When preparing for a kitchen renovation, one of the most significant decisions you will make is selecting your countertop material. This one feature will set the tone for the entire renovation and make or break your new kitchen’s final appearance and function. Most homeowners have some clear ideas of what they like visually. But without having a bit of knowledge about the materials used for counter surfaces, you could make your selection based solely on appearance and be very disappointed with the functionality and care required to keep your new countertops looking great. So it is essential to know the pros and cons of the tops materials being used in today’s best kitchen renovations.
The Top Three Choices
Each of the top three choices for luxury countertops is a type of natural stone. The first choice is granite with its durability and tolerance for heat. It is also available in nearly 3,000 colors and patterns that can be sealed to become almost maintenance-free. Soapstone has recently taken over as the second most popular natural stone. It offers a deeper, richer color, and the surface can be sanded to correct slight damage or imperfections. The third choice is marble with its attractive veining and ability to endure heat and water. All of these natural stone materials are at the top of the price range, however, and are not suitable for a DIY installation. Other drawbacks include their ability to be scratched, cracked, or stained.
Engineered Surfaces
The following two surfaces, quartz and solid material like Corian, are manufactured. Quartz is about 93% stone with a resin binder, making it easier to install and fabricate to custom shapes. But the cost and weight of the countertops can be a drawback. Solid surface materials can be sanded and refinished to remove slight damage making them more user-friendly, but they are not impervious to heat.
Five Totally Different Directions
The last five choices are all very unique. Ceramic tile comes in at number six for its affordability and variety. However, it can be brittle, and the grout lines are often challenging to keep clean. Laminates are next, with thousands of affordable color choices that are simple to maintain. However, this is considered a very common surface that adds little value to the home. Butcher Block Hardwood counters are easy to clean and add a touch of country charm. But the surface can be marred and must be regularly sealed to avoid issues with contamination and bacteria.
The last two surfaces add a more industrial look, with stainless steel coming in just ahead of concrete. Stainless offers a modern look that is easy to clean but can be scratched and is costly to fabricate and install. Concrete is heat and scratch-resistant but can crack over time. The installation is always custom, making this porous surface more expensive to install and maintain with a durable sealant.
To explore these options in-depth, call 951-225-1570 to meet with a Renovation Pros team member to discuss your Riverside or San Bernardino kitchen renovation.
