The countertop is the centerpiece and central workplace in the kitchen. Therefore, choosing the perfect material for your countertop can feel pretty exhausting. You do not want to be embarrassed when visitors see your kitchen, yet you want a workspace where you can knead and chop comfortably. The materials and patterns to choose from can seem endless too. Whether you are remodeling your kitchen or building a new one, this is a guide to help you select the best kitchen countertop that is suitable for your needs.
There are a variety of materials for constructing countertops, ranging from natural materials such as marble, stone, and granite to engineered materials such as quartz, porcelain, and laminate. While granite is the most widely used material because of its natural composition uniqueness, other materials like quartz, laminate, and solid surface, can be designed to mimic the appearance of other stones. So, you may not want to make your choice solely on the best appearances that appeal to you most. In choosing a countertop, these are some of the crucial points you should consider:
The Overall Design of your Home
You certainly do not want an urban sitting room paired with a Renaissance kitchen. The general feel of your home should influence what type of material you will be looking for. While wood and marble are best for a traditional look, recycled glass and concrete work better for a contemporary look.
Usage
It is essential to consider the amount of work you will do on the countertop before choosing one. Materials have different textures and durability that may not suit specific types of work. For example, marble cannot withstand as much pounding as granite and quartz, so it may not be a good option if you love baking. A house full of kids may require a stain-resistant, easily cleaned surface like quartz.
Durability and Maintenance
Quartz is the most durable kitchen countertop. While laminate hardly needs maintenance, wood may require regular sanding to smooth out cuts and scrapes. In contrast, granite and marble require periodic sealing because of their susceptibility to chips and scraps. Some materials are also more heat and water-resistant than others.
Eco-friendliness
There are several options if you’re looking to create an eco-friendly kitchen. Concrete, recyclable glass, reclaimed wood, and stainless steel should be on your list, if that’s your goal.
Cost
Materials can be comparable in price, but the installation cost, depending on the design you are going for, may put more weight on your budget. The price may also vary depending on whether you chose a local material, or if it is imported from another place. You may also want to ask about a product’s warranty when buying.
Professional Help
You definitely shouldn’t install your countertop on your own. But before deciding on an option, getting expert advice on the material and how easy it will be to install and maintain may go a long way.
Getting a perfect kitchen countertop should be an enjoyable process for you. Ultimately, it is best to be guided by your budget and the value you are looking for.