Quartz countertops are made of natural stone by-products that are sprayed and mixed with resins to form slabs. It's easy to see why polished granite is the most popular countertop option among homeowners, as it is incredibly durable and long-lasting. Thanks to technological advances in the manufacturing process and the increase in the supply of natural stone, prices may be cheaper than you think. A misconception about quartz is that it is a completely natural stone, but in reality, this “artificial stone” is made of crushed quartz and a resin filler.
Quartz countertops are often considered alternatives to granite (which is available in fewer colors) or marble (which is less durable). Do laminate kitchen countertops deserve another look? Although this option peaked in popularity before the beginning of the last century, these countertops still offer great benefits, which are also known by brands such as Formica. The first and most compelling reason to consider laminate countertops is the almost unbeatable price. Other benefits include easy maintenance, a variety of styling options, and resistance to bacteria.
Although non-porous material won't be stained by wine or oil spills, it can definitely chip or burn. And of course, laminate will be out of place in a high-end kitchen. However, it's a good option for buyers who care about their budget, rental properties, home changers, or second kitchens. There may be no more luxurious kitchen countertop material than marble, a natural stone that complements many high-end kitchens.
Available in shades including white, gray and even green, marble countertops have long been appreciated by bakers because of the low natural temperature of the surface. On the other hand, it's probably not surprising to learn that marble is going to take up a large part of your budget. Beyond the cost, marble has other notable disadvantages, starting with the fact that it's frustratingly easy to stain and scratch. Homeowners who are dedicated to the idea of marble may find it better to use it for part of the countertop and, at the same time, use a more durable material in places of high use.
A unique option for kitchens that range from farmhouse style to more industrial-inspired ones, poured concrete countertops have gained popularity in recent years. Concrete makes it easy to dye and create decorative textures. Skilled professional installers can even incorporate pieces of tile or glass to create a truly one-of-a-kind countertop. Although this can contribute to rapid signs of wear and tear, the butcher block can be easily sanded.
Reduce the rate of wear by sealing the wood, using hot pads and cleaning up spills as soon as possible. Butcher Block is also ideal for DIYers, especially since large home improvement stores now often have butcher block counters ready to use, making it an economical option. If you value color and unique design, tile presents the most options. From elaborate hand-painted tiles to mass-produced porcelain tiles, your imagination is the limit with tiled kitchen countertops.
Quartz or granite tiles are available at a lower cost than full-size slabs. Just keep in mind that the range of style and quality is linked to a range in the total cost of tile countertops. With some basic knowledge, it's possible to install it yourself. Tiled countertops have easy maintenance and decent durability; however, the biggest danger is that it will crack so be careful not to knock over heavy pots or pans.
The grout lines can also be annoying to clean; however opting for a darker grout color can alleviate this pain. This lesser-known natural stone is comparable to marble in style and superior in durability: soapstone. Available in gray or black tones with beautiful veins, soapstone offers an impressive contrast with bright cabinets; however, the soft soap-like feel of soapstone also makes it prone to scratching. But unlike granite which looks better without stains scratches on soapstone can contribute to patina.
While it can be cleaned with soap and water soapstone countertops should be oiled regularly (about once every few months). Large natural stone slabs also justify a higher cost; each surface is unique and when it comes to stones such as granite or quartz the appearance may vary even between different cuts of the slab. However the features that make each countertop unique go beyond superficial; trying each countertop can also introduce a new look after all while it may be surprising each material feels totally different. Different countertop materials will provide other aesthetic options; synthetic options such as laminate and solid surfaces and natural options such as wood and granite can vary significantly in appearance. Taking the time to research each option down to smallest detail and considering how it will look with your cabinets walls and even your splash guard will help ensure that you love end result of your kitchen. Most mid-range and high-end kitchens use granite or quartz; granite is one of most popular options for kitchen countertops with special preference for high-end kitchens. Granite is a natural stone appreciated for its unique color tones and veins; with its natural beauty its great addition to any kitchen.
Granite is also one of most durable materials for countertops; as result whether you cook frequently have young children or like hosting you'll find that its capable of withstanding most daily wear and tear while maintaining luxurious finish. A trendy choice right now is butcher block countertop style; especially when mixed with granite or quartz countertops butcher block offers rich variety of natural colors to your kitchen; significantly thicker style this material well suited chef inspired look. Most time you'll find that butcher block countertops act as an accent since they make up small area usually near sink or on island; however its important remember that wood can be easily scratched just think about.
