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Thinking of redoing the kitchen? Deciding what look you want for the countertops, and more importantly what material to use, is one of the most impactful decisions you will make. Not just from a look and feel, but from a cost standpoint, too.
Here is a list of the most popular options and some important details to keep in mind.
Eco-Friendly Composite Countertops
Formed from materials such as fly ash or recycled paper, composite countertops inhibit the growth of bacteria and are also very resistant to stains. They also can hide scratches and are not impacted by heat. Most are free of VOC, and are considered food safe. Composite countertops sometimes require sealing or special maintenance.
Natural Granite Countertops
One of the most sought after materials in kitchen countertops, granite serves as a beautiful, durable heat-resistant surface for meal preparation and daily use. They come in a range of colors to work with any kind of kitchen décor. One of the most expensive options, they do have upside – they are low maintenance (a yearly resealing will help prevent stains and bacteria growth) and can last a lifetime and can increase the value of a home.
Durable Engineered Stone Countertops
An great alternative to natural stone, engineered stone countertops are composed of 93 percent quartz particles. They combine the elegant look of stone with increased durability. Quartz countertops are scratch-, stain- and heat-resistant and require very little maintenance.
Classic Butcher Block Countertops
Butcher block countertops offer warm, timeless appeal and an ideal surface for cutting and chopping. Scratches and burns on butcher block countertops are easy to repair — just sand them out and apply mineral oil.
Upscale Laminate Countertops
Today's laminate countertops mimic the look of pricey stone and solid surface countertops for a fraction of the cost. While they are very low maintenance and affordable, they are not heat-resistant and are susceptible to chips and scratches.
Customizable Concrete Countertops
One of the hottest trends in countertops, concrete can be custom cast to create one-of-a-kind designs. It can be ground, polished or stained, and embedded with embellishments from seashells to stones. One big disadvantage is that they regular sealing.
Low-Maintenance Solid Surface Countertops
Nonporous solid surface countertops are easy to maintain and fairly durable, since there is no sealing required. The newest designs mimicking materials such as granite, quartz, concrete and glass. Sharp knives and hot pans can sometimes damage solid surface countertops.
Elegant Marble Countertops
Marble countertops add unmatched beauty to a kitchen. Although marble does stain and scratch more easily than granite, its smooth, cool surface is ideal for baking and rolling out dough. But be careful falling in love the beauty of marble since it is one of the most expensive options in kitchen countertops.
Sleek Stainless Steel Countertops
A stylish option for modern and contemporary kitchens, stainless steel countertops provide a durable and easy-to-clean work surface. Though they're resistant to heat and stains, stainless steel countertops can scratch easily.
Want to learn more about your options? Give me a call or drop me a line. I would be happy to discuss your options with you.