Choosing the best countertop for your kitchen remodel is an important choice. Countertops are a bit of a status symbol that your kitchen and house wear. Expensive, rare and beautiful countertops can increase the value of your home and tend to be topics of conversation amongst visitors. There are many different types of stone and materials that can be chosen for counters, some natural and some synthetic. We’ve highlighted a few of the popular materials used for kitchen counters and the factors necessary to consider during your remodel.
Natural Materials Used for Kitchen Counters
Countertops that are made from natural materials such as stone and wood are an investment that can last a lifetime, and make for a beautiful kitchen that adds value to your home.
Quartz
Quartz is a premier, high-end choice for kitchen countertops. It’s hardy, long lasting, and easy to maintain. Quartz is also naturally anti-microbial, meaning its non-porous nature makes it difficult for bacteria and mold to grow. It is heat-resistant and difficult to damage, making it an ideal and stylish option for a kitchen space.
Granite
Natural stone such as granite makes for heavy and durable countertops. Since granite is stone, no two pieces are alike. Granite is a more expensive option when choosing it for your kitchen remodel, however it also can increase the value of your home. Granite tile is also an option for your countertops. It is a more affordable option if you’re wanting to go with granite, but save money.
Marble
Marble is another beautiful natural stone that is a fan favorite during kitchen remodels. Marble is a softer stone which makes it more porous and susceptible to stains and scratches from knives and other sharp utensils. This is why it is very important to seal the stone occasionally. Marble comes in solid slabs, tiles and modular pieces, giving you several options when choosing it for your kitchen counters.
Wood
Butcher Blocks of Wood are also a popular countertop option. Wood species to choose from include acacia, bamboo, birch, maple, eucalyptus and cherry. Wood is an eco-friendly counter option that is unique and can be stained and finished to your liking. It is very important to properly care for and seal the wood so that it doesn’t harbor germs and bacteria or rot. Be sure to keep this in mind when making your selection.
Synthetic Materials Used for Kitchen Counters
Synthetic materials that are used for kitchen counters are another option over natural stones. Unlike stones and woods, synthetics are not porous, therefore don’t harbor bacteria or mold. It’s much simpler to buff out scratches and imperfections.
Laminate
Laminate countertops are formed with a thin layer of plastic laminate bonded to particle board. Laminate comes in a wide variety of colors, patterns and textures, so the possibilities are endless. While laminate is an inexpensive material when choosing your kitchen countertop during a remodel, it also may not be long-lasting. It has the potential to easily peel, chip, and burn. Home buyers tend to label laminate counters (and even floors) as inferior and less preferable to natural stone, but may be better if you have a smaller budget.
Solid Surface
Solid surface is a synthetic material commonly used for counters. It is made from acrylic, resins and pigments, to mimic the look of natural stone such as marble, stone and granite. The mixture is heated, melted and molded to shape. It does tend to get scratched, cracked or scorched more easily than heavier materials, but is easy to clean. Solid surface counters are much more versatile and can be customized to your preferences.
Concrete
Concrete counters tend to be less common due to the price point and installation required. Concrete makes for beautiful and unique counters; you can choose colors for it and what kind of texture you’d like it to have. Most of the time, concrete has to be poured and molded on-site by specialists who work with concrete. Because of this, concrete can be shaped to fit any size. It’s a very heavy and durable option, too.
There are many more natural and synthetic options to choose from for countertops. It is important to understand what factors to consider before making a purchase including price, durability, maintenance, customizability, installation and value. This will help you select kitchen counters that best fit your style and budget to create the kitchen of your dreams.
Let Top Tier help with your new countertop!
When you turn to Top Tier, we will work closely with you to make sure the vision you have for your kitchen becomes reality. We have a time-tested process in place to ensure that your project runs smoothly, and it includes an in-home consultation, pre-installation inspection and installation. Contact the trusted and reputable professionals at Top Tier Kitchens & Baths today.
