Choosing The Best Countertops For Your Kitchen

If you are considering the installation of a new countertop in the kitchen or bath, you will find that there is a wide variety of materials from which to choose. Although most countertop materials are beautiful, durable and easy to care for, there are certain characteristics of the various materials that might make one a better choice for you.

Tile Countertops

Tile countertops can range from those made from relatively inexpensive ceramic tile all the way up to ones made from specialty tiles, glass tiles, and patterned tiles. Tile is a very easy to clean and is resistant to wear. However, a tile countertop must be installed using grout between the tiles, which does take a bit of extra care and maintenance so that it remains attractive. As a general rule, if you install a tile countertop, you should use a sealant on the grout to prevent staining and discoloration. Although it can be a bit time-consuming, installing a tile countertop is well within the reach of the average do-it-yourself home owner.

Natural Stone Countertops

Granite can be used to make beautiful and durable countertops for both the kitchen as well as the bath. It is quite strong and durable, and can easily withstand the abuse of the average kitchen. However, it also tends to be one of the most expensive countertop surfaces. There are other less expensive natural stone options for countertops, including limestone, lava rock, and limestone, but these are less durable. Another alternative is a countertop made from engineered stone, which consists of chips of natural stone mixed with epoxy resin to produce a strong and beautiful countertop. Concrete countertops are often included with stone countertops because of their similar appearance and feel. Concrete makes a great countertop, and is more affordable than granite. Marble is also sometimes used for countertops in the bathroom, but it is generally not strong and durable enough to be used in kitchen countertops. Depending on the type of stone, there are waxes and sealants that can be used to help preserve the surface and prevent stains.

Synthetic Countertop Materials

Ranging from inexpensive laminates to brand name acrylic countertop surfaces, synthetic countertops have been among the most popular surfaces for decades. They are available in a wide variety of colors and patterns, some of which are designed to simulate natural materials such as stone. They are easy to care for and are quite durable, especially if a good quality countertop is selected. For the kitchen, these countertops are available in preformed shapes that include a rounded front edge and pre-formed backsplash edge. Most home building stores carry stock lengths of countertop material in basic colors, and it is possible to custom order countertops in various configurations, sizes and colors.

Specialty Countertop Materials

There are also specialty countertop materials available, which include stainless steel or wood. Large expanses of stainless steel countertop surface are becoming increasingly popular in kitchens, as it provides a very modern and professional look. However, the use of wood is usually confined to cutting board sections of countertops made from other materials, as it is not generally considered practical for overall countertop use.