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.

How exciting!  You’re using granite for your next remodeling project.  You won’t regret it.  Granite is a superior remodeling product offering durability and elegance.  You may struggle however with deciding which color granite to use, mainly because there are a surprising number of options. We here at Affordable Surface Products for instance offer the following colors: Bain Brooke Brown, New Caledonia, Santa Cecelia, Ming gold and white pearl.  Granite falls under six color palettes which are black, azul, white, gold and copper, green and rose. You can click here to see the full range and our blog offers some suggestions to help you select the right color granite.

Light versus dark

First, expert suggests choosing light versus dark granite.  Each will offer a different look and feel.  If your kitchen is dark, you may want lighter granite to offer a stark contrast, or, you may want to keep everything in the darker tones.

Black can make an area look smaller

Black granite is really popular because it offers a stunning, dramatic countertop to your kitchen or bathroom.  However, experts say black countertops will make your area look smaller, so keep this in mind if your kitchen is a relatively small space.

Lighter granite makes an area look more spacious

Adding lighter colored granite countertops to your kitchen will open up the kitchen, making it look more roomy and spacious.

Find granite that contrasts your cabinets and hardware

Another tip from the experts is choosing granite that offers a color contrast to your cabinets, refrigerator and microwave.

Find a color that would appeal to others

We suggest this only because granite countertops add so much to the resale value of your home.  Therefore, choose a color that may appeal to others.

Keep us in mind when planning your next granite project.  We would love to work with you!  Call us at 336-375-5672 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 countertops can add luxury to your bathroom as well as provide practical surfaces. Here are some cool ideas to enhance your bathroom with countertops made of granite.

• A step countertop design to allow for items to be placed on a raised platform can free up the area directly around the sink, and provide a unique display for ease of access.
• Countertops cut with curved corners add elegance and can soften the look that harsh, geometric angles can cause.
• Granite is available in various shades. Choosing a lighter color variation can brighten and even give the illusion of openness to small bathrooms, while darker colors can add richness.
• Paring your granite countertop with complementary granite tiling of a customized shower provides a long lasting luxurious environment, requiring no more maintenance than any well cared for bathroom design.
• Designing your granite countertop to accommodate a raised basin sink as opposed to the traditional inset can offer extra space for practical purposes while also showcasing the beauty of the countertops.

Granite is the most durable substance for countertop construction. It is resistant to heat damage from curling irons accidentally left on, unlikely to stain due to spilled hygiene products such as perfume oils and aftershave, and impervious to chipping or scratching due to accidental dropping of items such as curling irons or electric shavers.

There are virtually no limits to how it can be cut for a customized look that is guaranteed to be unique for your bathroom. The natural variations of color textures in granite make every countertop a one of a kind piece work of art that is more than simply utilitarian. Why not have the best of both beauty and practicality?

Contact Affordable Surface Products for a variety of granite selections from standard to exotic options for your bathroom. We service Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, and the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina.

When it comes to adding value to your home there are very few investments as beneficial as granite countertops. Granite countertops, especially those installed in the kitchen can be the make it or break it factor for buying or selling any home.

1. When properly sealed and maintained, granite countertops are virtually scratch, stain, and chip resistant. No other material can make that boast save diamond.
2. Maintenance is relatively simple, usually not requiring more than hot water and a soft cloth, and periodic re-sealing, which tends to be about once a year. Since no special cleaning agents are necessary to clean off stubborn stains, this can save you money.
3. Granite is durable enough to allow food prep such as cutting vegetables directly on its surface. Cutting boards can harbor bacteria over time as they accumulate grooves and indentions from repeated use. This does not happen with granite as most knives are not made of adequate tensile strength to do any damage to the stone.
4. The cool stone surface is ideal for prepping and kneading dough for any and all baking projects. This can add joy to the holiday season if you enjoy baking.
5. It is heat resistant, meaning that if you neglect to use a heat pad when placing hot pans directly on its surface you need not worry about burn damage. This also applies to leaving a curling iron on the counter in the bathroom should the countertops there be made of granite as well.
6. Granite countertops tend to add a minimum re-sale value of ten percent to your home, and can add around twenty-five percent of the retail value to the appraisal value of your home. While there are no guarantees on specific numbers, it is clear that there is a marked increase, and never a decrease on a well-installed countertop.
7. Because of the way granite forms naturally with its variations of colors, vein variations, and added flecks no two countertops are alike, making each one distinctive and unique. How many other features of a home provide practical use while also coming close to being a work of art?
8. The cost-effectiveness of granite is seen in the installation cost versus the longevity of the stone. With easy maintenance it will outlast most other features of your home. It will not degrade, or need replacing due to aging.
9. Granite countertops add a sense of elegance to any kitchen or bathroom with their natural stone appeal and custom edging. The rich tones ranging from earthy to some more colorful variations can complement a wide range of decorating styles, and provide the perfect accent or focus depending on preference.

10.  Granite slabs can be cut to allow customization with sink and faucet designs for a one of a kind look, giving your home unique value. It is also possible to have special cuts made to hold soap dispenses for added refinement.

We service Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, and the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina.

Contact us or call Affordable Surface Products at (336) 375-5672 for a variety of granite selections from standard to exotic options for your home.

Caring for granite countertops is much like caring for anything else–with time and attention you can maintain the luxurious look of your granite without much difficulty. Routine daily upkeep can address most issues before they develop into major problems.

Be a self-cleaning cook. Wipe up drips and spills immediately, don’t give them time to set, especially cooking oil of any kind as it may stain otherwise. Wine, coffee, fruit juices and sodas tend to be corrosive on stone surfaces due to their acidic compounds; however, these items generally won’t harm granite, but there’s no need to take chances.

A soft touch is all it needs. For most general cleaning purposes hot water and a sponge or soft cloth such as microfiber is enough. Specially formulated stone cleaners are recommended over dish soap for any major cleanings. Avoid using generic cleaners such as bleach, glass cleaner, or other general use cleaners made with harsh acids and alkalis as they degrade the sealer of your granite. Also avoid using any cleaners with abrasives as they can dull your finish.

Pamper the tough stuff. Just because granite is strong enough to withstand the heat from a pot removed from the stove doesn’t mean that it isn’t a good practice to use trivets and hot pads. The same goes for using cutting boards. Granite is tough enough to endure the punishment, but heavy use regularly in the same spot can eventually result in surface damage over time—though it is worth noting that this kind of damage might result only after quite a bit of time for the stone itself if there is an epoxy resin sealing the stone, that is what will be ruined.

Give it a new coat. When water splashed on the surface does not bead up, it is time to re-seal the countertop. Granite is naturally porous, and it is only the added sealer that keeps your countertop water resistant and looking spectacular. All granite comes with manufacturer recommendations for how often to re-seal. It is best to follow the guidelines provided than wait for visible signs of wear.

Call in the professionals. Should any cracks or chips occur, consult with a professional. They can determine if buffing, sealing, or replacement is necessary.

Contact us or call us at 336-375-5672 for a variety of granite selections from standard to exotic options to create your ideal kitchen countertops. We service Greensboro, High Point, Winston Salem, and the Piedmont Triad area of North Carolina.

Choosing the Look

Granite countertops provide a durable, attractive element to any kitchen or bathroom with the varying natural color combinations of the stone. Due to these naturally occurring variations it is difficult to say exactly what the finished product will look like, which is why, when possible, you should view a picture of a finished product with the type of granite you are interested in to get a better idea how it will look in your home. Because granite is a naturally occurring stone the color combinations are earthy, ranging the gray scale with some greens, blues, purples, browns, and golds—some will brighten and some may darken the ambiance of the room in which they are placed.

Measure Twice, Cut Once

Proper measuring is essential as cutting of the stone is exact to the specifications and dimensions of the space it will occupy. It is also important that a template be made to account for any appliances that may require a cutout for seamless incorporation into the overall look, such as sinks, faucets, and cooking ranges. When measuring for cut outs it is good to keep in mind whether these will be raised, under mounted, or some other style that will have an effect the design, and have the appliance on hand when taking measurements and making the template.

Leveled to Stay

Whether installing granite countertops in a newly constructed room or a remodeling of the old one preparing the site is vital. Ensure that the entire area for the granite’s placement is flat and even. In some cases the stone can be affixed through permanent bonding to existing countertops. However, if this is not ideal make sure that the decking to which the granite will be affixed is not particleboard or any other overly absorbent material. An epoxy or similar liquid adhesive is typically used to bond the stone to the top of the cabinets to form your countertop. Any seams should be near invisible with the proper blending of color in the epoxy used to match the color of the stone.

Affordable Surface Products in Greensboro provides expert installation services with all granite countertop purchases. Visit our showroom at 100 Bonita Drive or contact us for a free quote! We are worth the drive from High Point, Winston Salem and Kernersville.

Many homeowners put a lot of effort into creating an appealing and elegant kitchen that is much more than a functional place to prepare food and eat. One way that homeowners are upgrading their kitchens is with the addition of granite countertops. Because granite is so versatile and beautiful, it improves the overall aesthetics of the room and becomes an important design element in your kitchen.

Granite is easy to incorporate into your current décor because it is available in such a wide range of colors. Some homeowners choose neutral browns or gold while others prefer the more dramatic look of darker colors. No matter what your style or preference, you can find a granite countertop that will look appealing and compliment your existing appliances, flooring and cabinetry.

Keep in mind that granite is known for its longevity. This means that with very little maintenance, your granite countertops should last for the life of your home. Therefore, you will want to choose a color that you find pleasing and will not get tired of. It is important to think about what colors will appeal to most people so that when it comes time to resell your home, the countertops will be a positive selling point.

Granite countertops are incredibly versatile, resilient, and will give you many years of enjoyment. Visit Affordable Surface Products in Greensboro, NC to see a large selection of granite slabs that will enhance the beauty and design of your kitchen. Get a free quote today!

In the past few decades, homeowners have discovered the many advantages of using sustainable building materials in home construction. Natural stone, like granite and marble, is an excellent choice when attempting to “green” your home. It is an environmentally friendly product that is affordable, safe and durable.

There has been a growing movement to reduce our waste and increase the sustainability of the materials we use in our homes. One way to do this is to choose building materials that are earth-friendly. Stone’s natural characteristics, including durability, recyclability and ease of maintenance make it an ideal choice for those homeowners who want to incorporate green products in their homes. Stone can be used for countertops, vanities, flooring, tiling and more.

One aspect of stone that makes it an earth-friendly product is the fact that it is found naturally and requires very little energy to become a finished product. While there is some energy consumed for quarrying and processing, it is relatively small when compared with other building materials. We are able to extract stone from the quarry without major blasting operations, protecting the environment and wildlife in that area.

Because stones like granite and marble are so durable, they will last a lifetime with very maintenance. If properly sealed, you can avoid stains that can damage the appearance of the stone. As a result, you have a beautiful countertop surface that continues to look great for many years to come. This type of longevity is good for our environment because it keeps materials out of our already over crowded landfills. Choosing durable and long lasting materials is the smart way to design or remodel your home.

Going green not only refers to the external environment, but the quality of air in your home as well. This is why so many homeowners are turning away from chemical laden materials and installing stone countertops instead. Granite is naturally resistant to mold and mildew, making it an ideal choice for the kitchen. You will have peace of mind knowing that your granite countertop is healthy and not making your family sick. It is safe to use in all areas where food preparation takes place.

As your stone surface ages, it only becomes more beautiful and adds a richness and elegance to your home décor that you simply cannot find with other materials. No harsh chemicals are needed to clean it. You can avoid dangerous cleaners that have high volatile organic compounds (VOC). In fact, all you need is soapy water and soft cloth to clean the surface and bring out the natural shine of the stone.

“Going green” is not an all or nothing proposition. You can make small changes that can have a big impact on your environment, both inside and outside of your home. Replacing your worn out countertops with natural stone is a good way to add sustainable materials to your home. It is a smart choice for the environment and your health. Plus, natural stone is more affordable now than ever. You might be surprised at how easily a granite countertop will fit into your budget.

Affordable Surface Products in Greensboro, NC has a large selection of natural stone countertops, including granite and marble. You can visit our showroom at 100 Bonita Drive or get a free quote today!

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.