Selecting a new kitchen countertops can be a difficult decision. With differing aesthetics, durability, and maintenance requirements, there are designs suited for every lifestyle. As Alliance, OH’s premier remodeling contractor, Accent Home Improvement transforms area homeowners’ dreams into reality, from planning detailed bathroom and kitchen remodeling projects to replacing windows and constructing new home additions. Below, the experts share the most common countertop types to help you select the style that works best for you:
Types of Kitchen Countertops:
Quartz
Quartz first came out in the early 2000s and quickly developed into one of the most popular countertops’ choices. It’s a human-made countertop produced by harvesting quartz (the most challenging material in a granite top) and crushing it to a sugar-like consistency. The pure quartz is then mixed with epoxies and resins and compressed through the manufacturing process resulting in a non-porous top that doesn’t need to be sealed like granite. Similar to solid-surface tops, when quartz first came out, the colors were more consistent in nature, making them not as cosmetically appealing as granite. However, with new technologies in the manufacturing process, the spectrum has expanded to a broader range of colors, incorporating movement, depth, and even translucency.
Granite
Granite has been one of the most popular kitchen countertops, available in shades ranging from pure whites to colorful corals and deep blacks. Since no two pieces are the same, you’ll achieve a one-of-a-kind look. You can also select your preferred finish, from polished to matte and honed. The material is durable and easy to clean, so choose the look that suits your aesthetic best, and you’ll achieve impressive long-lasting results. Because it is a natural stone, granite is naturally porous and needs to be sealed regularly.
Marble
Many families love the upscale appeal of marble, but it requires delicate everyday use and regular care. If you have a busy family or entertain frequently, that constant maintenance might be too much for your lifestyle. But if a sense of classic extravagance speaks to you, marble might be worth the work.
Laminate
Laminate is the most affordable countertop material available, and its color, and design options are equally varied. No matter what you’re looking for, laminate countertops are an inexpensive, efficient home renovation for any abode. Plus, they’re easy to maintain with regular cleaning. Along with every other countertop type in the industry, laminate also offers an upgraded version called High-Definition. HD laminate incorporates different finishing techniques that add “depth” to the surface based on the texture.
Wood
Wood kitchen countertops instantly warm up the room, creating a country-like vibe. They’re also easy to clean and virtually unscratchable; if you have kids with etching passions, it can easily sand out the scratches. Oiling will seal and polish the surface for an improved appearance.
Edges, Design, & Style
In addition to the countertop type, consider the edges you’d like. If square’s too simple, work with your remodeling contractor to find decorative, eye-catching edges, such as bullnose or egg shapes. You can also mix and match materials, for instance, by choosing granite for the island and marble for other areas.
Kitchen remodeling provides your home with a renewed appearance, making your entire abode feel like new. Kitchen countertops are just one feature to choose from, and with Accent Home Improvement, your dream home can become a reality. From showing you the array of materials available to completing remodeling projects every step of the way, these experts are your go-to source for home renovation.
