Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen Countertops

Once you have a plan for kitchen remodel; there are lots of choices to make. You need to choose your cabinetry, appliances, paint colors, lighting fixtures, kitchen countertops and backsplashes. In years past people has Formica countertops or tile countertops. The choices today are endless.

If money is not an object, granite countertops are beautiful and durable. Granite countertops come in a range of almost 3000 colors. They hold up well to heat and once sealed, are very nearly maintenance free. They will last forever and add significant value to your home. The biggest drawback is the price and they can crack if not properly installed.

Engineered stone is composed of 93% quartz particles. It is scratch resistant and comes in a rainbow of colors. The surface is non-porous so it does not require yearly sealing as does natural stone.

Solid surface countertops are solid. Any scratches can be easily sanded out. You may know them as Corian, Avonite, or Swanstone. They come in lots of color and patterns. Unfortunately they can be damaged or stained by hot pots and pans. These are custom made to your specifications and can be moderately expensive.

Ceramic tile is durable, easy to clean, and inexpensive. Because it is installed in sections, some homeowners are able to do it themselves. It resists heat damage, but tile is easily chipped or cracked and cleaning the grout is not always easy. The grout is a bit more porous and will stain. Ceramic tile that is custom designed can be significantly more expensive.

Laminate countertops like Formica or Wilsonart come in lots of colors. They are plastic coated synthetics that are smooth and easy to clean. The draw backs are that the seams show, chips and cracks are almost impossible to repair, and end finishing and front edge choices can be expensive.

Wood or butcher black counter have a warm look. They need to be sanded and sealed and can stain over time. There are many choices in finishes and they are easy to clean. Any scratches need to be oiled and sealed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Stainless steel kitchen counters give a modern look to the kitchen. They are heat resistant and durable and because they are custom made, you can have a seamless finish. They can be dented, you cannot cut on it, and fabrication is very expensive.

Soapstone is usually dark gray and has a very smooth feel. It is often used in historic homes, but can look very nice in a contemporary kitchen. It does require regular maintenance with applications of mineral oil and the color may darken over time.

Are you confused yet? Think about the style of kitchen you want and choose kitchen countertops to compliment your overall design. It is a significant investment that will pay off in the long run.

 

 

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