Universal Stone

  If one of your New Year's resolutions is to remodel your outdated or dysfunctional kitchen, 2024 is a great year to tackle this project. Kitchen remodeling projects not only allow you to upgrade one of the most important rooms in your home, but they can also significantly increase the resale value of your property. As we head into 2024, there are several key kitchen remodeling trends that can ensure you maximize your return on investment. Create an Open-Concept Kitchen One of the most popular kitchen remodeling trends for 2024 is the creation of an open-concept kitchen. By knocking down walls and barriers between the kitchen and living spaces, you can design a brighter, more functional kitchen tailored to modern lifestyles. Open-concept kitchen layouts also make entertaining easier by allowing your guests to mingle across spaces. Removing walls provides the illusion of a larger area, taking your kitchen from cramped to spacious and airy. Invest in Smart Storage Solutions No ma...

Protecting marble against etching and staining takes effort, but only a little. Here are a few tips to ensure your marble countertops look their best for many years. SEAL Sealing repels staining agents but doesn't make it stainproof. We recommend re-sealing every 12 months. PROTECT Vinegar, citrus, and tomato will etch your stone, so don't let anything citrus or acidic sit on the stone. CLEAN  Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners. Vacuum or sweep up loose dirt and regularly use a damp mop or sponge. Any over-the-counter products that state "safe for granite , marble, and quartzite" are recommended, along with the instructions below for everyday cleaning. If residue is left on top, use a flat-blade razor to pop off residue instead of using a harsh abrasive. Magic Erasers (soft white side) are also great for removing residue. EVERYDAY CLEANING RECOMMENDATION  There is NO warranty against staining and etching as it is a natural stone; proper care and maintenance will ...

  When considering kitchen remodeling projects, one of the best investments you can make is in granite countertops. Not only do granite countertops add natural beauty and elegance to any kitchen, but they also increase the value and functionality of the space. Whether you choose a classic white and gray granite pattern or opt for a bold, colorful stone, there are many reasons why granite countertops can be a worthwhile investment. Timeless and Durable Natural Stone Granite is one of the most popular choices for countertops because it is incredibly durable and long-lasting. Granite countertops are resistant to scratches, stains, heat, and cracks, which means they will stay looking beautiful for decades to come. The natural patterns and colors found in granite slabs ensure no two countertops are exactly the same. Granite's timeless aesthetic allows it to work in both traditional and contemporary kitchen settings. Unlike manmade materials that may look dated after a few years, the e...

  When it comes to choosing countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, the options can be overwhelming. Two popular choices are quartz and quartzite, but what's the difference between the two, and which one is right for your home? In this blog post, we'll explore the differences and similarities between quartz and quartzite countertops, focusing on care and maintenance, durability, cost, and appearance.  Quartz and quartzite may sound similar, but they are actually quite different. Quartzite is a natural stone that forms from sandstone under intense heat and pressure, fused with quartz crystals. It comes in a wide array of possibilities of colors and hues due to mineral content. On the other hand, quartz is an engineered material that combines quartz crystals with resins, pigments, and glass fragments. This process creates a durable, non-porous countertop with a wide range of colors and designs. If you value a wide selection and a reliable, consistent appearance, quartz is an e...

  Quartz Countertops If you are planning a kitchen renovation, choosing the right surface material is likely at the top of your to-do list. Over the last decade, quartz countertops have skyrocketed in popularity, blending luxurious aesthetics with unmatched everyday functionality. When looking for the ideal countertops for kitchens, quartz consistently ranks as a top choice among homeowners and interior designers alike. Whether you are dreaming of expansive quartz kitchen island countertops or a subtle, modern aesthetic, understanding the nuances of this material will help you make the best investment for your home. The Science Behind the Stone: How It’s Made Unlike completely natural stone slabs cut directly from the earth, quartz is an engineered product. The engineered stone manufacturing process involves combining about 90% natural quartz crystals—sometimes referred to globally as quarzo stone—with 10% polymer resins and pigments. Some variations even incorporate glass or metal...