Whether you are renovating your kitchen or bathroom, countertops are an important aspect of interior design. They significantly influence the aesthetics and functionality of a space. The role of a countertop often changes depending on the settings. A kitchen countertop must be heat and scratch resistant, whereas a bathroom countertop should be waterproof and resistant to chemicals. Moreover, what kind of material you choose for the countertop will set the tone for the entire design style, including the cabinet colors, and other elements.  

Choosing the perfect material for countertops is not an easy task; several factors must be considered. First comes durability. A countertop must be durable enough to withstand heavy use and daily activities. It should be impervious to scratching, etching, staining, and heat, contributing to the longevity of a space. Materials like quartzite, quartz, and granite countertops are widely popular for their inherent resilience. 

Second comes the aesthetic. Whether you prefer traditional or contemporary decor style, your countertop choice can be a game-changer for the overall aesthetic of your kitchen or bathroom. Countertop materials come in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes, allowing design enthusiasts to open their treasure trove of decor possibilities. From the timeless elegance of marble to the earthy charm of soapstone, stone countertops bring versatility to any design scheme.  

Maintenance comes third. Each stone has unique maintenance requirements. Some stones demand extra care, while others do not. If you have a busy lifestyle and don’t want to spend a lot of time removing stains from your countertops, quartzite, granite, quartz, and porcelain countertops are a great option.  On the other hand, if premium aesthetics are your priority and you do not mind a little maintenance, marble, travertine, and Dolomite countertops might just be the perfect choices.  

Ultra Stones is the one-stop solution for your endless “countertops near me” searches.  

We offer a myriad of countertop material options that can match your lifestyle and design requirements. Our inventory features an exclusive collection of over 600 natural and engineered stone options, showcasing a diverse array of exotic colors and patterns for your countertop selections. Find the perfect stone from our marble, granite, quartz, and quartzite real-time inventory. 

Marble countertops near me

The Art of Marble Countertops

Marble is one of the most coveted materials for countertops, owing to its timeless elegance and luxurious appeal. Being a metamorphic rock, marble slabs exhibit unique crystalline luster that can brighten up any space. Our exclusive selection of marble countertop surfaces includes a variety of more than 250 colors, from pristine white to soft beige, gray, and even vibrant reds, blues, and browns. Beyond its charming aesthetics, marble countertops offer excellent heat resistance, making them a perfect surface choice for cooking, alongside granite, quartz, and quartzite. Whether incorporated into modern, minimalist kitchens or lavish bathrooms, marble countertops effortlessly elevate the ambiance of any setting, instilling a sense of sophistication and refinement that endures through the ages. Experience the exquisite beauty of marble surfaces firsthand at Ultra Stones’ showrooms in New York and Philadelphia.

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Redefine Your Kitchen with these Amazing Benefits of Marble Countertops

Embodiment of Luxury

Marble countertops are often associated with luxury and timeless appeal. Their brilliant white background and subtle veining add richness to any setting, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere. Marble was used in various historical monuments across the globe because of their regal appearance. You also can elevate your kitchen with a tasteful blend of elegant and stylish marble countertops and transform your kitchen experience into a luxurious one. 

Available in a Wide Range of Colors

Even though white marble is most demanded among interior designers and homeowners, there is a wide range of colors and patterns available in marble including red, brown, green, blue, and purple. These bold hues in marble can make your kitchen bold and vibrant, making it stand out from the rest of your house.

Perfect for Baking

A marble surface is ideal for baking, especially if you like preparing pastries and chocolate. Since marble tends to remain cool, It provides an ideal temperature for keeping the butter on the dough cool and intact, making it easy to work with.

Available in Various Finishes

Marble can take various finishes. However, a polished finish is mostly preferred for marble countertops as it offers a beautiful glossy, and bright look. While a polished surface exudes a sense of glamor and luxury with its impeccable shine, honed and leathered marble surfaces look more warm and sophisticated. Moreover, the textured finish is great for camouflaging minor scratches or etches, adding to the durability of your countertops.

Excellent Heat Resistance

There you go! Marble’s exceptional performance against heat makes it a top choice for kitchen countertops. Marble remains unfazed in extreme heat, and does not lose its aesthetic or structural integrity. However, it is recommended to use hot pads and trivets to protect your marble countertops from cracking caused by sudden exposure to heat.

Now that you know the amazing perks of marble countertops, do you want to dive into a “marbleous” experience with us? If you are searching for marble countertops near me, check out Ultra Stones’s live inventory of exclusive marble surfaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How to clean marble countertops?

  • Dust and Wipe: Gently dust and wipe the surface with a soft cloth to remove loose dust particles.
  • Prepare Cleaning Solution: Mix a few drops of mild, pH-neutral soap with warm water. Soak a soft cloth into the soap solution and clean the surface thoroughly.
  • Rinse and Dry: Wipe again with a damp cloth to remove soap residue, then dry with a clean towel.
  • Avoid Harsh Cleaners: Avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners to prevent damage.

2. How to remove stains from marble countertops?

You can remove stains from your countertops by following three steps:

  • Prepare a thick paste of baking soda and water (or hydrogen peroxide for stubborn stains). 
  • Apply the paste over the stained areas and cover it with plastic wrap. Leave it overnight.
  • Remove the poultice the next day and wipe the area clean. Repeat the process if required. 

3. How to seal marble countertops?

  • Clean Thoroughly: Thoroughly clean the marble surface with a pH-neutral cleaner and let it dry completely.
  • Choose the Right Sealer: Choose the best-quality, penetrating sealer specifically designed for marble countertops. Consult with your installation company as to which sealer would be the best for your countertop. 
  • Apply the Sealer Evenly: Use a clean, dry brush to evenly apply the sealer in a thin layer.
  • Let It Absorb: Allow the sealer to completely penetrate the marble surface for the recommended time, which is usually 10-15 minutes.
  • Wipe Excess and Cure: Wipe away any excess sealer using a clean towel and allow the surface to cure for the duration specified in the product instructions, which is usually 24 hours.

4. How much are marble countertops?

Marble countertops are not always expensive. The price of marble countertop slabs varies from low to high depending on the quality, demand, and availability of the material.

5. How to polish marble countertops? 

  • Clean the Surface: Using a pH-neutral cleaner, thoroughly clean the marble countertop and dry it completely.
  • Apply Marble Polish: Apply a small amount of marble polish in circular motions with a soft cloth.
  • Buff Gently: Using a microfiber cloth, carefully buff the surface until the polish is uniformly distributed and a glossy shine appears.
  • Remove Excess Residue: Wipe any excess polish with a clean, damp cloth to avoid streaks.
  • Final Buff: Buff the marble countertop one more time with a dry microfiber cloth to improve the shine.
Quartz countertops near me

Quartz Countertops: A Durable & Functional Choice

Quartz countertops embody the amalgamation of beauty and practicality in modern interior design. Made with natural quartz crystals, resins, and pigments, the designs of our Ultra Quartz countertop surfaces are inspired by trending marble and other natural stones, with each slab exhibiting consistent hues and patterns. Ultra Quartz slabs, with their non-porous and solid surface, are resistant to stains and scratches, making them ideal for busy kitchens. With their marble-like charm and remarkable durability, quartz countertops stand as a versatile and enduring choice for any home or commercial space.

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Explore Quartz Countertop Colors

Uniform Appearance

In contrast to natural stones, quartz countertops look very uniform with colors and patterns distributed evenly across the surface. Every slab of quartz looks the same. For those who prefer a consistent and crisp look for their kitchen and bathroom, quartz is a perfect choice. 

Different Styles 

Quartz, being an engineered material, can be manufactured to have different colors and patterns. From warm beige, cream, and white hues to bold red, brown, blue, grey, and black, quartz can be made in any color possible. Since quartz was initially introduced as an affordable and durable alternative to natural stones, the patterns of most quartz are inspired by the exquisite patterns of premium marble surfaces. The vast and diverse color palette of quartz countertops allows design enthusiasts to create versatile aesthetics.

Superior Durability

Quartz surfaces are made up of 93% quartz crystals and 7% binders like resin and pigments, which are put under intense heat and pressure to achieve a strong and dense stone. As a result, quartz countertops show brilliant resilience against scratching and chipping. The stone is not likely to get scratched easily by chopping knives, making it a perfect countertop surface for busy kitchens. You can rest assured that your quartz countertop is strong enough to endure daily wear and tear.

No Pores, No Stains

One of the most amazing benefits of quartz countertops is that you do not have to worry about stains and etchings, thanks to their non-porous and chemically stable structure. You can simply clean your cooking spills with a pH-neutral soap water solution. Generally, quartz countertops do not develop etch marks from domestic acidic substances, making them a suitable choice for busy kitchens

Low Maintenance 

The reason many homeowners prefer quartz surfaces is because they are easy to maintain and do not require any extra attention. You can preserve the pristine look of a quartz countertop by simple routine cleaning with mild soap and water. In addition, quartz countertops do not require sealing. 

Price

While the price of quartz surfaces varies, they are still more affordable than high-end marble and other natural stones such as onyx, or quartzite. Quartz slabs are designed to imitate premium marble surfaces, making them perfect for those who want the same elegance and sophistication of marble without investing a fortune. 

Add a touch of sophistication and harmony to your interiors with quartz surfaces. If you are searching for the best quality quartz countertops near me, check out Ultra Stones’ eclectic collection of quartz slab colors.

FAQs

How to clean quartz countertops?

  • Prepare a solution of pH-neutral soap and water.
  • Apply the solution on your quartz countertop using a microfiber cloth and clean it thoroughly.
  • Wipe the surface completely dry with a microfiber cloth. 

How much do quartz countertops cost?

Quartz countertops come in varying price ranges. However, it is relatively low priced compared to other countertop options like marble, quartzite, and onyx.

How to remove stains from quartz countertops?

To remove stains, use a mixture of baking soda and water, scrubbing lightly with a soft brush. Finish by drying the surface with a clean, soft cloth to maintain the shine.

How are quartz countertops made?

Quartz countertops are manufactured with 93% quartz crystals bound together using 7% additives and pigments. The mixture is put under extreme heat and pressure to make solid and dense surfaces.

How thick is a quartz countertop?

The thickness of quartz countertops can vary. However, the standard thicknesses are 2 and 3 cm. However, it is possible to create 5 cm or more thick quartz countertops by performing 45-degree miter cuts. 

Quartzite countertops near me

Create Bold and Luxurious Designs with Quartzite Countertops

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock formed when sandstone underwent intense heat and pressure for decades. The unique mineral composition of quartzite countertops provides them with exotic hues and patterns, which makes them ideal for creating a visually compelling statement kitchen. Our inventory houses one of the finest grades of quartzite slabs available out there in terms of both aesthetics and durability. With its luxurious appeal and outstanding resilience, quartzite countertops stand as a testament to nature’s transformative forces.

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Explore Quartzite Countertop Colors

Brighten up Your Interiors with the Vibrant Hues of Quartzite Countertops

Gorgeous Aesthetics

Quartzite reigns supreme with its unmatched beauty, adding a new dimension to any setting. Quartzite countertop surfaces come in a variety of vibrant colors that can brighten your kitchen and bathroom. Their diverse range of patterns can elevate any design style. From rich red to ocean-like turquoise, it’s gorgeous hues and marble countertop like veins weave together to create captivating interiors. As a natural stone, each slab of quartzite has aesthetic variations, which allows for a variety of personalization options.

Mighty Strength

Apart from their catchy appearance, quartzite countertops exhibit unshakable strength and incomparable durability. They are hard enough to withstand scratches and their non-porous structure makes them resistant to staining, making quartzite surfaces a perfect choice for busy kitchens. Furthermore, the stone’s ability to endure high temperatures without being warped or discolored frees you from extra caution when placing hot pots and pans on the surface. Furthermore, you do not have to worry about staining your quartzite countertop as it does not absorb liquids, eliminating the risk of stubborn stains. The commendable strength and resilience of quartzite render it suitable for both indoor and outdoor kitchen countertops.

Low maintenance

One of the key advantages of quartzite countertops is that they require very minimal upkeep. Unlike other natural stones, quartzite is relatively simple to clean and maintain. Since it does not absorb liquids, you can easily clean up your cooking spills with a mild soap-water solution. Its inherent strength makes it naturally resistant to scratching, therefore, you do not have to be extra careful while cooking or worry about getting knife scratches on your countertop. Thus, you can preserve the beauty of your quartzite countertop for the longest time with very little effort.

Backlit Countertops

Some quartzite countertops are partly to fully translucent, allowing light to penetrate through the surface. Backlighting these translucent stones can dramatically improve the appearance of your kitchen, making it more attractive and elegant.

Are you planning to decorate your kitchen and bathroom with stylish and trending quartzite surfaces? If you are searching for exotic quartzite countertops near me, feel free to explore Ultra Stone’s exclusive quartzite inventory.

FAQs

How to clean quartzite countertops?

    • To clean quartzite countertops, wipe the surface with a solution of pH-neutral dish soap and warm water.
    • Avoid using abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals to prevent damage. Use a soft cloth to wipe the surface.
    • For stubborn stains, use a mixture of baking soda and water, scrubbing lightly with a soft brush. Finish by drying the surface with a clean, soft cloth to maintain the shine.

How to seal quartzite countertops?

Here are the steps to seal quartzite countertops:

Clean the Surface: Clean the quartzite countertops thoroughly with pH-neutral dish soap and warm water to remove dirt and grime. Next, allow the surface to dry completely before you apply the sealer.

Choose the Right Sealer: Select the right sealer specifically designed for your quartzite countertop. The sealer must penetrate the stone and create a protective layer against stains.

Apply the Sealer: Apply a small amount of the sealer to the quartzite countertop and spread the sealer evenly on the surface with a cloth, sponge, or soft brush. Ensure that all edges and corners are covered completely.

Allow It to Absorb: Let the sealer completely penetrate the stone for the time determined by the manufacturer. If the countertop starts getting dry before the specific time, apply more sealer to keep it wet.

Wipe-Off Excess Sealer: Once the sealer has been absorbed, wipe off any extra sealer with a dry cloth. Leaving excess sealer on the surface for a long time can result in a cloudy appearance.

Curing: Allow the sealer to cure following the manufacturer’s instructions, which is generally 24 to 48 hours. Do not place any object on the countertop during this time.

Is quartzite more expensive than granite?

Quartzite is typically priced higher than granite because the availability of quartzite is limited.

Is quartzite waterproof?

Quartzite with proper sealing tends to be resistant to water and moisture absorption.

Is Taj Mahal a true quartzite?

Yes, Taj Mahal is a true quartzite.

Porcelain Countertops for High-end Interiors

Porcelain is an engineered stone and a popular countertop material among homeowners. The stone is made from a mixture of Kaolin clay, silica, feldspar, and other minerals, which undergoes a very lengthy process of printing and heating before  turning into a solid and resilient slab. Porcelain countertops are prized for their rich  appearance; their colors and patterns are inspired by luxury marble surfaces.  Furthermore, the stone is highly resilient and impervious to external impacts, making it  suitable for high-traffic areas. At Ultra Stones, we offer a diverse range of trending  colors and patterns in our porcelain inventory. Elevate your kitchen and bathroom designs  with the best quality and gorgeous Kaolin and Atlas porcelain surfaces. 

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Explore Porcelain Countertop Colors

Design Luxurious Kitchen and Bathroom Spaces with  Breathtaking Porcelain Countertops 

An Ultimate Chic 

Porcelain slabs are designed to perfection, each material appears to be the twin flame  of its natural stone counterpart. The stone’s refined finish and flawless appearance add  an extra edge to any design setting. Porcelain countertop colors are available in both  warm and cool palettes, ranging from soft beige, and warm brown to moody green,  black, purple, and grey shades. Being an engineered stone, each slab showcases a  uniform distribution of colors and patterns throughout the surface, instilling a sense of  harmony and consistency in the ambiance.  

Resistance to Scratches and Stains 

Porcelain is a highly durable material. It is manufactured using advanced machinery to  ensure the end product can withstand all kinds of impact. Porcelain slabs and tiles are  so strong and durable that it is nearly impossible to scratch or stain the surface. In  addition, it can withstand high temperatures without getting affected, which means you  can put your hot pots and pans directly on the countertop. Even environmental impacts  such as UV rays, rain, and snow can not cause any damage to the stone, making it a  great option for outdoor applications.  

Hygienic Choice  

Porcelain is a non-porous surface, meaning it does not absorb any liquid. Thus, the risk  of growing mold or bacteria on the countertop surface is very low, which makes it a  hygienic choice for water-prone areas. 

Effortless Maintenance  

Maintaining porcelain kitchen countertops is no sweat. Since the material is dense, you  can easily clean up any spills in one sweep. Regular cleaning with a mild soap-water  solution is enough to keep the stone in mint condition for ages. Moreover, porcelain  countertops do not require sealing. No fuss! 

An Affordable Choice 

The superior aesthetic and unrivaled durability make porcelain a premium countertop  choice, rendering it more expensive than some of the other engineered stones.  However, it is a budget-friendly alternative to high-end marble surfaces, evoking the  same luxurious feel as marble.  

FAQs 

  1. Are porcelain countertops durable? 
    Yes, absolutely! Porcelain countertops are strong and resilient enough to withstand your  daily activities. They are resistant to heat, scratching, etching, and staining, making  them an ideal choice for indoor and outdoor kitchens. However, the stone can be susceptible to chipping from heavy impact, therefore, you must be mindful about not  dropping any heavy objects on the surface to prevent it from cracking or chipping. 
  2. How to Clean Porcelain Countertops?
    Cleaning porcelain countertops is an easy task. Following are some essential cleaning  tips:

    Regular Dusting and Wiping: 
    • Regular dusting can help keep your countertop dust-free.
    • Use a microfiber cloth to dust the surface daily.
    • Wipe your countertop with a damp cloth to remove any stains and spills.

    Mild Cleaning Solution:

    • Create a cleaning solution by adding a few drops of mild dish soap to warm water.
    • Dampen a microfiber cloth in the soapy water and gently scrub the surface.
    • Rinse the cloth with fresh water and wipe the countertop again to remove any soap residue.

    Easy Stain Removal: 

    • To remove stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water.
    • Apply the paste to the stained area and let it sit overnight.
    • Gently scrub the surface with a microfiber cloth, then rinse thoroughly with water.

    Avoiding Harsh Cleaners: 

    • Do not use abrasive cleaning materials or harsh chemicals to clean your porcelain countertop as they can scratch or damage the surface.
    • Use cleaners specifically designed for porcelain countertops, non-abrasive cleaners will not impact the stone’s appearance.
  3. Are Porcelain Countertops Expensive?
    Porcelain countertops can be expensive compared to other stones such as quartz countertops. But,  the price of porcelain countertops varies, ranging from low to high. Even though  porcelain surfaces imitate the look of luxury marble, they are far less expensive than  their marble counterparts.  
  4. Where to buy porcelain countertops?
    If you are searching for the best quality porcelain countertops near me, check out Ultra  Stones’ exclusive colors in porcelain surfaces to match your design style.  
  5. Can you put hot pots on porcelain countertops? 
    Yes, you can put your hot pots or pans directly on the porcelain countertop. High  temperatures can not affect the appearance or look of the porcelain surface.
Granite Countertops Near me

High-Quality Granite Countertops for Kitchens, Bathrooms & More

Granite countertops are prized for their unwavering durability and pristine charm. As an igneous rock, granite showcases exceptional strength, and resilience against scratches, stains, and heat, making it an ideal material for kitchen countertops. Our inventory boasts an impressive range of granite collections in brilliant colors and unique patterns for you to choose from. Let your kitchen interiors sparkle with granite countertops. 

Upgrade Your Kitchen with the Impeccable Strength and Durability of Granite Countertops.

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Explore Granite Countertop Colors

Possesses Incredible Strength

Granite is renowned for its unrivaled strength and durability. It is a much sought-after material for countertops due to its incredible quality to withstand daily wear and tear. Granite countertops are so strong and dense that they perform excellent against scratches, etches, and stains. They can easily last for decades without losing their natural luster or structural integrity.

Can Endure High Temperatures

Granite shows excellent resistance to heat, meaning granite countertops do not get structurally affected by exposure to high temperatures. It will not crack if you put your pots or pans straight out of the stove on the countertop. However, we do not recommend putting hot objects directly on the stone surface as sudden changes in temperature can result in thermal shock. It is better to use hot pads, and trivets to protect your granite countertop.

Offers Unique Aesthetic

Granite’s crystalline structure gives it a distinct granular appearance, in contrast to the veining found in marble and quartzite. The presence of certain crystals in granite gives the stone a nice sparkling appearance. Furthermore, granite comes in various shades including beige, brown, green, red, blue, black, grey, and so on. There are plenty of colors, patterns, and textures available in granite countertops to match any interior design style.

Easy to Maintain

Maintaining granite countertops requires no additional effort. Granite’s non-porous nature prevents liquids from seeping through the surface. Therefore, the chances of granite slabs getting stubborn stains are very slim. Regular cleaning with a neutral pH detergent and water is enough to preserve the pristine beauty of your granite countertop. Like any other natural stone, granite countertops require sealing once every year. Sealing works as an additional protection to the countertop. The ease of maintenance makes granite a favored material among homeowners.

A Hygienic Choice

Since granite is resistant to moisture, it does not allow the growth of bacteria, mold, mildew, or germs, making it a hygienic choice for food preparation spaces. For extra caution, you can clean your granite countertops with disinfectant wipes.

Versatile Applications

The exceptional durability of granite countertops makes them an ideal choice for various applications including indoors and outdoors. Granite is suitable for bar tops, fireplace surrounds, outdoor kitchens, and even flooring. Its unique aesthetic combined with superior strength allows interior designers and homeowners to create visually striking and practical spaces. If you are looking for the most durable granite countertops near me, check out our real-time granite inventory with over 250 colors for you to choose from.

FAQs

How to clean granite countertops?

  • To clean granite countertops, prepare a solution of pH-neutral soap and warm water.
  • Use a soft cloth to clean the surface with the solution.
  • Wipe the surface gently and rinse with clean water, then dry the surface with a soft clean cloth.
  • Avoid using abrasive cleaning products to prevent damage.
  • For stubborn stains, use a mixture of baking soda and water, scrubbing lightly with a soft brush. Finish by drying the surface with a clean, soft cloth to maintain the shine.

How much do granite countertops cost?

  • The price of granite countertop slabs varies. However, granite surfaces are less expensive than other materials like quartzite, marble countertops, and onyx.

How to seal granite countertops?

  • To seal granite countertops, you need to clean the surface thoroughly and allow it to dry completely.
  • Evenly apply a granite sealer using an applicator or brush and let the sealer penetrate the surface for the given period. Remove any excess with a clean cloth.
  • Allow the sealer to cure for the suggested period before using the countertop.

Can minor scratches on granite surfaces be repaired?

  • Chips or cracks on granite surfaces can be fixed using a color-matching epoxy or resin. Use quality products for best results.

How do I choose good-quality granite?

The quality of a granite slab can be determined by several factors:

  • The granite slab must not have any geological flaws ( like cracks, fissures, or rust infiltrations).
  • The colors of the slab should be distributed uniformly.
  • The granite stone should have a uniform appearance.
  • It should have a compactness of structure.