One of the most essential elements of kitchen design is selecting the appropriate countertop. It’s an investment, and you’ll want to make sure it lasts for many years, and the appropriate countertop for your house will depend on both your sense of design and your lifestyle. Consider the following questions from a practical standpoint. Do you spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing meals for your family? Is weekly meal preparation a part of your routine? How about some baking? Would a little bit of damage to your countertop worry you, or would you even notice a tiny crack? Every countertop has advantages and disadvantages in terms of hardness and durability, as well as heat and stain resistance.
When it comes to design, do you prefer genuine stone, or might a synthetic, composite material work just as well? Then examine the overall style of the space to ensure that the countertop you choose will blend in with the cabinets, flooring, and other design elements.
Here are some of the types of countertops to consider, whether you have a classic, modern farmhouse, or contemporary design kitchen. Read on to find out more.
Marble
Marble countertops have gained popularity in recent years. This natural stone immediately enhances a kitchen, giving it a clean, modern look. There’s nothing quite like a brilliant white marble finish, but marble countertops come in a variety of hues, including gray, brown, taupe, and even green. There are no two marble countertops that are exactly the same. This kind of countertop is also less expensive than you would think, especially when you seek advice from Legacy Countertops. While marble seems expensive and elegant, certain types of marble can be inexpensive.
However, this stone is not the most practical option. Marble is softer than other natural stones, so use caution and invest in appropriate cutting boards because marble will scrape if you cut straight on it. Another problem with marble is that it is porous, so spills can quickly turn into permanent stains if you’re not quick to clean up.
Quartz
Do you have a big family, prepare a lot of meals, or just want to be sure you invest in a long-lasting countertop? Then quartz may be the best option for you. You might be shocked to discover that quartz countertops are not manufactured entirely of quartz but rather of a composite stone created from real quartz and a resin binder. This stone is likewise nonporous, very hard, and does not need to be resealed.
Quartz countertops, since they are man-made, are an excellent way to get the appearance of natural stones such as marble or granite without having to worry about durability.
Granite
Granite countertops have been the industry standard for many years since it is a natural stone that is very durable. Granite comes in a variety of dark and light hues, as well as specks and variances. Another distinguishing characteristic of granite is its ability to be cut with a number of edge options, including square, beveled, ogee (an S-shape), and half and full bullnose.
Granite countertops need minimal upkeep and are simple to maintain, although it is recommended to avoid using strong cleaning solutions. A little soap and water are all that are needed to clean granite. Some granites are more porous than others and may need sealing on a regular basis to avoid stains.
Because granite is heat-resistant, you can put pots straight from the oven on the granite counter without the need for a trivet. However, cutting straight on granite is not recommended since the stone is so hard that it can dull your blades.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has long been a popular option in industrial kitchens, but it is increasingly becoming popular in home settings as well. This kind of countertop can instantly transform your kitchen into a trendy, industrial space.
It’s simple to maintain stainless steel if it is properly cleaned. However, the longer you leave a splash or spill, the more difficult it is to clean. Stainless steel counters can be cleaned with soap and water or a solution designed especially for this surface. Another disadvantage of stainless steel is that it is prone to denting and scratching. However, it is very durable and completely nonporous.
Laminate
During the 1980s and 1990s, laminate countertops, often known as Formica, were very popular. While previous laminate countertops may seem antiquated, today’s laminate worktops are very different. Newer laminates can easily mimic the appearance of more costly materials such as wood and stone for a fraction of the cost. However, price isn’t the only benefit of laminate. This item is nonporous and will not absorb germs. It also never has to be resealed and is simple to clean with soap and water.
If you do select laminate, there are a few things to consider. Because it is easily damaged by heat, failing to use a trivet may harm your whole countertop. In addition, unlike other synthetic materials or stones, laminate will not increase the market value of your house. While it isn’t perfect for major kitchen renovations, it is a fantastic way to keep costs down for smaller projects like modest rental property kitchens, basement bathrooms, guesthouses, and so on.
