Selecting the right countertop material that fits well with your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences and budget is the first step to creating a functional kitchen. However, selecting the right kitchen countertop can be a tedious and tricky process. Given the vast range of materials, designs, etc. to choose from, it is easy to get confused and overwhelmed. We have put together a quick guide to help you compare the most common countertop materials.
1. Granite
For a long time, granite has been the countertop material of choice especially when the cost is not a major consideration. Granite defines elegance in a kitchen. Even modest kitchens can seem like luxury spaces when complemented with granite countertops.
2. Marble
Marble is another commonly used natural stone for kitchen countertops. Since no two sheets of marble are exactly the same, each marble countertop will be entirely unique. The downside of marble is that it can be slightly expensive and hence is used selectively in kitchen islands, or sections of the countertop, etc.
3. Tile
While tiles are obviously a great option for kitchen walls, they can also potentially work well for countertops. Tile countertops are great for homeowners looking for a retro look and something more affordable. The downside of tiles is that they are harder to maintain and may require re-grouting to stay clean.
4. Quartz
Practically maintenance-free, engineered quartz countertops are stain, acid, scratch, heat, and impact-resistant and, thanks to their non-porous surface, they don’t need to be sealed like natural stone countertops.
5. Soapstone
Soapstone is another natural stone, usually dark gray in color with a smooth, silky feel. It has seen a recent resurgence as an alternative to granite. Soapstone is most often found in historic homes but is also used in modern homes as both a countertop and sink material.
6. Laminates
Although laminates have been regarded as more ordinary countertop materials for a long time, they have seen a recent surge in popularity, due to the variety of colors, patterns, and styles they are available in.
7. Corian
The name Corian is the Dupont Corporation’s brand name for its flagship solid surface countertop material. Because Corian was the first of the solid-surface materials marketed for use as a countertop, the name often is used to refer to all solid surface materials, including brands made by other companies. One advantage to Corian and other solid-surface materials is that pieces can be glued together with a solvent so that the seams are entirely invisible. This gives the appearance of a huge, continuous slab of unbroken countertop.
Apart from countertops, cabinets are one of the most important functional and aesthetic components of kitchens. Kitchen cabinets usually account for a third of the kitchen remodeling costs. Here are some of the things to think about as you plan to remodel your kitchen cabinets.
You can also check out our recent blog post about remodeling ideas for an efficient kitchen. We have also put together a kitchen remodel checklist that summarizes some of the most important things to keep in mind to create your dream kitchen with minimal investment of time and money.
On a separate note, if you are looking for some financing options for your next home remodeling project here. We can help you compare pre-qualified rates in less than 2 minutes and offer helpful tips to match you to the right financing.
MW Construction is an established contractor with experience renovating homes in the South Jersey area. We are a licensed and insured contractor providing high-quality and reliable services. We have offices in Northfield and Somers Point. Contact us today at (609) 635-3837 or (609) 241-8231 for further details or estimates. We will also be happy to discuss with you some of our recent kitchen remodeling projects.