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Granite backsplash with matching countertop in a bright kitchen. These stones are ideal for busy kitchens and homes that enjoy entertaining.
Kitchen Backsplash

Kitchen Backsplash Ideas That Add Style and Protection

Kitchen Backsplash Ideas That Add Style and Protection Home / Blog Kitchen Backsplash Ideas That Add Style and Protection Looking for backsplash ideas that look great and keep your kitchen clean? A well-designed backsplash does both. It protects your walls from splashes and spills while adding a stylish touch to your space. Whether you want something simple, bold, or easy to clean, here are ideas to help you choose the perfect one. Why Your Kitchen Backsplash Matters A custom backsplash isn’t just for looks. It protects your walls from grease, food stains, and water damage. It also brings together the style of your cabinets and countertops. The right backsplash can even add value to your home. At Universal Granite LLC, we install beautiful backsplashes in kitchens across Dickson, TN. Our team helps you find a design that fits your taste, needs, and budget. 1. Classic Subway Tile Subway tiles are a popular and timeless choice. They’re simple, clean, and easy to match with almost any countertop. White is the most common color, but you can choose from a variety of styles and shades. Tip: Try laying them vertically for a modern twist. 2. Natural Stone for a Luxury Look Granite and marble backsplashes add a rich, high-end look to your kitchen. These natural stones are strong, easy to clean, and very stylish. You can use the same material as your countertop or pick something different for contrast. 3. Add Color or Patterns Want something more fun or bold? Try colorful tiles or ones with patterns. Styles like Moroccan tile, herringbone layouts, or painted ceramic can make your backsplash the star of the room. It is an excellent option for individuals who want their kitchen to reflect their personality. 4. Full-Slab Backsplashes Full-slab backsplashes utilize a single, large piece of stone, such as quartz or marble. They appear smooth and clean, with no visible grout lines. This style is perfect for modern kitchens with a sleek design. 5. Glass or Mirror Backsplashes Glass and mirror backsplashes are bright and shiny. They reflect light, which helps small kitchens feel bigger. They’re also smooth and easy to clean. You can choose from clear glass, colored glass, or mirrored designs. Choosing the Right Backsplash Here are a few tips to help you pick the right backsplash: Your lifestyle: If you cook frequently, opt for something easy to clean. Your countertop: Choose a color or material that complements it well. Your style: Match your backsplash to the overall look of your kitchen. If you’re unsure where to start, our team at Universal Granite LLC is here to assist you. We’ll walk you through your options and help you find something that fits your space. Final Thoughts The right kitchen backsplash can make a big difference. It protects your walls and adds a finishing touch to your kitchen. From simple subway tiles to bold stones or colorful patterns, there’s a design for every style. Ready to upgrade your kitchen with a stylish and durable backsplash? Contact Universal Granite LLC today to schedule your complimentary estimate and receive expert guidance on selecting the ideal design. Explore our blog for more home ideas and check out our services to see how we help homeowners in Dickson, TN, create kitchens they love.

Elegant marble countertop installed in a bright, modern kitchen with white cabinets.
Marble Countertop

Is a Marble Countertop Right for Your Home? Pros and Cons

Is a Marble Countertop Right for Your Home? Pros and Cons Home / Blog Marble countertops are popular for their classic beauty and luxury feel. If you’re planning a kitchen or bathroom remodel, a marble countertop installation might be one of the upgrades you’re considering. But is it the best option for your home? In this blog, you’ll learn about the pros and cons of marble countertops so you can decide if this natural stone fits your lifestyle and design goals. The Elegance and Beauty of Marble Countertops Homeowners have used marble for centuries, appreciating its smooth finish, cool surface, and beautiful natural patterns. These features give it a timeless, high-end appearance. Why Homeowners Choose Marble Elegant Style: Marble gives kitchens and bathrooms a sleek, polished look. Unique Patterns: Every marble slab has its veins and colors, so your countertop will be one of a kind. Naturally Cool Surface: The stone remains cool, making it ideal for baking and food preparation. Boosts Home Value: Marble is a premium material that can raise your home’s resale value. Things to Consider Before Choosing Marble While marble is beautiful, it may not be the best choice for every home. It needs more care and attention than other countertop materials. Challenges of Marble Countertops Stains Easily: Marble is porous, allowing it to absorb liquids like wine or juice if not sealed properly. Etching with Acids: Foods like lemons or vinegar can leave dull marks on the surface if not cleaned quickly. Scratches Easily: Because marble is soft, it can scratch or chip from knives or heavy pans. High Maintenance: You need to seal marble regularly and clean it with the right products to maintain its appearance. Is Marble Good for Kitchen Countertops? Marble can look amazing in a kitchen, but it’s not always the best choice for busy households. If you cook often or have young kids, the risk of stains and scratches is higher. Some people install marble only on a kitchen island or baking station, where it’s less likely to get damaged. Another option is marble-look quartz, which offers the same style but is stronger and easier to maintain. Is Marble a Smart Choice for Bathrooms? Marble is an excellent option for bathrooms, especially in guest baths or powder rooms that receive limited use. These spaces have fewer spills and less wear, which helps keep the marble in good shape. Marble also complements other upscale materials, such as tile, mirrors, and modern lighting. How to Take Care of Marble Countertops If you opt for marble, you’ll need to take proper care of it to ensure it remains beautiful over time. Simple Maintenance Tips Always use cutting boards and heat pads to protect the surface. Wipe up spills immediately to prevent stains from forming. Use stone-safe cleaners only. Avoid vinegar, bleach, or acidic products. Reseal the countertop every 6 to 12 months, depending on use. These steps will help your marble countertops stay in great shape for years.   Conclusion: Know the Pros and Cons First Marble countertops bring style and elegance to any space, but they need regular maintenance. If you love the look of marble and are ready to care for it, marble can be a bright and beautiful investment. Contact us today to book a free consultation with the team at Universal Granite LLC,  your trusted marble and granite contractor in Dickson, TN. Want more expert tips and design ideas? Check out our blog for the latest insights on countertops and natural stone care.

Granite countertop reflects light in a modern kitchen.
Granite Countertop

How to Choose the Perfect Granite Countertop for Your Kitchen

How to Choose the Perfect Granite Countertop for Your Kitchen Home / Blog How to Choose the Perfect Granite Countertop for Your Kitchen Selecting the right material for your granite countertop installation is one of the most impactful decisions you can make during a kitchen remodel. Granite adds value, beauty, and long-lasting durability—but with so many styles, colors, and finishes available, choosing the perfect one can feel like a challenge. To help you make the right decision, here’s what to consider when picking a granite countertop that enhances your kitchen’s look and function. 1. Match Granite to Your Kitchen’s Style Start by evaluating your kitchen’s color scheme and design elements. Granite has various colors, from subtle neutrals to deep, bold hues. Some slabs are uniform in pattern, while others feature sweeping veining or dramatic contrast. For kitchens with white or light cabinetry, consider a soft gray or creamy granite to keep the space bright and cohesive. Darker granite can warm kitchens with wood cabinets or make a bold statement in modern designs. When viewing granite slabs in person, always bring samples of your cabinets and flooring. This ensures a perfect visual match before you make your final choice. 2. Understand Granite Grades and Quality Suppliers categorize granite by grade—typically Level 1 (basic), Level 2 (mid-grade), and Level 3+ (premium). The grade influences the stone’s price, appearance, and rarity. Common Granite Grades Level 1: More affordable, often simpler in pattern Level 2: Mid-range with more colors and movement Level 3+: High-end, rare stones with unique veining For busy kitchens, thicker and higher-grade granite provides better durability and long-term performance. 3. Pick the Right Finish for Your Lifestyle Granite countertops come in three primary finishes: Polished: High-gloss and reflective; enhances color and resists stains Honed: Matte finish with a soft appearance; may require more upkeep Leathered: Textured and low-sheen; hides fingerprints and smudges Each finish offers a different feel and maintenance level. Consider how you use your kitchen and choose a finish that fits your daily routine. 4. Choose an Edge Profile That Complements Your Look Edge styles can subtly enhance or dramatically change your kitchen’s aesthetic. Popular granite edge options include: Eased: Clean, straight edge for a minimalist look Beveled: Angled edge for subtle detailing Bullnose: Fully rounded for a softer, traditional style Ogee: Decorative and elegant—perfect for classic kitchens Select an edge that balances well with your cabinet design and overall theme. 5. Factor in Lighting and Space Lighting affects how granite looks in your kitchen. Natural and artificial light can reveal the stone’s flecks, depth, and color tones. A granite slab that looks subtle in low light may sparkle dramatically in full sunlight. Lighter granite can open up the space visually in small or dimly lit kitchens. For large kitchens with ample light, you have more flexibility to experiment with darker tones and bolder patterns. Final Thoughts Choosing the perfect granite countertop involves more than color preference. It’s about finding a combination of style, practicality, and longevity that fits your kitchen and lifestyle. From selecting the right grade and finish to understanding how light and space interact with your countertop choice, each detail plays a role in achieving a beautiful, functional result. At Universal Granite LLC in Dickson, TN, we help homeowners make confident choices by offering expert guidance, premium materials, and top-tier craftsmanship every step of the way. Want more advice before making your final decision? Read our blogs for expert tips on countertop care, kitchen upgrades, and design inspiration. Ready to start your kitchen transformation? Contact Universal Granite LLC today to explore your options and bring your vision to life.

Skilled contractor preparing marble slab for residential installation.
Marble Contractor

Top Benefits of Hiring a Marble Contractor for Your Next Project

Top Benefits of Hiring a Marble Contractor for Your Next Project Home / Blog Top Benefits of Hiring a Marble Contractor for Your Next Project Marble is one of the most elegant and timeless materials in your home. From kitchen countertops to bathroom vanities and fireplace surrounds, marble adds a luxurious finish that instantly elevates any space. However, achieving that flawless, polished look requires more than just high-quality material—it demands the expertise of a professional. That’s where a marble contractor comes in. If you’re considering a home upgrade or renovation involving marble, here are the top benefits of hiring an experienced marble contractor. 1. Expert Knowledge and Experience Marble is a natural stone that requires special handling, cutting, and installation techniques. A professional marble contractor has the tools, training, and hands-on experience needed to manage the entire process from start to finish. They understand the unique characteristics of marble, including its veining, porosity, and structural strength. This expertise ensures proper installation, minimizing the risk of chipping, cracking, or improper sealing. Whether it’s a custom marble countertop or a bathroom vanity, an experienced contractor will assess your space and recommend the best type of marble to match your style, budget, and functionality needs. 2. Precision in Measurement and Fabrication Unlike prefabricated surfaces, marble requires careful measurement and custom fabrication to ensure a perfect fit. A professional marble contractor uses advanced tools and precise techniques to cut and shape the stone accurately. This attention to detail is especially important for projects that require multiple pieces of marble to align seamlessly or fit within tight spaces. With expert fabrication, you avoid gaps, uneven edges, or costly material waste—ensuring your investment in marble pays off in beauty and longevity. 3. High-Quality Finish and Aesthetic Appeal A professional marble contractor brings an artistic eye to every project. Beyond technical skills, they understand how to bring out the natural beauty of each marble slab. They match veining patterns, align color tones, and apply the right polish or finish to enhance the marble’s look. This attention to visual appeal makes a dramatic difference in the final result. A DIY or inexperienced installation can make even high-end marble look underwhelming, while expert craftsmanship brings out its complete elegance. 4. Long-Term Durability and Maintenance Advice Properly installed marble surfaces last for decades. A marble contractor seals the stone effectively to resist stains, moisture, and everyday wear. They also educate you on how to care for and maintain your marble—what cleaners to use, how often to reseal, and what to avoid to keep the surface looking like new. Hiring a professional means fewer repairs, reduced maintenance issues, and greater confidence that your marble surfaces will stand the test of time. 5. Time and Cost Efficiency While hiring a contractor may seem like a more significant upfront investment, it often saves money in the long run. Professional installation reduces the risk of mistakes that can lead to expensive replacements or repairs. Plus, contractors have access to wholesale stone suppliers, often getting better pricing on materials than a typical homeowner. Most importantly, you’ll save time. Instead of managing complex measurements, cutting, and installation on your own, a marble contractor handles everything, letting you focus on enjoying the finished product. Trust the Marble Experts in Dickson, TN If you plan a kitchen upgrade, bathroom remodel, or enhancement of your outdoor living space, don’t settle for less than professional-quality results. Hiring a dedicated marble contractor, like Universal Granite LLC in Dickson, TN, ensures your project is done right from the start. With years of experience in marble countertop installation, residential upgrades, backsplashes, and outdoor kitchens, our team combines expert craftsmanship with unmatched attention to detail. We work with homeowners to deliver custom solutions that are both durable and stunning. Contact Universal Granite LLC today to schedule your free estimate and explore the possibilities of adding timeless marble beauty to your home. For more expert tips, inspiration, and project ideas, visit our blogs and discover how to make the most of your next renovation.

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