Why Granite Countertops Are a Timeless Addition to Your Home

While granite countertops are not as trendy as they were a few years ago, they are still one of the best options available for kitchens, bathrooms, and any other regularly used rooms. Granite has many winning qualities, a few of which we have outlined below.

Granite Countertops Don’t Scratch and Are Heat Resistant

Granite is incredibly hard to scratch. This makes it an excellent choice for the kitchen. Occasional knife scrapes or even using your countertop as a cutting board will not affect granite to any extent, though it may dull your knives. You won’t have to worry about scratches ruining the look of your countertops, and you will never have to re-stain them because they are naturally colored. Granite is also impressively resistant to heat. When you are pulling pans out of the oven or moving pots off the stove, you won’t have to worry about slipping up and ruining your countertops by setting a hot pan on them. Granite can take the heat.

Granite Countertops Don’t Stain

No matter what color granite countertops you get, you won’t have to worry about them staining. With proper sealing, granite holds up to all brightly colored foods and drinks without a problem. Even if the sealant on your granite countertops was poorly done, most colors and patterns of granite are so intricate, stains will not be noticeable if they occur.

Granite Countertops Offer Many Design Choices

Since granite comes in a variety of colors and grains, you will be able to find the right granite for any color scheme, room design, or purpose. Granite comes in well over 20 shades. If you want your countertops to blend in and let your custom cabinets take center stage, granite works. If you would rather your countertops be the statement piece of your kitchen, granite is still an excellent choice. Even though granite countertops are very affordable, they look incredibly expensive and add a certain level of sophistication to any home. They are also timeless, so you won’t find yourself in need of picking out new counters just two years down the road.

Granite Countertops Are an Excellent Investment

If you are remodeling your kitchen, it is time to take it up a notch and add granite countertops. Due to its rich appearance, durable nature, and unique design, you will reap the benefits of investing in this countertop option if you ever decide to sell or rent out your home. Even if you never want to sell your house, granite countertops are still an excellent choice because they will wear gracefully over the years. Granite even stands up to the activities of children without a problem and will look beautiful for decades.

Thanks to the attractive qualities and low maintenance of granite countertops, they are found in many homes of people of all ages. Each slab of granite is naturally unique, meaning you will never find someone else with the same exact countertops as you. This beautiful material is one of our top recommendations for any home.

Our List of the Best Features to Include in Your Custom Cabinets

The best part about getting custom cabinets is the ability to do whatever you want. With carpentry, the sky is the limit, so if you dream up an idea, tell us about it and we will make it happen. Beyond how amazing they look, the options for customization is what makes custom cabinets so much more functional than what you can buy at the local home improvement store. Here is our list of the best features to include in yours.

#1 - Pantry cabinets.

We can install cabinet drawers that open up from the top to provide immediate access to pantry items like potatoes and onions. You won’t need a bag to store them in because you just pour them in for perfect and immediate storage. By adding a clear glass front, you can always see what you have and when you need to head to the store.

#2 - Spice cabinet.

If you like to cook a lot, you are probably wrestling with your spices on a regular basis. By giving you a narrow slid-out cabinet with spice storage, you can instantly see and access all your spices.

#3 - Divided pan storage.

Instead of digging for the perfect size pan, you can easily sort and organize with divided cabinets. By simply placing dividers, your custom cabinets will always stay clean and make it easy for you to access pans, lids, and even pots.

#4 - Utensil storage.

Instead of using a plastic divider for your forks, knives, and spoons, we can build one into a drawer that is multiple levels. This gives you the ability to separate daily utensils from what you save for holidays and parties.

#5 - Pullout Lazy Susan.

Corner cabinets can be difficult to access and to clean. By giving you a Lazy Susan that you can actually pull out of the cupboard, you can always see what you are storing and easily access your canned goods, etc.

#6 - Built-in garbage and recycling.

Every kitchen should have a garbage and recycling bin hidden into the cabinetry. This keeps the garbage easily in reach but out of the way.

#7 - Utensil hanging.

If you do not like the appearance of your spatulas being on top of the counter, we can create a narrow cabinet that pulls out, with hooks for all your cooking utensils.

#8 - Built-in and removable baskets.

If you like the idea of being able to keep food in your cabinets but want to be able to clean that area, we can install removable baskets. They will slide into your cabinetry to blend in but can also be removed to rinse out. This makes it easy to store fruit, avocados, and veggies within easy reach.

#9 - Cutting board.

We can install a cutting board that slides into your cabinetry, but to increase the efficiency of your kitchen, we can cut a hole in it and build the garbage underneath. You can chop and toss without any additional effort.

#10 - Cookbook storage.

If you like to cook, why keep your books in the living room or library? We can create cookbook storage so they are always within easy reach.

To learn more about custom cabinets and how they can improve your life, call and schedule a consultation.

Granite Countertops vs. Marble and Laminate

If you are considering placing granite countertops in your home, you may be wondering how they compare with other materials. Granite is incredibly popular and has become the material of choice for many modern home buyers. Replacing both laminate and tile, you are more likely to find granite in new constructions now than in years past. Given the diversity of colors, styles, and design, it is no wonder that designers are also including them in remodels. Still, when you go to remodel your kitchen, you need to select a material that fits your needs, rather than just being a design trend. Here is what you need to know about granite and the comparable options.

Natural Materials

Both granite and marble are natural materials, unlike laminate. As something that is naturally occurring, there is a uniqueness to each slab. They are not manufactured in a lab to your or anyone’s exact specifications. This makes them incredibly interesting, and it can be fun to select your counters from a variety of options. However, if you need it to look an exact way, it could take some time to find the right counters, or you may need to temporarily put in laminate while you hunt for a slab of granite that you are absolutely in love with.

Durability

Granite countertops are the most durable when compared with marble and laminate. They are hardy and less likely to stain, chip, or crack than the other two. For the most part, granite is resistant to foods that are acidic as well. Marble can be made more durable with regular sealing. However, laminate is naturally prone to cracks and chips because of how thin it is. This is more likely to show on the corners or edges of the counters.

Cleanup

All three are fairly easy to clean, but they can also soak in the color of food or drinks that are placed on them. For this reason, you should clean them right away. Granite is the least likely to show stains, but you should still reseal it once every two years. Marble, on the other hand, need to be resealed twice every year. This makes the maintenance cost and time requirement much higher with marble.

Price

When it comes to cost, nothing is as inexpensive a laminate and it looks it. If you want your counters to look high-end or custom, laminate is not a good solution, since it is all about function and not design. Marble, on the other hand, can look very glamorous, but it is the most expensive of the three. Given its ability to chip or become stained, this is a better option for bathroom counters that are smaller and receive less use. For your kitchen, we recommend granite countertops because while they cost far more than granite, the cost is worth it. Your kitchen will look amazing, and your counters will last for years to come while still looking incredible. They stand the test of time, which means less remodeling cost in the future.

To learn more about granite countertops or your options, call us today.

Why Hiring a General Contractor Is Better than Hiring Your Own Subcontractors

For many home or business owners, it’s tempting just to find your own subcontractors and leave a general contractor out of the picture. Many people believe this is easier, less expensive, and makes more sense. However, a general contractor has connections, expertise, and planning and organizational abilities that will become assets to your building project in the near future.

Connections

While general contractors specialize in running the show, hiring subcontractors, and getting the job completed from start to finish, subcontractors specialize in very specific areas like plumbing, masonry, framing, electricity, and even concrete work. You may think you know plenty of subcontractors to hire the right ones yourself, but we guarantee we will think of details you may not realize could come up later, and we know the best in the business who will complete a job the right way in a timely fashion. If you hire subcontractors on your own, you could get taken advantage of financially. We know who charges what for their work and who can provide you with a more accurate budget for your building project, so you never have to worry about “surprise” costs. Since we have been in the business so long, we know the best subcontractors who will be worth every penny you spend.

In addition to people connections, a general contractor is also responsible for providing all the equipment needed to build your project. If you hire subcontractors on your own, you may end up having to acquire special rentals or tools that you otherwise wouldn't have needed access to, so instead of spending more unnecessary money, let us handle it for you.

Expertise

Most general contractors have built hundreds of homes, if not thousands. We understand challenges will occur, and we know how to handle any problem no matter what size. We are able to see the bigger picture when you are concerned about the details and become stressed about the little things. We can remind you that there is always a way to remedy a problem, and we know who to contact to provide a solution.

You will hire your general contractor while you are planning the building of your home or business, and we will help you come up with original ideas, budgeting strategies, building materials, and a finalized blueprint. From there, we will guide you and all the subcontractors to the finished product, keeping everyone on task and happy, so you don’t have to deal with begrudged, injured, or confused workers. Basically, a general contractor does all the dirty work, so you don’t have to.

Hiring a general contractor is always a better decision than hiring your own subcontractors for any building project, no matter how big or small it may be. Many people get in over their heads trying to handle projects like this without the tremendous help of a contractor. To schedule a time to meet to discuss your dream home, contact our office.

If you are getting ready to complete your bath remodel, there is a good chance you have been on Pinterest looking for ideas or browsing your favorite issues of Better Homes and Gardens. We have pictures we can show you as well, and enjoy being part of the creative process. When it comes to remodeling your home, the bathroom can be a great deal of fun, for while it is a small room, it also provides you with an incredible amount of flexibility. With your bathroom, you don’t have to worry about it matching or blending in with the other rooms in your home. You can go in any direction you like, and we can take you there.

Beyond the aesthetics of your bathroom, it needs to have a high level of functionality. These five lifestyle hacks can make your bathroom more efficient and organized.

#1 - Built-in wall storage.

Every bathroom needs this. If you are tired of having towels flooding out of the linen closet or need more storage for toilet paper and extra bottles of shampoo, built-in wall storage can tuck it all away neatly out of sight. This is ideal for both large and small spaces.

#2 - Hidden hamper.

If you are like most families, dirty clothes tend to pile up quickly, sometimes on the bathroom floor. When completing your bath remodel, we can install a hidden hamper under the kitchen sink. Just like your garbage can be hidden in the kitchen, so can your dirty clothes. With a removable and washable clothes bag, you can simply pull it out and throw everything in the wash before replacing it again. Tell the kids to throw their clothes in after a shower, and you will spend less time picking up.

#3 - Custom tile shower.

Your shower can be neat, organized, and even give you a place to sit down and shave your legs. We can give you a beautiful and functional custom tile shower when completing your bath remodel. While a high-end feature, this is also an incredibly convenient way to get clean.

#4 - Built-in television.

If you need to catch up on your morning news while getting ready, we can install a television. You can stay up-to-date without sacrificing your morning routine.

#5 - Heated floors.

Gone are the days of feeling cold after your shower when you have heated floors. They are comfortable, producing steady and consistent heat while making your routine more luxurious. If you are a family who turns the heat up to give the kids a bath, this is a simple solution to keep that room of your home warm and toasty.

There are so many ways to improve the functionality of your bathroom. We can provide you with suggestions and solutions after viewing your space and discussing what your family’s unique needs are. Our goal is to create a truly stunning, beautiful, and ideal space for your family to use on a daily basis.

Five Things to Consider Prior to Your Kitchen Cabinet Installation

When planning your kitchen cabinet installation, it is time to think about the details. Remodeling your kitchen can be exciting, especially when thinking about the colors and textures you want to use and the overall design concept. Given how frequently the kitchen is used, remodeling it can make a significant impact on the look and feel of your home.

Beyond the basic design concept, you should take the time to really think about how you use the kitchen, so your remodel will provide you with a space that is as functional as it is beautiful. Here are five things to consider prior to your remodel and kitchen cabinet installation.

#1 - Where do you want your appliances to go?

The layout of your kitchen should be set in stone before demolition and certainly prior to installing any of your cabinets. Your major appliances will need a set spot, including your refrigerator, dishwasher, and sink. You should also consider where you want your small appliances to go. Things like a toaster oven, microwave, coffee pot, toaster, etc. can all have a set place in your new kitchen design and do not have to be simply sitting on the counter. Instead, they could be built-in to your cabinet design (this is often the case with the microwave). We can even create appliance cupboards for things like your coffee pot. This way, they are hidden out of view and can remain in position and plugged in for convenience's sake.

#2 - Do you entertain?

If you like to host parties, let us know. We can design your kitchen cabinets to house the items you use on a daily basis and also to store your extra plates, cups, napkins, serving platters and anything else you use in the course of entertaining.

#3 - What do you use when cooking?

If there is a certain type of cuisine that you cook or certain types of cooking utensils you use on a regular basis, these things should be easy to access and easy to reach. For example, if you use your wok daily, there should be a place for it near the stovetop. If you use your kitchen to bake, you should have storage for all your baking utensils and supplies next to each other to make your baking preparations more convenient.

#4 - How many cooks are in your kitchen?

When cooking is a family affair, it is wise to design the space to allow for multiple people to participate. Your kitchen cabinet installation plays an important role in this because we can create multiple stations that have a cooking or prep surface while providing storage space for the tools that will be needed in that area. For example, a prep station should have access to cutting boards, mixing bowls, and knives.

#5 - What else do you use your kitchen for?

We can install things like a built-in desk or place charging outlets alongside your cabinets so you can watch your favorite cooking shows on your iPad while making tomorrow's dinner. The possibilities are endless.

To get ideas for your kitchen cabinet installation, call our office today.

Tips for Picking Out Wood Cabinets

Our wood cabinets are made from select hardwoods that will last a lifetime. If you are remodeling or building a kitchen or multipurpose room in your home, there will come a time when you must pick out what type of wood cabinets you would prefer. We recommend only choosing cabinets of the highest quality materials that will perform well and look classy for years to come. Some of the categories you should take into consideration during your decision process are hardness, grain, and color.

Hardness

The hardness of your wood cabinets is important, because when you invest in an attractive, long-lasting wood option, you want it to withstand the damage from daily use, children, and even moving appliances around. While Brazilian walnut wood is the hardest you can find; the commonly used white pine is the softest. You will want to consider how trafficked your kitchen is when you determine the hardness of your wood cabinets. The hardest wood option may not be necessary for your uses, but you could instead choose a wood of medium hardness. Some popular options that fall into this “medium” category that are often chosen for cabinets are yellow pine, American walnut, cherry, silver maple, and African mahogany. A widely popular hardier option is either the white or red oak. When you visit to discuss your wood cabinets with us, we can help you scale out what level of hardness you need so you can more easily narrow down your choices.

Grain

Our solid wood cabinets and even our veneers have variations of grain. Different trees are unique in design and beauty, and our fine wood cabinets created from these trees carry on their attractive attributes. Some grain is strong, colorful, and distinct, and it will show through any finish you put on it— This is common with oak cabinets. Other options like walnut or maple wood will have fine grain patterns that are lighter in color. The grain you choose depends entirely on your taste. With some woods, the grain can be muted down quite a bit by the shade or finish you choose.

In addition to grain, all of your wood cabinets will come with their very own unique characteristics like small holes from bird pecks or worms and knots. These characteristics are not only interesting to admire, but they are also proof that you have chosen a sophisticated and genuine solid wood option for your cabinets.

Color and Shade

While choosing a color for your wood cabinets is important, even if you decide on an option like yellow pine, which is lighter in color, you can stain and finish it to look darker. Some woods even darken over time rather than fade. For example, a cherry wood will already have a reddish, dark hue to it, but it will also soften and become darker with age. In this case, you should choose a lighter finish as to not overpower the color. As you are narrowing down your wood cabinets, ask for more information about how the wood will fade or darken with age. This will help you better determine an appropriate stain and color choice. Some woods may even require a heat shield to keep them from changing color due to radiation from the oven and stove.

While you are considering your options for wood cabinets, you may have more questions. You can call or visit us for more information about all of your options so that you can pick the best choice for your home.