It is tempting to search and select a new countertop because of its sparkling and shiny appearance. But that is a mistake that most homeowners make when choosing kitchen countertops. Other things such as the material of the countertop, its durability, resistance to scratches and stains, maintenance, and price are also important, these are some of the most essential factors to consider when choosing kitchen countertops.
The market is teeming with options and there are dozens of surfaces available, ranging from natural stone and acrylic sheets to quartz composites and beautiful stained concrete countertops that come in dozens of colors, patterns, and textures that meet all design goals. With so many options, sometimes it becomes overwhelming to choose the right countertop for your kitchen. But don’t worry because this article will solve all your confusion.
Granite Countertops For The Kitchen
For a while, granite was the material of choice for countertops when there were no cost issues to consider. Granite countertops have been the norm for many years as it is a natural stone with great durability. Even modest kitchens look like luxurious spaces when complemented with the beauty of granite countertops.
Granite is also available in a range of light and dark colors with all kinds of stains and variations. It is also available in two finishes, a polished finish gives a shiny appearance and often darkens the appearance of the stone, while the burnished is smooth and matte. Another exceptional aspect of granite is that it can be cut with a diverse range of edge choices including square, as well as semi-pointed, and fully rounded.
Granite was also an expensive material, but its cost declined somewhat as supplies increased and engineered stone became more common. Granite kitchen countertops entail very little maintenance, but cruel cleaning products should not be used on granite. Cleaning granite only requires a little soap and water. Some granites are more absorbent than others and may necessitate periodic sealing to prevent staining.
Pros Of Granite:
- Almost impervious to heat
- Look luxurious and beautiful
- Very strong and durable
- Add value to the home
- Granite requires little or no maintenance
- Almost 2,998 different colors and types are available
- Almost maintenance-free when it comes to new sealants
- It is heat resistant
Quartz Kitchen Countertops
Quartz countertops aka quartzite countertops are recognized as the most robust kitchen countertops and that is why it is one of the favorite materials for homeowners when it comes to countertops. It is a commonly made engineering material with names like Silestone, Ceasarstone, etc. Quartz stone is mixed with resin to produce countertops ranging from solid colors to the looks of real granite but outclasses the hardness of natural stone.
Dammars, resins, glue, and polymers bind quartz together, making it hard, while dyes are added to color the countertops. In some cases, stains of recycled glass or metal are added to spice up the design. This mixture of natural stones and artificial chemicals and resins is more resilient to household cleaners, chemicals, and stains.
It is also extremely diverse. There is a range of colors to pick from, which will help create a sophisticated look by choosing the flawless shade for your kitchen countertops. This helps you maintain a space that is not unique but has a perfect aesthetic for a kitchen that you’ll want to show off whenever you get the chance.
Advantages Of Quartz:
- The key reason people use quartz kitchen countertops is that they are very tough.
- It does not need maintenance.
- Easy to organize colors.
- Non-porous, so no need to seal
- Heat resistant
- Stain-resistant
- Does not scratch
- Quartz kitchen countertops are available in many varieties of sleek, sleek, and modern designs.
- It costs around $ 120 to $ 230 per square foot.
Marble Kitchen Countertops
This natural stone instantaneously boosts the looks of a kitchen, giving it a clean, modern feel. Marble kitchen countertops can make your kitchen look absolutely stunning and regal enough to be worth the price. There is no other material quite like a shiny grey marble, but marble countertops are also available in other colors, including shades of white, brown, and green. No two marble countertops are the same, each marble countertop will be unique.
Due to its extremely high price, marble is often not visible along the full length of most kitchen counters. Its luxurious presence is limited to use on an island or a segment of the countertop reserved for a specific nonworking center. However, this stone is not the most practical option. Marble is weaker than other natural stones, so it is important to be careful and invest in cutting boards.
You will scratch the marble countertop if you cut directly on it. An exclusive characteristic of marble is that it maintains a low temperature, which makes it perfect for people who love to cook. Sometimes marble kitchen countertops can also be more affordable than you might think. While marble looks high-end and elegant, plus it is sometimes pocket-friendly too.
Advantages Of Marble:
- Easy for kitchen counter installers.
- Waterproof and heat resistant.
- It adds to the real estate value of a house.
- Scratches can be repaired by sanding.
- Exceptionally beautiful stone, with unique veins.
- Maintains a low temperature.