How to Pick a Perfect Kitchen Countertop

Countertops come in an exciting range of options. Beyond the sheer variety of colors and finishes, today there are more materials than ever to choose from. In this blog, we're looking at some of the key factors to think about while choosing countertops for your kitchen.

Aesthetics

First decide the look you want to achieve: neutral or statement? Then explore surface types, which include stone, stainless steel, concrete, lavastone, marble, tile, "green"materials like bamboo or recycled glass. Most of these come in a variety of colors and finishes. If you're going for a warm kitchen look, then wood is a great option. Marble gives a more elegant and bright look with crisp white palettes and classy textures.

Durability

Secondly, think about how and who will use these countertops. Do you spill frequently? Will you place hot pots on these countertops? Do you have kids who play on the countertops? Are you going to use a knife directly on your countertops?

The quartz, also known as the 'real' stone, is a hard-working, durable material that requires little maintenance. Marble, on the other hand, can get stains, chips and scratches easily. It is common for people to put marble in specific areas for this reason. Soapstone, another common countertop material, needs polishing with oil regularly to keep in shape. It can crack over time and can't handle knife scratches or nicks. When checking for durability, think about the purpose of these countertops to make an accurate decision.

Price

Another key factor in choosing countertops is the budget. Laminate is one of the most affordable countertops. They are easy to clean and require very little maintenance. On the other hand, paper composite, a material that can withstand heat and water extremely well is much more expensive. Some other affordable options are tile, wood and marble. An expensive but unique material that is popular is slate which costs anywhere between $150 to $170 per square foot. Eventually your kitchen size and budget will help you make an informed decision when it comes to kitchen countertops.

Finishing touches

While many countertops are square-edged, consider rounded or beveled, decorative edges. Also consider mixing and matching: placing a wood inset for chopping, orusing a different surface on the island.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to countertops, you can get creative with materials, colors and textures. A balanced kitchen design would complement the cabinet design, the backsplash, the appliances and other accessories like sink, faucets etc. (Kitchen Remodeling 101) While browsing for countertops, make sure to consider aesthetics, durability and your budget.