Top Three Countertop Choices

When it comes to planning your kitchen remodel, one of the main design aspects is the kitchen counters. There are tons of different options available, and each one has pros and cons. We’ve compiled a list of the top three choices for any kitchen and some good points for each one.

Granite

Granite is one of the most popular choices for kitchen countertops. These stones come in a variety of colors that can be matched with your decor. The natural patterns on the stone really draw attention in a kitchen and give a beautiful design. It is a very dense stone that holds up really well to the demands of a kitchen, and it doesn’t show wear and tear. Granite requires a sealant in order to prevent stains from getting into the stone. Make sure to discuss with a specialist about how often to reapply the sealant.

Quartz

Quartz is known for being one of the hardest minerals, so naturally it makes a good choice for a kitchen countertop. Unlike a granite countertop, quartz countertops are manufactured in a factory. The resins that are used to hold together the ground-up quartz help to make the counters durable and scratch resistant. Also unlike granite, quartz never needs to be sealed. It can come in a single pattern and color, or may have flecks of color mixed in to mimic the look of granite.

Wood

Wooden countertops are a choice that has been forgotten with the recent rise of stone. For a while, people were worried that germs were being transmitted through contact with wooden surfaces, but that has been disproven through several studies. It actually proved that wood is less likely to transfer germs than a plastic cutting board. Wooden countertops like butcher block and rock maple also need to be sealed. Polyurethane finishes can be applied to protect the counters for a few years. Some homeowners prefer the oiled look, but this requires applying a mineral oil finish every four to six weeks. Some homeowners don’t have the time or schedule to do this.

When looking to replace your countertops, it is best to consult an expert. Cardigan Kitchens and Bath has over 45 years of experience in installing and designing kitchens. Call us today for an estimate.