It’s time to choose your countertops if you’ve already decided on your kitchen’s plan, color, and style.
Countertops come in a bewildering variety of options. It takes time and thorough research to make a well-informed decision. Countertop materials might be synthetic or natural, cheap or extremely expensive, with many widely available possibilities.
So how do you finally decide? The usefulness of the top you choose is the most important factor to consider. Here are four of our clients’ top picks.
Marble
Although marble surfaces can come in a wide range of colors and patterns and look lovely, they are very expensive. Cleaners, coffee, and alcohol can all scratch or etch it. Learn more about the distinctions between granite, quartz, marble, and other countertop materials.
At least once each year, marble will need to be sealed. Marble is a great alternative if you are diligent about maintenance and treat it carefully.
Although it won’t stain, it will scratch quite readily. Fear not; sanding can remove burns or scratches because it is a solid surface. An expert can give the top surface a fresh look by sanding around 1/8″ off of it. You must remember that the entire top, not just the damaged region, needs to be sanded.
Granite
Your kitchen will have personality and depth, thanks to the granite. Your home will gain a high resale or appraisal value as a result.
There are countless color and pattern options. Since granite is a wholly natural stone, it tends to be uneven and veiny and may look overly busy in some kitchens.
Marble cannot possibly match the durability of granite. It would help if you sealed granite countertops annually to avoid stains because they are porous stones. It is thought to be heat- and scratch-resistant. However, setting hot pots down on the surface is not advised.
Quartzite
Due to its development at a great depth in the ground, quartzite is even more durable than granite. The stone is not easily etched or cracked. Even with daily usage, it will survive for years with proper maintenance.
The advantage of quartzite kitchen countertops is that they nearly resemble expensive marble, but they are far more durable. Countertops made of quartzite are significantly less prone to etching, scratching, and discoloration.
Engineered Stone (Quartz)
Nonporous engineered stone is a creation of humankind. It is practically maintenance-free and will withstand scratches and stains. It is, however, at least 90% quartz and is typically blended with dyes to produce a certain color while looking like a natural stone.
Quartz color choices are typically extremely predictable and lack a lot of patterns. Care should be given when placing highly hot goods on it because it is not thought to be heat-proof.
Generally speaking, quartz countertops cost more than granite but less than marble.
Options Beside
Soapstone, Onyx, Semi-Precious Stones, and of course, Porcelain are other surfaces that may be of interest. Our earlier piece covered more information regarding some of these choices.
Visit SK Stones to speak with a skilled kitchen designer before deciding on your countertop. They can inform you and help you decide which option is ideal for your kitchen.
Read More: How to Decide Between Light or Dark Kitchen Cabinets?
