22 Aug 2023

Saving Countertops From Common Kitchen Dangers

Kitchen spaces are arguably the most important room of a new home build when attracting home buyers. Prospective homeowners love to see an attractive kitchen designed with functionality in mind. They understand the value of a great flooring choice, modern appliances, well thought out cabinet space, and durable countertops. Once they move in though, the challenge is to maintain the value of the kitchen by properly caring for its’ elements.

Many popular countertop options today got their popularity because, not only were they attractive, but they were fairly easy to care for as well. However, whether the countertop is made out of granite, quartz, marble, butcher block, or laminate, there are certain things that will cause wear and tear on the countertop to occur.

Depending on the countertop material, the kitchen dangers will vary. However, for virtually all countertop options, promptly cleaning up any spills, especially those from dark substances like coffee or wine, will keep the countertop from becoming stained. Also, not all countertops are heat resistant, so a good practice in any kitchen is to place hot pans or dishes on pot holders or trivets instead of directly on the counter surface. Equally important for most countertop options is to only use mild soap and a non-abrasive cloth or sponge to wipe down the surface. On countertop surfaces such as butcher block, it is crucial that kitchen users keep the area sanitized. Using undiluted vinegar is a safer option then traditional kitchen cleaners and disinfectants.

A number of the common kitchen dangers that can damage countertop surfaces can be completely avoided by sealing the countertops, and then resealing them over time when necessary. In today’s market, most kitchen countertop materials are built to last a long time. By taking proper care of them, homeowners can enjoy their functionality for many years to come.

Are you looking to install new countertops? Creative Stone would love to help you find the perfect countertops for your kitchen. Give one of our knowledgeable professionals a call today at our Fayetteville, North Carolina location by dialing (910) 491-1225.

22 Aug 2023

Laminate Flooring Options For Your Home

Laminate flooring is a popular choice for many of today’s homeowners because it is affordable and it is fairly easy to care for. In today’s market, there are quite a few laminate flooring options for homeowners to choose from. Whether you are looking for a more rustic feel or you think you would like a more modern look in laminate flooring, the floor experts at Magnus Anderson in Fayetteville, North Carolina can help you find the right type of laminate flooring for your home.

When it comes to installation options for laminate flooring, the three main types are glued laminate, glueless-click and pre-glued. Of the three options, glued laminate will probably take the most time to install and could be the mostly costly. Pre-glued laminate comes with glue already on the joints that just may need to be moistened before putting together. Glueless-click laminate flooring makes up the majority of all laminate flooring on the market today. These laminate flooring pieces click into place and are easy to install, making them the most popular choice among homeowners.

The texture and style of the laminate flooring you choose will determine the aesthetic of the room or rooms that they are installed in. Popular style choices include laminate flooring that looks like real wood, ceramic tiles and even stone. When it comes to texture, homeowners can choose from laminate flooring that is smooth, embossed or hand scraped. While hand scraped laminate and embossed laminate mimics the feel of real hardwood floors, smooth laminate flooring tends to provide a clean, sleek look.

If you have decided to give laminate flooring a try in your home, Magnus Anderson is here to assist you from beginning to end. Let our knowledgeable professionals help you choose the laminate flooring that will be the perfect match for your living space. With so many options to choose from, we guarantee that you will not be disappointed with the finished product. Come visit us in our showroom at 6253 Raeford Road in Fayetteville, North Carolina or give us a call today at (910) 483-0468.

14 Aug 2023

Don’t Forget to Coordinate those Colors!

When it comes to a kitchen remodel, cabinets and countertops are two of the most important and expensive parts of your kitchen. Whether you are replacing them both or just one at a time, it is a good idea to make sure that the colors complement each other.

Your kitchen countertops and cabinet facing is more or less permanent, and while paint can be re-done, it’s not a task you want to repeat more than you have to. If the colors are not compatible, it can make the space feel harsh, and that is not what you want at the end of a kitchen remodel. Carefully coordinating your colors takes equal parts personal style and inspiration.

When picking out the colors for your kitchen there are two schools of thought, one is to pick out two complementing dominant colors and the other is to use analogous colors. Complementary colors create a vibrant look due to the high contrast. This color scheme must be managed well so it is not jarring. Analogous colors usually match well and create serene and comfortable designs and can be found in nature. With this color scheme you need to be careful not to “muddy” the colors together which will make the overall color of your kitchen muted, shaded, toned down or dirty. A third color should be an accent color that brings the entire room together while giving the room a little character. Avoid using too many different colors by staying within the 3-color plan.

A good idea is to pick your countertops first because they can vary in color, pattern, and style making it hard to match the cabinetry in your kitchen. Picking your countertops first allows you to better match paints, stains, hardware, and specialty finishes. Whether you choose granite, tile, wood, etc., your countertop can be a signature piece in your kitchen.

The kitchen is known as the heart of the house and if you are unsure of your ability to color coordinate such an important room there is no shame in asking for help from a professional. The experts at Fayetteville Granite will be happy to help with a free in-home consultation. Please visit Fayetteville Granite Co. or call 910-483-0468 to learn more.

10 Aug 2023

Why Granite for Outdoor Kitchen Countertops?

Outdoor kitchens have become an important household feature in recent years. Whether you like to entertain large groups of people or just enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, an outdoor kitchen not only extends your family’s living space, but it may also add value to your home. When having the space designed, you will certainly want to include enough counter space for food preparation and serving. Your counters will need to look good, but you will also need to choose a material that can last. They will need to withstand both the elements and the other unique complications that come from having an outdoor kitchen. When making your decision there are several materials to choose from but let’s focus on the most recommended.

Granite is a natural material that holds up well in the elements and is durable enough to withstand all the barbecue recipes, food, drinks, and all of the fun outdoor dining and entertaining. It has the ability to withstand extreme temperature changes, so whether it’s below freezing, or there’s sweltering heat, granite will maintain its integrity. When properly sealed it is resistant to stains, mold, and mildew. It won’t etch, discolor, or lose its shine. Sealing granite countertops is recommended to prevent stains and can be easily done. Furthermore, many varieties of granite are dense enough that you may not need to apply a sealer. So, with normal clean-up, granite countertops will last for years and look great the whole time. This is why granite countertops are the first choice for homeowners with outdoor kitchens. Granite is an eco-friendly material that is built to last.

Not only is granite robust enough to withstand whatever the elements and family get togethers throw at it, but is also simply a beautiful material. Homeowners can choose among a wide range of colors and patterns that make each countertop unique. There are many different design options when it comes to granite, but most include a speckled or flaked pattern.

While many people may recommended granite due to its ease of care and durability, it is not the only material available. To view other materials such as marble or quartz or to get a free estimate visit http://creativeston.wpengine.com/. We have the skill and superior craftsmanship to turn your outdoor kitchen dream into a reality!

25 Jul 2023

Countertop Options For Your New Build

When constructing a new kitchen, there are many features to consider. From appliances to cabinets and flooring, all of the choices made have a big impact on the overall feel and functionality of the room. Countertops are no exception. In many ways, the countertops chosen for a kitchen construction project can make all the difference in the aesthetic of the room. In today’s market, there are many different options in countertop materials that are sure to make any homeowner happy. These options range from traditional choices like laminate and tougher materials like granite and quartz, as well as, fairly newer options like glass countertops, wood countertops or stainless steel countertops. Below are some of the options available to homebuilders.

If you are looking for a more affordable option for your countertops than most, laminate is a great way to go. Not only are laminate countertops friendly to most budgets, but the design possibilities are nearly endless. You can install laminate countertops in unique designs and colors, but also laminate countertops come in material that resembles the look of wood or quartz countertops.

If durability and ease of care are the priority, you cannot beat granite, marble or quartz countertops. The natural material is nearly indestructible and they are very easy to clean and maintain. Nowadays, pattern colors and design are more diverse as well.

Many homebuilders and contractors will choose wood countertops for the kitchen area. Wood countertops offer a rustic feel to most kitchen areas that they are installed in. Wood countertops are great for prepping food for cooking and they withstand high temperatures well. Wood countertops are also not as pricey as granite or quartz may be.

Stainless steel countertops are also great for prepping food, as easy cleanup of the steel material makes it one of the most hygienic options for countertops available to homebuilders.

Glass countertops are a fairly newer trend in kitchen countertops, but homeowners are choosing them for good reason. They are stain resistant and extremely easy to care for, and since they come in many different design options, they can fit into any design plan.

If you are looking for great countertop materials and options on how to install them, Creative Stone would be happy to help you! Come see us at our Creative Stone location in Fayetteville, North Carolina or give us a call today at (910) 491-1225.

24 Jul 2023

Carpet vs. Hardwood Flooring

When remodeling or giving your home a bit of an uplift, there is always that question to ponder: carpeting or hardwood floors? Flooring tends to be one of the biggest decisions that a homeowner can be faced with and although both have their pros and cons, here are a few reasons why carpet triumphs over wood!

 

  1. Carpet provides insulation during the cold months. Think about it. You’re lying warm in your bed on a cold winter morning. The alarm rings for you to get up and get ready for work. You step out of bed and your feet are met with the cold embrace of a freezing floor underfoot. Not ideal? We thought not. With carpet throughout the home, you can enjoy the added benefits of a warm floor in the winter, with insulation that keeps your home warmer in those chilly months.

 

  1. Carpet is less expensive to install than hardwood. Hardwood flooring can average about $9 to $12 per square foot, which may not seem like a lot until you take into account the overall square footage of your home. Carpeting averages between $3 and $5 per square foot, which is a significant difference in cost. If you are hoping to save some money on your remodel, carpet is the way to go.

 

  1. Carpeting is safer for small children and pets. How many times can you recall your child falling down in your home, perhaps bumping their heads, hitting their elbows or knees? With carpeting installed in your home, you can rest assured that if your little one takes a tumble, they will have a cushion to support them.

 

  1. Carpets are safer for those homeowners with allergies and asthma. Because carpet is able to trap dust particles between the tufts, there is less of a worry about aggravated allergy symptoms and less asthma flare ups. The dust can be transported from carpet to vacuum so there is significantly less in the air.

 

  1. Carpets are quieter than hardwood. Have you ever been in someone’s home and they have pets? The hardwood magnifies the sound of the pets claws tapping through the house. When they are installed on multiple story homes, homeowners often complain about the noises overhead from people walking on the floor. With carpeting, the floors are quieter and more insulated which provide for a more quiet space.

 

If you are considering a remodel in your home and want to give carpeting a try, please contact us at Magnus Anderson, where we have the best reputation for flooring solutions in the Fayetteville, NC area. Give us a call at 910-237-6749 or visit us on the web at Magnus Anderson NC!

24 Jul 2023

3 Reasons to Remodel Your Kitchen!

Remodeling your kitchen can be a large task and the reasons to change your kitchen are numerous. Perhaps you’re trying to increase the resale value of your home, or maybe you’re ready to change your dated kitchen for one that better suits your family’s lifestyle. Everyone has their own reason but here are just four you may want to consider.

Value: Remodeling your kitchen can have a large impact on the value of your home when seeking to sell. A freshly remodeled and attractive kitchen will appeal to potential buyers more than an outdated kitchen. Realtors have known this fact for years. That’s one reason why a remodeled kitchen is frequently cited as a home’s major feature in a real estate ad.

Lifestyle: Perhaps your kitchen lacks a breakfast bar, and you want to enjoy coffee or grab a quick meal without going to the dining room table. Maybe the kitchen that you once loved suddenly feels a bit stuffy since you have had children and you need to make it larger. Maybe you are living with someone who is disabled, and you need to make the kitchen more convenient and accessible for them. Whatever the reason, a key motivation to remodel your kitchen is to arrange the room to best suit your needs.

Efficiency: Are your current appliances outdated? If so, they could be costing you more money than you know in monthly utility bills. Energy efficient appliances will cut the electric bill, and put less strain on the environment. You also can consider opening up your kitchen to expose it to more natural light, such as skylights, which will reduce the need for artificial lighting.

Deterioration: The kitchen can also just be falling apart: broken tiles, peeling laminate, chipped countertops, broken or faded cabinets and obsolete appliances do not contribute to bringing a family together or increase the value of your home. No matter how much love and attention you give your kitchen it’s impossible to hide. The deteriorated kitchen simply needs a remodel.

If you’re interested in remodeling your kitchen trust in Fayetteville Granite to provide you the quality and care you’re searching for! From countertops, to cabinets, we can be your one stop shop for your remodeling needs. Call us today at 910-483-0468 visit us at Creative Stone to learn more!

19 Jul 2023

How To Care For Your Laminate Flooring

If you are a homeowner then you know that there are endless types of flooring options, and likely your home has flooring made of at least two or three different flooring choices. You may have plush carpet in your bedroom areas, ceramic tile in your hallways or foyer area, hardwood floors in your living and dining areas, and perhaps laminate flooring in your kitchen and bathrooms. Each type of flooring requires a different maintenance plan based on the materials the floor is made of.

Here are a few suggestions on how to care for your laminate flooring:

  • If a liquid substance is spilled on your laminate flooring, clean it up as soon as possible. Liquids can seep into the seams of laminate flooring, and over time this can ruin your floors.
  • Do not over soak the flooring when you are cleaning it. The image of a bucket of soapy water and a wet mop comes to mind. When you clean laminate flooring, you can use hot water and soap but do not soak the floor. Get it wet enough to clean it and no more.
  • Avoid using harsh acidic cleaners on your laminate flooring because they can strip the protective seal on the laminate flooring.
  • Anything remotely sharp or extremely heavy can leave small holes or dents in the laminate flooring. For this reason, keep pet nails trimmed, try to avoid wearing high heels on the flooring surface and use furniture pads under big pieces of furniture.
  • Floor cleaners that give floors a shiny look, pine scented cleaners, too much vinegar – all of these are bad for laminate flooring.
  • Sweep your laminate floors often.

Many homeowners choose laminate flooring because of its’ affordability and its’ ease of care. You can ensure that your laminate flooring lasts a long time by following the simple tips above. If you are looking for a great laminate flooring option for your home, Magnus Anderson would love to help! Come see us at our Fayetteville, North Carolina location or give us a call at (910) 483-0468 and let our experts assist you in picking out your perfect floor!

19 Jul 2023

Caring For Your Kitchen Cabinets

If you were to ask the average homeowner how often they clean their kitchen cabinets, the answer would probably be “not that often”. When it comes to caring for the features of our kitchens, cabinets tend to rank lower on the list. Cabinets are easy to ignore. They do not have all of the parts of kitchen appliances, or the care instruction that can come with countertops, and they usually do not see as much wear and tear as the kitchen floor. However, cabinets do need to be cared for from time to time, and Fayetteville Granite has some ideas to share on how to do it.

  • Just like with the floor or countertops in a kitchen, when something is spilled inside a cabinet or splattered on the outside of a cabinet, clean it up immediately. Do not allow food or drink to become stuck on the cabinets.
  • Make periodic cleaning of the outside of the cabinets a habit. Truth be told, grime can, and does, accumulate on the exterior of cabinets after an extended time. Every few months, lightly clean them using the proper instructions for cleaning them according to the material they are made of.
  • Do not abandon the interior of the cabinets. Many homeowners will line their shelves with some type of shelf paper material to prevent food spillage from damaging the surface. That is a great idea, but even if you do, it is a good idea at least once a year to clean out the cabinets. Get rid of old food or contents that you no longer need, and wipe the shelves down.

Like most all kitchen features, the longevity of your kitchen cabinets depends on the amount of care you take. If you keep them clean by wiping the exterior of the cabinets so that food and dust do not collect on them, and if you organize and clean the interior periodically, your kitchen cabinets should last a long time. If you are looking for new cabinets for your home, Fayetteville Granite wants to help! Give us a call at our Fayetteville, North Carolina location today at (910) 483-0468.

16 Jul 2023

Advantages of Laminate Floors

With the damage of Hurricane Matthew still looming over the city, many people are considering remodeling and repairing their homes. One of the number one and most costly repairs includes damage to your flooring, which can seem like a nightmare after you receive an initial estimate.

For this reason, you should consider installing laminate flooring in your home. With Creative Stone, there are many pros to consider when investing in laminate flooring. Here are some of the reasons why this flooring may be best for you.

Versatile Designs: Do you love the look of hardwood flooring in the home? What about natural stone and marble? Today, the process of production for laminate floors can offer a variety of different looks for your home to fit your specific needs.

Easy Clean-up: Ever consider how expensive it becomes to clean a carpet after your two-year-old spills purple grape juice in the middle of the living room floor? Or how time consuming it becomes to maintain the overall shine in your natural hardwood? With laminate floors, the clean-up process can be a breeze. The wear layer of the flooring provides a protective seal that allows for protection from most stains and spills.

Mold and Mildew: Like the issues with hurricane Matthew, there were many NC residents who had to tear out their flooring, or either move due to the threat of growing mold after the high waters covered the insides of their homes. Laminate is a natural resistant to mold, leaving you worry free and unconsciously more healthy.

Convenience: While hardwood and carpet can not only be costly, but also time consuming, laminate flooring can be installed, depending on the size of the room, in as little as a day and a half.

Cost: The biggest pro to consider is definitely cost. While installing a new hardwood floor can range between hundreds, to thousands of dollars, laminate flooring can be as little as .25 cent per plank.

With various choices in flooring, considering laminate could be a very beneficial choice! If you’re considering an install of laminate flooring in your home, please give us a call at (910) 491-1225 or visit us online at http://creativeston.wpengine.com/!