When
considering countertops for your home remodel it would be all too easy to
choose a surface based on its appearance alone. For most people, that's simply
not an option. People should think about how they use the countertops in their
homes, and who is using them. The durability of the countertops in question,
the ease of its maintenance, the cost of the materials to be used, and the
lifespan you'd like your remodel to have in addition to the overall look you're
trying to achieve should be considered before a final decision is reached.
Luckily, there are several materials that can be used, each with their own set
of advantages and disadvantages. Here
are a few popular options.
Wood
Wood countertops are beautiful to look at. They
offer warmth and a feeling of richness to a kitchen, but can be damaged quite
easily. Most scratches can be sanded out with relative ease, but damage caused
by water can be more difficult to deal with. They should be oiled or sealed
frequently to avoid water seeping in.
Laminate
Laminate countertops offer the highest
variety of colours, patterns, and designs. With so many options, you're sure to
find one to fit your needs. It is widely available, and one of the more
economical options for your home. Unfortunately, these tops tend to have a much
lower life expectancy compared to some other materials due in part to their low
level of scratch resistance, and their tendency to scorch should something too
hot be placed directly on its surface.
Granite
The most popular material for countertops
throughout the home, granite offers beauty and unparalleled durability. While
it is substantially more costly than laminate, the true value of granite comes
from its durability and longevity. Available in a jaw dropping array of colours,
patterns, and textures, granite can be purchased in either slab or tile form,
offering versatility and more creative options. Since no two pieces of granite
are the same, you can be sure that your countertops will be unique to your home
alone.
Marble
Beautiful colours and patterns are available
in as many shades and options as granite. Marble is visually stunning and
interesting to look at, and is considered by some to add elegance and a
luxurious tone above what granite can offer. Marble is very durable and is more
than dense enough to handle any task in your home. It can last a lifetime when
cared for and maintained properly, but it is substantially softer than granite.
It can be etched by acidic foods or drinks. As such, any spills should be wiped
up immediately.
Engineered
Stone
Engineered stone countertops are available
in a wider variety of colours than most other natural stone countertops. They
are quite a bit more durable, and since they are completely non-porous they
never need to be sealed. Cleaning and maintenance is a breeze. They resist
stains quite well and scratches can be simply buffed out. They can, however, be
damaged by placing hot pots or pans directly on its surface. You won't save
much money by choosing this surface, as it is priced similarly to granite, but
it may be easier to have a countertop custom made for your space.
While
not all countertops are suitable for everyone or every situtation,
investigating your options thoroughly when planing your home remodel can only
be beneficial in the long run. After
all, the choice you make could very well last a lifetime.
Be sure to explore and
investigate all your options when planning your home remodel. This choice may
last a lifetime.