Counter Tops
When remodeling your kitchen, the counter tops are among the areas of focus. You want to choose the right countertop to contribute to the kitchen’s general esthetics and last long. The good thing is that there are various types of counter tops to choose from, including:
Natural Stone
Some of the most common natural stones that can make counter tops include granite, soapstone, marble, and slate. Granite is perhaps the most popular natural stone counter top. It is available in various colors and usually comes in long, thick slabs requiring no or few seams.
Marble, soapstone, and slate come in fewer colors compared to granite. Marble and soapstone are porous, meaning they are not stain resistant. On the other hand, slate is non-porous, meaning it does not require frequent maintenance.
Concrete
Some concrete counter tops may be pre-cast and delivered to your home when fully cured. However, in most cases, they will be cast right in your kitchen. The use of additives reduces the risk of cracking, and they can be textured or acid stained to produce colors.
Wood
Wood counter tops are sometimes referred to as butcher block counter tops. Marple and oak are the most common counter top woods and are available in different colors and finishes. You can easily clean them, and at times sand and reseal. However, you need to maintain them properly because they can harbor bacteria.
Laminate
Laminate counters are usually plastic-coated synthetics with a smooth surface that you can easily clean. The good thing is that they are relatively cheap and come in a variety of colors. You can purchase the DIY options that are usually pre-formed. However, a potential home buyer may view laminate counter tops as too average.
Stainless Steel
Although they may be expensive, stainless steel counter tops will give your kitchen a seamless, modern look. They are heat resistant and easy to clean.
Quartz
Usually referred to as engineered stone, quartz counter tops were created as an alternative to marble. They contain up to 93% quartz particles. The resin that binds the particles makes it very difficult to stain but cannot handle heat the way natural stone does. This is a very affordable replacement for marble and is always makes a huge impression for any kitchen remodel in Alexandria VA
Tile
Ceramic and porcelain tile counter tops are easy to clean and much less expensive than other options like quartz and natural stone. They are durable, and you can get them in various colors and designs. Ceramic and porcelain tile counter tops are resistant to heat. However, they are brittle and may crack and may develop grout lines, which are difficult to clean.
Solid Surface
Solid surface counter tops contain acrylic particles bound together by resins. They are relatively cheap compared to quartz and granite, making them suitable for large counter top space. They are stain-resistant with virtually invisible seams. However, be careful with heat because they contain resins.
Bottom-line
Many counter top options are available to give your kitchen the desired look you want. You can decide to purchase the DIY options or work with a kitchen remodeling company. All will depend on your budget, the type of material you want, and the size of your kitchen.
