April 15, 2024
Choosing a Kitchen Countertop Material
August 16, 2016
Your kitchen’s countertops really set the tone for the look and feel of the kitchen. Choosing the right material for your kitchen countertop remodel can be difficult, especially if you are unfamiliar with the material options. A recent study says that over half of all kitchen remodels end up choosing granite countertops, more than likely due to their durability and high functionality. It is safe to say that the majority of those other remodels end up with quartz or concrete, two other popular options. Choosing the best countertop for your kitchen remodel is easy if you understand what each countertop can give you and how it fits with your kitchen’s look and your budget.
Countertop Material Profiles
Granite
Hands down the most popular of all the countertop materials, granite comes in several grades, patterns, colors, and weights. The cost of granite depends on all those factors and then the size of the slab you choose, but this versatile material can range anywhere from an affordable $20 a square foot to upwards of $1,200 a square foot. The size of the slab and its thickness are what can drive up the cost overall. Granite does increase the resale value of the home and will stand the test of time. It’s easy to clean, won’t stain, and is durable.
Laminate
Often referred to as formica, this plastic coated material comes in many colors and styles, including faux granite. If your budget is tight, or maybe you are flipping a house and need to do a quick remodel, this could be a workable solution. Most people choose to go with granite over laminate because laminate is a quick fix to getting the look that you want, and you will wind up replacing it down the road regardless.
Quartz
Quartz is also referred to in the kitchen remodel world as “engineered stone” and is composed mostly of quartz particles. The prices range from high to low and the options are many, colors are endless, more so than granite. Quartz is non-porous and is stain and scratch resistant. This material will also sometimes come with a manufacturer’s warranty. Quartz is another durable and popular material in modern kitchens.
Tile
Yes, some people do tile their countertops, it isn’t just for the floor you know. Ceramic tile is most common on tiled countertops, while not the popular option, it is a material that can be used. The reason you won’t commonly see this in today’s kitchens is that tiles crack, require grouting, and grout can also stain.
Soapstone
These countertops come in pewter colors and are ideal for historical renovations and remodels. They get darker over time and require a lot of maintenance, with good old fashioned mineral oil. You could call these your great-great grandmother’s counter tops, historical in look and smooth to touch, many people like them because they add a lot of character.
Concrete
Concrete is making a come back in the remodeling world, we are seeing it pop up in kitchens and even bathrooms these days. Cast concrete countertops are versatile because they can be poured to any shape, and created after the kitchen design has already taken place. Concrete is durable for sure, and with special treatment we can eliminate cracking and staining as well. With sealants, concrete isn’t the porous material you once thought it was. If you’re picturing a boring grey slab you’d be wrong, concrete can be stained numerous colors and even given a textured look.
Steel
Steel countertops aren’t just for restaurant kitchens anymore, some modern home remodelers are choosing stainless steel countertops for their kitchens. It provides a sleek finish, it’s easy to clean, won’t scratch or dent, so what’s not to love? Well, maybe the cost, stainless steel is one of the more expensive options, this is why you might see it in certain areas of the kitchen but most choose not to use it as the primary surface.
If you aren’t an expert on countertop materials, that’s ok, we are! Not only do we know our stuff but we also bring all the materials to your door, so you can see how they look in your kitchen, not just in the showroom. We are also experts at mixing and matching colors, textures, and materials to help you design your dream kitchen. We’ve been helping Maryland residents remodel their kitchens for over 40 years. Contact us today for a free estimate and let us bring our show room to your room.
