Anyone who has seen and felt granite as a home stone product knows how beautiful it can make any bathroom or kitchen countertop. Certain stone products, especially granite, are timeless. They’ve been used for centuries in ancient and modern civilizations throughout the world. Even though granite has stood the test of time, there might still be questions about how “dated” using granite is.

This is a fair question for anything that’s been depended upon for so many years. Technology, cultures, and trends bring about new ideas and new sensibilities all the time. Granite’s fairly recent popularity could add to a sense that granite may no longer be on the cutting edge of interior design.

Even if this thinking were popular, anybody who decided to make a change from their granite countertops would quickly realize all the aesthetic and tangible features they’d be missing. The practical benefits of granite, the beauty and the convenience, are more than enough to deter anyone from turning away from granite countertops. But, every once and a while, we may have an itch for a decorating change, or have an impulse to shake things up a bit. One of the changes a granite countertop can make is to the backsplash.

The backsplash options are numerous, and it would be wisest to make the backsplash the last choice in your kitchen design. It’s much easier to match the backsplash to the countertop, as opposed to vice versa. The color and material of the backsplash need to match or complement the countertop as much as possible. The most popular backsplash options are granite, marble, glass, and ceramic tile.

If the granite countertops have already been installed, and you are looking for decorating change, the backsplash is a great place to start. With so many options, it’s good to give them all the eye test, and see what best enhances the countertop. Check out different tile samples, or different shades of granite combinations. The backsplash is a place where homeowners can retain their quality of stone product while flexing some design muscle.

There is always a reasonable alternative to “the real thing”. A lot of substitutions have become widely accepted, if not commonplace. The cosmetic industry makes its highly lucrative living off of providing substitutes for what’s real. Giving people the personal look and feel that they want will usually come at a price. Designing or remodeling your home’s kitchen will take the same type of consideration that a new toupee or wig for your head would. Should you go with what’s real? Or should you take the most inexpensive route?

The Bottom Line

The answers really depend on personal preference, and priorities. For some people, it’s just not enough to cover a bald spot with a toupee. But it’s also important that the hairpiece looks authentic. For others, money is simply the bottom line. If the toupee can cover the bald spot, and it won’t cost an arm and a leg to purchase it, then that’s the one for them. That rationale may seem overly simplistic. But for many, these choices are not much more difficult. The rest of us may require a little more information on our countertop choices before deciding.

Consider The Costs

Before moving off of money, let’s consider pricing again. If the cost is the only determining factor, faux granite should win hands down. Even though the costs of faux granite are exceptionally lower than genuine granite, a consumer should still do their due diligence in researching. Many companies may promote costs that do not cover everything that’s going to be required. For instance, an advertisement for faux granite might appear really cheap, but may fail to include labor costs for installation. Failing to do simple research could have a consumer end up spending more than they ever expected. They might have considered getting real granite had they known the actual cost.

Genuine granite can be out of many homeowners’ budget ranges. When all factors are considered, its overall costs may be closer to the faux granite than originally expected. With that in mind, genuine granite countertops should be viewed as an investment. Granite countertops will definitely add value to your home, which will make its resell potentials much higher. On the contrary, faux granite may actually be a liability in the eyes of some future buyers. The money any buyer would have to invest in a home without high quality countertops will more than likely be deducted from any bid.

We’re big fans of granite over here at Affordable Surface Products and so are our clients.  Granite is an extremely popular option used by many for remodeling projects due to its beauty, affordability and durability.  But few realize that historically granite has had multiple uses.  A recent article in USA Today outlines some of those uses.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

One of the more famous areas of America using granite is the Mount Rushmore National Memorial.  The face carvings of four U.S. presidents on the south eastern side of Mount Rushmore is all granite.  Initially the idea was to promote South Dakota’s politicians.  But others insisted the project should honor national leaders and their accomplishments.  Over 3 million people visit the monument annually.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is located in Constitution Gardens near the Lincoln Memorial in Washington DC.  What made this possible, according to the USA article, is fundraising of veterans and families who wanted to honor soldiers lost in combat.  This is made with granite, sandblasted with more than 58,000 names of veterans who died or were missing in action.  It’s a touching place and well worth a visit.

Diana, Princess of Wales Memorial fountain

The beloved Princess of Wales is honored in London’s Hyde Park with a memorial fountain. It is made from 545 pieces of Cornish granite and shaped by computer-controlled images.  This is said to reflect the beloved Princess’s life.  The granite fountain flows from the highest point cascading into a pool.  Three bridges can be crossed directly to the fountain.  This symbolizes the princess’s openness and quality, Royal Park officials say.

Want to learn more about granite?

Granite was quarried long, long ago in ancient Egypt.  Historians say its original purpose was for construction.  This natural stone was even then admired for being strong and durable and for having a huge range of textures, including medium to coarse.  In addition to its textures, its range of colors was admired as well.

Want to learn more about how we work with granite?  Call us at 336-375-5672 or write to us today!

Granite has long been appreciated by renovators and decorators and what’s not to like? Granite is durable, gorgeous, elegant and affordable. This blog outlines some small projects using granite that can add value and style to your home.

Granite countertops

Adding granite countertops to your kitchen or vanity tops to your bathroom are quick fire ways to add massive value to your home. And this doesn’t have to be any major undertaking, especially when working with experts at Affordable Surface Products. Many customers find granite countertops look breathtaking and are super durable too. Experts say adding granite countertops can add at least 10% to the re-sale value of your home.

Add a granite island

A granite island is a stunning centerpiece for any kitchen and another great way where a little granite can make big changes to the value to your home. A granite island offers more room for kitchen, more elbow space.

Build a granite fireplace

A granite or stone fireplace is gorgeous, rustic and really lifts a living room, bedroom or den. Create this homey feeling in your home and add instant re-sale value too.

Call us at (336) 375-5672 anytime to discuss your ideas on some small granite projects for your home!

Granite has a reputation for being expensive and out of reach for most homeowners. While this may have been true at one time, granite is much more affordable than ever before. Drastic improvements in technology have made the quarrying and fabrication of natural stone much more economical than in the past.

There are a lot of materials available when choosing new countertops for your kitchen or bathrooms. Natural stone, wood, laminate, solid surface, stainless steel and engineered stone are among the most popular choices. You may be surprised to find out that granite is not the most expensive choice. In fact, there are granite countertops available that will end up being less expensive than some synthetic choices.

Granite countertops vary in price according to the color and size you choose. Details such as finish and edge selection will also affect the price. Affordable Surface Products will give you a firm estimate so you know exactly how much your new countertops will cost without any surprises.

When you choose a natural stone, like granite, you are getting a highly durable, long-lasting material that will stay beautiful for many years to come. Other materials do not have the same longevity that you find with stone. This feature is one reason that homeowners choose to invest in stone rather than a less expensive, less durable material. Granite countertops are a good investment that will add value to your home.

If you are curious about how much granite countertops will cost, contact Affordable Surface Products in Greensboro, NC for more information. We provide high quality, affordable stone products for homes in High Point, Winston Salem, Burlington, Kernersville and the entire Piedmont Triad.

Granite is one of the most durable and beautiful materials for countertops. It is no wonder that it has become the premier choice for homeowners who want an upscale and elegant kitchen or bathroom. Granite is an investment in your home and should be properly maintained. Sealing your surface will ensure that it stays in top condition for many years to come.

Granite is a naturally porous stone so you will want to have it sealed when installed and resealed when needed. Sealants block liquids from seeping into the stone and help it resist dirt and stains. Different pieces of granite have different porosities. Some countertops will need to be sealed more often than others.

To determine if it time to reseal your granite countertop, dribble some water on the surface. If it beads up, your sealant is in good shape. If it soaks into the granite, it is time to apply a high quality sealant. Affordable Surface Products assists our customers in properly sealing their countertops for maximum protection.

Don’t put off sealing your countertops. Even a small spill can cause damage to your beautiful surface. Keeping your granite properly maintained will allow it to look beautiful for many years to come. Sealants are one of the best ways to ensure that your granite countertops will remain strong and beautiful, no matter how much use they receive.

Affordable Surface Products in Greensboro, NC is the area’s leading fabricator of granite countertops for the kitchen and bathroom. Visit our showroom at 100 Bonita Drive or contact us for a free quote. We are a short drive from High Point, Winston Salem, Kernersville and Burlington.

No matter what size your kitchen or bathroom, granite countertops can transform the whole look of the room. With so many beautiful colors to choose from, granite is an ideal choice for any type of décor. Homeowners are sure to find custom countertops that will enhance their style and compliment any color palette.

A large part of choosing a stone color is personal preference. Individuals are typically drawn to colors that they find pleasing and beautiful. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to selecting stone for your countertops. Most fabricators will encourage you to choose your slab in person as each piece has its own unique characteristics and colors. Picking out a color for your granite slab is not something you want to do online or in a catalog.

Granite is a highly durable stone so your countertop should last for many years to come. Purchasing and installing a granite countertop is a true investment in your home. Because of the longevity of the stone, you will want to be sure that you choose a color that you can live with for many years. While colors like black or green may seem fun and interesting, you may tire of these colors over time. This is why homeowners often choose more neutral colors like brown, tan, or grey. Plus, neutral colors tend to be more popular when it comes time to sell your home.

Take some time to look at home design magazines or displays that your granite fabricator may have. Often, these images will give you an idea of what you like or do not like. Study the full range of colors available so that you know what your options are. Keep in mind that the colors you see online may look very different in person.

You will want to choose a color that will compliment your cabinets and other features of your kitchen. One of the best ways to determine the ideal color for your home is to take home sample pieces from your stone retailer. Placing theses samples at various spots around the room can help you visualize how the slab will look. You will want to select a color that will blend well with every aspect of the room.

The amount of light in your room may also influence what color you choose for your countertops. If your room is dark or receives very little natural light, you will want to choose a light stone to brighten up the space. Some individuals prefer to have a noticeable contrast of colors in their room. For example, if you have very light cabinetry and flooring, a dark, dramatic countertop can really make a big impact on the look and feel of the room.

One design element that can really make your kitchen look upscale is to juxtapose a light kitchen island countertop with darker counters surrounding it. Mixing and matching your stones creates a unique and interesting appearance that will make your whole room look and feel luxurious and sophisticated.

No matter what color stone you choose, you can be sure that when you install granite countertops, you are getting a high quality, beautiful product that will last for many years to come. Find a granite fabricator in your area who can help you select a stone color that will enhance your room and compliment the existing structures in your kitchen.

Let the design experts at Affordable Surface Products in Greensboro, NC help you find the granite countertops that will enhance your kitchen and upgrade your home. Contact us or come by our showroom at 100 Bonita Drive to see our full selection of granite.

Granite countertops can totally transform the look and feel of your kitchen. The strength, durability, and beauty of granite make it an ideal choice for individuals who want to create an upscale, sophisticated feel to their kitchen. When properly installed and maintained, granite will remain in top condition for many years to come. Listed below are five reasons why granite is the ideal choice for kitchen countertops.

1. Add Value to Your Home: Remodeling a kitchen is a good investment in your home. Granite countertops give the entire room an upscale, high-end look that homebuyers will appreciate. Granite is classic and timeless. It will never go out of style.
2. Upscale Product: With granite countertops, your entire kitchen looks richer and more elegant. Your friends and family will immediately notice the luxurious feel and richness of the stone. Granite is available in a variety of colors and styles that blend with any décor.
3. Durable: Granite is the most durable and easy to maintain of all natural stone products. This makes it an ideal surface for food preparation or any other task you perform in your kitchen.
4. Sanitary: This natural stone is mildew and mold resistant. Granite is a sanitary surface that is safe for food preparation and all of the activities that take place in the kitchen.
5. Affordable: Granite is much more affordable than you may realize. In fact, it can be less expensive than some synthetic products. The team at Affordable Surface Products will work with you to find granite that meets your budget and surpasses your expectations.

Whether you prefer granite countertops for your bathroom or kitchen, Affordable Surface Products of Greensboro, NC delivers high quality and affordable stones to customers across Winston Salem, High Point, Kernersville, and the entire Piedmont Triad. Visit our showroom at 100 Bonita Drive or contact us for a free quote.

Whether you are considering a complete renovation or simply want to update a few features in your kitchen, replacing your countertops can have a big impact on the overall appearance of your room. Smart homeowners know that choosing granite countertops over synthetic materials will add value to their home and provide a durable and beautiful workspace for the entire family to enjoy.

When choosing new countertops for your home, you may be surprised at all of the choices available. Man-made materials, like laminate, are popular because of their affordability and easy installation. While many of these products are made to resemble granite or other natural stones, they do not have the depth or richness of color that is found in a natural material. Synthetic materials can scratch and scorch if not properly cared for. They do not offer the longevity that you find with a stone product.

Granite is a highly durable natural stone that is quarried from deep in the earth. It is very heat resistant and will not chip or crack easily. Once it properly sealed, it will resist stains and discoloration with proper care. Granite comes in a variety of rich shades that include veining, patterning, and specks of color that reflect in the sunlight and look beautiful from every angle. Because it is a natural product, each slab has its own unique characteristics that add an undeniable sophistication to any kitchen.

One reason that homeowners may be tempted to choose laminate to replace their countertops is the fact that this material is typically less expensive than granite and other stones. Homeowners who want to save some money on their remodeling project may be tempted to choose an inferior product because the initial cost is less. What they do not realize is that paying a little more for granite will be an investment in their home that will add style and value to their kitchen. Plus, some synthetic materials like Corian and quartz based products can actually cost more than granite. Take time to comparison shop. You may be surprised at how affordable granite can be.

Potential buyers will appreciate the addition of granite countertops. They understand that with a little maintenance and routine care, these countertops will stay beautiful for many years to come. In fact, they may last for the lifetime of the home. Synthetic materials typically need to be replaced within a few years because they are not as durable as granite. When you remodel your kitchen with granite, you are making a choice that will add value to your home. A well-designed, modern kitchen will generally result in a higher resale value when it comes time to sell.

Because granite is cut into slabs, installation requires specialized skills and tools that most individuals do not have. This is why you need to have your granite countertops professionally installed by a knowledgeable installation expert who is experienced and well trained. Once your granite slab is properly in place, it will remain beautiful and secure for years to come. If a crack or chip should occur, there are stone specialists who can repair the surface so that the damage is virtually unnoticeable.

Granite countertops are an effective way to update and beautify your kitchen. While the initial cost may be more than some inferior alternatives, advances in technology have made the quarrying and fabrication of granite more affordable than ever. Speak with a stone specialist in your area for more information about the many benefits of granite.

Affordable Surface Products is the area’s premier source for granite countertops. Visit our showroom at 100 Bonita Drive in Greensboro, NC or contact us for a free quote!

One of the most important features in your kitchen is the countertop. There are many different materials to choose from when replacing worn out or damages countertops.  Granite offers unique characteristics that have made it a premier choice among homeowners who want to update their kitchen.

Many people will admit that they love the look of granite but believe that it is out of their price range.  While granite may have only been attainable for the rich and wealthy in the past, it has become much more affordable over the years. With many more producers around the world and improvements in quarrying and fabrication, granite has become an option for the average homeowner. Some variables that may affect the cost of your countertops include stone color, edge profile, and the size and shape of your kitchen.

With the installation of granite, you are able to instantly improve the value in your home. Because of the durability of granite, you know that your kitchen countertop will last for many years to come. Potential buyers not only appreciate the beauty and sophistication that granite adds to a room, they will benefit from its longevity as well. It will outlast any other synthetic material with very little maintenance required. Because it does not need to be replaced as often as a synthetic material, it is well worth the investment.

Granite is extremely easy to integrate into your kitchen because it is available in a wide range of styles and colors. It has a depth to it that you simply cannot replicate in man-made materials. With veining and swirling of colors, granite is truly elegant and beautiful. No two pieces are the same.  This is why you should pick out your granite slab in person.  That way, you are sure to get exactly what you need and want to complete the look of your kitchen.

Homeowners love the easy cleanup and maintenance with a granite countertop. Most of the time, spills can be wiped up with warm, soapy water. There are cleaners available as well that are specially formulated to clean without damaging your stone. Naturally sanitary, granite will not harbor mold or bacteria that can make your family sick.

One aspect of granite that homeowners particularly appreciate is that they can prepare their food directly on the countertop without worry of damaging the surface. As one of the strongest materials on earth, it is virtually impossible to scratch granite. Plus, granite is highly heat-resistant which means you can place a hot pot or pan on the countertop without damage.

When choosing a granite countertop, be sure to visit a few showrooms in your area. Find a provider who allows you to hand select and personally approve all materials being used. Be sure that you are working with an experienced installation expert. Ask about warranties or guarantees that they may offer on their products and services. Take time and do you research. Granite is a big investment in your home that will last for many years to come.

Affordable Surface Products sells and installs high quality and beautiful granite slabs for kitchen countertops. Our showroom, located in Greensboro, NC is only a short drive from High Point, Winston Salem, Burlington and Kernersville.