Here’s Everything You Need To Know

Are you planning a home renovation this spring? A complete home remodel is never complete without reinventing your kitchen. The market now offers an array of choices when it comes to kitchen countertops. For a novice it might be overwhelming to choose the right kitchen counter surface, but this article will give you a rundown of the eight most popular choices of countertops for your kitchen.

Granite Countertops

Granite is often considered one of the most preferred kitchen
countertops. Granite spells kitchen elegance. This material comes in a variety of colors, and the choices are endless. One reason for this is that granite can withstand the extremes of a kitchen, like heat and spills. Though granite is quite expensive, the material can last a lifetime, thereby providing good value for the money. If granite countertops are not properly sealed, the stone will have a tendency to absorb stains. The countertop will be prone to cracks or damage if the material is not properly installed.

Engineered Stone Countertops

93% of engineered stone is made of quartz particles and comes in a wide array of colors. Its nonporous surface makes it resistant to scratches, moisture and stains. Maintenance is easy and does not require annual sealing. One downside is that it is quite expensive compared to other materials for kitchen countertops.

Solid Surface Countertops

One advantage of the solid surface countertop is that damage and scratches are easily sanded out. These countertops can be custom-made to your preference and come in a variety of colors. They are stain resistant but susceptible to heat, so watch out with the hot pans.

Ceramic Countertops

Ceramic tile is known for its durability and easy maintenance. It is very affordable which is why it’s the material of choice for most homes. Ceramic tiles come in a variety of colors, surface textures, and designs. They can withstand heat and are inexpensive; however, custom-made ceramic tiles cost more than the ordinary ceramic. Ceramic tiles are prone to cracks and chips and the grout will require regular sealing and maintenance.

Laminated Countertops

These countertops often go by their trademarked names like Formica and Nevamar. They are synthetics that are plastic-coated, have a smooth surface and require very little maintenance. They are durable and cost less than other countertop materials. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns, so you can get creative with the look in your kitchen. The only downside of this laminated plastic countertop is that scratches come easy and are irreparable.

Wood Countertops

Wood countertops give warmth to your kitchen and come in a variety of colors and finishes. Common hardwood materials for countertops are maple and oak, but many other species are used as well. Wood countertops
have a smooth surface and require and can be made in all sorts of patterns. Durability is not its redeeming quality, though. Water can damage wood countertops over time and stains can be very hard to clean. Scratches need to be oiled or sealed, so you can see there is a lot of maintenance that goes into creating this look.

Stainless steel countertop

Stainless Steel Countertops

If you want a more modern or commercial look for your kitchen, then stainless steel countertops are the choice for you. Durability is excellent and stainless steel countertops are heat resistant and very easy to clean. The downside of stainless-steel is the price; they can be very expensive. This type of counter top is prone to dents and is a little noisy to work on.

Soapstone Countertops

These countertops are commonly dark gray in color and are seen in a lot of historic homes. However, they are starting to become popular in more contemporary homes. These countertops require a lot of regular maintenance to retain their luster and smoothness, but provide a very unique look that you don’t see very often.

Armed with this information, you will surely have a better idea of what countertops would best suit your newly renovated kitchen. N-Hance Boise are experts when it comes to the look and feel of a kitchen. Need some advice or want to learn about our granite sealing services? Then give us a call and we can setup an in home estimate.