Custom Royal Countertops and Tile LLC

Best Countertop Materials in the Market

Installing a countertop in your kitchen is a great way to enhance the aesthetic levels of this space as well as improve overall functionality. However, it’s essential to ensure that the option you choose matches your practical needs and doesn’t only look good. Many people tend to be swayed by the appearance of a countertop’s design and tend to forget about its actual capability as a worktop. 

There are multiple elements to consider when it comes to identifying functional Countertops but at the top of that list is the primary material used for its construction. This aspect plays a significant role when it comes to determining suitability for a particular environment. Some of the best options available in this category include: 

Granite Countertops 

Exotic stone has progressed in leaps and bounds in terms of popularity and they have become a common feature with residential countertops. Granite is popular with modern designs because of its availability and wide selection of options. This natural stone offers multiple hues and veins across its surface, instilling a level of uniqueness with each slab. It’s also impressively durable and resistant to scratches and stains – making them an excellent option for an active workspace. With the right maintenance and care, granite counters can last an average of 50 years. The actual longevity will depend on aspects such as its quality, type, and grade. 

Quartz Countertops 

Quartz is another popular counter alternative that has taken over the remodeling market in recent years. Although it’s a tad bit more expensive than its granite counterpart, it’s also more durable. Studies have reported that this material is one of the hardest substances available, while its great abundance means that it’s easily available. Quartz is generally composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2) bonded by oxygen, forming a crystalline stone that ranges between different colors from milky white to light pink to midnight black. Many manufacturers grind quartz particles before bonding them with resins to enhance their durability. As such, most quartz countertops fall under the category of engineered stone. Quartz boasts the same longevity as granite and can last for over 5 decades with proper care. 

Butcher Block Countertops 

Butcher block countertops are significantly more affordable than exotic stone but also feature impressive levels of durability. These wooden fixtures are made from multiple species but most suppliers are partial to hardwoods such as oak, maple, and walnut because of their natural durability. Softwoods like pine and poplar can also be implemented with these counters but are less durable than their hardwood counterparts. They can also be manufactured from reclaimed wood, making them an eco-friendly solution. Depending on the species and quality of the wood, butcher block counters can last for over 30 years with proper maintenance. It should be mentioned that this option is less durable than exotic stone and features higher maintenance needs than their pricier countertop alternatives. However, these maintenance activities will not require herculean efforts to accomplish. You can simply wipe down the surface with warm water …

Best Countertop Materials in the Market Read More »

Finding the Right Contractor for Your Countertop Installation

One of the primary issues to consider when undertaking a countertop installation project is whether to hire a professional to get the job done or handle the venture as a DIY. Contrary to popular belief, a do-it-yourself project doesn’t always represent the most cost-effective solution. Deciding between a contractor or relying on your skills isn’t something to be taken lightly. In many cases, it’s easier to transfer the responsibility to an experienced party with the right tools and know-how to guarantee results. 

Whether you’re dealing with Granite Countertops or butcher blocks, hiring an established contractor is crucial to your chances of success. Some of the issues you should keep in mind when choosing a contractor include: 

Licensing 

According to Jackson Wyoming statutes, all contracting firms are required to have at least one person in their employ with a master certificate of qualification (COQ) card related to the practice license acquired. Such licenses can only be considered valid while the cardholder is an employee of the business. This means that while any individual can manage contracting firms, their firm’s license can only be valid if they have one or more people in their workforce with a registered COQ card. Having the lead contractor you’ll be working with be one of the company’s cardholders is recommendable when looking to ensure chances of success. The general contracting licenses available in Jackson, Wyoming include Class A for general work, Class B for commercial and multi-dwelling residential projects, Class Br for non-structural work, townhouses, and Class C for one and two-family houses as well as access buildings. 

Conducting Face-to-face Interviews 

Because you’re going to be working with your contractor for an extended period, meeting them beforehand is recommended before committing to any binding agreement. It’s worth noting that the person you initially consulted about your project might not be the same person who’s assigned to the venture. Many online commercial platforms have developed instant messaging applications managed by AI systems. However, the potential working relationship you’ll have with the foreman can affect the overall experience connected to the project. A poor working relationship can lead to fragile egos, testy moods, and small disagreements that will consistently delay progress – potentially enhancing the expenses involved.

Focus on Experience 

The kind of countertop you opt for might also help you decide on a suitable alternative. If you’re intent on Granite Countertops, for instance, finding a contractor with experience in exotic stone is a primary prerequisite that should be included in your search. This particular material isn’t only more expensive than many of its other counterparts but can be quite difficult to cut and shape with accuracy. As such, individuals with little experience in this sector represent a higher chance of mistakes. It’s also important to ask for recent references connected to your particular needs to ensure their capability. Some contractors may be comfortable lying about their skill levels regarding a project if there’s a risk of them losing out on a client. 

For reliable, high-quality …

Finding the Right Contractor for Your Countertop Installation Read More »

Countertop Installation on a Budget

Installing a countertop in your kitchen can bring about massive changes if handled appropriately. One of the elements that make many homeowners a bit hesitant when it comes to this addition is the potential expenses involved. However, there are several strategies one can implement when looking to undertake this project with a limited budget. Some effective ways you can mitigate the costs of your countertop installation include: 

Keeping the Design Simple 

There are numerous Jackson WY Countertops available in the market and the design you choose can have a direct impact on the overall budget expended. Integrating a straightforward approach with any bespoke model you might choose can significantly lower your costs. Simple designs like concrete with no additional frills will also allow you to take the project up as a DIY – negating additional labor expenses in the process. If you’re intent on adding a countertop with upgrades such as sockets, a sink, or an extra cooking area – the expenses involved with including these features into the design will also significantly raise the final price. You can also choose to replace your bespoke solutions with mass-produced alternatives provided at wholesale prices. 

Scour the Market for Deals 

According to Fortune Business Insights, the countertop industry is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.8%, forecasting the industry’s value to surpass $100 billion by 2027. This reflects the massive competition that’s present in the Jackson WY Countertops market. Taking your time to go through the contractors available in your region is a simple but effective way of identifying seasonal deals and payment plans that suit your particular financial needs. Purchasing your supplies during the off-season such as late fall or early winter is a good strategy when looking for discounted rates, as most people tend to do their remodeling during the warmer times of the year. This means that more suppliers will be willing to offer their products at lower prices during the colder months. 

Picking the Right Materials 

Although identifying an affordable countertop might seem like a straightforward solution to managing your budgetary woes, implementing this strategy is not as simple as one might think. The worst mistake a buyer could make when considering this approach is targeting the cheapest offer available in the market. In such cases, the adage you get what you pay for should serve as a warning. Instead of focusing on the price of a counter, one should concentrate on the value for money on offer. Composite wood, for instance, might be significantly more affordable than granite countertops – but it doesn’t last anywhere near as long as exotic stone. As such, you might need to replace your countertop every 10 to 15 years when working with composite countertops, whereas granite can last for over five decades. Exotic stone also exhibits impressively higher levels of durability when compared to many alternatives, reducing the level of maintenance needed for upkeep. 

We offer a wide selection of countertop solutions at affordable rates, so call …

Countertop Installation on a Budget Read More »

Choosing a Suitable Countertop Design

The countertop represents one of the major fixtures of a kitchen and plays a primary role in influencing the overall layout of this space. There are multiple aspects to consider when installing this unit, and different homes will require different solutions when looking to find a suitable counter to meet their particular needs. Your final choice will influence the overall aesthetics of this project. It’s essential not to rush through the process when considering your options. 

Some of the things you should keep in mind when looking at different countertop designs include: 

Primary Materials 

There are multiple options to choose from when looking at suitable countertop materials. The best solution for your needs will depend on aspects such as your budget, living conditions/kitchen activity, and personal taste. Jackson WY Granite Countertops, for instance, have become popular with modern kitchens looking to instill a sense of classic elegance with their approach. Butcher block countertops, on the other hand, are a better option when dealing with an active kitchen setting involving a lot of sharp edges, friction, and hot surfaces. They’re also more flexible than their granite counterparts in terms of style and appearance. 

Installation Process 

The budget involved with your countertop will be influenced by matters such as the price of the material and labor expenses. Different counters will feature varying installation processes, which is a primary influence on the cost of labor. Concrete countertops, for instance, will require a contractor with experience in creating and setting molds. Individuals working with Jackson WY Granite Countertops should have experience with cutting exotic stone, as well as the tools necessary to accomplish this objective. Several ready-made composite solutions n the market represent an excellent solution for homeowners who would like to take a DIY approach. These counters are mass-produced and are generally designed to fit over most base cabinets. 

Maintenance Needs 

Many homeowners don’t tend to consider maintenance requirements when choosing a countertop. However, it’s worth noting that these requirements involve repetitive expenses that will need to be factored into your overall budget when integrating this fixture into your home. Glass countertops, for example, might offer some of the best aesthetics available in the market, but are impractical for kitchen use due to the maintenance requirements involved with such an environment. Apart from the usual bumps and scrapes this fixture will be subjected to, you will have to be extra careful when dealing with glass alternatives because of the fragility involved with the material. Softwoods are also not recommended as good options for individuals who live close to the sea because of the levels of salt and humidity available in such atmospheres. This will enhance maintenance and replacement costs. 

Functionality 

Another element few homeowners consider when purchasing a countertop is its intended purpose. There are multiple designs available in the market, but not every solution will match your particular needs. If you plan on using the fixture as an additional seating area, opting for a design that focuses on width over …

Choosing a Suitable Countertop Design Read More »

Glass vs. Porcelain. Vs. Ceramic for Bathroom Tile Installation

Tile installation has risen in popularity in the past decade or so as a result of its versatility, reliability, and wide set of aesthetics. These fixtures have been used for a myriad of purposes and in various residential rooms, but their presence has arguably been more prevalent in bathroom projects compared to other spaces. If you’re looking for an effective means of transforming your bathroom without spending a small fortune, a tiling renovation might just be what you need. 

Some essential aspects to consider when working on a bathroom Tile project include;

Porcelain vs. Ceramic Tiling 

In a report published by the research website Statista, the USA sold over three billion square feet worth of porcelain and ceramic tiles in 2020. These two alternatives are commonly viewed as siblings due to the myriad of similarities they have with their attributes. They also represent the best option for areas such as bathrooms because of their water-resistance features. One of the primary ways of differentiating between porcelain and ceramic is through water absorption rate. Porcelain will absorb 0.5% or less water in the environment while its ceramic counterparts will absorb more. However, both options feature impressive levels of water resistance, making them ideal solutions for areas with high levels of moisture. 

In simple terms, porcelain is your best shot when you’re looking to ensure high quality and durability with your results. Porcelain involves the addition of feldspar and sand and is manufactured with much finer clay, allowing for a denser and less porous material. Its brittle texture will also make it harder to break which is great for a household with lovely but rowdy toddlers. They come in a variety of colors, hues, and textures – with multiple anti-slip designs offering effective solutions for homeowners who would like to enhance safety levels with their Tile installation project. 

Alternative Glass Tiles 

Individuals looking to instill a more modern feel with their remodel can forgo the traditional porcelain and ceramic approach for glass tiling. This alternative offers a wide variety of attractive options and has become a popular choice for individuals seeking to integrate an oasis atmosphere with their bathroom. As such, hues of blue and green are the most sought alternatives, but there is a wider variety to choose from should you have your eye on another color. Acquiring tiles made from recycled glass is not only a cheaper alternative but represents an eco-friendly solution that reduces your carbon footprint. Glass tiles are arguably just as non-porous as porcelain alternatives, making them a practical solution for this part of your home. 

Glass tiles will need regular cleaning compared to porcelain or ceramic tiles and should be wiped down at least once a day. Luckily, they’re easy to maintain, and all you’ll need is a bottle of window cleaner and a clean cloth. It’s also worth noting that despite the aesthetic appeal available with this alternative, it’s never advisable to integrate it underfoot – even with additional anti-slip solutions after their installation. The risk …

Glass vs. Porcelain. Vs. Ceramic for Bathroom Tile Installation Read More »

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Tiles

One of the primary elements individuals need to consider when undertaking a tile installation project is the best option for your project. There are numerous alternatives to consider in this category, but porcelain and ceramic are arguably miles ahead of the rest in terms of market share and popularity. These two options have been featured in millions of home remodeling projects around the world because of their several attributes. 

Although they might look similar, porcelain and ceramic are not the same. Some of the aspects you should keep in mind when considering porcelain and ceramic with your Jackson WY Tile Installation include.

Composition 

One of the primary elements that categorize a tile as ceramic or porcelain according to the Tile Council of North America (TCNA) and the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) is the ability to absorb water. Porcelain absorbs less than 0.5% of water in the environment, while ceramic alternatives will feature higher absorption rates. This is due to how ceramic and porcelain tiles are produced. The addition of sand and feldspar makes the composition denser than its ceramic alternative which is generally made from brown, white, or red clay. Ceramic tiles are also fired at a lower temperature than porcelain, making them less dense and more porous. 

Appearance 

Multiple studies have shown that porcelain and ceramic tiles will generally have a similar resemblance to the inexperienced eye. This is especially true when both are given a glazed finish to enhance their water resistance. For those with a keener sight into detail, porcelain generally features a smoother texture than its ceramic counterpart, allowing for sharper designs on the surface. Porcelain also tends to maintain consistency of shading and hue, while lower grades of ceramic might slightly vary from one tile to the other, generally in a very minimally detectable way. Porcelain is also denser than ceramic tiles because of its composition, meaning it’s heavier than its counterpart. It’s also more brittle than ceramic tiles, which one can usually tell by knocking lightly on the surface. Porcelain will tend to feel harder and give off a crisp but rigid texture. 

Maintenance 

The other element where ceramic and porcelain share close similarities are maintenance requirements. Both are impressively durable for their price range and can be implemented indoors and outdoors. Choosing a tile with a glazed finish is crucial in enhancing the longevity of your installation. A glazed surface is a feature with most porcelain tiles but you might need to double-check for its presence in lower-grade ceramic tiles. Both tiles will require regular cleaning to prevent the accumulation of debris and weakening of bonding agents. This can be easily accomplished with a quick sweep and mopping up with warm water and soap. Pressure washing your tiles isn’t generally recommended as it can tend to loosen individual units after some time. Stubborn stains can be handled with a hard bristled brush and some vinegar. If the stain proves difficult to remove you can cover it with a paste of …

Ceramic vs. Porcelain Tiles Read More »

Tile Installation on a Budget

According to a report published in Statista in 2019, the rate of tile consumption in the market was forecasted to grow in a gradual but consistent positive trajectory. This was due to the increase in the popularity of this decor solution in both commercial and domestic settings. By 2021, a Statista report published by researcher M. Garside stated that the worldwide consumption of tile textiles had reached an astonishing 18.2 billion square meters. 

Although the popularity of Jackson WY Tile installers has risen in stock in recent years, clients are still concerned about the potential expenses involved when undertaking such a venture. Some effective ways you can initiate a tile installation on a budget include:

Affordable Material Alternatives 

There are numerous options to choose from when it comes to tiling materials. Porcelain and ceramic tiles are arguably two of the more popular options available in the world, with millions of units sold each year. The average cost of porcelain and ceramic tile installation in the USA depends on several aspects such as its placement and the grade involved. Exterior installations can cost between $14 and $80 per square foot, while interior projects average between $13 and $60 per square foot. It should be noted that these numbers include additional expenses such as labor and other logistics. Wooden tiles cost an average of $3 to $6 per square foot, depending on the type of lumber involved. The overall cost will total between $10 to $18 per square with the addition of labor. Reclaimed wood can be sourced at $2 to $4 per square foot. It’s essential to note that the kind of lumber you choose for your tiles will play a significant role in their longevity. Opting for hardwoods is recommendable when working on a floor tiling project. 

Source your Supplies 

Although undertaking a DIY approach with an extensive project is not advisable without prior experience, sourcing your supplies can be a good way to bring the overall cost down. Looking for specific categories like designs that are now considered outdated and have been discontinued and orders that were produced and never delivered can be a great strategy if you’re willing to mix and match your options. You can also target direct suppliers who offer wholesale prices for their products. As long as you have enough time on your hands and are willing to keep an open mind, you’re likely to come across multiple solutions that suit your particular needs. It’s also important to steer away from bespoke solutions and target mass-produced options. Customized solutions are always going to represent a significant investment when looking for quality, while production tiles from established manufacturers maintain an acceptable standard without raising their prices. 

Consider the Most Appropriate Size 

The particular dimensions involved with your Jackson WY Tile project can also play a significant role in the overall expenses. Generally speaking, the cost of larger tiles such as 24X24 per unit is more expensive than alternatives such as 12X12. However, buying smaller tiles in …

Tile Installation on a Budget Read More »

What to Consider with a Tile Installation Project

There are numerous alternatives available when it comes to home renovation projects, and one that has maintained popularity for decades is tile installation projects. This approach offers a multitude of solutions as its versatility ensures it can be implemented in almost any area of the house. Whether you would like a section of Michaelangelo’s Sistine chapel on your ceiling or are looking for an elegant quartz accentuation for your kitchen – there’s likely a tiling project to meet your needs. 

Some of the major elements you’ll need to consider with a Tile Installation project include: 

DIY vs. Hiring a Professional 

One of the first elements you’ll need to consider when looking to implement a tiling project is whether to handle the project as a DIY or have a professional address the venture on your behalf. Firstly, it should be stated that any major project involving significant sections of the house you’re working on should be addressed by a professional no matter your prior experience. This rule of thumb holds true especially when the tiling project is connected to a commercial venture. If you’re working on smaller areas of your house, approaching the matter as a DIY might not come with very dire consequences. It should be noted that in situations like these, practice makes perfect, so having someone with some sort of expertise on the subject is recommended.

When taking on a DIY project, you and/or your renovation partner should preferably have some experience with similar projects in the past, as well as access to a majority of the tools needed to handle the tiles. You can also choose to rent instead of buy any tools you don’t have to mitigate costs. Installing a backer board is crucial in ensuring the tiles are laid on a flat surface. A popular alternative in this category is a thin composite of fiberglass mesh and concrete. It’s essential to ensure the backer boards are cut to ensure they fit just above the studs and joists. It’s also essential to caulk the edges of the wall and let the tiles lie for at least 12 hours before walking over them. 

Tile Installation Adhesive vs. Concrete Mortar 

The second crucial element to consider is what bonding agent to use with your tiles. The two primary options available in this category are chemical adhesives and concrete mortar. Your final choice will depend on several factors, including experience and any planned reinstallations in the near future. Cement has long been the traditional option for installers around the world, as it’s easily sourced and more affordable. 

Adhesive agents, however, are just as reliable and easier and cleaner for amateurs to use. It’s also easier to handle when working on a reinstallation. Settling for adhesive bonding agents is also advisable for interior decor projects considering the potential debris involved with concrete. Mixing concrete also requires a level of know-how to acquire the right ratio of cement and water to ensure it forms an effective bonding agent. Most adhesive …

What to Consider with a Tile Installation Project Read More »

Affordable Tiling Solutions in 2023

Investing in a tile installation project is a great way to enhance the aesthetics of your home and boost its potential resale value. If you’re looking to initiate an extensive project with your installation, finding an effective way of mitigating the potential costs involved is crucial when working with a restricted budget. 

Some useful tips you can implement when working with a limited Tile budget include: 

Peel and Stick Alternatives 

One of the most straightforward ways of maintaining a low budget with a tile installation project is opting for the classic peel-and-stick approach. These kind of tiles are arguably one of the more affordable alternatives in the market, and the introduction of 3D solutions have allowed for numerous options when it comes to artistic designs. Depending on the quality of the product, this option can last between 5 and 20 years. It’s crucial to remember that longevity will be affected by elements such as the environment, level of foot traffic involved, and quality of the product. 

Restricting Square Footage Covered

Another direct means of mitigating your potential expenses with a tiling project is limiting the actual coverage involved. It’s worth noting that you can install a tiling design that utilizes its surroundings without necessarily having to spread itself across a significant area of the space. You can implement a walkway to the house with a criss-cross design that features manicured patches in between. You can also choose to use your tiling setup as a centerpiece by placing it in the middle of the intended space, implementing a bright mosaic design that pops out from its background. If you have more tiles to spare you can choose to implement your tile installation centerpieces on the four corners of your space instead of just the middle.  

Scour the Market for the Right Opportunity 

As simple as it sounds, taking the time to go through multiple opportunities in the market before making a final decision is crucial to your chances of success. Centering your search around wholesale providers, for instance, is an advisable strategy as they are guaranteed to supply their products at a lower fee which is then hiked up by retailers in the market. Seeking opportunities such as Tile clearance sales is another useful prerequisite that can be used in your search when seeking affordable solutions. It’s essential that these offers, however, come from established providers to ensure you’re not being conned into purchasing subpar fixtures. Many contractors tend to offer their exterior products on sale during colder periods such as late autumn and winter. 

Mix and Match Different Tiles 

If you’re working on an extensive area you might want to think about mixing and matching different options to suit the area being covered. Choosing bright-colored porcelain tiles for your bathroom, for instance, will be significantly cheaper than exotic stone but will still be suitable for areas with light traffic and regular exposure to high moisture levels. Wooden or composite tiles are also a great option for the lounge area, while …

Affordable Tiling Solutions in 2023 Read More »

Identifying a Reliable Tiling Contractor

Hiring a contractor is always an advisable approach to take when seeking to ensure quality results. Choosing the right candidate for your needs is not always as straightforward as some might think. There are numerous below-average service providers or straight-up con men looking for an unwitting homeowner to swindle out of their hard-earned funds. Knowing what to expect from an established Jackson WY Tile Installation contractor can help you separate the wheat from the chaff when looking for a reliable service in your region. Some effective ways of identifying a reliable contractor include: 

Always Insist on Physical Offices 

Opting for candidates with an established physical location can be a good place to start when seeking a reliable contractor. Many con men will not go to the absolute extremes when seeking to develop a temporary profile and as such will likely not take the time to rent out a set of offices. Confirming your candidates’ headquarters will also give you a firsthand experience of what to expect from their potential services. It should not be hard to get information regarding office location and operational hours when dealing with an established service provider. The office should be big enough to accommodate their workforce as well as store their equipment, as well as represent a professional setting.

Ask for a License 

All valid contractors should be registered with the local administration that governs their area of operations. Jackson WY Tile Installation contractors, for example, should be registered with the local Jackson authorities. Contractors can accomplish this by logging onto the government’s online platform and filling in the necessary registration forms. The type of licensing involved will also determine their capabilities in terms of services provided. A Class Br license, for instance, will limit the number of areas they can work on when compared to a Class B alternative. A General Contractor Class A license, on the other hand, allows for the repair, construction, and alteration of any building. Your contractor will also need a plumbing, gas, and electric license to address any of these features with their installation. Finding individuals with a Class A license and above is recommended when dealing with an extensive tile installation project. You can generally find out the kind of license a candidate has by asking to see their Certificate of Qualification (COQ). You can also confirm license numbers offered by contractors through several online databases provided for this purpose. 

Request Verifiable References 

It’s crucial to look into the past few projects completed by a candidate in the past year or less. These projects must have been completed in under a year, as any older references are not a fair estimate that accounts for any potential change in the workforce. The contractor should be able to give you at least four to five references that you can personally contact. Always make a point of proceeding with the verification process to ensure the validation of their credentials. 

For the best tile installation services in Wyoming, call us today! Custom …

Identifying a Reliable Tiling Contractor Read More »