Kitchen Countertops
Natural Stone Countertops
Though the great advancement in technology, it is still undeniable that no other manufacturer can surpass the craftsmanship of Mother Earth. Time, together with all the natural elements, has worked to give you some of the most luxurious-looking and durable selection of kitchen countertops. But even with that inherent strength and beauty, different types still offers varying sets of quality that makes them a perfect match with your needs and wants… or not. Some of these deciding qualities include color and texture, hardness, resistance to elements that can cause damage, and overall maintenance.
Natural stone kitchen countertops fall among your high end options. But whichever among them you pick, the decision will surely prove to be worth it with the good boost that it brings to your New York home’s value. Granite ranks to be the most popular with that luxurious touch it brings, superb stain resistance, durability, and wide range of colors that it comes in. Marble is another elegant choice and is especially chosen for baking applications due to its softer nature and poor resistance to stains. Other common natural stones include soapstone, slate, travertine, limestone, onyx and other semi-precious stones.
Engineered Stone or Quartz
Engineered stone or quartz is a man-made composite kitchen countertop material made from resin and rock. It serves as the most competent counterpart of granite that is about the cost of a mid-range granite slab and is said to offer more strength. It also has a non-porous surface that is repellant to viruses and bacteria, promoting better sanitation. On the downside, though quartz does not need resealing, any damage is irreparable and granite still offers that unique organic feel with its wilder colors.
Metal Countertops
Metal kitchen countertops have established their place in the heart of homes when contemporary kitchen designs became the mainstream. The modern and industrial look is combined with high durability, easy maintenance, and heat resistance; making this choice all the more appealing. Being a malleable material, your hired contractor can surely construct the countertop in accordance to your specific needs. However, metal options are expensive and you have to be careful when integrating such into the design as it easily makes the area appear clinical.
Butcher Block or Wood Countertops
For that rustic look and welcoming feel, nothing beats wood. Coming in wide selection of various timbers and finishes, you would surely get something to complement your taste perfectly. And to match your budget too as it comes in a price range that is as varied as the selection. One disadvantage is the high maintenance that wood kitchen countertops entail but just the same, it can be refinished time and again to keep it looking as if new.
Ceramic Tile Countertops
Kitchen countertops laid in ceramic tiles is relatively inexpensive and make up for a flexible choice when it comes to design which is limited only by how creative you and your contractor can get. The material comes in a very wide range of sizes, colors, patterns, and textures; and can either be manufactured or hand-crafted for that artistic touch. Not only are they stylish but also durable, and resistant to stain and heat. The grout however becomes porous which absorbs water and can become breeding ground for bacteria when the seal breaks in.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate kitchen countertops offer an overwhelming array of choices that come in limitless designs and color combinations. What started out as a cheap imitation of its high end counterparts, laminate has evolved into a material that offers better durability. With its advanced finishes that resist stains and spills, maintenance is a breeze. On the downside, the material can be damaged by extreme heat, is not ideal for cutting, and can bring about moisture problems when not installed properly.