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As the most expansive surface in a kitchen, countertops play a major role in defining the room's style. Yet style is only one of the factors that homeowners must consider when choosing kitchen countertops. Affordability, functionality, durability and ease of care come into play as well. Fortunately, a broad selection of materials, colors and finishes ensures the right choice for any kitchen.
Affordable OptionsLaminate countertops remain the most popular choice for homeowners on a budget, and today's laminate products ensure that homeowners needn't sacrifice style to save money. Fashioned from layers of paper soaked with melamine resin, laminate comes in a broad range of patterns and colors. Laminate's main drawback is that if damaged, it can be difficult to repair.
Tile is another affordable option that offers a lot of style options too. Glazed porcelain tile is durable and functional. It's non-porous and resistant to heat, scratches and stains. Tile does require more maintenance than other materials, as the grout tends to stain.
Durable StyleBoth for its strength and the broad range of design options, solid surfacing is become an increasingly popular choice for kitchen countertops. A material cast in acrylic or polyester, solid surfacing is available in a variety of designs, including those that mimic the look of stone. The material is non-porous and stain-resistant, but not resistant to high heat. Natural StoneStone is considered the premium material for kitchen countertops, but is typically the most expensive. While characteristics vary according to the type of stone, with periodic sealing to keep it water-resistant, most stone countertops remain impervious to water, stains and heat. Stones get their color and veining from the site in which they are quarried, providing endless variations of color and pattern. Granite is the most durable stone. Acidic foods and cleaners can stain stones like marble, travertine and limestone, but the stains can be buffed out.
Other countertop materials include stainless steel, fiber cement, concrete and glass. Each countertop material has its advantages and disadvantages. The right kitchen countertop will be one that suits the style of the room, the cook's demands and the family budget.
What else can I help you with?
What are the benefits of choosing a polish quartz countertop for my kitchen renovation project?
Choosing a polished quartz countertop for your kitchen renovation project offers benefits such as durability, resistance to stains and scratches, low maintenance, and a wide range of colors and designs to choose from.
What are the benefits of choosing a laminate countertop with a wood edge for your kitchen renovation project?
Choosing a laminate countertop with a wood edge for your kitchen renovation project offers the benefits of durability, affordability, and a stylish appearance. The laminate surface is easy to clean and maintain, while the wood edge adds a touch of warmth and elegance to your kitchen.
What countertop design should I use in my new kitchen?
There are many countertop design that are available for use in a new kitchen. Granite and concrete are great options for your new countertop in the kitchen.
What are the benefits of choosing a burnt wood countertop for your kitchen renovation project?
Choosing a burnt wood countertop for your kitchen renovation project can offer several benefits. These countertops are durable, resistant to scratches and stains, and have a unique and stylish appearance. Additionally, burnt wood countertops are environmentally friendly as they are often made from reclaimed or sustainable wood sources.
What are some important factors to consider when choosing a microwave stand for a countertop?
When choosing a microwave stand for a countertop, consider factors such as the size and weight capacity of the stand, the material it is made of for durability, the design to match your kitchen decor, and any additional storage or shelving options it may offer.
Does epoxy resin use for countertop of kitchen as a solid surface if no why?
Does epoxy resin use for countertop of kitchen as a solid surface if no why?
What are the top features to consider when choosing a counter top gas range for your kitchen?
When choosing a countertop gas range for your kitchen, consider the size and layout of your kitchen, the number of burners and their power levels, the type of controls, the oven capacity and features, the overall design and aesthetics, and the brand reputation for quality and reliability.
Where can one find Formica counter tops?
Hi Everyone, Contacting your local contractor is the right decision you can make for all your bathroom and kitchen countertop needs. You can also ask your friends and neighbors for the recommendations for choosing the right contractor. I am living in Ohio and for all my countertop needs I trust legacymarbleandgranite.com Thanks!!
What is the standard width of a countertop?
There is no standard width of a kitchen countertop! After saying that 25" is the usual kitchen countertop width to fit a 24" kitchen base cabinet.
Laminate Kitchen Countertops Installation?
form_title=Install Laminate Kitchen Countertops form_header=Have laminate kitchen countertops installed in your home. What are the dimensions of the countertop you are interested in?=_ Are you replacing an old kitchen countertop?= () Yes () No Will this be for residential or commerical use?=_
How To Make a Wise Decision In Choosing Your Granite Countertop For Your Kitchen?
When choosing granite for kitchen countertops, there are a few steps you can take to be certain that you are getting good quality at a reasonable price. 1. Check out prices at several of your local stores. Granite can be expensive, so it will be worth putting a little bit of time into finding a good price. You can have several shops send out an employee to measure your cabinets and give you an estimate of what the cost will be to have a granite countertop, or several, installed in your kitchen. 2. If you have a large warehouse in your area, you will get a better selection from which to choose than what a smaller store can provide. But if you live in an area where only a few smaller stores can be found, be certain to check out each one. 3. Before your granite countertop is actually installed, look it over carefully for any imperfections. When the countertop is in place is not the time to notice that something is wrong. You may also want the installer to go over with you just how the granite will be placed, so that you will already have an idea how it will look before installation has taken place. 4. Take into consideration the general color scheme of your kitchen when choosing the granite that you would like to have. Be certain to check color swatches in the area of the kitchen where the countertop will be installed, so that you will get a good idea of how the color will look. 5. Keep in mind that a smaller kitchen will appear larger if light colored granite is used. If your kitchen is a large size, then you would be able to go with either a lighter or a darker color in granite. 6. If you are completely remodeling your kitchen, you will want to choose your floor after you have chosen a granite countertop. It will be easier to match the color of your floor to your countertop than the other way around. A granite countertop in the kitchen can be a very attractive addition and also a wise investment.
How to Select the Best Kitchen Countertop for a Phased in Kitchen Upgrade?
When properly planned, kitchen remodeling can be fun. Pulling together a unique cabinet layout with the right countertop design can turn a boring kitchen into a delight of the heart. If you have the available space, adding a cooking island with an overhead pot rack and a matching kitchen countertop can be an excellent starting point.Begin with a plan. Consider the existing kitchen design and materials. If future hopes include an upgrading or character shifting of the current countertops, be sure to address the cooking island materials as a first stage of the change.The idea kitchen-remodeling project would involve simultaneous material purchases for the job as a whole. When working in stages, you must choose materials based upon long-term availability. Apply a little Internet research toward the product lines of various countertop manufacturers. Look for the styles and patterns that have lingered with the industry. Check with your local supply house for their experience and suggestions concerning various countertop products and their expected store shelf life.Tips For Choosing Countertop MaterialThough countertop materials may differ, the basic method of island installation is identical. Yet the ease of the installation, and the beauty of the island, depends upon the composition of the countertop materials in use. The following tips will help you choose the right countertop material for your cooking island:•Existing decor: Use material that will complement future planned kitchen preferences.•Color availability: Not all shades satisfy every mind.•Material costs: This not only includes the base material price, but must also cover any special cutting and shaping.•Durability: Wood can be an excellent and beautiful kitchen countertop surface, but water and heat create serious problems for wood constructs. Formica provides a durable surface at a reasonable price, and it is easy to work. Stone products, though extremely durable are pricey from the word go, and require special cutting and handling tools.•Installation expenses: Evaluate the installation costs plus any additional special handling charges.Visit a showroom. Before choosing any kitchen countertop product, view the product in person.
