How to choose a kitchen countertop material
When choosing a kitchen, the material of the countertop will make a big difference in the final effect. Everyone has their own budget in mind, and it’s perhaps best to think about the absolute maximum budget for your kitchen before you start exploring some of the more expensive offerings on the market. A new kitchen, regardless of the countertop material, will add value and convenience to your home if it is installed correctly and accurately complements your home décor. There are actually quite a few different types of countertop materials on offer, and it’s worth knowing their pros and cons before heading to a showroom.
Many inexpensive kitchens come with laminate countertops. It’s cheap, waterproof, and easy to clean with just a sponge and simple cleaning material. Laminate countertops also offer a wide range of colors and are found in many manufactured homes. The downside to laminate is that it’s not as durable as some of the more expensive materials: it tends to crack or the backing may peel off after a few years of heavy use.
Tile countertops are another popular option and come in a wide range of colors and patterns. There are different types of materials, but the best tile countertops will be treated to withstand very high temperatures, or risk cracking. Tiles can be dulled by abrasive cleaning, and since each tile is held in place with grout, there is a risk of bacteria lingering in these cracks. A heavy object can also break a tile counter.
Moving up the scale in terms of cost, you could go for a quartz kitchen countertop, which can be made very thin. Marble is also a popular choice and adds another level of sophistication to the kitchen.
Stainless steel has made its way from industrial settings to the home. Stainless steel is easy to clean, resistant to chipping, and nonporous, but it is relatively expensive. A stainless steel countertop makes a strong statement in a kitchen and must be chosen carefully.
Currently, the ceiling is dominated by expensive, but beautiful granite countertops. Granite is a rock that complements a kitchen setting very well, and is also very strong and durable. A granite countertop is very difficult to scratch or mark and is virtually impervious to heat. Granite will be the king of the kitchen for some time.