After choosing your kitchen cabinetry, the countertop is typically the next big item to select for your ideal kitchen design. So, just how do you select the best kitchen countertop? And how to you find a hardworking, long lasting option to fit your budget? Let’s explore the best kitchen countertops, how to decide on the one which fits your kitchen design, and stay within your budget.
Granite Countertops
Granite ranks high among the popular kitchen countertop features because of its incredible beauty and style. Not only is granite among the most unique and attractive countertop materials but it is also tough and long-lasting. Granite is resistant to chipping and cracking, and can also withstand a pot of boiling water placed atop it without damage. While granite can stain, the annual application of a sealer can reduce the probability of staining. Even so, granite is not indestructible and dropping a heavy item on top of it can certainly chip it. Other cons of granite include difficult in hiding seams when installed, and because it is natural stone, your selection may not look exactly like the sample you adored. The cost of granite averages $40 to $100 per square foot.
Quartz Countertops
Quartz, a combination of nature and mankind’s ingenuity, is among the most durable option for kitchen countertops. Tougher than natural stone, this blend of crushed quartz and resin delivers countertops in colors and styles which mimic natural stone. Quartz is nearly indestructible, impervious to knife cuts, chips, and cracks under normal kitchen circumstances. It doesn’t require annual sealing like granite, and is resistant to stains and bacteria. Quartz, does have some cons. Like granite seams are often noticeable, and quartz is not particularly heat resistant. The cost of quartz averages $40 to $100 per square foot.
Laminate Countertops
Laminate countertops today are durable options for those on a budget. Laminate is created with layered paper covered with long-lasting resin which offers limitless colors and patterns. It can mimic natural stone, wood, and other surfaces, and is stain resistant. Laminate doesn’t require sealing, but it is susceptible to cracks, scratches, knife cuts, and burning, and it isn’t easily repaired. Laminate costs, on average $10 to $40 per square foot.
Tile Countertops
Tile is a versatile and attractive option for many homeowners. It is uniquely appealing as it can provide looks that match classic to contemporary to eclectic styles. Tile is durable – resistant to stains, heat, and cracks. It is easy to clean and should it crack, a single tile can be replaced. Tile allows for one of a kind countertop creations and is available in unlimited colors and styles. Tile has a few drawbacks, for one, it creates an uneven surface which means glasses, plates, pots, and more may seem wobbly. In addition, tile requires annual sealing and grout lines are known to attract dust and grime and aren’t so easily cleaned. Tile, on average, costs $5 to $35 per square foot.
Solid-Surface Countertops
Solid-surface countertops are crafted from acrylic, polyester resins, and marble dust. While Corian® is the brand most commonly known, there are a number of other manufacturers of solid-surface countertops. It is not porous, and is available in a plethora of colors and patterns. It can scratch, but is easily repaired, and it can be molded into a backsplash and sink bowl. The cons of solid-surface countertops include price, as well as the fact that it does scratch and burn easily. For those who prefer a green option, solid surfacing is not the right choice as it is made from non-renewable resources and is hard to recycle. Solid-surface countertops average prices range from $35 to $100 per square foot.