Kitchen Countertops

Popular Types of Kitchen Countertops

Kitchen countertops can be quite expensive, but this does not necessarily mean that you need to settle for cheap materials. The problem with buying a new kitchen countertop, especially if it is anodized or stainless steel, is that over time it will begin to take a stain from cooking or food-related stains. For example, grease stains from oven crumbs, coffee drips, and spilled liquids will all work their way into the surface of your beautiful new countertop. Even so, there are several things that you can do to save money when it comes to countertop maintenance. One thing that you can do is to build up a solution over time with a simple sealant application. However, in order to save money and get a nice looking countertop, here are some things to remember:

First, avoid using cheap porcelain tiles or mosaic tiles in your kitchen countertops. These materials will begin to show signs of aging within just a few years of being installed. Plus, they are completely porous which allows any stains to permeate the surface and get onto your beautiful new countertop. Instead, consider using recycled glass and stone for your kitchen countertops.

Second, look at some of the more popular countertop materials such as granite, quartz, soapstone, and wood countertops. These materials have very unique characteristics. For example, granite has the incredible ability to be honed, polished, and even dyed to create the perfect look for whatever type of kitchen countertop is installed. Plus, quartz is extremely durable and will withstand high temperatures. And wood countertops have become a very popular choice for people who like the natural beauty of a natural material.

Third, do not discount the value of a sealing agent when deciding between granite countertops, quartz, and soapstone. These three countertop materials are very popular because of their unmatched scratch resistance and heat retaining properties. If you are interested in purchasing one or more of these materials, make sure that you find out if the company you are considering has a good reputation for customer service. You definitely want to work with someone that you can trust will give you the time of day when it comes to installing, refinishing, and maintaining your new kitchen countertops.

Fourth, look at the cost factor when choosing between granite countertops, quartz countertops, and soapstone countertops. Although each of these materials has its own unique characteristics, they are all pretty comparable in cost. Granite tends to be the more expensive of the three materials, but is still fairly affordable. The reason for this is because granite countertops are harder to install, which will raise the cost of the installation. However, quartz countertops, soapstone, and granite are much easier to work with, and therefore are much less expensive to purchase.

Finally, consider the color palette of the kitchen countertops you are considering. Since color choices range from very natural colors to bold, saturated colors, there is a color palette to meet just about any taste. Some homeowners go with a neutral color palette such as white and black, while other people go with more brightly colored slabs. Granite countertops are popular because they have a rich texture, and slate slabs are popular because they are easy to cut, light weight, and because they are available in many different color palettes.