November 28, 2021 igstone Bathroom, CountertopsBathroom, Countertop, Installation, Quartz

Using Quartz to Create a Beautiful Bathroom Oasis

Do you want your remodelled master bath suite to be encased in beautiful stone? You envision a sea of white worktops, a soaker tub, and floor tiles that all complement your design flawlessly. When looking for materials, though, you’ll notice that no two slabs of marble are comparable. Is there a substance that produces a more consistent look? Quartz could be the ideal material for your project. This article will explain the benefits of a quartz bathroom.

Quartz Bathroom Is a Stunning Choice

While quartz that appears like marble or travertine is available, it will never require the same level of maintenance as actual stone surfaces. The resins that have been incorporated into the stone aggregate harden, forming a waterproof layer. To remove complex watermarks and any evidence of soap scum, all you need is a soft cloth and light soap. The colours are fade-resistant, so your renovation will seem like new for years. Quartz is available in practically every colour of the rainbow, and it’s ready to make your design come to life.

Create a Seamless Spa With Coordinating Wall Panels

You can simply acquire enough material to make a magnificent walk-in shower enclosure because you may order matching quartz slabs. Your tiling professional can install the slabs on the walls. Your new vanity counter, toilet top, and open shelves are an excellent match for your one-of-a-kind shower. They can also be utilized to encircle your jetted spa tub.

Wrap Your Vanity to Give It a 5-Star Hotel Look

Have you seen the stunning marble vanities on Pinterest? There’s a strong possibility your inspiration photos were actually created with quartz. Quartz slabs can be put together with a mitered edge, elegantly encircling your vanity in an opulent and one-of-a-kind finish that will astound. Every surface you come into contact with will mirror a lavish image.

Designed to Last a Lifetime

Quartz is a man-made material that begins as ground-up dust and pebbles from the granite quarrying process. It becomes as rugged and durable as stone when combined with resins and hardened in a kiln. Quartz is stain, fracture, and scratch-resistant. You may anticipate a quartz countertop and quartz wall panels to last until the bathroom is remodelled again, whether that be in 10 or 50 years. Minor damage can even be repaired with a hidden repair.

Would you like to learn more about all of the choices for upgrading your bathroom? Then, visit Imperial Granite & Stone in Markham, Ontario. Our showroom is stocked with real-life samples of all of our most popular countertop materials, as well as big sample displays from a variety of quartz manufacturers. Bring your inspiration boards and samples to help you finish your concept and choose the perfect slab for your area.

November 18, 2021 igstone CountertopsCountertops, Granite

Granite Countertops Available In All Colours Options

“Select a stone with complementing flecks of copper or quartz to unify the colour palette”

So you’re planning a bathroom or kitchen renovation, and you’ve got your heart set on bright granite countertops. Do you think granite is all about single tones of grey or brown? Therefore you crossed it off your list? When you come to Imperial Granite & Stone in Markham, ON, you’ll be surprised to see how many material alternatives there are in every colour.

Gray Granite Countertops Look Great in a Modern Kitchen

Yes, grey granite is still mined in the Northeast’s quarries. Climbing the stairs at your local hall or seeing curbing around town may help you recognize its consistent colour with specks of quartz shimmering in the sun. It provides a signature centrepiece for your new grey kitchen when sliced into thin slabs and polished. There will be subtle variances in each slab.

Rust, Pink, and Sparkles Compliment White Decor

Pink granite is another frequent form of granite quarried in the United States. Pink can appear as a mild rust colour in remote locations, all over the slab, or as a grey or white slab incursions. In addition, many granite slabs have sparkles, which are particles of quartz that catch the light and give the stone an impression of movement. Now that granite is being imported from worldwide. There is a broader range of colour variations.

Black, White, and Blue Swirls and Bold Stripes

The bold blacks surfacing in showrooms are maybe one of the most exciting trends in granite counters. The rock face’s layered striations create virtually patterned stripes over the slab. The contrasting colours could be in the form of blocks, dots, or swirls. They stand out against the white cabinets, soft grey floors, and brightly coloured containers. In the right light, some blacks appear blue, providing even another layer to your design palette.

Calming Colours in Subtle Shades

If your kitchen is your haven and you prefer beige, brown, and cream throughout your home, you’ll discover a slab to complement your style. The brown and yellow tones match the natural wood tones of the bespoke cabinets and lend a vintage feel to the space. In addition, your white serving ware and black appliances will make a big statement in the room if you choose these subtle tones.

The only way to tell if granite countertops are suitable for your project is to see and touch it. So make an appointment with Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. for a tour and see a large selection of slabs ready to be personalized. Our office is in Markham, Ontario.

October 29, 2021 igstone CountertopsCountertop, Granite, Installation, Quartz

Quartz vs. Granite vs. Marble: Finding the Best Option

Stone Product Selection — ***“Regardless of which of the three materials you choose for your new countertops, you will have one of the best options for your home.”***

Quartz, granite, and marble are three of the most popular and best-selling countertop materials on the market. Granite countertops have risen to prominence in recent decades. While marble countertops have been a focal feature of homes for many years. Then there are quartz countertops, which have recently gained popularity as a suitable alternative to both granite and marble alternatives. But how do these three countertop materials stack up against one another? This guide will provide an answer to that query.

Characteristics of granite countertops

Granite countertops are among the most beautiful and durable surfaces available. When it comes to this magnificent natural stone, you will have a seemingly limitless assortment of shades and styles to choose from. Granite is extremely durable, making it an excellent countertop option for any home.

A granite countertop will look stunning despite of the place. The sole disadvantage of granite – if there is such a thing as a drawback – is that it must be sealed on a regular basis. Having to apply a sealer to your countertop once a year, though, is not a significant inconvenience.

Considering the stain-resistance, heat resistance, and scratch resistance of granite countertops, installing these surfaces in the home appears to be an easy choice

Characteristics of marble countertops

When it comes to building materials, marble is definitely a timeless classic. This is demonstrated by the use of natural stone in the construction of anything from some of the world’s most famous statues to kitchen and bathroom surfaces. While there are numerous gorgeous countertop materials, many homeowners believe that there is no material more beautiful than marble. Marble countertops are uncomparable in their beauty. Especially, with a wide range of tones and shapes available, many of which feature elegant veining.

While the beauty of marble is important, the material is also relatively durable. However, if you want to keep your marble countertops in good condition, you must maintain them on a regular basis. Because marble is more porous than granite, stone surfaces will need sealing more frequently. Marble countertops will need to be re-sealed a few times every year.

Marble is an excellent choice for luxurious countertops. There is no denying the beauty that this stone can bring to your home.

Features of Quartz Countertops

Quartz countertops are engineered surfaces that are composed of approximately 90% ground natural quartz and 10% polyresin. These percentages may vary somewhat depending on the brand, but will always be in the same area.

Despite the fact that quartz countertops are engineered, the surfaces are highly appealing. Since quartz countertops are not natural, they come in a variety of forms, including those that resemble natural stones such as granite and marble. Another advantage of engineered surfaces is that they are non-porous, which distinguishes them from granite and marble. This implies that quartz countertops do not need sealing in the way that granite and marble counters do.

One thing to keep in mind is to avoid exposing quartz surfaces to high heat. High temperatures can melt the resin, leaving a lasting burn imprint on the surface. Hot pots and pans should never be placed on a quartz countertop. One of the only areas where quartz does not match or outperform other countertop materials is heat resistance.

Homeowners frequently choose quartz as an alternative to not just granite and marble, but also materials such as solid surface. While quartz is similar to granite and marble in appearance, it is of higher quality than solid surface counters.

Which One Should You Choose: Quartz, Granite, or Marble?

When it comes to buying new countertops, you want to make a decision that will satisfy you both now and in the future. Installing kitchen or bathroom countertops can complete any home improvement project. While you will have to make the final decision on which is appropriate for your home, this section will help you along the way to making that decision.

Granite is an excellent countertop material if you want a material that comes in a range of colours and styles, is durable, and requires little maintenance.

Marble is a terrific choice if you want a countertop that has timeless appeal, comes in a range of hues and styles, and is long-lasting. Marble is a fantastic alternative as long as you don’t mind maintaining it (which requires re-sealing it every few months) and are prepared to take the necessary precautions to avoid acidic spills.

Perhaps the (not difficult) sealing required with natural stone does not appeal to you. Quartz is an excellent choice for a stunning engineered stone countertop that requires minimal care. It can be useful as a backsplash to complement your countertop. There are numerous advantages to using quartz as long as you are cautious and avoid scorching the surface with extreme heat.

Regardless of which of the three materials you select for your new countertops, you will have one of the greatest selections for your home. You can determine which material is ideal for your home by evaluating the various factors described and explained above.

October 19, 2021 igstone Countertops

The Benefits of a Quartz Countertop

***“Kitchen countertops must be long-lasting, stylish, and simple to clean and maintain. While many countertop materials have a few perks, quartz countertops have many of them.”***

Choosing the correct material for your counters can be difficult. There are numerous possibilities, each with their own set of benefits and drawbacks. It all comes down to personal choice and budget, like with any home renovation project. However, with so many alternatives to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to begin.

Quartz countertops have earned a reputation as a high-end surface material during the previous few decades. However, acquiring respect has been a slow process. Even today, quartz counters compete for space in kitchens and bathrooms with hard surface materials such as Corian and real stone.

The basics of Quartz Countertop

Quartz countertop material is a durable, man-made material that is primarily used in kitchens and baths. Quartz is an agglomerate (or mixture) of stone-like substances bound with resins and pushed into sheets. It outperforms natural stone since it does not require sealing. Its resins serve as a sealer. Since quartz materials are manufactured in a controlled environment, there are few imperfections.

Even if you are unfamiliar with the term quartz, you may be familiar with its more common name: engineered stone counters.

In easy words, quartz countertops are made up of 93% stone-like components and 7% binders that are either plastic-like (polymeric) or cement-based. Of those stone-like materials, quartz is just one of many substances.

Advantages of Quartz Countertops

Beautiful Appearance:

For many buyers, the main advantage of quartz countertops is their natural brilliance. Quartz, unlike laminate, has a rich, nearly three-dimensional appearance, similar to natural stone.

Hardness:

Quartz is extremely hard and offers an excellent work surface. It is mostly made up of minerals (contrasted with solid surface counters which are about 33-percent inorganic binding resins and 66-percent organic minerals). Laminate does not compete with quartz in this category because of its particleboard wood base layer, which gives it a hollow sensation.

Few or No Imperfections:

Since slab granite is a natural product, ripped straight from the earth and sliced into sheets, imperfections are to be expected. Installers find it easier to work with quartz than granite since it is a more predictable material with less waste.

Highly Durable:

Kitchens are high-traffic areas, so you need a countertop that can withstand anything. Quartz is extremely robust and long-lasting. You may use your quartz countertop for all of your kitchen needs without fear of ruining it in some way. Quartz is also resistant to heat. Instead of continuously worrying about how to care for your countertop, this helps you to sit back and enjoy it more.

It’s antibacterial:

Quartz is resistant to microorganisms because it is not porous. Granite, like any material, is porous and needs resealing and cleaning on a regular basis to prevent bacteria build-up. Quartz’s non-porous nature makes it an excellent choice for countertops in both the kitchen and the bathroom.

Stylish:

One of the most significant advantages of a quartz countertop is the variety of trendy options available. Quartz is available in an immensely diverse assortment of colors and patterns. It can have the appearance of marble, granite, or concrete. It comes in colours that other materials may not have, such as vivid blue.

Each quartz countertop is custom-made. This means that if you have unusual angles, curves, a waterfall edge, or any other unusual condition, quartz can be the best fit.

GET YOURSELF THESE BENEFITS

Finally, the countertop material that is best for you will be determined by a number of factors. Affordability, appearance, maintenance, and installation are all aspects to consider. Furthermore, countertop location is an important factor to consider.

If you’re looking for a new countertop for your kitchen, bathroom, or any other space, consider quartz. Quartz countertops are beautiful, long-lasting, low-maintenance, and very adaptable. You’ll have no issue selecting one that complements both your aesthetic and your way of life. Consider quartz countertops today to get these numerous benefits for yourself.

October 15, 2021 igstone Sinks and Vanity

Granite Sinks or Quartz Sinks: Everything You Need To Know

“**If you’re trying to decide between a quartz and a granite sink, you could be confused about which material is better**.”

QUARTZ VS. GRANITE SINKS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Sinks used to come in a limited range of styles and materials. Now you can design a sink out of almost any material you want! Quartz and granite sinks have both grown in popularity over the years, each providing a gorgeous, useful, and timeless addition to your home.

If you’re trying to decide between a quartz and a granite sink, you could be confused about which material is better. With so many options available to you and a number of circumstances at play, this is a decision you’ll want to think about carefully. If you’re unsure whether to acquire a quartz or granite sink, you’ve come to the right spot. We’ve put up a simple guide to help you choose between the two.

CHOOSING A SINK: QUARTZ VS. GRANITE

Quartz and granite are both attractive for a multitude of reasons. Quartz is typically composed of 95% natural materials and 5% polymer resins. It is available in nearly every finish you can think of and is renowned to be quite durable.

Granite, on the other hand, is entirely natural. It is sourced from quarries all over the world, cut to size, and polished to the finish of your choice.

Consider the following criteria while deciding between quartz and granite sinks.

ORIGIN

The origin of each stone indicates a lot about its natural qualities and how well it will hold up as a sink material. Since quartz is man-made, there are no natural contaminants to be concerned about. Its resins allow it to withstand the test of time, as it is quite durable.

As quartz is synthetic, it also comes in a wide variety of patterns and finishes, making it easy for nearly any family to choose a good aesthetic choice.

Consider granite if you want a more natural, earthy look. It’s 100% natural, and each cut has its own look and feel. Keep in mind that because granite isn’t tampered with, it has more impurities than quartz. This means you’ll need to spend in granite sink maintenance to ensure it lasts for years.

APPEARANCE

The appearance of quartz and granite sinks is one of the most important aspects for families deciding between the two. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to determining which design best complements the decor of your home. Because this is such a personal choice, the most crucial factor to consider is whether you like the material of your sink.

Man-made quartz requires the addition of a binding chemical to keep it together. Quartz has an advantage in terms of aesthetics because it is easier to find a pattern and color variation that suits your style. Whatever color or vision you have in mind for your quartz sink, there is a good chance that you may discover a decent alternative.

Granite, on the other hand, offers a sense of uniqueness that quartz does not. Because each piece of granite is unique, your sink will be tailored to your specific needs. If you value having as many natural features as possible in your home, granite may be the preferable sink material for you.

DURABILITY

You want to invest in a long-lasting sink material, so is granite or quartz more durable? In this area, quartz has an advantage because it is man-made and incredibly difficult to damage. Be careful setting hot pans on top of your quartz sink, however, as overheating can cause serious damage.

Granite is long-lasting sink material, although its porous nature makes it prone to stains and other damage. To avoid chipping, always be careful when placing heavy pans or things in your granite sink.

VERSATILITY

When comparing quartz versus granite sinks, price is obviously an important consideration. There is, however, no hard and fast rule to help you choose one stone over the other. Many factors come into play, including the type of quartz or granite you select, the size of your sink, and the cost of labour.

Quartz ranges in price from $80-$140 per square foot, while granite starts about $80 and can go as high as $175 per square foot depending on the variety.

MAKING YOUR CHOICE

Deciding between a granite and quartz sink is something that must be done only by you! Each material provides unique offerings and qualities to your space. The factors we’ve outlined can assist you in making the best option for you.

If you need more information or want to begin looking at stones, look no further than our options at Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. With years of experience and access to the most recent technology, our experts can guide you in the right direction.

Please contact us right away to discuss your upcoming project!

October 6, 2021 igstone Countertops, Sinks and VanityCountertop, Granite, Installation, Quartz, Sinks and Vanity, Toronto

Remodel and Install Countertops for your Kitchen or Washroom

Are you looking to remodel and install countertops for your kitchen or washroom? Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. is a top provider in Toronto for quartz, granite, marble, and onyx countertops. Since most people are working from home, homeowners are more eager to renovate their kitchens and bathrooms. When homeowners are looking to install quartz countertops in Toronto, many choose our services.

Our Team

The sales and support team at our location is fantastic at answering questions. In addition, they will walk you through the process for the proper stone selection for your project. We house many different pieces of quartz, granite, marble, and onyx at our location. The network of providers we choose is extensive for client selection. Some partners include Sio4, Olympia Stone, Ciot, Lucent Quartz. You can find more providers on our homepage.

In addition to a wide selection of stone, we also carry a sink and vanity collection. Our sinks and vanity collections are efficient and perfect for everyday use. For example, some sinks, such as granite, can withstand the heat of up to 550 degrees Fahrenheit and make perfect for a cook. Naturally, most of our sink collections have a rear positioned drain hole that maximizes usable bowl and cabinet storage space below. As well, most clients in Toronto will choose a sink and vanity package when having countertops installed. Ask the Imperial sales team about our collections of sinks and vanity.

Our work

Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. is pleased to be involved with residential and commercial projects that impact the community. You can view our project gallery by visiting the projects page and photo gallery page. All of our work is precisely done in-house. So when you choose to have your countertops installed in Toronto, make sure to visit our showroom and consult a professional! The most popular countertop installation performed with quartz. You will find lots of durabilities when choosing quartz, and long-lasting quality, guaranteed.

Testimonials given by our clients show that we are the top provider for countertop installations in Toronto. If you have had a positive experience with our services, we would appreciate a review. You can also sign up for the newsletters and promotions we send on the homepage. Receive a free quartz cutting board when you sign up, a gift from us.

Do you like to follow inspiring kitchen and bathroom renovations on Instagram? Our feed is filled with projects we have completed. Follow us on Instagram @imperialgraniteandstone.

September 13, 2021 igstone Countertops, NewsCountertop, Granite, Installation, Markham, Quartz

Countertop Installation in Markham

Are you looking for high-quality stone countertops and installation in Markham? Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. is a top-rated fabricator and installer in the Markham region. We specialize in sourcing the finest quality granite, quartz, marble, and onyx for all types of commercial and residential projects. You can view a wide selection of our stone products by visiting the collections tab or schedule an appointment to view the indoor stone showcase.

Homeowners trust us

We know firsthand at Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. that homeowners desire robust, practical, easy to maintain, and durable countertops. Granite is an undeniably classic material, and most homeowners prefer it to materials like tile, stainless steel, and marble for their kitchen countertops in Markham.

However, many homeowners and designers love quartz because it comes in various colours to fit any decor. So if you’re contemplating a kitchen remodel, it’s only natural that you’ll hunt for the latest kitchen and bathroom countertop materials on the market.

Friendly sales team

Our educated sales staff will assist you in making a more informed decision when renovating or remodelling your kitchen or bathroom. We can design and install low-cost granite and quartz countertops in Markham. Over the years, our crew has completed thousands of bathroom and kitchen countertop installation jobs. During the initial consultation, they will have a thorough discussion with you.

This brief dialogue will provide them with a clear understanding of your goal for the project. They will be there to help you every step of the way. Our professionals will ensure that you have all of the information you want to determine whether granite is the best countertop option for your home.

Our approach

We only use high-quality materials, and experienced countertop installers handle the kitchen countertop installation in Markham. This attention to detail, combined with our customer-focused approach, ensures that you get the most fitting countertops for your home. When it comes to remodelling your kitchen, we understand that clients want variety with materials they can choose from.

Contact us

Connect with us on social media to browse our latest granite and quartz installations in Markham. You can follow us on Instagram by clicking here.

Don’t hesitate to contact us at Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. if you have any questions regarding our quartz, granite, marble, and onyx countertops. All of our countertop installations are in Markham. You can reach us at (905) 513-6906 or fill out our contact form, and we will get back to you as soon as possible.

August 21, 2021 igstone AftercareAfter Care, How to, Maintenance

Maintenance Guide for Your Countertops

DAILY ROUTINE

You can properly maintain your stone by using water, dish soap, and paper towel or a damp sponge to absorb any spills after food preparation. If needed, use any non-abrasive cleaner such as Formula 409, Lysol, Windex, and Fantastic to wipe away excess. Be sure to dry the area thoroughly with a clean cloth.

TOUGH SPOTS

Leave any of the above cleaners to sit on the affected area for a few minutes;
Soak the affected area with pads of paper towels for 5 to 10 minutes;
Scrub the area gently with a non-scratch pad such as Scotch Brite pad in circular movement;
Rinse with clean water thoroughly;
Dry thoroughly.

For even tougher spots, use Soft Scrub Liquid Gel (with or without bleach). Leave the gel to sit on the affected area for a longer time and follow the same steps above. If needed, apply Windex streak-free as the final step to clean any gel residue.

REMOVING ADHERED MATERIALS

(gums, nail polish, paint, etc.).

Scrape the surface with a plastic putty knife or a razor. Quartz surfaces are tough and will not be harmed by razor edges.
Rinse with clean water thoroughly;
Dry thoroughly.
Any gray marks left by the blade can be removed with Soft Scrub Liquid Gel.
If necessary, use Windex streak-free to clean any gel residue.

CAUTION

Do not use abrasive scrubs. Instead, always use non-scratch pads such as Scotch Bride pad.
Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive oven and plumbing cleaners (Drano, Easy OFF, and Liquid Plumber). These chemicals will dull the surface finish.
Do not use products containing oils or powders because they leave a residue.
Do not use knives directly on the quartz surface. Instead, always use a cutting board.
Do not place hot pots, pans, or electric skillet directly on the quartz surface. Instead, always use trivets or hot pads. Extreme heat may cause thermal shock and crack the surface in the long term.
Minimize direct sun exposure to your quartz. Long-term exposure to direct sunlight may discolour the surface finish. Our quartz is only for interior applications.

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