Five Countertop Material Options
Kitchen countertops are a sight to behold in your kitchen. They add elegance and class to the kitchen area. The right material and color should be chosen so that it will complement the whole theme of your house.
There are different countertop materials you can choose from. Ever one of these materials has their advantages and disadvantages. You must consider the quality, durability, price and the time and effort to install them. Here are five countertop materials that are commonly used by homeowners:
Granite
Granite countertops have been popular for a very long time. Granite countertops are beautiful and strong and have a natural grain which makes every design unique. They can be shaped and cut according to the structure of your kitchen. They are also beautiful to use for kitchen islands and even for a dining table. They are extremely durable and can endure heat very well. On the other hand, granite countertops require regular maintenance as they can become highly absorbent. Thus, any dirt, grease, or spilled water should be wiped to avoid any further damage.
Stainless Steel
Stainless Steel is a great choice if you want a more modern or industrial look for your kitchen. Stainless steel countertops are also durable and can take up 800 degrees of heat. They provide a homogenous feel to the kitchen as they match with other stainless appliances and fixtures. However, steel can rust if not maintained and properly cleaned. It is also very susceptible to scratches.
Engineered Stone
Engineered stone is becoming popular in modern houses and condominiums due to its modern look and durability. It does not require any sealing and looks almost the same as stone but less expensive. Engineered stone can stand heavy usage and does a good job at concealing parts of the appliances.
Wood
Wood countertops are less as popular as granite, stainless steel or engineered stone but they are beautiful and exudes warmth and natural beauty. The price varies depending on the type and thinness or thickness of the wood. The natural color of the wood can complement your flooring, shelves, and doors. However, wood can be scratched and tainted very easily. If water is left for too long, they can cause discoloration to the countertops. Similarly, direct heat can cause wood swelling.
Concrete
Concrete is another great option for countertops. They don't scratch, can stand the heat and are very strong. The materials to build concrete countertops are less expensive than granite, steel, wood, or engineered stone; however, they require time and technical expertise to be effective
Aside from the five materials discussed, there also other options such as soapstone and glass. Soapstones are famous for being strong and stain and heat-resistant but can exhibit discoloration over time. Glass countertops are visually pleasing and give the kitchen more room and light; however, they are prone to scratches and cracking.
Contact a company like GranBrazil Inc for more information and assistance.