Granite vs. Quartz Countertops

Are you having trouble trying to figure out what kind of countertops you should get in your kitchen or bath?? Not sure what would be the best route when it comes to the stone choices??? Well D&H would like to help you with your decision...Here are some facts about stone countertops:

Quartz Countertops:

*Man-Made product that mixes quartz found in granite with a resin to make a surface with properties almost identical to granite. Silestone and all other quartz companies generally produced the same product, which is widley known as an excellent countertop surface.

*Quartz is a non-porous product so it is impervious to stains.


Granite....the myths:

So I bet you have heard that sealing granite is a horrible and time consuming chore...this is totally false! Yes you do need to apply a granite sealer to this product but it is a simple "wipe on, wipe off" procedure. You could do nothing but wipe it with a sponge for years and it would still look gorgeous. Minor, easy maintenance will however, give you peace of mind and bring out the best in your granite and natural stone. And the same can be said about quartz. You may have also heard that you must seal granite to maintain it's shiny polish...not true! Sealing is for stain resistance.

Granite Harbors bacteria while quartz resists bacteria!...Again not true...studies prove that both granite and quartz are among the safest and cleanest surfaces on the market today, but one isn't superior to the other.

So which countertop is best??

Well, once you remove the hype and you understand that man-made quartz countertops and granite perform equally well and that the care and cleaning of each surface is essentially the same, the decision between granite and quartz usually comes down to color, pattern, and price!

KITCHEN ISLANDS

Did you know that adding an island to your kitchen will not only help create more work space but effortlessly create a gathering place during all your family get togethers. You can create a one level or two level kitchen island giving your kitchen just the boost it needs. Using a two level island makes it possible for your family to have a seperate eating area while you are preparing meals. Kitchen islands also create a great work station all in one, having a sink and trash pull out make for one convient area to do all of your prep work. When customizing your island think outside the box and add color to your kitchen, making your kitchen stand out with an onyx or painted finish island to add great contrast to any ordinary kitchen. If your budget does not include granite countertops, use Formica colors that are geared towards Granite colors. Then add Granite and some pendent lighting just on the center island to give it that special something. Start planning your island today but remember when measuring your kitchen you want to leave at least three feet walk ways to ensure enough room.

Recipe of the Month

D & H Cabinetry believes that along with a great kitchen should come great food. Each month we will be posting a new recipe for our blog readers. If you would like us to post a favorite recipe of yours, e-mail us at Jenn (at) dhcabinetry.com. Our readers are always looking for great family recipes that are a favorite in your home.

BAKED MACARONI & CHEESE

Boil 1/2 lb. noodles set aside. take 3 TBSP butter melt in a pan add 1/2 cup frozen onions, Saute awhile add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and pepper to taste. Add 2 scoops flour, 1 1/2 tea of dry mustard, one cup of milk and whisk. Add one pound of Velveeta cheese to butter mix, slowly melting it. Next using one can of drained sliced stewed tomatoes add to noodles that were set aside. Add cheese mix to noodles and tomato mix along with 3 pieces of provolone cheese and 1/2 cup of sour cream. Use 2 1/2 quart dish, spray with pam and add macaroni and cheese mix. MIX WELL. Placing four pieces of American Cheese on top and sprinkle with plain bread crumbs. Bake uncovered @ 350 degrees for one hour. ENJOY!!!!