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Feb 03 2023

7 Easy Tips for a Cleaner and Fresher Home This Spring

Happy spring! ‘Tis season most of us are looking forward to — where the trees are budding new leaves, the flowers are beginning to bloom again, and the warm sunlight touches our skin longer each day! But, like all matters of spring and beginnings, this season is also perfect for cleaning and sprucing up!

We feel you! It can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. Having a clean, decluttered, and rejuvenated home might not be the easiest of tasks, but trust us — a refreshed and thoroughly cleansed home is one of the best springtime pick-me-ups there is! Aside from that extra serotonin boost, it gives you a head start before the hectic summer season arrives!

Today, we’re sharing seven easy tips to make cleaning more efficient this season. Spring cleaning can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be difficult! So without further ado, let’s begin!

Start with a plan

To avoid the pitfalls of deep cleaning, always start with a plan. Start by taking a tour of your home, assessing the needs of every space, and then making a schedule. Use a checklist and update as needed to avoid forgetting anything. You can also create a checklist for each room to help you get organized and remind you of any areas that might require extra attention.

For example, if you plan to hire air duct cleaning services, you can call your provider and make arrangements before or after your cleaning day. If you have carpets or drapes that will require a specialist to clean, plan for the pickup and delivery so that they can deliver at your preferred date and time.

Check for hardware or equipment that might need repair or replacement

During your house tour, list down the things that might need repair or replacement. For example, do you have a leaky faucet? Does your countertop need resealing, or do you need to have it replaced or upgraded entirely? Are your appliances still working efficiently?

Repairing something as soon as you spot them can save you the burden of extensive planning and expenses in the future.

Get everyone to help

They say ask for help when you need it and you shall receive it, and spring cleaning is no exception. Assign chores for everyone, throw on some good music, and create a collective household reward to get the work done!

Organize and declutter

If you have items sitting in your attic, basement, cupboards, or closet that you haven’t used in recent years, maybe it’s time to throw them away, sell them, or donate them!

You can use bins, baskets, or boxes to store your items as you declutter every area in your home. For example, you can designate a space for the containers while considering everything. Or, you can bring the containers to every area while you declutter and categorize. It’s also best to set up your containers before you start. It can save you time as you won’t need to look for bins, boxes, or baskets while you’re decluttering.

Sort your items into different categories:

Keep: These are for items that have been misplaced in a room. This could be a toothbrush on your kitchen counter or pajamas in the living room. All in all, these items have their own spots and purpose in your home.

Repair: These are for items that can be repaired, like a missing button on a blouse or an appliance that needs servicing.

Sell: These are items you can no longer use, but you can sell. A tip, if you have no time to list your items for sale, put them in the next pile.

Donate: These are for items that didn’t make the piles above, and you may have no use for anymore, but others may have. This pile can be donated to an organization or to someone you know.

Throw Away: These are items that you can throw away immediately as they are simply of no use anymore, to you or anyone else. Don’t forget to recycle if you are throwing away paper, plastic, or glass!

Build a cleaning kit

Stick to the basics: an excellent all-purpose cleaner and microfiber cloth can usually do the trick. If you need to purchase other specialty cleaning supplies, do only as necessary and keep them to a minimum. Numerous cleaning supplies can also create unnecessary clutter.

Do it room by room

Cleaning an entire home is a big job, and the most effective way to do this is to approach it room by room. Focus on one room or area before moving on to the next space. Visually experiencing the success of your work per room can help with confidence and momentum.

Always be tidying

Maintenance is key, and spring cleaning is one of the best ways to establish ongoing cleaning habits. After doing your overhaul, you can re-tackle everything on your spring cleaning to-do list for at least 15-30 minutes each day — that’s at least 2-3 hours of cleaning time per week!

Carving out time each day can get you in the habit of tidying up and will make maintenance and cleaning much more manageable in the future.

We’ve got just the thing for you! Download your free Countertops Buyer’s Guide without commitments and achieve everything you want without confusion, frustration, or stress! Plus, you’ll gain access to exclusive offers!

Planning to refresh and upgrade your home this spring? We are ready to help you choose the perfect set of counters, cabinets, and fixtures to complement your home. From the design process to installation, we’re by your side. Count on us for all of your custom kitchen renovation needs!

P.S. Let’s talk about your home renovation project, and we’ll provide you with the resources you need to ensure your experience is simple and pleasant every step of the way.

Happy Remodeling and Happy Spring!

Dekton Countertop | cosentino.com

Schedule a FREE consultation with our specialists here.

Feb 03 2023

Simple and Practical Tips to Refresh Your Home This New Year

The new year is a perfect time to turn over a new leaf and take charge of your health or home. It’s a great time for reflection and action, as you make space for the new things to come. For most of us, decluttering is one of the easiest ways to manifest new mindsets, as it allows you to let go of things that no longer have value in your daily life.

Do you have items that have been sitting in your attic, basement, cupboards, or closet that you haven’t used in the past years? Then, it’s time to throw them away, sell them, or donate them! Decluttering can be very therapeutic, but, of course, most homeowners can’t do it all in one day. The trick is to slowly carve out time during weekends (or whenever you’re free), so you can create a plan that is practical, sustainable, and aligns with your schedule.

First Tip: The Five Categories for the Items You Don’t Want to Keep

Return: These are for items that have been misplaced in a room. This could be a toothbrush on your kitchen counter or pajamas in the living room. All in all, these items have their own spots in your home.

Recycle: These are for items that can be recycled, such as paper, plastic, or glass.

Repair: These are for items that can be repaired, like a missing button on a blouse or an appliance that needs servicing.

Rehome: These are for items that you can donate to an organization or to someone you know.

Rest: These are items that can ultimately rest — meaning, you can throw away these things immediately as you’ve outgrown them. They are simply of no use anymore or can’t be repaired/donated.

You can use bins, baskets, or boxes to store your items as you declutter every area in your home. For example, you can designate an area for the containers while considering everything. Or, you can bring the containers to every area while you declutter and categorize as you go. It’s also best to set up your containers before you start. It can save you time as you won’t need to look for bins, boxes, or baskets while you’re decluttering.

Decluttering an entire home is a big job. Instead, focus on one room or area before moving on to the next space. This can also build confidence and momentum, especially after visually experiencing the success of your work. Read more below for some tips and ideas to get you started!

Bedrooms

Start with the bed and make it. Then, go over your nightstands and drawers. Remove anything that doesn’t belong there. These can be a pile of books you’re done reading, medications that have their own place, or chargers that you usually use in the living room.

If you have a desk or vanity in your bedroom, do those next. Then, toss, donate or recycle any item you no longer use.

Now, it’s time to take a deep breath because we’ll be doing closets and clothing next.

Closets and Clothing

The easiest way to declutter a closet is to do so by type. This means to start with one clothing category as you go: dresses, blouses, shirts, pants, undergarments, shoes, boots, bags, accessories, etc. Take out everything, lay them in your bed if needed, and decide which ones you’ll toss and keep.

Choosing between keeping or donating will be much easier if you look at everything you own per category. You can also use the one-year rule for every piece of clothing you own. If you haven’t worn it in the past year, it’s very likely that you won’t wear it again. Do the same with everything you ended up not keeping. Organize it into the five bins and move on to the next area.

Entryway

This can equate to the traditional mudroom or foyer — but note that this applies to every entryway — be it huge or small.

Start with desks or side tables, take everything out, and make a quick decision to throw away or keep any item. Next, move on to the hall closet. Categorize every item to clothing, footwear, accessories, etc., and return the things you will keep to their designated spaces.

Living Room

If your living room gets a lot of use, it may be one of the most challenging rooms to maintain daily — but arguably, the easiest to declutter. This is simply because, for most homes, their living room storages are kept to a minimum — aka bookcases, side tables, and the space under the coffee table, which already have items of their own.

To start:

Go over your console, side tables, and bookcases.
Continue to your coffee table and entertainment system.
Empty each area, assess if they belong there, and categorize it into the bins if needed.

For homes with young kids, you can also create a toy station. This can be a basket or box or bin or a small chest — really, it’s up to you! Kids can fill this with toys or everyday articles they bring to the living room. Again, this can help keep your space organized. Plus, it can be a fun activity for your kids as they can change up the contents as often as they like — as long as it fits.

The Kitchen

Start with your staple storage spaces, like the pantry, fridge, and dishware cabinets. Then move onto the lower cabinets with utensils, drawers with baking equipment, countertops with lingering dishes, and the space under the kitchen sink.

Donate or toss out old kitchen utensils and dishes that are either broken, you no longer use, or have in multiples. You can also use drawer inserts to keep things organized after decluttering.

The Bathroom / Laundry Room / Basement / Other Rooms

Start with one area at a time. For example, you can begin with your bathrooms, particularly your medicine cabinet. Throw away expired medications, skincare products, makeup, etc. If you already know how to arrange them based on your needs, then please absolutely do that.

Afterward, do the same as you go over every other room in your home. Once you’re done editing your items, everything that fell out of place can be categorized into your bins.

Whether it’s under the guise of spring cleaning or simply a new-year-new-you approach, a good, deep purge doesn’t always have to be a chore. Be realistic with your time and lifestyle. Think about the items you use every day, the items you use occasionally, and the items you rarely use. Give yourself permission to donate or throw away things you think are no longer necessary in your home.

So today, empty your fridge and throw out expired condiments, box up any outgrown clothes to donate or give to someone and restyle your counters and storage if needed. It’s time to turn over a new leaf!

Planning to refresh and upgrade your home this year? We are ready to help you choose the perfect set of counters, cabinets, and fixtures to complement your home. From the design process to installation, we’re by your side. Count on us for all of your custom kitchen renovation needs!

P.S. Let’s talk about your home renovation project, and we’ll provide you with the resources you need to ensure your experience is simple and pleasant every step of the way.

Happy Remodeling and Happy New Year!

Risegate | Photo Credit: Cambria Quartz

Jan 12 2023

8 Countertop Materials To Refresh Your Kitchen This New Year

Your countertops are one of your kitchen’s most heavily used areas. It’s no wonder choosing the best countertop is such a hard decision — it can make a kitchen more functional. Plus, they significantly influence your kitchen’s feel and look.

If you’re looking to spruce up or create your dream kitchen this year, we got you covered! Today, we’re sharing eight options you can consider for your countertops. Read more below and find out which countertop material best suits your preference and needs!

Granite

Granite is the leading option when looking at natural stones for your countertop. Granite is very durable and can be customized to your specifications. Granite is also heat- and stain-resistant, making it an excellent material for countertops.

However, granite is an expensive material since it is a natural stone. It is also a porous stone and requires periodic sealing to protect it from stains. That said, having a granite countertop is an investment in itself since its durability and price can affect the real estate value of your home. Aside from this, no two pieces of granite are alike, making every countertop entirely unique!

Check out some of the granite countertops we offer here:
https://www.edgranitecity.com/countertops/granite/

Need help with your home renovation?
If new cabinets, appliances, plumbing, or countertops are within your budget,
by all means, go for it! Check out some of our services here:
https://www.edgranitecity.com/services/

Thanksgiving Refreshments

Set up a table or fridge with an assortment of single-serve liqueurs, mixers, bitters, tonic, seltzer, ice, some beers, and maybe a few different bottles of wine (with an option for disposable or eco-friendly cups). Generally, it’s always better to overestimate how many drinks you’ll need than run out mid-celebration.

You can also add a dispenser with water infused with fresh fruit, pitchers of lemonade, or sodas and juices. An easy-to-use drink dispenser for drinks will save you time and effort since you’ll only be responsible for refills if it runs low.

Finally: The Thanksgiving Spread!

Appetizers and nibbles of all kinds are always welcome at any party. A cheese or charcuterie board is always an excellent option when hosting a large group. Add various cheeses (hard, soft, strong, and mild), meats, crackers, nuts, olives, grapes, and summer garnishes.

TIP: Edible decors like seasonal fruit toppings laid on each plate or ceramic pumpkins paired with wheat cloches in a rustic vase is an effortless way to spread Thanksgiving cheer to even the most modern spaces!

For the mains, Turkey is always the showstopper of any Thanksgiving party. If you’re a newbie roaster, it’s best to plan ahead how long it takes to thaw, brine, stuff, and bake a turkey.

However, you can always choose the non-traditional way if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with roasting a turkey. Check out these great articles from Food and Wine and Taste of Home for alternative Thanksgiving mains!

For the sides, mashed potatoes, green bean casseroles, and sweet potato casseroles never get old. You can also opt for stuffed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, and pumpkin soup!

TIP: Always account for various dietary restrictions and purchase more food than you anticipate will be necessary. And if you’re pinched in time, curating and ordering ahead from restaurants you and your family love!

We’ve got just the thing for you! Download your free Countertops Buyer’s Guide without commitments and achieve everything you want without confusion, frustration, or stress! Plus, you’ll gain access to exclusive offers!

Planning to refresh and upgrade your home this fall? We are ready to help you choose the perfect set of counters, cabinets, and fixtures to complement your home. From the design process to installation, we’re by your side. Count on us for all of your custom kitchen and bathroom renovation needs!

P.S. Let’s talk about your home renovation project, and we’ll provide you with the resources you need to ensure your experience is simple and pleasant every step of the way.

Happy Remodeling and Happy Fall!

Southport by Cambria

Schedule a FREE consultation with our specialists here.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We could not be happier.

They did our kitchen countertops and master bathroom. They were friendly, precise, professional, caring, and exacting in their conversation, measurements, and work ethic. We will use them again for our next project.

~ Lydia P.

Share your home updates on Facebook!
We’d love to see them. Don’t forget to tag us!
@EDGraniteCity

Nov 18 2022

4 Tips To Help You Prepare for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is almost here! It’s one of the much-awaited time-honored traditions and much-needed respite to catch up and celebrate our gratitude before the busy holiday sets in.

The Thanksgiving meal is one of the most anticipated holidays. If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year (or have hosted one before), you might know there’s so much more to prepping for this day than just perfecting the menu. Besides curating a fantastic spread for your loved ones, creating a beautiful, festive setup and ambiance for guests to enjoy is also important.

So whether you’re looking for something low-key or wanting to go all out, we’re sharing four tips to help you get a headstart on your Thanksgiving preparation. Read on below!

Festive Decor

Thanksgiving reunites family members, and what better way to make the place feel nostalgic, warm, and valued is by sticking to time-honored traditions. There’s just something comfortable and reassuring in keeping it classic and focusing on the gratitude of having to spend this important day with your loved ones.

Thanksgiving wreaths like a DIY fall floral wreath with your favorite flowers to radiate a happy, bohemian vibe or a simple wheat stalk wreath for a casual country vibe that will undoubtedly make any guests feel welcome and warm.

Linen tablecloths, vintage tableware, or fall-scented candles can be a holiday table-setting staple for the years to come and will never go out of style.

A Chill Playlist

They say no party is complete without tunes, and we couldn’t agree more! You can do three things about this — prepare a playlist beforehand, use a curated playlist or listen to the radio instead. Whatever you choose, this will ensure that your guests are serenaded all night long. All you need is portable speakers, and you’re good to go!

Need help with your home renovation?
If new cabinets, appliances, plumbing, or countertops are within your budget, by all means, go for it! Check out some of our services here:
https://www.edgranitecity.com/services/

Thanksgiving Refreshments

Set up a table or fridge with an assortment of single-serve liqueurs, mixers, bitters, tonic, seltzer, ice, some beers, and maybe a few different bottles of wine (with an option for disposable or eco-friendly cups). Generally, it’s always better to overestimate how many drinks you’ll need than run out mid-celebration.

You can also add a dispenser with water infused with fresh fruit, pitchers of lemonade, or sodas and juices. An easy-to-use drink dispenser for drinks will save you time and effort since you’ll only be responsible for refills if it runs low.

Finally: The Thanksgiving Spread!

Appetizers and nibbles of all kinds are always welcome at any party. A cheese or charcuterie board is always an excellent option when hosting a large group. Add various cheeses (hard, soft, strong, and mild), meats, crackers, nuts, olives, grapes, and summer garnishes.

TIP: Edible decors like seasonal fruit toppings laid on each plate or ceramic pumpkins paired with wheat cloches in a rustic vase is an effortless way to spread Thanksgiving cheer to even the most modern spaces!

For the mains, Turkey is always the showstopper of any Thanksgiving party. If you’re a newbie roaster, it’s best to plan ahead how long it takes to thaw, brine, stuff, and bake a turkey.

However, you can always choose the non-traditional way if you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed with roasting a turkey. Check out these great articles from Food and Wine and Taste of Home for alternative Thanksgiving mains!

For the sides, mashed potatoes, green bean casseroles, and sweet potato casseroles never get old. You can also opt for stuffed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, and pumpkin soup!

TIP: Always account for various dietary restrictions and purchase more food than you anticipate will be necessary. And if you’re pinched in time, curating and ordering ahead from restaurants you and your family love!

We’ve got just the thing for you! Download your free Countertops Buyer’s Guide without commitments and achieve everything you want without confusion, frustration, or stress! Plus, you’ll gain access to exclusive offers!

Planning to refresh and upgrade your home this fall? We are ready to help you choose the perfect set of counters, cabinets, and fixtures to complement your home. From the design process to installation, we’re by your side. Count on us for all of your custom kitchen and bathroom renovation needs!

P.S. Let’s talk about your home renovation project, and we’ll provide you with the resources you need to ensure your experience is simple and pleasant every step of the way.

Happy Remodeling and Happy Fall!

Southport by Cambria

Schedule a FREE consultation with our specialists here.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

We could not be happier.

They did our kitchen countertops and master bathroom. They were friendly, precise, professional, caring, and exacting in their conversation, measurements, and work ethic. We will use them again for our next project.

~ Lydia P.

Share your home updates on Facebook!
We’d love to see them. Don’t forget to tag us!
@EDGraniteCity

Oct 01 2022

12 Bathroom Designs To Inspire Your Renovation This Fall

Bathrooms are a part of our everyday life. And more often than not, it’s one of the least spaces that we give much thought to. As the weather gets colder, we’re happy to be spending more time indoors and feeling cozy. Investing in a comfortable, inviting, and functional bathroom not only enhances the living experience but, with the correct planning and structuring, maximizes every inch of the existing space.

If you’re considering renovating your bathroom this season, there are many ways (and styles) to consider for the bathroom haven of your dreams. We’ve listed a few to get you started. Check out some of our favorite designs below.

Two-Toned Minimalist

Coastal Blue Paradise

Coziest Bathroom Ever

Seamlessly White

Rocking the Antique

Industrial Charm

Calming Earthy Hues

Sweet Asymmetrical

Open and Airy

Neutral with a Pop of Color

Going for the Gold

Vintage Dream

Planning to refresh and upgrade your home this fall? We are ready to help you choose the perfect set of counters, cabinets, and fixtures to complement your home. From the design process to installation, we’re by your side. Count on us for all of your custom kitchen and bathroom renovation needs!

P.S. Let’s talk about your home renovation project, and we’ll provide you with the resources you need to ensure your experience is simple and pleasant every step of the way.

Happy Remodeling and Happy Fall!

Schedule a FREE consultation with our specialists here.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I had a great experience with E&D Granite City!

Their prices are very competitive, and the quality was excellent. From the first conversation, everything was seamless. They showed up on time and finished the same day without any surprises. I would highly recommend them to anyone.

~ Ruth M.

Share your home updates on Facebook!
We’d love to see them. Don’t forget to tag us!
@EDGraniteCity