September 29, 2022 igstone Countertops, Granite, KitchenGranite, Kitchen Countertops, Leather Countertops, Markham

What are Leathered Granite Countertops?

Granite countertops are most likely associated with colour and toughness. Granite is renowned for both its exceptional strength and distinctive natural patterns. But it’s possible that you haven’t given granite’s texture much thought.

However, the texture of your countertops significantly impacts the overall appearance and atmosphere of your kitchen, living room, or other space where the worktops are the star. So let’s explore leathered, a more noticeable granite texture.

What are leathered granite countertops?

The matte surface option known as leathered gives your counters a rippling, “leathery” feel. A leathered surface, which is everything but smooth, accentuates the granite’s natural curves and ridges. There are numerous reasons to choose leather, even though it may not be the best option for everyone. Let’s discuss the advantages, disadvantages, and everything in between.

What are the benefits of leathered granite countertops?

Many people pick a leathered finish for their granite because the texture brings out the stone’s inherent colours. However, leathered finishes may not be the most popular countertop finishes. The rough treatment enhances the stone’s original texture, making swirls and hues appear more evident. Not to add, the brightness and inherent colours of the stone can be diminished by the sheen of other finishes.

Additionally, leather is adaptable. While polished surfaces have a distinctive appearance, you can choose how textured you want your leathered countertop to be. In addition, your textured table will stand out from the competition because most homeowners choose that traditional polished finish.

Lastly, textured counters are easier to maintain and more stain-resistant than other polished materials. The rough matte texture keeps messes from piercing through the delicate textiles rather than allowing spills and stains to do so. Matte finishes are ideal for a messy kitchen or bathroom since they block off the daily commotion. Leathered countertops must also be sealed less frequently than polished and honed finishes.

What are the cons of leathered granite countertops?

Contrarily, while leathered resists strong stains, the mess may be more challenging to clean up once dirt or spills ultimately accumulate. This is due to how readily dust and filth can get on the counter’s grooves and edges without being seen. In particular, if you’ve chosen a bolder textured design, it may be difficult to see and more difficult to wash clean against the rough texture. Likewise, your countertops will be more challenging to clean the more textured they are.

Similarly, leathered countertops scratch and chip more frequently than their polished counterparts. It is a little easier to see the scratches and chips when they do—however, there is nothing a powerful sealant can’t guard against.

Lastly, leathered finishes might be more expensive than shiny finishes because they require more processing time. However, over time you begin to save money because leathered finishes don’t need to be resealed regularly.

How do leathered granite countertops look their best?

Countertops covered in leather are a necessity for a rustic look. The muted hues complement darker hues and wood and other earthy design elements. However, leathered countertops may cause a space to appear smaller since they don’t reflect shine in the same way that polished or honed finishes do. Therefore, leathered granite looks better in larger areas with less clutter.

How do I get the leather look without leather?

If you want a leathered effect but don’t like granite, leathered quartz is an excellent alternative. Granite’s swirling pattern is akin to quartz, which also comes in various colours. As a result, numerous home aesthetics are complemented by leathered quartz. However, contemporary design homes benefit most from its use.

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The variety of options makes designing your countertop beautiful. Quartz is superior to marble and granite. Honed as opposed to polished or leathered. Although each version has advantages and disadvantages, leathered granite can be the most acceptable option for a kitchen, living room, or any other location that asks for a stunning natural stone if you enjoy a distinctive design with colour flakes that stand firm.

More queries about remodelling and countertops? Imperial Granite & Stone in Markham is constantly available to assist.

Working with us guarantees you’ll receive the countertop solution you want and adore because we fabricate countertops and remodel kitchens and bathrooms. Because we have the best collection of granite, quartz, and marble slabs on-site, you may choose from them with confidence. As part of any remodel, we specialize in fabricating, distributing, and installing the highest-quality stone countertops. We have more than 10+ years of experience and a high level of client satisfaction.

By calling us at (905) 513-6906 or coming to our location, you can immediately speak with a design consultant and receive the free countertop product and remodelling service you deserve.

Markham Countertop Installation for Kitchens and Bathrooms

April 2, 2022 igstone Countertops, Granite, QuartzCountertop Installation, Granite, Quartz

Markham Countertop Installation — What You Can Expect

If you’ve never installed a countertop before, you probably have no idea what to expect during the procedure. You could even be apprehensive about it. However, quartz and other countertops are a significant investment. The team at Imperial Granite & Stone has been performing Markham countertop installation for over ten years.

Before you make a final selection, read this blog post, Three Tips For Choosing Stone Countertops In Your Kitchen, and then read on to learn what to expect as you go through the process.

Plan Ahead of Time For The Installation

Make sure workers have a clear passage to carry the quartz slab. Because quartz is so heavy, you’ll want to make it as simple as possible for them to get into your kitchen. If you have children, make other plans for them on the day of the countertop installation. At the same time, observing the working environment, if there is any furniture or carpeting in the way of the workers manoeuvring the quartz. In that case, you should cover it to protect it from dirt or damage.

Get Rid of Your Old Countertops

Before the team can install the quartz countertops, they must remove the old ones. The Imperial Granite & Stone pros provide these ideas for pulling out your old countertops and sink if you want to save money by doing the demo yourself.

Placing The Quartz

When the workers have the countertops on the cabinets, they will use an epoxy that is either transparent or neutral to cement the pieces together (if there is more than one). Attachment blocks that have been appropriately created will secure the quartz to the cabinets.

Creating The Backsplash

Most people want to continue the quartz up the wall for the backsplash. After the countertops are in position, the workers will install them, making any necessary changes. Finally, they’ll use clear or neutral epoxy to seal the joints, just like they did for the main countertop.

Cleaning Up After the Installation

Workers will clean up excess epoxy and seal the counters once the stone has been secured. However, even with the cleanest and most courteous workers, there will be some dust to clean up after the project.

Our experienced and courteous staff will give you all the information you require to begin your project. In addition, we will be accessible to answer all of your questions regarding your Markham quartz countertop from the initial call through the final installation.

Imperial Granite & Stone can provide you with whatever you require. Our skilled staff has provided exceptional and customized natural stone services to consumers around the Markham area for over ten years. Call us at (905) 513-6906 or stop by our showroom at 150 Ferrier Street in Markham from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

January 29, 2022 igstone Countertops, Granite, Kitchen, Marble, QuartzGranite, Installation, Marble, Quartz, Stone Countertops

Three Tips For Choosing Stone Countertops In Your Kitchen

Choosing what material to use for your brand-new stone countertops is one of the most challenging decisions when renovating and designing your kitchen. Because countertops are generally one of the more expensive kitchen purchases, it’s critical to make an informed decision.

So, what are the three guiding principles for selecting the ideal stone countertops for your kitchen?

First, set a budget; you don’t want to fall in love with custom marble countertops to find out they’re out of your budget! Second, research your options, such as granite and quartz, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Third, figure out what you want your kitchen to look like; do you want it to be modern? Are you planning on cooking often? Different stones are better for different usage levels, with many different looks and styles to choose.

Budget

Creating a budget is arguably the least enjoyable and challenging part of any repair or construction project. While complex and time-consuming, creating a budget for your kitchen countertops is essential. It will save you a lot of headaches in the long run.

Because stone countertops, such as granite and quartz, are high-end products, they are frequently the most expensive kitchen additions. It’s devastating to fall in love with beautiful cream quartz to discover that you can’t afford it.

Research

Countertops made of stone, such as granite or quartz, are an investment. Granite, for example, is a more economical and long-lasting option. Still, the countertop must be sealed once a year to maintain durability. Marble is a classic material that will appeal to future home purchasers, but it is challenging to keep and maybe more damaged by acidic liquids.

Quartz is hard, non-porous, and available in a wide range of hues and styles; however, it is heat sensitive. While any stone countertop will increase the value and attractiveness of your house, it’s critical to select the perfect material for your lifestyle and budget.

Your Kitchen’s Purpose

The final point to remember is to make plans for the kitchen of your dreams. While marble has a beautiful appearance, granite may be a better option for your high-traffic kitchen. Do you cook on vacations and keep your kitchen primarily for the show? In that situation, durability might not be an issue.

Do you want a chef’s kitchen with all the bells and whistles? First, make sure the countertop material you choose can withstand the amount of use your kitchen receives! While quartz’s adaptability allows for various designs, you may not need to pay the higher price if another stone can handle your lifestyle.

Of course, once you’ve set your budget, investigated stone selections, and settled on your kitchen’s primary purpose, the fun part begins! Now you’re ready to choose your colour, cut, and finish. With the high quality of marble, granite, and quartz countertops, there is always a stone that will fit into any design, regardless of whatever stone you choose.

Stone Countertops Conclusion

Visit us at our Markham showroom for the best assortment of granite, quartz, and marble countertop solutions. Imperial Granite & Stone Ltd. has produced stunning kitchens and bathrooms throughout Ontario for over ten years. Finding the right countertop option is crucial if you’re thinking about remodelling your kitchen, and our designers can assist you.

We specialize in granite, marble, quartz, and porcelain, and our quality, service, and delivery are unsurpassed. So for a free countertop consultation, give us a call today!

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 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.