Room

Louisa Blue Granite Buffet Top

Sedna Granite Buffet Top

Whether you are looking for a natural stone countertop for your kithen, bar, bathroom, or some other room in your home, make sure you swing by for a visit. We’d love to help you with your color selections, as well as any sink and faucet needs.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/19/bar-bath-and-beyond%e2%80%a6/feed/ 0 Top 10 Color Choices For 2011… http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/18/top-10-color-choices-for-2011%e2%80%a6/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/18/top-10-color-choices-for-2011%e2%80%a6/#comments Wed, 18 Jan 2012 19:23:27 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5719 It is always interesting to look back and find out what the best sellers were for the year, so I took some time and did just that. While there are colors on the list that have been popular over the years, for their consistency and classic look, such as St. Cecilia, Opalescence, Tropic Brown, Labrador Green, etc., this list includes a variety of colors that contain flow, movement and some pizzazz—and I am not surprised. Today’s consumers are not afraid to express their tastes in their homes.  If you are looking for elegance and charm, or energy with an attractive style, by choosing natural stone for countertops, you can’t go wrong, and the color selections are plentiful. 

If you are interested in these colors, or others for you project, make sure you stop by our showroom.

 Top 10 Best Selling Colors at PGC for 2011

  1. St. Cecilia Classic
  2. Opalescence
  3. Tropic Brown
  4. Labrador Green
  5. Verde Butterfly
  6. Sedna
  7. White Carrera Marble
  8. Cielo De Ouro
  9. Golden Crystal
  10. Absolute Black

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/18/top-10-color-choices-for-2011%e2%80%a6/feed/ 0 Granite Countertops—Thick or Thin? http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/17/granite-countertops%e2%80%94thick-or-thin/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/17/granite-countertops%e2%80%94thick-or-thin/#comments Tue, 17 Jan 2012 19:00:22 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5707 One of the questions we hear from time to time is, “What is the typical thickness of a granite countertop?” Well—that answer can vary a bit, depending on what part of the country you live in. In the midwest, a 3 cm thickness is the most readily available and considered aesethetically appealing. You will however, see some countertops (such as vanities) that are 2 cm in thickness, depending on the color selection, and the material selection, as some colors and materials are only available in a 2 cm thickness. If a 2 cm thickness is not appealing, the edge can often be laminated to make the stone appear larger. Of course, this is always a personal preference. There is nothing wrong with a 2 cm look. In fact, in some western states, such as California, a 2 cm thickness is considered standard and is the norm.

While 3 cm is the most common thickness for granite countertops for us here, it is common to cut backsplash runs to a 2 cm thickness. Most consumers prefer this look, as it gives a clean, sleek appearance that is more appealing.

Let’s take a look at a few sample thicknesses:

Here’s a sample of 3 cm Red Dragon Granite.

Here’s a sample of 2 cm thick Green Onyx.

Here’s a photo showing the two different material thicknesses next to each other.

If you have material questions for an upcoming countertop project, including ones about thickness, please don’t hesitate to ask. We are always ready to help.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/17/granite-countertops%e2%80%94thick-or-thin/feed/ 0 What Is The Country Of Origin For My Granite Countertops? http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/11/what-is-the-country-of-origin-for-my-granite-countertops/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/11/what-is-the-country-of-origin-for-my-granite-countertops/#comments Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:22:26 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5693 If you are curious as to where your granite for your kitchen countertop, bartop, vanity, or  fireplace surround originated, you are not alone. In fact, we get asked that question a lot by our showroom customers. Many customers are surprised to find out that many colors are quarried throughout the world and that most of the more popular colors and exotic colors are imported from other coutnries.

At PGC, I would say that more than 90% of the colors sold come Brazil, which is not surprising as they typically are one of the leading exporters of granite to the US in terms of volume. Granite is also quarried and imported from such places as Italy, Spain, Taiwan, Canada, Africa, Norway, Argentina, Portugal, Finland, Russia, Saudi Arabia, etc. There are a number of colors that quarried locally and others that quarried in the United States, but by far, most consumers are attracted to colors that are found abroad.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/11/what-is-the-country-of-origin-for-my-granite-countertops/feed/ 0 Choose A Faucet Finish To Compliment Your Granite Countertop… http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/10/choose-a-faucet-finish-to-compliment-your-granite-countertop%e2%80%a6/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/10/choose-a-faucet-finish-to-compliment-your-granite-countertop%e2%80%a6/#comments Tue, 10 Jan 2012 21:31:39 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5688 There is no question that granite countertops not only provide an aesthetic appeal to the home, but also add to its value. Many consumers are attracted to granite because of its strength, durability, and large color selections. Granite makes an excellent working surface for a kitchen countertop, or an island, and will enhance the quality of a kitchen, bathroom, or bar area. To compliment the stone, make sure you select a faucet finish that picks up on one of the stones under tone shades and brings out the other decor, such as appliances, paint, or fixures, etc.

Let’s take a look at some popular faucet finishes that are available:

Stainless

A stainless faucet finish is by far, one of the most popular faucet finishes available. A stainless finish works well with a wide variety of countertop colors and is easy to maintain. A stainless finish offers a clean, matte look that is timeless. It can also provide continuity in design from appliances such as refrigerators or a stove.

Chrome

A Chrome finish offers a shiny, bright appearance that works well to accent a variety of color options including black and is also quite popular. .Chrome is actually a  form of brass that is plated with chromium and is tarnish resistant. Chrome is quite versatile and works well with traditional, or contemporary designs.

Bronze

A bronze finish offers a metallic look with a style all of its own. A bronze finish is often flat in appearance, but adds a stream-lined look of luxury that often makes you take a second look. Bronzed finish faucets are popular for bar sinks, showers and vanity tops. They also work well in some kitchens depending on the decor.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/10/choose-a-faucet-finish-to-compliment-your-granite-countertop%e2%80%a6/feed/ 0 Spice Up Your Kitchen With A Variegated Countertop… http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/05/spice-up-your-kitchen-with-a-variegated-countertop%e2%80%a6/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/05/spice-up-your-kitchen-with-a-variegated-countertop%e2%80%a6/#comments Thu, 05 Jan 2012 22:01:32 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5671 Most of us have heard the saying, ”Variety is the spice of life.” Well if you happen to be remodeling and are looking for a bit of variety for your kitchen, you might want to take a look at a variegated stone. When it comes to granite, there are not only hundreds of colors to choose from, but also colors that are consistent and colors with a lot of flow, movement and variety. Let’s take a look at kitchen we recently fabricated and installed that “speaks variety.”

Sedna Granite

This customer used the color, Sedna for their kitchen. Notice how the stone changes from one side of the peninsula/island to the other.

Sedna Granite

Since this was a large peninsula/island, the top required a seam. Notice the seam match and how it gently flows from side to side seamlessly. Beautiful, isn’t it?

Sedna Granite

Whether you are looking for a little spice and variety, or prefer something a little more plain or consistent, we are happy to help, no matter what your taste.  

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/05/spice-up-your-kitchen-with-a-variegated-countertop%e2%80%a6/feed/ 0 Let’s Delve Into 2012! http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/02/lets-delve-into-2012/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/02/lets-delve-into-2012/#comments Mon, 02 Jan 2012 21:17:27 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5627

It is good to be back after a nice, long holiday break between Christmas and New Years. It was nice to relax with family and friends and have some time to do a little reading, something I enjoy.  Isn’t it funny how a little down time can spark some renewed energy? And…just in time for the new year!

While 2011 was a better year for some in the remodeling and building industry, others still found it challenging. At PGC, we are confident the year 2012 will be one of continued growth and we are ready to delve in. We all have to keep in mind that there is good news out there. In fact, according to 8 Cities With The Best Home Price Recovery, “Minneapolis is one of cities in the country that has seen the biggest recovery in home prices.” That is good to hear and many builders are also feeling confident. “Despite the obstacles and challenges that remain, a large number of builders are feeling optimistic about their prospects for 2012, and for valid reasons. While the road to a housing recovery has been a bumpy one, several key market metrics, including housing starts, have steadily trended higher during the past 12 to 18 months,” that according to the article, 2012 Home Building Outlook: Builders Largely Optimistic About Growth found on HousingZone.com. The outlook for the remodeling industry is improving, as well. In Model Year, an article found on the NARI website, Jonathon Smoke, Executive Director for Research at Hanley Wood in Washington, said that “he believes in the the future of the remodeling industry and that many factors show growth.” And… let’s not forget that consumer spending was up during the holiday season. That’s more good news! 

We all certainly have plenty to be thankful for. At PGC, we are committed to our customers, and are looking forward to a busy year, fabricating and installing beautiful countertops for your home!

Happy New Year to all!

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2012/01/02/lets-delve-into-2012/feed/ 0 12 Blogs Of Christmas—Blog #11 Holly Jolly Christmas http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2011/12/19/12-blogs-of-christmas%e2%80%94blog-11-holly-jolly-christmas/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2011/12/19/12-blogs-of-christmas%e2%80%94blog-11-holly-jolly-christmas/#comments Mon, 19 Dec 2011 21:28:25 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5601 Welcome to the 12 Blogs of Christmas!

Blog # 11 Holly Jolly Christmas

Holly has traditionally been associated with Christmas and festivals for centuries. While there are various origins of holly and it’s meaning, many people just view it as a beautiful way to help decorative the home. In light of that, in this blog, I wanted to focus on the color Green, which is not only popular for holly and trees at Christmas time, but also appealing when it comes to decorating your home throughout the year.

Let’s take a look at some green countertop options:

Cosmos Granite

Labrador Green Granite

Verde Butterfly Granite

Verde Butterfly Granite

Forest Green Marble

Tropical Green Granite

Here’s a few links to some other green kitchen ideas:

Thanks for reading!

Barb

]]> http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2011/12/19/12-blogs-of-christmas%e2%80%94blog-11-holly-jolly-christmas/feed/ 2 12 Blogs Of Christmas—Blog # 10 Let It Snow http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2011/12/15/12-blogs-of-christmas%e2%80%94blog-10-let-it-snow/ http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/2011/12/15/12-blogs-of-christmas%e2%80%94blog-10-let-it-snow/#comments Thu, 15 Dec 2011 21:55:19 +0000 Barb http://www.paramountgranite.com/blog/?p=5585 Welcome to the 12 Blogs of Christmas!

Blog # 10 Let It Snow

In this blog, I wanted to focus on some winter whites for those upcoming remodeling projects that include countertops.  After yesterday’s December rain, I have to admit, I am ready for some snow. With the holiday season upon us, a fresh dusting of snow would brighten things. With that in mind, I thought I would show off some white material colors representative of the season.

Let’ take a look…

Crema Antartica Granite

Snow White Dupont Zodiaq

Stellar Snow Silestone

Artic White Granite

Blizzard Caesarstone

Thanks for reading and get ready for those shovels!

Barb

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