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A Variety of Countertop Materials: Wood, Marble, Granite

Tuesday, July 8th, 2008 Subscribe To Our Feed

Introduction

There are wide variety of countertop materials available to make your countertop. At times, the selection can be overwhelming and present a challenge to know exactly what countertop materials to use. What it really comes down to is simply examining your choices, understanding the pros and cons of countertop materials, and how they will fit in your home. Let’s take a look at factors of maintenance, durability, and price to help you make a better decision.

Laminates and Wood

Laminate countertop materials are a composite of plastics/synthetics. Laminate is among the cheapest of materials available; it can be cut/molded to just about any shape, comes in a wide range of textures and colors and is relatively durable. Though it is a resilient countertop system (though nothing like a granite countertop system), it can be scratched, gauged, burned and even melted. Once serious damage is done, replacement is really the only reasonable course of action.

Hardwoods as a countertop materials give a kitchen a warm, rich, classy air. Maple and oak are available and definitely set the kitchen apart from more contemporary countertop materials. Other woods are available but can be very pricy, especially in wide surface areas. Wood countertops are easy to clean and take on a polished finish when complete. They can still be damaged and because of the nature of the medium can’t be repaired effectively.

Ceramic Tile

Perhaps the most popular and flexible of the countertop surfaces, ceramic tile seems purpose made as a countertop material. It is durable and easy to maintain, and easy to install. Its affordable and comes in many different shapes, sizes, colors, and textures. One principle advantage that some other countertop materials lack is that it can easily take the heat of a hot pan without affecting the surface of the ceramic tile.

Though a beautiful medium to work in, ceramic tiles as a countertop material does have its down side. Many would like to have custom designs on their ceramic tile, but unless you go direct to the manufacture (such as in Mexico), it can be quite an expensive outlay. Keep in mind too that laying tile can sometimes create an uneven surface on the countertop. Also, since grout is necessary to place the tiles, frequent cleaning is necessary so the grout lines do not darken or blacken and mar the look of the ceramic tiles.

Granite, Soapstone, and Marble

By far one of the most sought after countertop materials is granite. If you are looking for a granite countertop system and have the money to spend, it is among the most beautiful countertop materials available. Granit seems to make every kitchen look beautiful and substantial. Granite is heat resistant, has thousands of colors available, and is durable beyond compare. Though, it is easy to maintain and usually trouble free, some stone types can actually stain.

Another option is man-made or engineered stone. It is similar to granite, comes in even a larger variety of colors than granite but is as easy to clean and maintain. Engineered stone is made from quartz crystals and possess most of the qualities of granite. This includes the expense as well.

Still another stone countertop material option is soapstone. This countertop material is smooth and attractive, usually in a rich deep color. The maintenance on this material is higher as it requires periodic treatment with mineral oil.

Arguably, the richest looking countertop material is marble. When the idea of elegance in stone is conjured, marble is usually what comes to mind. It is EXPENSIVE. It is very resistant to water or heat. Frequently it is used as an accent, such as on an island or a mobile countertop. Unless you enjoy labor in the kitchen, marble may test your patience as it requires attention and upkeep.

Steel and Concrete

Stainless steel countertops were once the prerogative of professional kitchens. Today, given adequate funds and a penchant for the exotic or different, stainless steel countertop materials may be just want you are looking for. Because they are custom made for a given space and design, they are without seems and present one continuous uniform design. Obviously, since it is steel, it is resistant to heat, water, and even children. If you are looking for something rare and different, stainless steel may fill your bill.

Lastly, consider concrete to replace kitchen countertop or as your new kitchen countertop. Yes, concrete. Concrete is among the more expensive options. It is usually constructed on site and may require a specialist team (though there is an outfit called “Something Better Company” that offers DIY instruction-see the button to right for direct link). As you might imagine, concrete is tough, heat and water resistant, and can look natural, exotic, or industrial. Because it is poured to spec, it can be or fit whatever shape you desire.

In Summary

As you can see, countertop materials are wide and varied. You can have practically anything for a price. You can also economize, design and construct a beautiful countertop surface without a second mortgage.

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