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Kitchen Countertop 43

Which Kitchen Countertop Material Is for You?

Remodeling or designing your kitchen can be an exciting project. You get to give your kitchen a new breath of life and transform it into the true heart of the home. One area of the kitchen that’s especially important is the kitchen countertops. According to Countertop Advisor, as a rule of thumb, you can expect your new kitchen countertops to boost your home’s value by roughly three times the value of the countertops. This is only if you have the countertops professionally installed. Let’s consider the available options and which kitchen countertop material is right for you.

Granite Kitchen Countertops

Granite countertops are one of the most popular options in terms of kitchen countertop materials for several reasons. For one, most homeowners like granite’s natural, organic, and earthy appearance. Keep in mind that granite is a natural stone which gives it a unique and authentic aesthetic. No two granite slabs look identical, and you have a wide range of options. A more practical reason to choose granite is that it’s highly durable, so you can rely on strong countertops that resist wear and tear and are resistant to heat, scratches, and staining.

Granite can save you money in the long run, too, even if it’s not one of the most affordable options. It can also save you a lot of hassle and energy since it requires minimal maintenance. Looking at the downsides of granite, it’s a bit on the heavier side, and it requires you to hire a skilled professional. That way, you can ensure the granite is sealed properly to ensure it remains strong and durable.

Quartz Kitchen Countertops

Quartz kitchen countertops are another popular option if you want to explore alternatives to granite. Quartz countertops are made from engineered surfaces that comprise real quartz crystals containing various minerals and pigments bonded with resin to give them a more uniform look. One of the biggest advantages of quartz is that it’s a high-end option that provides a contemporary look while also being tough and durable.

When you install quartz countertops in your kitchen, you should expect a high return on your investment because quartz is resistant to many things, including scratches and chips. Although, you still need to be careful with spills and hot pans. Another advantage of quartz is that it requires little work to maintain since it doesn’t need to be sealed regularly. All you have to do is clean the surface with a mild, non-abrasive cleanser. When considering the downsides of quartz, keep in mind that quartz countertops are considered a luxury option, so they tend to be pricier than natural stone countertops.

Marble Kitchen Countertops

You’ll be pleased to know that marble is considered one of the most elegant options on the market. Marble can add a unique richness to your kitchen and has many great qualities. For instance, marble is fairly heat resistant and can last longer when maintained properly. High-quality marble countertops can even add value to your home.

One downside of marble is that there may be a lack of consistency in appearance. When you look at slabs made from natural marble, the pattern of the veins, impurities, colors, and patterns will vary considerably. Therefore, the pieces you have installed will not look exactly the same, though this is hardly an issue for most people. In addition, marble is more expensive than other options and will need regular maintenance to remain in good condition.

Laminate Kitchen Countertops

Natural stone countertops like granite and other options like quartz have one major downside to them: they are a bit more expensive. So, if you’re looking for something more cost-effective, it’s time to consider laminate. Laminate countertops are generally made from tightly pressed and heated layers of paper to form a rigid sheet which is then glued to a wood substrate. The top advantages of laminate are that it offers many color and design options, it’s more economical, stain resistant, and requires minimal maintenance. On the other hand, laminate countertops are not as durable and have a shorter lifespan compared to other more high-end options.

Solid Surface Kitchen Countertops

Like quartz, solid surface countertops are man-made, which is in contrast to natural stone. Solid surface countertops typically comprise acrylic or polyester resins that are mixed with mineral dust and pigments. This type of material is easy to manufacture and can thus be more cost-effective. In addition, it offers a wide array of patterns and colors. The most notable benefit of this option is these countertops can be installed without any seams. In addition, solid surfaces are impact resistant, so they can be fairly durable. However, they’re still vulnerable to heat, scratches, and strong chemicals.

Concrete Countertops

Wondering if concrete countertops are right for you? You’ll have to compare the pros and cons of this option first. On the one hand, concrete countertops are known for being very durable and high-strength. Besides being almost indestructible, some people love concrete for its rustic look. On the other hand, concrete is susceptible to cracks and hairline fractures, although the cracks can be quite easy to repair. You should also be mindful of concrete countertops because they’re prone to stains and scratches, so they’ll need to be sealed properly upon installation and regularly afterward.

Butcher Block Countertops

Butcher block countertops are made from wood and can come in a wide range of styles and colors. You can opt for countertops made from maple, cherry, oak, walnut, and more. Butcher block countertops are your best bet if you’re looking for a more natural but sustainable material. This option is great because you can find countertops to match your budget since they’re available at a wide range of prices. There are also a variety of colors and styles to suit any preferred aesthetic. However, wood countertops can be vulnerable to dents, scratches, and water damage. That said, routine maintenance and proper sealing help to keep the countertops in the best possible condition.

Whether you’re choosing which countertop is right for you and your kitchen or you’re ready to start the installation process, you can gain more insights and get better quality results by working with a professional. They understand the different materials used for kitchen countertops and will point you in the right direction after considering your interests and preferences.

Countertop selection is a crucial part of any kitchen remodel or redesign. Now that you know about the various material options available, you should ask yourself which material you find the most beneficial for your home. There are many factors you have to consider regarding your lifestyle. If you like cooking and spending a lot of time in the kitchen, it may be better to choose a surface that requires little maintenance and is resistant to stains or scratches. You should choose an option that suits your style and one you find aesthetically pleasing.

Although there are quite a few considerations to make, it’s worth your while because you should make an investment you’re genuinely happy with. The good news is there are professionals available to help you with the selection and installation of your kitchen countertops. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with New York Quartz today if you need an expert to walk you through the available options so you can make an informed decision.

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