When it’s time to remodel a kitchen, one of the first things people consider is the kitchen countertops. With so many choices available and advancements in kitchen technology, deciding on the best kitchen countertop can be a tough choice for any homeowner. Read on for some things to consider when making this decision.

Popularity

If you’re unsure where to start, consider the type of kitchen countertops that are popular with other homeowners. Due to its association with luxury, beauty, and durability, granite remains one of the most popular options for kitchen countertops. According to Treehugger, granite countertops sit in over 64% of new homes. Quartz, marble, and soapstone are also among the top popular types of kitchen countertops.

Maintenance

The type of countertop you pick can affect how much maintenance you need to do. Caring for a countertop can go beyond wiping it down when you’re done cooking. There are some counter materials, like granite, that require sealing every couple of years.

Durability

Depending on how much cooking you do, your kitchen countertop may see a lot of wear and tear. Some materials don’t handle heat very well. If you know you’ll be using them for tons of slicing, dicing, and entertaining, you want to get the most durable material available. That’s one reason why many homeowners opt for various types of natural stone for their countertops.

Price

Like any other home purchase, consider how much it will eat into your renovation budget. Usually, natural stone ranks among the most expensive countertop materials. You should also consider the estimated ROI on your initial investment. In other words, some or all of the money that you spend upfront may come back upon the resale of your home or by increasing your home value. According to Remodeling Calculator, the average ROI of granite or quartz ranges from 60 to 80%.

Style

Do you want a warm rustic kitchen that reminds you of being in a farmhouse? Then go ahead and light quartz or marble countertops and a Butcher’s island. Should your countertop fit in with a colorful kitchen theme? If so, marble and quartz come in a range of colors and designs. Have you always desired symbols of luxury, like granite or marble? Do you care about timeless style or are you one that likes to change with ongoing trends? Whether your kitchen style is simple or unique, you can find the right countertop for you.

Materials

Are you excited about a home made from natural materials that fit with your eco-friendly standards? If so, countertops made of natural stone like granite should be at the top of your list. However, synthetic materials aren’t renewable but are usually non-porous and easy to clean. Whatever your preference, there are several types of materials used on countertops.

Uniqueness

Do you care if your countertop looks similar to others, or do you want the most unique material possible? For example, granite is popular in most American homes. However, no two slabs of granite are alike. This means you can expect your home to have its very own look. Your countertops could be a solid color, speckled, or streaked.

Installation

Think about installation in regards to eco-friendliness and how it could affect another redesign in a few years. Some materials will be more labor-intensive than others to install in your home. Mason specialists must cut stone slabs from a quarry, and the installation can take longer than other materials. Synthetic materials are easier to remove if you want to switch to a different countertop material later on. Remember to always consult with a professional when you’re ready to take on the installation.

Check Online

If you don’t feel like flipping through home decor magazines, check online for guidance on countertops and other home features. Social media sites like Pinterest are an endless board of inspiring home decor ideas that can help with any renovation. You may even discover countertop designs that you didn’t know existed.

When building a home from scratch or remodeling an existing kitchen, finding the right countertop is a must. With so many choices, it may be overwhelming until you find the perfect one. If you need help selecting the right kitchen countertop for your space, contact New York Quartz. We are the countertop experts homeowners love.