7 Kitchen Countertop Materials to Consider for Your Home
When it comes to selecting countertops for your kitchen, the options are endless. Today we hope to educate you on a few options to consider when choosing countertops for your new kitchen!
1. Soapstone
Soapstone has been rising in popularity, specifically as an alternative to granite. It is a beautiful natural material that is very smooth, and is usually dark gray in color. Architectural soapstone that would be used for countertops is hard, and surprisingly stain resistant. Any damage made to it can typically be sanded out as well, making them great at withstanding the test of time. Soapstone has to be treated with mineral oil regularly, and does have a tendency to darken over time, but this can create the perfect look for certain home designs.
2. Marble
Marble is another natural stone that is commonly seen in kitchens. No two are the same, so each marble countertop will be uniquely its own. Marble does have a hefty price tag, so even limiting it to your island countertop can be a great way to add a sense of luxury to your kitchen. Marble is waterproof and heatproof, and it adds value to your home. Be aware though, that if it is damaged, it is very difficult to repair as well as having a tendency for staining and scratching. But for those looking to design a luxurious kitchen, marble countertops might just be for you!
3. Quartz
Quartz is definitely a cool option when it comes to countertop materials. It was originally created as a great alternative for granite or marble. It comes in a large variety of colors, as well as being stain and scratch resistant. It also requires no regular sealing or maintenance. Due to it being an engineered stone, each slab will be completely uniform with no imperfections. The only downside can be the hefty price tag, and how heavy they can be for installation if you plan to do it yourself.
4. Butcher Block
Wood countertops bring a beautiful warm look to a kitchen. Harder woods such as maple and oak are the most popular for those selecting wood countertops. They are easy to clean, and can last a long time if properly cared for. You can sand and reseal them as they brave the test of time, to keep them looking fresh and new. Though without proper maintenance bacteria can form, as well as potential cracking. But for those of us looking to achieve a charming cozy feel in our home, butcher block countertops might just be the right choice!
5. Concrete
For those looking for a unique modern look, concrete countertops should be seriously considered. They are highly customizable, and are typically poured into their form right in your kitchen! With the right additives and treatments, you can avoid cracking and reduce its porous tendencies. It is also heat and scratch resistant. If your goal is to achieve a distinctive contemporary look, concrete countertops might be the right choice for you!
6. Granite
Granite has been a top material of choice when it comes to many peoples countertop selections. Granite can make even the most modest kitchen, and give it a sense of luxury. Granite is heat resistant, and very durable. It also adds real estate value to your home. A few other things to consider is the price tag on granite, as well as its natural imperfections. If not properly installed, it can crack quite easily as well. If you’re looking for a customizable, yet traditional look, granite might just be for you!
7. Ceramic Tile
This one is the most unique of our options, and gives endless options for customizability. It is also a fairly budget friendly option, depending on what tile you select. It is also great for those who love a good DIY project. One must also consider the staining that will eventually occur in the grout lines, as well as the natural brittleness of the tiles that can make them prone to cracking. But if you’re looking for a fun, unique, DIY in your kitchen, then ceramic tiles might be for you!
These are just 7 of the endless options one must pick from when making the tough decision on what countertops to install in a new kitchen! So whether going for a classic clean look, or a modern industrial look, one of these countertops might just be the one for you!