Category Archives: Showroom

Need a kitchen sink and wondering why there are so many options?

Posted by ExquisiteStone on June 8, 2024

When renovating a kitchen or choosing fixtures for a new home, one of the decisions that might not seem major at first but has significant practical implications is the thickness of your stainless-steel kitchen sink’s metal. This is typically measured in gauge, with common options being 16-gauge and 18-gauge. Understanding the differences between these two can help you make an informed choice that balances durability, aesthetics, and cost. Here’s a detailed look at the pros and cons of 16-gauge and 18-gauge kitchen sinks.

What does “Gauge” mean?

In metal, the gauge refers to the thickness.  A lower gauge means thicker metal, so a 16-gauge sink is thicker than an 18-gauge sink. The thickness affects several aspects of the sink’s performance and durability.

16-gauge Kitchen Sinks

  • Durability: 16-gauge sinks are generally more durable than 18-gauge.  The extra thickness provides resistance to dents and physical damage, which is a plus for a busy home.
  • Noise Reduction: Thicker metal tends to absorb vibration better, which means less noise when you’re washing dishes.
  • Quality of Feel: A thicker sink often feels more solid and less ‘tinny’ when tapped or used, contributing to a perception of higher quality and robust construction.
  • Cost: Because they use more material, 16-gauge sinks are more costly than 18-gauge sinks. This can be a significant factor if budget constraints are tight.

18-gauge Kitchen Sinks

  • Cost-Effective: These sinks are typically less expensive than thicker models, making them a more budget-friendly option for homeowners.
  • Wide Variety:  Because 18-gauge sinks are more common, there’s usually a wider variety of styles and sizes available, making it easier to find one that fits your kitchen’s design.
  • Less Durable: Thinner metal can be more prone to denting and bending, especially under the impact of heavy kitchen use.
  • More Noise: An 18-gauge sink will generally be noisier than a 16-gauge one, as it is less capable of dampening the sound of running water and clanging dishes.

Making the Right Choice

The decision between a 16-gauge and an 18-gauge kitchen sink often comes down to personal preference and practical considerations like your budget and kitchen usage. If durability and quality are your top concerns a 16-gauge sink might be the best choice. However, if you’re looking for a cost-effective option and are willing to compromise slightly on durability and noise, an 18-gauge sink would suffice. 

Need more information about stainless-steel sinks?  Exquisite Stone stocks many options to fit any space from the basement wetbar to the kitchen to the coffee nook in the study.  Stop by today to check out our variety and get started on your next countertop project! 

Ancient Homeowners Also Wanted Stone Countertops

Posted by ExquisiteStone on May 14, 2024

Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, is renowned for its extraordinary preservation of daily life, art, and architecture. Among the well-preserved features are the splendid natural stone countertops that adorned the homes of Pompeii’s prosperous citizens. These countertops, crafted from materials like marble and granite, serve as a testament to the enduring allure and functionality of natural stone in interior design.

Pompeii Marketplace

The ancient Romans were masters of engineering and design, and their choices in materials were a testament to their sophistication. Natural stone countertops were highly favored in Pompeii for several reasons:

1. Aesthetic Grandeur: Natural stone countertops in Pompeii were often crafted from marbles like Carrara, which boasted exquisite veining patterns and a luminous surface. These countertops added a touch of opulence to the homes and reflected the social status of their owners.

2. Durability: The eruption of Mount Vesuvius buried Pompeii for centuries, and yet the natural stone countertops remained remarkably intact. This enduring quality testifies to the robust nature of these materials, which can withstand the test of time and the rigors of daily life.

3. Hygienic Properties: Natural stone easier to clean and maintain than other materials available at the time, making it an ideal choice for countertops. In an era where hygiene was of utmost importance, natural stone surfaces contributed to a healthier living environment.

Marble Installation at Pompeii

Natural stone countertops have a long history throughout the world, and our own modern selection choices are made with the same priorities as ancient peoples.  The durability, aesthetic features, and timeless elegance of natural stone endures through time all the way from 79 AD to today. 

Contact Exquisite Stone today for timeless countertop options!

You Have Natural Stone Countertops, Now You Should Seal Them

Posted by ExquisiteStone on March 19, 2024

Natural stone countertops such as granite, marble and quartzite are porous materials, meaning they have tiny openings and capillaries that can absorb liquids. Sealing is an essential protective measure to prevent damage due to daily wear-n-tear.

It sounds like an inconvenience, but treating natural stone with a penetrating sealer creates a protective layer that repels liquids, preventing substances like red wine, oils, and acidic foods from penetrating the stone and causing stains.

Steps to Properly Seal Natural Stone Countertops

1. CLEAN THOROUGHLY:  Before sealing, ensure your countertops are clean and free of any stains, dirt, or debris. Use a pH-neutral stone cleaner for the best results.

2. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SEALER:  Select a sealer based on the type of natural stone you have. Check out recommendations from Exquisite Stone here.

3. VENTILATE:  Adequate ventilation is essential when applying sealers to minimize exposure to fumes. Open windows and doors or use fans if necessary.

4. APPLY SEALER:  Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the sealer. Typically, this involves evenly applying the sealer in small sections and allowing it to penetrate the stone for the specified time.

5. BUFF & REMOVE EXCESS:  After the sealer has had time to penetrate, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towels to remove any excess sealer from the surface.

6. CURE:  Give the sealer ample time to cure and create a protective barrier. This can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day, so be patient.

7. MAINTAIN:  Reapply the sealer as needed.  Exquisite Stone recommends every 3 to 5 years for most materials but please contact the sales team with any questions.

Sealing natural stone countertops is a vital part of preserving their beauty and longevity. By taking the time to follow proper sealing procedures, you can ensure that your countertops remain a stunning focal point in your kitchen or bathroom for years to come. A little maintenance now will go a long way in protecting your investment and maintaining the timeless elegance of your natural stone countertops.  Contact Exquisite Stone for information about sealers and helpful tips.

Are These Countertops Made of Soap?

Posted by ExquisiteStone on December 13, 2023

Curious about this stuff called Soapstone?  Well, it is absolutely a stone, but it is not made of soap.  Soapstone, also known as steatite, is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of talc. Its rich history dates back thousands of years and spans across various cultures and continents. The use of soapstone for countertops can be traced to ancient civilizations, where its unique properties made it an ideal material for culinary and decorative purposes.

Soapstone’s story begins in ancient Egypt, where it was revered for its heat resistance and durability. Egyptian artisans carved soapstone into intricate statues, amulets, and sarcophagi.

During the Viking Age, soapstone gained prominence in Scandinavia. The Norse people recognized its exceptional heat retention properties, using soapstone to construct stoves, fireplaces, and, eventually, countertops. Soapstone countertops provided an ideal surface for food preparation, as they could withstand the heat of cooking fires.

As exploration and trade expanded in the 16th century, soapstone found its way into different parts of the world. In North America, Native American tribes used soapstone for various purposes, including cooking vessels, pipes, and artistic carvings. The Inuit people of the Arctic also employed soapstone for creating cooking pots and lamps.

Fast forward to the 20th century when soapstone experienced a revival in popularity. The Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements embraced soapstone for its aesthetic appeal. Architects and designers began incorporating soapstone countertops in kitchens and bathrooms, appreciating its unique veining, soft texture, and resistance to stains.

In recent decades, soapstone countertops have witnessed a surge in demand among homeowners and interior designers. Renowned for their natural beauty and practical benefits, soapstone countertops add elegance and charm to any space. They are heat-resistant, non-porous, and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for both modern and traditional homes.

Interested in exploring Soapstone for your next project? Contact Exquisite Stone today for more information!