If you are considering changing your counters in the kitchen, the most challenging aspect is choosing the best material. Because countertops made of the selected material will impact the rest of your kitchen’s palette, it’s essential to pick the right one. We’ve listed five countertop materials commonly utilized in kitchens to make the right choice.
Granite
Perhaps the most well-known countertop material nowadays, granite gives a lot of personality to an otherwise dull space. It comes in various colors, features distinct grains, and is compatible with different types of finishes. With the proper sealing, granite will last for many years.
Engineered Quartz
If you’d like to select from a range of colors, this could be the countertop material you should consider. It’s an excellent countertop material for green homes because it contains recycled quartz, resin, and other pigments. Since it is an engineered material, it’s extremely tough and non-porous.
Tile
Tile countertops are available in various styles, and the most commonly used options are stone and ceramic tiles. Both are incredibly sturdy and easy to put in. However, keeping tiled countertops isn’t easy because of the grout. The majority of homeowners choose lighter grout to make cleaning more simple.
Plastic Laminate
If you choose this material for your countertop, you’ll save more money than most of the alternatives on this list. The laminate countertop made of plastic is far from the most robust countertop material, so consider it a different choice for heavy-duty kitchens.
Marble
Marble counters are the most excellent option for house owners who want to make a statement and create a classic aesthetic. White kitchens are stunning when adorned with granite countertops. Marble is attractive; it’s softer than granite and easily susceptible to scratches and stains.
Essential Considerations for Choosing Countertop Materials
There are many options available to you. Every material has distinct properties in natural stone and other substances in addition to other engineered materials such as quartz, glass, and steel. Your kitchen countertops often get used, so select high-quality and durable materials. Here are some things to consider.
Your Lifestyle
How frequently do you use your kitchen? Do you often prepare meals? Do you have enough time daily to clean your worktops and other surfaces? Your analysis of your kitchen’s daily activity and choice of countertop material will get aided by the answers to these questions. Make sure you explore all of your needs before deciding on decide on your countertop material.
Manual Maintenance
The kitchen countertop is the essential part of your home’s energy source. Thus, selecting a countertop made from a material impervious to stains is crucial. The majority of homeowners opt for marble or granite countertops. However, it’s ideal to have the countertop sealed, so it is resistant to stains and the growth of bacteria. That means you can keep it spotless. It is also possible to choose quartz or stainless steel for a non-porous countertop that is easier to maintain and clean.
Aesthetic Value
The design and style of your chosen countertop are just as crucial as their practicality. The look of the countertop should match the rest of the kitchen and add to its appeal. Certain materials such as wood and natural stone give an organic feel to your kitchen and the home.
However, marble is a fantastic option since it comes in various shades and can be associated with stunning beauty. Concrete, stainless steel, and plastic laminates, as well as other materials, can add a contemporary style and trendy look to your kitchen.
Durability
Every homeowner wants a beautiful countertop that will last. You must select materials resistant to heat, burns, scratching, dents, and chipping. This kind of countertop is ideal for heavy-duty kitchens. In general, manufactured stone countertops last years and are typically suggested for kitchens with high traffic. Granite and marble stand perfect against scratches and heat but require periodic sealing.
Health
People aren’t aware that the choice of countertop material and the maintenance requirements required for it affect the cleanliness of your kitchen. A lack of hygiene in the kitchen can increase fungal growth and bacteria growth. You should stay clear of countertops with grooves because the surface may trap dirt and cause an increase in bacteria, especially if not properly cleaned.
Cost
It is essential to consider the cost when selecting the countertop material. Stones like granite and natural alternatives are typically costly. However, they’re an excellent investment option in the long run. You must ensure that the material you choose fits your budget and offers the most return on your investment.
Wrap Up
Since you prepare and serve meals every day and on special occasions, your kitchen serves as the social hub of your house. Therefore, make sure you select high-quality countertops which are attractive and long-lasting.
The kitchen is among the rooms in the house where we spend most of our time. Therefore, it’s no surprise that this is an area that homeowners typically spend a lot of money on, which is why there’s it is best to make intelligent choices. Ottawa Home Pros is the ideal choice to enhance your kitchen! Call us at (613) 288-9145 or email at info@ottawahomepros.com for your countertop project.
