A kitchen is where the magic happens -- where bonds are formed over cooking up delicious recipes; where hearts are healed over warm cups of soup and homemade bread; where Grandma’s famous cookies materialize whenever the need to reminisce arises.
That’s why it’s so important to get the look you want through your choice in materials. And since countertops take up a huge portion of visual space in a kitchen, it’s important you find a countertop material that looks beautiful and matches your tastes and needs. Read up on the latest trends in countertops to discover their pros and cons.
Granite
Granite is a classic favorite, and one of the most sought-after materials when it comes to kitchen countertops. It has real lasting power and is beautiful and stylish, adding an immediate sophistication to any kitchen. Not only that, but it holds up well as a durable, heat-resistant material.
While granite is a bit pricier than other countertop materials, it does last a lifetime, and increases the value of a home. Granite is relatively easy to clean, but requires a yearly resealing to help it last longer, prevent stains, and keep bacteria growth at bay.
Marble
It’s hard to beat the beauty of marble. As one of the most expensive materials for countertops, marble exudes elegance and luxury that enhances the look of any kitchen. One current trend is to extend the marble onto the backsplash for a really fashionable look. While it isn’t as durable as granite, it’s easy to clean and is an ideal surface for rolling out dough or baking
Quartz
Quartz is increasing in popularity as a less-expensive alternative to granite. While not a natural stone, it is engineered to look like one. Scratch-, stain-, and heat-resistant, quartz is very durable. Since it’s manufactured, however, you won’t get the natural variances in appearance that real stone provides.
Corian
Corian is a manufactured material, and can be made without seams. If you want to have complete control of the look of your countertops, with no variations, Corian allows for that. It’s easy to clean, but darker colors require more attention. Corian isn’t as durable as stone countertops like granite, but is less expensive and still beautiful.
Butcher Block
Butcher block appeals to many as it adds warmth to the look of a kitchen, while also being an ideal surface for preparing food. Repairs to scratches and burns are also easy for a homeowner to handle.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile countertops are a classic look and can be customized to fit different sizes and shapes in your kitchen. If the surface is damaged, it’s easy to repair, as you can replace only the affected tiles. However, this is also a disadvantage because individual tiles are more susceptible to cracks and damage. Grout can also be very difficult to keep clean.
Concrete
Concrete is a new trend emerging that’s versatile to any taste. You can have it ground, stained, polished, and even embedded with additions like seashells or stones. While concrete allows you to add a unique element to your kitchen, it does require regular sealing.
Stainless Steel
For the modern kitchen, stainless steel creates a clean look. It’s durable and easy to clean and is resistant to heat and stains. However, it does scratch easily.
New Life Bath and Kitchen can help you work through your countertop options to get the kitchen or bathroom of your dreams. Talk to us today. Check out our portfolio, and call us at (805) 639-5433