How Do I Pick a Countertop?

When planning a kitchen remodel, everyone thinks about the appliances and the cabinetry because they are big and bold and focal points of the room. One area that might not get a whole lot of thought is your kitchen countertops. Sure they need to look good, but they also need to be functional and fit your style of living. Consider some of the different materials available for your new kitchen, talk to your designer, and choose what works best for you and your budget.

Quartz

Quartz has become quite a popular choice for countertops and ranks among the highest among other materials. This is most likely due to the fact that it resists stains, is heat and scratch-resistant, does not chip easily, and it does not need to be sealed. Though it can be a bit pricy and sometimes looks uniform in pattern, it is still considered one of the best bets for your buck.

Granite

Still the most popular kid on the block, granite is gorgeous thanks to its natural grain that gives each kitchen a unique look. It’s also pretty durable since it resists cracks and chips and can hold its own with a hot pot. Granite must be sealed every year to stand up to stains, but that is minimal maintenance for the beauty it provides.

Soapstone

This natural stone surface ranges in color from light to dark grey with a pretty, natural veining throughout. The stone is heat and bacteria resistant as well as impervious to stains. Thought it can be easily scratched, scratches tend to fade over time and, if desired, can easily be sanded out. Though it does not require annual sealing, regular applications of mineral oil will cover imperfections and deepen the color and shine.

Laminate

Laminate is quickly coming back into fashion thanks to the variety of patterns and textures available that resemble granite, wood, and even quartz. Laminate is a very budget friendly option for those who want a great looking countertop that doesn’t need a sealant and is stain resistant.

Glass

Glass countertops are visually stunning, sleek, and ultra-modern. They are quite durable as well as heat and stain resistant. Glass can be customized to just about any color you desire, though price might be on option for those on a budget. Be sure that your countertops are at least one-inch think to ensure strength.

So there you have it. These are just a few of the options available as the list of materials that make up a great kitchen are almost endless. At Cardigan, we can walk you through the pros and cons of every material and help you choose the best option.We know countertops and we’ll be here for you when you’re ready to take that next step to a better and brighter kitchen.