Category: Blogs

Is Natural Stone Sustainable?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

natural stone sustainable

All human activities impact the environment, often in devastating ways. As we continually see evidence of our negative effects on the planet, finding “greener” ways to live has never been more important. If you are starting a bathroom or kitchen design project, you may be wondering, is natural stone sustainable? In this post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces talk about sustainability in the natural stone industry.

Is Natural Stone Sustainable?

The good news is natural stone is the most sustainable building material available! Owing to its natural origin, durability and ease of maintenance, natural stone can be a great help in reducing a building’s impact on the environment. Read on to find out more about the concept of “green building” and how natural stone factors in.

What is Green Building?

Green building refers to a design process that takes sustainability into account. This approach focuses on reducing waste and increasing efficiency of resource use (such as energy, water and building materials). Additionally, green building aims to reduce a building’s long-term impact on the health of its occupants and the environment, and accounts for every step of the building process––from site-selection and design to construction, operation and maintenance. Lastly, the concept of green building looks ahead, ensuring the eventual removal or disposal of building materials can be done in an environmentally responsible way.

Natural Stone Production

Natural stone comes directly from the Earth. It does not require factory production, which often involves the need to bond materials together with petroleum-based resins. Furthermore, nearly 100% of natural stone from deconstructed projects can be recycled for use on other projects or crushed for use in constructions like roadbeds.

Durability of Natural Stone

Durability is one of the biggest factors making natural stone a sustainable choice. From the Egyptian pyramids to the Parthenon, the evidence is clear––natural stone can last through the ages. This means the natural stone countertops, flooring, walling and other surfaces in your home are a lifelong investment––with proper care and maintenance, natural stone surfaces can last for generations. There will be no need to expend energy and resources on replacing your surfaces.

Reducing the Heat Island Effect

“Heat Island” refers to the way a building can raise the average temperature of the surrounding area. Light-colored varieties of natural stone have the ability to reflect heat, rather than absorb and radiate it, which helps reduce a building’s potential to become a “heat island.”

Maintenance

Maintenance is yet another way in which natural stone asserts itself as an eco-friendly building material. Simple, regular maintenance goes a long way in increasing a stone’s longevity, and these surfaces can often be cleaned with a mild, Ph-neutral dish detergent, rather than harsh cleaners that can make their way into our soil or water sources.

Quarrying and Location

Over the last two decades, the practice of quarrying has made significant strides in improving best practices related to the environment. Today, domestic quarries are required to adhere to strict guidelines, with close oversight by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (among other organizations). Many quarries currently active in the US, Canada and Europe have reclamation plans in place for quarry sites when operations are finished, and countless old quarries have been turned into state parks, lakes and other kinds of recreation areas.

Stone quarry sites are typically available within 500 miles of nearly any building site in the US. This makes it easier to invest in locally sourced materials, reducing greenhouse gas emissions during transportation and supporting local economies.

Natural Stone Surfaces in the Home

Natural stone can be used in the home in a multitude of ways, including:

  • Kitchen countertops
  • Bathroom vanities
  • Flooring
  • Backsplash
  • Fireplaces and mantels
  • Walling
  • Bar top
  • Tub Surrounds
  • Outdoor walkways and patios

Work with Cosmos!

Whether you’re interested in granite, marble, quartzite, schist, onyx or soap stone, Cosmos Surfaces offers a range of eco-friendly natural stone options to satisfy any design style. Our guide on how to choose a natural stone fabricator offers insight on how to find a reputable company to work with, and you can take sustainability one step further with our post on how to use natural stone remnants around the home.

Cosmos brings decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. As a 2nd generation, family-owned business, our team is passionate about connecting North American businesses and consumers to exceptional materials in a way that is respectful to local communities and the environment. Get in touch by filling out our contact form today!

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Grey Imperiale - Grey Marble 3

Flowing rivers of a variety of greys is why this Brazilian marble earned its name, Grey Imperiale. A myriad of shades of grey layer together to create a beautifully mellow but surprisingly textured material. Grey Imperiale’s simplicity makes it a versatile choice for any space, and the spectrum of greys pairs well with darker colors.

Marble Countertops: Pros and Cons

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

marble countertops

Since the era of Ancient Greece & Rome, marble has been marveled upon for its stately beauty, enduring strength and standout veining pattern. In modern times, the appeal of this natural stone remains steadfast – particularly for homeowners desiring a distinguished looking, long-wearing countertop. Marble offers distinct advantages as a surface, but it also has its fair share of potential downfalls to keep in mind. If you’re contemplating marble countertops, pros and cons of choosing this material are something you’ll want to put on your radar. Today, our trusted stone specialists will fill you in on some top concerns about marble and how they can be worked around, should you select this stone for your kitchen countertop.

Marble Countertops Pros and Cons: Common Issues & Helpful Solutions

For every possible problem you might encounter with marble, there is an effective & straightforward solution! As you read on, you’ll discover that preventative maintenance plays a huge role in keeping marble pristine over time – as is the case with just about any stone surface. Knowledge is power, so let’s discuss some marble vulnerabilities to be aware of and keys to avoiding countertop dilemmas.

Etching & Staining

When a marble countertop is exposed to acidic substances such as coffee, citrus juice or cleaning products containing vinegar, etch marks may be left behind. The reason for this is that the calcium carbonate present in marble has a chemical reaction with acids, resulting in corrosion of the stone. Marble can also be stained by water, oil, ink, markers, or paint if spills or drips are not cleaned up promptly and end up being absorbed into the stone. The solution? Having your marble countertop sealed at regular intervals will help it readily resist absorption which causes dark spots and etching.

Porosity

Marble is a porous stone. This means that liquids and bacteria can seep beneath the surface of the stone when it is in its natural form. Once again, sealing your marble countertop on a regular basis will save the day by creating and maintaining an impenetrable barrier against spills, stains and germs.

Chipping & Scratching

While marble is known to perform outstandingly well in a high-traffic kitchen, there is always a chance that your countertop could be scratched or chipped during daily use. Luckily, these flaws can be addressed by a professional. Depending on the chosen stone finish and the specific imperfections, a stone specialist may use resurfacing, polishing and/or honing to restore your countertop to its original brilliance. (An important note: Avoiding the use of abrasive cleaning agents and scrubbers will help prevent scratches from occurring in the first place.)

Heat Tolerance

Our list of marble countertops pros and cons wouldn’t be complete without noting that a marble surface can discolor/crack if hot cookware is placed directly on top of it. As is best practice with any stone countertop, we highly recommend using coasters and trivets to avoid unwanted damage.

Learn More About Best Practices for Marble Maintenance

Hopefully, reading this article has helped you feel more attuned to the characteristics of marble countertops – pros and cons both included! For more helpful advice on preserving marble surfaces of all sorts, head over to our blog post dedicated to how to care for marble countertops, vanities, floors and more.

Find the Countertop of Your Dreams with Help from Cosmos Surfaces!

Would you like to transform your kitchen with a memorably stunning and magnificently durable new countertop? The experts at Cosmos Surfaces are here to help you decide on the best stone surface for your design style and practical needs!

Our wide collection features classic marble varieties such as Calacatta Matarazzo and Carrara White, as well as more adventurous selections like Rain Forest Green. We also offer porcelain that looks like marble for those seeking the classic look of marble combined with the heightened affordability & ease of maintenance of engineered stone.

Regardless of what you’re looking for, you can depend on our seasoned surfacing specialists to guide you to your perfect countertop match! To browse our expansive selection of top-quality stone products and get your project in motion, visit our website & reach out to us today.

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Like black soapstone and jade soapstone, gray soapstone is durable and elegant. Our gray soapstone, also known as silver soapstone, is accented with natural veins of white, adding unique character and beautiful variety to each slab. Smooth to touch, grey soapstone is a perfect fit for breathtaking countertops and vanity tops.

A Guide to Countertop Edge Types

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

countertops guide

Finding the right countertop material, pattern and color for your space––and design style––can make all the difference, but it doesn’t end there! Details like stone finishes and countertop edge types can further help refine the look you desire in your home. In this post, the experts at Cosmos discuss popular countertop edge profiles and their visual effects.

What are Countertop Edge Types?

When we talk about countertop edge types––or edge profiles––we refer to the way countertop edges are shaped. This may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference when aiming for a certain aesthetic in the home. Finishing details like edge profiling can truly set your space apart with unique details that draw the eye to your countertops. On the other hand, opting for a simpler edge design can allow other features in your kitchen to come forward and shine.

Popular Countertop Edge Types

Countertop edge types typically fall into one of three categories: straight edge, curved or decorative. Each type can contribute to your design style in its own way. Let’s take a look at five of the most popular countertop edge types out there:

Straight

Straight edges often work well in streamlined kitchens, where clean lines and simple design reign supreme. These edges are not sharp, but rather exhibit slightly rounded corners to protect the stone from damage, like chipping. The amount of rounding can often be customized. Straight edge profiles are an excellent choice when looking to highlight another feature in your kitchen, like gorgeous backsplash, eye-catching tile or a centerpiece appliance, as it tends to blend in nicely with the rest of the kitchen, rather than attracting attention to itself.

straight

Top Bevel

Bevel edges pair nicely with contemporary designs. They feature subtle, angular edges, typically at a 45-degree angle (this can often be customized) on top. A double bevel is another great option, featuring angled edges both on the top and bottom of the countertop edge. This style is more detailed, and likely to draw the eye in to highlight your countertops.

top bevel bevel scaled

Bullnose

Bullnose edges come in two varieties: full bullnose, and half bullnose.

  • Full Bullnose edges are rounded both on top and on the bottom. This curved edge adds a softness to the design and can make a countertop appear thinner. Often seen in traditional design, bullnose edges are considered both timeless and classic.

bullnose

  • Half Bullnose edges are rounded only on the top edge of the counter, which helps retain the softer, curved effect while giving the countertop a thicker appearance.

Ogee

The Ogee has a concave radius, first dipping then curving outward again on the bottom, creating an angled S-curve. Ogee edges offer a more decorative design style which can draw the eye to your countertops. This classic, elegant option works well in traditional kitchens and provides a sense of detail and texture.

Rock Face or Chiseled

A chiseled edge has a rough, rugged finish that exposes the raw stone of the countertop material. This edge style can contribute to a rustic, natural appearance and work beautifully in a space utilizing warm earth tones, or in a home where natural shapes and features are highlighted and celebrated.

waterfall

Choosing a Countertop Edge

While we’ve discussed a few of the most popular countertop edge types available, there are many other options out there, with features that can often be customized to fit your space, design intentions and budget. It’s important to note that not all surface materials work well with all edge types, and you may need to check in with a manufacturer to ensure an optimal match between your desired countertop material and the edge style of your choosing.

Work with Cosmos!

Our team of experts can provide guidance on choosing the best, ethically sourced countertop materials and edge profiles to ensure you find the best match for your needs, design goals and budget.

If you have questions about countertop edge profiles and their design applications, please reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We offer a wide selection of natural stone and our team of experts is always happy to help!

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Luce Di Luna is an elegant, intricately textured type of dolomite marble. Thanks to naturally occurring, often intersecting lines in the stone, it’s easy to get lost in the pattern. Fittingly, its name translates to “light from the moon,” which perfectly describes its soft and brilliant white-gray coloring. It is commonly used for countertops, floors and interior walls.

Quartz Vs. Granite Vs. Marble in the Kitchen

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

With Thanksgiving & the winter holidays right around the corner, you may be on a mission to maximize the functionality & aesthetic appeal of your kitchen design. When planning a kitchen renovation, it’s only natural to start with the countertops – otherwise known as the focal point of the kitchen! As you seek to find an attractive, long-wearing countertop material that fits your lifestyle and personality, you might compare quartz vs. granite vs. marble. All three are popular choices for kitchen countertops, so how do you know which will best suit your family and home? Cosmos Surfaces is here to break down the differences and highlight the benefits each material can bring to your culinary space.

Characteristics of Quartz: Pros & Cons for a Cooking Area

Could quartz be the perfect match for your next kitchen countertop? Let’s begin our comparison of quartz vs. granite vs. marble by exploring the properties of this engineered stone:

  • Composition – Quartz is comprised primarily of pulverized natural stones like granite and quartz, although the final product may not necessarily contain much raw quartz at all. Around 90% of a quartz slab is usually a blend of stone and industrial waste like glass and mirrors, with the other portion consisting of binders and polymers.
  • Perks – Owing to its composition, quartz is dense, scratch resistant and non-porous. That last one means there’s no need to seal the surface in order to safeguard against bacteria, moisture and stains. Indeed, quartz can tolerate exposure to acidic liquids like wine or citrus juice, with low risk of etching so long as spills are cleaned up promptly. In terms of ease of maintenance, all of the above gives quartz an edge over natural stones like granite and marble.
  • Pitfalls – As compared to marble, quartz has a lower ability to resist heat. So, to avoid cracks and other damage, hot cookware should always be placed on a trivet so it does not come into direct contact with the countertop. So, if you’re planning to torch that sugar on your Crème Brulee, make sure that there is a barrier between your quartz countertop and the dish! Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight should also be avoided to prevent discoloration and warping.

How Does Granite Perform in the Kitchen?

Granite has been a leading kitchen countertop option for many decades – and for several good reasons:

  • Composition – Made up of minerals like quartz, mica and feldspar, granite is an igneous rock which forms as magma crystallizes. Its creation process lends it virtually unmatched density in the world of stone.
  • Perks – Thanks to its extreme hardness, granite makes an impressively durable countertop that can stand up to heat and high-traffic use while resisting scratches and cracks.
  • Pitfalls – To some homeowners, granite is a bit too hard – in which case a softer stone such as marble may be more desirable. Like any stone surface, granite does require daily & weekly cleaning to uphold its pristine appearance. Additionally, many types of granite must be sealed to ensure optimal performance & longevity.

Why Marble Countertops Are a Baker’s Dream

Last but not least, marble is another natural stone which can make for a timelessly stunning yet functional kitchen countertop – particularly if you love to bake! Here’s how:

  • Composition – Composed largely of calcite mixed with a smaller amount of other minerals, marble is a metamorphic rock. It is the product of limestone being subjected to extreme heat and pressure over millions of years.
  • Perks – Marble is esteemed for its ability to resist both heat and cracking, in turn making it a terrific option for heavily used surfaces like the kitchen countertop. What’s more, professional and at-home bakers alike prefer marble due to its outstanding temperature retention properties. Naturally cool and soft to the touch, marble offers the ideal surface for rolling out dough – for everything from pizza to holiday pastries!
  • Pitfalls – While marble’s softness is beneficial in certain ways, its lower density and high porosity mean that the stone is more vulnerable to staining and etching. To make a marble countertop as resilient as possible, professional sealing on a regular basis is a must. On another important note, acidic cleaners should be avoided since marble can be damaged by them.

Quartz Vs. Granite Vs. Marble: Explore Your Options with Cosmos Surfaces

Hopefully, you feel more clear on which material is most aligned to your personality and preferences after reading this article. If you’re stuck choosing among quartz vs. granite vs. marble, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces are here to assist. To help you make the most informed decision for your kitchen, we’ll take into account your design style, budget and which features are most important to you.

Cosmos Surfaces invites you to browse our broad selection of stone surfaces for the kitchen and other areas of the home. Your trusted stone supplier is proud to provide top-quality surfacing materials for any project, including natural stone, engineered quartz and even quartz that looks like marble. If you have any questions or would like to locate our nearest showroom to you, don’t hesitate to get in touch!

Color of the Month: Ash

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-3802, Ash! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Solid and strong, eternally timeless Ash conveys a message of longevity.”

Calacatta Vintage - White Quartz 3

Bold, dramatic grey veining imbues Calacatta Vintage with sensational personality. This white quartz embodies that refined flair characteristic of rare Italian marble, yet with superior durability you can trust in your home’s most well-loved spaces. This white quartz truly shines in bathrooms, kitchens, countertops, flooring, commercial spaces, and beyond.

What is the Difference Between Marble and Granite?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

difference marble granite

They are two of the most beloved natural stone surfaces out there. But what is the difference between marble and granite? In this post, we discuss their properties and some key differences when it comes to daily cleaning and long-term maintenance.

What is Granite?

Granite is a type of magmatic rock, formed by the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth’s surface. The stone is typically a conglomerate of quartz, mica, feldspar, amphiboles and other trace minerals. Granite has been used for thousands of years, as evidenced by historical structures that remain standing all throughout Europe to this day. That’s no surprise, as granite is second only to diamonds in its hardness. Granite surfaces are highly durable and heat-, crack- and scratch-resistant, making it an excellent choice for indoor applications like kitchen countertops, floor tiles, backsplash, bathroom tiles, mantelpieces and staircases.

Cleaning and Maintaining Granite

While granite is one of the easiest natural stone surfaces to care for, it can become dull around sinks and in high traffic work areas over time. The following measures can help protect your granite countertops for many years to come:

  • Wipe counters daily with a neutral cleaner.
  • Use cutting boards, cooling racks and trivets.
  • Clean spills and moisture as soon as possible.
  • Keep bottles of cleaning fluids like dish detergent off of countertops (on a dish, for example).
  • Use coasters for mugs and glasses.
  • Dry underneath dishes regularly.
  • Wipe water around faucets off daily to prevent it from calcifying and turning white (using a neutral cleaner once a week can clear away buildup).

What is Marble?

The main difference between marble and granite is how these stones are formed in the earth. Let’s discuss marble! Marble is metamorphic as opposed to magmatic. Metamorphic rock forms when limestone is subjected to high amounts of heat and pressure during metamorphosis. This process usually occurs at convergent plate boundaries near the Earth’s crust. Marble is primarily composed of calcite, but like granite, it usually contains other minerals like micas, quartz and iron oxides as well. This gorgeous natural stone is just about synonymous with a luxurious, timeless aesthetic.

While marble is a softer stone than granite, it can also last for generations when properly installed and cared for. Marble is both heat- and crack-resistant, which makes it an excellent choice for the kitchen or around a fireplace.

Cleaning and Maintaining Marble

Marble is a porous, absorbent stone, which can make it vulnerable to spills and acidic substances if not sealed properly and regularly. When used outdoors, it can also be damaged by acid rain and pollutants, but taking these steps on a daily basis will help protect your investment:

  • Wipe up spills and dirt right away with a non-abrasive cloth or sponge.
  • Avoid using chemical cleaners, acids like vinegar and lemon juice, grout cleaners, and tub or tile cleaners, as they can etch and dull the stone.
  • Soapless, neutral cleaners specifically made for stone are ideal. You can also use mild, phosphate-free, eco-friendly dishwashing liquids or powders, neutral detergents, or vegetable oil-based soaps––just be sure to rinse all cleaners off completely with fresh water.
  • For exterior steps and pathways, sweep and rinse marble often with water, drying them thoroughly afterwards.Use coasters and trivets when placing wet or hot items on marble.

Sealing the Deal

When it comes to maintaining marble surfaces, regular sealing is essential and will likely need to be done more frequently than is the case for granite. That said, most granites can also benefit from being sealed. Some types of granite are more porous than others, and may need several applications, while very dense granite may not need to be sealed at all (or might only require a single application). If you’d like to find out more about the process of sealing, our post all about sealing natural stone surfaces provides an overview.

Conclusion

Both marble and granite make for excellent choices in the home, and the decision between them might come down to factors like personal preference, design aesthetics and budget. Granite is a harder stone than marble, but with proper maintenance, both stones are highly durable, while marble might require some additional sealing and extra care when selecting cleaning agents.

If you have questions about marble or granite, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our team is always happy to help!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Atlas - Multi-Colored Granite

Bespeckled with a map-like pattern, Atlas is an exotic granite with the power to transport you anywhere in the world — all without leaving your property. Tinges of copper, rust, crystal blue and emerald form intricate veins on a backdrop of grayish-blue. Where will you go with Atlas? Bathroom vanity tops and kitchen countertops are both favorable destinations for this one-of-a-kind stone.

How to Clean Natural Stone Like a Pro

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

clean natural stone

From countertops to floors to tub surrounds, there are so many surfaces for which natural stone can be a marvelous choice! Whether you seek to enliven your interior or to ground a space within your home, different stone varieties such as marble, granite and quartzite can help you achieve your design dreams. Regardless of how you leverage the beauty and durability of natural stone in your home, you’ll naturally want to maximize its longevity through proper care. From installation day forward, knowing how to clean natural stone is a must to maintain its pristine appearance and optimize its performance.

How to Clean Natural Stone: What Every Homeowner Should Know

To help you protect your investment, Cosmos Surfaces is here to share a few important natural stone maintenance steps:

  • DO Be careful to choose an appropriate cleaner – Using a cleaner which isn’t approved for your particular natural stone surface can be detrimental in several ways. First off, it can damage the stone in the form of burning or etching. Additionally, it can break down the sealant (if one was applied) and dull the finish. Thus, you should take care to always read labels and confirm that products are compatible with your natural stone before applying them.
  • DO Be sure your stone remains well protected – If you select a porous natural stone such as granite, regular sealing will likely be recommended to preserve the stone’s beauty & integrity. How often sealer will need to be reapplied will depend on several factors, including the porosity of the stone, the chosen finish and whether the surface is located in a high-traffic area. If you wish to skip sealing, consider a non-porous stone such as soap stone.
  • DO Get in the habit of dry mopping/wiping regularly – Dust and debris can cling to polished stone surfaces. Luckily, it’s easy to lift them away with a dry dust mop or a microfiber towel. Doing so on a daily basis – and before using a moist cleaner on your stone surfaces – will prevent signs of wear such as scratches.

Common Natural Stone Cleaning Mistakes to Avoid

Now that we’ve highlighted a few major do’s for how to clean natural stone like an expert, let’s look at what you generally should NOT do:

  • DON’T Use acidic cleaners on natural stone – Vinegar and lemon juice are useful for cleaning and disinfecting many surfaces throughout the home – but not so much for natural stone. A word to the wise: Acidic cleaning agents will etch the surface of many natural stones, including marble and granite, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
  • DON’T Clean your natural stone with harsh chemicals – Of course, you want to make sure your natural stone surfaces remain clean and sanitary for your family. However, using heavy-duty disinfectants such as bleach or ammonia can discolor & damage most types of natural stone. As a safer alternative, we recommend choosing a stone-specific cleaner with bacteria-fighting properties. Aside from skipping the intense chemicals, avoiding the use of abrasive scrubbing pads in your natural stone maintenance routine is also advisable to prevent scratches.
  • DON’T Try to repair major damage yourself – Natural stone wins praise for its hardwearing properties. Still, by virtue of daily use, it can be subject to chips, stains and other damage. Wiping up spills right away and taking care to avoid placing hot cookware directly on your natural stone will go a long way to sustain it. Further, a simple baking soda and water paste can often be effective at buffing out small marks or scratches. But if significant gouging, chipping or etching occurs, it’s best to call a professional for stone restoration. Attempting to DIY your stone repair will likely be ineffective, and could actually make the issue much worse.

Look to Cosmos Surfaces for the Broadest & Best Selection of Natural Stone

Perhaps you have already made the decision to incorporate a stunning natural stone surface into your home design, or maybe you are still exploring whether this material is the best choice for your project. Either way, we hope you’ve found our tips on how to clean natural stone to be valuable!

As long-time surfacing industry experts, Cosmos Surfaces is proud to be an authority on natural stone. If you are seeking a gorgeous surface that will mesh with your lifestyle and design goals, our team is here to help you find the perfect product in our extensive natural stone collection. We are also happy to offer our professional advice on caring for natural stone so it continues to look fresh and perform beautifully for decades. To be connected with a member of our team, get in touch today!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Vitrium - Cream Granite 3

The granite dubbed Vitrium is both bold and complex. Hailing from Brazil, a creamy Feldspar and white quartz background is accentuated by diverse patterns that range from strikes of gold to swirls of black. No two areas of Vitrium are the same; every inch is uniquely diverse and beautifully translucent in some areas, which makes Vitrium a versatile option for any room or application.

All About Green Natural Stone

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

green natural stone

Green natural stone surfaces can be especially unique and eye-catching––perhaps because green is a less common color when it comes to natural stone. In this post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces explore green natural stones, their origins and their properties.

Types of Green Natural Stone

Whether you’re on the hunt for a stone that’s specifically green in color, or a stone with certain properties––but you would love a green variant––green natural stone can be found in serpentine, as well as in variants of soapstone, quartzite, marble and granite. Let’s take a closer look at each:

Serpentine

Geologically known as serpentinite, serpentine refers to a family of stones that are formed in a similar way, but can contain different minerals. Due to these variations, the hardness, color and patterns found in serpentine can vary. Serpentine is a metamorphic stone, which means it formed from a different type of stone after a change in conditions, like extreme heat and/or pressure below the earth’s surface.

Serpentine forms from iron-rich magma found deep beneath the ocean floor, with its source in the Earth’s mantle. This magma contains olivine, a bright green mineral (perhaps better known to those born in August as peridot). As this iron-rich stone makes contact and mixes with hot seawater, it gives rise to the formation of new types of minerals. This process occurs deep within the Earth’s crust and leads to the variation of minerals––and therefore the properties––found in serpentine.

The stone typically lands between 3 and 6 on the Mohs hardness scale, which means it’s harder than marble, but softer than granite. Serpentine comes in bright green or deep, forest green varieties. Depending on the minerals present in the stone, brown, red and white accents might also make an appearance, creating patterns in the stone that range from dramatically mottled to gentle swirls.

Green Granite

If you’re in search of a stone lauded for its hardness and durability, green granite is an excellent option. While green variants of granite are less common than, say, the typical grey, ivory, brown or black, the presence of certain minerals can create gorgeous green hues and dramatic patterns.

Emerald Pearl is a gorgeous, dark green granite variant, owing its coloration to green feldspar, while Cosmos Green, sourced from India, contains flurries of royal gold and emerald over expanses of charcoal grey and white. Another popular green granite is New Costa Esemralda.

Granite is highly durable and heat-, crack- and scratch-resistant. This makes it a great option for a variety of applications including countertops, mantelpieces, floor tiles and backsplash.

Soapstone

Soapstone is known for its “soapy” feel, and it comes from the mineral talc––the softest mineral on Earth (measuring a 1 on the Mohs hardness scale). The amount of talc in soapstone varies, which means the overall hardness of the stone will vary as well. Commercial soapstone slabs intended for practical use contain less talc, with the remaining composition including harder minerals like chlorite, magnesite and amphibole. Like serpentine, this broad variation in potential mineral components and their percentages makes soapstone more of a family of stones.

Despite being relatively soft, soapstone has many benefits––acids, liquids and extreme temperatures won’t harm the stone. While the daily wear and tear of the kitchen will show, scratches can be sanded and buffed out, or treated with a coat of oil. Soapstone is a great option in areas where it won’t be exposed to the level of wear and tear typical of a kitchen, like in a bar or bathroom.

One of the most interesting properties of soapstone is its ability to absorb and re-radiate heat. This makes it an excellent choice for use with fireplaces, mantels or wood stoves, especially in colder climates. These stones tend to be green, grey or black with white veining like you see in our Soapstone Jade. Soapstone has an easygoing, soft aesthetic to it.

Other Green Stones

Quartzite, sandstone and slate all have green varieties of their own as seen in Botticelli and Rain Forest Green. Bringing this peaceful, soothing color into your home is simply a matter of finding the right color and stone combination to suit your needs.

Work with Cosmos!

If you have questions about green natural stone, please reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We offer a wide selection of natural stone and our team of experts is always ready to help.

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Nacarado - Gold Quartzite 2

The dry browns and subtle oranges of Nacarado brings a desert scene to mind. Mellow and warm, the Brazilian quartzite of Nacarado is perfect for bathrooms, fireplaces, and exterior countertops. Available in several types of finish, Nacarado looks and feels great among brown and golds. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Top Quartz Countertop Trends of 2020

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

quartz countertop trends

While natural stone remains a widely favored choice for kitchen countertops, many modern-day homeowners are discovering the advantages of man-made stones like quartz. Owing largely to improvements in engineering techniques, quartz can now be crafted to closely imitate the look of natural marble or granite. As this durable, attractive engineered stone has experienced an uptick in popularity, certain quartz varieties & styles have drawn a particularly large amount of attention. Today, we’ll take a look at some of the latest quartz countertop trends that are taking the stone industry by storm in 2020.

Top Quartz Countertop Trends of 2020: Marble Looking Quartz

Marble looking quartz has entered the spotlight in recent years – and it continues to be one of the biggest stone trends of the present era. Prior to advances in engineering, it was difficult to mimic the signature organic veining patterns that are characteristic of real marble in slabs of quartz. But thanks to new, cutting-edge techniques, quartz can now offer an appearance which is virtually indistinguishable from natural stone.

What Are the Advantages of Marble Looking Quartz Countertops?

Before we show you examples of in-demand quartz varieties, we’d first like to explain why one might prefer marble looking quartz for their countertop over the real thing. While each material has its pros and cons, quartz is often a more affordable option, depending on the variety chosen. Additionally, quartz offers the noteworthy benefit of being non-porous, meaning it will not harbor bacteria or absorb moisture. This qualifies quartz as a distinctly low-maintenance, easy-to-clean countertop material.

For those who find the price & properties of quartz to be ideal, but simultaneously love the classic, elegant look of intensely veined marble, these marble looking quartz varieties are likely to appeal:

  • Calacatta Vintage – Calacatta Vintage is a white quartz defined by dramatic & dynamic gray veining. Uncannily reminiscent of rare Italian marble, its personality is both refined and irresistible. Offering supreme durability, this striking white quartz is well suited to kitchen countertops, among many other applications. Even in the most well-loved parts of the home, it will shine on for years to come with minimal maintenance.

Calacatta Vintage - White - Quartz

  • Calacatta Aegean – A luxurious white quartz with hints of brown and gold, Calacatta Aegean brings to mind the marvelous Mediterranean coast. Gray veins meander across its surface, giving this quartz unforgettable character and contrasting with its warm, understated foundation. Dependably durable, Calacatta Aegean is another fantastic choice for countertops.

Calacatta Aegean - White - Quartz

  • Krakel – Looking for something that is a bit more unconventional, but still features marble-like veining? Krakel is a striking black quartz that will swiftly energize any design! Its unexpected pattern is characterized by bright white veins bolting across a stormy gray backdrop. At the intersection of style and function, this quartz is hardwearing enough to withstand daily use as a countertop or kitchen island.

Krakel - Black - Quartz

Minimal, But Still Marvelous: Other Trending Quartz Products

Marble looking quartz is one of the trendiest and best-selling engineered stone styles right now – but it’s far from the only option! If you desire something more neutral and mild-mannered for your kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity, consider these other quartz varieties that are popular in 2020:

  • Astral White – A type of white quartz adorned with flecks of gray, silver and gold, Astral White will infuse your interior with cosmic wonder. While it may be on the more subdued side, its shimmering spots offer visual intrigue and make for an eye-catching countertop.

Astral White - White Quartz 5

  • Moon Rock – 3, 2, 1, liftoff! Moon Rock will fly you to the moon and let you play among the stars. This twinkling white quartz is a stellar choice for kitchen countertops, given that it is highly resistant to scratches and stains. Count on Moon Rock to stand the test of time – in the realms of both beauty and durability.

Moon Rock - White Quartz 3

Collaborate with Cosmos Surfaces to Ensure a Successful Surfacing Project

Hopefully, you’ve enjoyed our quick overview of this year’s top quartz countertop trends & products! Maybe you are now leaning towards quartz for your project, or perhaps you would like to explore other stones as well. Either way, the qualified surfacing professionals at Cosmos Surfaces are available to help you find the absolute best material for your needs, personality, budget & application.

Browse our online gallery to preview our wide selection of marble, quartz and other surfaces of top-tier quality. Should you have questions, need guidance or desire to see a particular stone in person, feel free to get in touch with us anytime!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Elegant, powerful, beautiful – Roma Imperiale is one-of-a-kind. Crystals of white and gold criss-cross and swirl, battling for dominance in this Brazilian quartzite. Roma Imperiale is complex, detailed, and stunning. It looks great among greenery and in bathrooms as vanities, bathtubs, and countertops. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Your Guide for How to Choose Countertop Material

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

showroom

There are many great natural stone and engineered surfacing materials to choose from – each with their own properties, maintenance requirements and aesthetic appeal. In this post, Cosmos Surfaces provides guidelines on how to choose countertop material to fit your needs and your budget. Here are some of the factors you should take into consideration when making your choice:

Finishes

One of the first things you think about when choosing a countertop is the appearance. The finish applied to a stone surface can alter its overall visual effect. There seems to be a trend among homeowners to opt for a leathered finish, which adds texture to the surface. When it comes to light-colored surfaces, like white countertops, a honed or leathered finish can help disguise etch marks.

It’s important to note that not all types of stone can accept all types of finishes. If you have your eye on a particular style of finish, you’ll want to make sure the stone you decide can accept it. Our post on everything you need to know about stone finishes provides an in-depth look at the properties of each type of finish.

Porosity

One of the biggest considerations when choosing a kitchen or bathroom countertop material is porosity. This will significantly impact the maintenance required, as some porous stones/surfaces need to be sealed regularly to prevent stains and damage. Marble is an example of a porous stone that requires that bit of extra attention to keep it looking gorgeous. With the right care and maintenance, marble can last for generations – but it might not be the right surface for you if you want to avoid sealing. Take a look at our detailed post on how to care for marble for more information on this gorgeous natural stone.

On the other end of the spectrum, you’ll find surfaces like quartz countertops – engineered stone containing minerals along with binders and fillers. Quartz countertops are completely non-porous and do not require sealing, which makes them easy to maintain. They come in a wide variety of styles and colors and can even mimic real marble very closely. Our post on how to clean quartz surfaces explores its properties and the maintenance required.

showroom 2

Durability

The durability of a surface is a huge factor in an area like the kitchen, where everyday wear and tear is inevitable. Busy families might want to consider natural stones known for a combination of durability and low maintenance. Granite and quartzite are both great options here, as these materials balance beauty, durability and relatively low maintenance requirements. This post on granite and its uses provides more information on the stone’s qualities, while our post on quartzite maintenance covers cleaning, sealing and stain removal.

Budget

At the end of the day, your budget will definitely impact your decision. It’s important to note many factors go into the cost of a surface material. There might be decisions you can make along the production process that impact the final price tag. Marble, for example, is a natural stone some might consider outside of their budget. However, there are different types of marble that vary in price. Factors like where the marble is quarried, the rarity and demand for the stone, the finish applied and details like edge profiling can all add to or subtract from the final cost. If you have your heart set on a type of stone, but you are concerned about the limits of your budget, work with a professional to find out whether there are alternatives to the product of choice or if any adjustments can be made to suit your budgetary needs.

showroom 3

Why Natural Stone?

Speaking of budget, you might wonder why homeowners would opt for natural stone surfaces when manmade alternatives are available, often at lower costs. This, too, is a multifaceted topic. While these materials may have a lower initial cost, they sometimes cannot stand up to the durability of natural stone surfaces. You can think of natural stone as a long-term investment. With proper care and maintenance, these surfaces can last for generations, while manmade alternatives may need to be replaced within the same period of time.

In addition to durability, a natural stone surface has the appeal of being completely unique. These stones are the result of the Earth’s natural geological processes – no two slabs are exactly alike. Some stones are the result of a powerful, violent event, like the eruption of a volcano, while others formed across millions of years of heat and pressure below the surface of the Earth. Natural stone surfaces are abundant in unique, striking details. They often contain patterns or vibrant splashes of color that tell the story of its formation, and the minerals contained within.

Wondering How to Choose Countertop Material? Work with Cosmos!

If you have more questions about how to choose countertop material, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today. We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our team of experts is always happy to help!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Rich browns and deep silvers make up the quartzite known as Sandalus. Sandalus has a leathered finish that brings out the subtle layers that give this material a rugged appearance. Perfect among wood, leather, and silver, Sandalus makes a great addition to any exterior space or woodsy aesthetic. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Choose a Natural Stone Fabricator

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

stone fabricator

The transition from summer to autumn offers a wonderful opportunity to take on new design projects. Whether you follow the latest trends or not, perhaps you’re craving an upgrade that will enhance the style & functionality of your space for years to come. In this case, you may be drawn to beautiful natural stone for your kitchen, bathroom or even your outdoor living space! When used for any surfacing project, natural stone can be a significant investment in terms of both time and cost. So, when selecting a natural stone fabricator, you’ll definitely want to do your research.

This begs the question: How does one go about locating the most trustworthy & skilled fabricator to help make their natural stone project a success? This article will outline important qualifications that any reputable fabricator should possess.

What is a Natural Stone Fabricator?

The fabricator plays a crucial role in your natural stone design project. They turn a slab of natural stone into a counter top, wall cladding or whatever your project demands. Their skill and experience will influence the beauty and longevity of your natural stone, so it’s important to work with a trusted industry professional.

How to Choose a Natural Stone Fabricator: Key Questions to Ask

Your natural stone fabricator is responsible for transforming your chosen stone material into the stunning finished product you’re envisioning. To select and install a long-wearing stone surface you’ll absolutely adore – now and years down the line – having a reliable fabricator on your team is of the utmost importance. As you compare your options, asking these questions will help you make an informed decision:

  • How long have you been in the industry? – Ideally, you’ll want to work with a well-established stone fabricator that has over a decade of industry experience. Generally speaking, the longer a company has been around, the more likely they are to know what they’re doing – and the more customer testimonials they should have for you to review.
  • Do you have a showroom I can visit? – While not necessarily essential, choosing a fabricator with a showroom near you allows you to see and feel the different stones they can work with, check the quality of their workmanship in seaming slabs and various edge profiles as well as their creative talent in book matching products. Visiting the company’s showroom will also help you get a feel for the true quality of their customer service and craftsmanship, so you can be absolutely sure of your decision.
  • Are you affiliated with an industry association? – Membership in a trade association such as the Natural Stone Institute indicates that a fabricator strives to stay up to date on best practices for using natural stone and serving their customers. As an example, members of the Natural Stone Institute pledge to adhere to the core values of leadership, professionalism, integrity and honesty, as well as to uphold high standards of safety, health and product quality.
  • What brands do you partner with? – Aside from demonstrating a high degree of capability and professionalism, a reliable natural stone or quartz fabricator will take pride in collaborating with brands known to provide superior quality products and customer service. While you’re evaluating the fabricator’s credentials, consider researching the brands they partner with as well.
  • Have you worked with the type of stone I am interested in? – This is a question that is imperative to ask but is quite often overlooked. The answer may not be a yes always, but the most important thing to note will be the fabricator’s knowledge about the material. They must be able to answer your questions on the stone’s fit for a particular project, does the stone need sealing (and if yes, how often must the stone be sealed) and the warranty on their workmanship.
  • Do you have pictures and references for your previous projects? – Apart from their knowledge of the stone and stone type, having pictures and references from their previous clients is especially important in judging the veracity of their statements. Look out for comments on their timeliness, tidiness, and customer service prior to, during and post installation.

An important factor to keep in mind while choosing a fabricator is that the cheapest bid may not always be the best choice for you. It is important to understand and take the value of a fabricator’s knowledge and experience with the product into consideration rather than just the final numbers. An enthusiastic, knowledgeable fabricator will walk you through the pros and cons of the project and be up front on all costs while the lowest bidders might be cutting corners, so ask questions and understand the bids fully before making a decision.

P.S.: Even the best of fabricators will have jobs that have gone wrong for a multitude of reasons that are not fully disclosed online, so don’t let 1 negative comment out of a 50 deter you from considering a possibly great fabricator!

About Cosmos Surfaces

With over 15 years in the industry and more than 15 showrooms across the U.S., our 2nd generation family-owned company is proud to be among the nation’s leading stone distributors – and a member of the Natural Stone Institute. We work closely with the most trusted fabricators and contractors and can help guide our clients to choose the most reliable professionals for their design projects.

Our extensive natural stone collection features something for every application and design style, including mystifying Bacural granite sourced from Brazil.

In addition to natural stone, our product catalog also features magnificent, hardwearing engineered porcelain and quartz surfaces, suited for elevating areas throughout the home.

Join Forces with Cosmos Surfaces for Your Upcoming Stone Surfacing Project

Whether you are a homeowner or a trade professional, our experienced, customer-focused team is here to help you choose the most ideal material for your project – and ensure it is fabricated and installed to perfection. To see more stunning natural stones and discuss your design with the pros at Cosmos Surfaces, visit our website and get in touch with us today!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Agate Earth - Brown Semi-Precious 3

Agate Earth is a type of agate made from a custom blend of hand-picked, semi-precious stones. With tones of brown, red, and black, agate earth is both warm and familiar, a tie back to home and the earth. Strong and durable, agate earth can be installed as countertops, around fireplaces, and more.

Marble Vs. Porcelain That Looks Like Marble

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

porcelain that looks like marble

Discerning homeowners looking to achieve an elevated, luxurious interior are often attracted to marble – and it’s no secret why! After all, this premium natural stone has been treasured for its beauty and durability since the Ancient Greeks & Romans first used it to construct everything from detailed sculptures to essential buildings. Fast forward to the present, and one need not spend a fortune in order to enjoy the distinguished look of marble. Thanks to advances in engineering, porcelain that looks like marble is now available as an alternative option – and it boasts numerous benefits beyond heightened affordability. Today, we’ll take a look at how marble and porcelain looking marble compare in an array of categories.

Marble vs. Porcelain That Looks Like Marble: How Do They Compare?

If you are enthralled by the elegant appearance of marble, but you have a set budget for your project, porcelain that looks like marble may just be the material you’ve been waiting for. Cost aside, there are some situations where engineered porcelain is better suited to the application than natural marble. Let’s discuss some pros and cons of real marble vs. porcelain that mimics marble’s appearance.

Required Care

When it comes to maintaining the integrity & pristine appearance of the stone over time, porcelain is arguably easier to care for than marble. Because it is super dense by design, and often comes glazed, porcelain is highly resistant to stains and moisture. In turn, it is simple and straightforward to maintain using typical household cleaning products, and it can stand up to heavy use with no issue.

On the other hand, marble is more porous, meaning it requires sealing to safeguard against spills & stains. Additionally, you’ll want to be careful to avoid using acidic or abrasive cleaners on a marble surface.

Durability

Ultimately, both porcelain and marble are highly durable materials. But if your project requires the surface to stand up to heavy foot traffic, it’s important to choose a type of stone which is equipped for the job.

Keep in mind that different types of marble and porcelain have different hardness ratings, and the durability of the two stones is ranked using separate scales. To learn more about how this works, visit our post in which we introduce porcelain slabs that look like marble and go into further detail on this point.

Appearance

For many home and business owners, a large part of porcelain’s appeal is that it comes in so many different patterns and colors. Through an advanced engineering process, this modern stone can artfully imitate the aesthetics of naturally occurring marble – right down to the characteristic veining and smooth texture for which marble is known and loved.

As a prime example, Sicily White porcelain encapsulates the refined presence of the finest marble, with deep, organic looking veins and flecks of gray adorning the luxe white background.

Price

As we’ve already alluded to, porcelain is generally a more affordable option than marble, making it preferable for many homeowners. Still, it is vital to note that porcelain can actually come with higher installation costs, since the knowledge, experience and equipment to handle and process these slabs is still limited in the industry.

Design Possibilities

While the characteristic differences setting porcelain apart from marble can make one material more suitable than the other for certain applications, many design projects can be completed using either. Much like marble, porcelain tile is available in a large format slab style. In turn, both materials can work well for more sizable surfaces, such as floors, kitchen islands, accent walls, shower walls and fireplace surrounds. When beautiful surfacing is desired for a more spacious area, large format porcelain tile can even be used to achieve the bookmatched effect which is huge with marble right now. Check out our recent post on the art of bookmatching to learn all about this symmetrical, kaleidoscopic design trend!

porcelain that looks like marble

An important factor to consider while choosing between marble and marble looking porcelain is the edge finish. If you are considering these materials for an area where the edge will be exposed, it is imperative to know that porcelain slabs can only be finished with a straight edge or mitered for a waterfall effect due to their hardness and density. Natural marbles on the other hand can be finished with any type of an edge you desire owing to their low density.

For Amazing Results, Collaborate with Cosmos Surfaces On Your Design Project

Are you in the market for a stunning surface which will perfectly suit your application and offer incredible longevity? Cosmos Surfaces is here to help you locate it! Whether you are deciding between marble and porcelain that looks like marble, or you are curious to explore other materials, you can count on our stone specialists to provide expert guidance and assistance. To be connected with a team member from our 2nd generation family-owned surfacing company, simply fill out our contact form!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

Natural stone that looks like wood — say what? Sequoia Brown is a very special kind of veined, brown and black Brazilian quartzite that mimics the appearance of a sequoia tree’s bark. Offering the supreme durability of natural stone coupled with the rustic look of wood, Sequoia Brown is a great fit for bar tops, countertops, table tops and more.

Marble Vs. Quartz that Looks Like Marble

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

marble vs quartz

White stone is by far the most popular choice for kitchen countertops, regardless of changes in design trends. White marble, for example, calls to mind an elegant, timeless appearance that never goes out of style. As man made alternatives become better at mimicking the real thing, it’s no surprise that quartz that looks like marble is rising in popularity. In this post, we’ll discuss marble vs. quartz that looks like marble by examining the pros and cons of each material, as well as the differences you’ll encounter when it comes to maintenance.

How Marble Is Made

Marble is a metamorphic rock. It forms when limestone is subjected to high amounts of heat and pressure during the natural process of metamorphosis. This process typically occurs at convergent plate boundaries near the Earth’s crust. Marble is primarily composed of calcite, but it usually contains other minerals like Mica, Quartz and Iron.

How Quartz Is Made

Quartz is a man made material also referred to as “engineered stone.” This material consists of a blend of pulverized natural stones like quartz and granite. It can also contain industrial waste, like ceramic tiles and glass. Roughly 90% of the final product consists of this blend, while the remainder contains polymers and binders. Despite bearing the name of quartz, the resulting material may or may not contain significant amounts of raw quartz depending on the pattern chosen.

Quartz That Looks Like Marble

Quartz does contain a large amount of mineral content that can make it look very similar to natural stone. It can easily mimic the look of granite, but it is more difficult to achieve the veining patterns that marble is known for. However, as modern quartz engineering techniques improve, products like Calacatta Aegean and Calacatta Vintage offer excellent substitutes for real marble.

That being said, both marble and engineered quartz offer pros and cons when it comes to aesthetics and maintenance. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons for why people may want to seek out one or the other.

Durability

Quartz and marble are both highly durable, but can be vulnerable to different elements when used as surfaces. When properly installed and maintained, marble will last for generations. It is resistant to heat and cracking, which makes it a great option for the kitchen or around a fireplace. However, marble is fairly absorbent due to its porosity, so it can be vulnerable to staining and acidic substances and can show age over time. When used outdoors, it can be damaged by acid rain and other pollutants.

Quartz is non-porous, so the surface is inherently protected against mold, mildew, bacteria, staining and odors that can form in porous stones. However, quartz surfaces are less heat resistant than marble. Care should be taken to avoid exposing the surface to extreme heat, such as placing hot pots or pans directly on the surface. Prolonged exposure to elements like direct sunlight can lead to discoloration, cracking and warping.

It is important to note that with marbles, small chips and scratches can be buffed and refinished onsite to make it look as good as new overtime. However, with quartz, once the surface is damaged, it cannot be refinished or fixed.

Aesthetics

Engineered quartz can mimic the look of real marble. However, some people prefer the natural beauty that marble is so well known for. When it comes to aesthetics, the decision will depend on where the surface will be used and how it fits into the overall design.

Cost

While the cost of the original Italian marbles have been a major reason for the shift towards marble imitation quartz products, it is worthy to note that the younger marble quarries in other countries have brought us some beautiful natural marble options that are stronger, better performing and in some cases more affordable than marble looking quartz! These newer marbles with their affordable price tags have gained tremendous momentum among natural stone shoppers.

Cleaning and Maintenance

The biggest difference between marble and quartz comes down to maintenance. Marble needs to be sealed regularly for protection against spills and drips, while quartz does not need to be sealed because it is not porous.

There will also be differences in selecting appropriate cleaners. Neutral cleaners specifically made for natural stone are ideal for marble, while mild dishwashing detergent and a soft cloth often do the trick for quartz. Some cleaning agents can damage the resin binders and fillers in quartz, so care should be taken to select appropriate, safe cleaners. For a more in depth look at the best cleaning and maintenance practices for each material, check out our blog post on how to care for marble, or this one on how to clean quartz surfaces.

Work with Cosmos Surfaces!

Quartz that looks like marble can be a great option depending on your needs. Cosmos Surfaces offers a wide range of marble and quartz products along with other top quality surface materials. Our experts are happy to answer questions and help you decide which material is best suited to your needs and budget – reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today to get started!

Color of the Month: Fired Brick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-1337, Fired Brick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Strong and sturdy, Fired Brick adds gravitas.”

The quartzite Brown Silk is mesmerizing from afar, but even more so up close. Crystalline layers of silver and white among the dominant brown of Brown Silk are as detailed and complex as the silk of a spider’s web. Brown Silk is a delicate, crystal constellation brought to life. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How Can Natural Stone Colors Affect Your Mood?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

natural stone mood

The colors we choose to incorporate into our interior design scheme say a lot about our personality and style. But aside from this, our chosen color palette can also set the mood of a room, and even influence how we feel while spending time there. In fact, it is well documented that certain colors can evoke certain emotions – and this is certainly the case with natural stone colors. In this article, Cosmos Surfaces will offer a few examples of how different hues create different moods.

How Can Natural Stone Colors Affect Your Mood?

With so many of us working remotely for the foreseeable future due to the coronavirus pandemic, having a functional yet comfortable home is now more important than ever. Naturally, one’s workspace should be conducive to concentration and productivity, while areas of the home used for relaxation and enjoyment should be designed to promote feelings of calmness, wellbeing or fun.

Much like how natural stone patterns can be strategically selected to help establish one’s desired atmosphere, natural stone colors can function to spark specific moods in a space. Let’s explore how this phenomenon works with various hues commonly found in natural stones like granite, marble and quartzite:

  • Crisp Whites – It’s no secret that white interiors appear clean and put together, albeit simple. This combination sets the stage for a soothing mood. If you desire a bit more invigoration and visual intrigue, we suggest choosing a brighter white stone with some veining, such as Opal White marble.
  • Versatile Grays – Often prominent in slate and marble, gray can foster many different moods, depending on the particular shade. While silvery and white grays liven up a space, mid-range shades are more mellow and muted. Meanwhile, darker shades of gray (verging on black) are decidedly mysterious and thought provoking. Intensely veined, multicolored gray stones such as Grey Imperiale marble strike the perfect balance between serenity and emotion.
  • Mellow Greens – Like certain shades of gray, cool green stone is known to lend a tranquil feeling to a room. Take, for instance, Alexandrita, a pale sea foam green quartzite enhanced by warm ivory and peach hues. Appropriate for countertops and floors – among other applications –  this stone has a calming effect which makes it well suited to living spaces & sanctuaries throughout the home.
  • Striking & Serene Blues – Commonly found in quartzite and granite, blue is a bold color which can animate a space, but also ground it. Strong blues may promote positivity and creative thinking, while softer shades can enhance focus and clear thinking. Featuring a range of stunning blues, Azul Bahia granite is perfect for introducing a breathtaking pop of color into a bathroom or kitchen.
  • Invigorating Golds – Not only is gold natural stone effortlessly luxurious – it’s a near-guaranteed mood booster! Breathe fresh life into a bathroom, kitchen or outdoor living space with Azul Imperiale, an uplifting Brazilian quartzite defined by bolts of gold flashing across a light blue background.

Setting the Right Mood with Natural Stone

As we’ve delved into here, the shades found in natural stone can have a powerful effect on your mood. Whether you aim to stimulate the senses, or to avoid distractions, it’s important to be aware of how the colors in your interior design might help accomplish or interfere with your unique goals.

Beyond color, there are several other important factors to consider when choosing a natural stone surface for any room in your home. From the properties of the chosen stone type, to the patterns and colors present within, to the selected finish – plus influence from the surrounding design elements – many things will combine to shape the aesthetics of your surface & space.

Count On Cosmos Surfaces to Help You Upgrade Your Interior

Drawing on over three decades of industry experience, Cosmos Surfaces is committed to helping homeowners find the ideal surfacing material for their purposes. In our extensive selection of natural stone surfaces, you’ll find options which span the entire color spectrum – including plenty of vibrant picks, plus a multitude of more understated neutral options.

After you’ve taken a look at our natural stone collection, reach out to be connected with one of our stone specialists. We look forward to helping you plan your dream design and providing you with a high-quality stone surface that suits your needs & sets your desired mood!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

A Brazilian granite, Key West Gold is comprised of mellow neutral tones, including khaki, gold, light brown, ivory, black and gray. Thanks to its comforting and consistent speckled pattern, Key West Gold is a wonderful option for countertops, floors, table tops, backsplashes and vanity tops — in both homes and commercial spaces.

Tile Pattern Ideas and Where to Use Them

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

tile pattern ideas

Gorgeous, functional interior design can elevate any space, but it requires a multi-faceted approach. In this post, we look at popular tile pattern ideas and how they can help you achieve the look you want.

With each element in a room building towards a desired aesthetic, it’s important to consider which materials to use, and how to use them. When it comes to tile backsplash or bathroom and accent walls, the type of tile, its colors and textures and even the grout used can all contribute to bringing a certain look and feel into your home. That said, another crucial step in the decision-making process lies in the tile pattern. That is to say, what kind of layout will help you achieve your design goals and bring out the best qualities in the tile you’ve put thought and care into selecting?

Let’s look at some popular tile patterns and the visual effects they create:

Classic Brick Layout

classic brick

In this pattern, tiles are placed in horizontal rows, and each row is offset by half a tile-width. The resulting long, horizontal lines can have the effect of visually widening a room. This is a timeless layout that never goes out of style and works with any kind of rectangular tile! A brick layout works well in spaces where one simple kind of tile is used, while pairing the tile with a contrasting color grout can help accentuate both the horizontal lines and consistent geometric pattern throughout.

Vertical Brick

This pattern is the same as the classic brick pattern mentioned above, just rotated vertically. With this layout, the vertical lines lead the eye upward, creating a sense of height. A vertical brick pattern adds a contemporary twist to the classic motif and works well in smaller bathrooms, for example, where one might want to visually lift the ceiling height and create a sense of space.

Mosaic

mosaic

When it comes to interior design, “mosaic” tiles are any small tiles, for example, 1-inch by 1-inch tiles, that repeat in a shape or set of shapes. Countless patterns are available, and mosaic tiles can be used to create complex patterns, or simply add a sense of texture and detail to an area.

The busy nature of mosaic tiles, along with the need to use more grout, makes it a popular choice for accent areas, as opposed to entire walls. The additional grout makes it a less slippery surface when used as a shower floor, while the detail and multi-tonal effects mosaic tiles create also make them a great option to use as backsplash, or to line a niche. Mosaic tiles can be used effectively to balance out larger tiles, creating texture and detail to contrast and compliment simpler, larger tiles.

Stacked

stacked

In a stacked pattern, tiles are aligned in a simple, repeating grid. This layout creates a modern look and feel, and its simplistic nature has a calm, soothing effect. Stacked patterns work well in modern spaces where clean shapes and straight lines reign supreme, while also creating an effective counterpoint to organic forms, such as natural wood. Using bright or contrasting grout can help emphasize the simple, geometric pattern.

Large Brick

Similar to the classic brick pattern, a large brick pattern makes use of oversize tiles. In this case, the pattern helps create a more seamless effect of continuous tiles by minimizing the amount of visible grout lines. Using rich stone tiles and color-matching grout can truly create the appearance of a large, unbroken area of the tile.

Solid Slabs

Rather than using smaller tiles laid out in a pattern, it’s possible to use a single, large slab of material for, as an example, a contemporary kitchen backsplash. Large slabs can even be cut to create matching backsplash and kitchen counters in smaller kitchens. Solid slabs help create an open, spacious look and can be used effectively to create seamless walls.

Herringbone

herringbone

A herringbone pattern creates a zig-zag formation by laying tiles at right angles to each other. This layout works beautifully on accent walls, bringing a sense of dynamic visual energy into a space. The complexity of the grout lines created by this pattern plays well against simple tiles, such as white tiles. A herringbone pattern can also be integrated into a section of a larger wall or backsplash, creating a focal point within a simpler surrounding brick pattern, for example. It’s important to note this pattern does require the cutting of tiles as it approaches borders, which can create some amount of tile waste.

Accent Borders

A strip of accent tiles along a border or set to interrupt a simple pattern along a certain point of a wall can help create visual interest. Additionally, if you are tiling a full wall or section of a wall, you might find that the tiles don’t perfectly fit the height of the space. Rather than cutting the border row of tiles to fit, the difference can be made up by using smaller tiles as an accent border, or as a stripe that interrupts the pattern, allowing larger tiles to fit perfectly into the space.

Conclusion

We’ve covered some of the most popular tile patterns you can use to great effect, but this is by no means an exhaustive list! If you have questions about tiling or other surface materials, get in touch with Cosmos! We offer a wide selection of products, and our blog provides information on materials, cleaning and maintenance and design tips!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Exuding strength, mystery, and daring, Titanium is a striking type of granite fit for the bold. Originating in Brazil, and also known as Cosmic Black, the black backdrop with swirls and waves of silver and gold make titanium an alluring and captivating material for any kitchen countertop, fireplace tiling, and bathroom flooring.

Accepting Imperfections in Natural Stone (and Growing to Love Them)

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

accepting imperfections

Stones like granite, marble and quartzite are the product of geologic changes which occur over hundreds of thousands (or even millions) of years. Volcanic activity, tectonic plate shifts and subterranean heat and pressure are just a few of the forces which contribute to the formation of these marvelous stones. Given the natural processes which create them, it’s only natural to anticipate that each piece of stone will have an idiosyncratic, totally unique appearance – and this is indeed the case! While natural stone is famed for its distinctive beauty, imperfections in granite countertops and other stone surfaces can be a concern for some. For instance, prospective stone buyers might worry that the “flaws” in natural stone could take away from the unity and elegance of their design. Today, Cosmos Surfaces is here to make the case for accepting & embracing the imperfections in natural stone.

What Imperfections Might Be Found in Natural Stone?

Wondering what exactly we mean by “flaws” in natural stone? Let’s get technical for a moment and discuss the inconsistencies which may be apparent in natural stone, as well as why imperfections in granite countertops and other surfaces can actually be worthy of adoration.

  • Variations in Color – Color intensity and shade can vary between different slabs of the same kind of natural stone, which can be concerning to buyers who want very specific coloring within their design. However, color variation is one of the main factors that makes natural stone so unique. No matter what kind of coloring you find within your natural stone, it is sure to be a beautiful illustration of the natural forces that shaped its creation.
  • Too Much or Too Little Veining – Like color, veining in natural stone is one-of-a-kind and will always vary. Instead of focusing on whether the veining on a surface is “too much” or “too little,” it is best to appreciate the totally unique veining that formed over so many years by the forces of nature. The veining in your natural stone cannot be found anywhere else on earth!
  • Pattern and Color Asymmetry – Asymmetry in interior design is a concept that offers so many unique possibilities, and natural stone is the perfect way to showcase the beauty of asymmetry. Natural stone will never offer a perfectly symmetrical pattern end-to-end, and this is one of the qualities that makes it so special and desirable.
  • Pores & Pits – While natural stone can appear quite smooth, tiny pits and pores are often present on the surface. Certain varieties are more porous than others and thus require sealing to keep out moisture and bacteria. After sealing, some of these tiny blemishes are likely to remain visible upon close inspection – but this only serves to add dimension and character to the stone!
  • Fissures – While far beneath the surface of the Earth, natural stone is often exposed to immense heat and pressure. As a result, natural crevices may form in certain spots or throughout. Known as fissures, these thin lines create intriguing patterns & color variation in the stone. But rest assured: they typically will not interfere with its integrity.
  • Cracks – Natural fissures are not to be confused with cracks, which can appear in natural stone as it is subjected to wear and tear over time. If significant in size, a crack may compromise the stone’s structure, so it is important to be aware of this particular imperfection. Still, cracks in natural stone are typically no big deal and can often be repaired relatively easily.
  • Scratches, Chips & Etches – Natural stone is known to offer impressive durability and longevity – especially the harder types like granite. Even so, chipping, scratching or etching can occur in a high-traffic kitchen. Once again, these flaws can be fixed if they bother you, but they are unlikely to detract from the countertop’s natural beauty in a noticeable way.

Embrace Imperfections in Granite Countertops, Or Not: It’s Up to You!

Crafted by Mother Nature, natural stone surfaces are defined by their imperfections. Without these variations, the slabs would be nowhere near as distinctive, precious or inimitable. Your countertop need not be symmetrical, identical from end to end or perfectly polished in order to be a showstopper. In fact, marble with deep, dramatic and unpredictable veining is all the rage right now, as are boldly colored stone varieties!

Hopefully, this article has given you a new perspective on imperfections in granite countertops. At the same time, it’s totally alright if you prefer a more uniform countertop. If you decide to seek out a surfacing material with a lower degree of variation, you’ll still have plenty of options to choose from! Feel free to explore stone varieties at both ends of the spectrum – and everywhere in between – to help you find what you really love.

The more you explore, the more you’ll get a keen sense for the sort of pattern and coloring which will best suit your personality and design style. Your countertop is the cornerstone of your kitchen, so it’s important to choose something you absolutely adore!

Achieve Your Dream Countertop with Cosmos Surfaces

If you desire to make a statement with natural stone in your interior, Cosmos Surfaces is here to help you bring your vision to life. From the intricate & distinguished Butterfly Gold to the ultra-daring Bacural, our extensive selection of granite and other stunning stone surfaces includes something for every style & setting. To enlist the expertise of one of our surfacing specialists, contact Cosmos Surfaces today.

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Golden Paradise - Gold Quartzite 2

A dazzling sheet of gold, it’s no surprise how Golden Paradise got its name. But it’s not just gold – look deeper to see the crystals of whites and greys that make up this Brazilian quartzite. Golden Paradise makes for spectacular floors, walls, and fireplaces and matches well with blacks and woods. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Choose the Right Natural Stone Patterns for Your Interior Design

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

choose natural stone

It’s no secret that natural stone surfaces can go a long way toward creating a desired aesthetic in the home. The natural stone patterns within those surfaces can further help refine your design style. In this post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces share tips on how to choose natural stone patterns to help you create the exact look and feel you want in any room.   

Design Goals

When considering various stone patterns and finishes, it’s important to understand what your design goals are. For example, if you are hoping to achieve a minimalist look with just a pop of color or texture, you can use natural stone patterns to achieve these highlights. Or, you can opt for simple stone surfaces and play around with furniture or painted accent walls for your color or texture fix. Let’s take a look at a few design styles and which stone patterns and colors can help you achieve them:

Minimalist Spaces

As mentioned above, colors and patterns can be used effectively in a minimalist setting. A dramatic accent wall, for example, can perfectly balance out the simpler design elements in the space. Stones like Magma Gold and Maori (both granites) and Raphael and Oxford Blue (both quartzites) have striking, complex patterns along with gorgeous colors. Any of these stones would work well in a minimalist setting and can be used to create truly breathtaking accent walls or other features like kitchen islands.

Warm, Inviting Spaces

For homeowners who like to entertain or simply want a warm, inviting feel to their space, stones with classic brown tones and consistent patterns can help create this aesthetic. Stones with blue, copper or golden elements in their patterns are both striking and elegant, while retaining a sense of warmth and comfort. Granite products like Vitrium, Lapidus and Giallo Fiorito are all examples of stones that contain gorgeous warm tones within their patterns.

Small Spaces

Using design elements wisely can help smaller spaces look and feel bigger. As an example, a stone surface with a flowing vein pattern can make a kitchen island appear bigger, as well as the room itself. Using vertical veining patterns on stone walls gives a sense of high ceilings, as the vertical lines direct the eye upward and appear to elongate the space.

Invoking Nature

If you’re looking to replicate the look and feel of wood around areas like the fireplace or an indoor garden, stones like Brown Silk (a granite) and Sequoia Brown (a quartzite) are excellent options, as their patterns and textures mimic those of wood. The colors and patterns in these stones in combination with the texture created by a leathered finish can truly bring a natural aesthetic into the home.

Speaking of natural elements, using a stone like Black Marinace (a granite) in or around a water feature, such as a water fountain, adds an elegant touch without the struggle of having to clean pebbles. The pebbled texture of the stone adds detail and depth and brings along with it the durability and ease of maintenance for which granite is so well-loved.

Stones like Rain Forest Green and Café Forest Brown mimic natural elements like leaves and branches and invoke a sense of calm and tranquility. They are perfect for bathroom vanities, kitchens and living rooms.

Conclusion

One of the most impressive features of natural stone is the immense variety created by the natural processes behind stone formation. Long veining patterns are inherently elegant and soothing, while dramatic swirling patterns invoke a flowing sense of movement and energy. Each unique pattern tells the ancient story of its stone.

When it comes to natural stone and interior design, there are multiple steps you can take to craft your desired aesthetic, from the type of stone you select, to the colors and patterns contained within and, finally, the type of finish applied to the stone surface. The options are just about endless!

For more information on the various aspects of using natural stone in interior design, take a look at our post on how to design your home like a professional. If you’d like to know more about how various stone finishes alter the look and feel of natural stone, our blog post on how to choose the perfect stone finish provides a detailed overview.

Cosmos Can Help!

Cosmos Surfaces brings over three decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. As a 2nd generation family-owned business, we are passionate about sourcing high-quality surfaces for your home or business. Get in touch by filling out our contact form today – our team of experts is happy to help you along the journey of designing your dream spaces!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

For those in the market for an exotic, one-of-a-kind granite countertop, Belatrix is a top contender. This natural Brazilian stone features a polished finish and a pattern that is truly extraordinary. Set upon a shining black background are idiosyncratic shapes formed via a melange of rust, burgundy, gray and cream.

Breaking Down the Difference Between Dolomite and Marble

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

difference dolomite marble

As the latest interior design trends shift, marble is making a massive comeback. With many modern homeowners looking to incorporate classic elegance into their designs – while sticking to a budget – demand for quartz that resembles marble has also risen. Dolomite is another coveted natural stone that bears a striking resemblance to marble. Falling somewhere between quartzite and marble in terms of price tag & properties, dolomite is well suited to a variety of design projects. Read on for a comprehensive explanation of the difference between dolomite and marble, followed by a sneak peek at the gorgeous styles of dolomite available from Cosmos Surfaces. 

Breaking Down the Difference Between Dolomite and Marble

Created when limestone and lime mud interact with magnesium-rich groundwater, dolomite is a sedimentary rock known for its characteristic white and gray coloring. While often mistaken for marble or quartzite, this natural stone has distinct features which separate it from all others. Without further ado, let’s explore the difference between dolomite and marble by discussing how the two stones compare in a few categories. You may find that either dolomite or marble is better suited for your design project.

Maintenance & Longevity

With proper care, a dolomite countertop will offer a long and beautiful lifespan – often outperforming marble in the long term. Thanks to its higher level of non-porosity, dolomite can generally withstand liquids & acids more successfully than marble over time. Still, this stone is not totally maintenance free. It does require sealing on a regular basis to preserve its pristine appearance.

Hardness & Durability

Dolomite ranks higher than marble on the durability scale, largely due to its dense mineral composition. Slightly hHarder than most marbles, dolomites tend to resist scratches and heat more readily. However, this stone is not quite on par with the density & durability of granite and quartzite. In other words, it’s a good middle-of-the-road option for kitchen and bathroom renovation projects when it comes to durability.

Affordability

Generally speaking, dolomite tends to be more affordable than some coveted marbles and other premium stones, such as quartz and granite. But keep in mind: pricing will vary depending on the specific usage and the stone variety you select.

Color Scheme

Highly befitting the creation of a sophisticated interior, dolomite is most often gray, white and/or tan in color. Less commonly, it can be found with tinges of pink, brown, black or green. Dolomite typically has a streaked pattern reminiscent of many beloved varieties of marble. For homeowners who yearn for the regal look of marble, dolomite delivers – with the significant bonus of being less fragile and longer lasting, all at a generally lower price point.

Hopefully, our overview of how dolomite and marble differ has given you an idea of which stone might work best for your purposes. If you enjoyed this resource, be sure to check out our blog for more helpful articles on surfacing and design topics! 

See for Yourself How Captivating Dolomite Can Be

Considering that white and gray stone with prominent veining is among what’s trending for fall 2020, now is a fantastic time to consider dolomite for your next interior design project. The wide selection of high-quality natural stone from Cosmos Surfaces features several uniquely striking varieties of dolomite, including Luce Di Luna.

captivating dolomite

Luce Di Luna is an intricately textured dolomite featuring a pattern defined by lines which often intersect and intrigue the eye. Fittingly, the name of this stone translates to “light from the moon,” which aptly describes its subtle yet memorable gray and white coloring. The hues and properties of this natural stone make it a terrific choice for countertops, floors and interior walls throughout the home.

Our Experts Are Here to Help You Locate the Best Material for Your Project

Is dolomite right for your application, or might another material be a better fit for your needs and decorating style? Ultimately, the answer to this question will depend on exactly what you are looking to achieve in your project.

If you’d like to work with a knowledgeable professional as you make this important decision, our trusted stone supplier is here to provide experience-backed assistance. Reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today to get started with a member of our team!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Tiger Eye - Gold Semi-Precious 3

A semi-precious quartz gemstone, Tiger Eye is amber and gold in color. Its lustrous hues have a cat’s eye quality, making it the perfect match with browns and reds. The striking appearance of Tiger Eye goes unmistakably well with wood cabinets and looks great in kitchens and bathrooms. The polished finish makes it smooth and silky to the touch.

How to Clean Quartz Surfaces: Do’s and Don’ts

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

clean quartz

Quartz is a gorgeous, versatile surface celebrated for its ease of maintenance. In this post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces discuss the do’s and don’ts of how to clean quartz surfaces in your home.

Quartz vs. Quartzite

A quick note, for starters: quartz and quartzite are often mistaken as being the same, but they are different. Quartzite forms due to natural processes when quartz-rich sandstone is exposed to high pressure and heat over time. Quartz is actually engineered – that is to say, it’s man-made by combining quartz minerals with binding agents, resins and sometimes pigments. For a more in-depth look at the difference between the two surfaces, take a look at our blog post on quartz vs. quartzite.

The Advantages of Quartz

Quartz achieves the elegant aesthetic of natural stone, but with one big advantage – resin binders make the surface non-porous. This means that while most natural stones, like quartzite, need to be sealed with some regularity, quartz does not. This surface is inherently protected against the mold, mildew, bacteria, staining and odors that can occur in porous stones. That said, regular cleaning and maintenance remains necessary to protect your investment and keep your surfaces looking clean and new.

How to Clean Quartz: The Do’s

Let’s take a look at some routine maintenance and cleaning tips:

  • DO wipe up spills as soon as possible. Although quartz is stain-resistant, it’s still wise to wipe up spills before they have a chance to dry. Mild dishwashing detergent and a soft cloth or sponge will do the trick in most cases.
  • DO use warm water, mild soap, and a non-abrasive kitchen sponge. Use these items in the event of any spills or stains.
  • DO use a mild degreasing product for cooking grease residue. As always, be sure to follow the product manufacturer’s instructions.
  • DO use small amounts of Barkeeper’s Friend, rubbing alcohol, and a soft cloth or Magic Eraser for stains like permanent marker or ink. Always ensure a product is safe to use on your surface material and reach out to a manufacturer if you are uncertain! Barkeeper’s friend is a little grainy, do not apply too much pressure while using this product as it may cause small scratches on the quartz surface.
  • DO be sure to rinse quartz surfaces thoroughly with water. You should always remove any residue or film left behind by cleaners.
  • DO use coasters, cutting boards, trivets and cooling racks. This will protect your countertops from everyday wear and tear.
  • Aside from daily wiping, DO perform a deep clean at regular intervals. You can spray a non-abrasive surface cleaner and allow it to sit for roughly ten minutes, then wipe the counter with a non-abrasive sponge and rinse with warm water.

The Don’ts

It’s important to note that the quartz mineral in your surface may be able to withstand cleaners and elements like heat far better than the resin used in manufactured quartz countertops. This means that while something might be safe to use or do on the quartz itself, it can still damage your surface or weaken the bonds between the quartz and resin fillers surrounding it.

Let’s take a look at what NOT to do:

  • Don’t use abrasive, acidic, or alkaline cleaners, or bleach.
  • Don’t use scouring pads, as these can damage and dull the surface.
  • Don’t expose the surface to extreme heat, such as by placing hot pans directly on a counter. Instead, use cooling racks and trivets.
  • Don’t expose quartz surfaces to outdoor elements. Quartz is recommended for indoor use. Prolonged exposure to elements like direct sunlight outdoors can lead to warping or cracking.

How to Remove Stubborn Stains

Owing to its non-porosity, manufactured quartz is highly stain-resistant, but certain substances can still leave a mark. The most common stain offenders include hot sauce, vibrant spices like turmeric, curry powder and paprika, permanent marker, food coloring, colored make-up and nail polish. If you find yourself struggling with a stubborn stain, take a look at our detailed post on how to remove stains from quartz.

Conclusion

Quartz is an excellent option for those seeking the timeless, elegant aesthetic of natural stone combined with easy maintenance. Regular cleaning and care will future-proof your investment and keep your quartz surfaces looking fresh and new for many years to come.

Cosmos Surfaces offers a range of quartz products in gorgeous patterns and colors to suit any design style. If you have questions about the care and maintenance of quartz, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our team is always happy to help.

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Palomino is comprised of a rich golden color that will astound and amaze in any space. With a crystalline structure creating diamonds and shapes across the surface, browns and whites swirl with gold to create texture and depth. Palomino is bold and striking – the perfect fit for a room with pizazz, style, and personality. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Which Surfacing Materials are Trending for Fall?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

surfacing material fall

As with fashion, trends in home design tend to come and go – often syncing up with the changing seasons. But over the years, natural stone has maintained a place among the most popular surfacing materials for kitchen & bathroom renovation projects. Given the extensive advantages of using natural stones like granite & marble, trends are unlikely to change their popularity. Still, for homeowners who love to stay hip to all the latest styles, it’s exciting to track how the use of various surfacing materials is evolving over time! Cosmos Surfaces is here to give you an insider’s look at all of the latest industry trends for the upcoming season.

Fall 2020: Marble Trends & Other Surfacing Material Shifts

As technology continues to progress and contemporary design styles change, it’s only natural for new stone trends to emerge. Here are a few noteworthy shifts we are seeing this season:

  • Natural stone is gaining a lead over quartz – Slowly but surely, quartz is becoming slightly less popular than natural stone. Granite and marble are gaining momentum as countless homeowners favor them for their natural, one-of-a-kind beauty and sustainability. Demand for quartz remains very high for commercial applications, but homeowners are now researching and opting to visit stone yards which promise more natural and eco-friendly options.
  • Porcelain slabs are really catching on – Along with natural stone, porcelains are also trending right now. This is likely owing in part to manufacturing advances which allow the slabs to be made to look virtually identical to naturally occurring stone. More and more frequently, large format porcelain is being utilized for new construction projects, often in settings where quartz or porcelain tile would typically have been used in the past.
  • Marbles have come back in a huge way – As it makes a major comeback, this classic material is being used in fresh new ways to lend it modern flair. Current marble trends include utilizing colored marble, adorning surfaces with symmetrical bookmatched stone and choosing bolder marble varieties with dramatic, intense veining.
  • The demand for marble looking quartz is at an all-time high – Also happening in the realm of prominent marble trends this season: more homeowners than ever before are seeking out quartz that mimics the look of marble. Hardwearing, but less hard in appearance than marble, quartz is non-porous and highly resilient. For homeowners desiring a more durable material that replicates the elegant look of marble, engineered quartz delivers the best of both worlds.
  • Textured stone finishes are in high demand – Leathered and honed finishes are becoming more popular, suggesting that homeowners are craving more texture in their designs. Check out our blog post on stone finishes to learn about the many different options which can be used to make a statement with natural stone designs!
  • Quartzite is becoming more alluring – With improved treatments and a larger variety of styles available, quartzite is another popular natural stone selection this season. This is no big surprise, given the supreme durability and standout appearance of this material.

Choosing a Surfacing Material: Should I Follow the Trends?

When seeking out the most ideal surfacing material for your project, looking at what is currently trending can be beneficial to give you some inspiration. But ultimately, trends don’t last forever. There’s absolutely no need to feel pressured to choose something that’s in vogue at this very moment!

More than what is trending, you should consider your own personal design preferences and what functional features you desire from the surfacing material. If you’re taking on a renovation project, it’s also important to think about how the material you choose will mesh with the other elements in your current or planned design scheme. Finally, you’ll want to be sure to factor in how well the material is likely to hold up over time, in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.

Look to Cosmos Surfaces for Professional Assistance with Any Project

Whether you are eager to upgrade your kitchen countertop, transform your outdoor living space or refresh some other part of your home, Cosmos Surfaces provides an extensive selection of stunning, competitively priced natural stone and other surfacing materials. For expert assistance choosing the very best option for your particular project, reach out to our team today!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Experience the singular beauty of Sedna, an exquisite vein of molten gold running through pitch black and rich brown granite. Like a wealth of brilliant magma trapped just below the surface of the earth, black Sedna is a rare and powerful treasure, embodying the most raw and powerful forces of nature.

Fall Color Trends for Interior Design

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

fall color trends

The fall season conjures up vivid color palettes like no other. Warm earth tones and elegant neutrals form the basis of fall color trends. When it comes to interior design, using these colors well can inspire warmth, comfort and flexibility in your home year-round. In this post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces provide a quick guide to some of our most popular fall-friendly products, along with 3 design tips to help cozy up your home this season.

Fall Color Trends in Natural Stone and Surfaces

First, let’s take a look at the most popular stone colors trending this fall:

White Stone

The most popular option, by far, remains white stone. White stone surfaces in the home can brighten up your space and help create a fresh, clean look and feel. A neutral color like white can ensure a timeless, elegant aesthetic that pairs well with any color palette or design style.

For those who enjoy texture and depth, white stone is by no means lacking in this department. Natural stone is typically off-white, or near-white and can exhibit gorgeous, complex textures from grain patterns and veining. A few examples of white stone available at Cosmos Surfaces include:

Granite:

Marble:

Quartz:

Earth Tones and Warm Color Tones

Earth tones have long been associated with fall-inspired palettes. The use of earth tones and warmer colors within permanent fixtures in the home have been increasing in popularity. Using these tones with interior design creates a warm, cozy and inviting space with a natural look and feel. Let’s take a look at a few options by stone type:

Granite

Marble

Grey and Black Stones

Grey and black stones are steadily increasing in popularity. These elegant neutral colors can create the same warm, natural aesthetic as warm colors and earth tones, but may allow for a bit more freedom when it comes to pairing up décor year-round. Just a few of the grey and black options by stone type available through Cosmos include:

Granite

Marble

Quartz

Additional Tips for a Cozy Home

Aside from the color and type of stone you decide on, factors like vein patterns and the type of finish applied to a stone can help alter the look and feel of your space. If you want to achieve a warm, cozy fall aesthetic, here are three additional tips to help you get from here to hygge:

  1. Textured Stone Finishes

Various types of finishes can be applied to natural stone before it makes it into your home. Stone can be polished for a glossy look, honed for a silky matte finish or even flamed, a process where a high-temperature flame is applied to the stone, resulting in a highly textured surface.

Two stone finishes that are trending this season are leathered, and honed finishes. Honed finishes create silky, matte stone surfaces. This helps create a warmer, cozier feel than say, a polished finish. A leathered finish creates a suede look and feel and is slip-resistant. Again, this finish helps give your space that warm, inviting feel we all crave when the weather gets colder. It’s important to note that a leathered finish can only be applied to some varieties of marble and granite. For an in-depth look at the different types of stone finishes, check out our post on Everything You Need to Know About Stone Finishes.

  1. Neutral Colors

Opting for neutral colors like white, black or grey can leave you with lots of freedom and flexibility when it comes to year-round décor. Unless you plan on sticking with a specific interior color scheme in the long-term, using neutral colors for permanent fixtures like countertops, backsplash and fireplace mantels can help you achieve the style you want in every season.

  1. Grain Patterns and Veining

Silver Waves - Black Granite 6

Sticking to neutral colors or a timeless white stone surface doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice texture and color. Grain patterns and veining can add a touch of color and movement to a space, and even provide design cues when it comes to choosing colors for furniture, walls and other types of décor. Granite products like Silver Waves and Viscon White are excellent examples of stones with inherent patterns that evoke movement.

Work with Cosmos!

Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, meaningful customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of products and resources to assist our customers with their surface material needs.  Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Magma Gold - Gold Granite 2

Like molten magma swirling and pooling deep within the Earth’s crust, Magma Gold granite is fierce and fervent. In its larger-than-life pattern, deep gray veins stretch in all directions, surrounding and blending into areas of rust, cream and gold. Specks of white on the gray add even more visual interest, putting the finishing touches on this excellent option for counter and vanity tops.

How Does Granite Get Its Colors?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

granite colors

Granite is one of the most popular natural stone surfaces out there, but what colors does granite come in and how does it get those colors? In this post, the experts at Cosmos Surfaces delve into the science behind this incredible stone.

In the realm of natural stone surfaces, granite is a bit of a legend. It’s highly durable: heat-, crack- and scratch-resistant. In fact, granite is second only to diamonds in hardness! It’s been in use for structures like buildings and statues for thousands of years. Even today, granite is still commonly found in bridges, buildings, monuments and countless other outdoor applications. When it comes to interiors, granite makes an excellent choice for kitchen countertops, floor tiles, backsplash, mantelpieces and so much more. The stone is not only versatile in its uses, but also comes in a gorgeous array of colors and patterns. Let’s take a closer look:

What is Granite?

Granite is an igneous rock – that is to say, it’s a type of magmatic rock, formed by the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth’s surface. The stone comes in an array of striking colors, including white, pink, grey and black. The color of granite can provide information on its mineralogy and origin. Conversely, the types and amounts of minerals present in granite will determine its color.

The slow, subterranean cooling process behind granite allows for different types of minerals to form at different stages, greatly altering the look of the resulting stone. This is why granite has visible mineral grains. Molten rock that is expelled during a volcanic eruption cools at a much faster rate without allowing time for minerals to form. Extrusive rock, or molten volcanic rock that cools after being expelled above the surface, results in a homogenous stone that does not contain visible mineral grains. The size of mineral grains visible in granite depends on how slowly the molten rock cooled beneath the surface, and thus how much time minerals were given to form.

What Colors Does Granite Come In?

Granite is typically a conglomerate of quartz, mica, feldspar, amphiboles and other trace minerals. Those commonly found in granite and their colors include the following:

  • Quartz – milky white
  • Feldspar – opaque and usually off-white
  • Amphibole – black or dark green
  • Potassium Feldspar – salmon pink
  • Muscovite – yellow or metallic gold
  • Biotite – dark brown or black
  • Garnet – deep red

Different combinations and amounts of these minerals will determine the coloring of the resulting stone. Let’s break down a few common types of granite and what they are made of:

White Granite

Moon White – A white granite gets its color from high quantities of quartz, a milky white mineral, and feldspar, which is an opaque off-white mineral. White granite is likely to also contain darker specks or grains – traces of other minerals like amphibole that did not fully form during the cooling process. Rock that is entirely white without such grains is likely man-made and meant to imitate real granite.

white granite

Pink Granite

High levels of potassium feldspar give Vyara Gold granite a salmon pink coloring, though specks or grains of other minerals like quartz, amphibole or feldspar can often also be seen.

pink granite

Black and White Granite

This is one of the most common types of granite and often makes an appearance in granite countertops. Equal parts quartz (milky white), feldspar (opaque white) and amphibole (dark brown or black) can create a speckled black and white granite similar to Silver Waves.

black and white granite

Red Granite

Granite with high levels of pink potassium feldspar can take on a red coloring. In these cases, the k-feldspar is red, rather than pink as seen in Typhoon Bordeaux. Red coloring in granite can also come from iron oxide in hematite grains or within feldspar. Garnet is another family of minerals that often adds deep red coloring to granite. For example, Moon White Ivory granite is defined by starry yellow and ivory white, accompanied by flecks and spots of gray and burgundy coloring from garnet minerals.

ivory granite

Conclusion

Granite is one of the most popular natural stone surface choices, with colors that result naturally from its mineral content. Aside from its practical advantages, granite has an elegant, timeless aesthetic that can elevate any space for generations to come. If you want to learn more about granite, check out our posts on how to maintain granite countertops, what granite is used for and this one on black granite!

Cosmos Surfaces is a proud supplier of the finest natural stone surfaces available. Contact us today for more information on our range of granite products!

Color of the Month: Lark

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 16-1324, Lark! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Authentic and low-key, Lark is an understated and versatile khaki.”

Appealing to those who appreciate the finer things in life, Black Galaxy is the embodiment of high elegance. Flecks of silver and white shine like diamonds in the foreground, playing the foil to an even-keeled gray-black backdrop. Available in a polished or leathered finish, this wow-worthy natural stone from India is well suited to backsplashes, floors and walls in the kitchen or bathroom.

The How and Why Behind Sealing Soapstone

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

sealing soapstone

When selecting a surfacing material, it’s important to be in the know about what type of initial treatment and maintenance might be needed to maximize its performance, beauty and longevity. For countertops and other design projects, one vital question is whether or not sealing is required. Ultimately, the answer will depend on the qualities of the chosen material, as well as the specific application. Today, we’re going to focus on soapstone. Given that it’s a popular choice for countertops and other projects, homeowners commonly wonder – does soapstone need to be sealed?

Read on for an in-depth explanation of why the experts at Cosmos Surfaces do NOT recommend sealing soapstone, plus tips on maintaining the natural beauty and shine of this stone over the years.

Does Soapstone Need to Be Sealed? The Answer Explained

Whether soapstone is used for a kitchen countertop, a sink, a backsplash or some other building project, sealing is not necessary. Because this stone is dense and nonporous, it comes naturally equipped with a barrier against liquids and stains. In fact, the stone is composed primarily of hydrophobic talc, which lends it amazing water-repelling properties!

Thanks to its mineral composition and nonporosity, there is no need for soapstone to be sealed to keep moisture, bacteria and food particles from penetrating its surface, as is often required for porous stones such as granite and marble. This makes it a favorable option for homeowners wishing to skip sealing as part of routine maintenance for their countertops.

How to Keep Soapstone Looking Vibrant

Now that we’ve explained the answer to “does soapstone need to be sealed?,” let’s discuss the methods which should be used to maintain this natural stone:

  • Oiling – While soapstone is known for being resistant to staining and chemical etching, its high talc content can make it vulnerable to scratching and chipping. Fortunately, it’s easy to disguise any small scratches which appear on the surface, and to preserve the luster of soapstone. Simply applying a thin coating of food-grade mineral oil to the stone on a regular basis will maintain its sheen and cover up any imperfections. Oiling will also speed up the natural oxidation process, thus darkening the stone’s color uniformly across the surface and highlighting its unique beauty.
  • Cleaning – After treating your soapstone with mineral oil, we recommend using a mild cleanser to remove any excess oil. For everyday cleaning, a quick wipe down with soap and water will typically do the trick to keep the stone looking fresh. A stiff-bristled brush may also be used to scrub away any stubborn spots on a soapstone sink.

For more information on the benefits of soapstone and how it is best maintained, check out our previous post on this topic!

Will Soapstone Stand the Test of Time?

When properly maintained using the methods described above, soapstone will hold up well even in a high-traffic kitchen. Still, it’s important to keep in mind that this surfacing material is not quite as hardwearing as certain other natural stones. Whereas granite is highly resistant to chips, gouges and scratches, soapstone is a bit softer and thus more vulnerable to damage.

The good news is that repairing any signs of minor wear and tear is well within reach for homeowners who are willing to take on basic DIY repair jobs. As previously mentioned, mineral oil is highly effective for disguising the minor scratches that abrasives can leave behind on soapstone.

For more prominent marks, fine grain sandpaper can be used to restore the smoothness and uniformity of the stone. And for chips and gouges, a simple filling mixture of epoxy and stone chips will bring the surface back to a like-new appearance. While you may be tempted to do these fixes on your own, leaving a professional to sandpaper or fill the gouges in your countertop will guarantee a good end result. Be sure to consult your installer/fabricator for specific instructions on how to repair any damage that happens to your soapstone surface.

Partner with Cosmos Surfaces to Find the Perfect Stone Surface for Your Project

Are you curious to learn more about soapstone and find out if it’s an ideal choice for the project you are planning? Count on the stone specialists at Cosmos Surfaces for professional advice and the highest quality materials! Our vast natural stone collection features several elegant varieties of soapstone, including black, grey and jade. Feel free to browse our stunning selection on our website, and reach out to us anytime for expert assistance.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Tranquil, calming, and peaceful – this is what Beverly Blue brings to mind. Gold and silver cutting through a blue so soft it’s nearly gray, Beverly Blue resembles the icy wall of a glacier. The gentle tones of Beverly Blue look great installed as kitchen countertops, especially next to striking blacks and stainless steel. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Future-proofing Your Investment: To Do and Not To Do

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

future proof

When it comes to natural stone care and maintenance, regular attention goes a long way. A natural stone surface is an investment that can last for many years. If properly cared for, it can last for generations! In this post, we look at what you can do to future-proof your investment, and what to avoid.

Natural stone can be classified as either siliceous stone, or calcareous stone. It’s important to know which category your stone surfaces fall under, as each requires its own approach to cleaning and maintenance.

Siliceous Stone

Stone in this category is mainly composed of silica or quartz-like particles. Siliceous stone types include granite and quartzite. These stones tend to be durable and easy-to-clean with mild, acidic solutions.

Calcareous Stone

Stone in this category is mainly composed of calcium carbonate. Marble, limestone and onyx are all calcareous stone types and require a different approach to cleaning than siliceous stone types. Notably, they are sensitive to acidic cleaning products.

Aside from understanding which category your stone surface falls under, there’s plenty you can do for all types of surfaces to protect your investment from the wear and tear of daily life. Let’s take a look:

DO:

  • Do know what type of stone you have
  • Do clean spills immediately
  • Do seal stone when needed
  • Do use coasters and placemats
  • Do use trivets and cooling racks
  • Do place non-slip mats and area rugs on stone flooring
  • Do clean frequently with mild detergent or appropriate stone soap
  • Do rinse with clean water and dry your surfaces thoroughly after cleaning
  • Do consult with manufacturers for proper care instructions

DON’T:

  • Don’t use vinegar, lemon juice or acidic cleaners on calcareous stone like marble, limestone or onyx
  • Don’t use abrasive cleaners
  • Don’t use acidic cleaners such as tub and tile cleaners, bathroom cleaners or grout cleaners on natural stone
  • Don’t place hot pots, pans, trays or plates directly on stone
  • Don’t allow water to collect on the surface for long periods of time
  • Don’t mix bleach and ammonia when cleaning (this creates a toxic, lethal gas)
  • Don’t mix chemical cleaners unless instructed to do so by the product directions
  • Don’t use an old vacuum on stone surfaces, or even a new model without extreme caution – a vacuum’s attachments or wheels can scratch stone flooring

Next, let’s look at general cleaning guidelines for countertops, floors, bathrooms/wet areas, and outdoor surfaces:

Countertops

Clean countertops regularly with a few drops of mild detergent, appropriate stone cleaner or a neutral cleaner and warm water. It’s best to use a soft cloth and stay away from scouring powders and creams, as these contain abrasives. Keep in mind that acidic food and drinks can etch and dull the surface of calcareous stone types. Take extra care when working with such food and drink, and blot spills up immediately.

Flooring

When it comes to natural stone flooring, trekked-in dirt, sand and grit can damage your surface with scratches. You can minimize these effects by placing non-slip mats and rugs near entrances to catch outdoor debris. Carpeted runners that extend from each outside door into the home can aid in cleaning and drying foot soles before they reach stone flooring. For outdoor flooring, be sure to remove standing water, ice or snow as soon as possible.

To clean flooring, dust mop floors frequently using a dry dust mop. Wash floors with clean water and appropriate neutral cleaners, then rinse thoroughly, dry floors with a soft cloth and allow to air dry completely before resuming use.

Bathrooms and Wet Areas

Soap scum tends to accumulate in these areas and can be removed with a squeegee and non-acidic soap scum remover. A solution of ammonia and water can also be used, but keep in mind that using ammonia frequently can dull the surface.

Outdoor Pool and Patio Areas

Flush these areas with clean water to get rid of dust and debris. A mild bleach solution can be used to remove algae or moss growth, but it’s important to ensure you can use bleach on your type of stone. When in doubt, always check with your manufacturer or supplier!

Natural Stone Care and Maintenance: Conclusion

Take good care of your natural stone surfaces and they will reward you with generations of elegance and beauty. For more cleaning and maintenance tips, take a look at these posts from our blog:

If you have any questions about the care and maintenance of natural stone, reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We bring decades of expertise to the table, and our team of experts is always happy to answer questions about future-proofing your beautiful investments.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Java Blue - Blue Quartzite 4

Java Blue is a compilation of several blues and soft crystal colors. Primarily a calming light blue, Java Blue is cut through with streaks and spots of navy and gold. Upon closer inspection, the crystals are apparent and beautiful. Java Blue is great for aquatic environments and looks great poolside as a fountain, waterfall, or exterior countertop. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched

Design Your Home Like a Professional

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

design home

For many homeowners, designing their perfect home is a lifelong dream. Once they move into their first place, whether it’s a college apartment or starter home, they start to think about where to place things for optimal convenience and comfort.  The trick to how to do your own interior design, many interior designers say, is to consider each room as you plan to live in it as early in the process as possible.

“Even small details should be introduced into the home planning in the early stages of programming,” recommends Suzanne Shumaker of Shumaker Design + Build Associates, an architect led design-build firm that she and her husband Garry founded in Evanston, Illinois, 2009.

She asks clients to consider things such as how you would like to enter your home — from the garage/rear of house or the front? And, where do you want all your stuff to land when you enter? Why do the answers matter? They can help direct long-term decisions. For example, clients may want more durable materials like natural stone to be the surface they land on or a place to leave wet shoes before transitioning to wood floors, according to Shumaker.

“Circulation and traffic patterns organized to areas that are out of the kitchen triangle are important,” she adds. “Living rooms and sitting rooms need to fall into more quiet zones. A zone can be defined for reading or small gatherings with a good furniture plan. Laying out furniture early in the design process helps you determine where to add electrical outlets and overhead lighting.”

Whether you’re thinking about a remodel or designing an entire house, we asked three interior designers what you might want to consider as you work on each major room.

Design Your Home Like a Professional

Kitchen

When designing a kitchen, you have to consider function first, according to Annilee B Waterman, RID, an interior designer and owner of AW Design Studio in Dallas, Texas. “A beautiful kitchen is no good if you can’t use it properly,” Waterman says. “Your sink, fridge and range should create a nice work triangle, and make sure you have plenty of landing space on both sides of each.”

One thing clients often overlook are using drawers for their lower cabinets. “Drawers offer great, versatile storage, and help keep your kitchen organized,” she adds. Also, using the countertop natural stone as the backsplash creates a beautiful, clean and classic look that is easy to keep clean (no grout!).

Cris Williams, interior designer with The Life at Home in Houston, Texas, feels the kitchen is the hub of the home and agrees functionality is key.

“Consider the layout. Do you want to be able to interact with friends and family while you cook?” Williams advises. “Opening the kitchen to a living space is a great way to achieve this. Storage is another huge factor of functionality. Take an inventory of what you need in your kitchen and make sure you will have ample storage space to fit those things.”

For those who want to add a little more fun into their space, Williams feels the backsplash is an opportunity to get creative and adventurous. You can use many natural stones on the backsplash that wouldn’t hold up as a counter material. “Also, certain stones that may be a bit pricier as a countertop could be affordable as an accent on the backsplash,” she adds.

Bathroom

When designing a bathroom space, begin by considering what access, if any, you have to natural light. If a window might be located where the shower will be, natural stone window sills and jambs can help protect those windows, according to Shumaker. Also, even if you don’t have children, one tub in the house is a must for resale and young kids, she says.

Williams feels the bathroom should be a functional sanctuary. “We often don’t think of universal design when designing bathrooms unless we are older or impaired,” she says. “We will all, hopefully, grow old one day and having a bathroom that works for us in that stage is important.”

Bathrooms are another room in the home where homeowners can showcase natural stone. “Countertops, shower walls, and flooring are all excellent places to feature stone,” adds Williams.

Living Room

“Modern-day living rooms are usually informal and serve as an everyday gathering space for the family,” says Williams. Again, since storage is important throughout the house, she recommends built-in storage as a great way to keep all the everyday things put away and your space tidy.

Williams suggests that a fireplace is a great place to use natural stone in a living room, and her favorite design element is when it’s used to top a floating cabinet. “This creates a space that is equally functional and luxurious,” she says.

The direction of natural light can’t be dismissed, according to Williams and Shumaker. “The direction of natural light and the placement of televisions seems to be an afterthought in many homes,” Williams notices. While she admits the annoying tv glare seems small in the scheme of designing an entire house, it becomes a bigger deal when it’s happening and you could have designed the space to avoid that glare.

To help manage it, Shumaker recommends motorized window treatments that can adjust to the day’s sunlight as an option.

Bedroom

For many, the bedroom isn’t high on their list to “design,” per se. But it’s a missed opportunity when it’s not considered in the overall scheme of a home’s design and functionality. Be sure not to overlook the bedroom when figuring out how to do your own interior design.

“A bedroom should be a restful sanctuary,” says Williams. “Where you place the bedroom could have a huge effect on that. Do you want direct morning light? Or would you rather have a north/south facing room with indirect light?”

Also, consider what types of features you’d like in or near the bedroom.

“In new homes, I’m either moving the laundry to near the main bedroom, or adding an additional laundry space (one in the mud room/utility, one near the bedrooms, or one inside the master closet),” says Waterman.

Shumaker likes to ask clients if they would like to include a fireplace where you could highlight natural stone. Or if they might have other needs, such as adding a desk or sitting area for reading.

Figuring Out How To Do Your Own Interior Design? Ask a Designer!

“Designing a home is a big project that you want to get right the first time,” admits Williams. Rather than rush through the process, she recommends homeowners take their time, and if they’re unsure about how to design a space, to reach out to an interior designer who can offer advice and suggestions they might not have even considered.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

The resemblance to the Northern Lights is how Aurora gets its name. A type of quartzite, Aurora is majestic and divine. Black, teal, silver, white, and soft pink meld together to create the picture of the night sky come to life by the Aurora Borealis. Aurora makes alluring and captivating countertops and backsplashes. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Choose the Perfect Stone Finish

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

perfect stone finish

In our last blog, we talked about the different types of stone finishes and how they are created. When choosing between stone finishes, the biggest deciding factors include the location and application of the stone surface. Each finish also creates its own look and texture, which can go a long way toward building a desired aesthetic. In this post, we’ll recap the main features of common stone finishes and provide a guide to their various applications.

Polished Stone Finishes

Features:

  • The most common finish
  • Glossy, mirror-like shine
  • Provides a classy, sophisticated look
  • Reflects light and does not change or hide the true colors and qualities of the stone
  • Provides a smooth work surface
  • Protects the stone against spills and stains
  • Easy to clean

Applications:

  • Countertops – Polished stone is a popular choice for countertops, as it creates a beautiful, elegant look, draws attention to the stone without distorting its properties and creates a smooth, less porous work surface resistant to moisture and staining. In addition, polished finishes make countertops easy to wipe down!
  • Flooring – This finish can also be used for flooring to create an elegant, formal look.

Honed Finishes

Features:

  • Provides less shine/gloss than a polished surface
  • Has a muted, softer look
  • Retains the character of the stone
  • May not show color and texture as well a polished finish does
  • Provides a smooth work surface

Applications:

  • Countertops and Backsplashes – Honed finishes, especially honed granite, work well for countertops, as they provide a smooth work surface. They may not show the true color and qualities of the stone as well as a polished surface does, but they retain the essential character of the stone. A honed finish creates a muted, softer look which can give your space a relaxed, casual feel without sacrificing the elegance of the stone.
  • Flooring – A honed finish leaves the stone less slippery than a polished surface does, which makes it a good choice for flooring. The less reflective surface can also help conceal flaws and evidence of wearing due to foot traffic, such as scratches or scuff marks.

Leathered Finishes

Features:

  • Also known as a “brushed” finish
  • Not glossy and has little to no shine
  • Has more depth than a honed finish
  • Shows less staining, scratches and fingerprints than a polished surface
  • Does not have a smooth surface
  • May be more difficult to clean due to natural pits and fissures

Applications:

  • Bar Tops and Fireplace Surrounds – A leathered finish makes for a lovely room accent in the form of a bar top or fireplace surround. Its depth and more matte appearance looks beautiful under lower lighting conditions.
  • Bathrooms – The textured surface of a leathered finish makes it less slippery, which is a desirable characteristic in spaces like bathrooms.

Tumbled Finishes

Features:

  • Leaves edges of stone rough and chipped, creating a weathered, aged look
  • Does not have a smooth finish
  • Hides signs of wear and tear

Applications:

  • Flooring – The aged, distressed look of a tumbled finish can hide signs of wear and tear in high traffic areas and create a rustic, charming appearance.
  • Bathrooms – This textured finish leaves surfaces less slippery, which works well in bathrooms.
  • Backsplash – A tumbled finish can be used with backsplash to create a rustic, charming look and feel.

Bush Hammered Finishes

Features:

  • Creates a bumpy surface
  • Can be fine or coarse, with extreme or shallow grooves

Applications:

  • Walls or Flooring – This finish works well for walls or flooring and can be used for both interior and exterior surfaces.

Flamed Finishes

Features:

  • Textured, slightly bumpy surface
  • Can lighten the stone and create a natural, faded appearance

Applications:

  • Outdoors – This finish creates a non-slip surface and works well for outdoor applications like exterior walls, floors and pavers. It would be an excellent choice for an outdoor kitchen.

Sandblasted Finishes

Features:

  • Silky, matte finish
  • Can be coarse, which creates a lighter finish, or fine, which leaves a darker finish

Applications:

  • Monuments, Artwork and Gravestones – Sandblasted stone has tiny craters in its surface, which creates the matte, silky appearance often sought after for monument work, artwork, statues and gravestones.

A Note on Maintenance

The porosity of a stone plays a role in its ability to resist moisture and staining. A polished finish typically seals most pores in the stone, making it easy to clean and less susceptible to staining and moisture damage. Honed surfaces are more porous and may take on dark spots or staining more easily when exposed to moisture or certain foods, spices and drinks. Textured finishes can be slightly more difficult to clean, as they feature pits, fissures and grooves which can collect dust, moisture and staining agents. However, a regular quick wipe down of any natural stone makes cleaning much easier over time.

Stone Type

It’s important to note not all types of natural stone can accept all types of finishes. Depending on the specific stone, it might be wise to reach out to a manufacturer about which finishes are suitable. Here’s a quick guide:

stone chart

If you have questions about stone finishes and their applications, please reach out to Cosmos Surfaces today! We offer a wide selection of stunning natural stone and our team of experts is always happy to help.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Alpine Blue - Blue Granite

Alpine Blue granite is the definition of understated sophistication. Exquisite flashes of olive oil gold and deep indigo unfold across a canvas of speckled cream in this magnificent natural stone from India. Ground your home or commercial space by adding Alpine Blue to your countertops, floors or other parts of the property.

Everything You Need to Know About Stone Finishes

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

types of stone

Incorporating a naturally occurring stone such as granite, marble or onyx into your home design is a nod to our planet’s sublime beauty. While all kinds of natural stone are awe-inspiringly beautiful, each has its own distinct properties and intricacies. Depending on the look and mood you are aspiring to create – as well as the particular application – a certain kind of natural stone may stand out as being the most ideal for your project. Once you choose a stone, there are different types of stone finishes available for your consideration. Let’s explore the options and discuss how the finish you select will help define your natural stone design.

The Different Types of Stone Finishes

First things first, we’d like to introduce the types of stone finishes you can choose from when making a design statement with natural stone:

  • Sandblasted – As the name implies, sandblasting involves the application of a high-pressure stream of water mixed with sand. Reminiscent of a sand dune, a sandblasted stone surface appears rough yet clean thanks to the uniform texture. As a result of this treatment, the natural color and pattern of the stone are ever-so-subtly softened.
  • Flamed – Also known as a thermal finish, flamed stone has a semi-rough texture. A high-temperature torch is used to create this non-slip, coarsely textured finish.
  • Tumbled – A tumbled finish leaves the edges of stone artfully rough and chipped, creating a weathered, aged look. This can hide signs of wear and tear in outdoor and high traffic areas.
  • Brushed/Leathered – A brushed, leathered, or “antiqued” finish is achieved by etching the stone’s surface using tools such as a wire brush. While the surface appears well-worn and weathered, it is pleasantly smooth to the touch – especially when combined with a flamed or sandblasted finish.
  • Natural Cleft – For certain stone applications such as cladding and paving, a natural cleft finish may be appropriate. No additional materials are applied for this finish, meaning the stone retains its uneven surface and the natural ridge which occurs when it is extracted from the earth.
  • Polished – To polish natural stone, the surface is mechanically rubbed with diamond pads until a shiny layer is revealed. This finish puts the stone’s natural veining and color on full display.
  • Honed – A honed finish is matte and non-reflective, lending the stone a clean and modern look. The process behind it involves the use of abrasives to grind and sand the stone’s surface down to an even, non-glossy finish.
  • Bush Hammered – A bush hammer is a masonry tool which looks similar to a meat tenderizer. When used on natural stone, this device creates a rough, rustic looking texture with plentiful ridges and pockets.

Selecting the Right Stone Finish for Your Application

As you can imagine, the natural stone finish you choose will have a significant impact on how the final product turns out. But keep in mind: When comparing the various options, it’s important to think about more than just appearance. Functionality should also be taken into account to ensure the finish you opt for is truly a good fit for your desired application.

For instance, a polished finish is probably not the best choice for flooring, as it may create a slipping hazard. In this case, it would be more appropriate to choose a non-slip option, such as a brushed or honed finish. These finishes preserve the vibrant appearance of the stone while also offering protection against slips.

Want more information on the many types of stone finishes and which ones are best for certain uses? Stay tuned for our next blog post, which will go into depth on how to choose the perfect stone finish for your project!

Explore Stone Finishes with the Specialists at Cosmos Surfaces

Thanks to modern technology and engineering, there are numerous types of stone finishes available to give your surfacing project a custom look and feel. At Cosmos Surfaces, we have years of experience helping homeowners choose the right material and finish for their design project.

Browse our selection of dazzling natural stone, which includes quartzite, granite, marble, onyx, soap stone and schist. If you’d like to learn more about a certain material or discuss which finish is best for your application and design goals, our experts will be happy to help. Reach out to us anytime!

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Quarried in Brazil, Bacural is a transfixing granite featuring marbled gray patches and golden honey veins liquefying across a bed of speckled eggshell, moss green and gunmetal gray. This audacious stone is an ideal pick for tub surrounds and fireplaces, as well as countertops and backsplashes.

The Art of Bookmatching Natural Stone

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

bookmatching stone

Of the many different ways natural stone is used, perhaps the most magnificent and eye-catching effect is accomplished through a process known as bookmatching. This technique can be used to highlight any stone with strong veining and a plentiful amount of movement, and it works particularly well with marble. You may be wondering: What is bookmatched marble, and what is the appeal of adorning a surface with bookmatched natural stone? Cosmos Surfaces is here to give you an in-depth look at the art of bookmatching and why it has become a major design trend.

What Is Bookmatching & How Is It Done?

The process of bookmatching is designed to create a mirror effect with consecutive slabs of natural stone. As the name suggests, bookmatching is done by placing successive pieces of stone next to one another so that they resemble an open book.

In order to produce the desired mirror image effect with marble or another natural stone, large blocks of stone are sliced into slabs and polished on the two sides that were previously facing each other. This method creates stone slabs which are virtual copies of each other, resulting in an astonishing kaleidoscopic pattern when they are arranged side by side.

What Is Bookmatched Marble?

Now that we’ve introduced bookmatching, let’s move on to the next question: What is bookmatched marble, and why is it so popular? As mentioned above, marble is a type of natural stone that is incredibly capable of creating an effective and inspiring bookmatched design. This is because most varieties of marble feature very prominent veining and flowing linear movement in their pattern. Plus, the hues in marble tend to be on the more subdued end of the spectrum, meaning the pattern won’t become overwhelming if mirrored.

bookmatched marble

Aside from marble, certain varieties of granite, quartzite and other natural stone can also be bookmatched to create uniquely stunning works of abstract art. Ultimately, the pattern and coloring of a stone will be the main determining factors in whether it is a logical choice for bookmatching. Beyond this, it comes down to your personal design style and what level of flair you’re looking to achieve in your space.

Where Might Bookmatched Stone Be Used?

Regardless of which variety is chosen, the goal of adding bookmatched natural stone to a space is to create a dramatic effect. Thus, many homeowners prefer to use it for larger areas so that the pattern has a prime opportunity to shine. Applications for which bookmatched stone may be a good fit include:

  • Shower walls
  • Accent walls
  • Large kitchen islands
  • Bar tops or tables
  • Fireplaces
  • Water features

If you are seeking to use bookmatched natural stone or porcelain for a certain application, it is important to consider the properties of the various kinds of natural stone to figure out which will work best for your purposes. When planning a bookmatched stone design for a high-traffic application such as a kitchen island, for instance, you might favor quartzite over marble, as the former tends to be more hardwearing.

Work with Cosmos Surfaces to Forge a Natural Stone Masterpiece

Perhaps you are interested in exploring the endless design possibilities afforded by bookmatched natural stone, or maybe you are looking for a less ornate option for your project. Either way, it is vital to work with a reputable surfacing material supplier to ensure a seamless finished product.

The design professionals at Cosmos Surfaces have the experience and know-how needed to help you find the optimal material for your application – whether you’re renovating a kitchen, modernizing a bathroom or working on some other project. Whatever the application, we are committed to providing the highest quality surfacing materials, plus helpful resources and unmatched customer service. Browse our extensive selection of natural stone for inspiration and brainstorming purposes, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions!

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Venturesomely dotted and speckled by Mother Nature’s paintbrush, Blue Pearl GT is a Norwegian granite with a reputation for unparalleled elegance. Dubbed Blue Pearl for its characteristic spots of white that pop against the rich blues and blacks that span the granite, this natural stone is a terrific pick for a fashionable, long lasting countertop.

Using Geology to Understand Variations in Quartzite

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

geology quartzite

One of the reasons we love natural stone is because it’s, well, natural. Variations in the color, texture, and pattern of stone are all part of the appeal.

But these variations can cause some confusion, too. Some people describe quartzite as bulletproof, while others report staining issues. How can that be true if they are both quartzite?

Quartzite, like any other natural material, has a range of traits. Not every quartzite deposit is the same, and understanding what creates differences between types of quartzite can make shopping much less confusing. Let’s take a little walk through geologic time and get a glimpse of how different quartzites are formed.

Precursor to All Types of Quartzite: Sandstone

Quartzite is a metamorphic rock, which means it used to be some other rock before it became quartzite. Quartzite’s  “parent rock” was sandstone. I’ll give you exactly one guess what sandstone is made of. (Hint: sand) Water or wind carries sand to places like beaches, deserts, or riverbeds. When the sand gets buried by new layers, it becomes compressed and stuck together to form a solid rock. Some sandstones are very porous because the sand grains have not been squeezed together all that much. But if the sandstone gets buried deeply, then it can become tightly compressed. This means the stone will have lower porosity and absorb less water. An example of this being Wild Sea Green.

Sandstone + Heat + Pressure = Grainy Quartzite

If a sandstone layer gets pushed deeper down into the Earth, it gets squeezed together more tightly while also becoming hotter. This can happen when a whole region gets compressed, like what’s happening now in the Himalayas or the Alps. Below those mountain ranges, rocks are getting shoved down into Earth’s crust, where they endure torturously hot conditions.

The heat doesn’t melt the stone, but it does fuse the sand grains together. The original sand particles grow into each other and form an interlocking texture, much like pieces in a jigsaw puzzle. This solid fabric of stone is less porous than sandstone.

This category of quartzite could be called “grainy quartzite” because it’s on the lightly-metamorphosed end of the spectrum. In some cases, the original patterns and textures from the sandstone precursor are still visible. Some examples being Mykonos, Vento Cinza and White Macaubus.

These types of quartzite need regular sealing, with particular attention to the edges of the slab after it’s been fabricated.

Keep Heating Quartzite 🡪 Crystalline Quartzite

If the heat and pressure get dialed up even more, the rock changes again. Any resemblance to sandstone is wiped out, and the whole stone becomes dense and crystalline. As you might guess, crystalline quartzites are less porous than grainy quartzites.

A very well-known example of a crystalline quartzite is Taj Mahal, a stone that is beloved by homeowners and feared by fabricators. Taj Mahal’s dense structure makes it a challenge to work with, but a delight to own. Other examples of such quartzites include Madreperola, Cielo and Cristallo.

Cristallo - White Quartzite 4

As a stone changes from sand grains to sandstone to quartzite to crystalline quartzite, the only aspect of the stone that changes is its texture. The grains are getting more tightly packed together and the pore spaces between the grains get smaller. The rock’s composition – quartz – stays the same throughout all of those changes. So each of these stones will be similarly resistant to scratching and etching.

On the Verge of Melting -> Mixed Stone Quartzite

We all have our limits. For the mineral quartz, that limit occurs at 3000 degrees (F), at which point quartz starts to melt. If a rock is made entirely of quartz, the whole thing will melt and it will become liquid magma. But if the stone is made of a mixture of different types of minerals, the quartz melts before the other minerals in the same way that chocolate chips melt before the other ingredients of trail mix.

So a rock that’s brought to the verge of melting will have pockets of melted quartz, while the other minerals in the rock won’t melt. Often these rocks have been squeezed to the point of distortion, which produces phenomenal patterns.  The melted quartz forms white ribbons that run through the stone, making it lively and dynamic like we see in Botticelli, Fusion Supreme, Phoenix Blue and Cardinal Red.

Fusion Supreme - Multi Quartzite

Geologists call this rock ‘migmatite,’ meaning ‘mixed rock,’ because it’s part igneous, and part metamorphic. It’s also singularly beautiful, very strong, and has low porosity.

Hopefully this stroll through the Earth’s inner workings helps illuminate how different types of quartzite can look and act differently from each other, even when they are the same general type of stone. The more you know, the easier it is to appreciate which one might be right for you.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Oppenheimer is an explosion of color. Greys, whites, and silvers meet a deep and inviting blue to create a pop of personality in this Brazilian quartzite. Sparkling, striking, beautiful, and bold, Oppenheimer will bring life to any space. It looks great as kitchen and bathroom countertops, bathtub surrounds, and vanity counters. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

DIY Grout Sealing and Maintenance

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

diy grout sealing

Last week, we talked about sealing natural stone. This week, we’re talking about sealing the grout that surrounds it! We provide our best tips on how to apply grout sealer to keep the grout around your wall and floor tiles looking fresh and new – not to mention the added bonus of making cleaning a breeze.

Does Grout Really Need to be Sealed?

Grout seals the joints between tiles like wall or floor tiles, or the backsplash often found in kitchens and bathrooms. It typically consists of a mixture of water, cement and sand, which results in a porous material, prone to absorbing grease, oils and water. This can lead to damage and discoloration over time, which can detract from the look of your tiles, no matter how diligently you clean them.

Sealing grout, and re-sealing as needed, prevents it from soaking up moisture and taking on stains. It can also make the difference between a cleaning routine that requires vigorous scrubbing, and one that simply requires wiping the surface down.

Prepare Grout for Sealing

Before applying sealer, you’ll want to ensure you’ve cleaned the surface thoroughly and repaired any cracks or chips in the grout lines. To clean, scrub grout lines with a toothbrush and soapy water, or use a 50-50 vinegar and warm water solution to tackle stains. Allow the surface to dry for at least 45 minutes before sealing.

Choosing a Sealer

Choosing an appropriate sealer depends on the type of tile and its location. The amount of moisture a sealer can tolerate will also factor in. If sealer is being applied in a high moisture area, like a shower, you’ll want to choose a sealer that can tolerate high levels of moisture. Carefully read labels to ensure a sealer is safe and appropriate to use on the tiles in your space, or contact a manufacturer for guidance.

Sealers generally come in two categories: penetrating sealers, and membrane-forming sealers:

  • Penetrating Sealers: These sealers penetrate the grout, filling in gaps to keep moisture out. Penetrating sealers work well in high moisture areas like bathrooms, making them an excellent choice for showers.
  • Membrane-forming Sealers: These sealers form a protective film or coating on the surface to resist water penetration. While they work well in the kitchen, they are not recommended for use in very high moisture areas, as water can become trapped under the surface and lead to mildew. Membrane-forming sealers also often feature pigments, which can alter the grout color. It’s important to note that these sealers work on unglazed tile, like stone, but will not adhere to glazed tiles, like most ceramics.

Sealer Applicators

While aerosol spray-on sealers are both common and convenient, they may not always be best suited to your situation. For a surface with unsealed tiles and thin grout lines, using a sponge makes it easy to seal large areas by wiping over both surfaces. In situations where you are sealing grout between glazed tiles (to which the sealer won’t adhere), you’ll want to use an applicator brush or specialty applicator bottle to only seal the grout lines.

How to Apply Grout Sealer

  • Apply sealer methodically, working in small areas at a time and moving from one end to the other, such as from left to right, to ensure consistency.
  • Use a dry cloth to wipe off excess sealer, removing it from the tile before it dries. Sealer can leave a foggy film on tiles which can be difficult to remove once dry. Carefully read product labels or consult a manufacturer to ensure that your tiles are protected.
  • Allow the first coat to dry for at least an hour before applying a second coat. It generally takes up to three coats to ensure protection. You can test your grout by applying a few drops of water. If the water beads up on the surface, the sealer is doing its job. If not, repeat the process.
  • Allow the space to dry completely before use. Some sealers can take up to 48 hours to cure, so be sure to check the product label or consult a manufacturer for appropriate curing times.
  • Re-seal grout as needed. This can vary based on factors like the location of the tiles and grout, the level of moisture present and the brand of sealer used.
  • Once grout has been sealed, cleaning can be as simple as wiping down the surface with soapy water (or a cleaner that is safe to use on your tile) as needed.

We hope you find this guide on how to apply grout sealer helpful! Cosmos Surfaces is a 2nd generation, family-owned business dedicated to providing you with knowledge, meaningful customer service and high-quality surface materials. We offer a wide range of products and resources to assist our customers with their surface material needs.  Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

The blue-gray background and thick, crystalline bands of white resemble a wintry wood in the type of quartzite we’ve dubbed Cassini. Also known as Vogue Blue or Paramount, Cassini paints a striking scene. Cassini is a cool and boldly unique choice for any modern space, including kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Ceramic vs. Porcelain: What’s the Difference?

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ceramic vs porcelain

Both porcelain and ceramic tile are in high demand for contemporary kitchen and bathroom renovation projects. Considering how similar they are in appearance – and the fact that their uses often overlap – it’s no wonder why many people use the terms “ceramic” and “porcelain” interchangeably when describing tile. However, it’s important to note that each surfacing material has its own distinct characteristics. This can make one more suitable than the other for certain projects. So, what is the difference between porcelain and ceramic tile? Cosmos Surfaces is here to explain everything that sets the two apart, once and for all.

What Is the Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tile?

To understand what makes ceramic and porcelain dissimilar, it’s only logical to start with the materials and methods used to construct them. While ceramic is made from various colors of clay, porcelain consists of a combination of white clay, feldspar and sand. Another important difference: higher temperatures are used to fire porcelain than ceramic.

These differences in how the surfacing materials are made end up influencing their properties. In their final forms, here are the main areas in which ceramic and porcelain differ:

  • Density & Porosity – Owing to the materials and high temperatures used to make it, porcelain tile is more dense and hardwearing than ceramic. It is also less porous, meaning it doesn’t absorb as much water.
  • Ease of Use – The downside of porcelain’s higher density is that it can be more difficult to work with. In addition, some homeowners may perceive it as being a bit too hard to the touch. Ceramic is softer and easier to cut/shape, while still being impressively durable.
  • Cost – Generally speaking, ceramic tile tends to be more affordable than porcelain. This could give ceramic an edge over porcelain for larger projects and renovations on a budget.
  • Design Options – Both ceramic and porcelain tile come in a range of breathtaking styles. But if you’re looking for a more intricate and unique design, you might have better luck finding it in ceramic. Ultimately, it comes down to what you prefer.
  • Suitability for Interior/Exterior Projects – The higher density of porcelain makes it a favorable choice for projects both inside and outside of the home. On the other hand, ceramic tile is approved for interior use only.

Choosing the Right Type of Tile for Your Project

Hopefully, you now feel clear on the answer to “what is the difference between porcelain and ceramic?” As you can see, finding the right type of tile for your project means considering numerous factors, including your application, style preferences and budget. Let’s summarize where porcelain and ceramic tiles are best used:

  • Porcelain is durable enough to be installed both indoors and out. It is capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic in applications like residential or commercial flooring. Furthermore, it performs well in environments with high moisture and some are even rated to be frost proof, making it a standout choice for shower walls and floors, countertops, exterior wall cladding and more.
  • Ceramic is suitable for interior walls, backsplashes and floors that receive low foot traffic. Typically more cost effective and easier to work with than porcelain, it is a resilient and budget-friendly material that’s available in an endless variety of stunning styles.

One important benefit of both materials: whether you choose ceramic or porcelain tile for your project, you will enjoy easy maintenance. Consult our guide to cleaning porcelain tile to learn how to keep tile surfaces in the kitchen or bathroom pristine. The recommended upkeep for ceramic tile is very similar! Once you’ve chosen your tiles, you can also find helpful advice on choosing the right tile grout color on our blog.

Count On Cosmos Surfaces for Durable & Delightful Porcelain Tile

Cosmos Surfaces is proud to provide an extensive array of surfacing options, including our OPULITH large format porcelain tile collection. Our remarkable selection has something for every taste and design project. Those who wish to invite luxury into their home might consider Taj Mahal, an iridescent champagne porcelain that entrances and intrigues.

Our highly trained team members are standing by, ready to assist you on your quest for the ideal surfacing material to complete your project. Known for our exceptional customer service and competitive pricing, Cosmos Surfaces is dedicated to helping you make your design dreams a reality. To request professional assistance from our industry experts, reach out to us today.

Color of the Month: Classic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 19-4052, Classic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “A boundless blue hue, Classic Blue is evocative of the vast and infinite evening sky opening us up to a world of possibilities.”

Azul Bahia is a type of granite which takes its name from the place where it is sourced — the state of Bahia, Brazil. With veins of sparkling white, black and gray interspersed between the azure, this beautiful polished stone seems otherworldly. Use Blue Bahia to add a breathtaking pop of color to fireplaces, countertops, showers, floors and other surfaces.

A Designer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Porcelain Tile Grout Colors

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

designers guide porcelain

Porcelain tile is a terrific choice for a wide range of projects in the kitchen and bathroom. A low-maintenance surfacing material that ranks high on the style scale, porcelain tile is available in a broad selection of colors and styles. Whether you’d like to add pizzazz to your bathroom floor with hexagonal tile or refresh your kitchen with a subway tile backsplash, you’ll need to choose a color for your tile and the surrounding grout. So, how should you go about narrowing down your options for tile grout colors to land on one that suits your application and room aesthetics? The design experts at Cosmos Surfaces are here to share a few must-know guidelines to help you make a winning choice.

Why Do Tile Grout Colors Matter?

Before we dive into our pro tips for finding your ideal shade among the many available tile grout colors, we’d first like to emphasize why this choice is so important. While it may seem relatively insignificant, the shade you select for your tile grout will actually play a major role in how the finished product turns out. Regardless of application, taking a thoughtful approach to choosing your grout color is key to ensure you are totally satisfied with the look of your completed tile installation.

Selecting a Complementary Grout Color for Your Porcelain Tile Installation

While there are no set-in-stone rules when it comes to picking out tile grout colors, following some general guidelines can help you achieve your desired look – and make a decision you’ll be happy with for years to come. Without further ado, let’s explore some tips and tricks for selecting a grout color that pairs beautifully with your porcelain tile choice:

Think about your desired design effect

To start, decide what you aim to accomplish in your design scheme. Are you looking to make a bold statement, or does a more traditional look appeal to you? If your goal is to highlight the shape of your tile and make your design stand out, choosing a contrasting grout color will best achieve this goal. A lighter grout will make dark tile pop, and vice versa. If you desire a more unified look, opt for a grout color that closely matches the tile. Don’t worry about finding an exact match, though – a shade that’s a bit lighter or darker than your tile will pull everything together nicely.

Be prepared for possible color variation

Keep in mind that grout powders like tiles are made in batches and can vary slightly from batch to batch. The grout color will also change slightly when water or other components are added during installation and when a sealer is applied to the grout post installation. A tile professional can offer advice on what to expect for  normal color variation of your grout during and post installation, given the type of grout. They can also show you grout samples to help you envision how different tile grout colors will look in your design setting. Remember to factor in slight color variations from grout samples to the actual grout as well.

Consider your application

While porcelain tile is known for its outstanding resilience, the grout which outlines the individual tiles can darken over time – especially when used for high-traffic applications such as flooring. With this in mind, it’s wise to choose a darker grout to begin with if installing tile in an area that gets frequent use.

As you compare tile grout colors, keep these expert tips in mind – but remember there’s no right or wrong choice! Ultimately, the best selection for your project will depend on your personal taste and what effect you are hoping to evoke with your tile design.

Look to Cosmos Surfaces for Personalized Assistance

When planning a project that incorporates tile, there is plenty of inspiration to be found online. Browse our porcelain tile archives to see examples of how you might combine tile with various grout colors to enhance your kitchen or bathroom design.

Among the elegant porcelain tile options available from Cosmos Surfaces is Apilar White, a stunning bright white porcelain with vertical gray veining. As you’ll see in our photo gallery, both light and dark grout can complement this versatile tile selection, depending on the surrounding design elements and the desired aesthetic.

With a reputation for providing exceptional customer service and top-quality porcelain products, Cosmos Surfaces is dedicated to helping you make your porcelain tile project a success. Our knowledgeable team members are here to assist you every step of the way, from choosing a compatible tile grout shade to obtaining beautiful, long-lasting porcelain for your project. If you’re ready to get started, reach out to us today!

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

On Kamarica granite, sea foam green, rust orange, soft ivory and space gray swirl and twirl with one another to produce magical shapes. Bold yet sophisticated, this exotic, naturally occurring Brazilian stone is an awe-inspiring choice that works well for countertops, backsplashes, window sills, walls and many other interior design projects.

All About Sealing Natural Stone: Where, When, and Why

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

sealing stone

Sealing your floors, countertops, and other surfaces is the best way to future-proof your investment in natural stone. However, there are a number of things to know before you go ahead and start sealing! In this post, Cosmos Surfaces will tell you all the ins and outs of sealing natural stone.

Factors to Consider Before Sealing Natural Stone

Some natural stone surfaces don’t need to be sealed. Here are some factors that can help determine whether a stone needs to be sealed at all:

  • The porosity of the stone and how fast it will absorb liquids
  • The durability, density and hardness of the stone
  • Type of finish applied to the surface – a polished surface, for example, is more resistant to staining than a honed or leathered surface and might provide adequate protection
  • How frequently the stone will be exposed to staining agents
  • Whether resin has been applied to the surface (some sealers can react negatively with resin)
  • The location of the stone – interior vs. exterior, countertop, wall, floor, etc.

In the next section, we’ll break down the types of stone surfaces and whether or not they generally need to be sealed. Best practices can still differ even between different styles of the same type of stone, so it’s always best to check with your supplier for specific instructions.

Sealing by Type of Natural Stone

  • Granite: Granite is durable and naturally resists water, but it is also porous. Sealing granite makes it easier to clean and protects against stains and spills. Impregnating sealers work best on granite.
  • Marble: Due to porosity and susceptibility to staining and etching, marble requires more attention than some other stones when it comes to maintenance. Like with granite, an impregnating sealer works best to protect many types of marble and will need to be reapplied as directed by the brand of sealer or your installer.
  • Quartzite: The hardness of quartzite helps it resist scratching and etching, but it is still susceptible to staining. Impregnating sealers can last longer than topical sealers, which can wear away quickly.
  • Schist: Schist has a lower abrasion rating than some of its harder counterparts, like granite. This makes it more susceptible to scratching, while certain substances can also stain schist. Schist countertops should be well sealed for protection.
  • Onyx: Onyx requires special care to protect and maintain, and sealing is paramount. Onyx surfaces are typically sealed upon installation and re-sealed at regular intervals. Consult a professional about sealing onyx and setting up a proper maintenance plan.
  • Soap Stone: Soap stone is non-porous and doesn’t require a sealer. Applying a thin layer of mineral oil regularly will help retain its shine and cover any scratches.

Types of Sealers

Now that you know which surfaces need to be sealed, it’s time to learn about different types of sealers. Sealers come in two varieties: topical/coatings, and impregnators.

Topical Sealers/Coatings

Topical sealers/coatings are designed to form a film on the surface of the stone. These sealers can be classified into two types: strippable and permanent. Strippable sealers can be stripped or removed from the stone, while permanent sealers are very difficult to remove and are typically not recommended for natural stone. Since topical sealers form a film on the surface that is less durable than the stone underneath, your maintenance approach might need to shift to caring for the sealant. As an example, you might have a stone surface which is resistant to scratching, but once a topical sealer is applied, you will need to be mindful of scratching the sealer itself. In this instance, applying a topical sealer can negate some of the benefits of your chosen stone surface – this all depends on your needs, of course.

The advantages of topical sealers/coatings:

    • The initial cost is relatively low
    • They are fairly easy to apply
    • It provides a protective layer to take on wear and tear
    • Topical sealers can add luster to your stone
    • Certain products provide slip resistance

The disadvantages of topical sealers/coatings:

    • They can alter the texture and finish of the stone
    • It creates a layer less durable than stone, which can scratch, scuff and show signs of wear and tear – frequent buffing, burnishing or reapplication can help with this issue
    • Some coatings need frequent stripping and reapplication. It’s important to note that some of the chemicals and abrasives used during this process can damage the stone underneath, or react with the polyester resin binders that agglomerate stones often contain
    • Coatings can build up over time, creating a wavy, plastic-like appearance
    • Lower quality coatings can turn yellow, especially if the surface is exposed to UV light
    • Some coatings can restrict the “breathing” capability of a stone, trapping moisture below the surface and causing spalling (flaking)
    • Some sealers can react with cleaning chemicals or components within the stone
    • You will need to ensure a topical sealer applied to a countertop is safe for food use
    • Topical sealers are generally not recommended for use on exterior stone, as they can trap moisture, which can be detrimental for the stone during freeze/thaw cycles

Impregnating Sealers

This type of sealant penetrates below the surface of the stone and acts as a repellent. Some impregnating sealers are hydrophobic, which means they repel water, water-based chemicals and water-based liquids like fruit juices, soda, coffee and so forth. Oleophobic impregnators repel BOTH water and oil-based liquids like grease, cooking oil and body oils. It’s important to note that some products are labeled “oil-resistant” rather than “oil-repellent” – there is a difference, as “oil-resistant” impregnators only slow the absorption of oil into the stone, while “oil-repellent” products prevent oils from entering the stone at all.

The advantages of impregnating sealers:

    • “Breathable,” which means they keep contaminants out while allowing for vapor transmission and for interior moisture to escape
    • Typically don’t change the appearance of the stone
    • Don’t usually require frequent reapplications
    • Typically hydrophobic, while some are oleophobic as well
    • Usually unaffected by UV light

The disadvantages of impregnating sealers:

    • Solvent-based impregnators produce potentially noxious and flammable vapors during application, and some varieties are harmful to the environment (for this reason, the use of these varieties is restricted in certain states). Some water-based impregnators can also contain harmful/toxic chemicals – it’s always important to research a product or contact the manufacturer before deciding to use it
    • Application is more difficult and often warrants professional consultation
    • The initial cost is higher than for topical sealers
    • Impregnators typically cannot be used below grade (below ground level), since pressure in these spaces can force water through the stone
    • In some cases, applying an impregnating sealer to a resined stone can lead to clouding, fading and discoloration

Consult a Professional

As you can see, sealing natural stone can be a complex topic. You’ll want to do thorough research or consult a professional before applying a sealer to your natural stone. Factors like chemical composition and brand can lead to unexpected reactions with your surface, so it’s always wise to read product labels and instructions carefully and consult manufacturers whenever possible. Your fabricator will make it easy to understand how to care for your specific surfaces.

Cosmos Surfaces offers a wide selection of natural stone surfaces, and our team is dedicated to serving your needs with knowledge, passion and respect. Contact us today to get started!

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Amazonite brings to mind splotches of sunlight filtering through thick leaves of a rainforest or the turquoise blue of the Atlantic Ocean. This Brazilian granite is great for bathrooms and sunrooms. It matches perfectly with both aquatic and botanic environments, and looks beautiful as a vanity, counter, top, or wall.

Dazzle and Delight With Semi Precious Stone Countertops

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

dazzle

Known for their showstopping appearance, semi precious stone countertops offer far more than just visual magnificence. The advanced production process used to craft these one-of-a-kind slabs heightens the functionality of wondrous natural stone. Through an artisanal technique, gemstones like amethyst and agate are suspended in resin in order to fashion a completely unique surface that is highly resilient and thus well suited to a wide array of applications. Namely, semi precious stone makes for luxurious kitchen countertops, bar tops and beyond.

What Makes Semi Precious Stone a Splendid Choice for Countertops?

Cosmos Surfaces is proud to be a trusted source for brilliant semi precious stone countertops of the highest quality. Now that we’ve introduced semi precious stone and the process by which it is crafted into countertops, let’s take a closer look at the characteristics of this striking surfacing material:

  • Exceptionally Eye Catching – Semi precious stone is guaranteed to make your countertop the centerpiece of your space. Whether you choose an energetic, multicolored variety like Agate Vermell or opt for something more neutral & serene like White Quartz, the hand-picked, multidimensional crystals and gems will mesmerize and inspire all who gaze upon it. No two slabs are the same, especially when it comes to semi precious stone.
  • Incredibly Resilient – Semi precious stone countertops are far more durable than you might expect given their opulent appearance. To elaborate: When professionally sealed and finished, a semi precious stone countertop is resistant to heat, scratching and staining. Sealing also ensures that the surface is impervious to moisture and will not harbor bacteria.
  • Environmentally Friendly – Exotic gems are carefully selected and arranged by hand to create a truly inimitable countertop. This meticulous process creates very little waste material. In turn, semi precious stone ranks among the most eco-friendly options out there for kitchen islands, bar tops and similar projects.
  • Easy to Clean & Maintain – The fact that it’s low maintenance is yet another thing to love about semi precious stone. To maintain a sparkling, hygienic countertop, simply wipe it with a soft, damp cloth on a daily basis or as needed. For guidance on stain prevention and removal, see our tips below.

How to Keep Your Semi Precious Stone Countertops in Pristine Condition

The result of nature’s handiwork combined with masterful engineering, semi precious stone countertops are visual masterpieces with impressive longevity. While this premium countertop material typically comes with a higher price tag than other natural stone options like quartzite, it is an investment that will last for years so long as it receives proper care. Here are a few must-know pieces of advice on maintaining a countertop made of semi precious stone:

  • Promptly wipe up spills to prevent staining
  • Use a pH-balanced countertop cleaner that is approved for use on semi precious stone
  • To remove stains: Apply a small amount of baking soda & water and gently scrub the spot; then, wipe away the cleansing solution with a damp cloth and dry the area thoroughly

As you can see, maintaining a semi precious stone surface is very similar to maintaining other stone surfaces, both natural and engineered. A quick daily wipe down with a gentle cleanser and cloth will make cleaning any of your surfaces easy for many years to come. Check out our detailed care and maintenance resources for more information.

Peruse Our Catalog of Striking Semi Precious Stone

If you’re not already seriously considering semi precious stone for your next renovation project, you certainly will be after exploring our awe-inspiring selection!

Made from a custom blend of hand-picked stones, Agate Earth is one of our most prized and precious stone countertop materials. Featuring tones of brown, red and black, this gemstone is both warm and familiar, a tie back to home and the earth. Exceedingly strong and capable of withstanding the elements, Agate Earth is a suitable choice for indoor and outdoor applications alike.

To be captivated by our full collection of semi precious stone, click over to our online gallery now.

Reach Out Today for Expert Assistance with Transforming Your Home

Eager to discuss whether semi precious stone is the most ideal material for your particular project? The specialists at Cosmos Surfaces are here to help you weigh your options and decide on the very best option for your application. Whether you settle on semi precious stone or another surfacing material, you can depend on our customer-focused team to supply it for the most competitive price. To get started, fill out our online contact form and let us know how we can assist you.

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Flecks of emerald green and gleaming silver pop out from a backdrop of jet black, taking center stage when the light hits them. Emerald Pearl is a stunning type of granite quarried in Norway. Glamorous without being fussy, this resilient stone makes for a magical backsplash, countertop, accent wall or floor.

How Home and Office Design Will Change Due to Coronavirus Pandemic

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

coronavirus pandemic

Welcoming more nature into our spaces, an emphasis on antimicrobial materials and choosing natural stone are among the new interior design trends many experts are noticing as we adjust our homes and office environments due to the global coronavirus pandemic.

Office Design Changes To Help Keep Employees Safe

As many employers are considering how to make their office environments safe for their employees, and employees themselves wondering how they can keep themselves and their loved ones safe, it’s no surprise that office design is getting an uplift.

What types of changes are employers making to ensure the safety of their employees as well as customers or clients?

“It’s clear the post-virus workplace will be more spacious and likely include more screening systems, but when considering workplace solutions employers should keep in mind the long-term as well as catering to immediate needs,” notes Amanda Jay, who works in workplace strategy at Spacestor, a UK-based company whose mission is to help people by improving their workspace.

“How will our needs change over the next nine months?” Jay asks. “There’s a big environmental question about one-time use screening products, for example. Employers should also be communicating the measures taken to make the workplace safe for re-entry – employee comfort cannot be overlooked.”

Technology is playing a role in new interior design trends. While there has been a lot of emphasis placed on using antimicrobial materials such as copper and other specially-developed materials with similar properties, it’s important for designers to couple this with reducing the risk of infection transfer in the first place. “This can be done by designing in less shared facilities (hot desks/hot lockers) and adding more sanitization stations,” adds Jay.

To be sure, some employees (and their employers) are concerned about returning to a traditional office environment. Among the reasons people will be returning to the office rather than continuing remote work is that it’s hard to replicate the camaraderie and benefits of in-person interactions in industries that thrive on brainstorming and working as part of teams.

“An unwanted side-effect of remote working – and even distanced working back in the workplace – is a lack of human connection,” admits Jay. “Workplace designers should be considering how they can incorporate spaces that encourage colleague interactions; what replaces the ‘water-cooler moments’? Lounge-type spaces can safely encourage the casual encounters needed to spark the next big idea, whilst screening solutions that allow visibility across desks/between areas protect against the loneliness epidemic.”

Home Design In The Time of Coronavirus

For some, the office will look different for the foreseeable future, as their commute will be from the bedroom to a space in their home. As a result, people are looking at how space is used in the home differently since their home needs have changed.

“Natural light is becoming more essential when it comes to wellness in the home,” says Kerrie Kelly, FASID, NKBA, Creative Director and CEO of Kerrie Kelly Design Lab and Chair-elect of ASID. She’s noticing that clients are choosing to add windows, operable skylights and sun tunnels to welcome more natural light indoors as well as boost mood and productivity.

Another way to bring the beauty and wellness benefits of the outdoors inside is through the use of natural stone. “Natural stone is frequently used for exterior spaces, but bringing it indoors is a great option for keeping a healthy home,” Kelly adds. “Unlike many other products, natural stone is free of harmful chemicals and toxins, making it a great choice when it comes to wellness. It is also highly sustainable, durable and even recyclable. Aesthetically, natural stone often adds texture and an organic feel to a space.”

To create cohesion, Kelly recommends carrying the same stone flooring to the inside from the outside: an effective way to create a visual flow when blurring the lines between interior and al fresco areas.

Katherine Kawaguchi, ASID and CAPS, an interior designer based in northern California and owner of Katherine Kawaguchi Design, also is noticing more clients re-consider how they’re using space in their homes.

Where a room might have had a specific purpose in the past, that room might now needs to serve multiple purposes. Working with an interior designer can help clients imagine how to better use their existing space for today and beyond.

Outdoor spaces are becoming more important for homeowners who are finding themselves spending more time at home than at an office or commuting. “Outdoor living is a really big deal, especially for those with multiple families living in one area,” says Kawaguchi. In some cases, there might be as many as three generations using the same spaces, indoors and out, so those spaces need to be flexible and comfortable for people to want to spend time there.

Where they might’ve thought about moving, people are also looking at long-term residency and re-considering their home’s layout and space, according to Kawaguchi. “People are looking at how to create the home where they can stay longer and that helps them to justify the financial investment in it,” she adds.

New Interior Design Trends Will Keep Evolving

As the pandemic continues to unfold, we can expect it to keep having an impact on new interior design trends at home and in the office. Experts are following these trends closely and thinking of ways to help their clients adapt to a changing world.

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Fusion Supreme - Multi Quartzite

Fusion Supreme brings to mind the swirling artworks of Van Gogh. The stormy blues, greens, whites, and blacks create a beautiful storm. Great for countertops, waterfalls, and tables, Fusion Supreme is a complex quartzite that will make any space a gorgeous work of art, whether inside or out. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How to Clean Quartzite: Sealing, Stubborn Stains, and More

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clean quartzite

Today, Cosmos Surfaces is here to share our guide on how to clean quartzite. This beautiful natural stone is easy to clean, but there are a few easy things to remember if you want to maintain it safely and properly.

First of All, What is Quartzite?

Quartzite (not to be confused with quartz – check out our article on quartz vs. quartzite), comes from the fusion of sandstone with quartz crystals at incredibly high levels of heat and pressure. The resulting stone has the durability and hardness of granite, combined with the exotic beauty of marble.

Quartzite is twice as hard as glass and harder than the blade of a knife – it’s just about indestructible! These properties make it an excellent choice for surfaces that are subject to everyday wear and tear, such as kitchen countertops. In fact, quartzite is so strong that you shouldn’t use it as a cutting board – not to protect the quartzite itself, but to protect your knives from dulling.

Before You Clean It…

Because quartzites are formed naturally, some are more porous than others (stay in the loop to learn more about quartzites and absorption). When it comes to maintaining natural stone surfaces, the porosity of a stone plays a significant part in its level of stain-resistance, as well as the amount of maintenance required to care for it. A porous stone is more prone to soaking up liquids and staining. The porosity of quartzite depends on the amount of metamorphosis the stone undergoes as it is formed. The higher the levels of heat, pressure and metamorphosis during formation, the less porous the resulting quartzite will be.

To solve the problem of porosity, natural stone surfaces are sealed, which makes cleaning them quite easy and straightforward.

Seal It!

Most fabricators will apply a sealant before installation and explain any additional sealing that needs to happen over the life of the quartzite. In general, depending on the sealer, quartzite needs to be sealed at least once every 10 years. A tell-tale sign that it’s time to seal or re-seal a quartzite countertop is when the surface gets darker around wet areas, like sinks. If you are uncertain, you can test its porosity yourself by leaving a small amount of hot water on the surface for roughly 20 minutes, then wiping it away. If a darkened spot remains, your surface is soaking up liquid and could likely benefit from a sealant. Sealing a quartzite surface is the key to easy maintenance and a simple cleaning approach. Be sure to follow the instructions for your specific sealer. In general:

  • Clean and thoroughly dry the surface
  • Ensure the area is well ventilated
  • Wait for the cure time before using the surface again

That’s it! Now you’re ready to keep your sealed quartzite clean.

How to Clean Quartzite

Once quartzite is properly sealed, there isn’t much else involved in cleaning it! You can use a cloth, microfiber cloth or the soft side of a sponge. Use clean water and a mild, neutral cleaner that is suited for stone surfaces. The following habits will go a long way in caring for quartzite:

  • Clean spills right away, especially acidic spills (lemon juice, vinegar, wine, etc.) and food coloring agents (turmeric, food dyes, etc.)
  • Use cutting boards, trivets and cooling racks
  • Keep the surface area dry (around sinks, under dishes, etc.)

Do NOT use heavy-duty scouring pads, abrasive cleaners, or bleach on quartzite or any other natural stone.

Stubborn Stain Pro-tip: Make a Poultice

Quartzite is stain-resistant if you wipe substances up promptly. However, all natural stones can stain if something is left to “soak in” for too long. If you’re struggling with a stain that just won’t come out, you can try making a poultice by combining baking soda and water to form a paste. Spread this paste over the stain and cover it with plastic wrap for up to two days, then wipe the area clean. Repeat the process if necessary!

A Note on True Quartzite

Due to similarities in appearance and some properties, it’s possible for stone to be mislabeled as quartzite, or “soft quartzite,” when it’s actually an intermediate quartzite, sandstone, marble, or dolomitic marble. True quartzite is incredibly strong, does not etch and cannot easily be scratched by a knife blade. It’s wise to double check with your supplier to ensure you are getting true quartzite.

Quartzite is a truly gorgeous surface material. While most quartzites are white or light in color due to their quartz mineral content, additional minerals in the stone can produce vividly colored varieties.

If you have questions about quartzite or if you are looking for quartzite suppliers, we’d love to hear from you! Cosmos Surfaces brings over three decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. As a 2nd generation family-owned business, we are passionate about sourcing high-quality surfaces for homes and businesses. Get in touch by filling out our contact form today – our team of experts is happy to help!

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Alexandrita Quartzite is a type of light green quartzite; a beautiful, tranquil stone that is perfect for countertops, floors, wall applications, backsplashes, and more. The soft hues of green, ivory, and peach create a calming effect, reminiscent of sand and sea foam. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched. Call your nearest location and see this beautiful green quartzite for yourself!

Marble and Quartzite: Similar Looks, but Different Properties

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marble quartzite similar

Marble and quartzite fill a big, beautiful niche in the world of natural stone. They both offer serene, natural hues of white, cream, and grey. Both have a pleasing sense of movement and pattern, ranging from mild-mannered to vivid. But despite their similar aesthetics, the stones have entirely different properties. Understanding marble vs. quartzite is the first step to deciding how to use them.

Marble is soft; quartzite is hard.

Hardness is a stone’s resistance to being scratched. Every mineral has a specific hardness, and taken together, the hardness of the minerals in a stone dictate its overall hardness. It’s easy to get a sense for a stone’s hardness by trying to scratch it with a common material like a copper penny or steel knife blade.

Marble is made of calcite, which has a hardness of 3 on Mohs hardness scale. In everyday terms, that means you can’t scratch it with your fingernail, but you probably can scratch it with a copper penny.

Care to guess which mineral quartzite is made of? Quartz, naturally! (Not to be confused with manufactured quartz surfaces, which contain ground-up quartz minerals plus resins and colorants.) Quartz is among the harder minerals, with a Mohs hardness of 7, and quartzite is harder than glass, a steel knife blade, or a steel nail.

It’s possible – though not common – for a stone made of hard minerals to scratch easily. This can happen when the grains of the stone pull apart from each other. For example, sandstone is made of quartz, but if the sand grains are not stuck together very solidly, the stone can crumble even though it’s made of a hard mineral. In future articles I’ll delve deeper into some of the details of quartzite and sandstone and what to look for in these stones.

Pass the salad dressing… carefully.

Acidic liquids trigger a chemical reaction on marble, causing tiny amounts of calcite to be dissolved. This is called etching, and it usually looks like a dull area on a polished slab. Etching has no structural effect on the stone – it’s purely an aesthetic change. Etches can be buffed out of marble, but the best way to deal with etches is to accept them as a fact of life, and even embrace them as part of the living surface of a natural material.

Quartz is a naturally inert mineral and it does not react with everyday acids like vinegar or lemon juice. So quartzite won’t be bothered by a less-than-tidy cook, a boisterous dinner party, or an errant splash from the pickle jar. Note that strong acids like oven cleaner or toilet bowl cleaner should be kept away from any type of natural stone or manufactured quartz.

Both stones can stain – or not!

Here’s where things get a little confusing, so bear with me. A stone’s ability to withstand stains is determined by its porosity. If there are tiny spaces in between the mineral grains, then blue Gatorade will be able to get inside the stone and stay there. But the fewer the pore spaces, the less staining will happen.

Some marbles are porous, and some aren’t. The same is true for quartzite. This is because both are metamorphic rocks that went through a few million years of heat and pressure down deep in the Earth’s crust. But exactly how much heat, and how much pressure did the stone endure? Well it depends, of course, because geology is fickle. Some marbles and quartzites were only lightly metamorphosed, meaning not all the pore spaces were squeezed shut. But others were squished so thoroughly that the stone became low porosity and hence, stain resistant.

How can you tell if a given stone is likely to stain? The answer is easy: Try to stain it and see what happens. I recommend food coloring, chili oil, or brightly colored fruits. An important caveat – experiment on a scrap piece of stone and not on your actual countertop, nor on a slab in a showroom. Ideally you can get a small piece of stone to try out some tests.

Sealing a stone is one way to reduce its porosity, and for this reason many types of stones are sealed. The more porous a stone, the more carefully and frequently it will need re-sealing.

Marble Vs. Quartzite: Which one should you choose?

This is an impossible question for me to answer. The decision of marble vs. quartzite depends on your personality and how you plan to use the stone. In a busy kitchen or other high-traffic area, quartzite is likely to stand up better over time. But for a buffet top, vanity, or fireplace mantel, marble’s classic good looks will shine through year after year.

If you’re one of those enviable people that tend to roll with life’s punches and shrug off imperfections, then marble can be a worthwhile choice. But if the mere thought of a scratch or an etch makes your blood pressure rise, then you’re probably a better candidate for quartzite.

So take stock of your needs, reflect on your own character, and align those factors with a stone that’s inherently compatible with how it will be used. When it comes to marble vs. quartzite, the “best” stone is always the one that’s thoughtfully matched to its intended purpose.

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Similar to the wings of a butterfly, Labradorite Madagascar is renowned for its unique iridescence. In the light, its glassy blue accents gleam and transform into a rainbow of colors, while the background of soothing green remains an eternal constant. Effortlessly illuminate your kitchen by choosing this splendid granite for the countertop.

How to Use Natural Stone Remnants (And Where to Get Them)

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

natural stone remnants

When a large stone slab is cut to make your custom shower wall or countertop, what happens to the small pieces of stone that don’t make the cut? These beautiful “leftover” pieces of stone are called “remnants,” and they don’t go to waste. Natural stone remnants are actually in high demand by designers and other creative people with great ideas about how to use them. In today’s blog, Cosmos Surfaces will talk about how to use natural stone remnants in homes and other buildings, and where to get them so that you can get started on your own stone remnant project. We hope to inspire you to use these gorgeous, environmentally friendly stone remnants in a variety of ways.

Before Using Natural Stone Remnants…

…Be sure to consider the type of stone. Some are more prone to scratching or staining than others, so they shouldn’t be used in an environment that will expose them to these events. For example, soapstone is extremely resistant to acids and has a porosity of nearly zero. This makes it an ideal surface for serving food, so it’s a great option if you want to create a gorgeous cheese platter out of natural stone. On the other hand, soapstone is relatively soft and vulnerable to scratches. You wouldn’t want to use it as a cutting board – granite would be a much better choice.

before natural stone remnants

These are just a couple of examples of how the type of natural stone can affect where it should be used. Be sure to ask your supplier for advice about what types of stone would be best for your design, and read our blog and other care and maintenance resources for detailed information about caring for different types of natural stone.

Ideas for Large Remnants

Not all natural stone remnants are very small. Often, rather large pieces will be left over after an installation. This is a great opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture and bring luxurious natural stone into every room of the home. Large stone remnants can be used for:

  • Tabletops
  • Kitchen islands
  • Bar and buffet tops
  • Vanities
  • Windowsills
  • Outdoor Kitchens

Long, narrow remnants are perfect for these applications. This shape may not be ideal for a shower wall, but it is perfect for an in-home bar or a custom kitchen island. Just a touch of natural stone around the home can create an atmosphere of elegance and refinement.

ideas large remnants

Ideas for Small Remnants

The possibilities are endless when it comes to small, and even very small, natural stone remnants. Because natural stone is naturally beautiful and unique, you can use a small remnant anywhere in the home. Here are some exciting ideas for these “leftover” pieces of stone:

    • Serving and cutting boards
    • Mosaic backsplashes and accent strips
    • Coasters and trivets
    • Decorative objects
    • Plant stands
    • Stepping stones
    • Mosaic walkways and stairs
    • Mosaic stair raisers
    • Coffee tabletops

Simply placed on a table or under a prized houseplant, a natural stone remnant instantly elevates your decor. Or, design a stunning mosaic for a kitchen, bathroom, entryway, or garden. Remnants can be further shaved or cut down to create mosaic tiles in any shape. Even a small strip of decorative tiling between the countertop and the vanity mirror will draw the eye and add a touch of luxury.

ideas small remnants

Natural Stone Remnants are Environmentally Friendly

Less waste is better for the environment, and natural stone remnants are a perfect example. Using the remnants of stone slabs that have already been quarried and transported means less wasted energy and fuel. Natural stone is super durable and outlasts other manufactured products, so maximizing its use means less wastage and efficient use of natural resources across the design industry. It can also be recycled and repurposed for construction, filler material, or even mineral-rich fertilizer for plant life.

Where to Get Natural Stone Remnants

Now that you’ve been inspired to create something beautiful out of natural stone remnants, where can you acquire them? Simply ask your local stone slab supplier. It is likely they have plenty of remnants remaining from installation projects that are ready to be repurposed. At Cosmos Surfaces, we value the design possibilities and environmental benefits of natural stone remnants, and we are happy to work with you to find the perfect remnants for your idea. Contact us to get started.

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Fascination - Green Quartzite 2

One of our most unique pieces, this quartzite is aptly named Fascination. Resembling an aerial view of the earth, the alluring waves and layers of Fascination captivates and delights no matter where it’s installed. New patterns continue to draw the eye the longer one looks upon the winding veins of black, gold, green, and white that make up Fascination. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Schist Vs. Granite: Brilliance, Durability, and More Reasons to Consider Them Both

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schist vs granite

Choosing a material for your design is a big decision, and you’ll definitely want to consider all of the available options before making the call. Most people are familiar with materials like granite, quartz, and marble – but what about lesser-known options like schist? Today, Cosmos Surfaces will take a deep dive into the topic of schist vs. granite. We’ll explain the important differences between these two amazing natural stones, and discuss some things to consider when trying to decide between them for a kitchen, bathroom, or another renovation project.

What is Schist?

Schist is a metamorphic rock made mostly of mica mineral, formed under the heat and compression of tectonic forces. It has mica grains large enough to see with the naked eye, which means it glitters and sparkles. Mica is made up of thin, sheet-like layers of atoms that reflect light like a mirror. Schist also often contains quartz, which gives it much more strength than if it only contained mica. Depending on the type of schist, it can also contain other minerals, such as garnet and hornblende. These eye-catching combinations of minerals mean that schist is available in a variety of stunning colors and patterns.

What is Granite?

Granite is an igneous rock, which means it forms in a magma chamber over millions of years (or more). It starts out as molten rock and cools underground. The rate of cooling affects the size of the crystals it contains, as well as how uniform in size these crystals are. That’s why granite also comes in a variety of colors and patterns, including luxurious black granite.

Schist Vs. Granite: What’s the Difference?

So schist is metamorphic and granite is igneous. But what does that mean in terms of how these materials can be used in a design? Some types of schist are even categorized as granite, which makes it even harder to tell the difference. Let’s compare some of the most important physical properties of these natural stones that may impact their use in design applications:

  • Hardness and Durability: Granite is extremely hard and dense. You’ll see it used in places where durability is most important, including bridges, building facades, monuments, and more. Granite is extremely heat- and scratch-resistant, since it was is formed under higher temperatures and more pressure than schist.

Schist runs slightly more risk of being scratched or etched. Its durability depends on how much mica it contains. New York City’s skyscrapers are built into schist bedrock, which goes to show how strong it can be. But the higher the mica content, the more schist is prone to splitting along planes of weakness. That means designers and homeowners should be wary of using schist in places where it will hang over an edge without support, such as an overhanging countertop. Ask for a sample from your natural stone slab supplier so you can test the hardness of the schist you are considering. Examine the edges and look for signs of splitting along the mineral layers. A less durable schist is better for lower-traffic areas like fully supported countertops, walls, backsplashes, fireplace surrounds and wall accents.

  • Porosity: Compared to a material like manufactured quartz, both schist and granite are porous. This means they both need to be sealed to prevent stains and absorption. Most fabricators will apply a sealant before installation and explain any additional sealing that needs to happen over the life of the stone (about once every 10 years depending on the type of sealer being used). Wiping up spills and substances promptly will help prevent staining in both schist and granite.
  • Maintenance: As with any natural stone, schist and granite require regular maintenance to keep looking their best. Wiping up spills, using trivets under hot objects, and using gentle cleaning products or cleaners developed specifically for natural stone is all that is required for daily maintenance of these natural stones. Because of its durability, granite is less likely to need repairs or resurfacing. With proper care, schist won’t need these either.
  • “Look” and Style: Both schist and granite are available in a wide array of colors and patterns. Schist has a trademark sparkly appearance because it contains mica and other minerals. Depending on the size of the mineral grains, it can appear to have a fine shimmer or a full-on glitter. This distinguishes schist from granite, which generally looks warmer and less sparkly. Schist is perfect for a brilliant, lustrous design that catches the light – and the eye.

Two Amazing Natural Stones

Schist and granite are both stunning natural stones that are perfect for countertops, walls, floors, backsplashes, and much more. Talk to your supplier to figure out how your needs line up with their properties. Do you need an ultra-durable material for your entryway, or a backsplash that glitters with stunning mineral patterns? The experts at Cosmos Surfaces are ready to help you decide on a schist or granite from our diverse collection to complete your design.

Color of the Month: Ultramarine Green

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-5338, Ultramarine Green! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Ultramarine Green, a deep cooling blue-green, exudes self-assurance and poise.”

Botanic Green fittingly gets its name from its leaf-green color. Native to Brazil, this quartzite is also known as aqua, due to its silvery metallic sheen that resembles the calming teal waters of South America. Botanic Green looks great in kitchens, bathrooms, aquatic settings or next to rich and lush plant-life. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

How Do You Maintain Granite Countertops? (Hint: Prevention is Key)

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

maintain granite countertops

Durable, beautiful, and easy to clean, granite is one of the most popular household surfaces out there. But how do you maintain granite countertops and keep them looking beautiful in the long term? This post from Cosmos Surfaces provides easy steps you can follow to keep your granite looking clean and new.

How Do You Maintain Granite Countertops?

All surface materials require some amount of regular maintenance. While granite is one of the easiest natural stone surfaces to care for, it can become dull or stained over time around sinks and high traffic work areas. Prevention is key! Making a habit out of the following measures will go a long way in protecting your granite countertops for many years to come:

  • Wipe counters daily with a neutral cleaner
  • Use cutting boards, cooling racks and trivets
  • Clean spills and moisture as soon as possible
  • Keep bottles of cleaning fluids like dish detergent off of countertops (on a dish, for example)
  • Use coasters for mugs and glasses
  • Dry underneath dishes regularly
  • Wipe water around faucets off daily to prevent it from calcifying and turning white (using a neutral cleaner once a week can clear away buildup)

Sealing Granite Surfaces

All granites will benefit from being sealed properly, which the installer/fabricator can take care of for you. All light colored granites must be sealed properly to prevent water and other liquids from being absorbed. With the right daily maintenance, a good sealer can last for up to ten years! Penetrating sealers form a chemical bond with the stone’s surface and provide additional protection against water, oil, grease, stains and the general wear and tear of daily use. Applying a sealer often entails simply spraying the product on and wiping off excess. It’s always wise to check manufacturer recommendations on how to properly apply a sealer. In the coming weeks, we’ll be talking about sealing natural stone in more detail.

Oxidation from sunlight and air can break down sealers over time. However, an even bigger culprit is the use of improper cleaners, which brings us to…

A Note on Cleaning Products

It’s important to check cleaning labels to ensure a product is safe for use on stone before applying. A daily stone surface cleaner should not leave behind residue. As such, it is not advisable to use dish detergent on countertops, as they often contain fatty acids which can leave a greasy film and dull the surface or leave unsightly streaks.

If you’d like to know more about the science behind granite, check out this post on how granite is formed, or reach out to Cosmos with your questions! We offer a wide selection of natural stone surfaces and our team is dedicated to serving ALL of our customers with knowledge, passion and respect.

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Named after two historic and high-class French cities, Monte Carlo Bordeaux is a sophisticated granite sourced from Brazil. Its regal white base is complemented by beige veins and dots of soft burgundy that lend a soothing appearance to the stone. For kitchen and bathroom projects alike, Monte Carlo Bordeaux is a lovely and long-lasting option that performs well on countertops, vanity tops and more.

Quartz Vs. Quartzite: It’s Not a Competition!

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

quartz vs quartzite

Engineered quartz and naturally occuring quartzite are two top contenders for renovation projects in the kitchen and bathroom. Because their names sound so similar, it’s easy to get these premium surfacing materials confused – and people often do. While the two materials do have certain qualities in common, ultimately, they have different properties and their own unique benefits. When considering quartz vs. quartzite, it’s important to note these differences. As a leading supplier of both materials, Cosmos Surfaces is here to explain how to tell them apart and decide which is best for your application.

Quartz Vs. Quartzite: The Differences Explained

When it comes to quartz vz. quartzite, it’s not a competition – both surfaces have great benefits in design applications. Here are some of the ways they differ:

  • Composition & Appearance – As mentioned above, quartz is engineered (man-made), whereas quartzite is the result of natural geologic processes occurring over millions of years. While both quartz and quartzite are composed majorly of natural quartz mineral, differing mineral compositions and formation processes produce one-of-a-kind patterns and coloring in natural quartzite, making each piece totally unique. Quartz on the other hand is an engineered product, that is available in a wide range of styles carefully designed to meet customer needs and current trends and can be easily replicated. With the current advances in technology, engineered quartz can imitate the appearance of natural stone very impressively.
  • Density & Longevity – Both quartzite and quartz are considered to be hardwearing materials, well suited to kitchen and bathroom applications. However, quartzite could be considered a bit more durable, due to the extremely high density given to it by nature. Furthermore, the resin used in the manufacturing of quartz is less resistant to heat.
  • Suitability for Outdoor Applications – Natural quartzite can stand up to the elements, making it a favorable option for outdoor kitchens, flooring and more. Quartz performs best indoors, as it is more sensitive to heat and sunlight. So, creating a look that flows from indoor to outdoor is easily achieved with natural quartzite.
  • Sealing Requirements – Because the mineral composition of quartzite varies, some quartzites are more porous than others. If a porous quartzite is chosen, it must be sealed properly to keep out moisture and bacteria. Quartz is manufactured to be non-porous and thus does not need to be sealed. This makes it preferable for some homeowners who prefer to worry less about maintenance.

All of the above should be taken into account when deciding on quartz vs. quartzite. Ultimately, the ideal option will depend on your project and your preferences.

Stuck Between Quartz & Quartzite? Consult Our Experts for Assistance

Now that you’re aware of the key characteristics that set quartz apart from quartzite, you may be curious to find out which one is most appropriate for your desired application. Cosmos Surfaces is here to offer you our expertise as you seek out the perfect surfacing material.

Browse our online gallery to explore our huge selection, which includes this whimsical quartzite called Scarlet Crystal:

Once you’re ready to discuss the options that catch your eye, reach out for personalized guidance from an industry professional at Cosmos Surfaces. We look forward to assisting you!

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Agate Vermell - Red Semi-Precious 3

Agate Vermell is a semi-precious type of red agate stone. Unique, hand-picked stones are processed manually to make red agate a work of art to add to any home. The deep amber and warm browns of red agate pairs well with wood and can be installed as countertops, backsplashes, accent walls,  and more. Backlighting this stone creates a stunning visual that is guaranteed to make heads turn.

What are the Best Uses and Benefits of Soapstone?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

benefits of soapstone

If you’re curious about the benefits of soapstone while doing research for your kitchen or bathroom renovation project, look no further! In this blog, Cosmos Surfaces takes a look at the properties of this gorgeous natural stone surface.

What is Soapstone?

Soapstone, named for its “soapy” feel, comes from the mineral talc. Talc is the softest mineral on Earth, measuring a 1 on the Mohs hardness scale. The amount of talc in soapstone varies, which means the overall hardness of the stone will vary as well. Commercial soapstone slabs intended for practical use contain less talc, with the remaining composition including harder minerals like chlorite, magnesite and amphibole. This broad variation in potential mineral components and their percentages makes soapstone more of a family of stones. You’ll want to work with a reputable dealer and spend some time investigating the specific stones you are considering.

The Benefits of Soapstone

Soapstone offers three major benefits: heat resistance/retention, acid resistance and absorption resistance/non-porosity. These properties enable soapstone to be used as sinks, countertops, floors, hearths, stoves and more. Let’s take a closer look:

  1. Heat Resistance and Retention: Magnesite, a main component of soapstone, has the ability to retain heat, making soapstone an excellent choice for a hearth or fireplace. The stone is capable of absorbing, retaining and radiating warmth long after a fire has gone out – a very desirable property in cold climates!
  2. Acid Resistance: Soapstone is a favored surface choice in laboratories, as its talc component is chemically inactive. This means soapstone tends to be unaffected by acids. This property, along with its heat resistance, translates well into the kitchen, where it is commonly used for countertops, islands and kitchen sinks. Because soapstone is soft, it is not ideal as a cutting surface – but it can take a spill of acidic lemon juice or wine without being damaged.
  3. Absorption Resistance/Non-Porosity: Soapstone is very dense, which makes it highly resistant to staining. The talc it contains is hydrophobic, which means it actually repels water. The dense composition of small minerals that makes up soapstone means it will not absorb liquids or harbor bacteria – both great properties to have on your side in the kitchen!

A Word on Maintenance

Soapstone is a great choice for those who want the option of self-maintenance/repair. Since soapstone lacks the hardness of surfacing materials like granite, for example, it might take on scratches, chips or gouges from everyday wear and tear or accidents. However, these can be fixed! Small scratches can be removed with a coat of mineral oil, while larger marks can be removed with sandpaper. Even gouges can be filled with a mixture of stone chips and epoxy, making soapstone a user-friendly option when it comes to DIY repairs.

Soapstone looks best when it is oiled with a thin layer of mineral oil. This ensures consistent coloring and keeps your soapstone looking fresh and vibrant. It is important to note that soapstone cannot be polished to a glossy finish, but rather retains a soft, warm glow.

If you have questions about soapstone, contact us or give us a call today! Cosmos Surfaces has a gorgeous selection of soapstone and other natural stone surfaces and our team of experts is always ready to help!

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Fusion Melange forms a complex conglomerate of colors. Reminiscent of the California Gold Rush, Fusion Melange is comprised of golds, reds, blacks, and silvers in intricate waves of texture. When installed both inside and out, Fusion Melange looks stunning among dark woods. The Fusion Melange quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

What Exactly Is Granite, and What Is It Used For?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

granite wholesale suppliers

Owing to its beauty and resilience, granite has long been a favored choice for kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops and countless other projects throughout the home. You’ve most likely seen granite used for a variety of applications, indoors and out. In any case, it’s only natural to wonder how this natural stone is formed and how it ends up in the slab format commonly sold by granite wholesale suppliers. Cosmos Surfaces is here to tell you all about granite and its many uses.

What Is Granite, and What Is It Used For?

As magma cools deep within the Earth’s crust, granite is formed. Because the cooling process happens slowly underground, granite tends to have a coarse texture with prominent, easy-to-see minerals. The naturally occurring stone is primarily made up of quartz and feldspar, among other minerals. You’ve probably noticed that granite can vary greatly in appearance. There’s a simple explanation for this – differing mineral compositions create the different colors and patterns for which this stone is known and loved.

While the formation of granite happens far underground, over time the rock is uncovered and comes close enough to the surface to be quarried. Once the granite is extracted from the ground, special machinery is used to cut the stone into large slabs. These slabs can then be purchased from granite wholesale suppliers and used for a variety of applications, including:

  • Kitchen countertops
  • Bar tops
  • Flooring
  • Backsplashes
  • Fireplaces
  • Bathroom vanity tops
  • Tub surrounds
  • Outdoor walkways and patios
  • Outdoor countertops & bars
  • And many more!

Caring for Granite Surfaces: A Quick & Easy Guide

Whether you choose granite for your floors, countertop or some other application, upkeep is simple and straightforward. Here are a few must-know tips:

  • Be sure to use a cleaner that is approved for stone surfaces. Doing so is essential to maintain a streak-free, polished look and extend the life of the sealer on the granite.
  • Even though granite is moisture resistant, it’s important to clean up spills in a timely manner to avoid discoloration. It’s a good idea to keep soap and other liquids in a bowl so that water does not collect on the surface.
  • Granite is durable and can withstand heavy use. Still, you should always use hot pads and cutting boards to avoid scratching or otherwise damaging your granite countertops.

Cosmos Surfaces: The Expert Granite Wholesale Suppliers

Proud to be among the leading granite wholesale suppliers in the U.S., Cosmos Surfaces offers a huge selection of granite in many different eye-catching colors and patterns. Emerald Pearl is just one of the many memorable granites we offer in slab form.

Click over to our website now to browse our extensive selection of competitively priced granite. If you have any questions, our knowledgeable staff is here to assist – simply fill out our contact form, and we’ll be happy to help you find the best option for your project!

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Complexity and beauty are unmatched in Crytos, a quartzite originating in Brazil. The mellow waves of black and silver that make up Crytos are met with crystalline rivulets of amber, grey, and white. Crytos looks beautiful installed in countertops, backsplashes, and fireplace mantles. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Ceramic Tile: Pros and Cons for Kitchen and Bathroom Use

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

ceramic tile pros and cons

For kitchen and bathroom applications of all sorts, ceramic tile is an easily maintained option that never goes out of style. But as with any surfacing material, it has both benefits and drawbacks. In this article, we outline the most important ceramic tile pros and cons to be aware of when considering this material for your renovation project.

Ceramic Tile: Pros and Cons for Kitchen and Bathroom Use

Your search for the perfect surfacing material will likely lead you to contemplate a variety of options, from marble to quartz to ceramic tile. Here are a few advantages of ceramic tile in particular:

  • Resists Moisture & Cracking – Thanks to its density, ceramic isn’t likely to crack or chip very easily. Plus, its glazed surface provides a reliable barrier against moisture and stains. All in all, its durability makes it a wonderful choice for projects throughout the home, from behind the kitchen sink to lining your shower walls. Be sure to check the absorption rate of the tiles or ask for suitability in your application if you are not sure.
  • Doesn’t Hold Germs or Bacteria – For any project in the kitchen or bathroom, you’ll want to choose a material which is highly hygienic. Ceramic tile definitely ticks this box, as its hard surface cannot be easily penetrated by bacteria. Simply mop or wipe down ceramic tile with an all-purpose cleaner to disinfect and get rid of any germs on its surface. Making sure that the grout around the tiles is properly sealed will also aid in keeping the germs from penetrating the surface.
  • Comes in a Massive Range of Styles – Looking for a modern backsplash to accent your bright kitchen or a unique floor to upgrade your bathroom? You’ll have no problem finding a variety of ceramic tile colors, shapes and styles that are perfectly suited to your project!

To make an informed decision, it’s important to note both ceramic tile pros and cons. So, here are a few things which some consider to be less than ideal about this surfacing material:

  • Needs to Be Sealed – Depending on the type of tile you choose, to create the nonporous surface which makes an unglazed ceramic tile impervious to liquid and germs, it must be sealed. While many ceramic tile products come with the protective sealant or a glaze already applied, keep in mind that some require sealing after installation.
  • Grout Sealing & Maintenance: While you may pick a tile that is impervious, selecting the right kind of grout is also very important. If you are to go with unsealed grout, it will need to be sealed after application to protect it from staining and coloring. Choosing pre-sealed grout is a good way to overcome this issue.
  • Tends to Feel Hard & Cold – While the hardness of ceramic is an asset for several reasons, its density can also make it feel hard and cold – especially in the winter months. For this reason, some homeowners prefer a softer material such as quartz.

Cosmos Surfaces Provides Tile Products for a Range of Applications

Now that you are well versed in ceramic tile pros and cons, perhaps you’d like to learn about the selection of high-quality tile products and other stylish materials from Cosmos Surfaces. No matter what your wish list includes, our experts are here to help you find a surfacing material that has it all. Contact us today for professional assistance!

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

The longer you look, the more the quartzite named Mirage seems to change. Primarily a rich brownish red, Mirage is composed of subtle flecks and waves of various complementary colors, from white to silver to black to gold. Mirage is a bold choice for fireplaces and fountains, where the elements add to its mystique. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

A Guide to Shopping for Natural Stone Slabs

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

stone slab suppliers near me

If you’ve turned to your browser and typed in a phrase like “stone slab suppliers near me” lately, the odds are you’re considering an important purchase. With so many options on the market, the search can feel daunting. Here’s a quick guide from Cosmos Surfaces to shopping for natural stone slabs!

Step 1: Assess your Needs

The properties you need in a natural stone surface will vary based on its application. A kitchen countertop should be scratch and stain resistant, while a commercial countertop might need to withstand fingerprints and oils. Stone used for outdoor applications like patios needs to withstand extreme temperature shifts, while you might favor texture for grip on a bathroom floor. It’s a good idea to write out a list of the properties you need so you can get advice from your stone slab supplier.

Step 2: Visit a Stone Showroom and Obtain Samples

Once you understand your needs and have narrowed down your search, visit a stone showroom to see the options you have and satisfy your requirements. If you are not sure, ask for assistance. Once you know your choices, it can be helpful to get sample sizes of the stones you are considering. Suppliers can often provide samples so you can experience the texture, color, and  coordinate other finishes like backsplash, trim, paint, cabinet colors and appliances.

Step 3: Test the Stone

To really assess whether a natural stone will meet your needs, you can do some tests on your samples. You can test for the following properties:

  • Hardness – a stone’s resistance to scratching. Use a sharp corner of the stone to scratch a glass tile, or scratch the stone with a knife blade. If the stone leaves a scratch on the glass or is able to withstand a blade, it can likely withstand common wear and tear.
  • Durability – a stone’s resistance to splitting or cracking. Many types of stone, like slate or schist, are layered. You can investigate a broken edge to see if you can pry apart those layers. It’s also a good idea to check for fissures (naturally occurring splits in the rock) or cracks (man-made splits caused during fabrication, transportation or installation). You’ll want to watch out for fissures or cracks you can feel on the surface, any that run all the way through or any appearing near edges or overhangs.
  • Acid Resistance – Everyday household acids can cause etching (a dull mark) on stone. Test for acid resistance by letting lemon juice or vinegar sit for several minutes before wiping it off and checking for etching at a low angle. Granite, quartzite and soapstone are excellent options if acid resistance is a priority.
  • Staining/Porosity – If your sample is sealed, check to see if water beads up and is wiped away easily, whether it leaves a damp mark or whether it soaks into the stone. Porosity is a good indication of how easily a surface will stain. Lower absorption means higher stain resistance.

Looking for “Stone Slab Suppliers Near Me”? Turn to Cosmos Surfaces

If you have questions about natural stone, please call or contact us today – Cosmos Surfaces is happy to help! We are experts on the properties of different types of natural stone, so we can provide the best advice on the perfect material for your project.

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Swirling pink and umber is how this rust-hued onyx, Red Dragon, gets its name. Originating in Iran, Red Dragon resembles an aerial shot of a desert, a soft caramel with rivulets of bold amber. With its polished finish and unique texture, Red Dragon is stunning in bathrooms as a vanity, wall tiling, or flooring.

How to Remove Stains from Quartz Countertops

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to remove stains from quartz

Quartz is a very stain-resistant material, but it is not stain-proof. While daily maintenance is easy with warm water and mild soap, it’s important to know how to remove stains from quartz without damaging your countertops, backsplashes, and other surfaces. In today’s blog, Cosmos Surfaces takes a look at what substances can stain your quartz and how to safely remove them.

How to Remove Stains from Quartz Without Damaging It

Mild cleaners may be insufficient for some tenacious stains. Yet harsher cleaning agents, as well as sponges and scrubbing pads, have the potential to damage quartz surfaces. Manufactured quartz consists of quartz particles surrounded by polyester resin filler. While the quartz particles are hard and resistant to scrubbing action, the filler around it can be damaged more easily. Manufactured quartz will handle stains and cleaning attempts differently based on its color, finish, pattern and composition. Darker colors and busier patterns tend to make stains appear less visible. A honed quartz surface will also show stains more readily than a polished quartz surface. These are some things to consider when choosing quartz for kitchens and bathrooms.

What NOT to Use on Quartz:

  • Highly acidic or alkaline cleaners
  • Nail polish removers
  • Oven cleaning solutions
  • Turpentine
  • Drain cleaners
  • Bleach
  • Any product containing bleach, methylene chloride, or other harsh chemicals

Common Stain Offenders and How to Clean Them:

  • Hot sauce
  • Brightly colored spices like turmeric, curry powder and paprika
  • Permanent marker
  • Food coloring
  • Colored makeup

Permanent marker and food coloring can produce the most persistent stains on quartz. For removing permanent marker, Bar Keeper’s friend and a sponge work well to remove stains without damaging the finish. Food coloring stains can be tougher. Small amounts of Bar Keeper’s friend or rubbing alcohol and the scrubby side of a non-scratch kitchen sponge can lighten food dye stains.

Best Sponges and Cleaners

For other substances, like food stains, the most successful cleaning method is a non-scratch kitchen sponge along with a non-abrasive cleaner (like warm water and mild soap). You can also use a Magic Eraser (works well on honed surfaces) or surface cleaning wipes (with no bleach). Heavy-duty scouring pads and more abrasive cleaners can damage the resin filling, or scratch and haze the surface. Keep in mind that different brands and types of quartz surfaces will react differently to cleaning products and chemicals. It’s always a good idea to check with your manufacturer to see which method works best for your particular product.

If you have more questions about how to remove stains from quartz, or about our quartz products, please contact us today! Cosmos Surfaces brings years of industry experience to the table, and we are always happy to help.

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Striking red and black, Cardinal Red brings to mind the feathered plumage of its namesake bird. In swirling waves of texture, this Brazilian quartzite has layers of crystalline white and gray, giving it a uniquely high degree of variance. The deep reds and blacks of Cardinal Red complement both black and silver and look wonderful in kitchens and as feature walls. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, while its beauty is unmatched.

Is Quartz Good for Bathrooms?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

Is quartz good for bathrooms

Also known as engineered stone, quartz has earned the spotlight as a favorable choice for remodeling and renovation projects of all kinds. Many home renovators admire the qualities that this surfacing material has to offer for kitchen countertops, including its resilience, longevity and striking appearance. Still, some wonder: Is quartz good for bathrooms? Keep reading to find out why quartz is indeed a wonderful choice for vanity tops, shower walls and other elements of any modern bathroom.

Is Quartz Good for Bathrooms? Cosmos Surfaces Explains

Curious about whether quartz is good for bathrooms? Check out this list of characteristics which make quartz well suited to a variety of bathroom projects:

  • Non-porous – Because quartz is non-porous, it’s easy to clean and won’t hold germs or moisture. It’s easy to wipe clean and disinfect. This also makes it more resistant to stains than some types of natural stone.
  • Hardwearing, but less hard in appearance – From spills to drops, quartz can withstand it all with minimal chance of chipping or cracking. At the same time, its appearance is not quite as hard as that of natural stones like granite and marble, making it softer to the eye.
  • Unique & mesmerizing – Since quartz is an engineered product, it is available in a huge range of distinct colors and styles that can be replicated time and over. For those desiring a standout countertop or bathroom surfacing material, quartz promises an exquisite, inimitable aesthetic.

These are just a few reasons why the answer to “is quartz good for bathrooms?” is a resounding yes! Just be aware: quartz is less heat resistant than some other countertop materials like natural stone, so it’s best to avoid putting hot items directly on its surface. This usually isn’t as much of a concern for bathrooms as it is for kitchens.

Discover Captivating Quartz Options from Cosmos Surfaces

Now that you are familiar with the many advantages of quartz, it’s time to explore different styles that might fit your project. With understated elegance and a calming, quieting effect, Pebble Grey is a breathtaking selection from the Cosmos Surfaces collection.

To view more stunning quartz options and find one that perfectly complements your design scheme and application, click over to our online gallery. The Cosmos Surfaces experts are here to provide personalized shopping assistance if you desire professional guidance. Simply complete our contact form to get in touch or chat with us on the website!

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

The quartzite Malbec receives its nickname, Napa Valley, from the rich and complex colors that bring to mind the sunsets of northern California. Comprised of rolling hills of brown, red, pink, and white, transport yourself to the mountains and wine country by installing Malbec both inside and out. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, while its beauty is unmatched.

How to Care for Marble

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to care for marble

Marble is durable and easy to clean if maintained regularly, but you’ll definitely want to know how to care for marble properly to keep it looking its best for a lifetime. Like any other surface, marble needs proper maintenance to prolong its beauty. In this post, Cosmos Surfaces will take a look at the best ways to keep your marble countertops, vanities, floors, and other surfaces clean on a daily basis, without damaging this luxurious material.

How to Care for Marble: Daily Cleaning

Marble is absorbent, so it can be vulnerable to spills and acidic substances if not sealed properly and regularly. When used outdoors, it can also be damaged by acid rain and pollutants. The best way to avoid damage is with some simple care techniques. Here are some easy steps you can take on a daily basis that will make it easy to keep your marble clean and safe in the long run:

  • Wipe up spills and dirt right away with a non-abrasive cloth or sponge. Do not use hot water to clean up milk and blood, as it can make the stain worse.
  • Avoid using chemical cleaners, acids like vinegar and lemon juice, grout cleaners, and tub or tile cleaners. They can etch and dull the stone.
  • Soapless, neutral cleaners specifically made for stone are ideal. You can also use mild, phosphate-free, eco-friendly dishwashing liquids or powders, neutral detergents, or vegetable oil based soaps. Make sure to rinse all cleaners off completely with fresh water.
  • For exterior steps and pathways, sweep and rinse marble often with water.
  • Use coasters and trivets when placing wet or hot items on marble or another countertop material.

Periodic Cleaning for Marble Floors

No need to wash your marble floors every day, as long as you keep on top of spills and dirt. Mopping and rinsing your floors about twice a month will keep them clean and prevent graying and weathering. Putting mats and rugs at entrances can help prevent damage and debris from shoes.

  • Use clean, soft mops and brooms on marble floors, and avoid using old vacuum cleaners (they may scratch your marble). Newer vacuum cleaners are safe to use.
  • Change mop water frequently, and rinse thoroughly with clean water. Remove excess water immediately (hard water can be damaging) and allow marble to dry before use.

Ask the Experts!

At Cosmos Surfaces, we’re passionate about the best ways to care for marble and other natural stone surfaces! If you have questions about our marble products and how to take care of them, please reach out to us today.

Color of the Month: Cinnamon Stick

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-1345, Cinnamon Stick! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Earthy and warm, Cinnamon Stick is sweet yet spicy.”

Oxford Blue - Multi Quartzite 3

Oxford Blue is nature’s version of the amalgamation of the Northern Lights, your favorite pair of faded blue jeans and a sunset on the ocean. Layers of blue, white, green, orange, and pink meet in this Brazilian quartzite, creating an atmosphere of liveliness and nostalgia. Oxford Blue looks great in white or monotone kitchens, bathrooms, bars or aquatic environments, such as a poolside bar counters or a waterfall. The Oxford Blue Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, while its beauty remains unmatched.

What Are the Benefits of Marble?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

benefits of marble

Spring is the perfect time to start fresh and breathe new life into your kitchen or bathroom. If you have a remodeling project in the works, you may be searching for the ideal material to use. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your kitchen countertop, bar top, bathroom vanity or shower, marble offers a number of noteworthy advantages. Keep reading to be inspired by the many benefits of marble!

4 Benefits of Marble for Kitchen & Bathroom Projects

  • Authentic Beauty – While man-made porcelain and quartz can imitate the look of marble, nothing can quite compare to the beauty of the real thing. If you desire a bold, one-of-a-kind stone with distinctive veining, marble is a winning choice.
  • Durability – When professionally installed and properly maintained, marble will hold up very well over time. Resistant to heat and cracking, it can be relied on to perform impressively in the kitchen or bathroom and around a fireplace.
  • Affordability – Marbles is a premium material that varies greatly in pricing, depending on your selection. The cost can range based on the kind of marble, the labor involved, and details like edge profiles and polishing. That means we can always help you find an option that works for your design and your budget.
  • Customizability – Because marble is softer than granite, it is much easier to shape its edges. You can choose from a variety of unique edge profiles to personalize your marble countertops and add intriguing texture.

As you can see, there are many benefits of marble which make it a great option for a wide range of settings. But of course, every surfacing material has its pros and cons. If you’re still contemplating which material will work best for your project, take a look at our post on how marble compares to porcelain.

Find Exquisite Marble Options at Cosmos Surfaces

Now that you are familiar with the myriad benefits of marble, you may be ready to start exploring marble options in different hues. Cosmos Surfaces has a huge selection of distinctive, memorable marbles, including Rain Forest Green. The complex texture and varied greens, golds, and browns make Rain Forest Green a beautiful choice in rooms with greenery or in gardens.

Rain Forest Green - Green Marble 1

To browse our entire collection of marbles and other gorgeous materials, head over to the products section of our website. Our experts are here to assist if you have questions – simply fill out our contact form or use the chat box to be connected!

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Elegante - Multi Quartzite 3

Nicknamed Ocean Blue and Elegant Grey, Elegante is a blend of colors, from blue to gray to white. This Brazilian quartzite creates a soft and classy atmosphere, both calming and mellow while still capturing a layered complexity. This stone can be book matched to create a jaw dropping kitchen island with a waterfall edge or a unique accent wall. Elegante is a great choice flooring and walls in open well-lit spaces. The Elegante Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Learn About Black Granite

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

black granite supplier

If you’re on the hunt for a black granite supplier and would like to know more about this versatile surface material, this post is for you! First, we’ll explore the uses and qualities of black granite, then we’ll take a look at some of the gorgeous options available at Cosmos Surfaces.

What is Granite?

Granite is an igneous rock – that is to say, it’s a type of magmatic rock, formed by the slow crystallization of magma below the Earth’s surface. The use of granite dates back thousands of years. Throughout Europe, structures built with granite centuries ago remain standing to this day. Today, granite is still commonly found in bridges, buildings, paving, monuments and other external structures. Granite is highly durable and incredibly heat-, crack- and scratch-resistant. This makes it an excellent choice for indoor applications, including:

  • Kitchen Countertops
  • Floor Tiles
  • Backsplash
  • Bathroom Tiles
  • Mantelpieces
  • Staircases

Polished granite has a glossy finish and adds both elegance and functionality to any space. Granite surfaces are easy to clean and maintain with warm water and soft cloth. The stone is a dense material, one of the hardest natural stones, with a coarse-grained structure. In fact, the term granite is derived from the Latin “granum,” which means “grain.”

Types of Black Granite

When choosing black granite for your kitchen, bathroom, or outdoor space, it is important to know that black granite exhibits tonal variations depending on where it is sourced. For example, black granite from India is considered “true black.” On the other hand, black granite sourced from Africa naturally has white or gray spots, and is dyed with food-grade dye to appear blacker. This does not affect the quality of the stone in any way, but it can affect its price. Your black granite supplier will be able to provide expert advice on the best black granite for your application.

Cosmos Surfaces is Your Black Granite Supplier

Cosmos offers a variety of granite options, each with a unique look and texture. Here’s a glance at two stunningly contrasted black granite options from our portfolio:

Harvested in India, Absolute Black features a natural pebbled texture and uniform dark coloring.

Black Marinace features smooth and shiny pebbles of varying sizes and shades — ivory, gray, muslin and gold all make an appearance.

We are proud to offer these premium granites and much more. Contact us today for more information on our range of granite products!

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Blue Fossil, or Brazilian Fossil, is a very unique type of quartzite due to its pentagonal pattern. Like a turtle’s shell or dinosaur’s spine, the crystals of Fossil Blue form layers of pentagons across the surface. Upon closer inspection, one can see veins of red and brown border the natural shapes. Quartzite is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Best Way to Clean Stainless Steel Sinks: A Comprehensive Guide

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

best way to clean stainless steel sink

Stainless steel has become one of the most popular materials for kitchen sinks, appliances and more! This is no wonder, considering stainless steel is built to withstand heavy use in a residential or commercial kitchen. Still, just like any type of sink, stainless steel requires some maintenance to preserve its pristine appearance. If you’re looking for the best way to clean stainless steel sinks, Cosmos Surfaces is here to provide a handy tutorial!

Best Way to Clean Stainless Steel Sink: A Comprehensive Guide

  • Everyday Cleaning – Cleaning your stainless steel sink often is the best way to keep it in superb condition. For routine cleaning, gently scrub your sink using a damp microfiber cloth or gentle sponge and a small amount of dish soap. Thoroughly rinse the sink with hot water, and wipe dry with a clean towel for a streak-free shine.
  • Grime & Stain Removal – Over time, grime and debris may build up on the sides and bottom of your stainless steel sink. With regular everyday cleaning, this shouldn’t be a problem very often. The best way to clean stainless steel sinks with stuck-on grime and stubborn stains? Create a gentle yet effective cleaning solution by sprinkling a bit of baking soda all over your damp sink. Then, scrub away using a damp sponge or cloth, focusing on any spots that are grimy or discolored. You may also want to add a few squeezes of lemon juice to get your sink extra fresh and shiny. Once again, be sure to rinse and dry completely to avoid water marks.
  • Scratch Buffing – Although stainless steel sinks are very resilient, scratches can happen. Luckily, it’s simple to buff them out using mineral oil. Add a few drops to a clean cloth and rub along the sink’s grain (the direction the lines are going). Once you’re satisfied with the appearance, wipe dry with a clean cloth to remove any excess oil and reveal a revitalized sink.

As you can see, it’s simple to care for a stainless steel sink using just a few basic household supplies.

Explore Stainless Steel Sinks for Your Project at Cosmos Surfaces

Now that you know the best way to clean stainless steel sinks, perhaps you’re thinking of replacing your current sink with one of these beautiful, highly durable sinks. The Deco model from Cosmos Surfaces is a stylish and heavy-duty option for modern kitchens.

Deco - Stainless Steel Sink

Cosmos Surfaces is proud to supply homeowners and industry professionals with several different types of stainless steel sinks, including zero- and small-radius sinks. If you are ready to find the ideal sink for your project, browse our inventory or reach out to us for expert assistance.

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Audax is a type of schist that is dynamically layered and one-of-a-kind. The layers create fluid bands of brown, black, silver, and white that is stunningly complex and pleasing to the eye. A work of art, Audax looks beautiful in kitchens and bathrooms. The long bands of layers can be installed as floors and countertops.

What are the Advantages of Quartzite for Bathrooms and Kitchens?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

Scarlet Crystal - Pink Quartzite 3

There are many reasons why quartzite is a trending choice for both kitchen and bathroom remodels right now. Among the many advantages of quartzite is its ease of maintenance, longevity, and effortless beauty. Quartzites are available in a vast range of colors and patterns, whether you want something that looks like marble or a shade that will fit perfectly in your original design. At Cosmos Surfaces, we are experts on what makes quartzite a top choice for designers and homeowners, and we supply the highest quality quartzite for any application.

What are the Advantages of Quartzite?

If you’re wondering why quartzite is known as premium choice for those wanting to install natural stone in a kitchen or bathroom, here are a few reasons:

  • Durability – Quartzite is extremely dense, meaning it’s resistant to stains, moisture, heat, scratches and chips. It is much harder than marble and performs well in high-traffic, high-use areas like the kitchen and bathroom.
  • Maintenance & Longevity – Another pro of quartzite is that it’s very simple to clean and maintain. Unlike marble, it doesn’t require frequent sealing. Plus, this hardwearing countertop material is less likely to fade or hold onto stains as time goes on.
  • Cost – Cost – Quartzite is an affordable luxury with a wide range of pricing depending on your selection. Our experts have something for every budget and can help you choose a stunning quartzite that meets your needs in both cost and style.

Enjoy All the Advantages of Quartzite: Enter a World of Options

Now that you are familiar with some of the top benefits offered by quartzites, you might be eager to see some samples from our collection. Venaria Reale is a gorgeous option from our premium quartzite collection. Venaria Reale creates a calming, mellow atmosphere and is perfect in bathrooms as a vanity, bathtub surround, wall cladding, or floor covering. Quartzites are resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Venaria Reale - Close Up

To see more awe-inspiring quartzite options available from Cosmos Surfaces, head over to our online gallery. Our vast selection includes something for every application and design scheme.

Explore Choices that Suit Your Project with an Expert from Cosmos Surfaces

Cosmos Surfaces offers personalized service to help our customers find the most ideal product for their purposes. Whether you are interested in quartzite, marble, or another high-quality option, you can count on us to provide expert recommendations for your project. Contact us today to find out why we have earned a reputation for offering exceptional customer service and supplying the finest surfacing products around.

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Raphael - Multi Quartzite 3

Named after the artist himself, Raphael is an exquisite work of art when installed in any space, interior or exterior. Rivers of blue and roads of gold traverse a white backdrop to form this masterpiece. The complex variety of color and layering in Raphael make it a perfect match with any aesthetic, modern or rugged, warm or cool. Raphael like other quartzites is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Why Choose Cosmos Surfaces as Your Quartzite Supplier?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

quartzite suppliers

Quartzite has become a wildly popular choice for kitchen countertops and shower walls, among many other design applications. When you consider the numerous benefits of quartzite – including durability, simple maintenance and eye-catching beauty – it’s easy to see why so many home and business owners are using this wonderful natural stone. If you’re looking  to use a quartzite for a project, it’s important to choose a trustworthy supplier such as Cosmos Surfaces. Read on to learn about what makes us one of the best quartzite suppliers in the industry.

Top Wholesale Quartzite Suppliers: Why We’re the #1 Choice

Thinking of using quartzite for your next renovation project, or have a customer who has requested quartzite for their kitchen or bathroom? Here’s why you should source your materials from us:

  • 30+ Years of Experience – As a second generation family-operated company, Cosmos Surfaces offers over three decades of industry knowledge and expertise. You can depend on our team to guide you to a surfacing material that is perfectly suited to your project and your design, whatever it may be.
  • Commitment to Customer Service – As a customer-focused business, we’re not happy unless you are. We go above and beyond to make sure our customers are highly satisfied, whether you’re a vendor, an industry professional or a homeowner. Our mission is to become the preferred and most accessible supplier in the industry for all types of surfaces and complimentary products.
  • Vast Inventory – Because we know that everyone has different tastes and preferences, and every project calls for a unique look, we offer over a hundred different quartzites varying in patterns and colors to choose from. Our quartzite collection also features gorgeous grays, golds, whites and tans. Citrino is just one of many stunning quartzite options we offer.

Citrino - White Quartzite

Find Competitively Priced Large Format Quartzite at Cosmos Surfaces

Dedicated to bringing our customers the finest surfacing materials coupled with the most outstanding service, Cosmos Surfaces has become a sought after and well respected supplier in the stone industry. Our knowledgeable team members are here to help you find the right material for your project, whether it’s quartzite or another premium material. If you’re ready to experience the Cosmos difference, reach out to us today.

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Like the heart of a hurricane or the eye of a tornado, Phoenix Blue is a stormy cloud of blues, reds, greys, and whites. The swirling patterns draw the eyes in a captivating display of texture and layering. Phoenix Blue is a daring and rewarding choice for flooring, countertops, fountains, and fireplaces. Phoenix Blue like other quartzites is resistant to scratching, staining, and fading, and the beauty is unmatched.

Where to Find Porcelain Slabs That Look Like Marble

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

porcelain slabs that look like marble

While porcelain and marble are both popular surface materials, porcelain slabs that look like marble might have you wondering which option is best suited to your needs. You may prefer the appearance of marble, but want to take advantage of some of the other wonderful qualities of porcelain. Luckily, large format porcelain tiles are available in diverse colors and styles, so it’s easy to find porcelain that looks like marble in our selection at Cosmos Surfaces. Let’s take a look at how porcelain and marble compare, so you can consider all of the factors when making your choice.

Durability

While both materials are extremely durable, they are rated on different scales of hardness. Marble is rated on the Mohs hardness scale and comes in between 3 and 5 – this means marble is highly durable, whichever type you choose. Porcelain tiles are rated on a PEI (Porcelain Enamel Institute) scale. Porcelain tiles with a hardness rating of 4 to 5 are suited for heavier foot traffic in homes and businesses, while a rating of 3 is suitable for residential and light foot traffic. We can help you find a porcelain that will be perfect for your needs.

Cost

Some types of marble are less expensive than others, while porcelain is a less expensive option in general. The cost of installation factors in as well. Porcelain can sometimes be more expensive to install, as it may require a special grout. Average costs for materials and installation come in at around $8 to $15 per square foot for porcelain tile, while marble can range from $9 to $24.

Maintenance

Porcelain is a dense, hard material and is often glazed. This makes it easy to clean, water resistant, stain resistant, and safe for use with most popular cleaning products. You can refer to our easy guide on how to clean porcelain tile. Marble is more porous, which means you may have to be a little more careful about preventing stains and contact with acidic substances. Marble requires appropriate cleaning products and needs to be sealed to protect against accidents.

Installation

Marble is heavy and requires underlying support. You may want to lay marble tiles out prior to installation to arrange an aesthetically pleasing pattern (the same applies to porcelain tiles made to mimic the look of marble.) Porcelain tiles, though not as heavy as marble, may also need underlying support. The method of installation will depend on the application, so it’s best to get expert advice when choosing a material.

How Cosmos Surfaces Can Help

If you desire the look of marble but would like a less expensive option that is easier to clean and maintain, porcelain slabs that look like marble are a great solution! Cosmos Surfaces is proud to showcase our new porcelain tile collection – OPULITH. We offer a premium variety of patterns and colors that can bring the look and feel of luxury into your space. Cosmos Surfaces brings over three decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. Fill out our or give us a call today to get started!

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Sapphire Blue - Brown Granite 3

Unearth the exquisite blue and brown patterns hidden in Sapphire Blue, which is a highly polished brown granite that gleams like a trove of precious gems. Sapphire Blue exudes luxury and rarity, and its exotic blend of blue, brown, black, and grey is a shining example of the earth’s most incredible natural creations.

What Makes Cosmos Surfaces the Best Supplier of Large Porcelain Slabs?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

large porcelain slabs

Large porcelain slabs have taken the design industry by storm – and for good reason! This material is beautiful and hardy with the ability to elevate any space. In this article, we’ll take a look at the uses and benefits of large format porcelain tiles and how Cosmos Surfaces can provide the best surface materials for your space.

The Many Uses of Large Format Porcelain Tiles

Porcelain slabs can be used indoors for countertops, backsplash, sinks, showers, walls, floors, tubs, furniture and around fireplaces. Its outdoor applications include pools, cladding, patios and more. With the right preparations, large format porcelain can be installed over existing flooring and countertops, which makes this option ideal for home-renovation projects.

The Benefits of Porcelain Slabs

  • Heat Resistant: Porcelain is highly heat resistant, which makes it a great choice for kitchen countertops or for installation around fireplaces.
  • Scratch Resistant: Everyday wear and tear is hardly a concern with this durable material.
  • Stain Resistant: Porcelain is dense and less porous than other materials, which makes it easy to clean and highly stain resistant.
  • Low Maintenance: Porcelain does not require intensive ongoing maintenance to keep it looking gorgeous and new. For example, see our detailed guide on how to clean porcelain kitchen sink and tile.
  • Seamless Look: Large format tiles or slabs come with the additional benefit of having fewer joints or seams upon installation, which allows for a sleek, luxurious look.

What Makes Cosmos Surfaces the Best Supplier of Large Porcelain Slabs?

We are proud to showcase our new porcelain tile collection – OPULITH. You can also take a look at our process for making porcelain slabs . We offer a variety of patterns and colors that can take your home or business to new levels of functionality, beauty and luxury.

Cosmos brings over three decades of knowledge and industry experience to the table. As a 2nd generation family-owned company, our team is passionate about our mission of connecting North American businesses and consumers to exceptional materials in a way that is respectful to local communities and the environment.

Whether you are a homeowner, industry professional, vendor or supplier, you can trust Cosmos Surfaces to meet your needs. Get in touch by filling out our contact form today – our team of experts is happy to advise and assist!

Color of the Month: Mosaic Blue

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 18-4528, Mosaic Blue! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “The teal Mosaic Blue displays an air of mystique, grace and depth of feeling.”

Agate Azure - Blue Semi-Precious 3

Agate Azure is a form of the naturally occurring  crystal; a bold, beautiful semi-precious stone that can be installed for countertops, wall applications, backsplashes, and more. The deep ocean blues and unique handpicked stones make this blue agate an exquisite work of art.

How to Clean Porcelain Kitchen Sinks: Tips from the Experts at Cosmos

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to clean porcelain kitchen sink

When it comes to kitchen sinks and tiles, porcelain is one of the best options. It’s highly durable and resistant to scratching, chipping, heat, and water pressure. Cosmos Surfaces has recently launched a new large format porcelain tile collection – OPULITH. Creating your dream kitchen has never been so easy with so many beautiful porcelain options. Best of all, it’s very easy to clean! Here are some tips on how to clean porcelain kitchen sink and tile.

How to Clean Porcelain Kitchen Sink and Tile

Cleaning porcelain in your kitchen can be a bit different than cleaning porcelain in the rest of your home. Your kitchen is probably very high-traffic, and the materials that come into contact with your porcelain kitchen sink are different than in your bathroom. Here are some tips on how to clean porcelain kitchen sink and tile.

  • Wipe down messes immediately. Your kitchen likely experiences a lot of spills, crumbs, and liquid messes. Although porcelain is durable and stain-resistant, letting crumbs and liquid sit on your porcelain for too long can make it a little tougher to clean. Play it safe by always wiping up a mess as soon as it happens.
  • Don’t keep dishware in your sink for too long. Dishes and metal silverware can leave stains and residue, and this is true in any kind of kitchen sink. Keep your porcelain looking its finest by cleaning and putting your dishes back where they belong.
  • If you do accumulate orange rust stains, naval jelly is an effective product. Avoid mixing any acids and rinse quickly and thoroughly after use.
  • For everyday cleaning, use gentle dish soap and a soft towel or sponge. A magic eraser is a great tool, but any other non-abrasive sponge will work.
  • Bleach can work for tougher stains, but is safest on white porcelain. Make sure to rinse with plenty of water after using bleach. For a grey porcelain, like Ocean Grey, diluted white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide will usually be sufficient. Remember to clean the surface thoroughly with water afterwards.

Tip: Using a grid in the sink helps avoid scratches from cutlery and dishes to a large extent.

Install Premium Porcelain in Your Kitchen Today

Due to its durability, high resistance to stains, and low-maintenance cleaning, Cosmos Surfaces recommends porcelain for kitchen sinks and tile. Our new porcelain collection from OPULITH offers diverse options that look fantastic in kitchens, like Apilar White. For more information on how to clean a porcelain kitchen sink and tile, contact our experts! Check out our blog for more great info and fill out our online form to speak with our team.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

Bring a touch of warmth to any kitchen countertop or bathroom vanity top with Tornado Yellow. A flurry of mustards, chocolate browns and quartz white veins, this granite countertop is the perfect balance of cheer and chic.

Discover Premium Quartz for Kitchens and Bathrooms

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

quartz countertops suppliers

Quartz is one of the most gorgeous and durable materials to use for countertops of any kind. If you’re looking for quartz countertops suppliers, Cosmos Surfaces is one of the leading distributors in the industry. We have a wide variety of options when it comes to countertops for kitchens, bathrooms, and more. Cosmos believes that your creative vision and aesthetic can be achieved with the right materials and expertise. Our three decades in the industry combined with our creative spirit are the perfect blend to help you find the quartz countertop that’s right for you.

Premium Quartz Countertops for Kitchens, Bathrooms, and More

Our large format quartz crosses a wide spectrum of color and origin, so we can help you find the perfect choice for your quartz countertop. Our options will dazzle and delight, as well as meet your design goals. Quartz is a non-porous manufactured stone with a wider range of colors and patterns than natural stone. Here are just a few options from our quartz collection:

  • Craven White is a beautiful option for those looking for a contemporary white quartz. It evokes a cool and refreshing atmosphere, reminiscent of an Arctic retreat. Craven White is perfect for modern kitchens.

  • For those looking for a darker grey quartz, Ferro Grey is a stunning option. A sophisticated quartz, Ferro Grey evokes durability and strength. If you want your countertop to act as the focal point of your kitchen, Ferro Grey is the way to go.

  • Starry Night is a dark, deep obsidian quartz speckled with iridescent flecks, just like a starlit sky. This quartz is sure to make a statement in any space, bringing an element of elegance and sophistication. Starry Night is perfect for any room in which you’d like to evoke a sparkling nightscape.

  • One of our more unusual quartz options is Kona Dragon. A fierce blend of brown, grey, and gold, Kona Dragon is a commanding option that matches with any aesthetic and adds variety to any kitchen, bathroom, or exterior area.

Your Dream Home is Waiting – Contact Us Today

As an experienced team of quartz countertops suppliers, Cosmos Surfaces offers a variety of quartz options to make your dream home a reality. Whether you’re looking for kitchen, bathroom, or exterior quartz countertop options, Cosmos has a diverse and extensive catalogue. For more information on quartz or quartz countertop options, check out our blog or fill out our online form.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

Vyara Gold brings to mind the shifting sands of a vast desert at sunrise. This dusky gold and taupe granite with veins of red and brown is a warm and attractive granite, perfect for a welcoming kitchen or bathroom.

How to Clean Porcelain Tile

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

how to clean porcelain tile

If you’re looking to redo your living room, bathroom or kitchen, you’ll need to consider what type of material to use for your countertop,  showers, and other surfaces. Porcelain tile is becoming increasingly popular as a high-quality material for showers and countertops, and for good reason. Here is a handy guide from Cosmos Surfaces on everything you need to know about porcelain tile, including what sets it apart from other materials, why it’s so low maintenance, and how to clean porcelain tile so that it stays beautiful throughout the years.

Advantages of Using Porcelain Tile in Bathrooms and Kitchens

You can’t go wrong with porcelain tile for floors, showers, countertops, and exterior surfaces. Here are a few reasons why porcelain tile steals the show:

  • Porcelain tile is a beautiful low-maintenance alternative to granite or marble. Advanced manufacturing technology allows for porcelain tile to mimic the appearance of natural marble, like our Sicily White porcelain. The color options for porcelain are growing all the time.

sicily white

  • Porcelain fits with a variety of aesthetics, from modern to classical to minimalistic.
  • Porcelain tile is heat, scratch, and chip-resistant.
  • The nonporous nature of porcelain means the material doesn’t require sealing, which can cut costs and makes it easy to care for over time.
  • Porcelain is highly resistant to wear and tear in the long term. That’s why it is great for bathrooms and kitchens, which are used often by every member of the family.
  • Porcelain tiles are also very dense, making them resistant to stains and a perfect material to withstand constant contact with water, food, beauty and makeup materials, toothpaste, heat, and more.
  • The large size of these porcelain slabs also reduces the number of grout lines we see, thus making the surface more aesthetically appealing.
  • Lastly, porcelain is extremely low maintenance and easy to clean. Porcelain tiles resist stains, keeping the daily upkeep to a minimum. It is highly durable and not easily damaged. It’s also easy to find resources for how to clean porcelain tile, including our step-by-step guide below and more tips in the FAQs and Resources Sections.

How to Clean Porcelain Tile Like the Pros

One of the greatest benefits of installing porcelain tile in a bathroom or kitchen is that it’s so easy to keep clean. The more often you clean it, the longer it will last and the nicer it will look. Only a couple of minutes per day are required to keep your porcelain shining. Here’s our guide for how to clean porcelain tile:

  • Daily Cleaning: Daily upkeep for porcelain isn’t complicated or time-consuming. To keep your porcelain in tip-top shape and make it easier when you deep clean it once in a while, simply rinse your porcelain off after using it or wipe it down with a gentle sponge. It’s best not to let soap residue, toothpaste, food spills, or anything else sit for too long.

Giving your sink a quick rinse after brushing your teeth or using a mild daily shower spray will eliminate frequent deep cleaning and keep your porcelain always looking its best. Avoid keeping items on porcelain that will rust or leave residue, like metal rings and jewelry.

  • Weekly Cleaning: Just once a week, wipe down your porcelain more thoroughly with a sponge or washcloth. Using a simple cleaning spray will sufficiently clean any bacteria, germs, and buildup that amassed over the course of a week. This will help maximize the beauty and life of your porcelain, especially if you skip daily upkeep sometimes.
  • Monthly Cleaning: Once a month or so, it’s best to do a more thorough deep clean. This is where you get into every nook and cranny. With regular upkeep, the deep clean should be very quick and easy. A magic eraser and diluted white vinegar are great tools to use when deep cleaning porcelain. If you do encounter a stain on white porcelain, you can use diluted bleach with CIF cream or Mr. Muscle. Just make sure you rinse your porcelain with lots of water afterwards.

Install Beautiful Porcelain Tile Today

Cosmos Surfaces highly recommends porcelain tile in bathrooms and kitchens. That’s why we launched our new large format porcelain collection, OPULITH. Including styles that are great for countertops and bathroom walls, such as the striking Roman Grey, OPULITH from Cosmos Surfaces gives you plenty of options when it comes to designing your dream space.

roman grey

At Cosmos, our goal is to provide our customers with superior quality products at competitive prices and unparalleled service. Quality and Service are given the highest regard in every decision we make. Our founding principles combined with our highly trained and capable team members have helped us become one of the leading distributors in the industry. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

ora caravelas

Ora Caravelas is a complex yellow and blue granite with a stunningly textured pattern. This exotic Brazilian granite is polished to a high shine and makes an eye-catching choice for any indoor or outdoor application.

How to Clean a Composite Sink: Tips from Cosmos Surfaces

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

Made from granite stone dust mixed with acrylic resins, granite composite sinks are highly durable, stylish and affordable. But just like any type of sink, composite granite requires regular TLC to keep it clean and gorgeous. In this week’s blog, Cosmos Surfaces offers a few helpful pointers for how to clean a composite sink.

How to Clean a Composite Sink Like a Pro

  • Everyday Cleaning – To sanitize and prevent stains, we recommend gently scrubbing your composite sink with a soft nylon brush and soapy water on a daily basis. Once you’ve done so, be sure to rinse the sink thoroughly with regular water and then towel dry to avoid spots on the finish.
  • Deep Cleaning – If you start to notice stains or a cloudy finish, it’s time to mix up a gentle solution of equal parts white vinegar and water, or create a paste using baking soda and a few drops of water. Apply the homemade cleaning agent of your choice to your composite sink, focusing on any areas that are stained or dull looking. Then, simply rinse and wipe dry for a revitalized sink!
  • Lifting Stubborn Stains – If stains linger after using the above method, try using a stronger solution of equal parts bleach and water. Once again, rinse and dry the sink thoroughly after cleaning. This should take care of even the toughest stains.

While composite sinks are quite resistant to stains and scratches, it’s important to note that they can be damaged by harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing devices. Stick to these guidelines for how to clean a composite sink, and you will easily preserve the beauty of your sink while extending its lifespan.

Find the Sink of Your Dreams at Cosmos Surfaces

Composite sinks are an attractive and easy-to-maintain option for any kitchen or bathroom. The Vortex 50/50 Double Bowl Composite Sink might be the one for you if you’re a fan of spacious, stain-resistant sinks with a sleek black finish. Vortex sinks are quite possibly the toughest sinks on the market, with 3/8th” thick walls and increased center support.

Vortex 50:50 Double Bowl Sink - Composite Sink

Or, you might prefer one of the several types of stainless steel sinks we offer. For example, the stunning Windsor L is a classic,  brushed stainless steel sink that will work in any style of kitchen.

Windsor L Sink - Stainless Steel Sink

No matter what type of sink you’re shopping for, you can find a wide variety of high-quality, beautiful products at Cosmos Surfaces.

To browse our full selection of sinks and locate the ideal product for your project, click over to the product section of our website. We are committed to delivering the very best customer service and expert advice, whether you’re buying for a residential or commercial project. Please feel free to reach out to us if you’d like personalized assistance from a member of our team!

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

With a trademark pattern reminiscent of a jaguar’s magnificent spotted coat, Jaguar is a fierce granite from Brazil. Moderately varied, its coloring darts from copper to beige to brown, with black dots in between. Sleek and mesmerizing as the big cat after which it is named, Jaguar is an enthralling choice for countertops, vanity tops, table tops, bar tops and more.

Why a Porcelain Slab Shower Is the Best Option for Your Renovation

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

porcelain slab shower

Across the U.S. and Europe, large format porcelain tile has become a beloved option for an extensive list of design applications. Owing to its impressive durability, easy maintainability and many other favorable features, porcelain is now a top contender for design projects like kitchen countertops, bathroom vanity tops, shower and tub surrounds, fireplaces, floors and more. Of particular popularity among discerning homeowners is the porcelain slab shower – a stunning, decidedly modern choice that’s as hardwearing as it is beautiful. The brand new Large Format Porcelain Tile Collection – Opulith from Cosmos Surfaces includes something for every taste, project and budget.

What Makes Porcelain So Wonderful for Shower Walls & Floors?

The selection of materials for shower walls and floors can be overwhelming. If you’re currently considering several different options for your bathroom renovation, here’s why porcelain should be a standout on your list:

  • Very dense and resistant to water absorption
  • Resistant to scratches, stains and chips
  • Retains heat well
  • Requires little maintenance
  • Available in a wide range of patterns and colors
  • Very easy to install in slab form
  • Due to the size of the slabs, the number of grout lines are greatly reduced

Another great thing about using large format porcelain tile to give your shower a facelift? This durable material can be installed over existing stone, meaning you may be able to skip the work of removing your old shower walls!

Cleaning Your Porcelain Slab Shower

As mentioned above, porcelain is incredibly easy to take care of, which is a must-have quality for your shower. It’s safe to use any type of gentle multipurpose cleaner in a porcelain shower. Just be sure to wipe your porcelain shower dry after cleaning to avoid unwanted water marks.

Find Breathtaking Porcelain Tile at Cosmos Surfaces

Looking for the perfect porcelain for your shower renovation? We recommend Sicily White, a refined and elegant style that’s suitable for shower walls and floors. Featuring smoke gray veining and specks on a backdrop of milky white, this slab will lend modern beauty to any bathroom.

Sicily White - White Porcelain - Bernini Classic Bookmatch

Explore our entire selection of porcelain slabs for showers and much more! Whether you are a homeowner, an industry professional, a vendor or a supplier, we are here to answer any questions you may have about our high-quality, competitively priced porcelain tiling. Reach out today to find out why we’re known for outstanding customer service and unbeatable product quality.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

Aurum is the Latin word for gold, so it’s no surprise Aurum Ivory captures heavenly radiance with its gentle, curling golden veining. The angelic delicacy of this white quartz is unmatched, and its polished finish makes it a pristine choice for bathrooms, kitchens, and beyond. Enjoy a serene retreat into the clouds with the help of this elevating white quartz.

What are the Different Types of Stainless Steel Sinks?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

types of stainless steel sinks

Stainless steel sinks have become the standard for modern kitchens everywhere, in both residential and commercial settings. Consider the long list of benefits offered by these sleek sinks, and it’s easy to see why they’re a modern-day kitchen staple! Not to mention there are various different types of stainless steel sinks available from Cosmos Surfaces, making it simple to create a customized look. From the shape to the finish, there are so many choices when it comes to the features of your stainless steel sink.

5 Perks of Opting for a Stainless Steel Sink

Before we discuss features, we’d first like to share a few reasons why so many homeowners choose stainless steel sinks for kitchen and bathroom applications:

  1. Stain- and heat-resistant
  2. Simple to clean and disinfect
  3. Affordable
  4. Highly durable
  5. Won’t crack or chip

Types of Stainless Steel Sinks: Shape & Finish Options

Once you’ve decided that a stainless steel sink is the right option for your project, it’s time to consider the various types of stainless steel sinks available. Which shape and finish will work best for your purposes and your space? Here are a few things you should know:

  • Shape – Stainless steel sinks can be found in virtually every shape imaginable, from square to D-shaped to rectangular. When shopping for a sink, be sure to note the corner shape as well:
    • Zero-radius sinks have perfectly square corners for an ultra-modern look. These include the Mercury R0 and the Phoenix R0 sinks from Cosmos.

    • Small-radius sinks have more rounded corners for a sleek and smooth surface, such as the Mercury R10 and the Phoenix R10 from Cosmos. The radius in the corners makes it easier to remove any grime and keep the corners clean.

Phoenix R10 Single Bowl Sink - Stainless Steel Sink

  • Finish – When it comes to sink finish, the best choice will mainly depend on what kind of appearance you prefer. Lustrous without being overly glossy, a satin finish is the most popular option for stainless steel sinks. If you enjoy extra shine, you might select a mirror finish instead. There are also brushed, matte and textured finishes available for some sinks.

Caring for Stainless Steel Sinks

It’s very easy to care for and maintain stainless steel sinks. Stainless steel only needs to be wiped down regularly with dish soap and water. Smudges and streaks can be easily buffed out with a microfiber towel. Just avoid using steel wool or abrasive scrubbers, which may scratch the sink. For more tips about cleaning stainless steel, here’s a helpful article from Good Housekeeping.

Hopefully, this information will come in handy as you choose between the various types of stainless steel sinks.

We’re Here to Help You Select the Right Stainless Steel Sink for Your Project

As one of the leading suppliers of stainless steel sinks in the U.S., Cosmos Surfaces has a team of friendly experts ready to help you find the best sink style for your needs and desired aesthetic. Head over to our website to browse our large selection of stainless steel sinks, or get in touch to be connected with one of our representatives. We aim to provide our customers with superior quality products and unparalleled service.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

Sicily Gold - White Porcelain - Bernini Gold Bookmatch

The contrast of brilliant, shimmering gold with pure white porcelain is the thrilling essence of Sicily Gold. It is the meeting of luxury and refinement, a gilded chance encounter resulting in complete balance. Designed for use inside or outdoors, it is the perfect choice for floors, counters and walls in kitchens, bathrooms, and living rooms.

Why Are Porcelains a Trending Choice for Kitchen Countertops?

Posted on by Cosmos SurfacesTM

Taj Mahal - Champaign Porcelain - Kitchen Floor

There are many qualities you’ll want to look for in a kitchen countertop. First and foremost, it’s important for the counter to be resilient so that it will last for years to come. At the same time, you want something that reflects your personal style and complements the rest of your design scheme. In recent years, porcelain has become a popular choice among homeowners seeking exceptional style and function from their kitchen countertops. Cosmos offers premium porcelain slabs for kitchen countertops and more in many different colors and styles, under our brand new Large Format Porcelain Tile Collection – Opulith.

Why Consider Porcelain for Your Kitchen Countertop?

When comparing kitchen countertop materials, you may find yourself feeling a bit overwhelmed. To help you decide if porcelain is a good fit for your project, we’re here to break down the benefits this material has to offer:

  • Easy to Maintain – Unlike granite and certain other stones, porcelain doesn’t require polishing or sealing. This means less maintenance work, both at the time of installation and later on.
  • Beautiful & Versatile – Also known as large format tiles, porcelain slabs for kitchen countertops are available in a wide range of patterns, colors and textures. Whether you’re going for a simple or bold look, there’s bound to be a porcelain style that catches your eye. They are also a fantastic choice for backsplashes due to their light weight and thickness.
  • Highly Durable – Porcelain is known as a hard-wearing countertop material for good reason. It is harder than granite and very dense. You can count on porcelain to resist stains, scratches, chips, and even UV light, making it a viable choice for both indoor and outdoor kitchen countertops. It is perfect for high traffic and heavy use areas.
  • Cost – Achieving the sophisticated and elegant look of a Calacatta or quartzite adorned kitchen without breaking the bank has never been easier. These porcelains are economical to purchase, install and maintain.

As you can see, a porcelain kitchen countertop is a stunning, statement-making choice that offers many practical advantages, while embodying elegance and style.

Shopping for a Kitchen Countertop? Reach Out to Cosmos for Expert Assistance

At Cosmos Surfaces, we draw on years of industry experience to help homeowners find the perfect material and style for their kitchen countertops. If you’d like professional, personalized assistance as you search for your ideal kitchen countertop, get in touch with us today! Whether you’re interested in porcelain, granite or another material, you’ll have access to an extensive selection of high-quality, competitively priced options when you work with Cosmos.

Color of the Month: Sunlight

This month’s featured trending color is Pantone 13-0822, Sunlight! The Pantone Color Trend Report says, “Soft Sunlight invites happiness, pleasant cheer and a smiling presence.”

Our Taj Mahal Porcelain is a champagne colored porcelain with fine, soft lines of almost iridescent gold—worth being called one of the world’s seven wonders. The subtle golden hues of this material pairs well with browns, ivories, greys and other neutrals. Use outdoors on an open patio to see how this gorgeous color dances in the sunlight.

Still not convinced about Porcelain? Check out the real deal with our Taj Mahal Quartzite!

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