Countertops are a crucial component of every kitchen. Although often perceived as a significant investment for a home, countertops greatly enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the kitchen.
With so many options, choosing the right kitchen countertop can be intimidating. Regardless of your reason for replacing your kitchen countertop, selecting the right kitchen countertop material that suits your style, budget, and practical needs is a challenging task.
Here’s a guide to help you choose the best kitchen countertop materials.
Ceramic Tile Countertop Installation
Ceramic tile countertop installations are made from individual clay-based tiles, which are attached to a cement-board core using thin-set mortar adhesive. For kitchen countertops, grout seams make tile a less-than-ideal countertop material but newer ceramic and porcelain tiles come in large sizes that can reduce seams and facilitate easier upkeep.
Furthermore, this is a cheap countertop material that ranges in price from $1 to $100 per square foot. While it is easy for a DIY project, remember that tile is brittle and susceptible to cracking. The repair process is challenging and requires the complete replacement of the damaged tiles. Grout seams are difficult to clean and are prone to discoloration.
Butcher-block Countertops
Butcher-block countertops, similar to solid wood countertops, are ideal for prep work and chopping due to their direct use as cutting boards. These countertops aren’t as hard as the surfaces of most solid wood countertops, which implies that they are particularly effective on delicate chinaware and glass items.
Additionally, these counters aren’t exactly durable, particularly when hot pans are frequently set on them or used as a cutting board. These counters scratch easily unlike any other material and also require periodic sealing due to their inability to resist stains especially when placed near a washbasin.
Granite Countertops
Granite countertops have been the standard for many years due to their durability as a natural stone. Granite comes in a variety of light and dark colors with all sorts of flecks and variations. Another unique feature of this material is that it can be cut with various edge options, including square, beveled, ogee (which is an S-shape), and half and full bullnose.
Granite countertops require very little maintenance and are easy to take care of, but it’s best to avoid using harsh cleaning products and opt for a natural and plant-based granite countertop cleaner. Granite can be cleaned with only a little soap and water. Some granites are more porous than others and may need periodic sealing to prevent stains.
Moreover, it can withstand heat, so you can feel free to take pots directly from the oven and place them on the granite counter. No trivet needed! However, it isn’t wise to cut directly on granite due to its high hardness, which can dull knives.
Marble Countertops
Marble countertops are a trendy and beautiful natural stone option on the high-end side, offering a stylish and desirable look. Marble has two types: honed and polished. Honed marble is porous and has a matte appearance, where polished marble has a glossy, protective surface.
One method to lower the cost of marble countertops is to use marble tiles instead of slabs.
It’s a high maintenance natural stone, so it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for daily care, cleaning, and sealing strictly. Like other porous stone countertops, regular sealing is crucial for maintaining the aesthetic appeal of marble for a long period.
Stainless Steel Countertops
Stainless steel countertops are stylish and functional, allowing you to channel your inner chef. Once primarily found in restaurant and commercial kitchens, stainless steel is gaining popularity among home chefs due to its durability, stain resistance, and heat-tolerant properties, making it an ideal choice for contemporary kitchens.
These countertops pair surprisingly well with white shaker cabinets and warm wood tones. So, to balance the coolness of steel, consider adding warmth to your kitchen. And to top it off, stainless steel countertops are 100% recyclable, which reduces the carbon footprint of your kitchen renovation.