#kitchenandbathroom

Changing countertops in your kitchen can completely change the look of the room and add value to your home. They can also make it easier to cook and clean up. However, not all countertop surfaces are the same and each offer different pros and cons. Let’s discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the many popular options for counters in this area.

Granite Counters

Definitely the most popular option in this area, granite is stunning in any kitchen. You can have granite polished to a gleaming shine or it can be honed for a softer appearance. It also comes in a wide variety of colors. Because granite slabs are large, they can be set close together so that grout lines are not noticeable. This provides a smooth line of color which gives your kitchen a glamorous look.

However, granite is very heavy, and you may need to reinforce your cabinets if you had a lighter countertop before. The more unique the color of the granite, the more expensive it will be as well. Although it is resistant to chipping and cracking, it is vulnerable to acidic materials like wine, coffee, and citrus juices, so spills of those substances need to be wiped up quickly.

Marble Counters

Marble is available in colors that are usually lighter than granite although black marble is an option. The veining of marble gives your kitchen a rich, luxurious look. Marble has been used as a building material for centuries and the fact that it is still just as beautiful in old, historic buildings as it was when it was installed is a testament to its durability.

Marble is also available in slabs or as tiles. It is more expensive than granite and it is particularly porous. If you choose a lighter shade of marble, you need to be careful with tomato-based sauces, red wine, and coffee as they can easily stain the surface. Marble must also be sealed periodically to protect the surface.

Quartz Counters

Also known as engineered stone, quartz is often less expensive than natural stone but looks almost identical. Quartz counters come in a wider color range than natural stone as pigments are added during the formation phase of the countertop while natural stone is dependent only on colors that nature can create. It is extremely durable and resistant to chipping or cracking. Quartz is not as heat resistant as natural stone and they also appear “shinier.” This type of counter is not recommended for outdoor use as it can be damaged by direct sunlight, according to Marble Concepts.

Ceramic Tile

One popular type of countertop in this area is ceramic tile as it is durable and available in many styles as well as colors. Ceramic tile allows you some versatility in design as you can mix and match tiles on the surface plus you can change to a different type of tile for the backsplash. The main disadvantage to ceramic tile is that grout can become dirty or erode in areas where the counter is heavily used. This means you may need to replace grout on occasion in areas that become grimy, or the grout erodes.

Soapstone Options

Soapstone is an affordable option for your kitchen with veining that is particularly unique. It is naturally resistant to bacteria and stains which makes it the perfect option for your home, especially if you have children. Soapstone, while available in various shades of gray, does not offer the wide range of colors available in granite or even marble. It is also less resistant to scratches or cracking as it is a much softer stone. Like marble, soapstone must be sealed periodically in order to protect the surface.

Laminate Counters

One of the most affordable options in countertops, laminate, is also the most popular. It is easy to clean, and today’s versions actually mimic other more expensive types of countertops, including granite and marble. Laminate is also lightweight so there is no need to reinforce cabinets for their installation. They are not as durable, however, and they can easily be scratched. Laminate is also not heat resistant. The edges of some laminate counters can peel away or chip, giving your countertop edge an unattractive look.

Butcher Block

Although many homeowners have made the switch from wood to stone, butcher block is still a very popular option for kitchen counters. This type of counter is sturdy, affordable, and offers a great option as a cutting board. If you are creating a cottage-style kitchen, butcher block is a perfect choice. If a section of the counter becomes damaged, you can easily replace just that section. Butcher block counters are high maintenance, however. They are easily scratched and will eventually develop a worn appearance. You can lengthen their lifespan by sealing the counters and not using knives directly on the surface, but this type of counter is not as durable as stone.

Stainless Steel

There is a reason industrial and professional kitchens use stainless steel for surfaces. It is easy to clean and because spills are easily seen, they don’t go unnoticed and can be cleaned quickly. Stainless is resistant to staining and is a great option if you want an industrial look in your kitchen. It also pairs well with wood accents. Stainless is expensive, however, and it can be difficult to keep the sheen of stainless over time. It is hard to prevent fingerprint marks and stainless can warp or scratch over time.

Concrete Options

Today, you can find concrete counters that mimic the look of other stones at a lower cost. It is more durable, resisting chips and stains. Because they are manufactured similarly to quartz, you can also choose a wide range of colors and styles. Concrete counters need to be sealed regularly and it does not have the durability of natural stone.

If you are considering new counters for your kitchen, contact Marble Concepts today. With over 30 years of experience creating the perfect countertops for people just like you, we are ready to guide you through the entire process. Contact us today at 215-396-7393 or fill out the easy online form today.

The post What Are the Pros and Cons of Popular Kitchen Countertop Materials in PA? appeared first on Marble Concepts.

When considering a bathroom remodel, it is crucial to understand the associated costs of the project. This type of renovation can be a significant emotional and financial investment. Before starting the project, you will want to break down the expenses. Some parts of the project can be more costly than others, and you must plan accordingly to avoid surprises. Here is what you need to know about the most expensive part of a bathroom remodel in Pottstown, PA.

Remodeling Costs

While many homeowners may feel frustrated spending tens of thousands of dollars on a renovation, the return on investment can make it all worth it. A bathroom remodel may cost anywhere from $5,500 to $15,000, making it one of the more expensive rooms to renovate. Why? Typically, there is extensive plumbing work required for the project. Remodeling a bathroom often involves replacing or relocating sinks, toilets, and showers, which can quickly drive up costs.

Despite the higher price tag of a bathroom renovation, the return on investment can be well worth the expense. On average, homeowners can expect an ROI of at least 65% on their remodeled bathroom, meaning that the value of their home increases significantly with this upgrade. Of course, there are the intangible benefits of enjoying a new and improved bathroom with your family for years to come.

The Most Expensive Part of a Bathroom Remodel

When remodeling a bathroom, each aspect of the renovation will come with its own costs, making it challenging to plan a budget. That’s why many people want to know the most expensive aspects of a bathroom remodel. In almost all cases, labor is the costliest part of this project.

Labor can account for around 20% of the total bathroom remodeling budget. Depending on the project, contractors may charge anywhere from $40 to $100 per hour. Labor costs can vary depending on the specific job being done.

The idea of DIYing a bathroom renovation may seem tempting, but working with plumbing and other fixtures is a difficult task. The intricate plumbing work required during a bathroom remodel can be difficult for an amateur to handle. For that reason, you will want to hire a professional with experience in tackling these types of projects. Not only will a professional ensure that the job is done correctly, but they can also help to avoid costly mistakes that could damage new fixtures or other aspects of the renovation. In the end, investing in a professional contractor for a bathroom remodel can save homeowners time, money, and stress in the long run.

While labor costs are a significant aspect of a bathroom remodel, you will want to consider other elements for your project. Typically, materials can account for around 60% of the total budget. Your unique requirements for the remodel may also affect the final cost. Whether you’re looking to create a luxurious spa-like atmosphere or update the look and feel of your existing bathroom, you will want to select materials that fit your style and budget.

What Else Can Affect the Price?

When it comes to bathroom remodeling, various factors can affect the overall budget. Here are some additional expenses to consider:

Quality of Materials

As mentioned earlier, materials make up a significant portion of the overall cost of a bathroom remodel. The quality of the materials you choose can significantly affect the final price. For example, high-end marble countertops or custom-made cabinets will cost more than standard ceramic tiles or pre-made vanities.

Changes in Bathroom Layout

Changing the layout of your bathroom can dramatically affect the final cost. Bathroom changes can include moving walls, plumbing fixtures, or electrical outlets. The more changes you make to the layout, the more labor and material costs you can expect. Make sure to work with a professional to determine what changes are necessary and feasible within your budget.

Hiring Specialists

If you want to create a truly customized bathroom, you may need to hire specialists, such as designers or architects. While this can add to the overall cost, it can also help ensure that your vision is realized. Designers can help you create a cohesive and functional space, while architects can ensure that structural changes are done correctly and safely.

Accessibility Requirements

If you have mobility issues or require accessibility features in your bathroom, this can add to the overall cost. Grab bars, walk-in tubs, or wider doorways are essential for some individuals but can increase the cost of a remodel.

Permitting and Inspection Costs

Finally, consider any permitting or inspection costs associated with your bathroom remodel. Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain permits and schedule inspections throughout the remodeling process. These costs can add up and should be factored into your overall budget.

You need to approach a bathroom to remodel with a realistic understanding of the costs involved. By considering all the factors mentioned above, you can better plan for your project and ensure that you have a beautiful and functional bathroom that meets your needs and budget.

Need Granite Companies Nearby?

When replacing your countertops, you will want to hire a professional company with the necessary training and skills to deliver a stunning final product. At Marble Concepts, we have over 30 years of experience in the field and are committed to providing an exceptional finished product for your home. As one of the top granite companies in the area, make us the top choice for your next project. Contact us at 215-396-7393 to schedule a consultation.

The post What Is The Most Expensive Part of a Bathroom Remodel in Pottstown, PA? appeared first on Marble Concepts.

Getting an accurate idea about how long a master bathroom remodels takes can help you to figure out how long you will be without one of your bathrooms. Especially if you only have two bathrooms in the entire home, the master bathroom going out for a remodel can throw your life into chaos and inconvenience.

How Long Does the Average Master Bathroom Remodel Take?

You can expect a master bathroom remodel to take anywhere from four to six weeks. While this gives you the average estimate, no contractor can give you an exact date because multiple factors can delay a remodeling project. Most of the time, you can expect problems to arise. It comes with the territory.

How long your bathroom remodeling project takes will depend on multiple factors:

Technical failures

Workers calling in sick

Workers injured on the job

Logistical delays

Delays with signing the permit

Weather delays

Pre-existing home conditions

Even small changes to your project can shift the whole project with how you complete it. Unexpected circumstances can arise where a project that might have taken 23 days suddenly doubles to 46 days.

What is the Scale of the Master Bathroom Remodel?

Ask yourself, “Will I do a simple cosmetic remodel or strip the bathroom to the studs?” Simple bathroom remodels may require as little as a few days, but if you plan to undertake a big remodeling project, you can expect it to take much longer. Next, consider if you will hire a contractor or take the remodeling on as a DIY project. The DIY route can take much longer because you do all the work yourself instead of an expert working with subcontractors to complete the work.

If you choose to remodel the project by yourself, a 15-day timeline can, in fact, wind up taking two to three months before you complete it. It does cost less than hiring contractors, however, but you should know what to expect.

You need to think about the materials and their availability. Are all the materials available, or will you need to wait for delivery? Ceramic tiles, for example, have an infamous reputation for holding back projects by several weeks, so you want to understand the landscape of the materials you need before you take it on and order ahead of time.

Understanding the Phases of a Bathroom Remodeling

Let’s break down a master bathroom remodel and look at the estimated time that each phase takes.

Demolition

Depending on the scale of the project, demolition usually takes anywhere from two to five days. You can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 for this phase, and the cost and how long it takes will look at what you need to remove. For example, removing the walls is common, and it usually costs anywhere from $90 to $120. During this phase, you install the structural beams and new windows.

Plumbing Rough-Ins

You can expect this part of the project to take one to four days. This averages most homeowners $2,250 and depends on the number and types of fixtures.

Rough Carpentry

The rough carpentry phase requires takes about two days, and the average cost is around $7,000.

Tiling Preparations

This usually costs you anywhere from $4 to $115 per square foot, depending on the materials, and it will take anywhere from one to three days.

Sheeting

You can expect sheeting to take anywhere from one to two days.

Waterproofing

Waterproofing inside of a bathroom does matter, and it usually takes two to four days to make the bathroom ready for future use.

Tiling

Tiling in the bathroom takes anywhere from five to seven days when you cut them out and install them on the floors and walls.

Tile Finishing

Putting the finishing on the tiling like getting the critical joints grouted and silicone will usually take one to three days.

Painting

You can expect painting the bathroom to take two to five days. This is also the part where you touch it up to give it a fresh look. How long it takes depends on the size of the bathroom and how many people you hired to help paint.

Vanity and Countertops

This phase of the project requires three to five days depending on how many counters you need. Google “Granite companies nearby” in Norristown, Pennsylvania, to shorten the time it takes to get the materials from a local and trusted company.

Installing Fixtures

Getting fixtures installed will take anywhere from two to four days, and you will use this time to install sinks, toilets, taps, and bathtubs. How long it takes depends on the scale of your project with more fixtures requiring more time.

Details and Adjustments

You can expect the details and adjustments to take anywhere from two to four days. You’d think of this part as the miscellaneous work that helps you to put the finishing touches on the bathroom. This helps you to get it ready for use.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a variety of stone choices for your master bathroom remodeling project, speak with Marble Concepts. Since 1991, we have served the Norristown, Pennsylvania, region, and we can help you to get the materials for your remodeling project. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call today at 215-396-7393.

The post How Long Does It Take to Remodel a Master Bathroom in Norristown, PA? appeared first on Marble Concepts.

Designing a new kitchen may sound like a wonderful and creative task and we would have to agree, it is a lot of fun! Saying that there are some common difficulties especially when choosing materials and designs that can make the processes a little lengthy and one that you will not find yourself wanting to redo especially if you are on a budget. Making sure that your new kitchen turns out how you imagined is what we are aiming to do in this article. Knowledge is key and making sure that you watch out for these common mistakes and pitfalls when remodeling your kitchen will save you a big headache down the line.

Aim not to waste space

In any home, you will want to make use of the space you have and not overcrowd the kitchen when remodeling. Using space efficiently and making sure that you are not wasting any useful space that could potentially be a functional area of your kitchen will help make sure that your kitchen is fit for use for the whole family. When remodeling your kitchen and creating design plans, imagine yourself using the kitchen. We would recommend that when measuring everything out and deciding where you want your island to be and your cooker placed you should always choose function first. Planning ahead for your kitchen to be fully functioning will save frustrations that may occur at a later date. Changing certain elements of a kitchen’s appearance at a later date may be a little easier than changing the layout.

Make sure to leave plenty of room to walk

We all love big countertops as it means that there will be plenty of space for cooking and using the kitchen without any worry. Watching out that your kitchen countertops are not oversized will save you trouble in the future as you will want to make sure that there is plenty of room when walking through the aisles of your kitchen, especially if you have an island. Allowing enough space for multiple cooks to be able to use the kitchen will make the room more functional and inviting. Making sure that you leave enough room for all appliances like ovens, Fridges, and freezers is also a very important element to consider when the measuring and design occur for your new kitchen countertops.

Going oversized does not work for every room

They say that when you have a small room, sometimes choosing very large furniture can make the room feel bigger. This is not the same thinking that you should apply to your new kitchen if your islands and cabinets are too big, the kitchen will become unmanageable and not as functional as it could be. The room will also look extremely crowded and not the most aesthetically pleasing if you choose to go for oversized islands. When an island is too big, it becomes hard to reach for belongings that you may keep in the middle of the island.

Changing the plan after the work has begun

Avoid avoid avoid, that is the main message we have for you here. Changing kitchen remodeling plans after the work has already begun will not likely cost you largely, not only your budget will be damaged but your time. There is also the added risk of complications when redoing certain elements of constructing your new kitchen.

Adding too little storage space

Planning ahead and adding storage when designing your remodel for your kitchen will help you out largely as a functioning working kitchen requires a lot of tools and appliances. Incorporating open storage, cabinets or shelves will keep your kitchen countertops clear from clutter or any heavy items that may end up damaging your kitchen countertops.

Not Planning enough money to be incorporated into your budget

When remodeling your kitchen, adding up the cost of each step will add up and it is best to prepare enough to complete the job. It is also best to plan to have a little bit of your budget saved just in case you need it along the way. Many people do not plan enough for the completion of their kitchen remodeling and this can slow your kitchen remodeling down or even leave you without a fully functioning kitchen for weeks on end.

Not following each step in the order it should be

Installing your new kitchen in a mismatched order will complicate the remodeling of your kitchen. For example, installing cabinets before the floors will potentially create problems that could occur in the future. The floor can lose the ability to expand and contract which will make cupping or peaking more possible. Installing cabinets before your floors will also make it very hard to remove the floor without damaging the cabinets if you need to in the future.

Call On Marble Concepts Today to Plan Your New Kitchen

There are numerous kitchen concept pitfalls that could turn your dream space into a literal nightmare. Hopefully, now that you know some of the common mistakes, you can avoid them. Marble Concepts can help. From the beginning to the end of your project, our team can help you revitalize your kitchen with superior-quality granite, marble, and other natural stone. Get in touch with us today at 215-396-7393 for a free consultation on your project.

The post Kitchen Remodel Pitfalls That You Should Avoid appeared first on Marble Concepts.