Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertop’s
- Posted on May 26, 2014
One of the most important material choices you will make when planning and building your new home is kitchen countertops. The right countertop will be functional, durable, and compliment your flooring and cabinet choices.
Here are a few commonly used kitchen countertop materials you may want to consider.
1. Stone Countertops
Stone is a beautiful, durable choice for kitchen countertops. Slabs of natural stone come in many colors, each with its own distinct patterning.
Some of the most common natural stone options are:
- Granite: Granite is unaffected by heat, and resistant to chipping, cracking, and scratching. Granite can be either polished, which produces a shine (as pictured above), or honed, producing a matte finish. Granite should be resealed annually, and all spills should be wiped up immediately to avoid discoloration.
- Concrete: Concrete countertops are a modern, durable option. Available in any color or thickness, concrete pairs well with other countertop materials for a diverse look. Concrete is one of the most energy efficient countertop materials as it captures excess heat and releases it when the temperature cools.
- Marble: The natural patterning in marble countertops helps hide wear over time. Though marble is durable, it is vulnerable to staining or etching, so annual sealing and care when handling acids is recommended.
- Quartz: Engineered quartz countertops can withstand almost any damage normal kitchen wear can inflict. These stone countertops are resistant to heat damage, scratches, acid wear, stain, and impact damage. Because quartz is non-porous, it does not need to be sealed, unlike many other natural stone options.
2. Laminate
Laminate countertops are offered in patterns that imitate stone, wood, or tile, often at a fraction of the cost. Laminate offers a budget-friendly, retro look. Because it is available in nearly any color or pattern imaginable, it is a great option if you are planning to decorate your kitchen in unique, bright, or saturated colors.
Laminate is more vulnerable to scratching than other materials, so you will want to use a cutting board and be cautious with sharp objects. However, laminate countertops are resistant to heat and stains.
3. Tile
Tile countertops offer versatility you won’t find with other material options. You may want to mix colors or types of tile. Tile offers the option of personalized or asymmetrical patterns, tailored to your kitchen décor.
Tile countertops are an easy-to-maintain option that comes in a variety of materials, such as
- Ceramics
- Glass
- Porcelain
- Stone
- Vinyl
4. Wood
Wood countertops add a warm, homey atmosphere to your kitchen. Often, wood countertops are mixed with other materials to provide several kinds of cutting surfaces and a varied look.
When properly installed and sealed, this material provides a sanitary cutting surface, even for meat. Wood countertops are heat-resistant and durable over time.
5. Stainless Steel or Glass
Stainless steel and glass countertops offer a modern take on your kitchen. These durable, non-porous surfaces instantly streamline your home and coordinate with any color palette.
Glass and stainless steel are two of the most hygienic and low-maintenance countertop options. These materials are easy to clean and maintain, and do not allow bacteria buildup. They do not chip, scratch, or crack easily, and are completely heat-resistant.
It is always a good idea to consult with your contractor before choosing the materials for your kitchen countertops. Consider not only the color and pattern of a material, but also its required upkeep and durability. Combining the perfect countertop with the rest of your décor will make your kitchen a beautiful, stylish asset of your new home.