Kitchen countertops are one of the main design elements of the room. They are one of the first things that you notice when you step into the area.

A countertop can either make or break the aesthetic of the space. They will either be a stunning focal point or they will stick out like a sore thumb, depending on the color and materials used.

With so many variations on the market, choosing the right kitchen countertop may be difficult to do. With a little research and guidance, you will be able to find the perfect one for your home.

Let’s take a closer look at some various countertops that are available:

Quartz Countertops

Some of the most popular and durable countertops are made of quartz. This article states that quartz ranks almost as high as the leading material, granite.

Quartz is an excellent choice for large, busy families. It is extremely durable and virtually maintenance free. Since the stone is non-porous, it will not absorb stains.

You will find quartz countertops in a large variety of colors and patterns. You will also notice sparkles in many of the slabs, which adds to the beauty of this option.

Granite Countertops

The colors that are available for granite countertops are not only gorgeous, but they are also plentiful. According to this article, there are companies who offer over 250 different colors of granite to choose from.

You may find that granite will stain if it has not been sealed properly or if the sealant has worn off over time. There is a chance that bacteria can grow inside the porous surface if not fully sealed. Certain types of granite need to be sealed on a yearly basis, so that is something to keep in mind.

Granite is one of the highest priced materials for countertops, so also take that into consideration when making your choice.

Laminate Countertops

If you love the look of granite but not the price, you may want to choose a laminate option.

The patterns and styles of the laminate varieties are very similar to higher end materials, such as granite and quartz, but at much less cost.

Keep in mind that laminate is not as durable as a hard, natural material, but with little care, it can stay looking beautiful for many years.

Stainless Steel Countertops

If you prefer an industrial, modern style kitchen, that is easy to clean, then stainless steel countertops may be the option for you.

The non-porous material can be sanitized and will not harbor bacteria.

The price point for stainless steel countertops is about double of what granite costs. You can find more details on pricing here.

Wood Countertops

The trendy French country style kitchens look spectacular with a thick, wooden butcher block style countertop.

This is a great option if you are looking for a lower price point and durability. You must keep the wood sealed to prevent water damage or bacteria from growing. Doing so is a simple process, so you may want to consider using wood in your new kitchen.

Conclusion

Countertops should never be a fly by night purchase. Take time to put thought into your design, so it will look exactly the way you envision.

Cleaning and maintenance are important points that can affect your decision. You will also want to take your family’s lifestyle into consideration. If there are many children, you may need a more durable surface than if you live alone.

Before making your countertop choice, it is always best to speak with an experienced, professional designer. They will be able to inform you of the many available options. Your sense of style, budget, layout and size of your kitchen will all be taken into consideration. Soon you will be on your way to a gorgeous, new kitchen.

For further reading, check out: 5 Strategies For Planning Your Kitchen Remodel and Kitchen Cupboard Storage – The Ultimate Designs

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