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When upgrading your kitchen or bathroom surfaces, selecting the ideal material requires a balance of aesthetics and performance. Porcelain countertops have emerged as a premier choice across the Gulf Coast, offering an exceptional blend of durability, modern design, and long-term value.

As a leading choice for homeowners in Pensacola, Pace, and Fort Walton Beach, porcelain provides a sophisticated surface that stands up to daily wear. Manufactured from high-quality clay and minerals fired at extreme temperatures, these non-porous surfaces offer excellent resistance to heat, scratches, and staining without requiring complex maintenance.

What Are Porcelain Countertops?

Porcelain countertops are highly durable, non-porous surfaces engineered from a premium blend of clay, sand, and mineral products. The material is fired in a kiln at extreme temperatures ranging from 2,200°F to 2,650°F. This rigorous manufacturing process yields an incredibly hard surface designed to mimic high-end natural stones, such as marble, while offering superior structural resilience.

Unlike traditional natural stones, porcelain is entirely non-porous and ultra-hygienic. It does not absorb liquids, meaning it will not harbor bacteria or suffer from acid etching. This makes it an outstanding surface choice for high-traffic kitchens, luxurious bathrooms, and versatile indoor or outdoor residential applications.

Pros and Cons of Porcelain Countertops

Pros

Complete Heat Resistance: Porcelain can withstand direct contact with hot pots and pans from the stovetop or oven without sustaining thermal damage.

Stain & Chemical Resilience: Being non-porous, the surface will not stain from oils, pigmented liquids, or household acids like lemon juice, vinegar, or wine.

UV & Climate Stability: Its inherent UV light resistance prevents fading, and its ability to withstand freeze/thaw cycles makes it ideal for both interior and exterior applications.

Low Maintenance: Requires no regular sealing or specialized chemical sealers; simple routine cleaning keeps the surface pristine.

Cons 

EImpact Sensitivity: While highly scratch-resistant, porcelain can be damaged or cracked by severe blunt force, such as dropping a heavy cast-iron skillet.

Surface-Deep Patterns: Unlike quartz or natural stone, the patterns on porcelain are only surface-deep. The base color will be slightly visible along mitered edges.

Complex Fabrication: Because slabs are typically 12mm thick, the edges must be professionally mitered. This carries a higher risk of minor edge-chipping during fabrication, which our technicians fill to ensure a secure, visible finish.

Porcelain vs Granite Countertops

Granite is a classic choice, but how does it compare to porcelain?

While first-quality 3cm granite remains a timeless, highly heat-resistant choice extracted from global mines, it requires annual sealing to maintain its stain resistance. Porcelain eliminates the need for ongoing chemical treatments while providing a lighter, modern alternative with complete imperviousness to household acids

Why Homeowners Are Choosing Porcelain Countertops

Porcelain vs Quartz Countertops

Quartz is also popular and made from engineered stone. Here is a quick comparison:

Engineered quartz (comprising roughly 90–93% natural quartz crystals bound with resins) offers fantastic stain resistance and a uniform look, but it can scorch under extreme heat. Porcelain outperforms quartz in thermal endurance, allowing you to place hot cookware directly on the surface without the risk of discoloration. Additionally, quartz is restricted to indoor environments, whereas porcelain thrives in outdoor settings

Long-Term Maintenance and Care

Porcelain’s structural integrity makes it remarkably easy to preserve over decades of daily use. To protect your investment and maintain its premium finish, follow these professional care guidelines:

Cutting Surfaces: Although porcelain is highly resistant to everyday scratches, surface scratches may occur with normal wear and tear. We strictly recommend always utilizing a cutting board to preserve your knives and prevent direct surface friction..

Routine Cleaning: Avoid harsh chemicals containing bleach, ammonia, or heavy acids. Simply use a gentle cleanser, such as warm water mixed with mild dish soap, and wipe down with a soft microfiber cloth.

Abrasive Protection: Never use abrasive scouring pads, green 3M Scotch Brite pads, or steel wool, as these can create dull spots on the polished finish over time.

Long Lasting

They can last 20 years or more. They do not crack or lose their shine easily. This makes them a smart choice for your home.

These features make porcelain a smart choice for busy kitchens and bathrooms.

Streamlined Fabrication & Installation Process

Achieving a premium, seamless aesthetic with porcelain requires flawless technical execution. Superior Granite handles your entire project from start to finish utilizing state-of-the-art machinery and over 20 years of local expertise.

To ensure your installation window goes perfectly, please keep our standard pre-template and pre-install requirements in mind:

Pre-Template Checklist

• Decision Authority: A representative with full design and decision authority must be present during your templating appointment to answer technical layout questions.
• Site Preparation: All structural cabinets must be completely set and level. Farmhouse or apronfront sinks must be fully installed prior to our team’s arrival.
• Appliance Specifications: Provide the exact model numbers for your sink, faucet, cooktop, and range to your sales associate prior to the appointment.

Installation Day Prep

• Clearing the Area: Please clear off all existing countertops, remove all drawers, and completely empty the items beneath sink and cooktop bases.
• Plumbing Timeline: To allow undermount sinks to cure flawlessly, please wait a minimum of 48 hours following our installation before scheduling a plumber to connect the fixtures.

Design Versatility and Aesthetic Options

Porcelain offers unparalleled design flexibility for modern architectural styles. Because it is a manufactured material, it can be engineered to flawlessly mimic the intricate veining of luxury marble, the organic textures of granite, or even industrial concrete finishes. Homeowners can select from polished or matte finishes to seamlessly complement their design vision.

However, because the patterns are only surface-deep, the solid base color will be slightly visible along the required mitered edges—a characteristic feature you can preview firsthand at any of our local showrooms

Debunking Common Porcelain Myths

To make an informed investment, it is important to separate facts from common misconceptions:

• Myth: Porcelain is fragile and cracks easily. > * Reality: Once installed, porcelain is incredibly dense and highly resistant to scratching, cracking, and everyday wear. It is structurally sound enough to withstand any harsh climate, including heavy freeze/thaw cycles.
• Myth: Design and color options are limited. > * Reality: Porcelain slabs are available in a vast selection of colors, patterns, and movements, making it highly adaptable to both indoor kitchens and outdoor living spaces.
• Myth: It requires specialized, expensive maintenance. > * Reality: Porcelain is naturally non-porous and ultra-hygienic. It requires zero annual sealing and can be safely maintained with simple, non-abrasive household cleaners.

Selecting the Right Material for Your Home

Choosing the ideal surface involves evaluating how your household utilizes the space. Consider these professional benchmarks when deciding between porcelain, quartz, or natural stone:

Environmental Integration: Consider where the stone will be installed. Superior Granite offers UV-resistant materials like porcelain and granite that are highly durable and resilient enough to withstand exterior elements, whereas quartz surfaces are strictly limited to indoor applications.

Thermal Performance: If your kitchen experiences heavy cooking demands, prioritize materials like porcelain or first-quality granite, both of which allow you to place hot cookware directly on the surface without a trivet. In contrast, engineered quartz can scorch under extreme heat, and softer stones like calcite or marble always require thermal protection.

Maintenance Commitments: If you prefer a hands-off approach, porcelain and engineered quartz require no routine sealing. However, if you prefer the unique luxury of natural stones like quartzite, granite, dolomite, or marble, you must factor in a regular sealing schedule (ranging from monthly to semi-annually) to prevent staining and acid etching.

Conclusion

Porcelain countertops stand out as an exceptional choice for modern homeowners seeking an uncompromising combination of high luxury, minimal maintenance, and extreme durability.

As a family-owned business serving the Gulf Coast since 2005, Superior Granite offers one of the largest selections of premium first-quality materials in the region. Whether you are remodeling an indoor kitchen or planning an expansive outdoor patio, our dedicated staff is ready to assist you in designing the space of your dreams.

Visit a Superior Granite Showroom in Pensacola, Pace, or Fort Walton Beach today to browse our extensive inventory in person, or reach out online to schedule an expert consultation.

FAQs

1. Are porcelain countertops a high-value investment?

While porcelain carries a mid-to-high price tier due to the specialized, labor-intensive fabrication and mitered edging required for 12mm slabs, its exceptional lifespan and low maintenance provide outstanding long-term value for your home.

2. What is the best way to clean and care for porcelain surfaces?

Daily care is simple: clean the surface with a gentle cleanser, such as warm soapy water, and a soft microfiber cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals containing bleach or ammonia, and never use abrasive scrubbing pads, which can dull the finish over time.

3. How does porcelain perform compared to natural granite?

Porcelain is completely non-porous, meaning it will not absorb liquids, harbor bacteria, or require annual sealing like natural granite. However, 3cm granite offers a solid, through-body natural pattern and higher resistance to severe blunt-force impacts.

4. Can porcelain countertops chip or crack?

While porcelain is highly scratch-resistant and durable under normal wear, it can be damaged by severe blunt forces, such as dropping heavy iron cookware directly onto the surface. Additionally, minor chips that may potentially occur along the mitered edges during the technical fabrication process are meticulously filled by our installation teams.

5. Where can I view porcelain countertop slabs in the Gulf Coast area?

You can view our premium inventory in person by visiting any of the three Superior Granite showrooms located in Pensacola, Pace, and Fort Walton Beach.

The post Porcelain Countertops: Pros and Cons You Must Know appeared first on Superior Granite.

When comparing quartz vs marble countertops, quartz is generally the better choice for most homeowners due to its superior durability, lower maintenance, and affordability, while marble is ideal for those seeking a luxurious, high-end look in low-traffic areas.

Understanding Quartz vs Marble

Before choosing between a Quartz Marble Countertop, it’s important to know the difference. Quartz is engineered stone made from natural quartz and resin. Marble is a metamorphic rock known for its natural beauty and unique veining.

Design Versatility and Color Options

Quartz vs Marble Countertops offers different visual appeals. Quartz comes in a wide range of colors, including uniform tones and modern finishes. Marble has naturally elegant veining, making each slab one-of-a-kind, perfect for homeowners who want timeless charm.

Key Features of Quartz

Quartz is extremely durable, non-porous, and resistant to stains. It’s available in sleek, contemporary colors and doesn’t require sealing, making it a popular choice for active households.

Key Features of Marble

Marble offers a soft, cool surface ideal for baking and a luxurious appearance for bathrooms. However, it’s more porous than quartz and requires regular maintenance.

Durability: Quartz Marble Counter Face-Off

Quartz is engineered to be tough. It resists scratches, stains, and heat, making it great for everyday use. Marble, though beautiful, is more delicate and can scratch or stain if not cared for. So, in a Quartz vs Marble Countertops showdown, quartz wins for durability.

Maintenance: Which One is Easier?

If you want low-maintenance beauty, quartz is the answer. It doesn’t require sealing and is easy to clean. Marble needs more attention and special cleaners. For busy homeowners, a Quartz Marble Countertop makes life simpler.

Quartz vs Granite Countertops

Heat and Scratch Resistance Comparison

Quartz can withstand moderate heat but may get damaged by direct exposure to hot pots. Marble can handle heat well but is softer and more likely to scratch. Knowing how each material performs in real kitchens can help you decide which Quartz Marble Countertop fits your lifestyle.

Aesthetics: Beauty in Every Stone

Marble offers a classic, high-end look with natural veining. Quartz gives you sleek, modern designs with uniform color. Choosing a Quartz Marble Countertop depends on whether you prefer luxury or contemporary elegance.

Cost Comparison

Marble is typically more expensive, especially rare varieties. Quartz is often more budget-friendly, with lower installation costs. If you’re looking for value, a Quartz Marble Countertop may be the better investment.

Where Should You Use Each?

A Quartz Marble Counter works best when matched to its location’s needs.

Ready to Upgrade Your Kitchen or Bathroom?

Let Superior Granite help you bring your dream countertop to life. Whether you’re drawn to the sleek performance of quartz or the classic elegance of marble, our expert team will guide you every step of the way.

Contact us today for a free consultation and explore your perfect Quartz Marble Counter solution!

Final Thoughts

The right Quartz vs Marble Countertops depends on your style and lifestyle. Quartz offers durability and ease, while marble brings timeless luxury. No matter your choice, both materials enhance the value and beauty of your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which is more durable, quartz or marble countertops?

Quartz is more durable than marble. A Quartz Marble Counter made from quartz resists scratches, stains, and daily wear better than marble.

2. Do quartz countertops require sealing?

No. Quartz is non-porous and does not need sealing, making it a low-maintenance option in the Quartz Marble Counter debate.

3. Can marble be used in kitchens?

Yes, but marble is softer and prone to staining. If used, it should be installed in low-use zones and sealed regularly for best performance.

4. Which is more expensive: quartz or marble?

Marble is typically more expensive than quartz, especially premium varieties. A Quartz Marble Counter using quartz is usually the more budget-friendly option.

5. Which looks more elegant, quartz or marble?

Marble offers a naturally elegant look with soft veining, while quartz delivers sleek, modern styles. A Quartz Marble Counter choice depends on your design preference.

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Stone Countertop Materials: Granite vs. Alternatives

From the timeless elegance of marble to the durability of granite and the versatility of quartzite, each stone countertop material offers its own unique characteristics and benefits. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore four of the most popular stone countertop materials, including granite, marble, quartzite, and soapstone, to help you make an informed decision about granite vs. alternatives for your home.

1. Soapstone: Timeless Charm and Practicality

Soapstone is a natural stone known for its timeless charm and practicality, making it an excellent choice for countertops. Quarried from select locations around the world, soapstone features a smooth, matte finish and a rich, deep color that darkens over time. While soapstone is softer and more prone to scratching than granite or quartzite, it is highly resistant to heat and staining, making it ideal for use in kitchens. With proper care and maintenance, soapstone countertops develop a natural patina that adds to their beauty and character.

2. Quartzite: Beauty and Durability Combined

Quartzite is a natural stone that combines the beauty of marble with the durability of granite, making it an increasingly popular choice for countertops. Formed from sandstone and subjected to extreme heat and pressure, quartzite features a crystalline structure that gives it a unique sparkle and shimmer. Quartzite countertops are highly resistant to heat, scratches, and stains, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. With a wide range of colors and patterns available, quartzite offers endless design possibilities for homeowners.

3. Marble: Timeless Elegance and Luxury

Marble is synonymous with luxury and sophistication, known for its timeless elegance and classic beauty. Quarried from mountains around the world, marble is a metamorphic rock that features striking veining and a soft, luminous appearance. While marble is more susceptible to etching, scratching, and staining than granite, many homeowners are drawn to its unparalleled beauty and charm. Whether used as a kitchen countertop, bathroom vanity, or fireplace surround, marble adds a touch of opulence to any space.

4. Granite: Timeless Beauty and Durability

Granite is perhaps the most well-known and beloved stone countertop material, prized for its timeless beauty and exceptional durability. Formed deep within the earth’s crust under intense heat and pressure, granite is a natural stone that boasts unique patterns, colors, and veining. Its dense composition makes it highly resistant to scratches, stains, and heat, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens. With proper care and maintenance, granite countertops can last a lifetime, making them a wise investment for any home.

Stone countertops offer a timeless beauty, durability, and versatility that make them an excellent choice for any home. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of marble, the durability of granite, the beauty of quartzite, or the rustic charm of soapstone, there’s a stone countertop material to suit every style and budget. With proper care and maintenance, stone countertops can last a lifetime, adding value and beauty to your home for years to come. Explore the wide range of stone countertop materials available and discover the perfect option for your home today.

Factors to Consider When Selecting Material for Stone Countertops: Granite vs. Alternatives

When it comes to selecting countertops for your kitchen or bathroom, you’re faced with a plethora of options, ranging from natural stone to engineered materials. Among these choices, granite stands out as a timeless and enduring option that continues to be favored by homeowners and designers alike.

Durability of Granite vs. Alternatives

One of the primary reasons why granite countertops are worth it is their unmatched durability. Granite is a natural stone formed under extreme heat and pressure, resulting in a dense and resilient material that can withstand daily wear and tear with ease. Unlike laminate or tile countertops that are prone to chipping, scratching, and staining, granite countertops are highly resistant to damage, making them ideal for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

Timelessness of Granite vs. Alternatives

Another compelling reason to choose granite countertops is their timeless elegance and beauty. With its unique patterns, intricate veining, and rich colors, granite adds a touch of sophistication and luxury to any space. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of white granite or the dramatic beauty of black granite, each slab of granite is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that adds character and charm to your home.

Versatility of Granite vs. Alternatives

Granite countertops offer endless design possibilities, allowing you to customize your space to suit your style and preferences. Whether your home has a traditional, transitional, or contemporary design aesthetic, there’s a granite countertop that will complement your decor perfectly. From sleek and polished finishes to textured and honed surfaces, granite can be tailored to fit any design scheme and enhance the overall look and feel of your space.

Value of Granite vs. Alternatives

Investing in granite countertops can also significantly increase the value of your home. Granite is a highly sought-after feature among homebuyers, who recognize its durability, beauty, and long-term value. By installing granite countertops in your kitchen or bathroom, you can attract more potential buyers and command a higher selling price when it comes time to sell your home. In this way, granite countertops are not just a functional upgrade but also a smart investment in your property’s future.

Granite countertops offer a multitude of advantages over alternatives, making them a worthwhile investment for any home. With their unmatched durability, timeless elegance, versatile design options, increased property value, and easy maintenance, granite countertops provide the perfect blend of style and functionality for modern living. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen or bathroom or building a new home, choosing granite countertops is a decision you won’t regret. Experience the beauty and durability of granite countertops in your home and enjoy a lifetime of luxury and sophistication.

Elevate Your Space with Superior Granite

Whether you’re dreaming of an outdoor kitchen oasis, a sleek and modern indoor kitchen, luxurious bathroom vanities, or even creative projects like stunning fireplaces, our extensive selection of granite, marble, quartzite, and other stone materials offers endless possibilities.

With years of experience and a passion for craftsmanship, our team will work closely with you to understand your vision, preferences, and budget, guiding you through every step of the selection process. From choosing the perfect slab to expert installation, we’ll ensure that your project is completed to perfection, exceeding your expectations every time.

Don’t settle for ordinary countertops when you can elevate your space with Superior Granite. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start bringing your vision to life. Let’s create something extraordinary together!

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Last week I was walking the slab yard with a lovely couple and perusing our inventory in the hot, Florida sun. It was their first visit to Superior Granite and they had many questions that I was happy to answer. Potential customers typically ask many of the same questions when doing research on which material would work best in their home and why. We strolled through the pavilion and I explained the myriad of natural stone varieties we stock and the price per square foot for each option. While we tried to create an artificial breeze by waving our notebooks, the gentleman asked the most common question I get as a natural stone sales rep: “What makes one option more or less expensive than another?”

It’s certainly easy to understand why, unless you work in the construction industry, you may not know what factors into the pricing of each slab. However, any sales rep worth their salt will explain where the material is quarried and why it is high or low on the price scale. Often it is as simple as supply and demand. Many of the less expensive granite options are commonly used in hotels, banks, and spec homes. Granites like St. Cecilia, Uba Tuba, Gallo Ornamental, or Ivory White are beautiful slabs, but are often priced lower because they have a very consistent pattern and are easy to obtain in bulk. There are many natural stone companies that sell lower grade granite that is mixed with resin or fill and sold at a cheaper price. These types of slabs are going to be far less likely to withstand heat, spills, or scratches. Superior Granite is proud to directly import our inventory from all over the world. The quality of our natural stone is first-rate regardless of the price or color. Always ask your sales rep where the slabs you are inquiring about were quarried and if they are a composite or have resin/fill. There are some instances where it is necessary to use an epoxy to fill fissures in certain slabs, but this should be kept at a minimum and should not affect the durability of the stone.

A word you will likely hear to describe higher priced natural stones is “exotic”. Describing slabs as exotic can mean many things. A slab can be exotic because it is rare and an incredibly durable type of natural stone. Quartzite is very often described in such a manner. Because it is extremely dense and unlikely to stain, scratch, or be damaged by heat, quartzite is a highly sought-after natural stone and is almost always priced on the higher end. Along with the wide range of color, movement, and versatility, quartzite is more expensive because it is harder to quarry. All of these characteristics contribute to a higher price for the material.

Additionally, certain minerals and colors can ensure a higher price tag as well. Labradorite is a stunning mineral found in rare granite that has a crystal-like structure. Cobalt and/or iridescent blue is an unusual find in most natural stone slabs making it the very definition of exotic and high end. Lemurian Blue granite is chock full of labradorite and shades of blue.
At the end of my appointment where the “oh so frequent” question about differences in pricing was asked, a thought occurred to me. When shopping for most items (cars, designer luggage, even most foods) you can typically spot with ease what will be expensive and what is more affordable. Both myself and my colleagues are proud to be sales representatives for Superior Granite and the effort our owners go to by importing the best natural stone from all over the world. Our customers are rarely able to see the differences of affordable or high end. So much so that they often ask, “What makes one option more or less expensive than another?”

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A DIVERSE INVENTORY AND HOW IT SAVES YOU TIME, MONEY, AND YOUR SANITY!

There are many things in life that bring me joy. The smell of fresh cut grass, the first cool morning of Spring announcing its arrival, and getting containers full of new inventory. Anyone working on a new construction project, remodel, renovation, or even just ordering new appliances will understand that the last two years have doubled (sometimes tripled) the arrival time of materials needed. There are many reasons for these delays but none of them remedy the anxiety of waiting. If you are in need of new countertops or slabs for your home then I have exciting news…YOU DON’T HAVE TO WAIT!

Superior Granite leads the Gulf Coast/Panhandle in customer service, state of the art technology for templating and fabrication, and highly skilled installers. All of that is reason enough to visit one of our three beautiful showrooms, yet what I personally think sets up far apart from the rest is the largest inventory of every type of natural stone, quartz, and porcelain slabs in our region.

When you have to order the material used for your project you risk waiting weeks to months for it to arrive. The owners at Superior Granite have worked diligently for years to curate an inventory from all over the world so that not only will you not have to wait on your material, but you only purchase the quantity of square feet needed for your project. If you’ve ever had to purchase a significant amount of material that wasn’t necessary for your job you know the damage it does to your wallet. Superior Granite aims to eliminate that burden. Every customer is unique and has different preferred design aesthetics so we bring in a diverse quantity of slabs that cater to everyone. Right now, we are bursting at the seams with new inventory and cannot wait for you to take a look!

Porcelain is our newest venture in countertops. We discussed the benefits of porcelain surfaces in our March 1st blog, and we’ve since added to our inventory on that front as well. Come see for yourself the depth, beauty, and wide range of both design types AND capabilities of these slabs. I know you’ll be impressed.

Superior Granite also has more options in stock of natural stone and quartz than ever before (and at every price point). However, I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that our inventory is only one part of a multi-faceted effort to make your experience as stress free as possible. Our knowledge and customer service is second to none, we implement the latest technology to be as accurate as possible, and our employees are highly trained in their respective fields. Our goal for every job is to leave the customer feeling excited about their experience. Check out our Google reviews to see what our customer have to say!

As always, we look forward to meeting you and helping you with your project. Call or come by one of our three showrooms to get the process started. See you soon!

www.superiorgranite.com

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Close your eyes and imagine: the sunlight is on your face, the smell of a ribeye steak sizzling on the grill in from of you, perhaps your children or friends are splashing and laughing in the pool within earshot. Drink in hand, you’re enjoying every moment of your outdoor kitchen/grill area and making memories that last a lifetime. Sounds pretty amazing, yes? IT IS!

If you’ve ever had a construction project you are well aware of the many options typically available to you. With Spring here and Summer just around the corner, outdoor kitchen and grill areas are being used to enjoy the sunshine and make as many memories as possible. There are pros and cons to almost everything and the materials used outdoors are no exception.

When choosing the appropriate countertop for an outdoor kitchen, durability and resilience is top priority, even before aesthetics. Selecting a beautiful material won’t matter if it doesn’t hold up over time. Superior Granite will help you make an informed, educated choice that works best for YOU.

WHAT ARE THE BEST OPTIONS FOR AN OUTDOOR APPLICATION?
Granite and Quartzite are the densest natural stone options available for a countertop. They are the least porous and can withstand outdoor elements better than their softer stone counterparts. If you have a pavilion or covering over your outdoor kitchen or grill, your countertops will be out of direct sunlight and precipitation making them far less likely to fade from UV rays. It is important that when selecting a natural stone your ask your Superior Granite sales rep about fill or resin, as it can yellow in direct sunlight. Keeping your natural stone countertops sealed properly is essential to their success. The sealer is made to fill in the pores of the stone which will protect against bacteria from food preparation and protect the surface from stains. Softer natural stones, such as Dolomite, may be used at the homeowner’s discretion, but we recommend only in areas that have a covering and having a texture applied to the surface of the slab. While texturing the stone won’t keep it from scratching or possibly staining, it does make it much less noticeable. Porcelain slabs are perfectly suited for outdoor areas as they do not need to be sealed, are heat and stain resistant, and won’t fade in the sun. The glaze in porcelain slabs also give them amazing depth. They look beautiful in any area, outdoors included!

WHAT OPTIONS SHOULD I AVOID?
Quartz is a manufactured material that is not specified for outdoor use. Because resin is used as a binding agent in quartz slabs, it will likely yellow and/or discolor over time. Even in undirect sunlight quartz will almost certainly fade and is not recommended to go outside. Very soft natural stones such as Marble, Travertine, Limestone, and Calcite may look beautiful when first installed. However, they are very porous, making them susceptible to scratches and stains. Liquids absorb quickly into the surface where bacteria and germs can grow. This makes food preparation less hygienic than their denser natural stone counterparts. Even if sealed properly, these natural stones can still absorb smells and liquids and are not recommended in an outdoor application.

Ultimately, Superior Granite makes it our primary goal to help you choose the best material for your project, regardless of the location. Call or stop by one of our three locations and we can get started today. See you very soon!

www.superiorgranite.com

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READY FOR NEW FABULOUS COUNTERTOPS? HERE IS WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A PROVIDER: 

So, it’s time for new countertops in your kitchen or bathroom? Perhaps you’re planning to remodel. Or, you may possibly be building a new home. Either way, there are things you should look for when you search for the right company to invite into your home and provide your new countertops.

First of all, the measurements taken for your countertops need to be done by a company that implements digital templating. When measured digitally, not only can the countertops be measured to the millimeter, but once taken they can be uploaded into a computer with software that works in conjunction with a CNC machine.

CNC, or Computer Numerical Control, machines are automated tools that make the fabrication of countertops easier to manage. CNC machinery makes errors in fabrication much less likely than using a manual saw. The digital template is uploaded using Auto Cad or similar software and then used by a CNC machine to fabricate your granite. Finding a company that uses the most recent and state of the art technology is paramount when choosing a fabricator and/or installer for your countertops. Most fabricators using digital technology will lay out your kitchen in Auto CAD to insure all pieces flow in the same direction and the seams match up perfectly. You should be able to review your kitchen layout prior to fabrication to ensure it’s designed to your specifications.

Finally, research is of the utmost importance. Search online for the most reputable company that does work near you. If you have friends and/or family that have had countertops installed recently ask who they used and if they would recommend that company to you. Remember that the least expensive estimate is rarely the best final product. Read the online reviews for any company you are thinking of hiring. Also, a reputable company should offer an estimate at no charge. If a company has no waitlist it is likely that they have no customers; be sure to ask why. If you do your research and read the reviews for the company you may hire, you are more likely to get the job you envisioned.

SUPERIOR GRANITE has the largest inventory on the Panhandle and three accessible locations to help you find the PERFECT countertop for your home. Please stop by our Pensacola, Pace, or Ft. Walton location and our experienced sales personnel will be happy to help you in any way we can!

www.superiorgranite.com

Pensacola (850) 941-0270

Pace/Milton (850) 994-1872

Ft. Walton (850) 301-0716

The post Looking For New Countertops? Here’s A Few Tips… appeared first on Superior Granite.

Whether renovating, remodeling, or building a new home from the ground up, technology allows us more choices than ever before in the design process. An exciting new option for natural stone countertops has emerged and is gaining in popularity as it becomes more accessible to natural stone distributors. The same way a paint color is available in a variety of finishes, natural stone can be polished, honed, or textured to your preference, giving you myriad options and looks using the same slab. We will explore the different textures available for natural stone slabs and the techniques used to obtain them.

Aside from polished stone slabs, the most common finish is HONED. When a slab is honed the surface is buffed leaving a smooth, matte finish with no texture or polish. The end result is suede-like and muted in tone. Honed finishes are most popular with marble slabs, but can be done with granite, calcite, dolomite, and quartzite slabs.

More popular in the last few years is the LEATHERED texture applied to stone surfaces. Slabs that have been leathered tend to be non-reflective and will have a unique consistency depending on the type of stone. Leathered granite has a smaller, pebble like texture while leathered quartzite will have hills and valleys reflective of the veins the slab has naturally.

The most reputable natural stone distributors may offer yet another texture option called CARESSED. The caressed texture takes a leathered finish and adds a slight polish on the plateaus of the slab. Only the hardest natural stone slabs such as granite and quartzite can be caressed, and the result is exceptionally beautiful.

The texturing process is done by placing the stone slab in a mechanized tray that fills with water, covering the surface of the slab. Next a large buffer with a series of rubber brushes moves back and forth over the slab until the desired texture is achieved. The texturing process adds a level of sophistication and a unique look to your countertops.

Superior Granite in Pensacola, Florida is the only fabricator on the Gulf Coast Panhandle that is able to texture slabs in house. The geographical area we typically service is Mobile, Alabama to Panama City, Florida but will consider areas outside of our norm depending on the projects. Stop by one of our three convenient showroom locations to see the many options we have available in textured stone or ask our sales staff about having the stone of your choice custom textured to your preference. We look forward to working with you!

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If you’ve visited any reputable slab yard of late chances are you’ve seen the beautiful Fantasy Brown. As gorgeous as she is popular, Fantasy Brown is the head cheerleader of the natural stone world. It’s being used with increasing frequency because of its unique ability to pull both warm and cool tones. Many slab yards will have both a light and dark Fantasy Brown option, changing from cool, silvery veins to sweeping rivers of chocolate brown, depending on the shade. However, there is one question consistently plaguing customers in search of Fantasy Brown…what IS it?

Fantasy Brown is a natural stone that has been quarried and cut into slabs, but exactly what type of stone? Different slab yards and fabricators sell Fantasy Brown as anything from granite, marble, quartzite, and everything else under the sun. This can be overwhelming for the homeowner trying to do their due diligence and make an informed decision.

DRUMROLL…

Fantasy Brown is a DOLOMITE. Dolomite is a sedimentary natural stone that is formed over time with magnesium-rich groundwater. Aesthetically, it shares many characteristics with marble, such as subtle, soft veins and light colors. However, in most applications dolomite slabs are more durable than marble and, if sealed and maintained properly, should not stain or etch as easily as marble countertops.

It is important to know what Fantasy Brown truly is before you install it in your home. Granites and quartzites are among the most durable natural stones available, so if you treat your Fantasy Brown as you would granite or quartzite you are likely to have unexpected issues over time. Ask your sales person for a sealed sample of the material you plan to use, then test it with various substances in ten-minute intervals to see how well the sample holds up.

Be realistic about how you use your space. If you have children who tend to not clean up spills or if you host a weekly happy hour at your home, you may want to use a granite, quartzite, or even quartz material in your home. If you are good about cleaning spills as they occur or maybe don’t cook much at home, Fantasy Brown dolomite could be perfect for you.

Regardless of the material, it is important to ask questions and educate yourself about what is going into your home. Insist that your slab yard/fabricator tell you the origin of the stone you are interested in using and how to keep it looking beautiful over the years. Do as much research as possible before making your final selection and you are more likely to be happy in the long run.

Fantasy Brown dolomite at Superior Granite in Pensacola

https://superiorgranite.com/current-inventory/

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